Sebastian and Flounder: The Importance of Side Characters in The Little Mermaid

The Little Mermaid is a timeless Disney classic that has captured the hearts of audiences young and old since its release in 1989. The film tells the story of Ariel, a young mermaid who dreams of exploring the world above the sea. While Ariel is undoubtedly the star of the show, it's her sidekicks, Sebastian and Flounder, who play a crucial role in bringing the story to life.

The Role of Sebastian

Sebastian, a red Jamaican crab, serves as Ariel's advisor and protector throughout her journey. With his catchy musical numbers and witty one-liners, Sebastian quickly became a fan favorite character. But his importance goes beyond just providing entertainment.

As Ariel's confidant, Sebastian acts as her voice of reason. He offers guidance and tries to steer her away from making impulsive decisions. For example, when Ariel expresses her desire to become human and marry Prince Eric, it's Sebastian who reminds her of the consequences that may follow.

In addition to being Ariel's conscience, Sebastian also plays an instrumental role in helping her achieve her goals. When Ariel loses her voice after making a deal with Ursula, it's Sebastian who steps up and leads the charge to save her. He rallies all the sea creatures together to create a distraction during Ursula's transformation into Vanessa.

Sebastian brings both humor and heart to the film. His vibrant personality complements Ariel's spirited nature, creating a dynamic duo that audiences can't help but root for.

The Role of Flounder

Flounder, a yellow and blue tropical fish, is Ariel's loyal best friend. While he may be small in size, his bravery and unwavering support make him an invaluable sidekick.

Although Flounder is often fearful of the unknown, he consistently puts himself in danger to protect Ariel. Whether it's rescuing her from dangerous situations or providing a shoulder to lean on during difficult times, Flounder is always there for her.

Flounder's devotion to Ariel demonstrates the power of friendship and the lengths we're willing to go for those we care about. His innocence and purity remind us of the importance of loyalty and unconditional love.

The Impact of Side Characters

While Ariel may be the main character of The Little Mermaid, it's clear that Sebastian and Flounder play crucial roles in shaping both the story and audience experience. Without their presence, the film would lose some of its depth and charm.

Side characters like Sebastian and Flounder are essential because they provide comic relief, offer moral guidance, and enhance the overall emotional impact of a story. They allow audiences to connect with the main character on a deeper level by highlighting different aspects of their personality.

In addition, side characters often serve as foils to the main character. In this case, both Sebastian and Flounder contrast with Ariel in terms of their personalities and perspectives. This contrast allows for more nuanced storytelling and helps to showcase different facets of Ariel's character.

The Cultural Impact

The Little Mermaid was not only a box office success but also had a profound cultural impact when it was released. It marked a resurgence for Disney animated films after a period of decline in popularity.

The characters of Sebastian and Flounder contributed greatly to this cultural impact. Their catchy musical numbers, such as "Under the Sea" and "Kiss the Girl," became iconic songs that are still beloved today. Their memorable personalities and interactions with Ariel have made them some of the most recognizable Disney sidekicks.

Furthermore, Sebastian's Jamaican accent and cultural references brought diversity to the film and introduced audiences to a broader range of experiences. This representation was important for children growing up watching The Little Mermaid, as it showed them characters who looked and sounded different from what they may have been accustomed to seeing in mainstream media.

The Legacy

Thirty years after its release, The Little Mermaid continues to captivate audiences with its enchanting story and unforgettable characters. Sebastian and Flounder, as side characters, have played an integral role in shaping the legacy of this beloved film.

Their enduring popularity can be seen in various forms of media and merchandise—from toys and clothing to theme park attractions. They have become cultural icons that represent friendship, loyalty, and the magic of Disney storytelling.

So next time you watch The Little Mermaid or introduce it to a new generation, pay attention to the importance of side characters like Sebastian and Flounder. They may not be the main focus of the story, but their presence enriches the narrative and leaves a lasting impact on viewers.