The Little Mermaid: Ariel's Beginning.

Name: The Little Mermaid: Ariel's Beginning
Genre: Animation, Fantasy, Musical
Released: 2008-08-26
Duration: 77 min
Cast: Jodi Benson, Samuel E. Wright, Jim Cummings, Sally Field, Parker Goris

Before the surface, there was a song.

Long before meeting Prince Eric, Ariel grows up in a kingdom where her grieving father has banned music. Finding a secret musical gathering draws her into conflict with a governess who wants greater power.

33%Tomatometer6 critics · Rotten Tomatoes

Checked Oct 19, 2026. About these scores

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Why it’s a little special

Ariel's sisters and a music-loving Sebastian add new angles to a familiar underwater world.

BEFORE YOU PRESS PLAY

Know the story.
Know your little people.

General audiences

US film rating

A mother's death, grief, strict parenting, imprisonment and dangerous chases. Some underwater attacks may frighten younger viewers.

Our notes are a starting point, not an age recommendation. G and PG films can still include intense moments. You know your family best.

BEHIND THE SCENES

The little details.

Directed by: Peggy Holmes
Starring: Jodi Benson, Samuel E. Wright, Jim Cummings, Sally Field, Parker Goris, Lorelei Hill Butters, Tara Strong, Jennifer Hale
Written by: Robert Reece, Evan Spiliotopoulos
Produced by: Kendra Halland
Release date: August 26, 2008
Runtime: 77 minutes
Genre: Animation, Fantasy, Musical
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures
Language: English

LIGHTS DOWN. SNACKS READY.

Where to watch.

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United States · Checked Oct 19, 2026 via JustWatch. Availability and plans can change. Channels may require an extra subscription; ad-supported plans may have restrictions.