How to produce epic live-action movies!

Film studios are transforming animated classics into live-action movies, using innovative visual effects and modern storytelling techniques to bring well-known characters to life. 

At Voice123, where you can hire voice actors for any AV project, we’ll explore the best Disney live-action movies, live-action anime movies, and tips for filmmakers from upcoming live-action movies. 

Top 10 Disney live-action movies 

1. The Jungle Book (2016)  

This live-action movie has a 94% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Bill Murray and Idris Elba’s voice overs for Baloo and Shere Khan capture the essence of the original story. 

2. The Lion King (2019)

One of the best Disney live-action remakes features James Earl Jones as Mufasa and Beyoncé as Nala. The film modernized the beloved animated classic while staying true to the original’s emotional appeal. 

3. Pete’s Dragon (2016)  

This live-action movie tells a heartwarming story of friendship and loyalty. The CGI work on Elliot and the cast of Bryce Dallas Howard and Robert Redford added depth and emotion to the story. 

4. Aladdin (2019)

Will Smith’s lively take on the Genie, paired with visual effects and Naomi Scott’s modernized portrayal of Jasmine, helped successfully reinvent one of the best Disney live-action remakes.

5. Cruella (2021)  

The origin story of Cruella de Vil turned a classic villain into a complex and charismatic character. Emma Stone’s bold performance and the film’s intriguing narrative made it one of the best Disney live-action movies.

6. Cinderella (2015) 

Lily James stars as Cinderella in one of the most iconic Disney live-action movies. The film’s striking visual effects and Cate Blanchett’s performance gave this remake an elegant and emotionally resonant narrative. 

7. Mulan (2020)

With epic battle sequences, a more realistic, action-focused narrative, and Liu Yifei’s performance as Mulan, this live-action movie was a bold and empowering take on a classic.

8. Beauty and the Beast (2017)  

One of the best Disney live-action movies featured striking production design, iconic musical numbers, and strong performances from Emma Watson and Dan Stevens. 

9. Maleficent (2014)  

These Disney live-action remakes of Sleeping Beauty are a complex villain origin story from Maleficent’s perspective. Angelina Jolie’s portrayal and the film’s unique storytelling created a compelling live-action movie.

10. Christopher Robin (2018)  

Ewan McGregor’s heartfelt performance as an adult Christopher Robin and Jim Cummings’ voice acting created a nostalgic story about finding happiness in simple things.

Upcoming live-action movies

1. Lilo & Stitch: These Disney live-action remakes will feature a CG version of Stitch voiced by Chris Sanders and Maia Kealoha as Lilo; the movie is scheduled for release in 2025. 

2. Mufasa: This prequel will explore Mufasa’s origin story. The voice cast will feature Aaron Pierre as a young Mufasa, and John Kani will reprise his role as Rafiki. 

3. Moana: This live-action remake will feature Dwayne Johnson reprising his role as Maui and Catherine Laga’aia as Moana. The film is still in production and will be released in 2026. 

4. How to Train Your Dragon: One of the most highly anticipated upcoming live-action movies will feature a CGI version of Toothless, with Gerard Butler reprising his role as Stoick and Mason Thames as Hiccup. It is scheduled to be released in 2025.

5. Snow White: Starring Rachel Zegler as Snow White and Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen, these Disney live-action movies will add a modern touch to a classic story. The film will be released in 2025.  

How to produce successful live-action movies

1. Stay true to the original: A successful live-action movie should capture the heart and essence of the original story. It’s important to honor key moments so long-time fans will feel a sense of nostalgia.

2. Use visual effects: High-quality CGI and visual effects are essential to bringing animated characters and fantastical worlds to life. Immersive AV design can make the characters and setting more believable.

3. Cast the right actors: Choosing actors who embody the spirit of the characters can make or break a live-action adaptation. The right actors or voice actors can elevate the emotional depth and relatability of the film.

4. Balance nostalgia with innovation: While staying true to the original, it’s important to introduce new elements to keep live-action animated movies engaging for new audiences and give them a modern appeal.

5. Create a clear vision: A solid screenplay is crucial for bringing out the emotional depth and visual style of live-action adaptations. Thoughtful storytelling and character arcs help ensure the film resonates with audiences.

Final Thoughts on live-action movies

Live-action movies continue to captivate audiences by blending nostalgia with cutting-edge technology. And the right cast and voice actors can bring beloved stories to life in new, exciting ways. 

So, if you need a voice actor for your AV projects, search Voice123 for professional talent or use Voice123 for Companies to get complete project management. 

FAQs on live-action movies