Disney has been a pioneering force in animation since the debut of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs in 1937. Over the decades, the studio has embraced the trend of transforming its animated classics into live-action films, with early adaptations like the 1996 version of 101 Dalmatians featuring Glenn Close as the infamous Cruella de Vil. However, the real surge in live-action remakes began in the 2010s, marked by titles such as Cinderella (2015), Beauty and the Beast (2017), and Aladdin (2019).
This year, Disney is set to debut two highly anticipated live-action adaptations. The first is Snow White, scheduled for release on March 21, featuring Rachel Zegler in the lead role. Following closely behind is the remake of Lilo & Stitch, arriving on May 23. Additionally, 2026 will see the release of a revamped Moana, with Dwayne Johnson reprising his iconic role as Maui from the original animated film.
The Little Mermaid Shines on Disney+
Halle Bailey Takes Center Stage as Ariel
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As it stands, the 2023 live-action adaptation of The Little Mermaid ranks among the top 5 most-watched programs on Disney+.With Halle Bailey embodying Ariel and Melissa McCarthy portraying the menacing Ursula, the film has garnered a 67% critic rating on Rotten Tomatoes and an impressive box office haul of $569 million.
Currently, the most popular title on Disney+ is the animated series Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man, which, while part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, explores a unique narrative space. Following this in viewership are an ABC News special—Kendrick vs. Drake: The Feud—and the Hulu series Paradise. In fourth place, Shifting Gears, a new ABC sitcom featuring Tim Allen and Kat Dennings, has been breaking viewership records since its debut.
Analysis of The Little Mermaid’s Streaming Success
An Under-the-Sea Adventure Captivates Fans
Despite not achieving the same box office success as other recent Disney live-action adaptations, The Little Mermaid boasts numerous advantages. The original animated film, which played a pivotal role in the Disney Renaissance from 1989 to 1999, remains a cherished classic. The combined star power of Melissa McCarthy and Lin-Manuel Miranda also draws attention, inviting fans to experience their unique interpretations of this beloved tale.
Furthermore, given the mixed responses that previous live-action remakes have received, the ability to watch this new adaptation from home—particularly on a streaming platform that subscribers are already using—minimizes the perceived risk compared to a traditional theater outing. While the contemporary rendition of The Little Mermaid may not reach the iconic status of its animated predecessor, it still serves as a loving homage to one of Disney’s most iconic films.
Source: Disney+
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