Disney is at it again, this time bringing the long beloved tale by Hans Christian Anderson to the screen, over thirty years after the original. The story for sure is making waves, but the changes we see really only enhance that tale for a modern audience.
The biggest change is the decision to rely more on the Classic Anderson Fairy tale, which is the legend of the sirens luring sailors. Again subtly darker, but still with a kid friendly audience in mind. The tale also gives Eric more of back story which is intriguing to those that know the beloved tale. It shows Eric as more than just a pretty face that Ariel falls for and the new song, “Wild Uncharted Waters” vividly shows the Prince’s struggle to cast out on his own adventure.
Additionally, there are two other songs, added to the composition, which also throughly enhances the story in ways that one would not realized needed to be enhanced. Ariel’s “For the First Time”. allows us to fully embrace what a mermaid without a voice goes through in a strange new world.
Similarly, The Scuttlebutt puts a smile on audiences as they watch a familiar character in a very pivotal role.
Of course the entire composition wouldn’t be complete with Alan Menken’s legendary music, coupled with the catchy lyrics of “Encanto‘s” Lin Manuel Miranda” who does nothing short of producing Oscar worthy music for sure.
Finally the casting choice is just pure genius, including Halle Bailey who does phenomenal as a awe inspiring Ariel. The powerful notes she hits will have you welling up with such emotion as she does the original Jodie Benson proud. Also speaking of Benson, she does have quick cameo, as she passes the dingelhopper to the next “Ariel”.
Additionally, “Lyle, Lyle Crocodile‘s” Javier Bardum, captures the nature of King Triton perfectly as well as Melissa McCartney who excels at Ursula.
That being said, the New rendition of Disney’s Little Mermaid, will for sure have you laughing, crying and on the edge of your seat reminiscing the past as a new crowd of “Mermaid” fans take on the beloved story. The film came out in theaters May 26, 2023 and is currently playing in a theater near you.