Watch The Little Mermaid

The Little Mermaid from 2023 is a visually stunning film adaptation of the classic fairytale by Hans Christian Andersen, featuring a diverse and talented cast. Halle Bailey plays the titular character of Ariel, a mermaid princess who longs to live on land and explore the human world. Jonah Hauer-King stars as Prince Eric, a charming and adventurous human prince whom Ariel falls in love with after rescuing him from a shipwreck. Melissa McCarthy delivers a hilarious and memorable performance as Ursula, the sea witch who tricks Ariel into giving up her voice in exchange for legs.

From the opening scene, the movie immerses viewers into a breathtaking underwater world, full of vibrant colors and intricate details. The underwater sequences are seamlessly blended with those on land, showcasing both the beauty and danger of both environments. The music features updated versions of classic songs from the original Disney animated film, as well as new songs written specifically for this adaptation.

Halle Bailey brings a sense of innocence and wonder to her role as Ariel, capturing the character's curiosity and determination to break free from the confines of her underwater home. Her singing voice is powerful and soulful, delivering show-stopping renditions of songs such as "Part of Your World" and "Under the Sea". Jonah Hauer-King is equally impressive as Prince Eric, combining a charming demeanor with a sense of bravery and loyalty. The chemistry between the two leads is palpable, making their love story all the more compelling.

Melissa McCarthy's portrayal of Ursula is a highlight of the film, bringing a sense of humor and whimsy to the character while still maintaining the sense of danger and menace that makes her such a formidable antagonist. Her performance is complemented by stunning visual effects that bring Ursula's tentacles and other sea creature features to life in vivid detail.

One of the most impressive aspects of The Little Mermaid is its commitment to diverse casting. Bailey's casting as Ariel was met with both praise and criticism, but the film's producers stood by their decision to cast a black actress in the role, citing the need for more representation in Hollywood. The film also features an ethnically diverse cast, including British-Indian actor Noma Dumezweni as Ariel's mother, Queen Athena.

Overall, The Little Mermaid is a must-see film for fans of the original animation and newcomers alike. It is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant adaptation that stays true to the heart of the original story while also modernizing certain aspects for a contemporary audience. With its talented cast, memorable music, and breathtaking visuals, it is sure to become a beloved classic in its own right.

The Little Mermaid is a 2023 adventure movie with a runtime of 2 hours and 15 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.2 and a MetaScore of 59.