Celebrating Three Decades Under the Sea: The Little Mermaid Signature Edition Dives In!
It’s a momentous occasion for Disney fans worldwide! The beloved animated classic, “The Little Mermaid,” has officially resurfaced from the vault with its dazzling Signature Edition, now available for purchase. This special release marks a truly remarkable milestone: the 30th anniversary of a film that captivated hearts and redefined a generation of Disney animation. For many, this anniversary brings a nostalgic wave, reminding us of simpler times and the first magical encounter with Ariel and her underwater world.
Thirty years ago, “The Little Mermaid” swam into theaters, enchanting audiences with its vibrant animation, unforgettable songs, and a timeless story of a young mermaid yearning for a different life. It wasn’t just a movie; it was a cultural phenomenon that kicked off the “Disney Renaissance,” revitalizing the studio’s animation department and paving the way for future classics. This Signature Edition is a grand tribute to its enduring legacy, packed with enhanced features and never-before-seen content, inviting both long-time fans and new generations to rediscover its magic.
To celebrate this fantastic milestone, we’re diving deep into the enchanting world of Ariel, Sebastian, and Ursula, sharing some of the most iconic and memorable “The Little Mermaid” quotes. Whether you’re looking for the perfect Instagram caption, a heartfelt message for a card, or just want to relive the charm of these characters, these quotes are sure to bring a smile to your face and a song to your heart.
Iconic Lines: The Best Little Mermaid Quotes for Every Occasion
From Ariel’s adventurous spirit to Sebastian’s cautious wisdom and Ursula’s deliciously devious remarks, “The Little Mermaid” is brimming with quotable lines. These memorable snippets of dialogue not only advance the story but also perfectly capture the essence of each character, making them timeless and instantly recognizable.
Let’s start with our adventurous protagonist, Ariel, whose curiosity often leads her into uncharted waters:
“You’re not getting cold fins now, are you?” ~ Ariel
Ariel’s adventurous spirit is truly infectious. Her desire to explore beyond her underwater kingdom is a central theme, beautifully expressed through her yearning to be part of the human world. This curiosity often puts her at odds with her father, King Triton, and the ever-watchful Sebastian, but it’s also what makes her so relatable and inspiring.
Then there’s the infamous sea witch, Ursula, whose cunning and theatricality make her one of Disney’s most iconic villains. Her lines are often laced with sly manipulation and a touch of dark humor:
“We mustn’t lurk in doorways. It’s rude.” ~ Ursula
Ursula’s entrance is always memorable, and this quote perfectly encapsulates her deceptive charm, masking her sinister intentions with a veneer of politeness. She truly is a master manipulator, always finding a way to twist situations to her advantage.
Sebastian, the royal court composer and Ariel’s reluctant guardian, provides much of the film’s comedic relief and heartfelt advice, though sometimes with a hint of exasperation:
“Somebody’s gotta nail that girl’s fins to the floor.” ~ Sebastian
“Teenagers. They think they know everything. You give them an inch, they swim all over you.” ~ Sebastian
Sebastian’s frustration with Ariel’s rebellious nature is a running gag throughout the film, resonating with anyone who has tried to guide a spirited teenager. His exasperated remarks highlight the cultural clash between the secure, familiar world under the sea and Ariel’s longing for the unknown human world.
Prince Eric, the charming human prince, offers a glimpse into the world Ariel so desperately desires:
“Isn’t this great? The salty sea air, the wind blowing in your face. A perfect day to be at sea!” ~ Eric
His simple joy in sailing perfectly illustrates the allure of the surface world for Ariel, painting a picture of freedom and adventure that she can only dream of.
Scuttle, the eccentric seagull, serves as Ariel’s well-meaning but often hilariously misinformed guide to human objects:
“It’s a dinglehopper. Humans use these little babies to straighten their hair out.” ~ Scuttle
Scuttle’s unique interpretations of human artifacts like the “dinglehopper” (fork) and “snarfblat” (pipe) are some of the film’s most amusing moments, showcasing his endearing cluelessness and adding a touch of whimsy to Ariel’s treasure collection.
Even minor characters like Grimsby, Prince Eric’s loyal steward, deliver memorable lines that add to the film’s charm:
“Now, let’s eat before this crab wanders off my plate.” ~ Grimsby
A humorous and slightly dark remark that provides a quick laugh, especially with Sebastian nearby!
Ariel’s aspirations and dreams are beautifully articulated through her powerful statements:
“Look at this stuff. Isn’t it neat?” ~ Ariel
“I’m sixteen years old. I’m not a child anymore.” ~ Ariel
“Who says that my dreams have to stay my dreams?” ~ Ariel
“I wanna be where the people are, I wanna see, Wanna see ’em dancing, walking around on those…What do you call ’em? Oh… feet!” ~ Ariel
These quotes encapsulate Ariel’s fierce independence and her unwavering belief in her dreams. They reflect a universal desire for self-discovery and a yearning to belong, making her journey incredibly relatable for audiences of all ages. Her iconic song, “Part of Your World,” is a testament to this longing, dreaming of a life among humans.
Sebastian, ever the voice of reason (or caution), frequently tries to keep Ariel grounded, often with amusing results:
“Ariel, listen to me. The human world is a mess. Life under the sea is better than anything they got up there.” ~ Sebastian
“Ariel, please! Will you get your head out of the clouds and back in the water where it belongs?” ~ Sebastian
“We got no troubles…life is bubbles under the sea.” ~ Sebastian
These lines, especially the last one, lead directly into the joyous and iconic “Under the Sea” song, a vibrant celebration of oceanic life that Sebastian champions so passionately. It’s a stark contrast to Ariel’s ambitions, highlighting the central conflict of the film.
Ariel’s wonder and curiosity are ever-present:
“Have you ever seen something so wonderful in your entire life?” ~ Ariel
This quote captures Ariel’s childlike fascination with the human world, seeing wonder in every trinket she discovers.
More pearls of wisdom from Sebastian, often delivered with a dose of cynicism:
“The seaweed is always greener in somebody else’s lake.” ~ Sebastian
“Jeez, mon, I’m surrounded by amateurs. You want something done, you’ve got to do it yourself.” ~ Sebastian
These classic Sebastian quotes are not only humorous but also carry a touch of philosophical truth, reflecting on contentment and self-reliance.
Ariel’s journey ultimately teaches valuable lessons about self-acceptance and love:
“Sweetie, it doesn’t matter if you have fins or feet. We love you for who you are on the inside, our very brave little girl.” ~ Ariel
This heartwarming quote from Ariel, spoken to her daughter Melody in “The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea,” beautifully echoes the core message of love and acceptance, demonstrating how Ariel’s experiences shaped her as a mother.
The lyrics from “Under the Sea” are filled with Sebastian’s persuasive arguments:
Down here all the fish is happy
As off through the waves, they roll
The fish on the land ain’t happy
They sad ’cause they in their bowl
But fish in the bowl is lucky
They in for a worser fate
One day when the boss get hungry
Guess who’s gon’ be on the plate
~ Sebastian
This segment of the iconic song brilliantly captures Sebastian’s passionate plea for Ariel to stay in her safe, happy underwater home, using both joy and a touch of grim humor to make his point.
Ariel’s innocent romantic musings:
“He loves me. He loves me not. He loves me! I knew it.” ~ Ariel
A simple yet sweet moment that perfectly illustrates Ariel’s infatuation with Prince Eric.
Another profound lyrical quote from Ariel, expressing her deepest desires from “Part of Your World”:
What would I give
If I could live
Outta these waters?
What would I pay
To spend a day
Warm on the sand?
~ Ariel
These lines are the very heart of Ariel’s character, showcasing her profound longing and willingness to sacrifice everything for her dream.
And finally, Sebastian’s ultimate expression of exasperation and desire for retirement:
“Sebastian, you watch over her,” he said. I’m too old for this! A crab my age should be retired! Getting a tan! Playing sea golf! Sipping a Tuna Colada! Not babysitting another teenager.” ~ Sebastian
This quote hilariously highlights Sebastian’s endless woes as Ariel’s minder, painting a vivid picture of his dream retirement versus his current stressful reality.
Dive Deeper: Exploring The Little Mermaid Walt Disney Signature Collection
The release of “The Little Mermaid” as part of the highly esteemed Walt Disney Signature Collection is a true treat for fans. Commemorating its 30th anniversary, this edition not only celebrates the film’s artistic brilliance but also offers an unprecedented dive into its creation and legacy. The film, a two-time Academy Award®-winner for Best Original Score and Best Original Song (“Under the Sea,” 1989), is now presented with a host of all-new bonus features and an exciting sing-along mode, making it an essential addition to any Disney enthusiast’s collection.
This Signature Edition lovingly showcases the movie’s award-winning musical score and iconic songs like “Under the Sea” and “Part of Your World.” The inclusion of a sing-along mode allows viewers to fully immerse themselves, joining Ariel, Sebastian, and the entire cast in their musical journey. Imagine belting out “Kiss the Girl” or “Poor Unfortunate Souls” right from your living room!
Unveiling the All-New Bonus Features on Blu-Ray & Digital
The true treasures of this Signature Edition lie within its never-before-seen bonus content. These features provide fascinating insights and heartwarming moments, inviting fans behind the scenes and into the minds of the creative geniuses who brought this underwater world to life.
- Sing-Along Mode – Experience the entire film in a dynamic sing-along version, with lyrics displayed on screen, perfect for family movie nights and aspiring vocalists.
- Alan Menken & the Leading Ladies Song – This unique feature gathers legendary composer Alan Menken with some of Disney’s most iconic leading ladies: Jodi Benson (Ariel), Paige O’Hara (Belle), Judy Kuhn (Pocahontas Singing Voice), Lillias White (Calliope), and Donna Murphy (Mother Gothel). They reminisce, sing, and celebrate the music of their films, all centered around “The Little Mermaid” as the starting point. It’s a rare and intimate discussion that highlights the incredible musical legacy created by Menken and these talented women.
- “What I Want From You…Is YOUR VOICE” – Step into the recording studio for an exclusive, inside look at “The Little Mermaid” cast in their original recording sessions. This feature offers a raw and authentic glimpse into the voice acting process, revealing the dedication and talent behind these beloved characters.
- Stories From Walt’s Office – Gadgets & Gizmos – In this insightful installment, we explore Walt Disney’s personal collections. Much like Ariel, Walt was a passionate collector, from miniatures to early mechanical characters that inspired the revolutionary audio-animatronics. Discover how Walt’s personal interests often fueled his creative ventures.
- #TreasuresUntold – Join Ruby Rose Turner and Olivia Sanabia from the Disney Channel Original Series “Coop and Cami Ask the World” as they dive deep to uncover hidden treasures and fun facts about Disney’s “The Little Mermaid.” It’s a fun, family-friendly exploration of the film’s delightful secrets.
- DCapella “Part of Your World” Music Video – Enjoy a breathtaking performance of Ariel’s signature song by the acapella sensation, DCapella. Their unique rendition adds a fresh perspective to this timeless classic.
Revisiting the Classics: Additional Bonus Features
In addition to the new content, fans will also have access to hours of beloved classic bonus features from previous releases, ensuring a comprehensive look at the film’s history and impact. These include:
- Deleted Character: Harold The Merman – Explore characters that almost made it into the film.
- Under The Scene: The Art Of Live Action Reference – A fascinating look at the animation techniques used.
- Howard’s Lecture – Insights from the brilliant Howard Ashman, co-writer and lyricist.
- Audio Commentary With Ron Clements, John Musker and Alan Menken – Listen to the creators as they share their thoughts and memories of making the film.
Digital Exclusives: Deeper Dives and More
For those opting for the digital version, even more exclusive content awaits:
- “Part of Your World” – A 30-Year Retrospective – Songwriter Alan Menken and Jodi Benson, the iconic voice of Ariel, come together to perform and discuss the enduring impact of “Part of Your World,” often considered the epitome of Disney “I Want” songs, 30 years after its debut.
- Classic Bonus Features – The digital edition also includes over 3 additional hours of previously released classic bonus features, including deleted scenes, Easter eggs, music videos, and much more, offering an exhaustive collection for the ultimate fan.
*Please note: Bonus features may vary by retailer.
The Enduring Legacy of The Little Mermaid
Thirty years on, “The Little Mermaid” continues to hold a special place in the hearts of millions. Its themes of pursuing dreams, overcoming obstacles, and finding where you truly belong resonate across generations. The film’s stunning animation, coupled with its unforgettable soundtrack by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman, created a magical experience that remains as fresh and captivating today as it was three decades ago.
The Walt Disney Signature Collection edition ensures that this timeless tale, with its vibrant characters and inspiring message, will continue to delight and inspire new audiences for many years to come. Whether you’re revisiting Ariel’s journey or introducing it to a new generation, this release is the perfect way to celebrate the enduring power of dreams and the magic of Disney animation. So, grab your copy, gather your family, and get ready to dive back into the wonders of “The Little Mermaid”!
Disclaimer: Disney paid for my travel expenses to attend a press event in Los Angeles, CA for Ralph Breaks the Internet. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this article are solely my own.