In the new live-action adaptation of Rob Marshall’s The Little Mermaid, Melissa McCarthy stars as Ursula, the terrifying sea witch. This character, made popular by the original 1989 film, is one of the most iconic antagonists of Disney Studios.
In the animated version, the villains are inspired by the famous drag queen, Divine. This artist, who marked the American underground scene, is especially known in the world of cinema for his collaboration with the subversive filmmaker John Waters. In total, they make six films and three short films together.
The inspiration is very easy to recognize: Ursula’s face is almost a model of the divine, from the hair to the make-up. When Melissa McCarthy was hired for the film, Disney became the target of several criticisms. Many criticize the studio for not casting a real drag queen for the role.
Ursula and the Divine.
However, few people know that Melissa McCarthy started her career in New York as a drag queen when she was in her thirties. On stage, she answered Miss Y’s name. He performed stand-up shows wearing a big golden jacket, a wig and long eyelashes.
“I only hope I can make all the amazing drag queens and goddamn proud“, Report to the actor at the premiere of the film. On social networks, the Disney studio shared a video of the makeup of Ursula’s character:
The Little Mermaid, currently in theaters.
Source: Allocine
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
