Disney Princesses have long been associated with fantasy and whimsicality, while also reinforcing narrow definitions of womanhood, beauty, and love.
Disney's 1989 animated classic, "The Little Mermaid", revolutionized their movie-making formula and inspired many other films to follow suit.
1. She’s a Mermaid
Halle Bailey recently took to Instagram with an inspiring post, channeling The Little Mermaid on her relaxing tropical vacation. Wearing a baby pink, gold-link chain bikini she posed in a swing chair somewhere tropical.
Disney's live-action remake of their 1989 animated classic will hit theaters May 26. Since being cast, 22-year-old actress Chloe Bailey was an invaluable support during production and made this experience much smoother for her.
Ariel is one of Disney's most beloved princesses, known for her charming personality and spunky attitude that often comes to mind when people think of the iconic character. Rob Marshall will direct this live-action re-imagining, having previously directed musicals such as Chicago and "Into the Woods." In addition, Lin-Manuel Miranda, John DeLucas and Marc Platt will produce the movie along with Alan Menken providing soundtrack songs.
To maintain her physical fitness for this role, Bailey kept in shape by running on a treadmill, lifting weights and swimming several times each week - sometimes spending as long as 13 hours at once in the water!
Though Ariel presented new challenges, she knew it would help her grow as an actress. At the D23 Expo she shared that as she developed along with the character as she filmed. As part of that experience she discovered both her strengths and her weaknesses; something every actor must keep in mind while working towards their career goals.
After finishing training for The Little Mermaid, Bailey went on to star in a Broadway production of Alice Walker's 1982 Pulitzer Prize-winning novel "The Color Purple." Additionally, she sings with Atlanta-based sister duo Chloe x Halle; who earned a Grammy nomination and are supported by Beyonce and Michelle Obama.
Halle Bailey has quickly established herself as one of Hollywood's rising young stars with her role as Ariel in Disney's live-action reimagination of The Little Mermaid. Additionally, she serves as an ambassador for a program known as Disney Dreamers Academy which encourages young girls and teens to pursue artistic careers.
2. She’s a Princess
Disney's live-action remake of The Little Mermaid gives Ariel her chance to venture forth from her underwater kingdom onto dry land in an emotional relationship with human Prince Eric.
In The Little Mermaid trailer, Ariel overcomes her fear of swimming to the surface in order to save a drowning man. Although this isn't the first time we've seen a mermaid do this, this particular moment sets Ariel against King Triton who doesn't approve.
Melissa McCarthy stars as Ursula, a sea witch who attempts to convince Ariel to become human. Although this alters the original plotline of Ariel, this twist serves to underscore Ariel's passion for life above water.
But Bailey's casting as Ariel in The Little Mermaid has generated considerable online backlash. Fans familiar with seeing Ariel as a white princess have expressed outrage that Ariel has become more visible as a Black actress in this version of the tale.
However, Disney has cast Black princesses before; for instance in 1997 Brandy played Cinderella.
At first it came as quite a shock when Halle Bailey, best known for her work with Chloe Bailey under the name Chloe x Halle, was cast to play Ariel in Disney's live-action version of The Little Mermaid. However, her casting ignited racist responses, leading many to trend the hashtag #NotMyAriel on social media platforms such as Twitter.
Even amid criticism, Bailey remains undeterred in her role and believes her Ariel performance will be successful. She hopes that by taking on this character and providing an alternate take, she can inspire children to believe in themselves and take chances on life.
She believes the experience will transform her into a better person and leader, too. When asked about what they had learned during their time on set, the most significant lesson was "letting down your guard and trusting yourself", adding that having support makes overcoming obstacles much simpler.
3. She’s a Black Girl
If you're a child or young adult, chances are good that you have an adorable Disney princess doll you adore. Not only can these collectible dolls provide hours of educational fun and enjoyment for young girls and boys, they can also serve as sources of motivation when made with care and consideration by loved ones.
Halle Bailey's Ariel Doll stands out from the competition as being unique because she represents Black Women instead of traditional Disney Princes.
Many consider Ariel one of the most iconic Disney characters ever created, representing everything that is wonderful about being a princess: her sweet disposition, love of singing and search for identity in life are hallmarks of excellence for any young lady trying to find their place in society.
So when Disney decided to reimagine The Little Mermaid as a live-action film, they needed someone who embodied these characteristics - Halle Bailey was chosen.
Halle is currently playing Ariel in Disney's live-action remake of The Little Mermaid. Her sister Chloe and she, known as Chloe x Halle, began uploading covers of songs onto YouTube when they were teenagers before signing with Beyonce's Parkwood Entertainment label later.
Since 2005, Bailey has spent her time building up an impressive musical career. To date, she has released three full-length albums and collaborated on numerous others with various artists.
Through her years as a mother to Jackson, she has experienced many unforgettable moments in her life. These are now some of her greatest triumphs as an educator.
Since then, she's made strides to disprove stereotypes surrounding herself and her family. She's learned flexibility while tapping into her strengths.
Bailey has established herself as both an accomplished actress and singer, as well as being an active athlete - she enjoys running and yoga among many other things.
According to reports, she enjoys playing video games with her friends. She even runs her own YouTube channel. A true multitasker, she manages her acting and music careers alongside family life and relationships.
4. She’s a Toy
Halle Bailey will make an unforgettable debut as Ariel in Disney's forthcoming live-action The Little Mermaid film. Her voice is powerful, and she can give the role its own special touch. Ariel is an important addition to their classic lineup of princesses while at the same time serving as an opportunity for new audiences to be introduced to its story.
Ariel's journey to find her true self, love and independence resonates deeply with many Black girls. Bailey grew up in Atlanta before making the move to Los Angeles at an early age. Her character Ariel is "very special to me, someone I look up to a great deal".
She will find strength in herself to pursue her goals and follow her heart - being open to new experiences can be key!
Toys can be an engaging way to bring the characters of Disney movies to life. There are a range of Ariel-inspired toys available, ranging from water play dolls and interactive ones with special features to more passive versions that let children explore her world underwater.
These products come in all price ranges and make an ideal present for any Disney fan. Some are specifically tailored to The Little Mermaid while others form part of a wider Disney Princess line and can also feature other princesses.
This Disney Princess Ariel Doll features a removable outfit and pair of shoes, perfect for children engaging in imaginative play. Furthermore, its durable construction ensures safety and long-term use by young ones.
This Ariel Doll from Little Mermaid or Disney will make an ideal present for any Little Mermaid fan or Disney enthusiast! Young children will be inspired to unleash their imagination and discover their own special beauty through playing with this doll.
This doll comes complete with earrings inspired by Ariel's iconic jewelery - making it the ideal present for any little girl who adores Ariel!
Are you shopping for an Ariel lover on a budget? The Disney Ariel Swimsuit makes the ideal present! Featuring Ariel's iconic colors with its purple push-up top and metallic green scale design bottom.
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