Ahead of its release, the live-action remake ofThe Little Mermaidhas not been without some criticism on social media. One subject of controversy has been the new design for Flounder, Ariel’s fishy friend. Voiced byJacob Tremblay, the new Flounder looks more like a real fish compared to the more plump version featured in the animated movie. This has resulted in memes floating around poking fun at the CG-animated fish along with people online expressing their displeasure in Flounder’s new look.
Speaking withVarietyabout the criticism, Tremblay couldn’t disagree more with what those people are saying. He says how he saw the design very early into the production and how he personally thought it was “great.” The young actor also had faith in the filmmakers making these reimagined characters work, and having seen the film, he thinks they’ve succeeded. As Tremblay explains:
“I actually was shown the design when I went in for my audition. [Director] Rob [Marshall] had showed me. I just had complete faith in Rob. I thought it looked great, because that’s kind of like the puppet that they had on set. And, then of course, I watched it last night, and I just think it all works so well. I couldn’t imagine it look different. I just think that, I mean, they were geniuses, and they kind of just made it work so well.”
Separately speaking withTHR, Tremblay further defended the friendly, fishy character. He said:
“I thought it was really cool, because I liked how they were kind of doing it, like make them look like real animals. Then in the rehearsal, too, I had seen the other characters' designs. I thought it was really cool. And then I got to see the movie last night, and I thought they worked really well, and I can’t even imagine a different way, if that makes sense. I think it worked perfectly. I think they were smart about it… I think people should see the movie and then make the judgment.”
Related:Original Little Mermaid Star Praises Halle Bailey’s Ariel, Supports Updated Song Lyrics
Ariel’s Sea Animal Friends Get More “Realistic” Designs
Other sea animal characters have also been given updated looks to appear more like real animals. That includes Scuttle, now voiced by Awkwafina, as well as Sebastian, voided by Daveed Diggs. The film also introduces a new Ariel with Halle Bailey taking on the role as the first live-action incarnation of the titular mermaid. The movie also stars Jonah Hauer-King, Melissa McCarthy, Javier Bardem, and Noma Dumezweni.
The Little Mermaidwill be washing up in theaters on June 30, 2025. As for Jacob Tremblay, the actor can also be seen in the upcoming remake ofThe Toxic Avengeralongside Peter Dinklage. The actor, who also voices Robin on HBO Max’sHarley Quinn, can also be heard as part of the voice cast of the upcoming stop-motion filmWildwoodalongside hisLittle Mermaidco-star Awkwafina.
