As a grumpy old man, I can confidently say that the 2023 adaptation of “The Little Mermaid” is a complete waste of time. This movie, based on the classic fairytale by Hans Christian Andersen, is nothing more than a childish spectacle designed to entertain children.
The storyline is predictable and unoriginal, filled with tired cliches and cheesy dialogue. The characters are one-dimensional and lack depth, making it difficult to invest in their journey. Even the animated version from 1989 was more enjoyable, at least it had a bit of heart.
The worst part of this film is the music. The songs are mind-numbingly repetitive and are clearly aimed at a younger audience. As an adult man, I found myself cringing throughout the entire musical sequence.
The visual effects are the only redeeming quality of this film, but even they are not enough to save it. The underwater scenes are beautifully rendered, but the overall visual style is too bright and colourful for my taste. I prefer films with a darker, more mature aesthetic.
In conclusion, “The Little Mermaid” (2023) is a movie that I wouldn’t recommend to anyone over the age of 10. It lacks the depth and complexity of a truly great film, and its musical numbers are grating to the ears. While I understand the appeal of this movie for younger viewers, as a grown adult man, I found it to be a tedious and forgettable experience.