Why Are Disney’s Live-Action Remakes So Bad?

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The Lion King,” which followed a similar path, earning only a fraction of what the initial live-action “Lion King” made in cinemas.

What’s the reason behind this recurring occurrence? Our latest Disney video delves into that exact question by examining recent live-action remakes and identifying patterns of issues that consistently arise in all of them. Additionally, we’ll clarify the distinction between a remake and an adaptation, and offer suggestions on how Disney can enhance their films for future releases.

Watch our full breakdown of Disney’s live-action remake problem below:

If you enjoyed our recent video discussing recurring issues with Disney’s live-action remakes, feel free to explore additional content we have available. For instance, delve into our insights on why Disney finds it hard to move past its history, a critique of the least successful Disney sequels, and an intriguing comparison between Disney and Pixar villains. Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel at ScreenCrush for access to all future episodes. Right now, catch Lilo & Stitch in cinemas across the country.

10 Disney Movies That Deserve Their Own Rides

1. Up

Given the success of Pixar’s “Up”, it’s surprising that the theme parks haven’t included the film in a ride before now. The unique mode of transportation used by characters Carl, Russell, and Dug – an old house floating on thousands of colorful balloons – offers numerous creative opportunities. Given much of the movie is set in mid-air, it’s simple to envision a Soarin’ Around The World-style simulator that transports passengers to the stunning Paradise Falls, through the jungle, and up to the Spirit of Adventure zeppelin. This ride would be enjoyable, provided one condition is met: They omit the first 10 minutes of the movie, as we aim for fun rather than excessive tearshedding.

2. Atlantis: The Lost Empire

In a bygone era, it was envisioned that the animated film “Atlantis: The Lost Empire” would initiate its own Disney series. However, due to underwhelming box office performance, plans for sequels were abandoned. Although “Atlantis: The Lost Empire” didn’t garner much acclaim upon its premiere, it has since evolved into a cult favorite. Moreover, its premise is quite fascinating, drawing inspiration from Jules Verne’s novel “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea.” Had this movie received more recognition initially, it could have been transformed into an underwater adventure ride, similar to the one based on “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea” at Walt Disney World. Regrettably, that ride was replaced in 1994 and is now part of the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train area. If only the movie had been more successful, it would have been a perfect fit for such a reimagined underwater adventure ride.

3. Wreck-It Ralph

The movie “Wreck-It Ralph” offers an exciting theme for a ride experience due to its captivating mini-worlds. Notably, the game within the film called “Sugar Rush” is a sugar-filled racing journey ready to unfold. Similar to Radiator Springs Racers (a ride based on the “Cars” franchise at Disney’s California Adventure), a Wreck-It Ralph attraction could incorporate two distinct vehicles competing against each other throughout the adventure. The opportunity for world-building is abundant through special effects, and the ride could include both indoor and outdoor sequences. While there have been whispers of potential Wreck-It Ralph rides, nothing has been set in stone yet.

4. WALL-E

A WALL-E themed ride would seamlessly blend into Tomorrowland, offering an exhilarating experience similar to Star Tours but with WALL-E as the captain instead of C-3PO. The adventure could commence on Earth within WALL-E’s self-made refuge, leading guests up to the Axiom spaceship. Given the immense popularity and critical acclaim of WALL-E, it’s a bit unexpected that the film did not have a more prominent role in any of the parks. With an entire land dedicated to space travel and futuristic themes, WALL-E appears to be an ideal match for this area.

5. Mulan

Mulan, having garnered enough popularity to spark a live-action remake, didn’t quite reach the level needed to initiate plans for an attraction. However, we believe that Mushu deserves his moment in the spotlight. Given Epcot’s Chinese-themed pavilion, a Mulan ride could seamlessly fit in. As Mulan is action-packed, a roller coaster would be a suitable choice. Visitors could embark on the Great Stone Dragon, speeding past Hun soldiers, Chinese architecture, and even encounter Mulan herself. The ride would culminate at the dramatic point where Mulan overcomes Shan Yu.

6. The Jungle Book

Even though the Disney parks feature the Jungle Cruise, we’re yet to have an attraction inspired by The Jungle Book. Characters like Mowgli, Baloo, and the rest of their jungle friends would blend perfectly with the lush environment of Adventureland. Imagine sailing along the river in your boat, with Baloo crooning “Bare Necessities” from the riverbank. Introducing characters from The Jungle Book to the Jungle Cruise would be a small enhancement, but it would certainly sprinkle more Disney enchantment onto an already delightful ride. And let’s not forget about all the pun-tastic jokes the skippers could come up with!

7. Brave

At Disney parks, there has been significant success with their interactive, arcade-style rides such as Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters and Toy Story Midway Mania. However, one aspect they seem to be lacking is archery. Imagine an immersive dark ride based on the movie Brave where you are equipped with a bow and tasked with hitting moving targets by firing imaginary arrows. The more challenging the target, the higher the points you earn. Potential locations could be Merida’s castle Dunbroch, the witch’s woodworking shop, and the highlands of Scotland. Just be cautious not to hit any will-o’-the-wisps as it is said to bring bad luck!

8. The Emperor’s New Groove

In my opinion, among the unique gems in Disney’s treasure trove of films, “The Emperor’s New Groove” truly stands out. This film’s peculiar storyline is brilliantly brought to life by its exceptional voice cast, featuring the likes of David Spade as the self-absorbed Emperor Kuzco, John Goodman as the kind-hearted Pacha, Eartha Kitt as the cunning Yzma, and Patrick Warburton as the clumsy Kronk.

If a ride based on “The Emperor’s New Groove” were to materialize, it could certainly offer an array of exciting possibilities. One intriguing concept could be a flume ride. When Yzma instructs Kronk to pull the lever, that moment perfectly sets up a thrilling, high-speed plunge – just like their own escapade en route to Yzma’s secret lab. As Pacha and Kuzco, now transformed into a llama, hurtle downstream tied to a tree trunk, the second drop could occur as they sail over a massive waterfall. Rocks at the bottom? I’d welcome the challenge!

9. Hercules

As a movie reviewer, I’d say that Disney’s underappreciated gem, “Hercules,” is not just a forgotten classic but also a clever, hilarious, and heartwarming tale that deserves another look. Its unforgettable soundtrack, with tracks like the inspiring “Zero to Hero” and Megara’s emotional ballad “I Won’t Say (I’m In Love),” sets it apart from other Disney movies.

Imagine stepping into a magical world on a thrilling ride called “Hercules’ Quest,” where you hop on Pegasus, Hercules’ loyal steed, and embark on an adventure starting high atop Mount Olympus. As we journey down through the Underworld, we encounter Hades with his signature wit and charm. After rescuing Megara from Hades’ clutches, we return triumphantly to Mount Olympus, where the Muses serenade us with a spectacular performance of “A Star Is Born.”

At the end of our adventure, a gift shop awaits with an array of Hercules merchandise inspired by the movie, including the coveted Air-Hercs shoes. It’s time for Disney to bring this timeless story and its beloved characters back into the spotlight!

10. National Treasure

In 2007, the movies “National Treasure” and its follow-up “Book of Secrets” were grabbing headlines. With “Book of Secrets” ending on a cliffhanger, discussions about a third film had already started. At this time, Nicolas Cage, the franchise’s lead actor, expressed his dream of having a “National Treasure” ride at Disneyland. The series seemed primed to become Disney’s new “Indiana Jones,” but several factors prevented it from reaching full potential. While “Indiana Jones” has endured as a timeless classic, “National Treasure,” though cherished by many, lacks that same staying power. Consequently, the Indiana Jones Adventure’s Temple of the Forbidden Eye was never transformed into the subterranean City of Gold from “Book of Secrets.” However, an exhilarating dark ride transporting passengers to the fabled City of Gold would have been incredible, and a mechanical Nicolas Cage battling a mechanical Ed Harris would have become a legendary moment.

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2025-05-30 17:55