10 Best Live-Action Disney Movies Since 2020, Ranked

Disney’s recent live-action films represent a promising evolution of the company’s storytelling tradition by blending its rich legacy in fantasy animation with a modern, 3D approach. With the groundbreaking release of the 1996 remake of 101 Dalmatians, Disney began its venture into live-action adaptations of its beloved animated classics. Disney aimed to capture the magic of the originals while keeping up with advances in cinematic technology, and these films often succeed in retaining the core narrative and characters of the beloved animated originals while re-imagining them with fresh perspectives and visuals.

In the past few years, writers and producers at Disney have directed their focus onto its live-action adaptations; notable successes include Beauty and the Beast (2017), Aladdin (2019), and The Lion King (2019). Although these films faced some criticism upon release for lacking the innovative charm and creative depth of their animated predecessors, they have been largely praised for their visual splendor and musical performances. These live-action remakes serve as both a nostalgic and heartwarming tribute to the original films and a platform for introducing these timeless stories to modern audiences. There have also been a number of original Disney live-action standalone films, showcasing Disney’s adaptability and ingenuity as a production company. By blending traditional storytelling with contemporary filmmaking techniques, Disney continues to explore new ways of enchanting viewers while celebrating its storied past.

10 Mulan Is a Remake of the Beloved Animated Classic

The 2020 release of Mulan, a live-action remake of the classic princess tale starring Yifei Liu, generated considerable buzz upon its release. Casual fans and critics alike were divided in their reception of the film, highlighting its visual grandeur while criticizing its lack of the emotional resonance that made the original tale so delightful. Although it follows the same plot as the animated classic, the live-action remake features characters that are largely devoid of the traits and quirks that made them so special and emotionally engaging.

Mulan faced a challenging premiere, which was pushed back over six months due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Because of this substantial delay and the subsequent limited theatrical release period, its box office totals showed a measly return of around $70 million in sales against an impressive $200 million budget. Due to the widely shared sense of eager anticipation among audiences who were sorely disappointed, Mulan‘s poor reception marked it as an entertaining but unappreciated entry in Disney’s recent live-action films. Its critical response, however, does not take away from the visual splendor and sense of nostalgia that makes it a successful remake that is as enchanting as its animated predecessor.

9 Disney Adapted a Young Adult Book Series Into Film

The Artemis Fowl franchise follows the action-packed and fantastical adventures of child prodigy and criminal mastermind Artemis Fowl II as well as other members of the Fowl family. Based on the series of young-adult fantasy novels of the same name, the 2020 film adaptation of Artemis Fowl was, unfortunately, an outstanding flop. The novels are widely popular for their creatively fun marriage of action and fantasy, and they offer a rich landscape to explore through film; Disney had the chance to capitalize off of this franchise, but the production of Artemis Fowl was largely unsuccessful.

Critics cite a poorly written script, underwhelming performances, and a soulless representation of the book series as the biggest sources of the film’s downfall. Similar to the 2010 adaptation of Percy Jackson, Artemis Fowl was a hopeful reproduction of a fantastic young adult series that resulted in a disappointing film translation. Despite these criticisms, however, Artemis Fowl is an entertaining and kid-friendly venture into the world of action-adventure with such stars as Colin Farrell, Judi Densch, and Josh Gad in its cast.

8 Peter Pan and Wendy Reimagines the Classic Adventure

Peter Pan and Wendy (2023) is a recent live-action adaptation of the cherished Disney animated feature Peter Pan (1953). This classic is one of Disney’s liveliest and most enchanting original films, and the newest entry into the franchise was met with eager anticipation. Upon its release, it was praised as an earnest and faithful retelling of the source material; those who enjoyed the film pointed out its impressive technical elements and poignant storyline as aspects that sustained the magic of the original that made it so beloved.

Like many other films in the camp of live-action remakes of animated classics, Peter Pan and Wendy is regarded as a promising but ultimately disappointing addition to the franchise. Still, the film presents an emotionally stirring and visually rich experience that should not be disregarded among fans of the Peter Pan story. Moreover, it is a pleasure to see the modern reimagining of classic beloved characters like Peter Pan, Wendy Darling, Captain Hook, Smee, and Tinker Bell, highlighted by compelling performances from famous figures, including Jude Law as Hook and Jim Gaffigan as Smee.

7 Bryan Cranston Stars in the Heartwarming Tale of The One and Only Ivan

The 2020 release of The One and Only Ivan represents a unique but well-received departure from Disney’s penchant for remakes and occasional YA adaptations. Offering a glimpse into the story of a circus gorilla and the ringmaster who is charged with caring for him and a number of other exotic animals, the film is inspired by the true and bittersweet story of Ivan the gorilla and based additionally upon the 2012 children’s novel The One and Only Ivan. Ivan’s story, wherein he was captured as a juvenile in his home in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and brought to the United States to live in captivity and serve as a circus and mall attraction, is a bittersweet and poignant tale of the relationship between humans and wild animals.

The Disney film adaptation features a star-studded cast, with the likes of Angelina Jolie, Danny DeVito, and Helen Mirren employing their voice acting talents as some of Ivan’s fellow animal friends and Bryan Cranston as the owner and ringmaster, Mack. The film is praised for its successful portrayal of an inherently emotional story, boasting characters that are well-developed and loveable. Its gentle pacing and feel-good narrative make it a quintessential Disney feature that is perfect entertainment for families.

6 The Sequel Movie, Disenchanted, Was a Disney Channel Hit

Disenchanted, the 2022 sequel to the 2007 romantic comedy “Enchanted”, starring Amy Adams, continues following the whimsical adventures of Giselle 15 years after the original film. Disenchanted combines live-action with enchantingly rich animated sequences, maintaining the eccentric charm of its predecessor while continuing to explore themes of personal growth and navigating the complexities of adapting fairy-tale ideals to real-life challenges. With its endearing mix of humor, romance, fantasy, and overall family fun, Disenchanted offers a delightful continuation of Giselle’s story.

Although critics point out that the sequel lacks some of the magic and spark of the first film, it is still a worthy follow-up that makes for classic Disney entertainment. Sequels are notoriously difficult projects to tackle in film, presenting the unique challenge of maintaining the favorite qualities of an original beloved film while crafting a story that entices audiences to return to the franchise. Overall, Disenchanted is a solid example of a sequel that was given the appropriate attention in production and resulted in a film that, while not quite as magical and endearing as the first, is certainly a fun and entertaining return to the story of Enchanted.

5 Harrison Ford Returns to His Action Roots in Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny

The 2023 hit film Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny is the fifth installment in the iconic action-adventure series that stars Harrison Ford as the eponymous daredevil archaeologist. Featuring Phoebe Waller-Bridge as Jones’ goddaughter, Antonio Banderas as Jones’ old friend Renaldo, Mads Mikkelsen as former Nazi Jürgen Voller, and John Rhys-Davies as returning character Sallah, the film also boasted an impressive supporting cast. Audiences were delighted at the prospect of once again embarking on another adventure with Indy 15 years after the franchise’s last film, Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (2008), was released.

Comparing its enormous budget of $300 million to its box office returns of $387 million gives credit to the franchise’s success and wide fan base. While this doesn’t appear to be a blockbuster margin, Dial of Destiny generated a considerable profit when the film’s huge expenses and filming troubles were taken into account. It was one of many films that were hindered by the COVID-19 pandemic, which posed unique challenges for the cast and crew during its long production. There was also an extensive amount of practical effects, CGI and VFX, and travel expenses for filming on location — not to mention each of the cast members’ salaries — that made this film so astonishingly expensive to make. All things considered, its release was a veritable success and a fantastic close to the adventures of everyone’s favorite archaeologist.

4 Cruella Is a Fresh Revival of the 101 Dalmations Franchise

Cruella (2021) is a fantastically successful venture into the world of live-action prequel films by Disney. Director Craig Gillespie, with such famous titles under his belt as Lars and the Real Girl (2007), Fright Night (2011), and I, Tonya (2019), masterfully steers this energetic story that focuses on the background of Cruella de Vil, the glamorous antagonist of Disney’s 1961 classic film 101 Dalmations. Upon its release, Cruella was an absolute hit with audiences, featuring a dazzling visual atmosphere and soundscape, gorgeous costuming, and an interesting and engaging narrative.

Set in the vibrant era of 1970s London amid the lively punk rock movement, Cruella is a pure delight to witness on the big screen. It represents a marked switch in Disney’s live-action canon from old animation remakes and adaptations to a fresh and bold film that, while related to and relevant within a well-known and loved franchise, is a fantastic film in its own right that could stand alone from its predecessor and still be successful.

3 Halle Bailey Stuns as Ariel in The Little Mermaid

The Little Mermaid (2023) is a live-action remake of one of Disney’s most classic princess stories of the same name, released in 1989. The magical story of mermaid Ariel and her interest in the human world is a huge part of many modern Disney fans’ childhoods, so the new adaptation had a lot to live up to. With absolutely gorgeous underwater visuals and a well-cast suite of actors, the newest Little Mermaid is a charming and successful remake of one of Disney’s best films.

Like all of Disney’s other live-action remakes, the conversation around the film was filled with its fair share of controversies and a nebulous cloud of distaste for the idea of live-action reproductions of films that have been beloved classics for decades. Despite this, The Little Mermaid garnered a considerable and positive response worldwide, with box office totals surpassing the film’s budget by nearly $400 million. It is a beautiful return to the princess story, adding a modern atmosphere to the tale while still staying true to the characters and narratives that made the original so delightful.

2 Jungle Cruise Is an Action-Adventure Film Based on the Classic Disney Ride

Jungle Cruise (2021) is an enchanting and boisterously fun action-adventure film that stars successful actors like Dwayne Johnson, Emily Blunt, and Jesse Plemons. It’s an exciting, modern jaunt into the world of Disney’s fantasy action stories, joining the ranks of films like those in the Indiana Jones, Pirates of the Caribbean, and National Treasure franchises. Johnson and Blunt bring an extraordinary degree of chemistry and magic that make the film a thoroughly entertaining adventure that stays true to Disney’s devotion to family-friendly and emotionally engaging narratives.

Its basis on the Jungle Cruise ride, which has been a staple at Disney parks since the 1955 opening of Disneyland, positioned the film in a unique but promising spot for audience interest that spans generations. The name alone sparks interest surrounding Jungle Cruise in anyone who has visited the theme parks over the decades, and it does a great job of capturing the spirit and storyline of the ride; the film even gives homage to the habits and dialogue of skippers on the Jungle Cruise ride, adding fun little Easter eggs that longtime fans of the attraction will recognize and love. Although it faced its fair share of negative reviews and struggles with production and release, Jungle Cruise is a successful and endearing film that is a true and classic Disney tale.

1 Disney’s Haunted Mansion Attraction Gets a Second Live-Action Adaptation

2023 saw the release of one of Disney’s most endearingly poignant but underrated films of the past few years. Haunted Mansion is the second film adaptation of the long-loved Disney theme park attraction of the same name, joining Jungle Cruise at the delightful intersection of live-action film and iconic park attractions. 20 years after the original Haunted Mansion film, the newest release offers a thrilling and unabashed glimpse into navigating grief and loss through the lens of a family-friendly supernatural comedy.

Starring LaKeith Stanfield, Owen Wilson, and Danny DeVito, Haunted Mansion is a fresh and bold entry into Disney’s live-action canon, featuring incredible special effects and a fittingly haunting atmosphere that is closely reminiscent of the park attraction. Although the film had a surprisingly low turnout at the box office and startlingly harsh critical reviews, it has been a success in the hearts of audiences and Disney fans around the globe. Boasting an audience score of 84% against a critical score of 37% on Rotten Tomatoes, it is clear that Haunted Mansion is a beloved and heartwarming film that is — although a horror-inspired departure from the regular and safe Disney formula — one of the best and most impactful live-action films in recent history.