Hot Topics:

'Little Mermaid' movie premieres

'Ariel's Beginning' screens on Catalina Island

Exec producer Lata Ryan dies at 59

Meteor names Syd Smith group CEO

Anderson working on 'Master'(6281 views)

Sundance unveils competition lineup(5833 views)

NBR's best: 'Up in the Air'(3777 views)

Comcast, GE unveil NBC U deal(3388 views)

Sundance unveils complete lineup(3143 views)

Johnny Depp eyes Pancho Villa role(2068 views)

HOLLYWOOD -- Guests traveled over the sea rather than under it to the Saturday preem of Disney ToonStudio's "The Little Mermaid: Ariel's Beginning" on Catalina Island.

After the film unspooled in the island's gorgeous and historic art deco casino, the guests were treated to a cookout by the sparkling sea as a steel drum band played Caribbean-inspired ditties. One of the biggest hits with the kids (and adults) was a machine that created bubble mermaids that flew through the air and down the coast -- puzzling and delighting beachgoers.

Those enjoying the sun and sea were the Little Mermaid herself, Jodi Benson; Samuel E. Wright, who voices Sebastian the crab; the film's director, Peggy Holmes; Bob Chapek, president of Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment; WDSHE's Gabrielle Chamberlin, senior VP of brand marketing, North America; and thesps Noah Wyle, Kevin James and Melora Hardin with their families.