The Little Mermaid (1989)

What makes The Little Mermaid special is how it rekindles the pure, storybook electricity of classic Disney—then sends it soaring on a wave of wit, romance, and irresistible music. The animation is lush and imaginative, turning the ocean into a living stage where every glance and gesture feels hand-crafted with love, while Ariel’s yearning is drawn with a sincerity that still lands decades later. It’s buoyant and funny without losing its emotional pull, anchored by a gallery of unforgettable personalities—especially Ursula, a deliciously theatrical villain who practically steals the film with every line. If you’re allergic to big Broadway-style musical numbers or fairy-tale earnestness, it may not be your tide, but if you want a charming, triumphant family fantasy that sings its way into your memory, this is the one.

Disney’s The Little Mermaid (1989) is aiming for a bright, romantic fairy-tale musical—big emotions, catchy songs, and a clear-cut villain—more than a nuanced modern coming-of-age story. If you’re sensitive to older “princess” narratives, the film’s traditional gender roles and the way Ariel’s choices revolve around a boy can feel dated, and her young age may make the romance sit awkwardly. It also takes plenty of liberties with the original tale, so purists may find it a softened, more commercial take rather than a faithful adaptation. That said, the animation is lively, the music is genuinely memorable, and Ursula remains one of Disney’s best villains—just don’t go in expecting a progressive or subtle story.