Dickens & Rumi
Cover of The Little Mermaid

film

The Little Mermaid

1989

This colorful adventure tells the story of an impetuous mermaid princess named Ariel who falls in love with the very human Prince Eric and puts everything on the line for the chance to be with him. Memorable songs and characters -- including the villainous sea witch Ursula.

Ages 6+Source checked

Why this age? Generally family-friendly, but younger children may find Ursula, Ariel’s transformation, ship danger, threats, and separation from her father frightening or intense. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age6+

Strongest cautions

  • Romance4/5
  • Frightening scenes3/5
  • Death of a character2/5

Strongest positives

  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Courage & resilience3/5
  • Good role models3/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising1/5
Why this rating?

The film is associated with extensive merchandise, but the movie itself does not strongly feature brands or direct buying messages.

Death of a character2/5
Why this rating?

The villain is impaled and dies, which may be intense for very young viewers.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Insults, arguments, and mild name-calling occur, but there is no strong profanity.

Romance4/5
Why this rating?

Ariel’s love for Prince Eric is central to the plot and motivates her major choices; the story includes romantic courtship and a kiss.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

Ursula can be frightening, and magical threats, shipwreck danger, transformation, and the final confrontation may unsettle young viewers.

Sexual content & nudity1/5
Why this rating?

No sexual activity; there is mild romantic suggestion and some playful body-focused humor typical of animation.

Violence2/5
Why this rating?

Fantasy action includes storms, ship danger, magical attacks, and a climactic battle; violence is brief, stylized, and not graphically portrayed.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience3/5
Why this rating?

Ariel and her allies repeatedly face danger and oppose Ursula, showing persistence and bravery despite serious risks.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

Its imaginative undersea world, musical storytelling, magical transformation, and inventive characters strongly stimulate fantasy and creative play.

Diverse representation1/5
Why this rating?

Limited human diversity in the primary cast, though fantasy species are represented.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

It offers incidental ideas about marine life, music, family relationships, and fairy-tale storytelling rather than formal instruction.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Friendship, loyalty, care, and forgiveness are important, although characters also deceive, argue, and manipulate one another.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

It emphasizes pursuing dreams, love, courage, and family reconciliation, while also showing risks in impulsive bargains and deception.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Ariel is brave, curious, and determined, though she also acts impulsively and makes a dangerous bargain; supportive characters offer guidance.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What was the most imaginative idea in the story, and what would you add to it?
  2. How did relationships or romance affect the characters’ choices?
  3. Which choice in The Little Mermaid would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in The Little Mermaid, and what caused that change?
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These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

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