MOVIE REVIEW
The Little Mermaid
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Genre: Horror
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 29m
Director(s): Leigh Scott
Writer(s): Leigh Scott
Cast: Mike Markoff, Jeff Denton, Samuel Selman, Sean-Michael Argo, Winston Crooke, Steven Yniguez, Manon Laurent, Lydia Helen
Where To Watch: On Demand and Digital December 17, 2024 from Lionsgate

RAVING REVIEW: In a chilling twist on a classic, Leigh Scott's THE LITTLE MERMAID attempts to redefine Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale as an R-rated horror spectacle that plunges deep into the abyss of terror. Set against a haunting Caribbean island backdrop, the film offers a dramatic departure from the cartoon versions we grew up with, veering into the dark waters of supernatural phenomena and moral quandaries that fit the original tale closer. However, be warned that the film is a slow burn and works more as a psychological horror than a visual one!

Dr. Eric Prince, played by Mike Markoff, takes the helm as a daring archaeologist who uncovers the echoes of a forgotten civilization on his latest expedition. His encounter with the enigmatic Aurora Bey, depicted by Lydia Helen, marks the beginning of a dark romance woven with mystery. Their story unfolds amid a cascade of events and ghostly apparitions, suggesting the island’s history is as dark and deep as the ocean.

The plot expands upon the arrival of Dr. Prince’s mentor, Dr. Ferdinand Ashley, portrayed by Jeff Denton, whose growing suspicions about Aurora challenge the unfolding romance. The narrative spirals into a vortex of suspense as Eric grapples with his feelings for Aurora against the terrifying realization of her true identity, which could potentially unleash cataclysmic consequences on humanity.

Leigh Scott, known for working on titles like TRANSMORPHERS and THE WITCHES OF OZ, directed THE LITTLE MERMAID with an eye for tension. The film marks a significant turn toward the “horror” genre. Its rating underscores its weighty themes, featuring violent scenes and some strong language.

This movie is more than just a retelling; it’s part of a significant trend that has seen childhood innocence twisted into nightmarish visions. It rides the wave started by the unsettling WINNIE THE POOH: BLOOD AND HONEY (and many others), continuing to redefine beloved characters as horror icons. Scott’s film excels by blending a forbidden romance with the grim lore of ancient myths, creating a layered narrative that captivates and horrifies.

THE LITTLE MERMAID is a portal to a world where fairy tales are not meant to comfort but to disturb. This creation draws viewers into Dr. Prince’s struggle and the island's beauty, challenging us to confront our understanding of good and evil. Despite its borderline B-movie feel, THE LITTLE MERMAID possesses an inexplicable charm that elevates it above expectations. The blend of classic fairy tale elements with subtle horror creates a compelling juxtaposition that's both unsettling and captivating. The film’s clever use of atmospheric tension or the seamless integration of folklore into the modern narrative keeps viewers engaged. It crafts an experience that, while haunting, also resonates with a strange sense of nostalgia. It’s a reimagining that ensures the legacy of fairy tales in cinema will never be the same, proving that no childhood story is safe from a dark rebirth.

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[photo courtesy of LIONSGATE]

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