The Little Mermaid (2025) is a live-action adaptation of Disney’s 1989 animated classic. Directed by Rob Marshall, this version stays true to the spirit of the original while adding fresh elements and expanding the story with more depth and modern sensibilities. It combines cutting-edge CGI with real-world elements to bring the underwater world to life.
The 2023 version follows the same basic plot as the original: Ariel, a curious and adventurous young mermaid, longs to explore the human world. She falls in love with Prince Eric after saving him from a shipwreck, and in order to be with him, Ariel makes a dangerous deal with the sea witch, Ursula. She trades her voice for human legs, but if she doesn’t make Prince Eric fall in love with her within three days, she will lose her soul to Ursula.
What sets this version apart is that it expands on Ariel’s backstory and motivations. The movie delves deeper into her relationship with her father, King Triton, and her dreams of bridging the divide between the human and mermaid worlds. The film also provides more backstory to Prince Eric, making his character more well-rounded with a personal journey of his own.
The 2023 The Little Mermaid received generally positive reviews, especially for Halle Bailey’s portrayal of Ariel, which was praised for its depth and emotional resonance. The visual effects were also lauded, though some critics pointed out that the pacing could have been tighter in certain moments. Ursula, portrayed by Melissa McCarthy, was a bit divisive — while some enjoyed her take on the character, others felt she didn’t quite capture the full essence of the animated version’s villainy. However, the live-action adaptation was seen as a worthy tribute to the original, offering both nostalgia and a new perspective for a new generation.
The movie is part of Disney’s ongoing trend of live-action remakes of its animated classics, and it stands out for its diverse casting, updated music, and expanded storylines.
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