The Little Mermaid (2023) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Directed by Rob Marshall, The Little Mermaid (2023) is a live-action adaptation of Disney’s beloved animated classic. Featuring a fresh take on the timeless tale, this film reinvigorates the enchanting story of Ariel, a young mermaid who dreams of life on land and falls in love with a human prince. With a cast led by Halle Bailey as Ariel, the film promises to captivate both new audiences and fans of the original.
In this review, we’ll explore the plot, character performances, themes, visual style, and critical reception, along with where to stream or rent The Little Mermaid online in the U.S.
Plot Summary: A Timeless Tale of Love and Sacrifice
Set in the underwater kingdom of Atlantica, the story follows Ariel, a curious and adventurous mermaid princess who yearns to explore the human world above. After saving Prince Eric (played by Jonah Hauer-King) from drowning, she becomes infatuated with him and dreams of living on land.
Determined to make her dreams come true, Ariel makes a fateful deal with the sea witch Ursula (played by Melissa McCarthy), trading her voice for legs. As she navigates the complexities of her new life, Ariel faces challenges that test her courage, relationships, and ultimately, her identity. The film beautifully intertwines themes of love, sacrifice, and the importance of being true to oneself.
Cast and Performances: A Standout Ensemble
The performances in The Little Mermaid are a highlight of the film:
- Halle Bailey delivers a mesmerizing portrayal of Ariel, infusing the character with depth, emotion, and a stunning vocal performance. Her rendition of classic songs like “Part of Your World” showcases her talent and brings a fresh energy to the role.
- Jonah Hauer-King as Prince Eric is charming and relatable, bringing warmth to his character’s relationship with Ariel. His interactions with Bailey create a genuine romantic dynamic that resonates with viewers.
- Melissa McCarthy shines as Ursula, delivering a captivating performance filled with menace and charisma. Her take on the iconic villain is both entertaining and chilling, adding depth to the character’s motivations.
- The supporting cast, including Javier Bardem as King Triton and Awkwafina as Scuttle, enhances the film with strong performances that bring the underwater world to life.
Themes: Identity, Love, and Sacrifice
The Little Mermaid explores several key themes:
- Identity and self-discovery: Ariel’s journey reflects the struggles of finding one’s true self, emphasizing the importance of being true to one’s desires and aspirations.
- Love and sacrifice: The film examines the lengths one will go for love, showcasing the sacrifices Ariel makes in her pursuit of happiness.
- Empowerment: The adaptation highlights themes of female empowerment, portraying Ariel as an independent character who actively pursues her dreams, rather than waiting for others to define her fate.
Visual Style: Stunning and Lush
The visual effects of The Little Mermaid are breathtaking, creating an immersive underwater world filled with vibrant colors, intricate designs, and stunning landscapes. The seamless integration of live-action with CGI brings the oceanic realm to life, making it a feast for the eyes.
Rob Marshall’s direction balances the whimsical elements of the story with a sense of realism, ensuring that both the magical and emotional aspects of the narrative resonate with audiences.
Critical Reception: A Fresh Take on a Classic
Upon its release, The Little Mermaid received a mix of reviews, with many praising the performances, particularly Bailey’s, and the film’s visual spectacle. Critics highlighted the successful reimagining of the beloved story, while some pointed out pacing issues and differences from the original. Overall, the film has found favor among fans of the franchise and newcomers alike.
Where to Watch The Little Mermaid Online in the U.S.
If you’re interested in watching The Little Mermaid, here are some platforms in the U.S. where you can find it:
1. Disney+
The Little Mermaid will be available for streaming on Disney+, the home for Disney’s vast catalog of films.
- Subscription Required: Monthly subscription prices start at around $7.99.
- Devices: Available on smart TVs, tablets, smartphones, and gaming consoles.
2. Amazon Prime Video
You may also find The Little Mermaid for rental or purchase on Amazon Prime Video.
- Rental Price: Typically around $3.99
- Purchase Price: Usually approximately $19.99
- Devices: Available on Fire TV, Roku, smart TVs, and mobile devices.
3. Apple TV (iTunes)
Apple TV users can rent or purchase The Little Mermaid in HD.
- Rental Price: Typically around $3.99
- Purchase Price: Usually approximately $19.99
- Devices: Available on iPhones, iPads, Apple TVs, and Macs.
4. Google Play Movies & TV
You can find The Little Mermaid on Google Play Movies for rental or purchase.
- Rental Price: Typically around $3.99
- Purchase Price: Usually approximately $19.99
- Devices: Watch on Android devices, smart TVs, and Chromecast.
5. Vudu
Vudu may offer The Little Mermaid for rental and purchase without a subscription.
- Rental Price: Typically around $3.99
- Purchase Price: Usually approximately $19.99
- Devices: Available on Roku, smart TVs, and gaming consoles.
Conclusion: A Magical Reimagining
The Little Mermaid (2023) is a captivating reimagining of a beloved classic, blending nostalgia with fresh interpretations and stunning visuals. With powerful performances and a timeless story of love and self-discovery, it is a film that resonates with audiences of all ages. For those looking to experience the magic of Ariel’s journey, The Little Mermaid will be available on various streaming and rental platforms in the U.S.
