The New Little Mermaid
Exploring people’s opinions of the new Ariel
By Onielia Wilson, Assistant Editor
After the trailer release on Sept. 9, 2022, people shared mixed feelings about Halle Bailey playing Ariel in the live-action rendition of “The Little Mermaid.”
In the original animated film from 1989, princess Ariel is a white mermaid. All subsequent representations of her resembled the original. That is, until the new trailer showcased Halle Bailey, a black woman, starring in the role.
Many people were displeased with the new Ariel not looking like the original version. #NotMyAriel trended on social media as a result, with some people expressing their dislike by bullying and disrespecting the actress.
One individual went as far as editing the film’s trailer and transforming Bailey into a white woman. They also stated they are willing to do the same for the whole movie.
“I think that the new Ariel should have been white. I don’t have a problem with Halle Bailey, but they should have chosen someone who physically matched the original character,” said Shane, a freshman at Lynn University. “I think they should have chosen someone else.”
Bailey received the role because of her sheer talent. Several industry professionals said that her acting and singing are unique and that she embodies Ariel’s character.
“She is just trying to showcase her talent,” said Lexie, a Lynn student. “I think the negative remarks about Halle are disrespectful and disgusting. People don’t know how to react when someone unique is in a film like this because they are not used to seeing this type of representation.”
According to Bailey, the actress was obsessed with princess Ariel from a young age. She auditioned for the role because she believed it would be inspiring for young black girls to see someone who looks like them in the role of a princess.
There are already several videos of young black girls reacting happily to seeing Bailey play princess Ariel in the trailer.
“I think that after watching this movie, young black girls will feel more powerful and more confident going out into society,” said Vee, a freshman at Lynn.
Despite the negative remarks, there has been a wave of positive responses.
Many people are in awe of the snippet they received of Bailey’s talent and are anticipating the movie’s release, which is slated for May 2023.
Regardless of whether or not people agree with this representation of Ariel, Bailey is and the star of the film.
