Exploring the Cast of The Little Mermaid (2023): A Dive into the Live-Action Remake’s Characters

The live-action remake of Disney’s The Little Mermaid (2023) has generated waves of excitement and anticipation. Bringing iconic characters like Ariel, King Triton, and Ursula to life with real actors, the film has managed to breathe fresh air into a beloved classic. This post takes an in-depth look at the cast of the 2023 adaptation, exploring the actors’ backgrounds, character portrayals, and the film’s impact on the legacy of The Little Mermaid.

Halle Bailey as Ariel

Halle Bailey’s casting as Ariel has been both groundbreaking and pivotal for the Little Mermaid live-action remake. Known for her musical talent and vibrant presence, Bailey brings a unique twist to this classic Disney Princess.

Bailey’s portrayal of Ariel retains the character’s classic traits—her adventurous nature, longing for freedom, and love for music—while adding depth and modern sensibility. Her rendition of “Part of Your World” stands out as a pivotal moment in the Little Mermaid, blending nostalgia with fresh emotion.

Background and Career

Halle Bailey, one-half of the Grammy-nominated musical duo Chloe x Halle, has been making waves in the music industry for years. Her powerful vocals and stage presence caught the attention of Disney, making her an ideal fit for the role of Ariel.

• Musical Achievements: Chloe x Halle has been nominated for multiple Grammy Awards, showcasing their range and talent. Their album Ungodly Hour was a critical success, blending R&B with pop elements.

• Acting Experience: Bailey’s acting career includes roles in the TV series Grown-ish, where she demonstrated her versatility and screen presence.

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Why Halle Bailey Was Chosen as Ariel

Disney’s decision to cast Bailey as Ariel was driven by her musical prowess and ability to embody Ariel’s curiosity and spirit. The choice also aimed to modernize and diversify the representation of Disney Princesses, resonating with a broader audience.

“Halle possesses that rare combination of spirit, heart, youth, innocence, and substance—plus a glorious singing voice—all intrinsic qualities necessary to play this iconic role,” said director Rob Marshall.

Javier Bardem as King Triton

Javier Bardem’s role as King Triton brings gravitas and complexity to the underwater monarch. His performance adds a nuanced portrayal of a father torn between love for his daughter and his responsibilities as a ruler.

In the live-action version, King Triton is portrayed as more than just a strict, overprotective father. The Little Mermaid delves into his motivations, his fear of losing Ariel, and his struggle to balance his duties as a king and a father.

• Father-Daughter Dynamics: The scenes between King Triton and Ariel are emotionally charged, revealing Triton’s vulnerability and deep love for his daughter.

• Character Development: Bardem’s performance captures the journey of a father learning to let go, ultimately allowing Ariel to make her own choices.

Background and Career

Javier Bardem is a celebrated actor with a diverse filmography, including roles in No Country for Old Men, Skyfall, and Eat Pray Love. His ability to play both heroes and villains with equal finesse makes him a compelling choice for King Triton.

• Awards and Accolades: Bardem is an Academy Award-winning actor, recognized for his intense and captivating performances.

• Character Roles: His roles often explore complex emotional landscapes, making him a natural fit for King Triton’s multifaceted character.

Melissa McCarthy as Ursula

Melissa McCarthy’s portrayal of Ursula, the iconic sea witch, adds a blend of humor and menace to the character. Known for her comedic timing, McCarthy transforms Ursula into a villain who is both entertaining and terrifying.

In the live-action remake, Ursula’s backstory is more fleshed out, exploring her motivations and her relationship with King Triton. This gives depth to her character, making her more than just a villain.

• “Poor Unfortunate Souls” Performance: McCarthy’s rendition of this classic song is a standout, combining her vocal talents with theatrical flair.

• Villainous Schemes: The film explores Ursula’s cunning strategies and her desire for power, making her a formidable adversary.

Background and Career

Melissa McCarthy is a versatile actress and comedian, best known for her roles in Bridesmaids, Spy, and The Heat. Her ability to navigate between comedy and drama made her an intriguing choice for Ursula.

• Comedy Roots: McCarthy’s background in comedy allows her to bring a unique charm to Ursula, making the character’s wickedness more nuanced and engaging.

• Dramatic Range: Her dramatic roles, such as in Can You Ever Forgive Me?, demonstrate her capacity to delve into complex, layered characters.

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Jonah Hauer-King as Prince Eric

Jonah Hauer-King steps into the role of Prince Eric, bringing a fresh perspective to the character. His portrayal adds depth and agency to the prince, making him more than just a love interest for Ariel.

In this adaptation, Prince Eric’s backstory is expanded, giving him more depth and complexity. He is portrayed as a young, adventurous ruler struggling with his responsibilities and yearning for freedom, much like Ariel.

• “Wild Uncharted Waters”: A new song added to the live-action film, showcasing Eric’s longing for adventure and his bond with Ariel.

• Chemistry with Ariel: Hauer-King’s chemistry with Bailey is palpable, adding authenticity to their love story.

Jacob Tremblay as Flounder (Voice)

Jacob Tremblay voices Flounder, Ariel’s loyal and anxious best friend. Known for his expressive voice acting, Tremblay brings a sense of innocence and humor to the character.

Challenges of Voice Acting

Voice acting requires conveying a character’s personality without the aid of physical gestures. Tremblay manages to capture Flounder’s nervous energy and loyalty to Ariel, making the character relatable and endearing.

• Character Design: The live-action Flounder has a more realistic fish appearance, a shift from the animated version’s cartoony design.

• Role in the Story: While Flounder’s role is slightly reduced in the live-action film, his bond with Ariel remains central to the story.

Daveed Diggs as Sebastian (Voice)

Daveed Diggs lends his voice to Sebastian, the ever-cautious crab who serves as King Triton’s advisor. His performance brings a fresh, energetic vibe to the beloved character.

• Broadway Success: Diggs’ role as Thomas Jefferson in Hamilton earned him critical acclaim and a Tony Award.
• Diverse Talents: His work spans music, television, and film, showcasing his ability to tackle various artistic mediums.

Diggs’ portrayal of Sebastian blends the character’s cautious nature with a lively, humorous twist. His vocal performance in musical numbers like “Under the Sea” is a highlight, infusing the Little Mermaid with vibrant energy.

Musical Highlights

• “Under the Sea”: Diggs’ rendition of this iconic song captures the joy and exuberance of the original while adding his unique flair.

• “Kiss the Girl”: His performance in this romantic number emphasizes Sebastian’s role as a well-meaning, if overzealous, matchmaker.

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Awkwafina as Scuttle (Voice)

Awkwafina voices Scuttle, reimagined as a female character in the live-action remake. Known for her distinctive voice and comedic timing, she brings a fresh take to the eccentric seagull.

Gender-Swap Adaptation

The decision to reimagine Scuttle as a female character allows for new dynamics and interactions within the story. Awkwafina’s energetic voice work makes Scuttle a standout character, providing comic relief and wisdom in equal measure.

• “The Scuttlebutt”: A new song added for the live-action film, highlighting Scuttle’s humorous and somewhat misguided attempts to help Ariel and Eric.

• Comedic Moments: Awkwafina’s portrayal brings a contemporary, relatable humor to Scuttle’s character, appealing to both children and adults.

Noma Dumezweni as Queen Selina

Noma Dumezweni portrays Queen Selina, a new character created specifically for the live-action adaptation. Her presence adds a regal, authoritative figure to the story’s narrative.

Queen Selina’s character introduces new dynamics to the storyline, adding depth to the royal family and Eric’s backstory. Her character in Little Mermaid is a supportive yet firm mother, guiding Eric through his journey of self-discovery and leadership.

• Mother-Son Relationship: Scenes between Queen Selina and Eric reveal a nurturing yet authoritative side, emphasizing themes of duty and personal growth.

• Influence on the Plot: Queen Selina’s presence adds layers to the story, making Eric’s world and choices more complex and engaging.

Background and Career

Dumezweni is an accomplished stage and screen actress, known for her role as Hermione Granger in the West End and Broadway productions of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.

• Stage Success: Her performance as Hermione won her an Olivier Award, highlighting her talent and versatility.
• Diverse Roles: Dumezweni has appeared in a range of productions, from Shakespearean plays to contemporary dramas.

Art Malik as Grimsby

Art Malik plays Grimsby, Prince Eric’s loyal advisor. His performance adds a layer of wisdom and humor to the character, making Grimsby a beloved figure in the Little Mermaid. Malik is a veteran actor with a career spanning over four decades, known for his roles in The Jewel in the Crown, True Lies, and Homeland.

In the 2023 adaptation, Grimsby’s role is more prominent, serving as both a mentor and a father figure to Prince Eric. His interactions with Eric are both humorous and heartfelt, offering guidance and support.

Performance Highlights

• Mentorship Moments: Grimsby’s advice to Eric, often delivered with a touch of dry wit, provides both comic relief and wisdom.

• Character Dynamics: His relationship with other characters, particularly Queen Selina and Ariel, adds depth to his portrayal.

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Jessica Alexander as Vanessa

Jessica Alexander takes on the role of Vanessa, Ursula’s human alter ego. Her performance as the cunning and deceitful Vanessa adds a thrilling element to the film’s climax. Vanessa’s character is pivotal to Ursula’s scheme to sabotage Ariel’s relationship with Eric. Alexander’s portrayal captures Vanessa’s deceptive charm and malicious intent, making her a memorable antagonist.

• Transformation Scene: The moment Vanessa is revealed as Ursula is a dramatic highlight, showcasing Alexander’s ability to switch between personas.

• Conflict with Ariel: The rivalry between Vanessa and Ariel is intense, culminating in a dramatic showdown.

Background and Career

Alexander is a rising star with a growing body of work, known for her roles in Get Even and Glasshouse. Her ability to play complex, morally ambiguous characters makes her an intriguing choice for Vanessa.

• Career Beginnings: Starting in TV series and indie films, Alexander has quickly made a name for herself with her compelling performances.

• Diverse Roles: Her roles often explore themes of identity and transformation, making her well-suited for Vanessa.

The Sisters

Ariel’s sisters play a more prominent role in the live-action adaptation, each characterized with distinct personalities and appearances. Each sister is portrayed by a different actress, representing various ethnicities and backgrounds, reflecting a more diverse undersea world.

The sisters’ expanded roles provide a richer view of Ariel’s family dynamics and the politics of Triton’s kingdom. Their interactions with Ariel offer insights into her motivations and desires.

• Representation: The diverse casting of Ariel’s sisters emphasizes Disney’s commitment to inclusivity.

• Character Design: The sisters have unique designs, with different hairstyles, colors, and accessories, distinguishing them from one another.

Memorable Scenes

• Family Moments: Scenes featuring Ariel and her sisters highlight their bond and individual personalities.
• Influence on Ariel: Their differing opinions on Ariel’s fascination with the human world create tension and add depth to the narrative.

Jodi Benson as The Market Vendor

Jodi Benson, the original voice of Ariel, makes a heartfelt cameo as a market vendor, paying homage to the 1989 animated film.

Benson is a Disney Legend, best known for her role as Ariel in the original The Little Mermaid. Her voice defined the character for generations of fans.

• Career Highlights: In addition to Ariel, Benson has voiced characters in Toy Story, Enchanted, and Barbie films.
• Cultural Impact: Her portrayal of Ariel set a new standard for Disney Princesses, combining strong-willed independence with a love for adventure.

Significance of the Cameo

Benson’s cameo as a market vendor is a nod to the original film, bridging the gap between the classic and the remake. Her brief appearance is a nostalgic treat for longtime fans.

Fan Reactions

The cameo has been widely praised, with many fans appreciating the respectful acknowledgment of Benson’s contribution to the Little Mermaid legacy.

Visual and Musical Design of the Characters

Costume and Makeup

The live-action remake’s costume and makeup designs pay homage to the original characters while adding realistic details that suit the film’s aesthetic.

• Ariel’s Costume: Ariel’s outfits, particularly her mermaid and human forms, are designed to reflect her adventurous spirit and individuality.

• Ursula’s Look: Melissa McCarthy’s transformation into Ursula includes elaborate makeup and costume designs that highlight the character’s theatrical nature.

Musical Adaptations

The film’s soundtrack includes new songs and updated versions of classics, performed by the talented cast.

• New Songs: Additions like “Wild Uncharted Waters” and “The Scuttlebutt” enhance the narrative and provide character insights.
• Classic Reimaginings: Updated versions of “Part of Your World” and “Under the Sea” stay true to the original while showcasing the cast’s unique talents.

Character Dynamics and Relationships

• Ariel and King Triton: The father-daughter dynamic is central to the story, exploring themes of control, freedom, and understanding.

• Ariel and Eric: Their relationship is more developed in the live-action film, focusing on mutual admiration and shared dreams.

• Sebastian, Flounder, and Scuttle: These characters provide comic relief and support to Ariel, each playing a unique role in her journey.

Character Development

The live-action remake allows for more nuanced character arcs, with expanded backstories and motivations for both protagonists and antagonists.

• Ariel’s Growth: Her journey is one of self-discovery and courage, emphasizing her desire for independence and exploration.

• Eric’s Arc: Eric’s story parallels Ariel’s, focusing on his struggles with royal duties and his yearning for adventure.

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Conclusion

The live-action The Little Mermaid (2023) brings a fresh perspective to a timeless story, with a diverse and talented cast that reimagines these beloved characters for a new generation. From Halle Bailey’s spirited Ariel to Melissa McCarthy’s captivating Ursula, each actor adds depth and nuance to their role, enriching the narrative and enhancing the film’s appeal. This adaptation not only honors the legacy of the original but also sets a new standard for live-action remakes, celebrating the magic of The Little Mermaid in a vibrant, modern context.

FAQs

Why was Halle Bailey chosen as Ariel?
Halle Bailey was chosen for her exceptional vocal talent, charismatic presence, and ability to bring a fresh, modern take to Ariel. Her casting also reflects Disney’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity.

What changes were made to the characters in the live-action version?
The live-action version expands on the characters’ backstories, especially for Prince Eric and King Triton. New characters like Queen Selina are introduced, and existing ones, like Scuttle, are reimagined with fresh perspectives.

Which original cast members appear in the Little Mermaid film?
Jodi Benson, the original voice of Ariel, makes a cameo appearance as a market vendor, paying homage to her iconic role.

How did the new characters impact the storyline?
Characters like Queen Selina add depth to the royal dynamics and Eric’s character arc, while the expanded roles of Ariel’s sisters and Grimsby offer a richer view of the underwater kingdom and human world.

Will there be a sequel or continuation of this adaptation?
As of now, there is no official announcement regarding a sequel. However, the film’s success and expanded storyline leave room for potential future projects.