Release of D23 Expo from The little MermaidThe trailer for has fans everywhere excited for Disney’s upcoming live-action movie. Over the years, the studio has produced several live-action remakes and adaptations of beloved stories, and this time it’s possible to elevate the classic mermaid tale and set it apart from its predecessors.
Arriving next year in May, The little Mermaid will star Halle Bailey as Ariel, the mermaid princess who gave up her life in the ocean 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 production, and the musical fantasy film will be produced by Marc Platt and Lin-Manuel Miranda. Original composer Alan Menken will also contribute four new songs in collaboration with Miranda.
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Diversity and Inclusiveness in The Little Mermaid
Recently, Disney adaptations of well-known fairy tale stories have underperformed both at the box office and in the eyes of critics. The last Pinocchio the film did not please the public, 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’s no secret that Bailey’s casting has created a lot of buzz on social media simply because audiences have the idea that Ariel, as a character, is supposed to be white.
Bailey as one of Disney’s most iconic princesses is a powerful move from the studio, not only because it breaks racial stereotypes, but also creates a lasting impact on young audiences (which is, indeed, the target audience of the film). With this in mind, Disney exemplifies cultural diversity and inclusivity among its cast and audience. Most of the criticism leveled at the franchise is purely discriminatory in nature, not about the movie. in itself.
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Fresh tunes and classic songs
Otherwise, The little Mermaid gets fresh new soundtracks courtesy of multi-award winning composer Lin-Manuel Miranda. He has shown exceptional skill in songwriting based on his previous work on Moana and Encanto, all of which turned out to be chart-topping hits. Disney soundtracks always leave a lasting effect on listeners, and we really can’t wait to hear more catchy, catchy tunes when the movie comes out!
Bailey’s musical training also gave her the edge over others who auditioned for the role. She’s no newcomer to the industry, but knowing this will be her starring role brings freshness and youthfulness to the film – essentially what Ariel is aiming for as a character.
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