It's a testament to Disney's branding that mainstream audiences don't necessarily know who directed or starred in some of their better-known movies. Although many have seen the studio's 1950 animated feature "Cinderella," most audiences wouldn't be able to tell you that Ilene Woods played the title character, or that Wilfred Jackson, Hamilton Luske, and Clyde Geronimi directed the film. Disney's "Aladdin" changed that with the casting of Robin Williams as the Genie. And the trend of hiring known screen celebrities, often not voice actors, to sell an animated feature to a broad audience went to a whole other level in the wake of DreamWorks' "Shrek." The advent of the internet also helped certain actresses become known among Disney fans. Nowadays, many adults know the names of the actresses who played characters like Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, or Ariel the Mermaid.
By Disney's own selection, there are thirteen "official" Disney Princesses: Snow White,...
By Disney's own selection, there are thirteen "official" Disney Princesses: Snow White,...
- 3/25/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Since its inception, ‘The Little Mermaid’ has been a cultural touchstone, captivating audiences with its story of love, longing, and the pursuit of dreams. The challenge of bringing such beloved animated characters to life is no small feat, and it takes a special kind of talent to embody these iconic roles. Various adaptations have seen different actresses take on the part of Ariel, each adding their unique flair to this cherished mermaid. As we dive into the performances that have defined Ariel over the years, let’s appreciate the artistry and passion these actresses have brought to their portrayals. Jodi Benson...
- 2/2/2024
- by Steve Delikson
- TVovermind.com
‘Disney 100: A Century of Dreams’ (Photo Credit: ABC)
ABC’s celebrating all things Disney with a 20/20 special Disney 100: A Century of Dreams. The two-hour special will air on Thursday, December 14, 2023 at 9pm Et/Pt and will feature new stories from those with intimate knowledge of Disney’s legacy, along with rare footage from the iconic brand’s 100 years.
Disney CEO Bob Iger, Mary Poppins stars Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke, and Walt Disney’s grandsons Chris Miller and Walter Miller are involved in the special in new interviews. The special explores Disney’s music history with songwriter Richard Sherman, Sir Elton John, composer Alan Menken, and singer/songwriter Lin-Manuel Miranda talking about music’s role in Disney’s storytelling.
Disney 100: A Century of Dreams also includes interviews with actors who’ve voiced characters in Disney’s animated productions, including Idina Menzel, Jodi Benson, Paige O’Hara, and Ariana DeBose.
ABC’s celebrating all things Disney with a 20/20 special Disney 100: A Century of Dreams. The two-hour special will air on Thursday, December 14, 2023 at 9pm Et/Pt and will feature new stories from those with intimate knowledge of Disney’s legacy, along with rare footage from the iconic brand’s 100 years.
Disney CEO Bob Iger, Mary Poppins stars Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke, and Walt Disney’s grandsons Chris Miller and Walter Miller are involved in the special in new interviews. The special explores Disney’s music history with songwriter Richard Sherman, Sir Elton John, composer Alan Menken, and singer/songwriter Lin-Manuel Miranda talking about music’s role in Disney’s storytelling.
Disney 100: A Century of Dreams also includes interviews with actors who’ve voiced characters in Disney’s animated productions, including Idina Menzel, Jodi Benson, Paige O’Hara, and Ariana DeBose.
- 12/8/2023
- by Rebecca Murray
- Showbiz Junkies
Disney has created an entire legacy on the concept of wishing on a star, but what happens if that star was an adorable, autonomous being? That’s just the start of Disney’s centennial feature, “Wish,” an animated musical that simultaneously pays homage to the Walt Disney Company while forging a new path of storytelling meant to sustain another hundred years.
But the idea of making a film to represent 100 years of storytelling is a tall feat, and it’s the biggest barrier to “Wish.” For all the film’s adoration of the Disney Company, and it’s back to basic approach of celebrating a great villain, Jennifer Lee and Allison Moore’s screenplay often feels underwritten, with characters who are delightful but lacking that wee bit of verisimilitude to make them jump off the page. Make no mistake, “Wish” is a darling film with fantastic music and amazing voice performances,...
But the idea of making a film to represent 100 years of storytelling is a tall feat, and it’s the biggest barrier to “Wish.” For all the film’s adoration of the Disney Company, and it’s back to basic approach of celebrating a great villain, Jennifer Lee and Allison Moore’s screenplay often feels underwritten, with characters who are delightful but lacking that wee bit of verisimilitude to make them jump off the page. Make no mistake, “Wish” is a darling film with fantastic music and amazing voice performances,...
- 11/17/2023
- by Kristen Lopez
- The Wrap
It took a village of creatives at Disney Animation to pull off “Once Upon a Studio,” the animated short that celebrates 100 years of stories and magic. Iconic characters like Snow White and Peter Pan feature alongside Robin Williams’ Genie in a cast of 543 characters from more than 85 feature-length and short films. And it all came together without any artificial intelligence involved.
Directors Dan Abraham and Trent Correy were seeking a way to honor the studio’s legacy. “Once Upon a Studio” takes place at the end of a work day at Walt Disney Animation Studios in Burbank. The studio becomes a magical place once Disney Legend Burny Mattinson, who worked there for 70 years on films such as “Lady and the Tramp” (1955) and “One Hundred and One Dalmatians” (1961), leaves. Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse step out of a photo and call for their friends to gather for an official 100th Anniversary Studio portrait.
Directors Dan Abraham and Trent Correy were seeking a way to honor the studio’s legacy. “Once Upon a Studio” takes place at the end of a work day at Walt Disney Animation Studios in Burbank. The studio becomes a magical place once Disney Legend Burny Mattinson, who worked there for 70 years on films such as “Lady and the Tramp” (1955) and “One Hundred and One Dalmatians” (1961), leaves. Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse step out of a photo and call for their friends to gather for an official 100th Anniversary Studio portrait.
- 10/16/2023
- by Jazz Tangcay
- Variety Film + TV
Animation Is Film revealed Thursday that its 2023 edition next month will open with Gkids and Studio Ghibli’s The Boy and the Heron, the latest film from Hayao Miyazaki that just opened the Toronto Film Festival. It is getting its U.S. Imax premiere at Tcl’s Chinese 6.
The festival, set to run October 18-22 in Hollywood, will close with Netflix’s Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget, to be followed by a Q&a with director Sam Fell and executive producer Peter Lord.
Aif’s annual lineup of theatrical presentations, special events, and shorts showcase includes two Annecy International Animation Film Festival prize winners, Neon’s film Robot Dreams and Gkids’ Chicken for Linda!, which will make their West Coast and U.S. debuts. Other titles include Phoenix: Reminiscence of Flower (Japan), making its North American theatrical premiere.
DreamWorks Animation will host a special presentation of its latest film,...
The festival, set to run October 18-22 in Hollywood, will close with Netflix’s Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget, to be followed by a Q&a with director Sam Fell and executive producer Peter Lord.
Aif’s annual lineup of theatrical presentations, special events, and shorts showcase includes two Annecy International Animation Film Festival prize winners, Neon’s film Robot Dreams and Gkids’ Chicken for Linda!, which will make their West Coast and U.S. debuts. Other titles include Phoenix: Reminiscence of Flower (Japan), making its North American theatrical premiere.
DreamWorks Animation will host a special presentation of its latest film,...
- 9/21/2023
- by Valerie Complex
- Deadline Film + TV
"Lego Disney Princess: The Castle Quest" is an animated crossover TV special developed by Lego in collaboration with the 'Disney Princess' franchise, starring Jodi Benson, Noni Rose, Mandy Moore, Auli'i Cravalho, Katherine Von Till, Richard White, Jim Cummings, Corey Burton, Jo Anne Worley, Roland Rubio and Barrett Leddy, now streaming on Disney+:
"...'Tiana', 'Moana', 'Snow White', 'Rapunzel' and 'Ariel' are off on an adventure as they are each unexpectedly transported to a mysterious castle.
"Shortly after arriving, they soon discover that 'Gaston' has hatched an evil plan to take over all their kingdoms. The Princess characters must work together to solve challenges hidden deep within the castle walls and try to save their kingdoms. Will bravery, quick-thinking and teamwork prevail?..."
Click the images to enlarge...
"...'Tiana', 'Moana', 'Snow White', 'Rapunzel' and 'Ariel' are off on an adventure as they are each unexpectedly transported to a mysterious castle.
"Shortly after arriving, they soon discover that 'Gaston' has hatched an evil plan to take over all their kingdoms. The Princess characters must work together to solve challenges hidden deep within the castle walls and try to save their kingdoms. Will bravery, quick-thinking and teamwork prevail?..."
Click the images to enlarge...
- 8/24/2023
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
Disney's magical live-action reimagining of "The Little Mermaid" hit theaters in May, and now it's finally heading to streaming. The remake, which stars Halle Bailey as Ariel, was one of the most anticipated movies of the year, especially after unveiling its sprawling, full-length trailer during the 2023 Oscars. Its cast also includes Jonah Hauer-King as Prince Eric, Melissa McCarthy as Ursula, Awkwafina as Scuttle, Jacob Tremblay as Flounder, Javier Bardem as King Triton, and Daveed Diggs as Sebastian.
Though live-action Disney remakes can sometimes be hit or miss, it seems the new "The Little Mermaid" has something everyone can enjoy (even adults who are fans of the iconic story). From exciting new songs to renditions of classics from the original 1989 movie, the rebooted movie breathes new life into a familiar tale that today's generation has fallen in love with - especially with Bailey at the forefront.
Bailey's role as Ariel has...
Though live-action Disney remakes can sometimes be hit or miss, it seems the new "The Little Mermaid" has something everyone can enjoy (even adults who are fans of the iconic story). From exciting new songs to renditions of classics from the original 1989 movie, the rebooted movie breathes new life into a familiar tale that today's generation has fallen in love with - especially with Bailey at the forefront.
Bailey's role as Ariel has...
- 8/8/2023
- by Njera Perkins
- Popsugar.com
"Lego Disney Princess: The Castle Quest", is a new animated TV special from 'Disney Princess' and the 'Lego Group', directed by Michael D. Black, streaming August 18, 2023 on Disney+:
".. 'Tiana', 'Moana', 'Snow White', 'Rapunzel' and 'Ariel' are off on an adventure as they are each unexpectedly transported to a mysterious castle. Shortly after arriving, they soon discover that 'Gaston' has hatched an evil plan to take over all their kingdoms! The 'Princess' characters must work together to solve challenges hidden deep within the castle walls and try to save their kingdoms from Gaston. Will bravery, quick-thinking, and teamwork prevail?..."
Cast includes Jodi Benson, Auli'i Cravalho, Mandy Moore, Anika Noni Rose, Katie Von Till, Richard White, Joanne Worley, Corey Burton and Jim Cummings as 'King Triton'.
Click the images to enlarge...
".. 'Tiana', 'Moana', 'Snow White', 'Rapunzel' and 'Ariel' are off on an adventure as they are each unexpectedly transported to a mysterious castle. Shortly after arriving, they soon discover that 'Gaston' has hatched an evil plan to take over all their kingdoms! The 'Princess' characters must work together to solve challenges hidden deep within the castle walls and try to save their kingdoms from Gaston. Will bravery, quick-thinking, and teamwork prevail?..."
Cast includes Jodi Benson, Auli'i Cravalho, Mandy Moore, Anika Noni Rose, Katie Von Till, Richard White, Joanne Worley, Corey Burton and Jim Cummings as 'King Triton'.
Click the images to enlarge...
- 8/8/2023
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
Disney‘s live-action remake of The Little Mermaid is swimming onto the home market in September with a Digital, 4K Uhd, Blu-ray, and DVD rollout. The Little Mermaid arrives exclusively on Digital retailers on July 25 and 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD on September 19.
Per Disney’s official press release:
The Little Mermaid is visionary filmmaker Rob Marshall’s live-action reimagining of Disney’s beloved animated musical classic, the story of Ariel, a beautiful and spirited young mermaid with a thirst for adventure. The youngest of King Triton’s daughters and the most defiant, Ariel longs to find out more about the world beyond the sea and, while visiting the surface, falls for the dashing Prince Eric. While mermaids are forbidden to interact with humans, Ariel must follow her heart. She makes a deal with the evil sea witch, Ursula, which gives her a chance to experience life on land...
Per Disney’s official press release:
The Little Mermaid is visionary filmmaker Rob Marshall’s live-action reimagining of Disney’s beloved animated musical classic, the story of Ariel, a beautiful and spirited young mermaid with a thirst for adventure. The youngest of King Triton’s daughters and the most defiant, Ariel longs to find out more about the world beyond the sea and, while visiting the surface, falls for the dashing Prince Eric. While mermaids are forbidden to interact with humans, Ariel must follow her heart. She makes a deal with the evil sea witch, Ursula, which gives her a chance to experience life on land...
- 7/6/2023
- by Steve Seigh
- JoBlo.com
Everywhere you look, the “Full House” cast is there for its fans. The upcoming ’90s Con in Tampa, Florida, will feature a panel with Candace Cameron Bure, Jodie Sweetin, Andrea Barber, Dave Coulier, Scott Weinger and creator Jeff Franklin.
This marks the first time Franklin will be on a panel with the group since he was ousted from spinoff “Fuller House” in 2018 amid complaints of his behavior.
The group will be onsite for at the Tampa Convention Center on Saturday, September 16, and and Sunday, September 17 for autographs, selfies, professional photos ops and the full reunion panel.
90s Con was created in 2019 by Thats4Entertainment, the company behind ChristmasCon.
“As 90s kids, we thought it would be such a cool idea to be able to bring together tv show, movie and music reunions that we all grew up with,” co-founders Liliana Kligman and Christina Figliolia recently told Variety. “We knew the...
This marks the first time Franklin will be on a panel with the group since he was ousted from spinoff “Fuller House” in 2018 amid complaints of his behavior.
The group will be onsite for at the Tampa Convention Center on Saturday, September 16, and and Sunday, September 17 for autographs, selfies, professional photos ops and the full reunion panel.
90s Con was created in 2019 by Thats4Entertainment, the company behind ChristmasCon.
“As 90s kids, we thought it would be such a cool idea to be able to bring together tv show, movie and music reunions that we all grew up with,” co-founders Liliana Kligman and Christina Figliolia recently told Variety. “We knew the...
- 6/29/2023
- by Emily Longeretta
- Variety Film + TV
Amid racist backlash toward Disney’s live-action remake of “The Little Mermaid”, Halle Bailey just received some love from singer and actress, Stephanie Mills, who originated Dorothy in The Wiz on Broadway.
Mills took to Instagram to compare her experience on the seven-time Tony Award winning musical version of “The Wizard of Oz”, which had an all-Black cast, to what Bailey has been going through since news of her Ariel casting broke in July 2019.
“I know what this baby @hallebailey has been dealing with,” Mills began in the caption of her heartfelt post. “I got so much hate mail, I was told Judy Garland ‘is turning over in her grave’. All because a little black girl was playing a [role] that was once played by a white girl. It’s sad to see the same thing is happening to this beautiful, talented, smart and intelligent actress.
Read More: Halle Bailey Fans...
Mills took to Instagram to compare her experience on the seven-time Tony Award winning musical version of “The Wizard of Oz”, which had an all-Black cast, to what Bailey has been going through since news of her Ariel casting broke in July 2019.
“I know what this baby @hallebailey has been dealing with,” Mills began in the caption of her heartfelt post. “I got so much hate mail, I was told Judy Garland ‘is turning over in her grave’. All because a little black girl was playing a [role] that was once played by a white girl. It’s sad to see the same thing is happening to this beautiful, talented, smart and intelligent actress.
Read More: Halle Bailey Fans...
- 5/30/2023
- by Melissa Romualdi
- ET Canada
There wouldn't be "The Little Mermaid" without Howard Ashman. There probably wouldn't be many of the most beloved Disney movies without him. Ashman was credited as a lyricist on 1989's "The Little Mermaid," 1991's "Beauty and the Beast," and 1992's "Aladdin," but he also worked as a storyteller behind the scenes, whipping the movies into shape and helping create the framework of a Disney animated movie that the studio continued to use throughout the '90s.
Don Hahn, who produced "Beauty and the Beast" and "The Lion King," said in his 2009 documentary, "Waking Sleeping Beauty," about the history of Walt Disney Feature Animation, "Howard is referred to by Roy Disney as another Walt. To us, and to our generation, he was a Walt Disney type." Hahn also directed the 2018 documentary "Howard" about Ashman's life and his work for Disney.
"The animation studio was basically shutting down," Jodi Benson, who voices Ariel in the original film,...
Don Hahn, who produced "Beauty and the Beast" and "The Lion King," said in his 2009 documentary, "Waking Sleeping Beauty," about the history of Walt Disney Feature Animation, "Howard is referred to by Roy Disney as another Walt. To us, and to our generation, he was a Walt Disney type." Hahn also directed the 2018 documentary "Howard" about Ashman's life and his work for Disney.
"The animation studio was basically shutting down," Jodi Benson, who voices Ariel in the original film,...
- 5/29/2023
- by Victoria Edel
- Popsugar.com
In Hans Christian Andersen's original tale of "The Little Mermaid," first published in 1837, the titular mermaid longs to swim to the surface and explore the world of humans after falling in love with a human man. She visits a sea witch who has a potion that can give her legs in exchange for her voice; she will become human but won't be able to speak. In Andersen's world, mermaids don't have souls and, when they die, transform into sea foam rather than ascending into heaven.
In order to survive, the little mermaid will have to marry a human man before a certain amount of time elapses. It seems that the mermaid will not be successful in wooing the prince and is destined to become sea foam. At the last minute, the mermaid's sisters rally, giving their hair to the sea witch in exchange for a magical dagger. If...
In order to survive, the little mermaid will have to marry a human man before a certain amount of time elapses. It seems that the mermaid will not be successful in wooing the prince and is destined to become sea foam. At the last minute, the mermaid's sisters rally, giving their hair to the sea witch in exchange for a magical dagger. If...
- 5/26/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
"The Little Mermaid" was a vital turning point for Disney. Released in 1989, it was the first princess story in 30 years since "Sleeping Beauty," Ariel was a rebellious heroine like no other, and composer Alan Menken and lyricist Howard Ashman created a Broadway-style soundtrack. The songs have emotional depth, guide the story along, and communicate the characters' inner desires.
The incredible vocal talents of the original film made these songs treasures. Jodi Benson's sweet, crystalline voice — especially in her pivotal number "Part of Your World" — defined Ariel as an adventurous young woman and a new generation of princesses who would stop at nothing to get what they want. Samuel E. Wright's booming voice and vivacious energy are perfect for the overdramatic crustacean — especially the classic romp "Under the Sea." The dramatic, deep-throated performance of "Poor Unfortunate Souls" by Pat Carroll is delightfully wicked. These musical numbers are beloved classics,...
The incredible vocal talents of the original film made these songs treasures. Jodi Benson's sweet, crystalline voice — especially in her pivotal number "Part of Your World" — defined Ariel as an adventurous young woman and a new generation of princesses who would stop at nothing to get what they want. Samuel E. Wright's booming voice and vivacious energy are perfect for the overdramatic crustacean — especially the classic romp "Under the Sea." The dramatic, deep-throated performance of "Poor Unfortunate Souls" by Pat Carroll is delightfully wicked. These musical numbers are beloved classics,...
- 5/26/2023
- by Caroline Madden
- Slash Film
“The Little Mermaid” cast did their best at playing Variety’s “Name That Fish” on the red carpet at the movie’s premiere in Los Angeles
Melissa McCarthy (Ursula), Jacob Tremblay (Flounder), Noma Dumezweni (Queen Selina), Daveed Diggs (Sebastian) and Javier Bardem (King Triton) were put to the test by Variety’s Marc Malkin to see just how much they know about life under the sea.
When quizzed with images of various fish, answers included “basketball with spikes,” “sad fish,” “not Spongebob,” “swordy-thing” “not edible” and “definitely a fish.”
Watch the video above for all the fun.
Rob Marshall’s “The Little Mermaid” stars Halle Bailey as Ariel and Jonah Hauer-King as Prince Eric. The live-action musical film is a remake of Disney’s 1989 animated fairytale production that starred Jodi Benson as the voice of Ariel.
“The Little Mermaid” premieres in theaters on May 26.
“Halle Bailey is all the reason...
Melissa McCarthy (Ursula), Jacob Tremblay (Flounder), Noma Dumezweni (Queen Selina), Daveed Diggs (Sebastian) and Javier Bardem (King Triton) were put to the test by Variety’s Marc Malkin to see just how much they know about life under the sea.
When quizzed with images of various fish, answers included “basketball with spikes,” “sad fish,” “not Spongebob,” “swordy-thing” “not edible” and “definitely a fish.”
Watch the video above for all the fun.
Rob Marshall’s “The Little Mermaid” stars Halle Bailey as Ariel and Jonah Hauer-King as Prince Eric. The live-action musical film is a remake of Disney’s 1989 animated fairytale production that starred Jodi Benson as the voice of Ariel.
“The Little Mermaid” premieres in theaters on May 26.
“Halle Bailey is all the reason...
- 5/25/2023
- by Sophia Scorziello and Marc Malkin
- Variety Film + TV
Jodi Benson Supports Updates To ‘The Little Mermaid’: “Times Change, People Change, Cultures Change”
Jodi Benson, the actor that gave voice to Disney’s animated film The Little Mermaid, is showing her support for the live-action adaptation starring Halle Bailey.
“When you look at our film, we started in the studio in 1986 and we were released in 1989. Times change, people change, cultures change,” Benson told People. “What matters and what is important changes. And, as a studio, we need to make those adjustments, and we need to take into consideration what’s going on around us. We need to be aware.”
The remake directed by Rob Marshall also tweaked some of its songs to address the sensitivities society has adapted to like including consent in the “Kiss the Girl” lyrics.
“I do feel all of the nuances and small, slight changes here and there are very important,” Benson added. “It’s very important to address what’s going on right now in our world...
“When you look at our film, we started in the studio in 1986 and we were released in 1989. Times change, people change, cultures change,” Benson told People. “What matters and what is important changes. And, as a studio, we need to make those adjustments, and we need to take into consideration what’s going on around us. We need to be aware.”
The remake directed by Rob Marshall also tweaked some of its songs to address the sensitivities society has adapted to like including consent in the “Kiss the Girl” lyrics.
“I do feel all of the nuances and small, slight changes here and there are very important,” Benson added. “It’s very important to address what’s going on right now in our world...
- 5/25/2023
- by Armando Tinoco
- Deadline Film + TV
Jodi Benson, who voiced Ariel in the original 1989 The Little Mermaid, is praising the 2023 live-action reimagining starring Halle Bailey.
In an interview with People magazine published Wednesday, Benson shared why she supports the adjustments made to give the original a modern twist and reflect current society.
“When you look at our film, we started in the studio in 1986 and we were released in 1989. Times change, people change, cultures change,” Benson told People. “What matters and what is important changes. And, as a studio, we need to make those adjustments, and we need to take into consideration what’s going on around us. We need to be aware.”
Benson credited the live action for going more “in depth” with characters and says that it “expands” the story in ways the original didn’t allow. The film features inclusive casting, a new character look for Flounder, lyric changes and the song “Daughters...
In an interview with People magazine published Wednesday, Benson shared why she supports the adjustments made to give the original a modern twist and reflect current society.
“When you look at our film, we started in the studio in 1986 and we were released in 1989. Times change, people change, cultures change,” Benson told People. “What matters and what is important changes. And, as a studio, we need to make those adjustments, and we need to take into consideration what’s going on around us. We need to be aware.”
Benson credited the live action for going more “in depth” with characters and says that it “expands” the story in ways the original didn’t allow. The film features inclusive casting, a new character look for Flounder, lyric changes and the song “Daughters...
- 5/24/2023
- by Lexy Perez
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Jodi Benson, the original voice behind Ariel in 1989’s “The Little Mermaid”, is giving her seal of approval to Disney’s live-action remake of the animated classic.
Featuring Halle Bailey as the beloved mermaid princess, “The Little Mermaid” splashes into theatres this week. The reimagining of the classic film introduces new songs, fresh plotlines, and some minor lyrical tweaks to existing songs from the original.
According to Benson, she tells People that the updates made to showcase our current society are extremely important.
“When you look at our film, we started in the studio in 1986 and we were released in 1989. Times change, people change, cultures change,” says the 61-year-old actress.
Read More: Halle Bailey On Public Reception Of Relationship With Rapper Ddg: ‘I’m Able To Make My Own Decisions’
“What matters and what is important changes. And, as a studio, we need to make those adjustments, and we need...
Featuring Halle Bailey as the beloved mermaid princess, “The Little Mermaid” splashes into theatres this week. The reimagining of the classic film introduces new songs, fresh plotlines, and some minor lyrical tweaks to existing songs from the original.
According to Benson, she tells People that the updates made to showcase our current society are extremely important.
“When you look at our film, we started in the studio in 1986 and we were released in 1989. Times change, people change, cultures change,” says the 61-year-old actress.
Read More: Halle Bailey On Public Reception Of Relationship With Rapper Ddg: ‘I’m Able To Make My Own Decisions’
“What matters and what is important changes. And, as a studio, we need to make those adjustments, and we need...
- 5/24/2023
- by Emerson Pearson
- ET Canada
Jodi Benson has defended the story changes in the live-action remake of 'The Little Mermaid'.The 61-year-old star voiced Ariel in the original Disney 1989 animated film and can understand why lyrics to songs such as 'Kiss the Girl' and elements of the plot were changed to reflect the modern world.Jodi told Entertainment Weekly: "We're talking about starting our (voiceover) sessions in '86 (for the original film). It's 2023, so we have to grow, we have to learn, we have to be aware of our surroundings."The 'Toy Story' actress is glad that Rob Marshall's movie has been able to maintain elements of the original while also adapting for the modern era.Jodi said: "We've got to be aware of our growth as humans and what's important now and what maybe isn't as important."Things change. We've got to roll with that. I think that Rob and...
- 5/24/2023
- by Joe Graber
- Bang Showbiz
Disney's original Ariel Jodi Benson was fully supportive of the studio's new live-action update to "The Little Mermaid." In particular, the fact that director Rob Marshall decided to update the lyrics to some of the classic songs such as "Kiss the Girl" to better reflect the times we live in. Benson, for her part, understands the need for change and doesn't feel any negativity about it.
Speaking with Entertainment Weekly, Benson talked a bit about the updated songs, which are well over 30 years old at this point. The actress explained that this version, which sees Halle Bailey taking on the role of Ariel, truly needed to update the songs to reflect the world of 2023 — not 1989. Here's what she had to say about it:
"We're talking about starting our [voiceover] sessions in '86 [for the original film]. It's 2023, so we have to grow, we have to learn, we have to be aware of our surroundings. We've...
Speaking with Entertainment Weekly, Benson talked a bit about the updated songs, which are well over 30 years old at this point. The actress explained that this version, which sees Halle Bailey taking on the role of Ariel, truly needed to update the songs to reflect the world of 2023 — not 1989. Here's what she had to say about it:
"We're talking about starting our [voiceover] sessions in '86 [for the original film]. It's 2023, so we have to grow, we have to learn, we have to be aware of our surroundings. We've...
- 5/23/2023
- by Ryan Scott
- Slash Film
In John Musker's and Ron Clements' 1989 feature film "The Little Mermaid," the title character Ariel (Jodi Benson) has fallen in love with a human, a stringently verboten act in the mer-world. She longs to attract her human paramour's attention, much to the chagrin of the crab Sebastian (Samuel E. Wright), a servant to the king, her father. In order to convince Ariel that life under the sea is better than life on dry land, Sebastian launches into a hummable (and Academy Award-winning) song called "Under the Sea." He sings about how all the nearby ocean creatures are musically gifted, can all dance, and can all play instruments. The entire vicinity breaks into music hoping to convince Ariel of her misplaced desires. While the Academy may have been convinced that "Under the Sea" was a great song, Ariel was not. She swam away to pursue the man of her dreams.
- 5/23/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Halle Bailey is just three days out from the anticipated release of “The Little Mermaid” and, ahead of the big day, she’s recounting her reaction to the overwhelming response of young Black girls who gleefully reacted to an Ariel they identified with.
Back in September 2022, when the first teaser trailer for the Disney live-action remake surfaced, the response to Bailey as Ariel was incredible, with many parents posting their children’s reaction to watching the actress’ onscreen debut as the princess.
“When I saw those for the first time, I just cried. I was sobbing uncontrollably,” Bailey tells Glamour for the magazine’s global May cover story.
Read More: ‘The Little Mermaid’ Trailer: Halle Bailey Dreams Of Being Part Of Your World
Halle Bailey — Photo: Ab + Dm/Glamour Halle Bailey — Photo: Ab + Dm/Glamour Halle Bailey — Photo: Ab + Dm/Glamour
“The fact that these babies are looking at me...
Back in September 2022, when the first teaser trailer for the Disney live-action remake surfaced, the response to Bailey as Ariel was incredible, with many parents posting their children’s reaction to watching the actress’ onscreen debut as the princess.
“When I saw those for the first time, I just cried. I was sobbing uncontrollably,” Bailey tells Glamour for the magazine’s global May cover story.
Read More: ‘The Little Mermaid’ Trailer: Halle Bailey Dreams Of Being Part Of Your World
Halle Bailey — Photo: Ab + Dm/Glamour Halle Bailey — Photo: Ab + Dm/Glamour Halle Bailey — Photo: Ab + Dm/Glamour
“The fact that these babies are looking at me...
- 5/23/2023
- by Melissa Romualdi
- ET Canada
Disney’s live-action “The Little Mermaid” is both a faithful and expanded adaptation of the studio’s 1989 animated classic, which featured an iconic voice performance from Jodi Benson as princess Ariel. News broke in April that director Rob Marshall and his “Little Mermaid” team changed lyrics to classic songs such as “Kiss the Girl” and “Poor Unfortunate Souls” to address matters of consent and more. The love story between Ariel and Prince Eric was also overhauled so that Ariel isn’t simply giving up her voice for the love of a man, which is perhaps the biggest criticism made these days against the 1989 original.
“We’re talking about starting our [voiceover] sessions in ’86 [for the original film],” Benson recently told Entertainment Weekly, defending the new film’s decision to update “The Little Mermaid” to contemporary times. “It’s 2023, so we have to grow, we have to learn, we have to be aware of our surroundings.
“We’re talking about starting our [voiceover] sessions in ’86 [for the original film],” Benson recently told Entertainment Weekly, defending the new film’s decision to update “The Little Mermaid” to contemporary times. “It’s 2023, so we have to grow, we have to learn, we have to be aware of our surroundings.
- 5/23/2023
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety Film + TV
Disney’s attempts to reinvent their animated classics as live action versions has proven to be largely a smart boxoffice play, but one with a mixed creative result. Certainly some were huge hits like Bill Condon’s Beauty And The Beast and Guy Ritchie’s less enchanting Aladdin. Others effectively created photo-real animals in The Lion King and The Jungle Book. Older Disney staples have gotten the treatment by focusing on the villains in Cruella and Maleficent and their sequels, even an unfortunate Disney + attempt on the untouchable (if you ask me) Lady And The Tramp. But even approaching an animated masterpiece, 1989’s The Little Mermaid and essentially trying to make a splashy (sorry) big screen live action musical that works above and under the water seems dicey on paper. So what do you do? Bring in Rob Marshall, and as it turns out that is all the new live action The Little Mermaid needed.
- 5/22/2023
- by Pete Hammond
- Deadline Film + TV
We’ve been here before, haven’t we? A Disney live-action remake igniting a round of existential debate? This time it’s Rob Marshall’s interpretation of The Little Mermaid, based on John Musker and Ron Clement’s 1989 version and starring Halle Bailey as the titular sea creature. It features new music by Lin-Manuel Miranda and wrings as much as possible from the corporation’s CGI budget.
The questions raised by this faithful adaptation are familiar, but answering them only matters to an extent. Nostalgia pays in cash, correctives in publicity. For the global conglomerate’s bottom line, remaking classics is worth it. That these already tempered fairytales are retrofitted for contemporary audiences is merely a bonus.
Marshall’s Ariel (Bailey) is Black — a choice that sent scores of people clutching their pearls and reverting to racist protestations. Their complaints of a nonexistent white erasure are littered across the internet under the hashtag #NotMyAriel.
The questions raised by this faithful adaptation are familiar, but answering them only matters to an extent. Nostalgia pays in cash, correctives in publicity. For the global conglomerate’s bottom line, remaking classics is worth it. That these already tempered fairytales are retrofitted for contemporary audiences is merely a bonus.
Marshall’s Ariel (Bailey) is Black — a choice that sent scores of people clutching their pearls and reverting to racist protestations. Their complaints of a nonexistent white erasure are littered across the internet under the hashtag #NotMyAriel.
- 5/22/2023
- by Lovia Gyarkye
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Little Mermaid’s Halle Bailey and Jonah Hauer-King created a special bond while filming Rob Marshall’s live-action reimagining of Disney’s 1989 animated classic, and Hauer-King isn’t afraid to be a fanboy of his mega-talented co-star. The Atlanta and London natives play the roles of mermaid Princess Ariel and Prince Eric, respectively, which Jodi Benson and Christopher Daniel Barnes memorably brought to life 34 years ago in John Musker and Ron Clements’ animated film. Thus, Bailey and Hauer-King always approached the material with reverence and respect for the original film, even if their story took a couple of detours to familiar destinations.
Bailey — who is one half of the sisterly musical duo Chloe x Halle — had to play out an accomplished singer’s worst fear as Ariel, in that she had to imagine a reality where she’s lost her voice. However, she made a point to sing live...
Bailey — who is one half of the sisterly musical duo Chloe x Halle — had to play out an accomplished singer’s worst fear as Ariel, in that she had to imagine a reality where she’s lost her voice. However, she made a point to sing live...
- 5/17/2023
- by Brian Davids
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
"American Idol" is no stranger to a theme week, but the singing competition show struck a bit of collaborative gold by timing their Disney week with the upcoming release of the live-action "The Little Mermaid," which was the perfect opportunity to showcase Ariel herself, Halle Bailey, singing "Part of Your World."
With the exception of moronic racists who desperately need to have their keyboards taken away until they learn how to act with some common decency, Bailey's casting has been the main motivating factor for folks to turn up to see the new film, as the trailer had many fearing "The Little Mermaid" was going to follow the way of the "live-action" adaptation of "The Lion King." Regardless of how the final product turns out, there's one thing to be sure: Halle Bailey is Ariel.
The performance shows Bailey performing in front of the castle with underwater projections dazzling behind her.
With the exception of moronic racists who desperately need to have their keyboards taken away until they learn how to act with some common decency, Bailey's casting has been the main motivating factor for folks to turn up to see the new film, as the trailer had many fearing "The Little Mermaid" was going to follow the way of the "live-action" adaptation of "The Lion King." Regardless of how the final product turns out, there's one thing to be sure: Halle Bailey is Ariel.
The performance shows Bailey performing in front of the castle with underwater projections dazzling behind her.
- 5/15/2023
- by BJ Colangelo
- Slash Film
Halle Bailey was born to sing "Part of Your World" from "The Little Mermaid." The star of the live-action remake of the Disney animated classic performed the beloved song on "American Idol" as part of the competition show's Disney night, and she sounded even better than the previously released track - if you can believe it!
Standing in front of Sleeping Beauty's castle at Disneyland in a gorgeous blue mermaid gown, Bailey sang passionately for a live audience. As she approached the climax of the song, a beautiful light show ebbed and flowed behind her like moving ocean waters, culminating in blue and white fireworks going off in the sky as she delivered her unique spin on the song's iconic high note (which Jodi Benson originated) at the end of the line, "Wouldn't I love, love to explore that shore up above!"
Check out Bailey's first live performance of "Part of Your World" below.
Standing in front of Sleeping Beauty's castle at Disneyland in a gorgeous blue mermaid gown, Bailey sang passionately for a live audience. As she approached the climax of the song, a beautiful light show ebbed and flowed behind her like moving ocean waters, culminating in blue and white fireworks going off in the sky as she delivered her unique spin on the song's iconic high note (which Jodi Benson originated) at the end of the line, "Wouldn't I love, love to explore that shore up above!"
Check out Bailey's first live performance of "Part of Your World" below.
- 5/15/2023
- by Noelle Devoe
- Popsugar.com
Being a Disney princess is no small job. Jodi Benson, who portrayed Ariel in the original The Little Mermaid (1989), has only had to handle being the voice of a beloved character. But her successor Halle Bailey has become both the voice and the face of the red-headed mermaid in Disney’s live-action remake of the film.
In a recent interview with the Los Angeles Times, Bailey revealed the comforting advice Benson shared with her as she prepared to take on the role. “She told me how proud she was of...
In a recent interview with the Los Angeles Times, Bailey revealed the comforting advice Benson shared with her as she prepared to take on the role. “She told me how proud she was of...
- 5/12/2023
- by Larisha Paul
- Rollingstone.com
Halle Bailey revealed in a new interview with the Los Angeles Times that original princess Ariel voice actor Jodie Benson has a cameo appearance in Disney’s live-action “The Little Mermaid” remake. Benson appears in a scene set on land, so, alas, she’s not back as a mermaid. However, the cameo meant the two Ariel actors got a chance to meet on the set of the live-action movie. Bailey said she was grateful to have Benson’s blessing.
“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 of 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.”
Benson took to Instagram last September to call Bailey “absolutely amazing” after the first footage from...
“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 of 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.”
Benson took to Instagram last September to call Bailey “absolutely amazing” after the first footage from...
- 5/12/2023
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety Film + TV
Halle Bailey was swimmingly stunning in her gorgeous fishtail dress during the premiere of The Little Mermaid in Los Angeles, erasing any doubts that she was fit for her role in the live action remake of the Disney animated classic The Little Mermaid (1989).
History was made last year when it was announced that Bailey was cast as Ariel. Although her casting garnered some mixed comments, most are in support of Disney’s decision to cast Bailey.
“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,” Bailey told Edition Magazine. “It’s way bigger than that. It’s about herself, her purpose, her freedom, her life and what she wants.”
Other stars in attendance were Melissa McCarthy, who plays evil sea witch Ursula, Javier Bardem, who plays Ariel’s father King Triton,...
History was made last year when it was announced that Bailey was cast as Ariel. Although her casting garnered some mixed comments, most are in support of Disney’s decision to cast Bailey.
“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,” Bailey told Edition Magazine. “It’s way bigger than that. It’s about herself, her purpose, her freedom, her life and what she wants.”
Other stars in attendance were Melissa McCarthy, who plays evil sea witch Ursula, Javier Bardem, who plays Ariel’s father King Triton,...
- 5/10/2023
- by Rose Anne Cox-Peralta
- Uinterview
Under the sea! Under the sea! Well, at least temporarily!
On Monday, Hollywood was transformed into an underwater seascape for the world premiere of the live-action Disney film, “The Little Mermaid.”
Stars Halle Bailey (Ariel), Jonah Hauer-King (Eric), Melissa McCarthy (Ursula), and more took to the blue carpet. They were joined by several Disney Legends: Composer Alan Menken; Jodi Benson (voice of Ariel in the 1989 animated film); and Anika Noni Rose (voice of Princess Tiana in “The Princess and The Frog”).
This live-action version of “The Little Mermaid” is directed by Rob Marshall and opens May 26 in theaters, with an expected run later on Disney+.
Click through to see all the red carpet arrivals at the Dolby Theatre.
On Monday, Hollywood was transformed into an underwater seascape for the world premiere of the live-action Disney film, “The Little Mermaid.”
Stars Halle Bailey (Ariel), Jonah Hauer-King (Eric), Melissa McCarthy (Ursula), and more took to the blue carpet. They were joined by several Disney Legends: Composer Alan Menken; Jodi Benson (voice of Ariel in the 1989 animated film); and Anika Noni Rose (voice of Princess Tiana in “The Princess and The Frog”).
This live-action version of “The Little Mermaid” is directed by Rob Marshall and opens May 26 in theaters, with an expected run later on Disney+.
Click through to see all the red carpet arrivals at the Dolby Theatre.
- 5/10/2023
- by Lawrence Yee
- The Wrap
Disney princess dreams came true at the world premiere of "The Little Mermaid," as Halle Bailey, star of the new live-action remake, and Jodi Benson, lead of the original 1989 classic, united on the sea-blue carpet on May 8. A TikTok from the star-studded event captured a sweet moment where the two actors embraced one another and exchanged kind words before heading off to see the highly anticipated Disney film.
But before then, Benson spoke to "Entertainment Tonight" and shared nothing but praise for Bailey's "brilliant" performance as Ariel. "She doesn't need any advice from me," Benson laughed when asked if she helped Bailey prepare to become a real-life Disney princess. "I did get to meet her a few times and chat with her, and just to tell her how proud I was of her. But I love that she has a purity of heart and a pure spirit, and you...
But before then, Benson spoke to "Entertainment Tonight" and shared nothing but praise for Bailey's "brilliant" performance as Ariel. "She doesn't need any advice from me," Benson laughed when asked if she helped Bailey prepare to become a real-life Disney princess. "I did get to meet her a few times and chat with her, and just to tell her how proud I was of her. But I love that she has a purity of heart and a pure spirit, and you...
- 5/9/2023
- by Njera Perkins
- Popsugar.com
Halle Bailey is making a splash as the star of The Little Mermaid and during the Hollywood premiere of the Disney film she opened up about finally having audiences see her as Ariel on the big screen.
“This moment means everything to me, I’m so grateful to be here,” she said. “I just feel really honored and I’m happy the day has finally come where we can all watch it.”
When the trailer for the live-action film was released, reactions to Bailey as Ariel became a trend on social media. For Bailey, the cultural impact the film will have on the young people of color is important and something that she experienced growing up.
“It means the world to me, especially for the beautiful babies to be able to see a reflection of themselves,” she added. “I am just honored to be a part of this and be...
“This moment means everything to me, I’m so grateful to be here,” she said. “I just feel really honored and I’m happy the day has finally come where we can all watch it.”
When the trailer for the live-action film was released, reactions to Bailey as Ariel became a trend on social media. For Bailey, the cultural impact the film will have on the young people of color is important and something that she experienced growing up.
“It means the world to me, especially for the beautiful babies to be able to see a reflection of themselves,” she added. “I am just honored to be a part of this and be...
- 5/9/2023
- by Armando Tinoco
- Deadline Film + TV
Halle Bailey has shared her new rendition of The Little Mermaid classic, “Part of Your World.”
The song is one of the most famous from the original animated Little Mermaid, with Ariel excitedly dreaming of life on land and trying to get a handle on some human vocabulary. Over a lush orchestral arrangement, Bailey delivers a mighty vocal performance that makes the new recording feel like a fitting tribute to the original, sung by Jodi Benson.
The soundtrack for the live-action remake of The Little Mermaid will feature new recordings...
The song is one of the most famous from the original animated Little Mermaid, with Ariel excitedly dreaming of life on land and trying to get a handle on some human vocabulary. Over a lush orchestral arrangement, Bailey delivers a mighty vocal performance that makes the new recording feel like a fitting tribute to the original, sung by Jodi Benson.
The soundtrack for the live-action remake of The Little Mermaid will feature new recordings...
- 4/26/2023
- by Jon Blistein
- Rollingstone.com
You can now stream all of of Halle Bailey’s breathless new take on “The Little Mermaid” song “Part of Your World,” which Disney released Wednesday online.
Bailey stars as title character Ariel in the live-action remake, which hits theaters May 26. The soundtrack releases May 19.
The song, which is about Ariel’s desire to be part of the human world after seeing and falling in love with Prince Eric, was sung by Jodi Benson in the 1989 animated film. The dashing prince is played by Jonah Hauer-King in the live-action film. “Chicago” Oscar winner Rob Marshall directs.
Also Read:
‘The Little Mermaid': Melissa McCarthy Unveils First Look at Ursula
“Part of Your World” was written by lyricist Howard Ashman and composer Alan Menken.
Disney also released a YouTube visualizer video, which does not contain any footage, but which you can watch above. The first look at Melissa McCarthy as the wicked...
Bailey stars as title character Ariel in the live-action remake, which hits theaters May 26. The soundtrack releases May 19.
The song, which is about Ariel’s desire to be part of the human world after seeing and falling in love with Prince Eric, was sung by Jodi Benson in the 1989 animated film. The dashing prince is played by Jonah Hauer-King in the live-action film. “Chicago” Oscar winner Rob Marshall directs.
Also Read:
‘The Little Mermaid': Melissa McCarthy Unveils First Look at Ursula
“Part of Your World” was written by lyricist Howard Ashman and composer Alan Menken.
Disney also released a YouTube visualizer video, which does not contain any footage, but which you can watch above. The first look at Melissa McCarthy as the wicked...
- 4/26/2023
- by Sharon Knolle
- The Wrap
Jim Wilhelm, a theatrical agent who represented actors including Olivia de Havilland, Daniel Dae Kim, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Lea Salonga and Cybill Shepherd, has died. He was 68.
Wilhelm died Monday in New York after a brief battle with cancer, a publicist announced.
Wilhelm was one of the original founding partners of Douglas, Gorman, Rothacker & Wilhelm, one of New York’s most preeminent theatrical agencies since its inception in 1988. In 2010, he became the first theatrical agent to be made a voter for the Tony Awards.
Over the years, Wilhelm also counted as clients Lynn Cohen, Sandy Duncan, Lainie Kazan, Alice Ripley, Kathleen Chalfant, Elaine Paige, Sierra Boggess, Douglas Sills, Keala Settle, Paige O’Hara and Jodi Benson.
He served as the vice president of the board of directors of the National Association of Talent Representatives and was an active participant in, and a founding board member of, Broadway Cares, which assists those with HIV and AIDS.
Wilhelm died Monday in New York after a brief battle with cancer, a publicist announced.
Wilhelm was one of the original founding partners of Douglas, Gorman, Rothacker & Wilhelm, one of New York’s most preeminent theatrical agencies since its inception in 1988. In 2010, he became the first theatrical agent to be made a voter for the Tony Awards.
Over the years, Wilhelm also counted as clients Lynn Cohen, Sandy Duncan, Lainie Kazan, Alice Ripley, Kathleen Chalfant, Elaine Paige, Sierra Boggess, Douglas Sills, Keala Settle, Paige O’Hara and Jodi Benson.
He served as the vice president of the board of directors of the National Association of Talent Representatives and was an active participant in, and a founding board member of, Broadway Cares, which assists those with HIV and AIDS.
- 4/24/2023
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
"The Little Mermaid" was a vital turning point for Disney because it sparked The Disney Renaissance, a period of creative and financial prosperity during the late 1980s and 1990s. The films made during this time became instant classics due to their vivid re-imaginations of classic fairy tale stories and Broadway-style songwriting that gave audiences deeper connections to the characters.
Hiring lyricist Howard Ashman and composer Alan Menken for "The Little Mermaid," who worked on the hit musical "Little Shop of Horrors," shifted the songwriting process for a Disney film. While songs were always in Disney movies, they were never such a prominent part of the story's organization. "The Little Mermaid" set the standard for future Disney films where artists create dynamic animations of the characters and their world to convey the music's mood and emotions.
In a 2006 interview, IGN asked the co-director of "The Little Mermaid" Ron Clements, "s there...
Hiring lyricist Howard Ashman and composer Alan Menken for "The Little Mermaid," who worked on the hit musical "Little Shop of Horrors," shifted the songwriting process for a Disney film. While songs were always in Disney movies, they were never such a prominent part of the story's organization. "The Little Mermaid" set the standard for future Disney films where artists create dynamic animations of the characters and their world to convey the music's mood and emotions.
In a 2006 interview, IGN asked the co-director of "The Little Mermaid" Ron Clements, "s there...
- 4/10/2023
- by Caroline Madden
- Slash Film
It's been over three decades since 1989's "The Little Mermaid" premiered in theaters. This was the beginning of the Disney Renaissance in animation and a new era of Disney princesses. The story of the mermaid who wanted to forge her own path and live differently than the rest of her family is a classic of animation, and we're about to get a live-action version of the story based on the 1837 tale from Hans Christian Andersen. Things will be a bit different in this new telling, with star Halle Bailey saying that Ariel's story will have a more modern sensibility. That is to say that Prince Eric (Jonah Hauer-King) will not be the only reason for the drastic decision the mermaid makes to forgo her fins and get legs instead.
From even the small clips we've seen and heard from the film, it's clear that Bailey has an absolutely lovely voice.
From even the small clips we've seen and heard from the film, it's clear that Bailey has an absolutely lovely voice.
- 3/7/2023
- by Jenna Busch
- Slash Film
‘Guillermo Del Toro’s Pinocchio’ Wins Five Trophies Including the Top Prize at the 50th Annie Awards
Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio topped the 50th Annie Awards for animation, collecting five prizes including best animation feature, direction (del Toro and Mark Gustafson), character animation, music and production design.
“Fuck,” said del Toro as he and Gustafson took the stage to accept the directing award. “I hope to stay with you as peers with this beautiful, beautiful craft we have.” He noted that he’s been directing for 30 years and “the most creative ideas-filled group I worked with is animation.” Del Toro added his hope is that the community pushes the medium for future generations and “change the way we are perceived as a medium, not for us, but for the people coming up.” He got laughs and cheers as he wrapped by exclaiming, “Can I say, I wanted an Annie so much!”
Also Saturday at UCLA’s Royce Hall, Marcel the Shell with Shoes On won three awards,...
“Fuck,” said del Toro as he and Gustafson took the stage to accept the directing award. “I hope to stay with you as peers with this beautiful, beautiful craft we have.” He noted that he’s been directing for 30 years and “the most creative ideas-filled group I worked with is animation.” Del Toro added his hope is that the community pushes the medium for future generations and “change the way we are perceived as a medium, not for us, but for the people coming up.” He got laughs and cheers as he wrapped by exclaiming, “Can I say, I wanted an Annie so much!”
Also Saturday at UCLA’s Royce Hall, Marcel the Shell with Shoes On won three awards,...
- 2/26/2023
- by Carolyn Giardina
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The release of Disney's live-action remake of "The Little Mermaid" is swimming ever closer, and now, a new teaser is here to show you more of what's under the sea.
Disney released the first teaser for "The Little Mermaid" last September at D23 Expo, where /Film was on hand to provide a description of additional footage not shown online. Both the teaser and convention footage centered on a recreation of the "Part of Your World" sequence from the original 1989 animated version of "The Little Mermaid." We got a look at "Grown-ish" actress Halle Bailey, who is also one half of the musical duo Chloe x Halle, singing her heart out as the eponymous mermaid princess, Ariel. Since it was just a teaser, though, there wasn't much to see beyond some quick glimpses of sea turtles, coral, silhouettes, a mermaid fin, and the final shot of the new Ariel's live-action face.
Disney released the first teaser for "The Little Mermaid" last September at D23 Expo, where /Film was on hand to provide a description of additional footage not shown online. Both the teaser and convention footage centered on a recreation of the "Part of Your World" sequence from the original 1989 animated version of "The Little Mermaid." We got a look at "Grown-ish" actress Halle Bailey, who is also one half of the musical duo Chloe x Halle, singing her heart out as the eponymous mermaid princess, Ariel. Since it was just a teaser, though, there wasn't much to see beyond some quick glimpses of sea turtles, coral, silhouettes, a mermaid fin, and the final shot of the new Ariel's live-action face.
- 2/15/2023
- by Joshua Meyer
- Slash Film
(Welcome to The Daily Stream, an ongoing series in which the /Film team shares what they've been watching, why it's worth checking out, and where you can stream it.)
The Film: "Rapsittie Street Kids: Believe in Santa"
Where You Can Stream It: YouTube
The Pitch: Everyone that celebrates Christmas probably has a holiday movie that they watch to get them in the spirit. For some, it's the Rankin and Bass claymation specials. For others, it's "Die Hard." Growing up, "Elf" and "A Christmas Story" during its 24-hour marathon on TBS were my family's go-tos for Christmas morning cheer.
Of course, I still follow this tradition — I will defend "Elf" as a whimsically fun time until my dying breath. However, as I grew older and developed my own taste in films, I expanded my holiday watches. Nowadays, I turn on stuff like "Black Christmas" and the first two "Silent Night, Deadly Night" movies,...
The Film: "Rapsittie Street Kids: Believe in Santa"
Where You Can Stream It: YouTube
The Pitch: Everyone that celebrates Christmas probably has a holiday movie that they watch to get them in the spirit. For some, it's the Rankin and Bass claymation specials. For others, it's "Die Hard." Growing up, "Elf" and "A Christmas Story" during its 24-hour marathon on TBS were my family's go-tos for Christmas morning cheer.
Of course, I still follow this tradition — I will defend "Elf" as a whimsically fun time until my dying breath. However, as I grew older and developed my own taste in films, I expanded my holiday watches. Nowadays, I turn on stuff like "Black Christmas" and the first two "Silent Night, Deadly Night" movies,...
- 12/24/2022
- by Erin Brady
- Slash Film
With 2010's "Toy Story 3," Pixar and director Lee Unkrich were faced with punishingly high expectations. Besides the first two entries in the series being certified modern animated classics, there was also the question of purpose. For Pixar, a production company known at the time for its refusal to do sequels unless there was a story to justify one, to do a sequel over a decade after the previous entry, something good must have been in store.
The original "Toy Story," which was released in 1995, changed animation forever. Its 1999 sequel -- a moving allegory for the stages of life -- managed somehow to be even better. A follow-up couldn't simply take viewers back to the world of toy cowboy Woody (Tom Hanks) and toy astronaut Buzz (Tim Allen). Nor could it take the eventual route of "The Incredibles 2," which ignored the gap in time between movies. The series was always surprisingly deep,...
The original "Toy Story," which was released in 1995, changed animation forever. Its 1999 sequel -- a moving allegory for the stages of life -- managed somehow to be even better. A follow-up couldn't simply take viewers back to the world of toy cowboy Woody (Tom Hanks) and toy astronaut Buzz (Tim Allen). Nor could it take the eventual route of "The Incredibles 2," which ignored the gap in time between movies. The series was always surprisingly deep,...
- 12/19/2022
- by Anthony Crislip
- Slash Film
The Boss Baby: Christmas Bonus is a Dreamworks animation movie starring Ray Chase, Hope Levy and David Collins.
In this seasonal episode Boss Baby will take the place of one of Santa’s elves and, of course… a lot of trouble will ensue. Good luck, Santa!
Premise
Theodore “Ted” Templeton Jr. is back, and he is as resolute as ever. Christmas Eve takes a twisty turn when the Boss Baby accidentally swaps places with one of Santa’s elves and gets stranded at the North Pole.
About this Installment
A bit under an hour in duration, we are taken back to the Templetons, this time round they drag Theodore “Ted” Templeton Jr. to a hellscape of candy and fantasy that will require his resolute managerial skills to make it all work.
A definite hit for fans of the Boss Baby series, as they will get have some Christmas laughs with this number.
In this seasonal episode Boss Baby will take the place of one of Santa’s elves and, of course… a lot of trouble will ensue. Good luck, Santa!
Premise
Theodore “Ted” Templeton Jr. is back, and he is as resolute as ever. Christmas Eve takes a twisty turn when the Boss Baby accidentally swaps places with one of Santa’s elves and gets stranded at the North Pole.
About this Installment
A bit under an hour in duration, we are taken back to the Templetons, this time round they drag Theodore “Ted” Templeton Jr. to a hellscape of candy and fantasy that will require his resolute managerial skills to make it all work.
A definite hit for fans of the Boss Baby series, as they will get have some Christmas laughs with this number.
- 12/6/2022
- by TV Shows Martin Cid Magazine
- Martin Cid - TV
The original singing voice of Ariel in The Little Mermaid, Jodi Benson, has shared a video of her performing the 1989 movie’s songs in the recording studio.
Benson, 61, shared the clip on her TikTok account on Thursday 17 November, the 33rd anniversary of the Disney’s movie’s cinema release.
In the video, she can be seen receiving notes on the breathiness of her singing, with a colleague asking her to make the song “Part of Your World” sound more intimate.
“Today is 33 years of The Little Mermaid and I still love singing Howard [Ashman] and Alan [Menken]’s beautiful song!” she wrote in the caption. “I’m so honoured to be Part of Your World.”
Earlier this year, Benson praised the new Disney live-action adaptation of The Little Mermaid.
“So thrilled!!! So excited!!!” she wrote on Instagram.
“Halle [Bailey], you were absolutely amazing! I’m So proud of you and your beautiful performance as Ariel.
Benson, 61, shared the clip on her TikTok account on Thursday 17 November, the 33rd anniversary of the Disney’s movie’s cinema release.
In the video, she can be seen receiving notes on the breathiness of her singing, with a colleague asking her to make the song “Part of Your World” sound more intimate.
“Today is 33 years of The Little Mermaid and I still love singing Howard [Ashman] and Alan [Menken]’s beautiful song!” she wrote in the caption. “I’m so honoured to be Part of Your World.”
Earlier this year, Benson praised the new Disney live-action adaptation of The Little Mermaid.
“So thrilled!!! So excited!!!” she wrote on Instagram.
“Halle [Bailey], you were absolutely amazing! I’m So proud of you and your beautiful performance as Ariel.
- 11/18/2022
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - Film
Years before Angelina Jolie’s global superstardom, her aesthetic proved most similar to the “more European look” of Belle from “Beauty and the Beast.”
The 1991 Disney film was released the same year Jolie appeared in Lenny Kravitz’s “Stand by My Woman” music video and four years before Jolie’s big screen debut in 1995 film “Hackers.” Yet Jolie’s looks were the easiest point of comparison when describing the original concept art for Belle in “Beauty in the Beast,” according to voice actress Paige O’Hara.
“She kind of looked like Angelina Jolie — very beautiful,” O’Hara said in the book “Disney Princess: Beyond the Tiara,” as excerpted by Insider. “I didn’t see how anybody would identify with that person. You’d look at her and put her on a pedestal. [Animators] changed the look of her. She was a little too perfect.”
Disney animator James Baxter explained that they tried...
The 1991 Disney film was released the same year Jolie appeared in Lenny Kravitz’s “Stand by My Woman” music video and four years before Jolie’s big screen debut in 1995 film “Hackers.” Yet Jolie’s looks were the easiest point of comparison when describing the original concept art for Belle in “Beauty in the Beast,” according to voice actress Paige O’Hara.
“She kind of looked like Angelina Jolie — very beautiful,” O’Hara said in the book “Disney Princess: Beyond the Tiara,” as excerpted by Insider. “I didn’t see how anybody would identify with that person. You’d look at her and put her on a pedestal. [Animators] changed the look of her. She was a little too perfect.”
Disney animator James Baxter explained that they tried...
- 9/21/2022
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Trevor Noah does not want to be part of a world with racist trolls.
After the first footage of Disney’s upcoming live-action remake of “The Little Mermaid” featured lead star Halle Bailey singing “Part of Your World,” the teaser trailer received online backlash, triggering 1.5 million “dislikes” on YouTube before the rating feature was disabled. Bailey was cast as Ariel in 2019, leading to a #NotMyAriel racist Twitter campaign. The new teaser for the film reignited the color-blind casting debate.
“Really, people — we’re doing this again?” Trevor Noah slammed the criticism that Bailey looks “nothing like” the animated Ariel from the 1989 Oscar-winning animated film. “Nothing like? They both have the tail, they both have the red [hair].”
The “The Daily Show with Trevor Noah” host continued, “Once again, a bunch of internet racists are upset that a fictional character is being played by a Black person. This is so ridiculous.”
“The...
After the first footage of Disney’s upcoming live-action remake of “The Little Mermaid” featured lead star Halle Bailey singing “Part of Your World,” the teaser trailer received online backlash, triggering 1.5 million “dislikes” on YouTube before the rating feature was disabled. Bailey was cast as Ariel in 2019, leading to a #NotMyAriel racist Twitter campaign. The new teaser for the film reignited the color-blind casting debate.
“Really, people — we’re doing this again?” Trevor Noah slammed the criticism that Bailey looks “nothing like” the animated Ariel from the 1989 Oscar-winning animated film. “Nothing like? They both have the tail, they both have the red [hair].”
The “The Daily Show with Trevor Noah” host continued, “Once again, a bunch of internet racists are upset that a fictional character is being played by a Black person. This is so ridiculous.”
“The...
- 9/16/2022
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
I'll start this with a confession: I'm not a huge fan of Pixar films. As a cinema lover, I appreciate all the beautiful artwork that goes into them. However, I don't feel the emotional connection to these stories that others do. Of course, I'm always relieved when Woody and the gang find their way back to Andy or when Nemo and his dad finally reunite. But none of the animated films are on my binge-watch or favorites list. However, I am a complete and total sucker for all the old-school Disney animated movies.
I love "Mulan," "Beauty and the Beast," and, my absolute favorite, "The Little Mermaid." I'm sure my affinity for these movies is somewhat dependent on nostalgia, but I feel a connection to them that I don't for Pixar's newer and flashier films. Those who grew up in the late-'80s to early-'90s can recite lines and...
I love "Mulan," "Beauty and the Beast," and, my absolute favorite, "The Little Mermaid." I'm sure my affinity for these movies is somewhat dependent on nostalgia, but I feel a connection to them that I don't for Pixar's newer and flashier films. Those who grew up in the late-'80s to early-'90s can recite lines and...
- 9/14/2022
- by Christian Gainey
- Slash Film
Once upon a time, the Disney corporation was not the most powerful entertainment entity on the planet and arbiter of all mainstream media, and was, in fact, at the risk of shuttering its doors for good. All of that changed with the Disney Renaissance, the period between 1989 and 1999 that was jam-packed with animated smash-hits for the House of Mouse, and established the roots of what would become their current empire.
The period kicked off with an animated musical adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen's 1837 fairy tale, "The Little Mermaid." Featuring a beloved performance by living Disney legend Jodi Benson, "The Little Mermaid" was a massive financial success for the company and brought home two Academy Awards for Best Original Song ("Under the Sea") and Best Original Score.
Now, over three decades later, "The Little Mermaid" is getting a live-action adaptation starring Halle Bailey as the mermaid Ariel. There's been a...
The period kicked off with an animated musical adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen's 1837 fairy tale, "The Little Mermaid." Featuring a beloved performance by living Disney legend Jodi Benson, "The Little Mermaid" was a massive financial success for the company and brought home two Academy Awards for Best Original Song ("Under the Sea") and Best Original Score.
Now, over three decades later, "The Little Mermaid" is getting a live-action adaptation starring Halle Bailey as the mermaid Ariel. There's been a...
- 9/12/2022
- by BJ Colangelo
- Slash Film
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.