D23 Expo’s release of The Little Mermaid’s teaser trailer hyped fans all over the world for the upcoming Disney live-action movie. Over the years, the studio has produced several remakes and live adaptations of beloved stories, and this time, it is possible to elevate the classic mermaid tale and set it apart from its predecessors.
Arriving next year in May, The Little Mermaid will feature Halle Bailey as Ariel, the mermaid princess who gave up her ocean life to be with the man of her dreams. Alongside Bailey are Melissa McCarthy as the ever-badass Ursula, Daveed Diggs as the crab Sebastian, Jacob Tremblay as Flounder, and the iconic Awkwafina as Scuttle.
Rob Marshall will oversee the production and the musical fantasy film will be produced by Marc Platt and Lin-Manuel Miranda. The original composer, Alan Menken, will also contribute new four songs in collaboration with Miranda.
Diversity And Inclusivity In The Little Mermaid
Recently, Disney’s adaptations of well-known fairytale stories have underperformed both at the box office and in the critics’ eyes. The latest Pinocchio movie did not sit well with the audience, and The Little Mermaid could avoid such misfortune with several advantages.
The Walt Disney Company has been very enthusiastic about exploring different cultures and including diverse ethnicities in its cast. It is no secret that the casting of Bailey created a lot of buzz on social media simply because the audience has a notion that Ariel, as a character, is supposed to be white.
Bailey starring as one of the most iconic Disney princesses is a power move from the studio, not only because it shatters race stereotypes but also creates a long-lasting impact on young audiences (who are, indeed, the target audience of the film). With this in mind, Disney sets an example of cultural diversity and inclusivity amongst its cast and audiences. Most of the criticisms thrown against the franchise are purely discriminatory in nature, and not about the film per se.
Fresh Tunes And Classic Songs
Furthermore, The Little Mermaid gets fresh new soundtracks courtesy of multi-awarded composer Lin-Manuel Miranda. He has exhibited outstanding skill in songwriting based on his previous works on Moana and Encanto, which all proved to be chart-topping hits. Disney’s soundtracks always leave a lasting effect on the listeners, and we seriously cannot wait to hear another eargasmic, catchy tunes when the movie comes out!
Bailey’s musical background also gave her the advantage over others who auditioned for the role. She is not a newcomer to the industry but knowing that this is going to be her breakout role brings freshness and youthfulness to the film – essentially what Ariel as a character aims for.
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