Disney’s 2023 live-action adaptation of The Little Mermaid, directed by Rob Marshall, reimagines the beloved 1989 animated classic with a modern sensibility and a more inclusive cast. Halle Bailey stars as Ariel, a curious and spirited mermaid who dreams of exploring the human world. After rescuing Prince Eric (Jonah Hauer-King) from a shipwreck, Ariel strikes a deal with the sea witch Ursula (Melissa McCarthy) to become human for three days in exchange for her voice. To remain human permanently, she must receive a “true love’s kiss” from Eric within this time frame. The film retains the core narrative of Ariel’s journey but introduces new songs by Alan Menken and Lin-Manuel Miranda, such as “For the First Time” and “Wild Uncharted Waters,” and updates lyrics of classics like “Kiss the Girl” to reflect contemporary values.

This adaptation expands on character backstories and relationships, providing more depth to figures like Prince Eric, who is portrayed as an adopted royal with a yearning for exploration, and Ursula, reimagined as King Triton’s sister. Ariel’s sisters have more prominent roles, and the setting incorporates a vibrant Caribbean-Latin American influence. The film emphasizes Ariel’s agency, showcasing her as an active participant in her destiny. Visually, the movie blends live-action with CGI to create an immersive underwater world. Upon its release, The Little Mermaid received mixed reviews but was praised for Bailey’s performance and its fresh take on the classic tale, grossing over $569 million worldwide.