The Enigmatic Eels of a Beloved Underwater Tale

The Mysterious Eels of The Little Mermaid

In the depths of the ocean, where enchantment and magic reign supreme, lies a tale as old as time. The Little Mermaid, a timeless classic that captured the hearts of millions, introduced us to a world where mermaids, sea witches, and talking crustaceans coexist in harmony. Among the colorful cast of characters are Flotsam and Jetsam, the cunning eel minions of the sea witch Ursula.

Ursula speaking with Jetsam and Flotsam in The Little Mermaid

The original animated film, released in 1989, brought to life the captivating story of Ariel, a young mermaid princess with a yearning for a life beyond the sea. The eels, Flotsam and Jetsam, played a crucial role in the narrative, serving as the eyes and ears of Ursula, the formidable sea witch. Their slinky demeanor and ominous presence added a layer of intrigue to the story, making them more than mere sidekicks.

Flotsam and Jetsam smiling in The Little Mermaid

While the 2023 live-action remake of The Little Mermaid garnered praise for its modern reinterpretation of the beloved tale, one aspect left fans longing for more. The absence of speaking roles for Flotsam and Jetsam in the remake was a missed opportunity to delve deeper into the characters' personalities and their dynamic with Ursula. The eels, who were pivotal in the original animated film, were reduced to non-speaking parts in the live-action adaptation, leaving a void in the storytelling.

Melissa McCarthy as Urusla with her eels behind her in The Little Mermaid 2023 live-action remake

The Lost Voices of the Eels

In the intricate web of storytelling, every character plays a vital role in shaping the narrative and adding depth to the plot. Flotsam and Jetsam, with their sinister charm and unwavering loyalty to Ursula, brought a darker element to The Little Mermaid. Their interactions with the sea witch provided a glimpse into Ursula's cunning nature and added a layer of complexity to her character.

Ariel speaking with Jetsam and Flotsam in The Little Mermaid

Comedians Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang, known for their wit and humor, expressed interest in lending their voices to Flotsam and Jetsam in the live-action remake. The comedic duo envisioned a scenario filled with banter, charm, and laughter, breathing new life into the iconic eels. However, their hopes were dashed when it was revealed that the eels would remain silent in the film, missing out on the opportunity to showcase their comedic talents and bring a fresh perspective to the characters.

Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers sitting together in Watch What Happens Live

A Missed Opportunity for Humor and Depth

The decision to sideline Flotsam and Jetsam in the live-action remake of The Little Mermaid was a disappointment for fans and critics alike. The eels, who had been integral to the original film's success, deserved a more prominent role in the modern retelling of the story. With the potential for humor, wit, and depth that Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang could have brought to the characters, the missed opportunity to explore their voices and personalities is a loss to the film's overall richness and charm.

Melissa McCarthy as Ursula looking serious in The Little Mermaid