Vocal powerhouse Paloma Faith has expressed her concerns over Disney's live-action rendition of "The Little Mermaid", especially its impact on young viewers, after a viewing session with her children.
In an Instagram Story post, now removed, Faith shared her reactions to the film. Even as she lauded the lead actor Halle Bailey's portrayal of Ariel and the performance of the rest of the cast, she took issue with the message the movie conveyed.
According to a screenshot captured by TMZ, Faith wrote, "Just seen the new 'Little Mermaid' with my kids, and while I think Halle gives a good performance and it's great casting, as a mother of girls I don't want my kids to think it's ok to give up your entire voice and your powers to love a man. Wtf is this s--t?! Not what I want to be teaching next gen women at all."
Her critique prompted mixed responses on social media, with some individuals pondering whether she was familiar with the 1989 original film's plotline. As one Twitter user noted, "It's literally the same as the original girl," while another asked if she was unaware of the story before viewing the film.
The storyline depicts Ariel, an enchanted sea creature, trading her voice to Ursula for a pair of human legs, only to fall in love with Prince Eric in her new form.
Faith, mother to two girls with Leyman Lahcine, isn't alone in her unease regarding the movie's theme. British actress Keira Knightley has previously expressed her reservations about Disney's princess narratives, including "The Little Mermaid", that often depict women being rescued by men.
During a conversation with Ellen DeGeneres, Knightley revealed, "She's banned from watching 'Cinderella,' as the film is about waiting around for a rich guy to rescue her - no, rescue yourself. And 'Little Mermaid' [is banned, too]. I mean, the songs are great, but do not give your voice up for a man. Hello!"
However, Halle Bailey, in a prior interview with Edition, clarified that the new adaptation offers a more layered portrayal of Ariel and addresses some of the criticisms related to perceived sexism.
Bailey stated, "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." She further expressed her satisfaction that Disney is modernizing certain themes to reflect the realities of today's women.
