The Politics of Representation in The Little Mermaid 2023

Disney has always been known for its timeless classics that capture the hearts and imaginations of audiences around the world. One such classic is "The Little Mermaid," which tells the story of a young mermaid named Ariel who dreams of becoming human. With its enchanting animation, memorable songs, and captivating storyline, "The Little Mermaid" has become a beloved film for generations.

Now, with the announcement of a live-action remake set to be released in 2023, fans are eagerly awaiting to see how this beloved tale will be reimagined on the big screen. However, this new adaptation brings with it an important conversation about representation in Hollywood.

Representation Matters

In recent years, there has been a growing demand for more diverse and inclusive representation in media. Audiences want to see themselves reflected on screen and to have their stories told authentically. This push for better representation extends beyond race and gender; it also includes disability, sexuality, and body positivity.

With "The Little Mermaid," there are several key characters whose representation holds significance. Ariel herself has long been seen as a symbol of female empowerment and independence. Her desire to explore the human world and make her own choices resonates with many viewers who have felt confined by societal expectations.

In casting Halle Bailey as Ariel, Disney took a step towards better representation by choosing an African American actress for the lead role. This decision was met with both praise and backlash from fans. While many lauded Disney's commitment to diversity, others argued that Ariel should remain true to her original appearance as a fair-skinned, red-haired character.

Challenging Stereotypes

One of the criticisms often raised in discussions about representation in media is the perpetuation of stereotypes. In "The Little Mermaid," there are characters that have been criticized for their portrayal as racial or cultural stereotypes.

For example, Sebastian the crab has been seen by some as a caricature of Jamaican culture, with his accent and musical numbers reminiscent of reggae. Similarly, the characters Flounder and Scuttle have been criticized for their portrayal as sidekicks who are less intelligent and reliant on Ariel for guidance.

In the upcoming live-action remake, there is an opportunity to challenge these stereotypes and present more nuanced portrayals of these beloved characters. By giving Sebastian a more authentic voice and agency, and by fleshing out the personalities of Flounder and Scuttle, Disney can help break away from harmful stereotypes that may have existed in previous iterations of "The Little Mermaid."

Beyond Race: LGBTQ+ Representation

While discussions about representation often focus on race and ethnicity, it is equally important to consider other aspects of identity, such as sexual orientation. With the live-action remake of "The Little Mermaid," there is an opportunity to explore LGBTQ+ representation in a meaningful way.

In recent years, Disney has made strides towards better LGBTQ+ representation in its films. For example, "Frozen 2" featured a subtle but powerful moment where Elsa was shown finding love with another woman. This moment was celebrated by many LGBTQ+ fans who saw themselves represented on screen.

With "The Little Mermaid," there is speculation about whether Ariel's best friend Flounder could be portrayed as gay or bisexual. This would be a significant step forward in terms of LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media. By showcasing a character who is openly LGBTQ+, Disney would send a powerful message of inclusivity and acceptance to its audience.

The Importance of Authentic Storytelling

Ultimately, the politics of representation in "The Little Mermaid" come down to the importance of authentic storytelling. It is not enough to simply cast diverse actors; their stories and experiences must also be given the space to be told.

By working with writers, directors, and consultants from diverse backgrounds, Disney can ensure that the live-action remake of "The Little Mermaid" stays true to its original spirit while also addressing the concerns raised by modern audiences. This collaborative approach will help create a film that resonates with viewers and sets an example for future adaptations.

A Film for the Future

As we eagerly await the release of "The Little Mermaid" in 2023, it's important to remember that this adaptation has the potential to pave the way for more inclusive and representative storytelling in Hollywood. By addressing issues of race, challenging stereotypes, and exploring LGBTQ+ representation, this film can become a symbol of progress.

The politics of representation are complex and ever-evolving. It is up to filmmakers, audiences, and society as a whole to engage in meaningful discourse about these issues. With "The Little Mermaid," Disney has an opportunity to contribute positively to this conversation and create a film that speaks to the hearts of people from all walks of life.