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The Little Mermaid

The Little Mermaid

Representation Score

3.1/10

Limited

2018

PG

Director

Chris Bouchard, Blake Harris

Runtime

98 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

The 2018 adaptation adheres to conservative storytelling conventions, centered around a male protagonist rescuing a passive female figure. This reinforces traditional gender roles and straight-centered structures without subversion. The cast lacks significant ethnic diversity, with minimal multi-layered depth or meaningful representation. Cultural values align with traditional family units and Western medical ideals, avoiding critical engagement with systemic issues. The portrayal of disability is functional, reducing the character to a plot device rather than an empowered individual. While not overtly harmful, the film's lack of intentional inclusion results in a low overall diversity score.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Little Mermaid have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

There is no representation of LGBTQ+ individuals in the film, which focuses solely on a traditional heterosexual relationship. The absence of diverse gender identities suggests limited inclusivity.

How does The Little Mermaid portray gender?

Limited

The male lead drives the story, while the female character is passive, waiting to be rescued. This reinforces traditional gender roles where men are the heroes and women are supportive figures.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Little Mermaid?

Fair

The cast is primarily white, with very little ethnic diversity. There is no multi-layered casting or subversion of racial norms, leading to a lower score for inclusiveness.

How does The Little Mermaid represent religion and culture?

Limited

The film upholds traditional Western family values and medical ideals. It lacks a critical examination of systemic issues, sticking to a straightforward good-versus-evil narrative.

Does The Little Mermaid include disability representation?

Limited

The niece's condition is used merely as a plot device to motivate the male hero's journey. This portrayal reduces disability to a problem to be solved, lacking nuanced exploration or empowerment.

Present on Screen

  • Adds minor ethnic diversity with Loreto Peralta.
  • Provides an experienced female presence with Shirley MacLaine.
  • Focuses on family bonds, offering relatable emotional stakes.

Limited or Absent

  • The mermaid has little control over what happens to them, serving only as a passive object of rescue.
  • Disability is portrayed as a problem to be solved, not integrated.
  • No LGBTQ+ representation or non-traditional relationship dynamics.
  • Lacks multi-layered casting or meaningful racial diversity in plot.
  • Reinforces traditional gender hierarchies without critical subversion.

Official Synopsis

A young reporter and his niece discover a beautiful and enchanting creature they believe to be the real little mermaid.

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