It seems it’s more than just characters’ appearances that were changed in Disney’s live-action adaptation of The Little Mermaid. The film’s star Halle Bailey has revealed that Ariel’s motives have been slightly altered so the film would be more “modern” and contemporary.”
The actress spoke more about her upcoming Disney role with Edition Magazine. Bailey revealed that this live-action adaptation would be slightly different, so it would fit more modern social values compared to its animated predecessor from 1989. Bailey revealed that Ariel will not be leaving the ocean “just because of a boy.” Instead, she makes a deal with Ursula because she wants the freedom to be herself and find her own purpose.
The actress praised Disney for making these alterations since women have become more independent in recent years and this upcoming film should depict that.
“I’m really excited for my version of the film because we’ve definitely changed that perspective of just her wanting to leave the ocean for a boy. It’s way bigger than that. It’s about herself, her purpose, her freedom, her life and what she wants.
“As women we are amazing, we are independent, we are modern, we are everything and above. And I’m glad that Disney is updating some of those themes.”
It seems like the live-action adaptation will be taking its cue from the original story, written by Hans Christian Andersen in 1837. In the original tale, the mermaid does not wish for legs for the sake of a boy, but rather to explore life on land. Unfortunately, the mermaid describes her legs as if she’s being “pierced by knives”. The only reason why she goes after a man is so that she could remain human forever.
According to The Little Mermaid‘s director, Rob Marshall, the film took four years to make due to COVID-19 and that the film would be ready by March. The director largely stayed true to his word as the official trailer for the live-action adaptation have both been released, revealing a May release date.
Unfortunately, the film has received a lot of criticism since its announcement. Bailey has received backlash from racist critics due to her skin color, while others are unhappy with how Flounder and Sebastian look in the trailer compared to their animated counterparts. Regardless, multiple celebrities have shown support for the upcoming film and Bailey shared how young children of color were happy to see “someone who looks like them” in an upcoming Disney live-action film.
The Little Mermaid swims its way to theaters on May 26, 2023.
