A sneak preview for the upcoming live-action remake of “The Little Mermaid” is now playing at Walt Disney Presents in Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
In addition to the brief screening, props from the film are on display around the lobby, and an Ariel meet and greet will be opening at this location on May 26 to coincide with the movie’s official wide release.
The neon-lit marquee out front prominently displays this limited time showing, as numerous posters adorn various surrounding walls, lampposts, and automatic doors.
The props featured inside are original and include an engagement ring, spyglass, jade mermaid, Triton’s conch shell, and a statue from Ariel’s Grotto.
A summary of the plot is also posted in one of the display cases:
In this live-action reimagining of the classic animated film, a curious young mermaid named Ariel (Halle Bailey) desires nothing more than to explore the mysterious world beyond the sea. Against the wishes of her protective father, King Triton (Javier Bardem), the princess takes a forbidden journey to the surface, where she secretly rescues a human prince. Determined to reunite with the handsome Prince Eric (Jonah Hauer-King), Ariel visits the evil sea witch, Ursula (Melissa McCarthy), and crafts an ominous deal that will ultimately place her life and undersea kingdom in peril. This display features original props from the film.
‘The Little Mermaid’ Arriving in One Week
Oscar-nominated Rob Marshall, known for his work on the film adaptation of “Chicago” and Disney’s “Mary Poppins Returns,” directs “The Little Mermaid.” In addition to the aforementioned stars, Noma Dumezweni will portray a new character — Queen Selina, Eric’s mother. Entertainment Weekly published an exclusive story on the production, with interviews, stills, and behind-the-scenes photos.
The full trailer debuted during the Oscars, and a teaser trailer was released in April. Alan Menken, who wrote the score for the original 1989 “The Little Mermaid,” made some lyrical updates for the live-action remake, with help from Lin-Manuel Miranda and hefty inspiration from the late Howard Ashman‘s original compositions.
Jodi Benson, who debuted the original voice of animated Ariel, united with Bailey at the film’s premiere.
This isn’t the first time Bailey and Benson have interacted. According to the Los Angeles Times, Benson makes an on-land cameo in the new film and was on set for its filming, serving as on-set support. “She told me how proud she was of me and how I’m handling everything, and encouraged me to just go for it,” Bailey said regarding Benson. “I appreciate her for being so warm and welcoming to me because she’s the GOAT, and it was important to me to get her stamp of approval.”
Other promotional items and experiences are popping up around the parks as release day approaches. A new MagicBand+ inspired by the film is now available at Walt Disney World, along with a “Little Mermaid” loungefly, also specifically inspired by the live-action version.
Beyond Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Ariel will be greeting guests elsewhere around the world, too. In California, Disneyland patrons will soon find her on the promenade near “it’s a small world.” In France, she will appear in a “joyful, limited-time celebration” at Walt Disney Studios Park in Disneyland Paris. The interactive “musical moment” will include the songs “Under the Sea” and “Kiss the Girl.”
Are you excited for this latest take on the classic “Little Mermaid” tale? Will you be at the cinema when it comes out near the end of this month? Let us know in the comments.
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