Disney is oftentimes synonymous with the medium of animation, but their work has very frequently extended into the Realms of live-action as well. With characters like Mary Poppins, Herbie the Love Bug, and Captain Jack Sparrow, their live-action creations are just as lovable and endearing as their animated ones.
Even with such a phenomenal collection of live-action characters, there are those among them that shine brighter than others. Some of which are even simply sides and supporting roles. With the onslaught of live-action Disney movies floating around nowadays, it's about time these characters got the attention and respect they deserve.
Xianniang/The Witch (Mulan)
There's one thing 2020's adaptation of Mulan should have explored more, it's the character of the Witch. Shockingly, the biggest fantasy element in the retelling of the legend of the Chinese warrior was only briefly explained during conversations.
A shapeshifting spellcaster who gets exiled from her clan and forced into the service of Bori Khan, how has that not been made into a movie already? Xianniang has a story that needs to be told.
The Genie (Aladdin)
Will Smith will never replace Robin Williams, but his interpretation of the genie from Aladdin did leave an impact. Since there are technically 1,000 more Arabian nights, perhaps Smith's character could make a return for other adventures?
Who wouldn't want to see this lovable guy rub elbows with the likes of Ali Baba, Sinbad, and other characters? It would offer Disney a chance to do something original with the inspiration instead of another remake.
Pooh and Friends (Christopher Robin)
Take one thing transparently clear, although Pooh is the more familiar character in Christopher Robin, he in the rest of the Hundred Acre crew was essentially playing second fiddle to Ewan McGregor. Would it be so awful if they got the proper live-action treatment?
Said, there CGI I would need drastic improvements. Despite his lovable nature, not everybody loves the dead, empty, soulless eyes of live-action Pooh Bear. Still, with the right script and choices, it could work.
Captain Barbossa (Pirates of the Caribbean)
Captain Jack might be the face of the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, but Geoffrey Rush was simply born to be a pirate captain. Whether it's a prequel, a spin-off, an alternate universe, or whatever, there has to be a way to get him back.
Even if it's just the character of Barbossa, fans of the series would no doubt flock to the theaters for more swashbuckling action. And don't forget to bring the monkey.
Rocket and Groot (Guardians of the Galaxy)
They are the MCU's dynamic duo, and yet they have still not had their own solo adventure. But why not? The interactions on the relationship between Rocket and Groot would make for the biggest Marvel comedy sense Ant-Man.
Marvel is literally sitting on a comedic goldmine of material, there is no reason the two can't go off on their own, especially after the upcoming Thor sequel. But honestly, anything involving these two would be a riot.
The Mad Hatter (Alice in Wonderland)
If ever there was a character that rivaled Captain Jack for Johnny Depp, it's the Mad Hatter. Alice in Wonderland might have suffered from a horrible script, but that doesn't mean Tim Burton can't redeem himself with another opportunity.
Fans would enjoy seeing this character come to life again.
Captain Phasma (Star Wars)
There were so many Star Wars characters that were killed off way too early, and Captain Phasma is the queen. The new trilogy might be over, but there is ample room for more Star Wars spinoffs, and this nightmare in silver has a story to tell.
The script would undoubtedly have to come from the novel by Delilah S. Dawson, the movie that brings to life Phasma's origins would be a violent and gripping thriller the likes of which the galaxy has never known.
C-3PO and R2-D2
Another set of Star Wars side characters that need more attention are those two lovable droids fans have known since the 70s, C-3PO and R2-D2. Wouldn't it be grand to see them explore the Galaxy on their own? After all, what kind of nonsense did they get up to while in the company of Princess Leia?
Wouldn't it be totally in character to see R2 scurrying about on some mission with 3PO reluctantly at his heels? There are certainly more than a few scraps the two droids could be exposed to, and fans would love to see that comedy of errors.
Grogu (The Mandalorian)
Din Djarin and Grogu's story might be over for now, but a sequel series would absolutely have to star the little green bundle of joy being not so little anymore. A series involving a teenager or even adult Grogu would be an ideal follow-up to The Mandalorian.
Grogu would be seen going through his Jedi training but maybe even remembering a few things from his time with the Bounty Hunter as well. A Jedi who uses Mandalorian techniques? That would definitely recommend some new viewers.
Bert (Mary Poppins)
While Mary Poppins may or may not appear, a solo movie starring everyone's favorite singing chimney sweep would be an absolute Delight. Dick Van Dyke is a tough act to follow but with the right casting, script, and musical numbers, this can be done.
While it's better than the nanny's mysterious origins remain mysterious, Bert could have a very interesting life story. Why does he do so many odd jobs? How did he get to know Mary Poppins? All things that could be answered in this film.