Yahoo Movies Little Mermaid star talks about difference with Ariel and Eric's relationship
The Little Mermaid live-action remake might tell the same story as the animated Disney classic, but fans can expect some changes along the way in Ariel and Eric's love story.
Talking at the press conference, where Digital Spy was in attendance, Jonah Hauer-King – who plays Prince Eric in the new movie – explained how the remake allowed the scope to expand their romance beyond just attraction.
"Disney romances are always filled with that instinctive attraction to one another. We all want to see that, but I think what was fun about this was looking at Ariel and Eric as two people who were kindred spirits," he explained. "[They both feel] a little bit restless behind the four walls of their respective castles and were very much looking outwards."
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Hauer-King added that this approach meant that Ariel and Eric managed to learn from one another, leading to a deeper connection between them.
"I think it's a really good message for what it means to be in love, and what it means to be in a relationship that is ultimately tied to friendship. That's the fundamental thing of it, and that's why it lasts, and that's what makes it special," he enthused.
Talking of changes, it was revealed last month that the remake has updated some of the lyrics to songs, including 'Kiss the Girl'.
"There are some lyric changes in 'Kiss the Girl' because people have gotten very sensitive about the idea that [Prince Eric] would, in any way, force himself on [Ariel]," composer Alan Menken explained.
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Halle Bailey has also spoken recently about how she almost missed the call that confirmed she had been cast as Ariel because she doesn't pick up unknown numbers, which is what director Rob Marshall called her from.
The Little Mermaid is released in cinemas on May 26.
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