When we think of animated Disney sequels, familiar franchise films like Toy Story 2 and Frozen II easily come to mind, as does the upcoming Moana 2. Yet, the 1990s and 2000s brought in a bunch of lesser-known direct-to-video sequels to several animated Disney movies; The Little Mermaid is one of them.
The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea, released in 2000, takes place several years after the original. It follows Ariel's daughter Melody and her curiosity about the sea (which mirrors Ariel's curiosity about land). The opening song establishes Melody as being born "of land and sea"; the film also shows Melody struggling to fit in because of it. Hence, Melody's desires are more grounded than Ariel's.
In addition, Melody's situation is less controversial than her mother's. When she becomes a mermaid, she only loses her legs (and not her voice). Melody is also more active at the end of the climax than Ariel was at the end of hers.
The villain of the film is Morgana, Ursula's sister who lives in an ice cave above water (in contrast to Ursula having lived underwater). What Morgana did to Melody is similar to what Ursula did to Ariel, except that Morgana identified with Melody's "mother issues"; that creates an interesting dynamic.
Of course, it was enjoyable seeing Ariel and Eric as parents caring for her child. Not only are most Disney princesses childless, but strong mother-daughter dynamics (excluding stepmothers) are rare in fairy tales. Ariel also retains a strong relationship with her father, which helps her when finding Melody.
The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea has strong emotional moments, especially when Ariel forbids Melody from the sea. There is also plenty of humor (including some adult jokes) as well as quality animation, which is lacking among Disney direct-to-DVD sequels. Filming techniques from live-action films, such as fading transitions, also enhance visual quality.
One problem with the film revolves among the Timon and Pumbaa-like duo Tip and Dash. They clearly desire to be "heroes," but they only serve as Melody's companions; little development is given to their relationship, making the film less interesting. Melody had decent dynamics with Sebastian, though.
Another flaw lies within the music. The opening song is well-done, as are the second and closing songs. Yet, there are only four songs throughout the entire film. If The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea were to be a proper musical, there would need to be at least a few more songs. Additional songs would've expanded Melody's desire for the sea or intensified the climax.
It may not be perfect, but The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea brings the Little Mermaid story to a stronger end than the first film. I especially recommend this for The Little Mermaid fans.
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