Disney’s live-action remakes range from inspired reinterpretations (Cruella) to almost shot-for-shot adaptations of beloved classics (The Lion King). Directed by Rob Marshall (Chicago, Mary Poppins Returns), The Little Mermaid sits squarely in the middle. At times it lovingly recreates moments from the ’89 animation; at others there are new twists in the mermaid tale. The result is a lively, vibrant, joyous reimagining that’s strong enough to surpass the original.