Part 5/10:
The Role of Identity Politics and Creative Changes
Critics argue that Disney's The Little Mermaid was marred by heavy-handed identity politics. Observers note that the film not only cast Halle Bailey as Ariel—breaking with tradition—but also altered fundamental aspects of the story and lyrics to suit a modern, feminist, and politically correct agenda. Changes include shifting the ending so Ariel is responsible for wrecking Prince Eric's ship instead of the original storyline, and reimagining characters and story beats to align with contemporary social themes.