"Black Star" Disney's Little Mermaid is based on a fairy tale, but it doesn't get all the viewers in the U.S.Why?

[Mediment News Reporter Kim Min-jung] Attention is drawn to the background of the news that Disney's live-action film "The Little Mermaid," which drew attention for casting black actors, did not receive a full audience rating.

 

According to the U.S. film site Film Ratings on the 5th (Korea Standard Time), 'The Little Mermaid' received a PG rating. The PG rating is for viewers aged 7 or older, and requires guidance from guardians when viewing. Film Ratings explained the purpose of rating "The Little Mermaid" because "there are action and risk factors, and images that can create some fear are included."

 

Usually, animated films receive a G rating, which is the overall audience. The animated film of 'The Little Mermaid' also received a G rating. Many animated live-action films also receive G-rated ratings. However, in the case of the live-action version of the "Mermaid" film, foreign media analysts say it is not surprising to receive a PG rating because Disney's live-action film is produced for children, not infants.

 

Earlier, the live-action film of "The Little Mermaid" was controversial due to the casting of the main actor. While Ariel, the Little Mermaid in the animation, is a white man with red hair, the main character of the live-action movie is Harley Beale Lee, a black singer. Some criticized Disney for destroying the original work because it was too conscious of the influence of the PC movement (political correctness) in the U.S.

 

On the other hand, director Rob Marshall, who directed the film, said, "There was no specific policy when casting Harley Bailey. We were looking for the best actor for the role," he said, drawing a line on the allegations.

He said, "We looked at all races and people. The goal was to pick someone who was incredibly strong, passionate, beautiful, smart, and clever," he stressed.