The Little Mermaid (1989 film) ""The Little Mermaid" is a jolly and inventive animated fantasy—a movie that's so creative and so much fun it deserves comparison with the best Disney work of the past." Ebert also commented positively on the character of Ariel, stating, "... Ariel is a fully realized female character who thinks and acts independently, even rebelliously, instead of hanging around passively while the fates decide her destiny." The staff of "TV Guide" wrote a positive review, praising the film's return to the traditional Disney musical as well as the film's animation. Yet they also wrote that the film is detracted from by
The Little Mermaid II: Pinball Frenzy film "The Little Mermaid" (1989) and its direct-to-video sequel "" (2000). The game supports up to four players through alternating tables. Disney Interactive Studios agreed to develop "The Little Mermaid II: Pinball Frenzy" alongside Left Field Productions as part of its focus on children's entertainment software. The game received mixed reviews; commentators praised its visuals and appeal to girls, while others questioned the decision to base a title on "The Little Mermaid" property. "The Little Mermaid II: Pinball Frenzy" received comparisons to "Pokémon Pinball" (1999) from critics, who disagreed over which game was better. "The Little Mermaid II: Pinball Frenzy"