In the live-action version of “The Little Mermaid” we will hear songs known from animation again, but the creators do not hide that it was necessary to adapt some of the texts to the present day. According to the creators, some of the issues “aged badly”, and some may even be controversial. In an interview he recently gave music to both productions, Alan Menken indicated which songs he was referring to.
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“The Little Mermaid” has undergone several changes in the lyrics of the songs. “People have become very sensitive”
The composer admitted that it was necessary to make some corrections to the songs from the original animation. – There are some changes to the lyrics of “Kiss the Girl” [“Całuj ją” – przyp. red.], because people have become very sensitive Menken noted in an interview. Reason? Suggestions that Prince Eric might impose himself on Ariel in any way. However, it was not the only song that had to be adapted to contemporary expectations. – In “Poor Unfortunate Souls” [w Polsce znane jako “Wyznanie Urszuli”] we made some verse tweaks that might make young girls feel like they shouldn’t speak without asking,” added the composer.
Also Halle Bailey, who played the title role in the film, emphasized that the film would be modernized and adapted to the current expectations of viewers. She sacrificed everything for the man. I don’t think that reflects the beliefs of modern women. Now it’s more about Ariel finding freedom for herself – she admitted in an interview with the magazine Prince Eric is just “the icing on the cake”.
“The Little Mermaid” 2023. Premiere in May
Alan Menken scored the 1989 animation, including the songs. He is also the author of music for “The Hunchback of Notre Dame”, “Pocahontas”, “Beauty and the Beast” or “Hercules”, and has many hits to his credit, awarded with four Oscars (he has eight in total). Apart from Alan Menken, Lin-Manuel Miranda, the creator of the cult musical “Hamilton” and songs from the animation “My Magical Encanto”, is responsible for the music in the live-action version of “The Little Mermaid”. “The Little Mermaid” will hit Polish cinemas on May 26, 2023.
Source: Gazeta
Bruce is a talented author and journalist with a passion for entertainment . He currently works as a writer at the 247 News Agency, where he has established himself as a respected voice in the industry.
