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The Little Mermaid

Name: The Little Mermaid
Director: Masakazu Higuchi, Chinami Namba
Released: 1992
Duration: 50 min

Representation Score

1.0/10

Minimal

1992

Director

Masakazu Higuchi, Chinami Namba

Runtime

50 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The film follows a classic quest structure centered on a protagonist’s desire for romantic union. It closely adheres to traditional folklore clichés, emphasizing a conventional arc rather than social subversion. While the female protagonist shows initiative, her goals align with traditional gendered motivations. The narrative lacks diverse identities, focusing instead on a singular royal lineage and a clear moral dichotomy.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Little Mermaid have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The story focuses on a heterosexual romance between Princess Lena and Prince Stefan. There are no characters with non-traditional gender identities or same-sex relationships.

How does The Little Mermaid portray gender?

Fair

Princess Lena demonstrates a strong sense of adventure and actively pursues her goals. However, her motivations are tied to traditional romantic ideals such as marriage.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Little Mermaid?

Minimal

The setting revolves around a single royal lineage without any indication of racial diversity. There is no evidence of diverse casting or challenging Anglo-centric norms.

How does The Little Mermaid represent religion and culture?

Limited

The film follows a traditional Western moral framework typical of fairy tales, featuring a clear distinction between good and evil characters.

Does The Little Mermaid include disability representation?

Minimal

The narrative does not include any characters with visible or invisible disabilities. There is no representation of neurodivergence or chronic illnesses.

Present on Screen

The female protagonist, Princess Lena, exhibits an adventurous spirit and active involvement in her quest.
The inclusion of a complex female dynamic through the character of the female antagonist, Cassandra.

Limited or Absent

The narrative heavily relies on traditional romantic goals and marriage-based motivations.
The film lacks racial diversity, diverse casting, or subversion of established social hierarchies.
There is no representation of disabilities, neurodivergence, or diverse physical identities.

Official Synopsis

This charming, lively tale based on Hans Christian Anderson's beloved children's story comes to splendid life in an enchanting animated film. The beautiful and adventurous mermaid, Princess Lena, lives with her family in a watery castle and has everything she could ever need, but she longs for only one thing; to explore the world of humans. Determined to marry Prince Stefan, whom she sees when a whirlpool takes her to the surface, Princess Lena must turn to the evil sea witch Cassandra and pay a heavy price for her promise of help.

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