Robert Bowen

Way to go Disney!!! An amazing remake tale of 1989 "The Little Mermaid" that captivated the hearts of my children when they were kids, and in the hands of the talented Halle Bailey as Ariel, the timeless story receives a stunning revitalization that will leave audiences of all ages spellbound (I was). Bursting with 3-D animation, vibrant colors, breathtaking visuals, and an iconic soundtrack, this new rendition of the classic Disney fairy tale is a triumphant triumph that will make you believe in the power of dreams and the magic of the sea. Halle's portrayal of Ariel is nothing short of extraordinary despite all the negative backlash because she's "different" from the mythological, cartoon original. Her ethereal beauty and graceful presence breathe life into the iconic mermaid princess, adding a fresh and modern perspective to the character we all know and love. Bailey's voice, both angelic and powerful, effortlessly carries the film's mesmerizing melodies, pulling us deeper into the world beneath the waves. The entire cast and storyline give the viewer a glimpse of how people of all walks (a swims) of life can understand and live with one another. The supporting cast delivers performances that are nothing short of superb. Melissa McCarthy's portrayal of the wicked sea witch Ursula is a revelation, blending equal parts charisma and menace, making her a formidable force to be reckoned with. Javier Bardem's King Triton commands the screen with regal authority and a depth of emotion that tugs at the heartstrings. And let's not forget the delightful duo of Flounder (now a sargent major fish instead of a flounder, but who's counting) and Sebastian (now a crab instead of a lobster), whose comedic timing and infectious energy provide much-needed moments of levity and joy just like the original. But it's the music that truly steals the show. The original songs we know and love are reinvented with a fresh and contemporary twist, and the addition of new, mesmerizing compositions adds depth and emotion to the narrative. From the iconic "Part of Your World" to the show-stopping "Under the Sea," each musical number is an auditory delight, leaving you humming the melodies long after the credits roll. "The Little Mermaid" with Halle Bailey as Ariel is a glorious celebration of diversity and representation. Bailey's casting not only breaks barriers but also sets a new standard for inclusivity in Hollywood. Her performance is a testament to the power of dreams and the importance of embracing our true selves, no matter the circumstances. This movie reminds us that everyone deserves to have their voice heard and their story told. In summary, "The Little Mermaid" is a breathtaking and magical journey that reminds me why we fell in love with the story in the first place. Halle Bailey's portrayal of Ariel is a revelation, the visuals are a feast for the eyes, and the music is a symphony of pure joy. Prepare to be whisked away on a wave of wonder and nostalgia as you dive into this enchanting undersea adventure. I plan on taking my granddaughter to see it for the first time, along with my daughter, just as I took her 9 year-old mom in 1989. Don't miss this extraordinary cinematic experience that will leave you with a renewed sense of wonder and a song in your heart.