The Little Mermaid (2023) is a live-action musical fantasy film directed by Rob Marshall and reimagines the beloved Disney classic for a new generation. Dive into an enchanting underwater world and follow Ariel's journey to fulfill her dreams, with stunning visuals and captivating performances.

Plot: Ariel, a mermaid princess with a fiery spirit and a love for human music, dreams of exploring the world beyond the ocean. Driven by her curiosity and yearning for adventure, she makes a deal with the cunning sea witch Ursula, trading her voice for legs to walk on land. Ariel embarks on a perilous journey to win the heart of Prince Eric and break the witch's curse before time runs out.

Cast:

• Halle Bailey as Ariel
• Melissa McCarthy as Ursula
• Javier Bardem as King Triton
• Jonah Hauer-King as Prince Eric
• Daveed Diggs as Sebastian
• Awkwafina as Scuttle
• Jacob Tremblay as Flounder
• Noma Dumezweni as Grizelda

Director: Rob Marshall

Worldwide business: The Little Mermaid has grossed over $423 million worldwide as of December 13, 2023, performing well at the box office despite mixed reviews.

IMDb rating: 6.1/10 based on over 58,000 ratings, with audiences expressing appreciation for the visuals, music, and Bailey's performance, while some found the film lacking the magic of the original animation.

Most interesting off-screen fact: Halle Bailey's casting as Ariel sparked controversy and discussions about representation in Disney films. Despite the backlash, she delivered a powerful and heartfelt performance, inspiring young girls of color to see themselves reflected in the iconic princess.

Overall, The Little Mermaid offers a visually stunning and updated take on the classic story, with memorable performances and a splash of nostalgia. While it may not be a perfect adaptation for everyone, it's a worthwhile experience for fans of the original and newcomers alike.