The Little Mermaid

Disney's live-action remake of 'The Little Mermaid' attempts to breathe new life into a beloved classic, but it struggles to find its own identity. While there are enjoyable moments, the film ultimately falters under the weight of nostalgia and overblown expectations.

Ariel's Dangerous Deal

In 'The Little Mermaid', Ariel, portrayed by Halle Bailey, is the rebellious youngest daughter of King Triton. Her fascination with the human world leads her to fall for Prince Eric, played by Jonah Hauer-King. Defying her father's wishes, she strikes a perilous deal with Ursula, the villainous sea witch, voiced by Melissa McCarthy, to trade her voice for a chance to experience life on land. As Ariel navigates her new world, the stakes rise, placing her life and her father's crown in jeopardy. The film follows this familiar fairy tale trajectory, albeit with some modern twists that feel more like mandatory updates rather than meaningful changes.

Talent with Mixed Impact

Halle Bailey shines as Ariel, bringing youthful energy and a lovely voice to the role. However, Jonah Hauer-King's Prince Eric feels underwritten, lacking the depth and charisma that could make his character compelling. Melissa McCarthy’s Ursula is delightfully mischievous, but at times, her performance teeters on the edge of over-the-top. Javier Bardem as King Triton has moments of gravitas, but his character often feels like a placeholder, not fully fleshed out. Supporting characters like Sebastian, voiced by Daveed Diggs, add some comic relief but don't leave a lasting impression. Overall, while the cast has potential, many characters remain frustratingly one-dimensional.

Colorful Yet Cluttered

Rob Marshall’s direction brings some visual flair to the underwater world of 'The Little Mermaid,' with vibrant colors and stunning CGI effects. However, the pacing feels uneven; the film can drag in parts, especially during song sequences that don't always hit the mark. The underwater scenes are visually impressive, but the film struggles with the transition to land, sometimes losing the enchanting feel of the original animation. The choreography during musical numbers feels forced and lacks the spontaneity that would energize the film. Ultimately, while there are some fantastic visuals, they don’t compensate for the lackluster pacing.

Nostalgia Meets Frustration

Watching 'The Little Mermaid' evokes a mix of nostalgia and frustration. There are moments of genuine charm, particularly during key songs that audiences will recognize. However, the film sometimes feels bloated, with long stretches that lack emotional engagement. The stakes never seem high enough, and more than once, I found my attention drifting. The emotional beats, crucial to the story, often feel rushed or glossed over, undermining potential impactful moments. The film introduces some new elements, but they don't quite land as powerfully as intended, leaving a bittersweet taste.