The Disney live-action remakes have become a curious trend that the company has nurtured over the past decade. Primarily, these films have provided easy entertainment for parents and their children during family outings. However, at their worst, they represent blatant cash grabs aimed at filling the already overflowing coffers of The Walt Disney Corporation. Regardless of opinions, they show no signs of stopping anytime soon, especially with the recent success of the live-action Lilo & Stitch (which officially has a sequel in the works) and the live-action Moana currently in theaters.
If audiences are to continue enduring these films, it seems only fair that Disney should at least make an effort to select animated properties that truly deserve live-action adaptations, rather than recycling classics like Beauty and the Beast and Mulan. There are numerous hidden gems in their vault that have been overlooked or have not achieved significant success, making them ideal candidates for modern re-imaginings or reinterpretations.
‘Atlantis: The Lost Empire’ (2001)
Image via Walt Disney Animation
An expedition led by a young scholar, voiced by Michael J. Fox, dives beneath the surface of the world to discover the lost city of Atlantis. However, the crew is astonished to find that the Atlantean civilization is mysteriously still alive. The voice cast includes James Garner, Cree Summer, and Leonard Nimoy.
Upon its release, audiences were uncertain about its target demographic. Given this context today, Disney should be capable of creating an exciting live-action re-envisioning with a suitable audience in mind. The remake could blend the adventurous spirit of <em>Indiana Jones</em> with the ambition and narrative depth of James Cameron’s Avatar, resulting in an engaging spectacle featuring stunning art design and an eccentric ensemble that actors would enjoy bringing to life on screen.
‘Treasure Planet’ (2002)
Image via Walt Disney Animation
Troublemaker Jim Hawkins (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) embarks on a journey across the stars seeking planet-sized treasure. Yet, he discovers something more profound through his friendship with space pirate John Silver (Brian Murray). The voice cast features talents like Martin Short, Emma Thompson, and David Hyde Pierce.
This unique interpretation of the classic tale by Robert Louis Stevenson presents a world caught between steampunk aesthetics and advanced technology. This odd creativity might be precisely what live-action remakes need at this time when there has been a scarcity of new Star Wars films — aside from this year’s The Mandalorian and Grogu. This could be just what audiences are craving for a fresh science fantasy adventure. Furthermore, the father-son-like dynamic between Hawkins and Silver would add an emotional layer to the story.
‘Brother Bear’ (2003)
‘The Hunchback Of Notre Dame’ (1996)
…
…
‘The Hunchback Of Notre Dame’ (1996)
…
…
‘The Hunchback Of Notre Dame’ (1996)
