Movie Review: "The Little Mermaid"
Disney’s live-action remakes of their beloved animated classics often feel like cash grabs, but "The Little Mermaid" is a pleasant surprise. Unlike some remakes that miss the mark, this one stays true to the heart of the 1989 original while adding new layers to the story and characters.
Plot Overview
In this version, Ariel, the curious mermaid, makes a deal with the sea witch Ursula to explore the human world and find true love. The classic songs by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken, like the iconic "Under the Sea," are still here, but Ariel’s character has more depth now.
Halle Bailey shines as Ariel, bringing a mix of sweetness and strength to the role. Her performance of "Part of Your World" is particularly moving and showcases her talent.
Character Development
One of the strengths of this remake is the deeper character development for both Ariel and Prince Eric. They each have their own struggles with their parents' expectations and desires to find their own paths. This makes their relationship feel more genuine and not just a quick attraction. The script, by David Magee, adds a lot of emotional depth and gives Eric, played by Jonah Hauer-King, his own song, making him more than just a handsome prince.
Story and Performances
Ariel, the youngest of King Triton's seven daughters, longs to see the human world, despite her father’s strict rules. She defies him, rescues Prince Eric, and strikes a deal with Ursula to trade her voice for legs. If she can’t get true love’s kiss in three days, she’ll belong to Ursula forever. This version of the tale highlights Ariel’s bravery and big heart, giving her more time to connect with Eric, who doesn’t realize she saved him.
Supporting Cast
The supporting cast is lively and entertaining. Daveed Diggs as Sebastian, the crab, brings great humor and timing. Javier Bardem adds gravitas as King Triton. Awkwafina, as the seagull Scuttle, is hilarious, and Melissa McCarthy’s Ursula is both funny and menacing, adding her own twist to the role originally voiced by Pat Carroll.
Visual Effects
The film’s main weakness is the visual effects. While director Rob Marshall is known for his musical flair, the underwater scenes sometimes look fake. The mermaids’ hair and the fish, especially Flounder (voiced by Jacob Tremblay), don’t always blend well with the live-action elements. However, the "Under the Sea" number is vibrant and fun, even if it doesn’t fully capture the underwater magic.
Final Thoughts
Despite some flaws, "The Little Mermaid" is an enjoyable remake that brings fresh life to a beloved story. It’s a fun escape to a colorful world filled with memorable characters and catchy tunes. Available now on Disney+, it’s worth a watch for fans of the original and new viewers alike.