One of the biggest current cinematic movements is live-action remakes. The idea behind this is to take classic animated films, most of which are particularly Disney films, and revitalize them into realistic and modern versions. The most successful version of this thus far has been the remake of the Disney classic, Beauty and the Beast. This film grossed more than an astonishing $1 billion worldwide. Needless to say, the film was a hit.
It was so successful for a handful of reasons, first being the new and refreshing portrayal of the renowned and adored characters. Le Fou, Gaston's originally dumb and blindly loyal companion, established himself as more than so, giving the character much more dimension. Gaston, the villain of the film, is also given more dimension, becoming somewhat of a charming and laughable bad guy who you can't help but secretly adore. Big names also helped boost the film's success. Emma Watson was cast as the lead, Belle, in the film and was accompanied by other big names in Hollywood such as Josh Gad, or our beloved Olaf, Luke Evans, Emma Thompson, and Dan Stevens.
Watching this film, I couldn't help but try to imagine other animated classics reinvented in the same way. Though I know some of these are rumored to be in the works and others have had somewhat of a remake made about them, I have created a list of films that absolutely need a live-action version:
Peter Pan
Yes, this film has had quite a few remakes made since its animated days. However, personally speaking, those remakes just didn't do it for me. As it is one of my favorite Disney films, I am in dire need of a Disney live-action remake that is slightly more accurate to the original.
Aladdin
This is rumored to already be in the making and I have my fingers crossed that it is true. I mean, how cool would it be to see the genie in live-action?
The Little Mermaid
So, I had heard this was already remade and set to be released later this year, but was very disappointed when I watched the trailer and realized it was nothing like the original animated version. I'm sorry, but if I'm going to watch a live-action version of The Little Mermaid, Sebastian and Flounder better be in it.
Mulan
This one is sure to be perfect for the cinemas, with all of the action and classic songs within it. Plus, Mulan has always been an important and classic feminist icon, an idea that modern day movie goers would love to see played out on the big screen.
The Lion King
Of course, this would require a whole lot of CGI and time and money... but I'm sure it's success would pay off.
Hercules
Simply put, this one would be badass.
Tarzan
Though this movie was just recently made into a live-action version, I was honestly very disappointed with it. I thought the new version would still include the classic characters such as Terk, Tantor, Kerchak, and Kala, but it did not. The apes in the film couldn't even talk. The makers of the film took it in a different direction, telling the story of Tarzan slightly backwards. Though I totally understood the message and I do not regret seeing it, a scene-to-scene accurate version of Tarzan would be great.
Pocahontas
Honestly, I'm quite surprised this one hasn't been done yet. There's plenty of story to be retold and I'd love to see it.
The Fox and the Hound
I'd more than likely cry seeing this film in live-action, but nevertheless, someone's got to get on it.
Brother Bear
Quite possibility one of my favorite (and arguably most underrated animated films), a live-action version of Brother Bear would be phenomenal. Though, as with The Lion King, this one would need a lot of CGI as well.
Frozen
I'm sure someone will do this eventually. The movie is still relatively new and the animated version continues to have massive success. Though I'm not sure if I'd want to see how Olaf looks in live-action, I would hope they cast Josh Gad once again to voice the iconic character.
The Incredibles
A live-action movie about a superhero family? Please.
Moana
Like Frozen, this film is still incredibly new and the hype around it continues to grow. So, I think it's safe to believe that someday someone will make this film into a live-action one.
Tangled
I just really need a live version of Flynn Rider.
How to Train Your Dragon
The making of this would probably be very similar to Pete's Dragon, but I'm here for it.
Bonus: Lilo & Stitch
Okay, I don't know how they would do this (considering half the characters are aliens and would probably look a bit frightening in live-action), but it's an interesting thought.
