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Dive into Disney's New The Little Mermaid

A Dazzling Underwater Adventure

By Emily Papa, Macaroni KID Pittsburgh West Publisher May 25, 2023

Disney's timeless tale of The Little Mermaid has resurfaced on the silver screen, inviting audiences of all ages to once again journey beneath the waves into a world of enchantment and self-discovery. As someone who grew up watching the original, I was eager to catch this new adaptation on the big screen. Let me tell you, it blew my mind! With its diverse cast, stunning visuals, and catchy tunes, this movie is an absolute must-see. Let's dive right in and get you all excited to experience this enchanting tale in theaters!

From the very beginning, it becomes evident that this rendition of The Little Mermaid is committed to embracing diversity and promoting cultural expansion. It celebrates the importance of inclusion, allowing a wider range of voices and perspectives to shine. By seamlessly incorporating diverse characters and themes into the narrative, the film emphasizes the beauty of our differences and the importance of unity. This movie isn't just for one type of audience—it's for everyone, no matter where you come from!

The cast of The Little Mermaid is something else! Halle Bailey flawlessly pulls off the lead role of Ariel, captivating the audience with her mermaid gift siren song. Melissa McCarthy owned the underworld with her performance of Ursula the sea witch. Fully animated characters such as Flounder, played by Jacob Tremblay, and Sebastian, played by Daveed Diggs, were an absolute delight, but it was everyone's favorite squeaky seagull Scuttle, played by Awkwafina, that brought some of the most delightful laughs. The whole ensemble will make you fall head over heels (or tails) for this underwater crew.

The film's visual effects are nothing short of mesmerizing, transporting viewers to an ethereal underwater realm brimming with vibrant colors, shimmering sea creatures, and breathtaking landscapes. The meticulous attention to detail in creating the underwater scenes is truly commendable (just how DO they keep their hair floating the whole time?), as the characters glide gracefully through a world that feels as tangible and immersive as the ocean itself. The seamless integration of CGI with live-action elements ensures that the magic never falters, and every frame is a testament to the incredible craftsmanship and creativity involved in its making.

I dare you to make it through without bursting out in song—the film's soundtrack will have you tapping your toes and humming along to both classic and fresh tunes as Scuttle croons about the Scuttlebutt. You'll be transported by the beloved melodies of the original songs, such as "Part of Your World" and the irresistible "Under the Sea." But hold onto your seaweed, because the film introduces four new musical compositions that seamlessly blend with the cherished favorites. These additions give the story a renewed sense of wonder and deepen the emotional connection we have with the characters.

Now that you've caught the scuttlebutt, it's time to make a splash of your own! Grab your loved ones, young and old, and swim your way to the nearest theater for an unforgettable cinematic experience. Witness the magic of The Little Mermaid unfold before your eyes and revel in the enchanting underworld created with meticulous detail. With its captivating performances, mesmerizing visuals, and a soundtrack that will make your heart sing, this film is a must-see for audiences of all ages.