The Evolution of Ariel: Why a Black Actress Is Perfect for the Live-Action Little Mermaid

The beloved character of Ariel from Disney's The Little Mermaid is currently facing a significant transformation. Halle Bailey, a black actress, has been cast as the lead role in the upcoming live-action adaptation. This move has sparked debate and brought attention to the evolution of how Disney presents its classic characters.

The Original Story and Its Critics

Based on the story by Hans Christian Andersen, Ariel has long been a part of European literature and culture. However, the 1989 Disney animated version of the story painted a picture that has sparked both admiration and controversy. Many critics argue that the Dismey (Disneyized) version of the story has failed to capture the full depth and meaning behind Andersen's original message.

One of the criticisms of the Dismey adaptation is its exclusion of certain racial and cultural backgrounds. Furthermore, the adaptation does not accurately reflect the spiritual and symbolic nature of the original story. Additionally, some view the portrayal of male characters as misandristic, which is seen as disrespectful to the prince in the story.

Inclusivity and Cultural Representation

Disney has long been under scrutiny for its lack of representation in terms of race, gender, and culture. The casting of Halle Bailey as Ariel in the live-action remake is a step towards addressing these concerns and increasing inclusivity.

Despite some skepticism, this move sends a powerful message. The real question, as some have pointed out, is not so much about the casting but about deeper themes and representation. Just as Tuvok, a black character from Star Trek: Voyager, challenged expectations, so too does the casting of a black Little Mermaid.

Mermaids in Reality and Folklore

While actual mermaids are a mere figment of imagination, folklore and mythology from around the world often depict mermaids with darker skin and more diverse appearances. This has led some to wonder about the authenticity of Ariel's depiction as a light-skinned character.

Interestingly, the real question is not about mermaids in nature, but about the inclusion of diverse racial representations in media and storytelling. Just as mermaids have been reported in Africa, it's reasonable to consider a darker-skinned version of Ariel.

Revisiting Classic Stories

The live-action adaptation of The Little Mermaid presents an opportunity to revisit and reimagine classic stories. While the character of Ariel has often been portrayed with light skin, who's to say that she must be this way? In a world where diversity and inclusivity are increasingly valued, there is no reason why a dark-skinned Mermaid cannot coexist with the original concept.

Furthermore, the casting of a black actress as Ariel aligns with the broader trend of diverse casting in film and television. This move can serve as a catalyst for more nuanced and inclusive storytelling in the industry, where fictional characters can reflect a wider range of human experiences and backgrounds.

Conclusion

While the casting of a black actress as Ariel in the live-action adaptation of The Little Mermaid may challenge traditional perceptions, it also opens doors for new interpretations of classic stories. By embracing a more inclusive vision, Disney can create a version of the story that resonates with a broader audience and reflects the rich diversity of our world.