Disney’s live-action remake of The Little Mermaid has made a significant splash at the box office with the No. 1 spot worldwide, surpassing all expectations. With a black female lead, the film has set a new record for the highest opening ever in this category.
The anticipation surrounding The Little Mermaid has been immense, and it has lived up to the hype. Based on Disney’s beloved animated classic, this live-action remake is poised to become one of the studio’s most successful adaptations. Starring singer and actor Halle Bailey as Ariel, the film celebrates Black excellence and representation on the big screen.
Opening in 4,320 theaters, The Little Mermaid has shattered records for a film with a black female lead. The film surpassed the previous record held by Jordan Peele’s Us, starring Lupita N’yongo, which opened to $71.1 million in 2019. With an estimated opening of $97 million, The Little Mermaid is a testament to the popularity and appeal of the story, coupled with the exceptional performance of Halle Bailey.
The film’s success can be attributed to its groundbreaking casting, wide appeal, and nostalgic charm. Audiences of all ages have flocked to theaters to witness the enchanting underwater world and captivating characters come to life.
Impressive Box Office Results
The box office numbers speak volumes about the impact of The Little Mermaid. In its preview screenings on May 25, the film amassed $10.3 million, making it the seventh-highest preview gross for a G- or PG-rated movie.
Additionally, it collected $850,000 from early access screenings on Wednesday, May 24. With a projected $121 million in earnings over the holiday weekend, The Little Mermaid was set to dominate the box office.
This remarkable performance has propelled the film to the top spot, dethroning last week’s champion, Fast X. The action sequel from Universal will settle for second place with an estimated $27 million to $30 million in its second weekend.
The success of The Little Mermaid showcases the film’s strong appeal and highlights the enduring popularity of Disney’s animated classics. The studio’s commitment to reviving beloved stories with live-action adaptations continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
A Stellar Cast & Production
Aside from Halle Bailey’s extraordinary portrayal of Ariel, The Little Mermaid boasts a star-studded cast. Melissa McCarthy delivers a memorable performance as the evil sea witch Ursula, while Jonah Hauer-King brings charm to the role of Prince Eric.
Javier Bardem portrays King Triton with a regal presence, and Daveed Diggs lends his voice to the beloved character Sebastian, the crab. Jacob Tremblay provides the voice of Flounder, the fish, and Awkwafina adds her comedic flair as Scuttle, the seabird.
Directed by Rob Marshall and with a budget of approximately $250 million, The Little Mermaid is a visual spectacle that transports viewers to a magical underwater realm. The film’s stunning cinematography, mesmerizing visual effects, and enchanting musical numbers breathe new life into the beloved tale.
Prior to the movie premiere, Disney faced immense racist backlash for choosing Halle, a Black female, to play Ariel. Director Rob Marshall broke his silence, recognizing Black excellence and affirming that Halle was a “perfect fit” for the role.
In other Little Mermaid news, before the movie premiere, Halle Bailey shared the first look at a “Little Mermaid” lookalike doll, adding to the film’s excitement.
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