The Little Mermaid' Doesn't Make Its Point: Disney's Shallow Attempt at Progressiveness.

Introduction:

Disney's latest adaptation of "The Little Mermaid" has garnered significant attention for its attempt to present a more progressive story, featuring a Black lead. However, upon closer examination, it becomes evident that this retread of the 1989 classic falls short of making a meaningful impact.

 In this blog post, we will delve into the shortcomings of Disney's portrayal, highlighting its shallowness and missed opportunities for true progressiveness.

Diving Into Disney's Awkward Retread: The Little Mermaid Review

Disney faced the daunting task of recreating the magic of the original film while incorporating elements of progressiveness. However, the execution feels awkward and disjointed. The filmmakers seemed torn between staying true to the beloved original and delivering a fresh, more inclusive narrative. 

This struggle is palpable throughout the movie, resulting in a lack of cohesion and a compromised vision.

Unveiling The Shallow Depths: The Little Mermaid's Lack of Substance

One of the most significant issues with Disney's adaptation of "The Little Mermaid" is its lack of depth. While visually stunning, the film fails to deliver a compelling narrative that goes beyond the surface. Instead of exploring the complexities of the characters and their journeys, the focus remains primarily on eye-catching spectacle and nostalgic callbacks.

 This shallow approach leaves audiences craving a more substantial and thought-provoking experience.

A Missed Opportunity for True Progressiveness: The Little Mermaid's Black Lead

The casting of a Black actress as the lead in "The Little Mermaid" was hailed as a step forward in terms of diversity and representation. However, the film disappointingly underutilizes this opportunity. 

The narrative fails to address racial issues or empower the character in a significant manner. Instead of embracing the chance to explore the unique challenges and perspectives faced by a Black protagonist, the movie relegates her to a superficial role that fails to leave a lasting impact on the audience.

Shallow Sea of Stereotypes: Problematic Portrayals in The Little Mermaid

In its attempt to update the story, "The Little Mermaid" unfortunately falls into the trap of perpetuating stereotypes. Certain characters lack meaningful development and are reduced to one-dimensional archetypes, reinforcing tired tropes. 

These portrayals not only undermine the progressiveness the film aims to achieve but also contribute to a missed opportunity for diverse and nuanced storytelling.

Beyond the Surface: The Little Mermaid's Failure to Explore Complex Themes

While Disney's "The Little Mermaid" touches on relevant themes such as identity, self-discovery, and empowerment, it only scratches the surface. The film fails to delve deeply into these complex issues, leaving audiences wanting more. 

By shying away from the deeper exploration of these themes, the movie misses an opportunity to provide meaningful insights and provoke thoughtful conversations.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Disney's retelling of "The Little Mermaid" may have aimed for progressiveness and inclusivity, but it ultimately falls short. Through a shallow narrative, missed opportunities for meaningful exploration, and problematic portrayals, the film fails to make its point effectively. 

While it's important to acknowledge steps toward diversity, it is equally crucial to hold media accountable for the depth and impact of their storytelling. Disney's latest adaptation of "The Little Mermaid" serves as a reminder that true progressiveness requires more than just surface-level changes.

 Audiences deserve narratives that engage, challenge, and inspire, and it is essential for filmmakers to rise to this challenge by embracing authenticity and meaningful storytelling.

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