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Mainstream media acknowledgments of potential failure, once rare, have become more common. Many now admit that The Little Mermaid is expected to underperform and perhaps even flop financially. This stark reality contrasts sharply with Disney’s claims of pride in the movie’s diversity and inclusiveness.
Virtue Signaling and Identity Politics Backfire
Disney’s approach to casting and storytelling has been heavily centered on virtue signaling. The company altered lyrics, plot points, and even Ariel’s skin tone, focusing heavily on identity politics rather than traditional storytelling values. Disney executives have openly championed their focus on diversity, stating that they aimed to reflect a broader range of identities and experiences.