Jodi Benson, who is famously known for voicing the character of Ariel in the original 1989 Disney movie “The Little Mermaid”, praises the adjustments made in the 2023 live-action remake starring Halle Bailey. She recently shared her views on the changes in an interview with People magazine, where she explained why she supports these modifications and how they reflect the current society.
Benson believes that the adjustments in the live-action provide a modern twist and go more in-depth with the characters, “expanding” the story in ways that the original movie didn’t allow. The new version features inclusive casting, a new character look for Flounder, lyric changes, and the absence of the song “Daughters of Triton”. As a studio, Benson believes that it’s crucial to make these adjustments and consider what’s going on around us. She stated, “we need to be aware.”
Despite the fact that over 30 years have passed since the release of the original movie, Benson applauded the director Rob Marshall for paying “tribute to the integrity” of the 1989 film, which she says “just comes shining through in such a beautiful way” and is “just breathtaking.” She also mentioned that she has always felt connected to and “very protective” of Ariel and that after watching the new version, she’s “thrilled” with the result.
Benson believes that the changes that have been made in the live-action are essential and that the integrity of Ariel’s character has been maintained. She described the new version as a special and beautiful retelling of the story and is excited about the movie’s release.
Halle Bailey’s take on the role of Ariel has received some negative feedback because of the colour of her skin. Benson showed support for Bailey and praised her for her “absolutely beautiful” interpretation of Ariel. She commended Bailey for her love of the character and her performance in the film, which includes acting and singing.
In another interview with The Hollywood Reporter, “The Little Mermaid” director Rob Marshall and producer John DeLuca also expressed similar sentiments on Bailey’s performance in the live-action. Marshall said that over hundreds of actors and singers were seen for the role, but Bailey was exceptional and set the bar high for the other contenders. Marshall and DeLuca also said that there was no agenda to cast a woman of colour, and the goal was to find the best Ariel, and Halle Bailey claimed the role.
In addition to Halle Bailey, the movie also stars Melissa McCarthy, Javier Bardem, Jacob Tremblay, Daveed Diggs, and Awkwafina. “The Little Mermaid” is set to release on May 26, and fans are eagerly awaiting the release of this live-action retelling of the classic tale.
In conclusion, Jodi Benson is thrilled with the 2023 live-action version of “The Little Mermaid,” and she believes that it’s crucial to reflect and adjust to the current society. She commended the director for maintaining the integrity of the original movie while still providing a modern twist. Benson showed support for Halle Bailey and praised her for her exceptional performance in the movie. Fans are excited about the movie’s release on May 26, and they can’t wait to see how the new version will compare to the original.
