The Little Mermaid is a 2023 American musical fantasy film directed by Rob Marshall and produced by Marshall, Marc Platt, and John DeLuca. The film is a live-action adaptation of the 1989 Disney animated film of the same name, which was based on the 1837 Danish fairy tale of the same name by Hans Christian Andersen. The film stars Halle Bailey as Ariel, Jonah Hauer-King as Prince Eric, Javier Bardem as King Triton, Melissa McCarthy as Ursula, Awkwafina as Scuttle, Jacob Tremblay as Flounder, and Daveed Diggs as Sebastian.
The film follows the same basic story as the animated film, with a few minor changes. Ariel is a mermaid who dreams of becoming human and gives up her tail and voice to the sea witch Ursula in exchange for legs and the chance to win the love of a human prince. However, in the live-action film, Ariel is more of a rebellious teenager than the innocent young girl of the animated film. She is also more determined to become human, and she is willing to do whatever it takes to achieve her goal.
The film's cast is one of its strongest assets. Halle Bailey is a revelation as Ariel. She brings a fresh energy and enthusiasm to the role, and she has a beautiful singing voice. Jonah Hauer-King is also good as Prince Eric. He is charming and charismatic, and he has good chemistry with Bailey. Javier Bardem is excellent as King Triton. He is a powerful and regal figure, and he brings a lot of depth to the role. Melissa McCarthy is also great as Ursula. She is over-the-top and campy, but she is also surprisingly sympathetic. Awkwafina, Jacob Tremblay, and Daveed Diggs are all good in their supporting roles.
The film's music is also a highlight. The songs from the animated film, such as "Under the Sea" and "Part of Your World," are all here, and they are performed beautifully by the cast. The film also features a few new songs, which are all catchy and well-written.
The film's visuals are stunning. The underwater scenes are particularly beautiful, and the film's use of CGI is impressive. The film also features some great special effects, such as the scene where Ursula transforms into a giant sea monster.
Overall, The Little Mermaid is a faithful and enjoyable live-action adaptation of the beloved animated film. The film has a strong cast, great music, and stunning visuals. It is a must-see for any fan of the original film or anyone who loves a good musical fantasy.
Here are some additional thoughts on the film:
- The film's casting is one of its strongest assets. Halle Bailey is a revelation as Ariel, and she is supported by a strong cast that includes Jonah Hauer-King, Javier Bardem, Melissa McCarthy, Awkwafina, Jacob Tremblay, and Daveed Diggs.
- The film's music is also a highlight. The songs from the animated film, such as "Under the Sea" and "Part of Your World," are all here, and they are performed beautifully by the cast. The film also features a few new songs, which are all catchy and well-written.
- The film's visuals are stunning. The underwater scenes are particularly beautiful, and the film's use of CGI is impressive. The film also features some great special effects, such as the scene where Ursula transforms into a giant sea monster.
Here are some criticisms of the film:
- The film is a bit too faithful to the animated film, and it doesn't really add anything new to the story.
- The film's pacing is a bit slow at times, and it can be a bit predictable.
- The film's villain, Ursula, is not as menacing as she was in the animated film.
Overall, The Little Mermaid is a faithful and enjoyable live-action adaptation of the beloved animated film. The film has a strong cast, great music, and stunning visuals. It is a must-see for any fan of the original film or anyone who loves a good musical fantasy.
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