Disney is giving us a closer look at the upcoming remake with a behind-the-scenes feature. In the video features interviews with several members of the cast and crew, including director Rob Marshall, producer/lyricist Lin-Manuel Miranda, composer/songwriter Alan Menken, and cast members Halle Bailey, Melissa McCarthy, and Awkwafina. While the trailer for The Little Mermaid was already visually impressive, this behind-the-scenes featurette contains even more footage. This includes a closer look at McCarthy’s drag-queen-inspired Ursula, who Marshall refers to as “extraordinary” and who Awkwafina calls “hilarious and terrifying.” The cast and crew also celebrate Bailey, who recalls being among the little girls who wanted to be a mermaid when she saw the original film. Bailey calls the experience a “dream come true.”
‘The Little Mermaid’ Cast and Crew Teases “Something Special” in Behind-The-Scenes Featurette
McCarthy says in her interview in this behind-the-scenes look at The Little Mermaid, “The world that Rob Marshall created pushes boundaries. He’s doing something special.” Bailey seems to share this sentiment. The original version of The Little Mermaid has had some criticism in recent years, with some considering Ariel to be far too naive and boy-crazy. Bailey told Edition that her version of Ariel has an updated perspective. She said, “I’m really excited for my version of the film because we’ve definitely changed that perspective of just her wanting to leave the ocean for a boy. It’s way bigger than that. It’s about herself, her purpose, her freedom, her life, and what she wants.”
Alan Menken looks back fondly on 1989’s The Little Mermaid, the first movie he ever scored. He describes the emotional experience of coming back and working with Lin-Manuel Miranda, who he calls “brilliant.” The pair have written new music for the movie and are also updating some of the original songs for a modern audience.
The Little Mermaid will release in theaters on May 26.
