The Little Mermaid exceeds expectations. Halle Bailey was tremendous and her singing was ethereal. She ate up her scenes. Ariel’s and Eric’s arcs were improved and both delivered emotion and depth. Their chemistry was perfect and believable, especially in one specific scene.
Big daddy Triton was bold, scary, irrational, angry, and too hard on his youngest daughter..until he wasn’t, and then he was concerned, touching, emotional, and a better listener. Ursula was smoldering, barely holding her anger and hatred for Triton. She’s scarier as real person and Melissa nailed it by being understated; less was more and it worked wonderfully.
Sebastian was a scene stealer and, like the cartoon, provided comic relief and parental concern about Ariel’s bad choices. Daveed Diggs was made for the role and he was fantastic. Scuttle was in it, too.
Early weird concerns about muted color and Ariel’s hair were silly. The colors are vibrant and appealing, and demure when the script called for it to be so. And Halle’s hair is on point in water and then absolutely fire on land. Crown Act, come through!
There are a few well done changes from the original Disney cartoon movie, including a few new wonderful songs and slight story changes. They each work marvelously.
Little kids laughed and there are times for real tears. Hearing kids little hands applauding was touching and very cute. This Ariel is their Ariel now, and that is absolutely lovely.
I attended with my older teen daughter and we have pledged to see it again. It’s that good. Seeing with my daughter was extra special since we saw the original when she was little and she’s long been a fan of Ariel’s story.
There were many parents like me in the sold out theatre and there were many tears during certain scenes. The Disney magic was in full effect and Halle’s voice ensured everyone felt — and heard — the fullness of hers and Disney’s magic.
The live-action movie is the best Disney live-action remake of one of their cartoon movies and I cannot recommend it enough.
Dear Dean 