Diving into ‘The Little Mermaid’ (2023)

By: Esmeralda Gonzalez

Despite Disney’s overwhelming live-action remakes that have come out in the past decade, The Little Mermaid (2023) does not disappoint. Making 117.5 million at the U.S. box office opening weekend, the film is still a hit amongst fans of all ages. Disregarding the controversy surrounding the film's announcement, the success of the movie is no shocker. 

Photo: Disney

Halle Bailey (Ariel) captivates the audience in her first major role with her beauty and talent. Her voice wonderfully captures the siren song and leaves you as starstruck as Prince Eric. As she embarks on her journey for independence, it is difficult to not plunge into her optimism along with her. This film will leave you rooting for Ariel and her strive to get out of the deep waters as her father wants. 

Yet, there are some things worth picking at. The CGI was very cringe-worthy at moments, disfiguring the faces of the stars on the big screen as they were engulfed in the sea. The new, added songs from the original film, conducted by Lin-Manuel Miranda were rather unnecessary and contrasting with the feel of the rest of the film. The color grading could have been better and brighter like the original, but I respect the realistic touch they were going for. 

Although some aspects from the original were missing, the movie is still a must see. Overall, for a kid’s movie, it was entertaining and made me feel like a child again—as a Disney movie should. Expect to sing along with your favorite childhood classics and dive into the sea with The Little Mermaid (2023).

Rating: 3/5