Films about mermaids have always captivated the imaginations of filmmakers, drawing in large audiences to create intriguing characters that are both beautiful and mysterious. Unlike the typical stunningly beautiful mermaids with flawless hair, there exists a controversial mermaid that has sparked significant debate among film enthusiasts.
Controversy Surrounding the “Colorful Mermaid”
The live-action The Little Mermaid has become one of the hottest dramas of the summer 2023. Rarely has a film created such a buzz before its release, garnering a substantial amount of memes and mixed reviews, alongside whispers of criticism that are hard to ignore.
Halle Bailey, the actress of color portraying Ariel in the film, faced backlash regarding her appearance, which has been a topic of discussion for a long time. With the goal of breaking down stereotypes related to race and beauty, Halle Bailey has ignited controversy with her portrayal of a colorful mermaid, particularly with her dreadlock hairstyle, which reportedly cost over $150,000 (approximately 3.5 billion VND according to Page Six).
Disney has taken a bold step in casting an actress outside the traditional mold of a princess, which has raised eyebrows among many. There are numerous opinions suggesting that the issue is not about race but rather about the perceived “ugliness” of the character, as well as the disconnect between the character’s appearance and the traditional narrative associated with The Little Mermaid.
Despite the detractors, the live-action The Little Mermaid has received praise for its visuals, music, and Halle Bailey’s performance. She has truly shined in the role of Ariel, even though this role might not perfectly align with the actress’s image. Additionally, the content remains faithful to the original tale, with nearly 90% of it taken from the classic story, visuals, and impressive CGI, providing an engaging experience for younger audiences. The Little Mermaid is considered a major breakthrough for Disney as they potentially determine the future of live-action films, following numerous successes and failures in the past.
According to CNN, the film The Little Mermaid has achieved $185.8 million in international box office sales during its opening weekend, with an astounding 95% rating on Rotten Tomatoes from viewers.
Overall, the film has not yet fully captured audiences but has come close to its target. The film’s themes of love, belonging, and the meaning of “breaking boundaries” are consistently highlighted throughout. The 2023 version is a more robust and impactful rendition compared to the 1989 animated version. Disney’s challenge lies in bringing the movie to life while ensuring that viewers still recognize the outcome, as the character’s portrayals are far more dynamic.
Jeon Ji Hyun as the Iconic “Mermaid” Shim Chung
From the renowned “Queen of the Room” as seen in My Sassy Girl – the highest-grossing film in South Korean history, Jeon Ji Hyun continues to make waves with her portrayal of the mermaid in The Legend of the Blue Sea. The film has achieved remarkable ratings, scoring 4.8/5 from over 7 million viewers. “My Sassy Girl” exemplifies her status in K-Drama as the only actress to be ranked among the top 10 best performers in 2016.
Jeon Ji Hyun has left a powerful impression as the mermaid Shim Chung. The actress has dedicated herself to preparing for the role, undergoing rigorous training and immersing herself in water for long periods. She consistently embodies elegance in her portrayal, showcasing sophistication, grace, and the transformative talent that captivates audiences. Moreover, her character’s personality and stunning appearances in the series have endeared her to fans, making her an unforgettable presence.
Mermaid Yeo Hee – “The Fresh Breeze” of My Roommate is a Gumiho
Alongside renowned actors such as Kim So Yeon and Kim Bum, the character Yeo Hee has made quite an impression in the portrayal of a mermaid in My Roommate is a Gumiho. Yeo Hee has two personas: by day, she is a store employee, while by night, she transforms into a stunning singer. Her melodious voice is a powerful tool to captivate the audience. The mermaid character portrays a naive personality that seeks sincere love, continuously yearning for affection from Lee Rang, yet he remains oblivious to her feelings.
In her role as the mermaid Yeo Hee in My Roommate is a Gumiho, Woo Hyun Jin made a striking impression as this was her debut in acting. The 90s actress has left a lasting impression with her stunning looks and strong performance, seamlessly fitting into her character without overshadowing the other lead actors. She and Kim Bum created many memorable moments, captivating audiences with their chemistry.
Beyond the mermaid character, the film skillfully weaves in familiar figures from the story of youth and society, such as the charming gentleman and the gumiho.
Marian Rivera Shines as Dyesebel in Dyesebel
Dyesebel, featuring the participation of Marian Rivera, has made a significant impact on the Philippine film industry. “The Mermaid” role is a fierce fight for love, breaking free from the confines of her underwater world, determined to embark on a life dictated by nature, despite the challenges and dangers ahead.
Marian Rivera has built a strong image as the character Dyesebel over nearly 15 years, making it difficult for any mermaid to escape the shadow of her role. Despite being a devoted wife to Dingdong Dantes and a mother of two, she remains a prominent figure in the industry, representing the standard of “the most beautiful mermaid in the universe.”
Princess Mera in Aquaman Faces Backlash
The stunning visuals of Aquaman have created quite a stir in the international film industry. On HBO Go, the film received a rating of 4.4/5, with numerous positive reviews. In the first part, Amber Heard made a significant impression as Princess Mera – the love interest of Aquaman. This role helped “the most beautiful woman in the universe” reach new heights, solidifying her place amongst Hollywood’s brightest stars.
However, the ongoing legal battles between Amber Heard and ex-husband Johnny Depp led to her being dropped from Aquaman 2, where she faced backlash from over 4.5 million fans who signed a petition for her removal. Amidst this controversy, Amber Heard has been actively promoting the second installment, although her appearances have been limited. In the recent trailer, the actress made a brief appearance during a fight scene, with no notable dialogue. Despite this, Aquaman: The Lost Kingdom is still considered a major quality project from DC in the near future.
Lâm Duẫn Captivates in My Sassy Girl
The film by “King of Comedy” Châu Tinh Trì, My Sassy Girl, has made a significant impact, becoming the highest-grossing film in the Chinese film industry, breaking box office records with 2.43 billion CNY (382 million USD), surpassing films like Kung Fu Hustle, Shaolin Soccer, and boosting 2016’s box office revenue by over 150% compared to 2015.
Lâm Duẫn is considered one of the most beautiful actresses in the film industry, known for her stunning beauty and captivating presence in My Sassy Girl. She made a significant impact by surpassing 120,000 applicants, securing a high-profile role in a film renowned for its vibrant beauty standards. However, her portrayal has drawn various responses, with some dismissing her as a “fake princess,” leading to speculation about her future appearances.
On March 7, Lâm Duẫn left Châu Tinh Trì’s entertainment company, ending an 8-year partnership. The actress is now shifting her focus towards independent development in the entertainment field, distancing herself from the controversies surrounding her past roles. My Sassy Girl 2 was filmed in 2019, but its release has been delayed due to necessary edits and adjustments.
The films exploring the mermaid archetype with a fresh perspective have consistently attracted audiences, despite numerous portrayals over the years. Each actress brings a unique interpretation to the character, enriching the narrative with depth and intrigue.
