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Many Disney fans have strong opinions about the upcoming live-action adaptation of the 1989 Little Mermaid movie (and strong opinions about actress Halle Bailey, who is playing Ariel in the new Disney film) — but despite the naysayers, the world of science is apparently on Bailey’s side!
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In an interview with Wild Elements, marine biologist and TV host Danni Washington (who was described by Wild Elements as “Bill Nye with better lipstick”) spoke about some recent groundbreaking shifts in the world of single-use plastic, some jaw-dropping uses for seaweed, the underappreciated talents of Mantis Shrimp (who are “gorgeous but…pack a punch”), and the relevance of Halle Bailey’s big new role.
Danni Washington confirmed that the original movie is “obviously [her] favorite Disney animated film”, and added that “the fact that Halle Bailey is playing Ariel is a game-changer”.
“She’s just a beautiful soul, and she realizes the impact of saying ‘yes’ to a role like Ariel,” Washington explained. However, the marine biologist and ocean conservation expert also pointed out another benefit that will hopefully come from Bailey’s new movie!
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“I’m just excited to see the tidal wave of excited little boys and girls who are ready to become mer-people and want to get in the ocean, and learn how to swim,” Washington said. “That’s a huge deal for me, because I think one of the least talked-about factors when it comes to ocean conservation is a lack of connection. In my opinion, that is the number one barrier to entry when it comes to ocean conservation”.
“You have to be able to immerse yourself in a space to fall in love with it,” the marine biologist pointed out. “But if people feel too scared to go in the water, it’s almost impossible to connect with the ocean in a meaningful way”.
Halle Bailey as Ariel in the upcoming live-action ‘Little Mermaid’ Disney movie from Rob Marshall. The movie also stars Javier Bardem and Melissa McCarthy. Credit: Disney
‘It’s totally respectable and understandable to be afraid of the ocean—it’s a wild place! But my dream is that The Little Mermaid will inspire this next generation of kids to learn how to swim and connect to the ocean on a real, personal level. That’s going to be a big step forward for all of us,” Washington declared.
Do you already make an effort to pick up trash on the beach, avoid single-use plastics, and use reef-safe or reef-friendly sunscreen when you swim in the ocean? Has Ariel the little mermaid (and Disney princess) ever inspired you to go for a swim and treat marine life with kindness?
