'The Little Mermaid' review: The Under the Sea Journey of Halle Bailey

Cinematography by: Dion Beebe

Forgive me for taking so long to go watch Disney's live action-'The Little Mermaid'. The undersea journey features a mesmerizing visual extravaganza enhanced by Halle Bailey's incredible performance as Ariel. Although the story and characters in this live-action adaptation of "The Little Mermaid" originally written by Hans Christian Anderson are expanded in crucial ways, it retains the essential elements that audiences enjoyed about the 1989 original which I loved. The story of a mermaid who sets out on a life-changing journey to discover humanity and find true love stirs her curiosity in life outside of her sea of origin. Ariel is a curious and disobedient teenage girl who essentially transitions from being a king's daughter to a prince's wife.

Seeing this in 3D was a treat! This live-action adaptation is superbly done giving that the film's primary flaw is its visual effects. The underwater action frequently appears flat and manufactured in a way that is distant. Not including the "Under the Sea" performance with all the radiant colorful animals of the sea and the choreography capturing sea life, that is delightful. However, it falls short of fully capturing the sensation of being underwater. I will say it was a bit longer than the original so it may be a hassle for parents with little ones sitting still in the theatre. The live-action scenario is particularly challenging for Flounder, played by Jacob Tremblay, especially when we see him above water. However, Dion Beebe and Rob Marshall beautifully preserved the quiet moments of Ariel emerging toward or leaving the sun at the conclusion and opening of each of Ariel's songs.

This Ariel is different from the Ariel I grew up with though, she has more depth and complexity and Halle more than anything fits this role. Growing up I didn't have much representation on screen when it came to Disney princesses, until 'Princess and the Frog' was released. But deep inside me I always wanted to be a little mermaid, during this movie I teared up a few times remembering my favorite songs and plot points.They even included specific lines of speech from the original are given new life by her. Halle's voice is truly out of this world. She is expressive, vivacious, and utterly likable, with a blend of girlish charm and womanly edge.

The supporting actors are something to talk about as well Melissa McCarthy portrayed Ursula fairly well while still being her humors self. At this point, it is imperative to applaud Colleen Atwood for creating the outstanding costumes worn by Ursula, all of the mermaids, King Triton (Javier Bardem), and every cast member in The Little Mermaid. As always, Daveed Diggs is excellent in his role as Sebastian. When 'The Scuttlebutt' Came on I thought for a second I was watching 'Hamilton' and knew Lin-Manual Miranda had to be apart of this creative project.This song in particular was surprising to hear.

Overall, my fondness for the 1989 Little Mermaid, a film I know by heart, is at an all-time high right now. This live-action adaptation was a fun getaway and a wonderful way to relive my youth. Halle Bailey will continue to be #MyLittleMermaid.

Director Rob Marshall

Writers David Magee, John Musker

Stars Halle Bailey, Jonah Hauer-King, Melissa McCarthy, Javier Bardem, Noma Dumezweni

Rating PG

Running Time 2h 15m

Genres Adventure, Family, Fantasy, Musical, Romance

Watch the trailer here