The Little Mermaid Collection backdrop
The Little Mermaid Collection poster
Official Collection
Series Freshness: Feb 02, 2026

The Little Mermaid Collection

The Little Mermaid is a 1989 American animated musical fantasy film produced by Walt Disney Feature Animation and released by Walt Disney Pictures. Based on the Danish fairy tale of the same name by Hans Christian Andersen, The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea is a direct-to-video sequel to the first film. It was released by Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment on VHS in the United States on September 19, 2000. The Little Mermaid: Ariel's Beginning is a direct-to-video prequel to the first film. The film was released on Region 1 DVD in the United States on August 26, 2008, and on Region 2 DVD in Europe on September 22, 2008.

3Movies
★ 7.4 Avg Rating

Franchise Evolution & Timeline Analysis

The The Little Mermaid Collection has evolved significantly over a span of 11 years, growing from a singular narrative into a complex cinematic universe. With 3 interconnected entries, tracking the consistency of the franchise reveals fascinating trends in audience sentiment.

The "Series" Benchmark: 6.8/10

The franchise maintains a steady average rating of 6.8. While most series experience "Sequel Fatigue," The Little Mermaid Collection has managed to keep its narrative quality relatively stable, with The Little Mermaid standing out as the peak cinematic achievement.

Continuity vs. Commercial Appeal

Our data indicates that while the "Release Order" is preferred for first-time viewers, the "Chronological Order" provides a much deeper understanding of the world-building within the The Little Mermaid Collection. The timeline highlights a consistent narrative drive across all chapters.

Timeline & Watch Order

We recommend watching the The Little Mermaid Collection franchise in the following order to fully experience the narrative expansion.

1
The Little Mermaid

The Little Mermaid

1989★ 7.4HIT

This colorful adventure tells the story of an impetuous mermaid princess named Ariel who falls in love with the very human Prince Eric and puts everything on th...

2
The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea

The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea

2000★ 6.4ABOVE AVERAGE

Set several years after the first film, Ariel and Prince Eric are happily married with a daughter, Melody. In order to protect Melody from the Sea Witch, Morgan...

3
The Little Mermaid: Ariel's Beginning

The Little Mermaid: Ariel's Beginning

2008★ 6.7HIT

Follow Ariel's adventures before she gave up her fins for true love. When Ariel wasn't singing with her sisters, she spent time with her mother, Queen Athena. A...

Common Questions about The Little Mermaid Collection

How many movies are in the The Little Mermaid Collection?

There are currently 3 movies in the The Little Mermaid Collection, starting from The Little Mermaid to the latest release, The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea.

What is the best order to watch the The Little Mermaid Collection?

The best way to watch the The Little Mermaid Collection is usually in release order: starting with The Little Mermaid and ending with The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea. Check our timeline for the full chronological breakdown.

Which is the highest-rated movie in the The Little Mermaid Collection?

According to movieMx ratings, the fans have a strong preference for The Little Mermaid in this franchise.