As a fan of Halle Bailey's performance in the new adaptation of "The Little Mermaid," I found myself conflicted about the overall movie. Bailey's portrayal of Ariel was captivating, with her singing leaving a lasting impression. However, despite her standout performance, the film fell short of my expectations.
One aspect that stood out was the departure from the original storyline. While some changes aimed to modernize the tale, others felt unnecessary and diluted the charm of the beloved classic. The chemistry between Ariel and Eric felt forced and lacked the genuine connection that draws audiences into their romance.
Visually, the movie had its highs and lows. Certain scenes dazzled with their breathtaking beauty, immersing me in a world of underwater wonder. However, there were instances where the visuals seemed dark and murky, detracting from the overall experience. The CGI for characters like Sebastian, Scuttle, and Flounder occasionally missed the mark, veering into unsettling territory rather than endearing animation.
In terms of casting, while Bailey's performance soared, other choices left something to be desired. The voice acting for characters like Sebastian lacked emotion, failing to capture the essence of the original. Additionally, the decision to change Scuttle's gender felt unnecessary and disrupted the familiarity of the beloved characters.
Despite its flaws, "The Little Mermaid" had its moments of charm and nostalgia. Bailey's portrayal of Ariel added depth to the character, offering a fresh perspective on a timeless tale. However, the film's deviations from the original story and inconsistent visuals detracted from the overall enjoyment. While I appreciated Bailey's talents, I went to bed with mixed feelings about the adaptation's success in capturing the magic of the original.
