🎬 The Little Mermaid 2 (2026)
Rating: ★★★★☆

Plot: The Little Mermaid 2 (2026) takes audiences back to the magical world of the underwater kingdom of Atlantica, following Ariel (voiced by Halle Bailey) and her growing family. After the events of the first film, Ariel and Prince Eric are now parents to a young daughter, Melody, who is curious about the world beyond the ocean. However, tensions arise when Melody learns of her heritage as the daughter of Ariel, and the longing to explore the land stirs inside her. When a new villain, Morgana (voiced by an acclaimed actress), threatens to take over the seas and take control of the land, Melody finds herself in the middle of a new adventure. Ariel must reconcile her past and present to save her family while guiding Melody through her own journey of self-discovery and bravery. The bond between mother and daughter becomes crucial as they work together to protect their world.

Review:
The Little Mermaid 2 (2026) builds on the legacy of the original, continuing Ariel’s story while introducing a new, younger generation of characters. Halle Bailey’s Ariel is once again full of warmth and depth, portraying a mother who is both nurturing and fiercely protective of her daughter, Melody. The film cleverly expands on the themes of the first movie, balancing Ariel’s love for the human world with her responsibilities as a queen and mother. Bailey’s performance resonates with the same magic that made her Ariel such a standout in the live-action version.

The heart of the film lies in the relationship between Ariel and Melody. Their dynamic is beautifully explored, offering a fresh perspective on the mother-daughter bond while reflecting Ariel’s own journey in the first film. Melody, voiced by a rising star, is a curious and adventurous young girl who brings energy to the story. Her quest for identity and adventure mirrors Ariel’s own feelings from the original film, and her character’s growth is both relatable and empowering.

Morgana, the new villain, is a formidable antagonist who brings a sense of urgency and danger to the plot. The character is well-developed, with a personal vendetta against Ariel and her family, making her more than just a typical villain. The stakes feel high as Morgana’s plans unfold, and her dark magic contrasts with the vibrant underwater world of Atlantica. The tension between the villain’s dark magic and the bright, colorful world of the ocean gives the film an exciting visual contrast.

The animation is spectacular, with the undersea kingdom of Atlantica more beautifully realized than ever. The vibrant colors, detailed underwater landscapes, and magical creatures enhance the immersive experience, making Atlantica feel like a world full of wonder and mystery. The land and sea settings are both stunning, with the lush forests of Eric’s kingdom and the vibrant coral reefs of the ocean providing the perfect backdrop for the film’s adventures.

The musical numbers are a highlight, featuring original songs and reprises of beloved tunes from the first film, along with fresh, catchy new tracks that fit well into the film’s themes of family, adventure, and self-empowerment. The music serves to enhance the emotional beats of the film, and the choreography in the underwater scenes adds a sense of fun and joy that complements the overall tone.

The pacing of The Little Mermaid 2 is quick and engaging, balancing action, emotional depth, and humor. While the film does lean on familiar themes, it successfully brings a new layer of complexity with the introduction of Melody and her personal growth. The plot is familiar but still captivating, and it offers enough new twists to make it feel fresh.

Verdict:
The Little Mermaid 2 (2026) is a delightful continuation of Ariel’s story, with strong performances, beautiful animation, and a heartwarming tale of family, adventure, and self-discovery. With its emotional depth, fun musical moments, and powerful mother-daughter dynamic, this sequel will resonate with both old fans of the original and newcomers alike. It captures the magic and beauty of the underwater world while offering a new perspective on the themes of the first film, making it a must-see for fans of Disney’s classic tales.