What seems more likely, that the identity-focused themes in The Little Mermaid are somehow genuinely subversive and were slipped past the suits at Disney, or th

What seems more likely, that the identity-focused themes in The Little Mermaid are somehow genuinely subversive and were slipped past the suits at Disney, or that Disney has learned how to incorporate certain themes to apply a patina of subversiveness to its otherwise straightforwardly propagandistic movies? > While teaching young Ariel how to “get your man,” Ursula applies makeup, exaggerates her hips and shoulders, and accessorizes (her eel companions, Flotsam and Jetsam, are gender neutral)—all standard tropes of drag. “And don’t underestimate the importance of body language!,” sings Ursula with delicious sarcasm. The overall lesson: Being a woman in a man’s world is all about putting on a show. You are in control; you control the show. Sells added, “Ariel learns gender, not as a natural category, but as a performed construct.” It’s a powerful message for young girls, one deeply threatening to the King Tritons (and Ronald Reagans) of the world. Ah yes, teaching young girls to wear makeup and accessorize, truly a crushing blow to the patriarchy.