The Little Mermaid has undoubtedly carved a special place in the hearts of many since its 1989 release. With breathtaking underwater visuals and unforgettable melodies such as “Under the Sea” and “Part of Your World,” the original movie continues to enchant fans worldwide. Fast forward to 2023, Disney has reimagined the classic tale with The New Little Mermaid Movie, pulling viewers back beneath the waves with a contemporary twist. This article will draw comparisons between both versions and provide an overall review rating for the latest film.
Plot:
The New Little Mermaid Movie, following in the footsteps of its predecessor, tells the story of Ariel, a young mermaid princess longing to explore the world above the ocean’s surface. Her father, King Triton, forbids such interaction with humans, causing Ariel to rely on devious sea witch Ursula to achieve her dream. However, the cost of fulfilling Ariel’s wishes proves steep, jeopardizing her relationships with her family, friends, and newfound love, Prince Eric.
Comparing both movies, the 2023 version offers a contemporary twist on this familiar narrative. The updated storyline underscores themes of love, self-discovery, and independence with a modern sensibility. A more in-depth exploration of the characters, both old and new, adds layers and complexity, making for a richer, multi-dimensional experience.
Characters:
No comparison between the two Little Mermaid films would be complete without addressing the fresh takes on beloved characters. The core personalities remain intact, but the new version adds depth and nuance to our understanding of their motivations and desires.
Ariel (Played by Halle Bailey) continues to charm as the protagonist, and her portrayal brings a unique sense of innocence, curiosity, and determination to the role. Additionally, the movie tackles the realistic struggle of identity and self-discovery, adding to Ariel’s character development.
King Triton, voiced with a majestic air by Javier Bardem, portrays a heartfelt conflict between his desire to protect Ariel and allow her autonomy. His relationship with Ariel evolves as he comes to realize that his actions should be guided by love and understanding rather than fear and restrictions.
Prince Eric (Played by Jonah Hauer-King) delivers a powerful performance. In this retelling, he has a more meaningful connection with Ariel, resonating with her love for exploration and intrigue. Their shared passion forms a basis for their relationship, making it more natural and convincing.
The antagonist Ursula, portrayed with malevolent flair by Melissa McCarthy, has also been transformed. While she remains the calculating, power-hungry sea witch, the 2023 version delves into her origin story, responding to the question of why Ursula seeks vengeance against Triton. The additional background adds weight to her actions and intrigues the audience.
Sebastian and Flounder still play their role as Ariel’s best friends, with Daveed Diggs lending his voice to the endearing crustacean, providing humor and wit to lighten the movie’s tone. Jacob Tremblay voices Flounder, enhancing the character’s youthful innocence and genuine affection for Ariel.
Music:
When discussing the Little Mermaid, the music is undoubtedly an essential component that has contributed to its success. Alan Menken, the composer of the original film, has returned to further embellish the 2023 version. Songs like “Under the Sea” and “Part of Your World” have been beautifully reimagined, capturing the spirit of the original while appealing to a contemporary audience.
Satisfyingly, the new film introduces several new songs that augment the existing score. These fresh additions flawlessly blend with established favorites, providing greater emotional significance and insight into the character’s internal journeys.
Visuals and Special Effects:
The New Little Mermaid Movie of 2023 offers an aesthetically stunning dive into the underwater world. The original 1989 animation was iconic for its time, but advancements in technology have granted the latest movie the ability to create a truly immersive experience.
With a combination of lifelike CGI and detailed set designs, the 2023 film takes us on a breathtaking visual journey, capturing the wonders of the ocean’s depths. The vibrant colors and painstakingly crafted underwater scenes induce a sense of awe, amplifying the film’s impact.
So what do we rate it?
The 2023 version of The Little Mermaid proves a worthy successor to the cherished original. The movie beautifully interweaves new and old elements, introducing contemporary themes, characters, and music to a story we thought we knew so well.
The New Little Mermaid Movie is a must-see experience, both for die-hard fans and those new to the world of Ariel and her underwater kingdom. With its captivating blend of time-honored narrative and modern embellishments, the film is set to make a splash in cinema history.
Overall Rating: 8.5/10