Disney ventured into live-action adaptations of its classic animated films during the '90s, with titles like 101 Dalmatians and its sequel, 102 Dalmatians. However, everything changed in 2015 with the release of Cinderella, followed by The Jungle Book in 2016, both of which were box office successes. But it was the unprecedented success of Beauty and the Beast in 2017—a film that grossed over a billion dollars—that cemented Disney’s commitment to this trend.
Fast forward to today, as Disney prepares to release another anticipated live-action remake of the cherished Lilo & Stitch. This film arrives hot on the heels of Snow White, further fueling the studio’s nostalgia-driven strategy. In light of this resurgence, we’ve curated a list of what we believe are the Best Live-Action Disney Remakes.
While some purists may dismiss these adaptations due to concerns over commercialization or perceived lack of soul compared to their animated predecessors, there are undeniable highlights. Certain directors approach these projects with genuine respect for the source material, reimagining the stories in meaningful and innovative ways. Which live-action remake resonates most with you? Is it among our picks? Cast your vote in our poll below.
(Note: This list focuses solely on remakes—not prequels, sequels, or reinterpretations like Maleficent or Cruella.)