When I think of movies that made up my childhood, a majority of them are Disney classics. Some of my favorite films from the ‘90s are movies like Toy Story, The Little Mermaid, and Mulan. And now that I’m a mom, introducing the same Disney animated films to my kids has been enjoyable to witness, too. One animated film my kids love is Moana. So, when they found out that the live-action version comes out this summer, they immediately requested that we watch it in theaters as a must-watch summer movie.
And once my kids watch an animated Disney film, they usually follow up their experience with the question, “Is there a real-people version we can watch, too?” This leads to browsing the Disney+ app for more live-action remakes. In fact, several Disney live-action remakes (and spin-off villain origin stories) are already available on Disney+, with even more reportedly in the works. Plus, a few are set to hit the theaters in the future, too! For anyone as excited as we are about this trend, we pulled together a list of Disney live-action remake movies you can watch now, sorted by age, those coming soon, and flicks said to be cancelled if you had them on your radar.
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Disney Live-Action Movies for Kids (Ages 3-7)
Moana
Rating: PG | Run Time: 1h 55m | Where to Watch: In theaters July 10, 2026
While not as old as other classic films on this list, none of us—especially our little ones—were able to get enough Moana when the original animated flick came out in 2016. And now, a live-action remake is officially in theaters! While Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson is reprising his role as Maui, the original Moana, Auli’i Cravalho, is returning in a behind-the-scenes role as an executive producer. Newcomer Catherine Laga’aia instead stars as the titular character. We can’t wait to have “How Far I’ll Go” and “You’re Welcome” stuck in our heads all over again!
Want to learn more? Read our Editor-in-Chief’s review of the live action Moana after seeing the new movie with her son!
Lilo & Stitch (2025)
Rating: PG | Run Time: 1h 51m | Where to Watch: Disney+
The live-action Lilo & Stitch is a retelling of the 2002 animated flick of the same name—a young girl named Lilo and her sister, Nani, adopt a dog from their local shelter. Except Stitch is actually not a dog. He’s an alien who escaped from planet Turo. The story is sure to delight kids and parents alike, and there’s already a live-action sequel in the works!
Snow White (2025)
Rating: PG | Run Time: 1h 54m | Where to Watch: Disney+
Starring Rachel Zegler as the title character and Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen, this remake is a modern retelling of Walt Disney’s very first animated feature film, 1937’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. When Princess Snow White flees her castle and the wrath of her evil stepmother, she runs into the deep woods, where she meets seven magical dwarfs and a young thief named Jonathan. Together, they plan to take back the kingdom from the Evil Queen.
The Little Mermaid (2023)
Rating: PG | Run Time: 2h 21m | Where to Watch: Disney+
In 2023, we finally got the remake I’d personally been looking forward to for years. Based on the 1989 animated movie of the same name, this modern movie-musical starred Halle Bailey as Ariel. Much like the original, a young mermaid becomes curious about humans after saving a sailor from drowning. In exchange for her beautiful voice, a wicked sea witch offers to give her legs. She doesn’t realize the deal she made will put her at risk of losing more than just her voice.
101 Dalmatians (1996)
Rating: G | Run Time: 1h 44m | Where to Watch: Disney+
Inspired by the same animated film that brought us Cruella, it is a remake of the 1961 story, 101 Dalmatians. Proud new parents to 15 puppies, Pongo and Perdita feel threatened when a fashion designer sets her sights on Dalmatian fur. The duo, along with other local animals, set out to protect their own from the evil Cruella de Vil.
Disney Live-Action Movies for Tweens (Ages 8-12)
Peter Pan and Wendy (2023)
Rating: PG | Run Time: 1h 47m | Where to Watch: Disney+
We’ve seen a few renditions of the Peter Pan story in the past (think Finding Neverland and Hook), but this latest iteration is truly one of the best. With some familiar faces (like Jude Law) paired with newer actors, this beloved story about growing up. Join Peter Pan, Tinker Bell, Captain Hook, and more of the original characters for this new adventure in Neverland.
Pinocchio (2022)
Rating: PG | Run Time: 1h 54m | Where to Watch: Disney+
Starring Tom Hanks as Geppetto, this is a remake of the 1940 film that’s based on a classic Italian novel, The Adventures of Pinocchio. A master craftsman, Geppetto, creates a boy made out of wood and treats him as if he were his real son. Pinocchio has big dreams of becoming a ‘real boy,’ and a fairy grants his wish under the condition that he lives a virtuous life.
The Lion King (2019)
Rating: PG | Run Time: 2h 7m | Where to Watch: Disney+
In 2019, Disney gifted us a film that all but put us physically in the heart of Africa with the same beloved characters from the 1994 animated movie. Young Simba is looking forward to the day he gets to take his father’s place as king, but his Uncle Scar is less than thrilled about the succession plan. He starts a deadly battle over the kingdom and changes Simba’s life forever. With an all-star cast including Donald Glover, Beyoncé, Seth Rogan, and more, this is one not to look over. Once you finish watching, tune into Mufasa: The Lion King, a 2024 release that tells King Mufasa’s origin story while serving as both a prequel and sequel to The Lion King.
Aladdin (2019)
Rating: PG | Run Time: 2h 16m | Where to Watch: Disney+
After the devastating loss of Robin Williams, who famously portrayed the Genie in the 1992 animated version of this movie, fans found it hard to believe that anyone would be able to fill his big shoes in the live-action remake. But most viewers were delighted by Will Smith’s take on the role in 2019’s Aladdin. Like the original, the new film follows ‘street-rat’ Aladdin, the charming Princess Jasmine, and the out-of-this-world Genie.
Dumbo (2019)
Rating: PG | Run Time: 1h 57m | Where to Watch: Disney+
This film is a live-action remake of the classic 1941 animated Disney flick of the same name. In Dumbo, circus elephant Jumbo gives birth to a calf with abnormally large ears. It’s soon revealed that little Dumbo’s special ears actually allow him to fly, and he astounds everyone at the circus with his unexpected talent. The live-action film remake stars Colin Farrell, Danny DeVito, and Michael Keaton and is directed by Tim Burton.
Lady & The Tramp (2019)
Rating: PG | Run Time: 1h 53m | Where to Watch: Disney+
Drawing inspiration all the way back from 1955 is the story of our favorite pooches and their epic love story. Lady, a prim and proper American Cocker Spaniel, is the center of her owners’ world. That is until they bring a newborn baby home. After a series of unfortunate events, Lady finds herself on the streets, scared and alone. That’s when she meets Tramp, a stray who knows the streets all too well. The two form an undeniable connection that is eventually tested by the realities of their separate lives.
Beauty & The Beast (2017)
Rating: PG | Run Time: 2h 20m | Where to Watch: Disney+
A quick rewatch of the original film tells us that this story was born to come to life in a live-action remake. Plus, seeing Emma Watson play Belle is some of the best casting fans could hope for. When attempting to rescue her father, Belle becomes captive to a Beast in a castle. Before long, her good heart draws her to befriend the Beast. Soon, she learns more of his history and the kindness he hides within.
The Jungle Book (2016)
Rating: PG | Run Time: 1h 49m | Where to Watch: Disney+
One of the bare necessities of a perfect family movie night is watching this remake together. Raised by a wolf pack from a young age, Mowgli has made a home for himself in the jungle. But when a fearful tiger who has encountered humans before sees him as a threat, he is forced out. As he sets out to find where he belongs, he’s accompanied by a wise panther named Bagheera and a lovable bear named Baloo. With beloved voices like Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson, this is sure to be a family favorite.
Cinderella (2015)
Rating: PG | Run Time: 1h 50m | Where to Watch: Disney+
If there’s one story that can be told again and again and not lose its charm, it’s Cinderella. We loved seeing Hilary Duff’s modern spin in A Cinderella Story. And couldn’t get enough of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s 1997 Cinderella remake with Brandy. And while I’m a sucker for the original, the 2015 live-action remake brought the classic tale to life in a whole new way. Lily James stars as Ella, who lives with her harsh stepmother and step-sisters. Escaping for one magical night, with the help of her fairy godmother, she attends a ball hosted by the prince. Little does she know, the magic of that night may just change her life forever. The best part? This remake offers some valuable life lessons we can all take with us, like having courage and being kind.
Maleficent (2014)
Rating: PG | Run Time: 1h 40m | Where to Watch: Disney+
Angelina Jolie set the bar incredibly high for villain-focused Disney live-action remakes in her role as Maleficent. In this unique spin on the classic Sleeping Beauty story, a young girl is determined to protect her home in the forest kingdom from an invading army. When she is betrayed, she transforms from a girl with a pure heart to a fierce villain who places a curse on the king’s daughter, Aurora. The 2019 sequel, Maleficent: Mistress of Evil, is also available to stream on Disney+. And for families who love the Maleficent movies, Maleficent 3 is in production!
Alice in Wonderland (2010)
Rating: PG | Run Time: 1h 53m | Where to Watch: Disney+
There’s nothing quite like a trip down the rabbit hole. And this time around is even more exciting than the original—probably because it was directed by Tim Burton. This time, Alice is an adult who hasn’t experienced Wonderland since she was a child. In the magical world, she must uncover her true destiny. In a highly theatrical role, Johnny Depp plays the iconic Mad Hatter, accompanied by Anne Hathaway as the White Queen.
Disney Live-Action Movies for Teens (13+)
Mulan (2020)
Rating: PG-13 | Run Time: 1h 58m | Where to Watch: Disney+
Thanks to Mulan, we all learned from a young age how powerful we can be when we set our minds to something, no matter the obstacles we face. This remake from 2020 stars Liu Yifei as Mulan, who fights for her family and country and becomes one of the greatest warriors China had ever seen. Taking the place of her ill father, she must pretend to be a man and serve in China’s Imperial Army, defending her country against northern invaders. However, it’s important that the live-action version is more suitable for older kids and is rated PG-13. Unlike the 1998 cartoon, viewers can expect more violent scenes with sword fighting, shooting arrows, battles, and the use of dark magic, which may be frightening for younger kids.
Cruella (2021)
Rating: PG-13 | Run Time: 2h 17m | Where to Watch: Disney+
In the last few years, we’ve seen Disney live-action remakes step outside of the box and offer stories from villains’ perspectives. Anyone else have a little in their life who can’t get enough of Descendants? Since villain origin stories recently became a thing, it would be difficult to find a role quite as iconic as Emma Stone playing Cruella de Vil. In 2021’s Cruella, we follow young designer Cruella as she looks to make a name for herself in London’s fashion industry. We see the series of events that make her become the notoriously wicked character we later know from 101 Dalmatians.
Disney Live-Action Remakes in Development
Tangled
In recent months, Tangled fans finally received the much-anticipated news we’ve all been waiting for. Teagan Croft and Milo Manheim will be playing Rapunzel and the charming bandit Flynn Rider, along with the one-and-only Kathryn Hahn as Mother Gothel, which she personally announced on Instagram this past spring. While the official release date is still unknown, fans are excited for this remake. The beloved 2010 animated film follows Rapunzel, a young princess, who was taken from her home by the evil Mother Gothel. But when Rapunzel decides to leave on her 18th birthday, she runs into a charming bandit named Flynn, who’s on the run. Together, they go on an adventure of a lifetime.
Disney Live-Action Remakes That Have Been Cancelled
Hercules
The specifics of the Disney live-action remake of this 1997 film are still under wraps. But it’s been speculated that it will follow a similar plot to its animated predecessor. A young demigod is raised by mortals. And though he doesn’t know of his destiny yet, he knows he doesn’t fit in among society. While searching for his true place, his evil uncle Hades is determined to keep him from claiming power.
Bambi
I’m already preparing to stock up on Kleenex if a live-action version of this Disney classic ever makes it to theaters. A remake of this animated movie—similar to the modernized Lion King and Jungle Book flicks—was first announced in 2020, and it was later reported that filmmaker Lindsey Beer had completed the movie’s script in 2022. Few details have been revealed about the (hopefully) forthcoming movie since then, with some speculation that it’s been cancelled altogether. We’ll have to wait and see if this one eventually comes to fruition.
The Hunchback of Notre Dame
Another personal favorite from my childhood, a live-action Hunchback of Notre Dame remake, was once rumored to be coming to the big screen, but studios have most likely scrapped the project. An updated version of the 1996 animated film was first announced in January 2019 but, in May 2023, famed Disney composer Alan Menken suggested the movie’s development had stalled due to challenges surrounding the original movie’s sensitive content and themes. “It’s a tough one, because the Hunchback movie… involves a lot of real, real issues that are important issues and should be explored to be discussed. And there has to be an agreement about how we deal with those issues,” he told ComicBook.com at the time.
The Aristocats
While I was excited about the initial announcement of The Aristocats live-action remake, it was announced that the project was scrapped in 2025. The celebrated musician Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson was reportedly planned to direct this live-action film. Here’s to crossing our fingers that it will one day be picked up as a remake. The 1970 animated film followed a group of dignified cats who were set to inherit their human’s fortune. Upon learning this, a greedy butler takes them out of the house and leaves them on the streets of Paris. Here they meet a jazzy street cat named Thomas O’Malley, along with some other funky characters, who help them get home.
The Sword in the Stone
If it’s anything like the 1963 animated film, we’ll see a young boy named Arthur learn about life and his destiny with the help of a wizard named Merlin. Though this remake was once in the works, the latest reports say it has been indefinitely shelved. At least for now.
Robin Hood
Back in 2020, The Hollywood Reporter revealed that a live-action version of 1973’s Robin Hood was in development and would premiere exclusively on Disney+. But very few subsequent details have emerged about the possible film, making me think it’s likely been put on the back burner or shelved entirely.
What’s Next for Disney Live-Action Remakes?
Some of us cheer each time we hear a favorite Disney classic is being remade. While others avoid risking the magic of the original. While we value both sides, we don’t think live-action remakes are going away anytime soon, and we’re suckers for nostalgia. So, you’ll know where to find us whenever we can see our favorite stories in a new light.
While Disney fans are celebrating the official release of the Moana live-action film, studios have unfortunately put many of the other rumored remakes on hold. Or scrapped them indefinitely. We’re not giving up hope. Maybe some of these highly-anticipated movies—like Hercules and The Aristocats—might eventually make it to the big screen. We’ll just have to wait and see! Here’s hoping the success of the live-action Moana and a future Lilo & Stitch 2 proves audiences still love seeing remakes. We love it when Disney moves forward with revamping more of our childhood favorites.
FAQs
What is Disney’s next live-action remake?
The most recent live-action remake is Moana, which will be available to watch in theaters starting July 10, 2026. Disney fans are anticipating that the next live-action release will be Tangled.
What is Disney’s most successful live-action remake?
Disney’s most successful live-action remake is the 2019 release of The Lion King.
Which live-action Disney movies have been cancelled?
Live-action remakes of Hercules, The Aristocats, Bambi, The Sword in the Stone, Robin Hood, and The Hunchback of Notre Dame are said to have been cancelled.
Brett Nicole Hayden, Former Assistant Editor
As a former Assistant Editor, Brett worked with the editors of The Everymom on the content creation process by updating stories, sourcing images and graphics, and pitching and contributing her own articles. Her favorite topics to write about are culture, relationships, and living. She’s also a baby names and family movies expert!
Patty Schepel, Associate Editor
As the Associate Editor, Patty works with The Everymom’s team on pitches, creating original articles, updating existing content, photo sourcing, writing shopping product descriptions, editing freelance articles, and more. With Patty’s passion for writing, experience as a mother of two, and expertise as a pediatric nurse, she brings a thoughtful and informative perspective to The Everymom.
