The Little Mermaid Workprint !!hot!! Jun 2026
The Little Mermaid workprint is a valuable historical artifact that provides insight into the production of a beloved animated film. The workprint's music, characters, and storyline demonstrate the early stages of the film's development, showcasing the creative process of the filmmakers and songwriters. As a cultural artifact, the workprint serves as a reminder of the collaborative and iterative process involved in creating a Disney animated film. Its significance extends beyond its historical importance, highlighting the enduring appeal of The Little Mermaid and its music.
The Little Mermaid workprint is a rough, 30-minute version of the film that features a different storyline, character designs, and musical numbers. Created in 1987, the workprint was used as a internal testing tool to gauge the reaction of audiences and studio executives. The workprint features many of the same characters, including Ariel, Eric, and Ursula, but with distinct differences in their designs and personalities.
One of the most notable aspects of the workprint is its music. The film features several songs that were later reworked or replaced in the final version, including "Somewhere in My Memory" (later replaced by "Part of Your World") and "Dive Down" (later replaced by "Poor Unfortunate Souls"). The workprint also features a different version of "Under the Sea," which was later reworked and won an Academy Award for Best Original Song. the little mermaid workprint
Official workprints are strictly guarded intellectual property, and Disney has never officially released the full The Little Mermaid workprint to the public. However, fragments, rough pencil tests, and deleted scenes have been officially restored and included as bonus features on various Platinum, Diamond, and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray releases.
The Little Mermaid workprint is a fascinating artifact that serves a purpose far beyond mere novelty. It acts as a behind-the-scenes pass to the Disney Renaissance, offering a transparent look at the rigorous process of animation. By studying this rough draft, we gain a deeper appreciation for the finished film, understanding the discipline, editing, and artistic iteration required to create a classic. It reminds us that every masterpiece begins as a sketch, and that the journey of creation is just as compelling as the final result. The Little Mermaid workprint is a valuable historical
Howard Ashman and lyricist-partner Alan Menken famously fought to keep this iconic ballad in the film after early test screenings with children bombed. The workprint shows the song in a highly transitional state, featuring alternate vocal inflections from Jodi Benson.
Fully completed, colored cells married to painted gouache backgrounds, identical to the theatrical release. Key Alterations and Deleted Material The workprint features many of the same characters,
Viewing The Little Mermaid workprint reveals a patchwork of visual styles:
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