The Little Mermaid’s Color: A Positive Step in Inclusion

In recent discussions, there has been a lot of debate around Disney’s decision to recast the character of Ariel in the live-action adaptation of The Little Mermaid. As a fan of the character and the original cartoon, some opinions were received with mixed emotions. However, the new twist brings a unique perspective that supports the message of inclusion and diversity.

Initial Reactions and Personal Opinions

Reactions to Disney’s decision reveal a range of sentiments, from skepticism to full support. Initially, the recasting drew mixed feelings, especially among those familiar with the original character’s iconic red hair. My niece and students, however, have taken a different view. They are excited about seeing a darker version of Ariel, which, in my opinion, speaks volumes about the appeal of representation and diversity.

My niece and my students love her. That’s good enough for me. Why on earth would a middle-aged man have strong opinions about who’s cast in a Disney Princess movie? That would be embarrassing...

Opinions on the Recasting

My personal stance on the recasting of the character is that it represents an overreach. Changing almost everything about Ariel’s appearance feels like a betrayal. While inclusion and diversity are important, the original character, with her iconic red hair, has a certain charm that should be maintained. It would have been better to create an entirely new storyline with an African-American character rather than altering an existing iconic figure.

I don’t find a problem with it. Ariel is a mermaid. Mermaids can be white, black, Asian, Hispanic, and pink for all I care. Halle Bailey is an amazing actress and it's not her fault the director wanted her to play the role of Ariel. If it's such a problem that the Little Mermaid is black, don't watch it. Instead of going online and complaining, just don’t watch it and save everyone the heartache.

Others have expressed a more positive view, indicating an excitement for the new version. The trailers, which I began watching in April, gave me a lot to look forward to. Halle Bailey’s performance as Ariel is enthusiastic, and the trailer previews show a character with the same curious, positive, and adventurous spirit as the original. The opening scenes, with the shipwreck and Ariel saving the prince, are excellently executed and true to how the story should unfold.

Artistic Intent and Criticism

The new movie’s emphasis on realism over cartoonish elements has also been criticized. Critics point out that the fish and the crab do not look like the cute cartoon characters but instead look like real fish and crabs. This shift from the fantastical to the realistic serves a different artistic intent, focusing on the narrative’s authenticity and the emotional connections viewers can make with the characters and their actions. The trailers showcase the cleverness and wit of these characters through their voices, lines, and movements.

This living creatures not cartoons concept is in keeping with the new movie, and their cleverness and wit can still come through the voices and the lines and the way the characters move.

The Far-Reaching Implications

The new recasting of Ariel is not just about race but about challenging long-held perceptions and embracing diverse representations in media. Critics have argued that this move contradicts the original story’s emphasis on a purely European reading audience. However, the point of the Andersen version is that the mermaid is beautiful, feminine, attractive, and young—a trait that transcends race and ethnicity.

It is certainly not required to be white to be beautiful, feminine, attractive, and young in a movie intended for all races worldwide and not just for a European reading audience.

The success of this new adaptation, if based on the trailers, may heavily rely on the artistry and execution of the film. While early reactions reveal a mix of opinions, many, including myself, have embraced the prospect of seeing a new and diverse version of the beloved character. It feels like a moment to celebrate, not just a change in appearance but a step towards greater inclusion and diversity in storytelling.

Conclusion

The Little Mermaid’s new adaptation, with Halle Bailey playing Ariel, represents a significant and welcome step in the journey of inclusion and representation. While opinions may vary, the positive reception to this new take on the story highlights the importance of respecting and celebrating diversity in our media. Whether you love it or not, it is an exciting time for fans of the original and a hopeful sign for future representations in Disney films.