Disney’s beloved classic The Little Mermaid has undergone a remake, but with a modern twist. The film, which premiered on Disney+ on September 3, 2021, has changed a number of lyrics, reportedly to satisfy modern “sensitivity” standards. The changes have sparked debate among fans of the iconic animated movie, with some accusing Disney of bowing to political correctness. In this article, we explore the changes made to The Little Mermaid’s lyrics and what they mean for the movie’s legacy.
In recent years, there has been a trend of rewriting classic children’s stories and movies to be less offensive. However, it begs the question: who asked for this? While no piece of media is perfect, it’s unclear where the desire to edit out minor grievances comes from.
Recently, The Little Mermaid has been the victim of this treatment. Legendary composer Alan Menken revealed that songs such as “Poor Unfortunate Souls” and “Kiss the Girl” have undergone revisions. The lyrics have been changed to be more considerate of young girl boss culture and to avoid any potential issues of consent.
However, the need for these revisions is questionable. In “Kiss the Girl,” the song isn’t promoting non-consensual behavior but rather encourages Prince Eric to make a romantic gesture towards Ariel. The criticism seems manufactured and exists only in the worst interpretation of the lyrics.
The original Little Mermaid has also been criticized for the story’s theme of a woman giving up her entire life for a man she’s never talked to. With the upcoming live-action remake, star Halle Bailey has mentioned that the new version will have a different perspective, emphasizing Ariel’s purpose and freedom.
Despite potential changes made to the source material, it ultimately matters little as the animated classic still exists in all its imperfect, “problematic” glory. Disney’s bottom line won’t be affected by this manufacturing of outrage, but it leaves one to wonder if these revisions are truly necessary.
In conclusion, The Little Mermaid remake’s decision to alter the lyrics of the classic song “Under the Sea” to suit modern “sensitivity” has sparked debate among fans and critics alike. While some argue that the changes are necessary to promote inclusivity and respect for different cultures, others criticize the move as unnecessary and potentially damaging to the integrity of the original content. As we continue to grapple with issues of representation and inclusion in popular media, it is important to consider the impact of these decisions on both the art itself and the audiences who consume it. Ultimately, only time will tell whether this adaptation’s changes will stand the test of time or be seen as a fleeting trend in the constantly evolving landscape of entertainment.
