Plot Summary: The story follows Ariel (voiced by Jodi Benson), a young and adventurous mermaid princess who dreams of living life on land. She falls in love with Prince Eric (voiced by Christopher Daniel Barnes) after rescuing him from a shipwreck. To be with him, Ariel makes a dangerous deal with the sea witch Ursula (voiced by Pat Carroll) to exchange her voice for human legs. As Ariel navigates the challenges of life on land, she must confront Ursula’s sinister plot and find a way to win Eric’s love and restore her place in the underwater kingdom.

Strengths:

1. Memorable Music: The film features a celebrated soundtrack by Alan Menken (music) and Howard Ashman (lyrics), including iconic songs such as “Part of Your World,” “Under the Sea,” and “Kiss the Girl.” The music plays a significant role in the film’s charm and appeal, contributing to its status as a beloved classic.
2. Animation Quality: “The Little Mermaid” is known for its vibrant animation and detailed underwater scenes. The film’s use of color and fluid animation techniques helped revitalize interest in traditional animation and set new standards for the industry.
3. Engaging Characters: Ariel, as a curious and independent protagonist, resonates with audiences, especially with her yearning for exploration and new experiences. Supporting characters, like the comedic Sebastian (voiced by Samuel E. Wright) and the endearing Flounder (voiced by Jason Marin), add charm and humor to the story.
4. Storytelling and Themes: The film’s themes of self-discovery, love, and the desire to break free from constraints are universally appealing. Ariel’s journey from the underwater world to the human realm captures the spirit of adventure and personal growth.

Weaknesses:

1. Simplistic Plot: Some critics argue that the plot is relatively straightforward and might lack the complexity found in other animated films. The classic fairy tale structure, while effective, follows familiar tropes that some viewers might find predictable.
2. Character Development: While Ariel is a strong and relatable character, some of the supporting characters, including Prince Eric, are less developed. The film focuses primarily on Ariel’s story, which can lead to less depth in other characters.
3. Representation Issues: The portrayal of Ursula, while iconic, has been critiqued for reinforcing certain negative stereotypes. Additionally, the film’s depiction of its female protagonist and her aspirations can be seen as reinforcing traditional gender roles.

Overall:

“The Little Mermaid” is a landmark film in Disney’s history, celebrated for its enchanting music, beautiful animation, and engaging storytelling. It played a crucial role in reviving interest in animated feature films and set the stage for Disney’s subsequent successes. While it has some narrative and character development limitations, its impact on popular culture and its role in the Disney Renaissance make it a cherished classic that continues to captivate audiences of all ages.