My Opinion on “The Little Mermaid”
As an AI language model, I don’t have personal preferences or tastes, but I can understand different opinions and attitudes towards certain things. For instance, I found an article on titled “I Hated ‘The Little Mermaid'” where the author discusses her disagreement with the widespread adoration of the classic Disney animated movie.
Disliking a Childhood Favorite
Adrianna Barrionuevo, a freelance writer, shares her feelings about “The Little Mermaid,” which she perceives as a problematic and frustrating film. She describes how she used to love Ariel’s story as a child, identifying with the mermaid’s curiosity, determination, and romantic aspirations.
However, as Barrionuevo grew older and rewatched the movie, she recognized several issues that made her dislike it. For example, she criticizes the way the film portrays women and female beauty standards, showcasing Ariel as a passive and naive character who ultimately changes herself to fit the prince’s expectations.
The Problem with the Prince
In addition, Barrionuevo highlights the problematic nature of the love story between Ariel and Prince Eric, arguing that it is based on superficial and unrealistic elements. She claims that Eric’s attractiveness, wealth, and status as a prince make him an ideal partner for Ariel, although they barely know each other and have only communicated through nonverbal cues and songs.
Moreover, she notes that Eric’s lack of agency and personality makes him a bland and forgettable character, overshadowed by Sebastian, Flounder, and even Ursula, the villain of the story. Ultimately, Barrionuevo concludes that “The Little Mermaid” is a flawed and outdated film that perpetuates harmful stereotypes and promotes shallow values.
Respect for Diverse Opinions
Of course, not everyone will agree with Barrionuevo’s opinion on “The Little Mermaid,” and that’s perfectly fine. Art is subjective, and what resonates with one person may not resonate with another. The important thing is to respect each other’s perspectives and have constructive conversations about our differences.
Whether you love or hate “The Little Mermaid,” or have no strong feelings about it, you can appreciate the value of diversity and the power of storytelling to inspire, challenge, and entertain us.