The Little Mermaid

The 2018 movie The Little Mermaid is a family-friendly fantasy drama that presents a fresh spin on a classic fairy tale. The movie is directed by Blake Harris and Chris Bouchard and features an engaging line-up of actors, including William Moseley, Poppy Drayton, and Loreto Peralta.

William Moseley, who many may recognize from the famous Chronicles of Narnia film series, plays a young reporter named Cam Harrison. In search of a hot scoop to advance his career, Harrison stumbles upon a circus in Mississippi run by an enigmatic figure known as Locke, portrayed by Armando Gutierrez. Intrigued by the bizarre collection of oddities under Locke's care, Harrison's initial cynical skepticism gradually evolves into deep-seated curiosity and concern.

Amidst the circus's typical crowd of eccentric performers, one act in particular takes both Cam and the audience by surprise - the show's titular attraction — Elizabeth, remorsefully embodied by actress Poppy Drayton. She is not merely a human performer dressed in a mermaid costume; Elizabeth is an actual mermaid from the ocean, sharing the fairy-tale attributes traditionally associated with merfolk like a shimmering tail and the ability to breathe underwater. However, unlike the flourishing underwater kingdom familiar to most classic mermaid lore, she's subject to life in a grimy tank, captivating crowds with her otherworldly presence, under the manipulative command of Locke.

Then there’s Loreto Peralta, who plays Elle, Cam’s young, sickly and imaginative niece. Elle, with her childlike warmth and boundless belief in magic, enables the narrative to proceed, though she herself is fraught with health issues restricting her mobility, taking a significant emotional toll on both her and her caring uncle. Despite the hurdles of her condition, Elle's spirit remains unbroken, and her conviction in the existence of magic offers a refreshing contrast to her uncle's initial skepticism.

As the story unfolds, the movie delves into elements of adventure, love, healing, and redemption, challenging the characters to brave the unknown, believe in the unbelievable, and fight for freedom from their present predicaments. The reinvention of the mermaid mythology adds an intriguing layer to the narrative and presents a different perspective from typical mermaid stories.

Behind the realm of colorful canvas tents and enchanting acts, the characters grapple with issues far removed from the magical exterior of the circus. For instance, Locke isn't just a quirky showman but is depicted as a cunning, exploitative man with a heinous scheme. Uncovering his true colors inevitably falls onto Cam and Elle's shoulders, as they strive to unveil the suspicious circus’s sinister secrets and liberate Elizabeth from her marine confinement. The story's plot is cleverly woven, holding your curiosity throughout the movie as it walks the fine line between fiction and reality.

The Little Mermaid presents a striking contrast between a magical world full of enchanting creatures and a hardened reality filled with unscrupulous individuals. It is a heart-warming display of unyielding belief—a portrayal of how unwavering faith can transcend reality's toughest barricades.

The film's visual presentation is commendable. The cinematography beautifully captures the nuances of the circus and the magic that bubbles beneath its surface. The set designs brim with vivid colors subtly outlining the atmosphere of a vintage-styled circus. Special effects, particularly those used to bring Elizabeth's mermaidian traits to life, bind the narrative together seamlessly, upholding the fantastical creatures' credibility.

In terms of performances, all actors exhibit commendable acts, coupled with distinctive character developments. Poppy Drayton's performance is breathtakingly charismatic, successfully rendering an alluring yet tormented mermaid trapped in an alien world. Moseley convincingly portrays the transformation of a skeptical reporter into a heroic figure, while Peralta's charming presence as Elle warms the screen with innocence and optimism even amidst her character's struggle with illness.

In conclusion, the 2018 movie The Little Mermaid boasts a compelling narrative blend of fantasy and drama. With its intriguing twist on a traditional tale, vibrant visuals, well-rounded performances, and underlining themes of bravery, belief, and redemption, the movie offers an engaging viewing experience for the whole family.