The Little Mermaid

The Little Mermaid is a live-action remake of the 1989 Disney animated classic drawing inspiration from Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale of the same name. Starring Halle Bailey, Jonah Hauer-King, Daveed Diggs, Awkwafina, Javier Bardem and Melissa McCarthy. As the youngest daughter of King Triton, Ariel’s curiosity leads her to the surface, where she falls for the charming Prince Eric. Yet, Ariel's path to love and self-discovery takes an unexpected turn when she strikes a perilous deal with the malevolent sea witch, Ursula.

The film stays true to the original story while also making some notable changes that make it feel fresh and new. As noted by Collider's Ross Bonaime, it manages to "capture the magic of the original" while introducing significant alterations. One standout aspect of this adaptation is the strong female representation. Gone are the damsels in distress, replaced by fiercely independent women who forge their destinies without relying on the aid of a man. Ariel's sisters stepping into leadership roles instead of being mere singers, and Ariel taking a more confident role in asserting her agency provide fresh layers to the narrative.

For the majority of the film to be under water, it can be hard to truly depict that in a realistic way but I thought the cinematographer did a pretty good job of creating a colorful and visually stunning world under the sea.

What truly sets this 2023 version apart are its thoughtful themes that beautifully weave in important messages about trust, cultural open-mindedness, and the preservation of our oceans. These themes add depth to the story and resonate with modern audiences.

I appreciated the diverse casting all around, reflecting a more inclusive world. Halle Bailey embodied Ariel's naivety and innocence with authenticity, earning her place among the Disney princesses. Melissa McCarthy's Ursula proved to be a delightful surprise, showcasing her unexpected singing talent and acting range in a perfectly cast role.

While this new adaptation shines in many aspects, there are a few moments where it falls short. While The Little Mermaid delivered a kind-hearted King Eric, it raised eyebrows with its choice to have him rule over a primarily Black island. This decision, while it may have been well-intentioned, did feel somewhat off-putting to me. Additionally, Sebastian and Ariel's "Under The Sea" duet didn’t quite live up to expectations, however, the majority of the songs did manage to retain their charm, especially “Kiss the Girl”, offering a nostalgic journey through the classic soundtrack. 

In the end, The Little Mermaid offered a refreshing and enchanting take on a beloved classic. With its meaningful themes and an engaging cast it succeeded in capturing the essence of the original while adding a modern twist that was more inclusive and empowering for young girls and boys alike.