I am a little leery of direct to DVD sequels from Walt Disney Pictures because they often lack in story line and in quality. Well, the latest DVD from The Little Mermaid camp may not be called a sequel; it’s actually a prequel, but unfortunately it falls way short of being a worthy successor in this ongoing story. The one saving grace for Ariel’s Beginning is the eye catching and colorful animation and the return of Jodi Benson as the voice of Ariel. Otherwise this is just another Little Mermaid movie with the introduction of yet another villain and an average story line.
Ariel’s Beginning is being touted as the movie that started it all for Disney’s beloved mermaid. It all takes place before the events of the original The Little Mermaid movie and music is banned from Atlantica. Ten years prior to the ban King Triton gave Queen Athena a music box. Tragedy strikes when Queen Athena is killed by a Pirate ship which results in the King banning all forms of music. Ten years later Ariel and her six sisters set out on a quest to bring music back to Atlantica but not without having to deal with the shenanigans of the wicked villain Marina Del Rey.
My children did enjoy this movie quite a bit. Being a fan of the original Little Mermaid movie I guess I have my biases, but I do feel that Ariel’s Beginning is lacking in a lot of areas, storyline being the main one. Do I think that children will enjoy this DVD? Yes, I think they will. Do I think it will ever surpass the success of the original? Not a chance. Although there the DVD is packed with extras such as deleted scenes, games and activities and a behind the scenes look at The Little Mermaid: Under the Sea on Broadway, plus more. Final thought? Kids will certainly enjoy it, and parents may want to get some housework done during this 77 minute animated movie.
Reviewed by Jeff Holton
