When one thinks of Easter Egg’s, Pixar movies are typically the first to come to mind. The truth is Disney has been doing it for numerous years. Let’s dive in (pun intended) to a classic, the start of Disney’s Renaissance period…The Little Mermaid!
Ariel's Grotto
Ariel’s grotto is a treasure trove of human artifacts. We can assume that most were found among ship wrecks that Ariel investigated, which leads to a variety of items.
Abraham Lincoln: This one is pretty random, blink and you will miss it! During Ariel’s song, “Part of Your World”, a bust of the 16th President can be seen sitting on a shelf.
Mary Magdalene: Here we see a replica of Georges de La Tour “Magdalene with the Smoking Flame”. As Ariel literally wonders how fire works, she stares longingly at the flame in the painting. Just as Mary, Ariel is seen as an outcast wanting to be a part of something bigger.
Mr. Limpet
If you do not know who Mr. Limpet is…you are not alone! While ‘The Incredible Mr. Limpet’ is not a Disney movie, the main character, Henry Limpet, is the complete opposite of Ariel as he wants to live his life as a fish in the sea. The fish version of him can be found at the very end of Sebastian’s song, ‘Under the Sea.’
Cinderella
While the beloved Princess does not make an appearance in the movie, there is striking resemblance between her servant outfit and the attire worn by Eric’s maid.
But that isn’t the only reference to the 1950’s movie Cinderella. During Eric’s and Vanessa’s (Ursula) wedding, both the King and Grand Duke are spotted among the guests.
Directors
Director’s John Musker and Ron Clements are the masterminds behind Disney classics, The Great Mouse Detective, Aladdin, Hercules, Treasure Planet, The Princess and the Frog, Moana, and of course, The Little Mermaid. Their likeness can be seen for a brief moment in each of their films. You can find this duo towards the end of the film as guests of Eric’s and Vanessa’s (Ursula) wedding.
Hans Christian Andersen
The film, based off the classic written by Hans Christian Andersen, has a tribute to the author.
At the end of the movie, Ariel is seen sitting on a rock longingly looking at Eric laying on the beach. Her posture mimics the famous “The Little Mermaid” statue which is found in Copenhagen, Denmark, where Andersen once lived.
Hidden Mickeys
Just like in the theme parks, Hidden Mickeys are found in Disney films.
Pals
Then there is Mickey, Donald, and Goofy present for the concert in the beginning scene!
Kermit is there too!
Which Easter Egg is your favorite? Even though I have never seen ‘The Incredible Mr. Limpet’ I love the idea of two creatures desiring opposite lives. Kudos to whoever figured that one out! Share your favorite one in the chat!
