Disney has released the trailer and poster for the live-action reimagining of its classic animated musical The Little Mermaid. The film is directed by Rob Marshall and stars Halle Bailey and Melissa McCarthy, among others. The trailer debuted during ABC’s live broadcast of the 95th Annual Academy Awards.
The Little Mermaid follows the story of Ariel, the youngest of King Triton’s daughters and a mermaid with a thirst for adventure. Ariel longs to explore the world beyond the sea and falls for the charming Prince Eric during a visit to the surface.
Bailey plays Ariel, while Jonah Hauer-King portrays Prince Eric. Daveed Diggs, Awkwafina, Jacob Tremblay, Noma Dumezweni, Art Malik, and Javier Bardem also star in the film. McCarthy plays Ursula, the villainous sea witch who tempts Ariel with a deal.
The screenplay for The Little Mermaid was written by David Magee, with Marshall directing. The film’s songs feature music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Howard Ashman, as well as new lyrics by Hamilton creator Lin-Manuel Miranda. Marc Platt, Miranda, John DeLuca, and Marshall produced the movie, while Jeffrey Silver served as executive producer.
The Little Mermaid is set to open exclusively in theaters nationwide on May 26, 2023.