The Little Mermaid 2023
🎬 The Little Mermaid (2023) – “Part of her world, a whole new vision.”
| Rating: IMDb: 7.2/10 | Rotten Tomatoes: 67%
| Release Date: May 26, 2023
| Directed by: Rob Marshall
| Main Cast: Halle Bailey (Ariel), Jonah Hauer-King (Prince Eric), Melissa McCarthy (Ursula), Javier Bardem (King Triton), Daveed Diggs (voice of Sebastian), Awkwafina (voice of Scuttle), Jacob Tremblay (voice of Flounder)
Plot Summary
Disney’s live-action adaptation of The Little Mermaid brings a fresh perspective to the beloved animated classic while retaining its heart and charm. Ariel (Halle Bailey), a curious and free-spirited young mermaid, dreams of exploring the human world despite her father King Triton’s (Javier Bardem) strict prohibition. Fascinated by human artifacts and the surface world, Ariel’s longing intensifies when she saves the handsome Prince Eric (Jonah Hauer-King) during a shipwreck.
Ariel’s obsession leads her to make a dangerous deal with Ursula (Melissa McCarthy), the cunning sea witch. In exchange for her voice, Ariel is given legs and three days to win Eric’s love with a true love’s kiss—otherwise, she will belong to Ursula forever.
On land, Ariel navigates human customs with humor and innocence, aided by Sebastian (Daveed Diggs), Scuttle (Awkwafina), and Flounder (Jacob Tremblay). As she bonds with Eric over their shared sense of adventure, Ursula schemes to thwart Ariel’s plans by disguising herself as Vanessa, using Ariel’s voice to charm Eric.
The climactic battle sees Ariel reclaiming her voice and courageously facing Ursula, who grows into a terrifying giant sea monster. With the help of Eric and her sea friends, Ariel defeats Ursula, restoring peace to the ocean. In the end, King Triton grants Ariel’s wish to live on land, recognizing her independence and true love for Eric.
Key Highlights
1. Halle Bailey as Ariel
Halle Bailey shines as Ariel, delivering a captivating performance that balances innocence, determination, and charm. Her rendition of “Part of Your World” is a standout moment, showcasing her stunning vocal talents and emotional depth.
2. Melissa McCarthy’s Ursula
McCarthy brings a delightful mix of humor and menace to Ursula, capturing the character’s theatrical villainy while adding her unique comedic flair.
3. Updated Elements
The film expands on Prince Eric’s character, giving him more depth and a subplot about his own longing for freedom and exploration. Additionally, Ariel’s motivations are tied to her adventurous spirit rather than solely romantic love, offering a modern take on her story.
4. New Songs
In addition to the original songs by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman, the film includes new tracks by Menken and Lin-Manuel Miranda, such as “The Scuttlebutt” and “Wild Uncharted Waters”, enriching the musical experience.
Cinematography and Visuals
The underwater scenes are visually stunning, using vibrant colors and realistic CGI to create a magical oceanic world. The transitions between underwater and land are seamless, immersing viewers in both realms. Ariel’s iconic transformation scene is particularly breathtaking.
Musical Score and Songs
Alan Menken’s updated score retains the magic of the original while incorporating fresh arrangements and new songs. Bailey’s “Part of Your World” and Jonah Hauer-King’s “Wild Uncharted Waters” are emotional highlights, while Daveed Diggs and Awkwafina bring humor and energy to “Under the Sea” and “The Scuttlebutt.”
Strengths of the Film
- Modern Themes: Ariel’s independence and adventurous spirit are emphasized, making her more relatable to modern audiences.
- Strong Performances: Halle Bailey and Melissa McCarthy deliver standout performances, supported by a talented ensemble cast.
- Musical Excellence: The classic songs are beautifully reimagined, while the new songs add depth and energy.
- Visual Splendor: The film’s CGI and production design create a lush and immersive world.
Critiques
- Heavy CGI: While visually impressive, some critics felt the CGI was overly reliant, particularly in scenes with underwater creatures.
- Pacing Issues: Certain moments felt prolonged, slightly affecting the story’s flow.
- Modern Adjustments: Some fans of the original film might find the updates to characters and themes jarring.
Legacy
The Little Mermaid (2023) is celebrated as a heartfelt retelling of the animated classic, with its inclusive casting and modernized themes resonating with new audiences. The film grossed over $569 million worldwide, solidifying its place as a successful entry in Disney’s live-action adaptations.
Hashtags
#TheLittleMermaid #HalleBailey #PartOfYourWorld #DisneyLiveAction #UnderTheSea #ArielAndEric
