Debate on Casting Choices in The Little Mermaid Live Action Adaptation

The recent move by Disney to cast a non-white actress as Ariel in the upcoming The Little Mermaid live-action adaptation has sparked a series of discussions and debates. However, what about the role of Ursula, the enigmatic and ambitious antagonist? Why wasn't a similar diversity consideration applied to her casting?

Addressing the Casting Controversy

The reasons cited for casting Bailey for Ariel do not seem to apply equally to Ursula. Ursula is a supporting character and not a career-maker in her own right. Similar to how Ursula's character was modeled heavily after a drag queen, there is no compelling reason to cast the latest teenage singer/actress for that role. In fact, Ursula's character requires a more mature and less attractive appearance to fit the narrative, which may play out better with an older actress.

Issues with Diversity and Stereotypes

There is a concern that casting a white actress for Ursula, while trying to emphasize diversity with Ariel, may result in a misguided and potentially polarizing decision. Changing the character of Ursula to fit a different type of actress would not only be seen as a step back in representation but could also be met with anger from the community. Ursula is often portrayed as an interesting character who is unattractive and full of envy; being morbidly obese could enhance her character, even if some individuals might find it offensive to associate body size with attractiveness.

Character Focus and Portrayal

The question to ask is why being white is particularly important for Ariel and why being fat is important for Ursula. The role of Ursula is not only to be ugly but also to be a villainous character who desires what Ariel has. Her character as an overweight, unattractive, and jealous being enhances the story's dynamics. Similarly, Ariel's race, while important, does not necessarily need to adhere to a Danish aesthetic. She is a mythical and exotic creature, so her appearance is more fluid and could be anywhere within a range that fits the story.

Conclusion

Disney's approach to reimagining The Little Mermaid is a delicate balancing act between diversity and character integrity. While the casting of a non-white actress for Ariel is a step towards inclusivity, the choice for Ursula needs to be made with careful consideration of the character's essence. The narrative impact of making Ursula an appealing character might diminish the story's enchanting and emotionally resonant elements. The diversity of casting must be celebrated but must not come at the cost of authenticity and the integrity of the character's representation.