PremiumLive-action adaptations of animated Disney classics to bring your wildest imaginations to life
Shilpa S
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Disney has given us movies and characters which have become household names during our childhood. Not only have they offered some heartwarming animated films woven out of classic fairy tales such as Cinderella and Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, but also some timeless animated classics, inspired by mythologies and Shakespeare plays. The studio has also started experimenting, quite successfully, at making live-action versions of their classic animated characters. They were a whopping success, with viewers enthralled at seeing their childhood favourites again, fleshed out into animated characters they could relate to. Disney, realizing the potential, did not back out from giving the fans what they wanted.
Here is a look back at some popular Disney classics that have had new life breathed into them through their live-action adaptations.
1
Cinderella
Fairy tale lovers were thrilled when Disney revived the classic with a live-action adaptation. The masterpiece tells the story of a sweet young girl, bullied and abused by her evil stepmother and her stepsisters. Her fate changes when her wish to attend a ball at the king’s palace leads her to an unlikely magical guardian. With stunningly vibrant visuals, gorgeous costumes and sets as well as impeccable performances by the cast, Cinderella is rife with moments that’ll make you regret looking away even for a second.
2
The Lion King
A remake of one of Disney’s best-known animated works, 2019’s The Lion King tells the story of a young lion who is led on a path of self-discovery after the murder of his father, the king, at the hands of the king’s evil brother. The film was highly praised for its realistic digital effects, being nominated for an Academy Award for the same, and its music. In addition to top-tier CGI which transports you to the African Savannah, the film also features a stellar voice cast, with big names such as Donald Glover, Seth Rogen, Billy Eichner, John Oliver, Eric André, Keegan-Michael Key, Beyoncé Knowles-Carter and James Earl Jones.
3
Mulan
Based on a legendary Chinese folklore, Mulan tells the tale of a brave young woman who disguises herself as a man to take her crippled warrior father’s place in the army, when the kingdom is threatened by war. The film is a live-action rendition of Disney’s 1998 animated classic of the same name. In addition to boasting stunning visuals, sets and costumes, the 2020 film is rife with stunning action sequences from the sword-wielding titular character, whose ferocity and valour make the ambitious remake a vibrant success.
4
Aladdin
There might be very few Disney fans unfamiliar with the story of Aladdin, the studios take of the popular Arabian folktale sharing the same name. Well, 2019 saw the movie hitting screens in live-action format, without compromising on anything that made the original a fan-favourite including friendly genies, flying magic carpets and of course, some of the best musical performances ever witnessed. The story of Aladdin follows the titular character, a poor street urchin, who after falling in love with a princess, is helped in his romantic endeavours by a genie. The film is a spectacle that one must witness themselves to truly appreciate the efforts of the makers behind it.
5
Beauty and the Beast
A tale as old as time, Beauty And The Beast tells the story of an arrogant prince cursed to take on the form of a hideous monster. He falls in love with a sweet and innocent woman, whose love might hold the key to save him from his curse. A live-action rendition of the classic Disney tale that teaches viewers that there is more to people than what they look like, the film is a visual treat with splendid sets and costumes. The musical performances by the household furniture and cutleries are sure to make you hum a tune with them.
6
Dumbo
Disney’s 1941 heartwarming tale about the sweet bullied elephant Dumbo is given new wings, or in this case, ears to soar in this 2019 live-action adaptation. The remake focuses on the titular character, a young elephant with enormous ears that offers him the ability to fly. This somber tale of the magical mammal, helmed by none other than Tim Burton himself, is made all the more compelling with its wondrous visuals and enigmatic flair, as well as strong performances by its stellar cast.
