Director Gives Insight Into Disney’s Live Action ‘The Little Mermaid’
In 1989, Disney released one of the most beloved animated films of all time. A live-action remake is set to debut in 2023, and the director is giving fans insight into Disney’s reimagining.
Disney’s Live Action The Little Mermaid
Best known for directing the film version of Chicago, Rob Marshall is at the helm of the new movie. Entertainment Weekly reports that he plans to spotlight a much more modern version of Ariel.
He shares, “The character goes back to Hans Christian Andersen from another century, but at the same time, even in 1989, it felt in some ways like a very modern woman, someone who sees her life differently than anyone around her, and goes to find that dream.”
In the animated classic, the tale of a young woman who gives up everything for a man did not sit well with some audiences. But, Marshall ensures its new retelling will push the story’s modernity further, starting with Halle Bailey’s portrayal as Ariel.
Director Gives Insight Into New Film
When speaking about his new take on the character, he references a standout feature of her personality. “No. 1 is her passion — that fire is very important.”
He goes on to share, “She feels displaced and it’s really an epic story of finding your true self. But also there needs to be a great deal of joy. It’s a strange combination of innocence and wisdom, and a great deal of soul and heart. She’s very modern in that way.”
The highly anticipated movie, set to hit theaters on May 26, 2023, will feature live-action and CG images of nostalgic characters from the original. Some recognizable names comprise the cast, getting us excited for the new film!
Jonah Hauer-King plays Prince Eric, Melissa McCarthy is Ursula, and Javier Barden portrays King Triton. In addition, Daveed Diggs plays Sebastian, Jacob Tremblay is Flounder, and Awkwafina portrays Scuttle.
On top of the modern twist, fans will notice some changes to the story. Ariel will exhibit no fear when it comes to the human world.
New music will be featured, along with the original “Part of Your World,” beloved by audiences. There is so much to look forward to when it comes to Disney’s live-action The Little Mermaid; we can’t wait until the movie debuts next year!