Review: The Little Mermaid (1989)

When you think of Disney's resurgence in the late '80s and early '90s, The Little Mermaid is often the first film that comes to mind. Released in 1989, this animated feature is credited with revitalizing Disney's animation studio, paving the way for a new era of animated classics. It's a film that combines enchanting storytelling with unforgettable music, making it a staple of many childhoods and a prized possession for collectors.

Plot Summary

The Little Mermaid is based on the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale of the same name. The story follows Ariel, a young mermaid princess with an insatiable curiosity about the world above the sea. Despite her father's warnings, Ariel dreams of living on land and experiencing life as a human. Her fascination leads her to make a deal with Ursula, the sea witch, trading her voice for legs in the hope of winning the heart of Prince Eric. As you might expect from a Disney film, it's a charming tale of adventure, love, and self-discovery, filled with colorful characters and a few well-placed twists and turns.

Performances

The voice cast of The Little Mermaid delivers performances that are both engaging and memorable. Jodi Benson's portrayal of Ariel is iconic, bringing a sense of wonder and determination to the character that has resonated with audiences for decades. Her singing voice is equally impressive, particularly in the film's signature song, "Part of Your World," which has become one of Disney's most beloved ballads.

Pat Carroll's performance as Ursula is another highlight. She brings a perfect blend of menace and charisma, creating a villain that is both entertaining and genuinely intimidating. Her rendition of "Poor Unfortunate Souls" is a standout moment in the film, showcasing her vocal prowess and adding depth to the character.

Samuel E. Wright as Sebastian, the Caribbean crab and reluctant advisor to Ariel, provides much of the film's comic relief. His performance is filled with warmth and humor, especially in the lively musical number "Under the Sea," which remains one of the most catchy and joyful songs in Disney's catalog.

Direction and Craft

Directed by Ron Clements and John Musker, The Little Mermaid is a visual and auditory delight. The animation is vibrant and fluid, capturing the magical underwater world with great attention to detail. The character designs are expressive and colorful, helping to bring the story to life in a way that feels fresh even after all these years.

The music, composed by Alan Menken with lyrics by Howard Ashman, is integral to the film's success. The songs are catchy and emotionally resonant, with each one contributing to the story and character development. Menken's score complements the film's visuals perfectly, enhancing the emotional impact of key scenes.

The film's pacing is brisk, keeping the audience engaged from start to finish without feeling rushed. Clements and Musker manage to balance humor, drama, and romance, creating a movie that appeals to both children and adults alike.

Collector's Verdict

For collectors, The Little Mermaid is a significant piece of Disney history and a worthy addition to any collection. The best format to own this film would be the LaserDisc edition. Known for its superior audio and video quality at the time, the LaserDisc offers a nostalgic viewing experience that captures the film's original charm.

In terms of rarity, the LaserDisc version is considered uncommon but not impossible to find. It can occasionally be spotted at specialty shops, online auctions, or estate sales. For those who appreciate the tactile nature of physical media and the quality that LaserDisc offers, it's a format worth seeking out.

The Little Mermaid is a must-have for Disney collectors, especially in its LaserDisc format. Its vibrant animation and iconic music make it a standout piece for any collection, a reminder of Disney's ability to create magic on screen.

In conclusion, whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer to the world of Disney collecting, The Little Mermaid is a film that deserves a place on your shelf. Its classic appeal and historical significance within the Disney canon make it more than just a movie; it's a piece of animation history.