The Little Mermaid - Ariel's Beginning (DVD, 2008)

The story is a prequel to "The Little Mermaid," and explains how King Triton banned music in his kingdom when his wife was killed. We learn how Sebastian became the music conductor for King Triton, and how Ariel & Flounder met. Naturally, it is the full-of-life Ariel who helps bring music back to her father's life. Although the villain is not as fun and nasty as the legendary Ursula, Marina Del Rey (ably voiced by Sally Field) is plenty of fun as the evil governess for King Triton's daughter. Not content to be a governess, she plots to usurp Sebastian's position, even if it means getting rid of Ariel. Jodi Benson returns as the voice of Ariel. In both singing and acting, she is fantastic and totally believeable as the songstress under the sea. As Sebastian, Samuel E. Wright returns...who else could voice this classic animated character? There are seven musical numbers in the film, and the fact that it was directed by a choreographer (Peggy Holmes) is a plus. The movement of the characters in the film AND the dance numbers are fantastic.

Extras are also great. 2 backstage Disney featurettes: "Splashdance" is a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the movie, hosted by director Peggy Holmes. "The Little Mermaid: Under the Sea and Behind The Scenes On Broadway" gives a backstage look at the Broadway musical production, featuring interviews with the cast. There are 2 deleted scenes (shown in storyboard form), "Music & More" (where viewers can directly access the musical numbers AND watch them karaoke-style with the words on the screen), and the game "Mermaid Discovery Vanity Game," where you can learn about each of King Triton's daughters by clicking on the personal items on their vanity/makeup tables.

Overall, a wonderful DVD for children of all ages. Definitely a quality production!

I have been a mermaid fanatic since I was a little girl and my daughter has followed in my footsteps. I loved this movie! It is a sweet story that gives little mermaid lovers the back story on how Ariel met her friends Flounder and Sebastian. It also gives you a look at Ariel's mother and you can then see why king Triton is so protective of Ariel. This was a cute movie that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

I bought the DVD for my grand-daughter about three weeks ago. She loves it! The Disney art work is as good as the original "The Little Mermaid." The music,songs and story line would engage pre-schoolers and older children. The product was new and I have no complaints. One to become a classic in any Disney DVD collection.

My daughter has the two other Mermaid movies and Ariel's Beginnings was watched so much, that the DVD got worned out. I wanted another one, but you couldn't find it in stores. So I turned to Ebay and within a few days, purchased one and my daughter was so excited. Great presequel to Ariel's life. Great story and message of family. Walt Disney never fails to find the kid in you.

After watching and loving the first Little Mermaid I did not think much of this film even though the Little Mermaid II was not disappointing. I loved the fact that we got more of a background history about Ariel's mother/father, her sisters actually had roles in the movie and we got to know every last one. The music was fun and entertaining, the story line was easy to keep up with. It is a great children's movie and entertaining for adults as well.