Disney’s Live-Action Adapted Films: Ranking From Worst To Best

22. The Jungle Book (1994)

Disney’s first attempt at a live-action remake of an animated classic, The Jungle Book, directed by Stephen Sommers, falls short of expectations. Despite some noteworthy performances, such as those by Cary Elwes and Lena Headey, the film fails to capture the spirit and charm of Rudyard Kipling’s original stories. Instead, it focuses on the experiences of British colonizers and strips the animals of their memorable characterizations, resulting in a lackluster and outdated adventure film.

21. Alice Through the Looking Glass (2016)

Director James Bobin’s Alice Through the Looking Glass may dazzle audiences with its colorful visuals and the comical performance of Sacha Baron Cohen as a talking clock. However, beyond these surface-level pleasures, the film is a frustrating mess that fails to satisfy both fans of the original source material and those looking for a feminist adventure epic. With its mishandling of the “female hysteria” plotline and a disjointed storyline that feels like a jumbled mess of nonsensical scenes, Alice Through the Looking Glass fails to live up to the promise of its predecessor, Alice in Wonderland. The film is a prime example of a bloated budget being mistaken for psychedelic maximalism, resulting in a headache-inducing mess that feels more annoying than trippy. In the end, despite its colorful veneer and notable performances, Alice Through the Looking Glass ultimately falls short of delivering anything that’s worth its time.

20. Pinocchio (2022)

Despite the admirable efforts of Tom Hanks as Geppetto, Robert Zemeckis’ live-action version of Pinocchio falls flat in nearly every aspect. Pinocchio himself is dull and wooden (pun intended), and the addition of a rescue mission involving a kitten and a goldfish seems unnecessary and distracting. However, the real horror of this film lies in its CGI-heavy depiction of Pleasure Island, where human children are turned into donkeys in a sequence that is both grotesque and nightmare-inducing. The film’s morality also feels off, treating child actors with little empathy and seemingly prioritizing the interests of unscrupulous characters like Honest John. Ultimately, Pinocchio misses the mark on both entertainment and ethical levels, failing to capture the magic of the beloved original story.

19. 102 Dalmatians (2000)

Despite its lackluster plot, Glenn Close delivers a captivating performance as the villainous Cruella De Vil in the forgettable sequel, 102 Dalmatians. While the film’s use of real animals is commendable, it fails to add any real depth or innovation to the story, ultimately feeling like a tired retread of its predecessors. The only saving grace is the charming Waddlesworth, a talking macaw that steals every scene he’s in. Overall, 102 Dalmatians is a forgettable film that fails to leave any lasting impression.

18. Maleficent: Mistress of Evil (2019)

Angelina Jolie returns as the imposing Maleficent in Maleficent: Mistress of Evil, a sequel to Disney’s live-action Sleeping Beauty reimagining. Director Joachim Rønning brings a lavish visual spectacle to the screen, but it’s Jolie’s commanding presence that steals the show. Her portrayal of the dark fairy is both chilling and captivating, with a commanding physicality that makes her stand out even in the film’s most crowded scenes. Unfortunately, the rest of the movie fails to live up to Jolie’s performance. The convoluted plot and over-the-top special effects often overshadow the characters and their motivations, leaving little room for the audience to connect with the story. The battle scenes are particularly underwhelming, lacking the tension and emotional weight necessary to make them truly impactful. At its best, Maleficent: Mistress of Evil is a showcase for Jolie’s formidable talents. But when she’s not on screen, the film struggles to maintain its momentum, relying on flashy visuals and convoluted mythology to distract from its shortcomings. Despite its impressive cast and production values, the movie ultimately fails to recapture the magic of the original animated classic.

17. Dumbo (2019)

Director Tim Burton brings his signature whimsy to the live-action remake of Disney’s Dumbo, creating a visually stunning world filled with circus tents, dazzling costumes, and larger-than-life characters. CGI Dumbo steals the show, tugging at heartstrings with his innocent eyes and endearing antics. Michael Keaton’s portrayal of the ruthless amusement park owner is deliciously villainous, while Danny Devito’s lovable ringmaster adds a touch of heart to the film. However, beneath the whimsy lies a deeper, darker story. Burton confronts the cruelty of the circus industry head-on, tackling issues of animal rights and the importance of family. The emotional impact is palpable, especially as we witness Dumbo’s separation from his mother. While the movie may have its muddled moments, the poignant themes and stunning visuals make it a must-watch for both fans of the original and newcomers alike.

16. Alice in Wonderland (2010)

In his take on Alice in Wonderland, Tim Burton infuses his trademark whimsy with a darker edge, creating a topsy-turvy world of Underland that is both visually stunning and haunting. The film boasts a standout cast, with Helena Bonham Carter’s deliciously wicked portrayal of the Queen of Hearts and Johnny Depp’s zany performance as the Mad Hatter earning particular praise. Despite its massive box office success, the movie failed to impress critics, who found the story lacking in substance and the mix of Burton’s art style with CGI jarring. Mia Wasikowska’s portrayal of Alice was also criticized for lacking depth. Nevertheless, Burton’s inventive reimagining of the classic tale offers a feast for the eyes and a glimpse into his unique creative vision.

15. Mary Poppins Returns (2018)

Emily Blunt shines as the charming and clever Mary Poppins in the 2018 sequel to the beloved classic. Her performance is a testament to her versatility and talent as an actress, matching the wit and whimsy of Julie Andrews’ original portrayal. While the original “Mary Poppins” film may feel slow by modern standards, it remains a timeless classic that explores important themes with originality and depth. In contrast, the 2018 sequel, directed by Rob Marshall, feels lackluster and unremarkable. Despite its loyalty to the source material, the film fails to capture the magic of the original, and the new songs fall flat. Watching the same characters in a different time period with lesser performances feels like a chore rather than a joy.

14. The Lion King (2019)

Jon Favreau pays homage to the beloved classic with his photorealistic remake of The Lion King, featuring an all-star voice cast including Donald Glover, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Beyoncé. Beyoncé’s performances of the original song “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” and the new track “Spirit” add a fresh touch to the nostalgic soundtrack. However, despite the stunning visuals and talented cast, the film fails to offer anything new or creative, serving as a mere imitation of the 1994 animated classic. With both versions available exclusively on Disney+, it’s hard to justify choosing this one over the original.

13. Aladdin (2019)

Guy Ritchie’s decision to turn Will Smith into an oversized, blue-skinned Genie may have seemed strange to some Disney fans, but Smith’s outrageously theatrical performance was a sight to behold in the live-action remake of Aladdin. Smith’s Genie provided a larger-than-life presence that anchored the well-loved romance of a princess and a so-called “street rat.” Despite strong performances from the leads Mena Massoud and Naomi Scott, the Aladdin remake struggled to capture the same compelling magic as the original. The choreography lacked the same flair and the CGI felt awkward and out of place. What’s worse, however, is the controversy surrounding the film’s casting. The addition of a new white character, Prince Anders, played by Billy Magnussen, felt misguided and the use of brown makeup on white extras only added to the film’s tone-deafness. Overall, while the Aladdin remake had its moments, it fell short of recapturing the enchantment of the original.

12. 101 Dalmatians (1996)

Glenn Close delivers a career-best performance as the villainous Cruella De Vil in the 1996 live-action adaptation of 101 Dalmatians. Close’s portrayal is equal parts menacing and stylish, a true standout in a film that could have easily faltered under the weight of its animated source material. Jeff Daniels and Joely Richardson offer solid support as the human leads. However, the film’s attempt to shoehorn slapstick humor into a story about stolen puppies feels misguided and often falls flat. The stakes are high, but the tone is uneven, ultimately robbing the film of the emotional resonance it desperately needs. Despite its flaws, Close’s Cruella remains a mesmerizing on-screen presence and a testament to the actress’s undeniable talent.

11. The Sorcerer’s Apprentice (2010)

With the exception of some cute mops that dance around, Jon Turteltaub’s The Sorcerer’s Apprentice bears little resemblance to the beloved Mickey Mouse segment from “Fantasia.” Jay Baruchel stars as a science whiz kid who discovers his true destiny as a sorcerer under the tutelage of Nicolas Cage, all while trying to prevent evil sorcerers from taking over the world. While the film is entertaining enough, it ultimately fails to leave a lasting impression. It’s the epitome of a middle-of-the-road fantasy adventure that’s enjoyable in the moment, but forgettable in the long run.

10. Maleficent (2014)

Who better to receive a villainous origin story than the iconic Maleficent? The mega-talented Angelina Jolie was the perfect choice to bring her to life, while Elle Fanning’s portrayal of Princess Aurora was equally enchanting. Director Robert Stromberg weaves a morally complex tale about motherhood that masterfully expands upon the world of “Sleeping Beauty” with a film that’s both a revisionist prequel and a character study. However, while Maleficent is a beautiful and well-crafted film, it falls victim to feeling a bit predictable. It’s like reading a beloved picture book to a child for the umpteenth time: it’s still enjoyable, but you know exactly what’s going to happen. Despite this flaw, the film is still worth watching for its stunning visuals and captivating performances.

9. Lady and the Tramp (2019)

Disney+ launched with a sweet treat for dog lovers: a live-action remake of Lady and the Tramp featuring a pack of real, lovable pups. The film directed by Charlie Bean smartly expands on the original story of a dog feeling displaced by a new baby while preserving the themes that made the 1955 animation a classic. The Siamese cat song has been rightfully removed, and all of the dogs in the movie are rescues, adding an extra layer of heart to the already charming film. However, Bean’s decision to animate the dogs’ mouths is a misstep that distracts from the film’s genuine moments. It’s a shame, as the performances from the furry cast are more than enough to carry the film, making it a delight for all ages to enjoy.

8. Mulan (2019)

Liu Yifei’s captivating performance, stunningly choreographed action scenes, and bold departure from the original story make the 2020 Mulan a refreshing and empowering addition to Disney’s collection of remakes. This portrayal of the legendary Chinese heroine as a fierce and fearless warrior is a necessary update that resonates with modern audiences. However, the film did not come without its share of controversies, with some fans expressing disappointment over the removal of the beloved character Li Shang and the lack of Asian representation in the film’s behind-the-scenes talent. In response to these criticisms, director Niki Caro defended her hiring, explaining that she was chosen for her ability to navigate both Chinese culture and the distinct style of Disney. Despite these criticisms, Mulan stands as a visually stunning spectacle and a worthy addition to Disney filmography.

7. Christopher Robin (2018)

Christopher Robin brings the beloved Winnie the Pooh to life in a heartwarming tale that’s sure to tug at your heartstrings. Ewan McGregor shines as a grown-up Christopher, who reunites with his childhood friends in the Hundred Acre Wood after Pooh ventures into the real world to find him. Jim Cummings brings Pooh’s iconic voice to life, while the CGI rendering of the lovable bear adds a new layer of charm. Though the film bears similarities to “Hook,” director Marc Forster infuses Christopher Robin with a unique charm that delivers some truly sweet moments. However, McGregor’s underdeveloped character can be a bit distracting at times, pulling focus away from the film’s true star: Pooh and his pals.

6. Peter Pan & Wendy (2023)

David Lowery’s adaptation of Peter Pan focuses on the complex relationship between Peter and Captain Hook, exploring the theme of friendship in a visually stunning and emotionally resonant way. Despite its truncated runtime and underdeveloped characters and plot points, the film remains a delightful adaptation that captures the youthful energy and vulnerability of the characters. With endearing performances from Alexander Molony and Jude Law, Peter Pan & Wendy breathes new life into the timeless story, making it a must-watch for fans of the classic tale.

5. Cruella (2021)

Emma Stone steals the show as the infamous Cruella de Vil in this devilishly entertaining film about a young designer battling her cruel boss, the Baroness, portrayed with panache by Emma Thompson. With stunning costume reveals that blur the line between fashion and art, Cruella sets a new bar for the Disney remake genre. While the film pays homage to 101 Dalmatians, it stands on its own as a thrilling, stylish origin story that explores the complex character of Cruella. Director Craig Gillespie expertly balances nods to the original while creating a narrative that feels fresh and original. And despite her villainous reputation, it’s impossible not to root for this fierce and fascinating protagonist.

4. The Jungle Book (2016)

In 2016’s The Jungle Book, Jon Favreau delivers a visually stunning adaptation that immerses audiences in a lush and vibrant world. Cinematographer Bill Pope’s work perfectly captures the beauty and danger of the jungle, while Neel Sethi’s performance as Mowgli adds a human element to the animal-filled landscape. And let’s not forget the fantastic voice acting, particularly Bill Murray’s charming portrayal of Baloo. However, the film’s mix of live-action and talking animals can be jarring at times, taking away from the overall realism of the experience. Despite this flaw, The Jungle Book remains a thrilling adventure and a testament to the power of visual storytelling.

3. Beauty and the Beast (2017)

Some people might disagree with my ranking for this one, but Beauty and the Beast is personal and close to my heart so that’s why It’s high on the list. Bill Condon’s Beauty and the Beast remake is a true love letter to the original Disney classic. The film does an exceptional job of staying true to the source material, while also adding some welcomed new elements to the story. The new musical numbers, such as “Evermore,” are beautifully crafted and blend seamlessly into the film’s existing soundtrack. The stunning visuals and impressive CGI work make the enchanted castle and its inhabitants come to life in a way that was never possible in the original animated film. Emma Watson and Dan Stevens have incredible chemistry as Belle and the Beast, and the film’s supporting cast, including Luke Evans as Gaston and Josh Gad as LeFou, are absolutely delightful. Overall, Beauty and the Beast is a wonderful retelling of a beloved classic that will leave audiences feeling enchanted and fulfilled.

2. Pete’s Dragon (2016)

David Lowery’s Pete’s Dragon remake is nothing short of a Disney masterpiece, according to IndieWire’s David Ehrlich. Lowery’s script, co-written with Toby Halbrooks, builds upon the original 1977 gem and captures the magic that made the story of a boy and his dragon so endearing. Unlike the original, the new Pete’s Dragon doesn’t include any songs, a decision that some fans may find disappointing. However, this allows the film to focus on the heartwarming story of friendship without any distractions. The film’s attention to detail and emotional depth make it a must-see for fans of the original and newcomers alike.

1. Cinderella (2016)

Lily James shines as the charming Cinderella in this enchanting retelling of the classic fairytale, with Cate Blanchett as the wickedly captivating Lady Tremaine. The film boasts a stunning production design that transports you to a world of magic and wonder, and screenwriter Chris Weitz brings depth to the story with an exploration of the true meaning of happily ever after. However, the film does have its drawbacks. The CGI animals can feel out of place and distract from the overall experience. Additionally, while the film stays faithful to the original story, director Kenneth Branagh doesn’t offer much new or innovative for those seeking a fresh take on the beloved tale. Nonetheless, Cinderella is a delightful journey back to a world of fantasy and romance.