The Social Implications of Being a Fairy Tale’s Mermaid

Abstract

Through time, fairy tales have been passed down through generations, combining human and non-human protagonists with otherworldly and mystical elements. In the film The Lure (2015), we witness a modern, dark, yet faithful take on the well-known mermaid fairy tale, The Little Mermaid written by H.C Andersen. The film includes a much more modern and feminine take on the development of the tragic story, as well as many factors taken directly from the source text. Including its messy and disheartening ending, which stands true to fairy tale folklore. The Lure is an excellent portrayal of how young women are treated in the entertainment industry, what society expects from them sexually and socially in terms that favor their male counterparts, and the innocence of a first-time young lover.