The Little Mermaid (2023) is a live-action adaptation of Disney’s beloved 1989 animated classic. The story follows Ariel, the youngest and most defiant of King Triton’s daughters, who dreams of exploring the human world. Her curiosity leads her to make a dangerous deal with the sea witch Ursula, trading her voice for a chance to live on land and win the heart of Prince Eric. As Ariel navigates the complexities of human life, she must also confront the consequences of her bargain, which threatens her life and her father’s kingdom.

Themes:

The film explores themes of identity, freedom, and the pursuit of one’s dreams. Ariel’s journey is a metaphor for self-discovery and breaking free from societal constraints. The movie also touches on the importance of understanding and accepting differences, as seen in the evolving relationship between Ariel and Prince Eric.

Character Development:

Ariel, portrayed by Halle Bailey, is given greater depth and complexity compared to the original. Her character is more than just a lovestruck teenager; she is a determined and curious young woman seeking her place in the world. Prince Eric, played by Jonah Hauer-King, also receives more development, with his own backstory and motivations fleshed out, making their relationship more believable and engaging.

Director’s Style:

Rob Marshall brings his signature flair for musical storytelling to The Little Mermaid. His direction ensures that the film retains the magic of the original while introducing new elements that enhance the story. The musical numbers are vibrant and well-choreographed, with “Under the Sea” and “Part of Your World” standing out as highlights.

Performances:

Halle Bailey shines as Ariel, delivering a performance that is both heartfelt and powerful. Her rendition of “Part of Your World” is particularly moving. Jonah Hauer-King brings charm and depth to Prince Eric, while Melissa McCarthy’s Ursula is delightfully menacing. Javier Bardem’s King Triton adds gravitas to the film.

Technical Aspects:

The visual effects are a mixed bag. The underwater scenes are beautifully rendered, creating an enchanting and immersive world. However, some of the CGI characters, like Flounder and Sebastian, may feel a bit uncanny to some viewers. The cinematography captures the grandeur of both the underwater kingdom and the human world, while the score by Alan Menken, with new lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, complements the film’s emotional beats.

Strengths:

• Strong performances, especially by Halle Bailey and Melissa McCarthy.
• Engaging musical numbers.
• Enhanced character development for Ariel and Prince Eric.
• Beautifully rendered underwater scenes.

Weaknesses:

• Some CGI characters may feel off-putting.
• The film’s pacing can be uneven at times.
• Certain scenes feel like direct imitations of the animated version, lacking originality.

Overall Impact: The Little Mermaid 2023

The Little Mermaid (2023) successfully brings a beloved classic to a new generation while adding depth and nuance to its characters and story. Despite some technical flaws, the film’s heart and performances make it a worthwhile watch. Fans of the original will appreciate the faithful adaptation, while new viewers will find much to enjoy in this enchanting tale.

Recommendation:

Yes, The Little Mermaid (2023) is worth recommending, especially for fans of Disney’s live-action remakes and those who appreciate a good musical. While it may not surpass the original, it offers a fresh and engaging take on a timeless story.