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Fans dig Melissa McCarthy's Ursula in Disney's 'The Little Mermaid' posters but Flounder bombs badly

The new 'Little Mermaid' character posters have had mixed reaction with more love showered on some characters over others

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Disney has steadily been pumping out live-action versions of their past hits that they know already have a huge and dedicated fan following. For now, the American entertainment conglomerate has its eyes set on the May 26 release of the animated feature ‘The Little Mermaid’. The publicity trailers and posters have been on point, keeping ardent fans on their toes and expectant. 

The movie stars Halle Bailey in the titular role of Ariel, a mermaid who negotiates a deal with a sea witch to trade her voice for human legs. Jonah Hauer-King stars as Prince Eric, whom Ariel falls in love with after saving him from a shipwreck. Javier Bardem stars as King Triton, Ariel’s father, and the legendary Melissa McCarthy plays Ursula, the evil sea witch who offers Ariel the deal which helps her transform into a human. Jacob Tremblay will voice Flounder, the anxious fish who happens to be Ariel’s best friend. The movie’s release is inching closer and Disney has upped the ante by releasing a string of posters from the film. It’s like a feeding frenzy for the fans who now have a closer look at their beloved characters from ‘The Little Mermaid.’ 

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Hailey Bailey and Jonah Hauer-King shine as Ariel and Prince Eric

Halle Bailey, who has been cast to play the title role of the singing mermaid Ariel, looks sensational. She comes across as breathtaking and her subtle facial expressions add to the innocence of the character. A user commented on Ariel’s poster, “The best cast in a while! Disney, you did good!” while another commented, “I'm saving the date if my boss don't allow me, then I quit.” A user took note of both Prince Eric and Ariel’s poster and was quick to comment, “They look so good!! I will be watching for them”

What is up with Melissa McCarthy’s Ursula?

Melissa McCarthy is the genuine revelation in these ‘Little Mermaid’ posters. She shines in tremendous transformation and embodies the role of the evil Ursula, who lives at the bottom of the sea. Fans were haunted, yet excited to see her take up the role of Ursula. “She is mother and will be seated” was the contention of one fan who couldn't control the excitement of watching McCarthy in a villainous role. One other fan wrote, “Absolutely stunning! Great casting!” Disney has so far won with its casting choices but all is not well since the studio has been criticized for one character.

Flounder’s a disappointment

The fish who follows Ariel around has not received any praise from the fans. Fans were brutal in their takes where one mentioned, “I could’ve gone my entire life without seeing this and have been fine” after watching Flounder’s poster. One remarked with a meme saying, “Why did he do it?” There were many more. “Flounder looks like he would taste amazing with some tartar sauce.” Fans were clearly not happy to see what Disney had done to their beloved fish. 

But despite mixed reactions to the posters, fans are on board and waiting for the film’s release. 

‘The Little Mermaid’ releases next month on May 26, 2023