Ahoy, Disney fans! We’ve got a spicy piece of news straight from the magical world of Disney! John Musker, the legendary director behind the 1989 animated classic “The Little Mermaid,” has made waves with his critique of the 2023 live-action remake. Speaking to Variety at the Cannes Film Festival, Musker, who also co-directed favorites like “Aladdin” and “Moana,” didn’t hold back on his opinions.

Musker lamented that the remake lacked the heart and expressive animation that made the original so enchanting. He specifically criticized the realistic CGI depictions of beloved characters like Sebastian and Flounder. According to Musker, these characters lost their charming and exaggerated expressiveness that is quintessential to Disney’s animated storytelling. He even compared their lack of expression to live animals, stating they could portray more emotion, much like the critique received by the live-action “The Lion King.”

But Musker’s critique goes deeper: he sees the trend of live-action remakes as a risk-averse move that sometimes sacrifices the originality and emotional depth of classic tales. He particularly missed the father-daughter storyline’s impact in the new “Little Mermaid,” expressing that such elements are crucial to the storytelling magic Disney is known for.

Musker also touched on the broader trend of incorporating overt political messaging into these remakes. While he acknowledged the importance of progressive themes, he argued that they shouldn’t overshadow the soul of the story and its characters. “The classic Disney films didn’t start out trying to have a message. They wanted you to get involved in the characters, the story, and the world,” Musker elaborated. He emphasized the need for a balanced approach that prioritizes engaging narratives.

Despite his criticisms, it’s clear that Musker’s love for animation and storytelling endures. His perspectives are a heartfelt plea for Disney to honor its legacy by staying true to the essence of their animated treasures, rather than merely focusing on visual spectacle. His call to action is for adaptations that respect the original spirit and charm that has won the hearts of audiences for generations.

What are your thoughts on John Musker’s critique of “The Little Mermaid” live-action remake? Do you agree with his views on maintaining the magic of Disney’s original animations? Share your thoughts in the comments below! And don’t forget to share this article with fellow Disney enthusiasts—let’s keep the conversation going!

For more details, read the full interview on Variety [here](https://variety.com/2024/film/news/disney-course-correction-political-messaging-little-mermaid-aladdin-director-1236016793/).

### Cited Sources:
– Variety: [Interview with John Musker](https://variety.com/2024/film/news/disney-course-correction-political-messaging-little-mermaid-aladdin-director-1236016793/)

### Credits:
– Article by: Natalie
– Images: Geek Culture