The Little Mermaid

Definition

The Little Mermaid is a classic animated film produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios, released in 1989. It marks a significant revival of Disney's animated features and showcases groundbreaking animation techniques and storytelling that resonate with audiences. This film is celebrated for its memorable music, vibrant characters, and innovative use of underwater animation that set new standards in the industry.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Little Mermaid was the first animated feature film to be produced after Walt Disney's death, marking a new era for the studio.
2. The film won two Academy Awards for Best Original Song and Best Original Score, both of which were composed by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman.
3. The character designs and animation in The Little Mermaid were inspired by real-life underwater creatures and environments, resulting in stunning visuals.
4. The release of The Little Mermaid is often credited with initiating the Disney Renaissance, leading to a resurgence in popularity for animated films during the 1990s.
5. The iconic song 'Part of Your World' has become synonymous with the film and is often regarded as one of Disney's most beloved musical numbers.

Review Questions

• How did The Little Mermaid influence the animation techniques used in subsequent Disney films?
  • The Little Mermaid introduced innovative animation techniques that enhanced the visual storytelling of Disney films. Its use of computer-generated imagery (CGI) for underwater scenes created a sense of depth and realism that had not been seen before. This blend of traditional hand-drawn animation with CGI set a precedent for later films like Beauty and the Beast and Aladdin, showcasing how technology could be used to elevate storytelling.
• Discuss the role of music in The Little Mermaid and its impact on the film's overall success.
  • Music plays a pivotal role in The Little Mermaid, contributing significantly to its narrative and emotional impact. The collaboration between composer Alan Menken and lyricist Howard Ashman resulted in memorable songs that not only advanced the story but also helped define the characters. Tracks like 'Under the Sea' and 'Part of Your World' became instant classics, drawing audiences into Ariel's world and making the film's themes more relatable.
• Evaluate the cultural significance of The Little Mermaid in the context of women's representation in animated films.
  • The Little Mermaid sparked discussions around women's representation in animation due to Ariel's character arc. While she embodies traditional princess traits, her desire for independence and self-discovery resonated with many viewers. The film raises questions about female agency as Ariel makes choices that lead to personal transformation, reflecting broader societal shifts regarding women's roles. This nuanced portrayal encouraged subsequent animated films to explore more complex female characters, influencing trends in storytelling for years to come.

Related terms

Ariel: The main character of The Little Mermaid, Ariel is a young mermaid princess who dreams of living on land and falls in love with a human prince.

Howard Ashman: A renowned lyricist who worked on the music for The Little Mermaid, Ashman's songs played a crucial role in the film's success and emotional depth.

Disney Renaissance: A period from the late 1980s to the late 1990s during which Disney produced a series of critically acclaimed animated films, starting with The Little Mermaid.