20 Easter Eggs & Hidden Details in The Little Mermaid 2023
Dive into the fantastical realm of Disney’s 2023 “The Little Mermaid” adaptation and embark on an enchanting treasure hunt through its vibrant world of hidden details and Easter eggs. Each twist and turn of this beautifully crafted tale is laden with intricate details, woven into its fabric to pay homage to its 1989 predecessor, the timeless original, and Hans Christian Andersen’s classic tale. From a mermaid-themed Disney intro to a cameo by Jodi Benson, the voice of the original Ariel, these treasures add layers of depth and nostalgia to this beloved tale. Here, we’ve meticulously curated 15 gems that sparkle beneath the surface of “The Little Mermaid” 2023 adaptation, beckoning fans to embark on a cinematic journey of discovery and reminiscence.
Diving into the Mermaid World with a Custom Disney Intro
Disney fans are greeted with an unusual yet enchanting surprise as the company’s well-known intro transforms to echo the aquatic theme of The Little Mermaid. The iconic Disney castle morphs into a pink replica of Prince Eric’s castle, ensconced by a majestic waterfall reminiscent of the roiling sea that forms the film’s setting.
The familiar tune of “When You Wish Upon A Star” replaces the heartwarming melody of “Part of Your World.” These fresh alterations stoke excitement for the film and hint at the fantastical journey that awaits, underscoring Disney’s commitment to thematic consistency while setting the stage for a delightful viewing experience.
Probing Deeper with a Hans Christian Andersen Quote
Before the narrative takes off, viewers are presented with a profound quote from Hans Christian Andersen, the original author of The Little Mermaid. The quote, “…But a mermaid has no tears, and therefore she suffers so much more,” is a touching homage to Andersen’s legacy.
More importantly, it subtly reflects Ariel’s intense battles concerning her identity and societal expectations. This detail enriches the film’s depth by reminding viewers of the melancholic undertones of the original tale and hinting at the character development and struggles Ariel must grapple with in this modern adaptation.
The Telescope: More than an Object
In this 2023 adaptation, Ariel discovers not a “dinglehopper” or Eric’s statue but a seemingly innocuous telescope that later assumes pivotal importance in her journey. The telescope symbolizes Ariel and Eric’s curiosity about the world beyond their immediate realities. It becomes a tangible representation of their budding relationship.
Eric educates Ariel about constellations, connecting their shared fascination for the cosmos. Ariel uses this newfound knowledge to communicate her name to him. Through this narrative arc, the film underscores the significance of shared passions and learning in forming deep relationships, setting the telescope as a pivotal artifact in the narrative.
An Unexpected Twist: Ariel’s Sisters’ Names
In an amusing departure from the original, Ariel’s sisters in the new film bear names that end with ‘A,’ unlike the original, where all names began with an ‘A.’ The sisters—Perla, Indira, Mala, Tamika, Karina, and Caspia—are presented in a unique light that subtly spotlights Ariel’s individuality.
The deliberate choice to differentiate Ariel’s name from her sisters underscores her rebellious spirit and refusal to conform to the norm. This detail, though minute, reinforces the character’s uniqueness and serves as an ingenious way of highlighting Ariel’s struggle with conforming to the rules of her undersea home.