'The Little Mermaid' emerges as Disney's most anticipated cinematic spectacle of 2023.
Drawing inspiration from the 1989 animated masterpiece, Disney embarks on a journey to retell the beloved narrative with a stellar cast and cutting-edge technology. This live-action adaptation is part of Disney's endeavor to revitalize renowned animated franchises worldwide.
Based on Hans Christian Andersen's timeless fairy tale from 1837, the original storyline revolves around a young mermaid named Ariel. Enamored by the human world, Ariel falls in love with the dashing Prince Eric after rescuing him from a shipwreck. Seeking the aid of the sea witch Ursula to be with Eric, Ariel unwittingly falls into Ursula's sinister trap, trading her voice for a pair of legs to walk on land with the prince.
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The role of Ariel is entrusted to actress Halle Bailey, a decision met with early awareness and opposition from fans due to Bailey's departure from the traditional animated portrayal. Unlike other Disney princesses like Cinderella, Belle, and Mulan in their live-action adaptations, Bailey's interpretation deviates significantly from the original animated depiction.
Joining Bailey as Ariel is British actor Jonah Hauer-King, cast in the role of Prince Eric. The ensemble also features Melissa McCarthy as Ursula, Awkwafina as Scuttle, Jacob Tremblay as Flounder, Javier Bardem as King Triton, Daveed Diggs as Sebastian, and Noma Dumezweni in an entirely new role.
Rob Marshall helms the directorial duties for the film, having previously collaborated with Disney on the adaptation of Stephen Sondheim's 'Into the Woods.' The screenplay is penned by David Magee and Jane Goldman. Additionally, the production is led by Marshall, DeLuca, Marc Platt, and Lin-Manuel Miranda.
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'The Little Mermaid' holds the promise of being one of Disney's most anticipated projects of 2023. The studio demonstrates boldness and innovation in breaking racial stereotypes in Hollywood by introducing its first Black mermaid on the big screen. Specifically, Halle Bailey portrays a mermaid with brown skin and the distinctive braided hairstyle common among many African American girls. Disney's choice has ignited debate over the past two years.
Recently, the film premiered early at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, California, attended by critics and celebrities such as Emily Blunt and John Krasinski, Heidi Klum, and Matt Damon. Notably, actress Halle Bailey - Disney's first Black mermaid in history - has received numerous accolades for her performance and vocal talent.
Film critic John Nguyen of Nerd Reactor expressed considerable surprise at Disney's meticulous investment in this rendition of 'The Little Mermaid.' He even asserted that it is Disney's best live-action film to date. Additionally, he emphasized the 'extraordinary' singing voice of lead actress Halle Bailey.
The film is slated for an official release in Vietnam on May 26th.