Scuttle, voiced by Awkwafina, Flounder voiced by Jacob Tremblay, and Halle Bailey as Ariel appear in “The Little Mermaid.” The OSV News classification is A-I -- general patronage. (OSV News photo/Disney)

By OSV News

Charming live-action remake of the classic 1989 animated musical derived from Hans Christian Andersen’s 1837 tale centers, as before, on the sea creature of the title (Halle Bailey). When her insatiable curiosity about life on dry land leads her to fall for a human prince (Jonah Hauer-King), the romance causes a conflict with her overprotective father (Javier Bardem) and makes her vulnerable to the machinations of her estranged aunt (Melissa McCarthy), a scheming, embittered octopus. It will take the aid of the lass’ two closest companions, a harried crab (voice of Daveed Diggs) and a scatterbrained gannet (voice of Awkwafina), to bring about a happy ending.

As scripted by David Magee, director Rob Marshall’s sprightly re-imagining, while too scary for tots, will delight all others. Adults will note that dad and daughter learn complementary lessons from the adventure and ultimately demonstrate their enduring love for each other.

Potentially frightening scenes of characters in peril and of thoroughly stylized violence. The OSV News classification is A-I — general patronage. The Motion Picture Association rating is PG — parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children.

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