Ursula from Disney’s The Little Mermaid is indeed based on an octopus. The character was animated by Ruben A. Aquino, and her original design went through a few iterations before settling on the final concept.
When creating Ursula, the animators took inspiration from various sea creatures such as manta rays and scorpion fish. However, it was ultimately decided to base her character on an octopus. Octopuses are fascinating creatures known for their intelligence and flexibility, making them an intriguing choice for a villainous character like Ursula.
Interestingly, financial constraints led to a slight alteration in Ursula’s design. Originally, she was intended to have eight tentacles, matching the number of limbs octopuses have. However, due to budget limitations, her tentacles were reduced to six. This change did not detract from her overall appearance or character, but it is an interesting tidbit about the creative process behind her design.
It is worth noting that the decision to make Ursula an octopus was a deliberate choice by the film’s creators. Octopuses are often associated with cunning and deception in popular culture, and these traits align well with Ursula’s conniving and manipulative nature. By incorporating octopus characteristics into Ursula’s design and behavior, the animators were able to enhance her villainous portrayal and make her a memorable antagonist in the film.
Ursula from The Little Mermaid is indeed an octopus. Her design was inspired by various sea creatures but ultimately based on an octopus. The decision to make her an octopus was driven by the desire to create a villainous character with traits that align with the cunning and deceptive nature often associated with these creatures.