The Little Mermaid (1989) -
The film's soundtrack, composed by with lyrics by Howard Ashman , is considered a masterpiece that defined the modern Disney formula.
After a climactic battle where Eric defeats a monstrously enlarged Ursula, Triton realizes Ariel's devotion and permanently transforms her into a human so she can marry Eric. Musical Innovation The Little Mermaid (1989)
Released on November 17, 1989, is widely credited with launching the Disney Renaissance , a decade-long era of critical and commercial dominance for the studio. Directed by Ron Clements and John Musker, the film revitalized the animated musical by adopting a sophisticated Broadway-style structure. Core Plot & Characters The film's soundtrack, composed by with lyrics by