Fans continue to argue passionately about Disney’s live-action remakes, even though some are skeptical of the films’ merits. The talented Halle Bailey as Ariel in the upcoming live-action adaptation of The Little Mermaid has once again stoked controversy with the release of the film’s trailer.
Others staunchly defend their position, saying race has nothing to do with it, while others insist the criticism of Bailey’s casting stems from racism. In the midst of this uproar, it’s reasonable to question whether or not these remakes are, as some have claimed, “nothing more than CGI-heavy cash grabs.”
The Obsession With Ariel’s Color
The portrayal of Ariel in The Little Mermaid is at the center of the debate surrounding the film. Ariel is the youngest daughter of King Triton and a mermaid in the original animated film and the Hans Christian Andersen source material.
As her story progresses, she falls in love with Prince Eric, makes a deal with the evil sea witch Ursula, and embarks on a perilous journey to the world above the waves. However, Ariel’s race is never specified in the book.
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The animated film’s portrayal of her as a fiery-haired heroine has left a lasting impression on many viewers. As a result, people had high hopes when Disney announced a live-action remake. However, some viewers were offended by the decision to cast African-American actress Halle Bailey as Ariel because they felt the character should be white in keeping with the animated film’s portrayal.
There is a clear divide of opinion with Halle Bailey’s interpretation of Ariel. Some have voiced disapproval of the casting choice, arguing that the role of Ariel should have gone to a white actress out of respect for the original animated film. They claim that changing the protagonist’s race is unnecessary and detrimental to the story.
Fans who defended Halle Bailey’s decision to cast her as Ariel numbered in the thousands. Many people are happy that Disney includes princesses from different backgrounds in its recent films. Internet users have been effusive in their praise of Bailey, saying they have no doubt she will perform as outstanding Ariel.
Fans Are Disappointed With Disney’s Use Of CGI
The live-action adaptation of Disney’s The Little Mermaid is currently in theatres. Due to the film’s 1989 predecessor’s legendary status, audiences had lofty hopes for this remake. It has been the subject of much discussion ever since the film’s announcement as to whether or not it should be made and whether or not it will be any good.
Regardless of the movie’s final outcome, trolls are hell-bent on not watching The Little Mermaid because of their opinions on how poorly Disney has executed CGI. These trolls have also taken to Twitter to make comparisons to previous Disney Live-action movies, including Aladdin.
For the record, the reason I will not be watching The Little Mermaid is not racism or a creepy fixation on a cartoon ginger, it’s because the Disney live action remakes are consistently soulless CGI-laden cash grabs straight from the bloody colon of hell 😀 pic.twitter.com/4WHNJ9KX1g
— Cinema Strikes Back (@cinema_strikes) May 25, 2023
The last one I watched was maybe Mulan, which was a complete waste of time other than the pleasure of confirming that Jet Li is still alive.
— Cinema Strikes Back (@cinema_strikes) May 25, 2023
I am also not watching the movie. Animation is something dear to me and I know animation goes into CGI but if something had life and soul as an animation, it doesn’t make sense for the quality of it to be sacrificed for a live action. Animation is a storytelling device as well.
— DonoftheDusk (@DonoftheDusk) May 26, 2023
That’s how i felt about the direct to video sequels to all these movies and everyone seems to love them.
— Hugo R. (@harosa) May 25, 2023
I think that description fits maybe one of the remakes, most of the rest are just kinda “ehh” to me.
— C.M. Waters, Film Enthusiast (@CMWaters789) May 25, 2023
This discussion has gained prominence since Disney began promoting the film with trailers. Fans have only seen glimpses of the finished film here and there over the past few months. Ariel and the other Merpeople are the only characters we have seen in their entirety before today.
With The Little Mermaid currently standing at 68% Rotten Tomatoes rating, Disney has a lot to work on towards making their fans happy with their next Live-action movie.
Source: Twitter
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