We have to agree that most of us grew up watching Disney movies and always wondered what it would be like to be a Disney prince or princess and have the lives of our favorite characters. And Disney really knew how to play with that nostalgia, as it transformed the world-known animations into live-action films, having one of the most popular actors as cast. From the success of big-budget movies like The Lion King or Beauty and the Beast, Disney has brought plenty of amazing adaptations to life. Also, the adaptation from the classic animations continues to appear, as was the case with The Little Mermaid, which was launched in 2023, and Snow White, which is scheduled to be released on March 22, 2024.
Here are some of the best Disney-live action movies you should watch in case you didn’t already do that. But even if you have watched them, you can continue to do so, as these movies have something magic that always makes us feel better.
Maleficent (2014)
When Disney wanted to retell the classic version of Sleeping Beauty from 1959, it didn’t just make everything live-action but also improved the storyline. This happened because they retold the story from the villain’s point of view, which was one of the best decisions they took, as this made the movie so successful at that time.
Also, the cast helped the movie reach its full potential because the actors were very well chosen. Angelina Jolie played Maleficent and Elle Fanning Aurora, and they managed to impress their fans with how they played their roles. Maleficent creates a world similar to the original movie but adds a darker feature, making it feel unique.
Aladdin (2019)
When it was rumored that Aladdin would have a live-action version, fans were curious to find out who the cast of their beloved movie would be. Mena Massoud took the role of Aladdin, and Naomi Scott, a former Power Rangers star, transformed into Princess Jasmine. But the main characters weren’t the only ones who were appreciated, as in the movie was also Will Smith in the role of the Genie. Aladdin is fun and energetic and successfully brings to life the classic animation.
Aladdin and Princess Jasmine are one of the most loved couples in Disney World, as they prove that two people can be together no matter what, and this is why they are so loved even today. So, the fans of this animation can express their love for their favorite characters by having items with them, like a mini figurine, a Loungefly backpack, or a board game. In this way, they will always have their beloved characters near, which can improve their days and put a smile on their face.
Cinderella (2015)
Numerous studios told and retold Cinderella over the years, which is why it was needed to bring the classical story into action. Starring Lily James, Richard Madden, and Cate Blanchett, the Cinderella version from 2015 brought to life the unique atmosphere of the ballgown with breathtaking costumes, including the beautiful blue dress of Cinderella.
Cinderella is the best-reimagined childhood dream, where the fairytale is populated by actual people, which makes the storyline even more special.
Beauty and the Beast (2017)
Beauty and the Beast was a Disney remake that fans waited with enthusiasm to be released. The 2017 version tries to retell the original version but also has other features introduced, like new characters and many details added to the backstory. The unlikely love romance between the Beast (Dan Stevens) and Belle (Emma Watson) creates powerful images in the movie that cast a spell on the audience, which is impressed by the witty-man Beast and the beautiful provincial girl.
Cruella (2021)
The version of Cruella from 2021 retells the story of 101 Dalmatians, where the villain diva is the center of attention, as the movie shows the transformation of the character from a time when she wasn’t fully evil. From excellent actors like Emma Stone to super adorable puppies and eye-catching costumes, Cruella has everything a movie needs to succeed.
In the film, we first see the life of Estella, who someday will become the famous Cruella de Vil, where the main character needs to take down her evil boss, played by Emma Thompson. The version from 2021 blends perfectly new elements with classic scenes that are a delight for the audience.
Lady and the Tramp (2019)
As everyone loves cute dogs, Lady and the Tramp had a huge advantage and used it as best as possible. The movie has the same basic version of the film from 1955, but with real dogs this time, voiced by Tessa Thompson and Justin Theroux. It is an adorable film that has its charm for sure. The romantic adventure between the two real dogs is something sweet you need to see.
Dumbo (2019)
Tim Burton directs Dumbo, starring Michael Keaton, Colin Farrell and Danny DeVito, and tells the story of a young elephant that can fly, which is why he finds himself in a circus drama. The movie has the simple story of the 1941 cartoon, but more human elements are present, including the presence of a World War I veteran who tries to reconnect with his kids.
Final words
There are also many other Disney-live action movies worth watching, like The Lion King, Pinocchio, Peter Pan & Wendy, Alice in Wonderland, and The Little Mermaid, to name a few. There is something impressive and magical about seeing adaptations of the plotlines that are known everywhere around the globe, as we like to see if the story is the same or if it has elements of the times in which we live today. Across generations, Disney-inspired movies have lit the imagination of both kids and adults and continue to do so with each new release. Everyone has their favorite Disney classic, so which one is yours?