Disney’s animatedThe Little Mermaid, which was released in 1989, is easily considered one of the studio’s most iconic films, thanks to its surprisingly relatable characters, iconic villain, and music that has stood the test of time. Disney is aiming to recreate that magic with a live-action adaptation set to arrive in 2023 withHalle Baileyplaying the titular character. Now, we have our first look at the highly anticipated film with a new trailer.
The newly released trailer gives us our first look at Bailey’s Ariel, the film’s mermaid princess who is fascinated by the human world. The role was originally voiced byJodi Bensonin the 1989 film. The new trailer highlights Bailey singing the film’s most iconic song, “Part of Your World,” and putting her own, unique spin on it. While we don’t see much else of the film, just her watery world, it looks to be an accurate echo of the animated film’s energy.
Disney’s live action remakes have largely been faithful to their animated counterparts, setting precedent for what to expect from the upcoming adaptation. However, this trailer hints at Disney putting a contemporary spin on the classic story to bring the film to modern audiences. The movie includingnew musical numberscertainly points to that.
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Besides Bailey,The Little Mermaidwill also starJonah Hauer-Kingas Prince Eric, Ariel’s love interest,Javier Bardemas King Triton, Ariel’s father,Jude Akuwudikeas Grimsby, Prince Eric’s trusted butler, andMelissa McCarthyas Ursula, a sea witch who tricks Ariel and is the film’s villain.Lorena AndreaandKajsa Mohammarhave also been cast as Perla and Karina respectively, new characters created for the film.
In addition,Daveed Diggsis set to voice the crab Sebastian,Jacob Tremblaywill voice Flounder, andAwkwafinawill voice Scuttle.Simone Ashley, Jessica Alexander, Noma Dumezwani, Russell Balogh, Emily CoatesandAdrian Christopher,round off the cast in currently undisclosed roles.
The Little Mermaidwill be directed byRob Marshallwho is known for directingChicago, Mary Poppins Returns, Into the Woods, Memoirs of a Geisha,andPirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.The original was directed byJohn MuskerandRon Clements, who also co-wrote the film. Marshall’s previous experience with Disney and musicals is certainly worthy of confidence in the upcoming film.Jane GoldmanandDavid Mageepenned the script of the live-action adaptation, reuniting Magee and Marshall who previously worked together onMary Poppins Returns.
2023’sThe Little Mermaidis shaping up to be an exciting effort with a talented cast in front and behind the camera. The new look at the film achieves its purpose of stirring excitement in the upcoming film. The movie is currently set to be released on August 04, 2025. Check out the new trailer below:
