From Animation to Real Life: Disney’s Production of Live Actions By: Katie Ho

Disney—known for their classic animation films—has recently released even more of their production. However, there is a twist; they are releasing live action films. Disney has been producing animated films for decades, leaving a mark of fairytale in many people's childhood. However, in recent years, Disney's production of live action movies has gradually increased, specially re-makes live actions of their classic animated films. Animations such as The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella, Snow White, and so much more have recently resurfaced as live action. Many people are thrilled to see the new recreations; however, others are not so much.

While many people consider some Disney's live actions to be a success, many also believe a portion of the new live actions are “flops.” Mckenna Hawkins, a student at Hillgrove High School, stated, “I think that they've definitely done some good ones. The Little Mermaid was pretty good; Beauty and The Beast is pretty good, Cinderella.” She added, “But I feel they change a lot that people don't agree with. Like the Snow White, they tried to change up the story, so the whole classic story didn't really go with it, and people really didn't like that.” Explaining how some of the live actions were in fact good, and only a few stood out. Maya Ellis, also a student at Hillgrove High School, stated, “I know a lot of times we have to change a bunch of things because the fans dislike certain aspects of the movies they put out. But I also think that reception will always be bad because people are sentimental. Everybody likes the original more.” Suggesting that the audience will always prefer the original story over the revised version.

Though many may consider the live actions to be a failure, there are parts where praise for the efforts of Disney is present. "They opened more doors for definitely, different cultures and different races to pursue in their dreams.” Madison Johnson, also a student at Hillgrove High School, explained. Suggesting Disney’s process of live action production opened doors for diversity and opportunity. Mckenna Hawkins also included, “I feel like they've done a lot of good. Like the Little Mermaid, I feel like they did a good job with that. Like you could tell, they added in some common things, like feminism, like that type of movement. But it was not to the point where it changed the entire story, like it kept its original roots.” Expressing how Disney managed to include positive aspects. 

Disney’s newer productions of live action movies have sparked many diverse types of opinions, ranging from positive to negative. For some, live actions serve positively as a gateway for inclusion and social statements. However, others may view it negatively, claiming the drastic change takes away from the original classic films. Regardless of opinions, it is certain that Disney is growing continuously and will continue to express their classic animated films through live action.