The fast-approaching live-action adaptation of “The Little Mermaid” is set to hit theaters on May 26, 2023.
Tonight, the movie held its “blue carpet” premiere in Los Angeles, and attendees caught a glimpse of the highly anticipated film for the first time.
The social media embargo has been lifted and first reactions are beginning to drop online.
The majority of initial reviews are extremely favorable, with some stating that the film ranks among the top Disney live-action movies. Both Halle Bailey’s and Melissa McCarthy’s performance has garnered significant acclaim.
Take a look at what everyone is saying below:
#TheLittleMermaid was a pleasant surprise! Halle Bailey’s voice is unreal. I can never confidently do “Part of Your World” at karaoke again. Standouts: Daveed Diggs (no easy feat when you’re voicing a “realistic” crab) and Melissa McCarthy (a safe choice but she nailed it).
— Jamie Jirak (@JamieCinematics) May 9, 2023
#TheLittleMermaid is the best Disney live-action adaptation to date. Halle Bailey IS Ariel. Major props to the sound effects team. Good changes, though one new song with too much autotune. Could watch this version’s Under the Sea all day, it was the highlight of the whole thing.
— Gillian Blum (@GillianBlum) May 9, 2023
#TheLittleMermaid is a live-action remake that retains the heart and soul of the story we know and love, and it’s elevated even further by a note-perfect star-making performance from Halle Bailey – she was born to be on the big screen, & she’s why this new take is worth watching. pic.twitter.com/Tcewp2L4MY
— Zoë Rose Bryant (@ZoeRoseBryant) May 9, 2023
#TheLittleMermaid makes it pretty close to being the best live action Disney movie, however it still struggles in the villain department. Halle Bailey IS Ariel and I had literal chills throughout her performance. This is a little mermaid retelling like you’ve never seen before. pic.twitter.com/JjtLOR61vL
— Felicia (@becomingfelicia) May 9, 2023
#TheLittleMermaid lovingly adds to the magic of the original.
In some areas too much, others too little, but unquestionably one of the better live-action adaptations Disney has crafted pic.twitter.com/b92VkkRBeF
— The Illuminerdi (@The_Illuminerdi) May 9, 2023
#TheLittleMermaid is filled with a few great performances from Halle Bailey and Melissa McCarthy, but it’s a mostly paint-by-numbers remake that’s isn’t as good as the animated masterpiece. pic.twitter.com/YY4ielYXiR
— Kirsten (@KirstenAcuna) May 9, 2023
Disney’s #TheLittleMermaid is definitely one of the better live-action adaptions. Halle Bailey pours incredible emotion into Ariel and I got chills watching her, while Melissa McCarthy’s Ursula and Daveed Diggs’ Sebastian steal scenes all day. pic.twitter.com/DHhIkbIj8s
— Erik Davis (@ErikDavis) May 9, 2023
#TheLittleMermaid REVIEW: Delightful & emotional, the Disney MAGIC IS BACK! A beautiful coming of age adventure with awe inspiring imagery & action that’ll make you wet. This isn’t just another remake, it’s one of the best family films ever! A fitting end setting up what’s next pic.twitter.com/Cev1vAaIwg
— Atom (@theatomreview) May 9, 2023
#TheLittleMermaid always had to live up to a lot. The film works best when it does the original, not so much when it adds in new songs and backstory. @HalleBailey is ASTOUNDING. An Ariel for the ages. Also, @melissamccarthy gives great Pat Carroll. She sings her heart out. pic.twitter.com/xsE6zPQCcu
— Kristen Lopez (@kristenlopez88) May 9, 2023
It may look visually rough under the sea, but THE LITTLE MERMAID eventually recreates some of the original’s magic through its timeless story & cast. Daveed Diggs & Melissa McCarthy are highlights but Halle Bailey is the one astonishes with her gorgeous singing & empathetic charm pic.twitter.com/DhmmtOLaLJ
— Matt Neglia (@NextBestPicture) May 9, 2023