There has always been a bit of a mixed response when it comes to Disney's slate of live-action remakes. Many longtime fans aren't happy with the concept of their beloved animated classics being remade, especially since most of the live-action versions haven't been as well-received as the originals. On the other hand, they're mostly big hits at the box office.
Even if they can't live up to the original animated movies, they're still often quality films on their own. In fact, most of them received positive feedback from fans and critics alike, as well as from the official reviews on Screen Rant.
The Lion King (3 Stars)
1994's The Lion King is basically hallowed ground when it comes to animated movies. Many still hold it up as the greatest ever, so a live-action adaptation in 2019 was a risky move but it did prove to be a hit that surpassed $1 billion at the global box office.
It helps that the film was helmed by Jon Favreau and had the voice talents of Beyoncé, Donald Glover, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Billy Eichner, and more. The Screen Rant review noted that the choice to go with big-budget hyper-realistic CGI creations for the animals was an issue due to their lack of ability to convey emotion. It was seen as being good because it was based on a classic but wasted several aspects.
Mulan (3 Stars)
Most of these live-action remakes have been of films from the '50s or '60s but a few came from the '90s. The most recent of those was Mulan, with the original arriving in 1998 and the new take coming out in 2020. This version shifted a bit of the focus and highlighted the action.
In that respect, it worked since the Screen Rant review said the action and visuals were the best parts. It also was said to do a really good job of showcasing the gorgeous landscape of the China setting. However, this Mulan missed a bit of the fun parts thanks to a lack of Mushu and it not including many of the songs from the original.
Lady And The Tramp (3 Stars)
One live-action remake never got the opportunity to find out how it would do at the box office. That would be Lady and the Tramp, which launched alongside Disney+ as one of the exclusives for the streaming service. The film featured the voices of Tessa Thompson and Justin Theroux to lead the way.
Most audiences felt this was good and not much more. The same goes for the Screen Rant review, which stated that the film is cute and tells a heartwarming story. It was appreciated that real dogs were used for a lot of it, so it didn't come off looking like it was non-stop CGI. Both the voice acting and the subtle ways in which this was brought into the modern world were praised.
Cinderella (3 Stars)
There might not be a more iconic fairy tale than that of Cinderella. Disney brought it to the animated big screen back in 1950 and it remains one of the studio's best films. The story has been told in many different forms over history but 2015 brought a new version for Disney.
This one starred Lily James as the titular character and Richard Madden as Prince Charming. Screen Rant's review said that the studio mostly played it safe with this but that worked because longtime fans appreciate the story for what it is. While James and Madden were well-received, it was Cate Blanchett who stole the show as Lady Tremaine.
Alice In Wonderland (3.5 Stars)
One of the most difficult movies to bring to life from animation had to be Alice in Wonderland. The 1951 cartoon is filled with trippy visuals, vibrant colors, and some of the weirdest things ever put into a movie designed for children. However, Disney pulled it off in 2010 and used the benefit of 3D to try to get it right.
The official Screen Rant review of this film was probably boosted by the writer's admitted appreciation for the combination of Tim Burton, who directed, and Johnny Depp, who played The Mad Hatter. While the 3D wasn't considered great, the performances and visuals were a treat.
Beauty And The Beast (3.5 Stars)
1991's Beauty and the Beast is another Disney movie held in high esteem and it made history when it became the first animated film to be nominated for Best Picture. Needless to say, turning it into a live-action story was a tall task as it had a high bar to live up to.
Thankfully, it mostly worked out in 2017. The Screen Rant review for it said that it did a good job of recapturing the magic, spirit, and atmosphere of its predecessor. Most of the original story was kept intact but welcome additions were made to backstories. The performances of Emma Watson, Luke Evans, and Josh Gad were all praised.
Aladdin (3.5 Stars)
By the time 2019 rolled around, some audience members were over the concept of reimagining classic tales. That didn't stop Aladdin from soaring to surpass $1 billion at the box office and becoming a blockbuster hit.
Based on another classic, Aladdin had a lot to live up to, especially when it came to Will Smith taking over for Robin Williams as the Genie. Thankfully, the Screen Rant review noted that Smith made the role his own. While most aspects were praised in the review, the development of the villain was considered a weak point.
Christopher Robin (4 Stars)
2018's Christopher Robin is one of the more interesting remakes since it's technically not of just one movie. Instead, it kind of spans several Winnie the Pooh films from decades ago. It took a unique approach by following an adult Robin who has lost his imagination only to be reunited with his old buddies.
The review at Screen Rant seemed to appreciate most things about this film. That included the heartwarming story, the lovely score, and the acting by the likes of Ewan McGregor and Hayley Atwell. Christoper Robin kept the innocence of Pooh while telling a fun spin on the concept.
Cruella (4 Stars)
The most recent entry into the world of live-action Disney remakes is Cruella, released in 2021. Like Maleficent, this retold a classic through the perspective of a villain. A prequel of sorts to 1961's 101 Dalmatians, it focused on the origin story of Cruella de Vil.
Right off the bat, the Screen Rant review pointed out that Emma Stone was the "beating heart of this masterfully nuanced origin." The film was also praised for how bold it was in telling this different kind of story and the way it embraced the fashion aspect with some brilliant costume design work.
The Jungle Book (4.5 Stars)
In the eyes of the reviewers at Screen Rant, 2016's The Jungle Book is the cream of the crop when it comes to live-action Disney remakes. The 1967 original was a good choice to tackle as it's beloved but isn't viewed on quite the same level as the likes of The Lion of King or Aladdin.
That allowed it to breathe on its own. Jon Favreau was great as director and the special effects team was praised for their groundbreaking work. The review liked the gripping drama, tense action, and world-building, which all created something magical.