"The Little Mermaid" (2023) breathes new life into the beloved 1989 Disney classic, exploring the story of a rebellious mermaid, Ariel, who yearns to discover life beyond the ocean. Portrayed by the talented Halle Bailey, Ariel is reimagined as a more adventurous and independent character, driven by a desire to take control of her own destiny.
The film's narrative expands beyond Ariel's pursuit for love, emphasizing her longing for exploration and personal freedom. In a daring move, Ariel strikes a deal with the sea witch Ursula, played by Melissa McCarthy, to become human for a limited time. As the story unfolds, the character dynamics between Ariel (Halle Bailey) and Prince Eric (Jonah Hauer-King) are given a refreshing revamp. Both characters share a common desire for a life beyond their predetermined paths, creating a deep connection between them.
The movie's standout feature is its inclusion of new songs composed by Alan Menken, Howard Ashman, and Lin-Manuel Miranda. These additional songs combined with the original soundtrack. Combined with the visuals , contribute to the film's enchantment.
Halle Bailey's performance is truly exceptional, skillfully capturing Ariel's emotions through her singing, expressions, and even non-verbal moments. Her rendition of "Part Of Your World," the title song for "The Little Mermaid," was executed beautifully; her voice filled the theater like ocean waves, conveying the pain, suffering, and agony that her character experiences which was breathtaking beauty. Her voice stands out as one of the most satisfying elements of the film, embodying the essence of a true sea siren.
Melissa McCarthy demonstrates her versatility as an actress, delivering a memorable portrayal of the Ursula the sea witch.
One of the film's best moments comes from Javier Bardem who portrays King Triton. His realization of the role he played in restricting Ariel's freedom leads to a powerful message: "You shouldn't have had to give up your voice to be heard." This statement captures the movie's new theme of self-discovery and empowerment, transcending the simple narrative of a girl infatuated with a boy.
Halle Bailey's "The Little Mermaid" not only captures the mythical elements of the original cartoon but also adds depth with a modern revamp.
The film's updated look, feel, and character dynamics create a more satisfying experience, making it a worthy addition to the timeless tale of Ariel's journey.