The Little Mermaid: Ariel's Beginning (August 26, 2008)

This is the second of two sequels to The Little Mermaid. It is a prequel providing Ariel’s backstory, before she met Prince Eric (and before she had Melody). The basic plot is after Ariel’s mother’s death, her father, King Triton outlaws all music and keeps his daughters on a strict schedule (essentially under lock and key). Ariel chaffs under this control, however, and one day she discovers an underground music club where she rediscovers the joys of music. She promptly brings her sisters and they all have a blast until their father finds out. I appreciate the exploration of Atlantica, Ariel’s hometown as we did not get to see as much of it in either the original or the first sequel, The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea. Also seeing Ariel’s sisters interact was… informative. I would have preferred seeing Ariel as a child, however. This being set when Ariel (and her father) look the same as in the original film make it seem like this takes place very soon before it. Which means Flounder is a new friend instead of the childhood bestie he appeared to be, and the no music decree only recently repealed. If that is the case it does not make complete sense why Ariel would be so carefree when singing in the first film (her innate talent can be trace to her mother, however). This plot just seems conjured up for the sake of making another film void of any true need or creative musings. And the antagonist mermaid who wants Sebastian’s job as King Triton’s right-hand man seems contrived for the sake of having a conflict. The only conflict that was need Ariel straining against her father’s authority (much like she does in the original film). And it is super weird that Flounder and Sebastian attend an underground club… it seems really out of character for both of them. A bright spot is the animation and the new songs. The former is super fluid and lively and the latter are catchy and fun. Overall, this film is confusing and contradictory, and its few bright spots do not make up for its lackluster plot and superfluous nature. The Little Mermaid II is a better sequel (and, if you have read my review of that you know I do not say this willingly- I heavily disliked that movie).

Final Rating: 2.5/10