INTRO: Ariel, the enchanting mermaid from Disney’s beloved animated classic, has captured the hearts of audiences for decades. Her story not only showcases a rich tapestry of adventure and self-discovery but also highlights significant milestones in animation and storytelling. Here are ten intriguing facts about Ariel that shed light on her enduring legacy.
Ariel Was Inspired by a Hans Christian Andersen Fairy Tale
Ariel’s character draws its roots from Hans Christian Andersen’s 1837 fairy tale "The Little Mermaid." Andersen’s tale is much darker than Disney’s adaptation, dealing with themes of sacrifice, unrequited love, and the pursuit of an immortal soul. In the original story, the mermaid undergoes tremendous suffering for the sake of love, eventually meeting a tragic fate. Disney’s version, however, infuses humor, romance, and a happier resolution, reinterpreting Ariel’s desire to explore the human world while retaining some of the poignant elements of Andersen’s narrative.
The Little Mermaid’s Voiced by Broadway Star Jodi Benson
Ariel’s enchanting voice is brought to life by the incredibly talented Jodi Benson, a Broadway star known for her powerful vocals and emotive performances. Benson’s work on "The Little Mermaid" has become iconic, as she not only voiced Ariel but also contributed to the character’s charm and personality through her singing. Songs like "Part of Your World" and "Under the Sea" have become synonymous with Benson’s voice, showcasing her ability to convey Ariel’s dreams and aspirations through music, which has left an indelible mark on the Disney legacy.
Ariel Has a Unique Collection of 20 Human Artifacts
In her underwater grotto, Ariel showcases a collection of 20 human artifacts, reflecting her fascination with the human world. These objects range from a fork (which she refers to as a "dinglehopper") to a snarfblatt, each representing her curiosity and desire to understand the lives of humans. This quirky collection not only serves as a narrative device to illustrate her longing for a different life but also adds comedic elements to the film as her friends, like Flounder and Sebastian, react to her interpretations of these items.
Disney’s Ariel Made Her Debut in 1989’s Animated Film
Ariel first appeared on the big screen in Disney’s animated film "The Little Mermaid," released in 1989. This film marked a significant turning point for the studio, revitalizing interest in animated features after a period of decline. Ariel’s character played a crucial role in the Disney Renaissance, a period characterized by a series of critically acclaimed and commercially successful animated films. The movie’s success helped to establish a new era of storytelling in animation, where strong female leads like Ariel became more prominent.
Ariel’s Signature Color is a Distinctive Shade of Red
Ariel’s striking red hair is one of her most recognizable features, and it was a deliberate design choice by Disney animators. The vibrant color was chosen to make her stand out against the ocean backdrop and to convey her fiery and adventurous spirit. This iconic shade of red has since become synonymous with her character, further enhancing her appeal and making her easily recognizable among Disney princesses.
The Little Mermaid Was Disney’s First Animated Female Hero
Ariel holds the distinction of being Disney’s first animated female hero, paving the way for a new breed of strong, independent female characters in animation. Her journey of self-discovery, desire for autonomy, and rejection of societal expectations resonated with audiences, particularly young girls. Ariel’s character symbolizes empowerment and the pursuit of dreams, setting a precedent for future Disney heroines who also seek to carve their own paths.
Ariel’s Father, King Triton, Wields a Powerful Trident
King Triton, Ariel’s father and the ruler of the underwater kingdom of Atlantica, is a formidable character known for wielding a powerful trident. This iconic weapon not only symbolizes his authority but also possesses magical abilities, allowing Triton to control the ocean and protect his kingdom. His character serves as a foil to Ariel, representing the traditional views of authority and responsibility, which Ariel challenges as she seeks her own identity outside the constraints of her royal lineage.
The Film Features Iconic Songs by Composers Menken & Ashman
The musical score of "The Little Mermaid" features unforgettable songs composed by Alan Menken, with lyrics by Howard Ashman. Songs such as "Under the Sea" and "Kiss the Girl" contribute significantly to the film’s charm and emotional depth, enhancing the storytelling experience. The collaboration between Menken and Ashman not only won multiple Academy Awards but also redefined the role of music in animated films, emphasizing its importance in character development and narrative progression.
Ariel’s Transformation Scene Required Groundbreaking Animation
Ariel’s transformation from mermaid to human is one of the film’s most memorable moments, showcasing Disney’s innovative animation techniques of the time. The scene required meticulous attention to detail, combining traditional hand-drawn animation with cutting-edge technology to create a seamless transition. This artistic achievement exemplified the studio’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of animation and set a new standard for visual storytelling in animated films.
The Little Mermaid Inspired Numerous Merchandising Successes
The popularity of "The Little Mermaid" led to a wave of merchandising successes, including toys, clothing, and various memorabilia featuring Ariel. This extensive merchandise not only capitalized on the film’s success but also helped to establish a blueprint for future Disney franchises. The success of Ariel as a marketable character led to her becoming a central figure in Disney theme parks, merchandise, and promotional campaigns, further solidifying her status as a cultural icon.
OUTRO: Ariel continues to enchant audiences around the world, embodying themes of exploration, love, and self-acceptance. Her story, rooted in a rich literary tradition and brought to life through groundbreaking animation and music, remains a testament to the power of storytelling. As a pioneering character in Disney’s history, Ariel not only paved the way for future heroines but also left an indelible mark on popular culture, ensuring her place as one of Disney’s most beloved characters.