“The Little Mermaid” (2023) is a live-action adaptation of Disney’s beloved 1989 animated classic. Directed by Rob Marshall, the film brings to life the iconic story of Ariel, a young mermaid princess who dreams of experiencing the human world. Starring Halle Bailey as Ariel, the film blends nostalgia with a modern twist, delivering stunning visuals, heartfelt performances, and a fresh interpretation of the well-known tale.

Plot Overview

The story follows Ariel, the youngest daughter of King Triton (played by Javier Bardem), who is fascinated by the world above the sea. Despite her father’s strict rules forbidding contact with humans, Ariel’s curiosity drives her to the surface, where she falls in love with Prince Eric (played by Jonah Hauer-King) after rescuing him from a shipwreck. Determined to be part of his world, Ariel makes a dangerous deal with the sea witch Ursula (played by Melissa McCarthy), trading her voice for human legs.

However, Ariel must win Prince Eric’s love within three days, or she will become Ursula’s prisoner. With help from her friends—Sebastian the crab, Flounder the fish, and Scuttle the seagull—Ariel embarks on a quest to find her place between the sea and land, while also battling Ursula’s treacherous schemes.

Key Characters

• Ariel (Halle Bailey): Ariel’s character remains the heart of the story, and Halle Bailey’s portrayal offers a fresh take on the adventurous, independent mermaid. Bailey’s performance, especially her singing, brings new life to the iconic character, particularly in her renditions of classic songs like “Part of Your World.”
• Prince Eric (Jonah Hauer-King): The live-action Prince Eric has a more developed character arc compared to the original animated version. He’s given more depth, with his own backstory and motivations, making him a more active participant in the story.
• Ursula (Melissa McCarthy): McCarthy’s portrayal of the villainous sea witch Ursula strikes a balance between menacing and comedic. She brings a flamboyant energy to the character, delivering a memorable performance in the song “Poor Unfortunate Souls.”
• King Triton (Javier Bardem): Triton’s protective nature and complicated relationship with Ariel are further explored in the live-action version. Bardem portrays Triton as a stern yet loving father, emphasizing the themes of family and understanding.
• Supporting Characters: The beloved side characters, including Sebastian (voiced by Daveed Diggs), Flounder (voiced by Jacob Tremblay), and Scuttle (voiced by Awkwafina), provide comic relief and help drive Ariel’s journey. Awkwafina’s Scuttle brings a modern and humorous flair to the role.

Themes

• Identity and Freedom: As with the original, the film explores Ariel’s longing to find her true self and her place in the world. The live-action version delves deeper into the themes of identity, personal freedom, and breaking away from societal expectations.
• Love and Sacrifice: Ariel’s love for Prince Eric and her willingness to give up her voice for a chance at happiness remain central to the plot. However, the film adds more nuance to her journey, focusing not just on romantic love, but also on Ariel’s self-discovery and growth.
• Family and Understanding: Ariel’s relationship with her father is more layered in this adaptation, highlighting themes of family conflict, misunderstanding, and eventual reconciliation.

Visuals and Special Effects

One of the most impressive aspects of The Little Mermaid (2023) is its stunning visual effects. The underwater world is beautifully realized, with vibrant colors, fluid motion, and intricate details that bring the oceanic environment to life. The live-action adaptation skillfully blends CGI and practical effects to create a fantastical yet believable setting.

Ariel’s transformation from mermaid to human is also a key visual moment, with Ursula’s magic providing a dramatic and visually captivating sequence. The underwater creatures, especially Sebastian and Flounder, are given realistic yet expressive designs that fit seamlessly into the film’s aesthetic.

Music

The film retains much of the original’s iconic soundtrack by Alan Menken, including beloved songs like “Under the Sea” and “Kiss the Girl.” In addition to these classics, there are a few new songs written by Menken and Hamilton creator Lin-Manuel Miranda. These additions give the film a fresh musical element while maintaining the charm of the original.

Halle Bailey’s performance of “Part of Your World” is a standout, with her powerful vocals breathing new life into the song. The music plays a key role in maintaining the emotional resonance of the film, connecting viewers to both nostalgia and new interpretations.

Conclusion

The Little Mermaid (2023) successfully brings the beloved Disney classic to a new generation with a fresh, visually stunning adaptation. Halle Bailey’s Ariel shines as a strong and independent heroine, while the film’s balance of modern updates and faithful renditions of the original’s iconic elements ensures it appeals to both long-time fans and new audiences. With its engaging performances, breathtaking visuals, and a mix of old and new music, The Little Mermaid continues to capture the magic of its predecessor.