Disney, recognized worldwide for its classic animations, has increasingly invested in live-action adaptations of its hits. These films are often the subject of criticism and expectations from fans, who hope to see their favorite stories come to life in a unique and engaging way. Therefore, here we list the 5 best Disney live-action films to date.
It is worth saying that the ranking was based exclusively on the scores assigned by specialized critics and did not necessarily represent the real quality of the film or its appeal to the public.
5. Beauty and the Beast (2017) – 65
Starting off our list, 2017’s “Beauty and the Beast” is a charming adaptation of the 1991 animated classic. Emma Watson plays the role of Belle, delivering a captivating performance that has received praise from fans and critics alike.
Fidelity to the original plot, combined with the magic of modern visual effects, provided a memorable cinematic experience and made it one of Disney’s best live-action films.
The score of 65 might suggest that the film hasn’t reached the pinnacle of excellence, but it’s worth considering that critics can be harsh on adaptations that inevitably face comparisons to the animated originals.
However, 2017’s “Beauty and the Beast” managed to capture the essence of the fairy tale while adding elements that updated it for contemporary audiences.
4. Mulan (2020) – 66
“Mulan,” from 2020, presents a more realistic and epic approach to the original narrative. By opting for a more serious tone and moving away from the traditional musical, the film managed to win over a new audience by honoring the legend of Hua Mulan.
The protagonist, played by Liu Yifei, brought strength and determination to the character, receiving praise for her convincing performance.
The score of 66 reflects a lukewarm reception from critics, who may have been influenced by some significant changes from the 1998 animation. However, “Mulan’s” courage in taking a different path deserves recognition, and the stunning cinematography and the impressive action choreography help create a unique film. visual experience and ranks as one of Disney’s best live-action films.
3. Cinderella (2015) – 67
The live-action adaptation of “Cinderella,” released in 2015, is a stunning recreation of the classic fairy tale. Directed by Kenneth Branagh, the film features Lily James as Cinderella and Cate Blanchett as the evil stepmother. The production has received praise for its visual beauty, extraordinary costumes and ability to capture the timeless magic of the original story.
The score of 67 may suggest a modest reception, but it is important to highlight that “Cinderella” managed to rejuvenate a widely known narrative, adding nuance and depth to the characters. The compelling soundtrack and chemistry between the cast contributed to the film’s success and made it one of Disney’s best live-action films.
2. My Friend the Dragon (2016) – 71
2016’s “My Friend the Dragon” represents Disney’s foray into live-action that combines real actors with animated elements. This reinterpretation of the 1977 classic offers a modern and exciting approach, captivating both children and older audiences.
The combination of drama, adventure and fantasy, combined with technological advances, created a fascinating film and one of Disney’s best live-action films.
The score of 71 suggests a more positive reception than the previously mentioned films. The recovery of the original story with contemporary touches and the construction of exciting characters contributed to the favorable score. “My Friend the Dragon” is proof that Disney can reinvent its classics in surprising ways.
1. The Jungle Book (2016) – 77
Topping the list of Disney’s best live-action films is 2016’s “The Jungle Book,” a remarkable adaptation that combines live-action and cutting-edge visual effects. Directed by Jon Favreau, the film transports audiences to the jungle, offering a visually stunning experience.
Rudyard Kipling’s timeless story is grippingly told, with Neel Sethi shining as Mowgli.
The score of 77 reflects the warm reception “The Jungle Book” has received from critics. The successful fusion of live-action elements with CGI animation, combined with a compelling narrative, resulted in a film that exceeded expectations. The attention to detail in the creation of the digital animals and the compelling narrative were aspects highlighted by critics.
Ultimately, Disney’s live-action films face the challenge of balancing the nostalgia of animated classics with the need for innovation. Each film included here has unique characteristics that have contributed to its critical reception. While some have been praised for their faithfulness to the original stories, others have stood out for their courage in exploring new approaches.
It’s important to recognize that criticism is subjective and that scores don’t always reflect each viewer’s personal experience, and ultimately choosing the “best” live-action Disney films is a matter of personal taste.
The 5 Best Disney Live-Action According to Critics appeared first on Olhar Digital.
Source: Olhar Digital
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
