Disney's iconic Princess brand, which began with the 1937 release of "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs," has seen many of its animated characters brought to life in live-action remakes. While not all princesses have received this treatment, a significant number have, with the recent live-action "Moana" adding to the evolving legacy.
Live-Action Adaptations of Princesses
The live-action remakes offer varied interpretations of beloved characters. Emma Watson's portrayal of Belle in "Beauty and the Beast" (2017) was noted for attempting to balance the original's iconic lines with a new character interpretation, though the material's constraints were evident. Liu Yifei's "Mulan" (2020), released during the pandemic, struggled to gain traction and is noted for Mulan not being a princess by birth but a female warrior. The recent "Moana" (2026) features Catherine Laga'aia, who possesses a pleasant presence and singing voice, but the film itself is criticized for lacking substantial material and physicality, resulting in a performance that feels akin to a school play.
Varying Approaches and Performances
Some adaptations have taken a more revisionist approach. Elle Fanning's Aurora in "Maleficent" presented a different take on the character, though the films did not offer her character particularly rich material. Halle Bailey's performance as Ariel in "The Little Mermaid" (2023) is highlighted as a strong point, providing the primary emotional core in an otherwise "synthetic" adaptation. Despite controversy surrounding her casting, the film garnered nearly $300 million in North America.
Naomi Scott's Jasmine in "Aladdin" (2019) was seen as an improvement on the original's depiction, presenting her as more capable of leadership. Scott's charisma helped her make the role her own, particularly in a film that faced comparisons to Robin Williams' iconic voice performance as the Genie.
Rachel Zegler's Snow White in the upcoming "Snow White" (2025) is noted for a performance that is almost worth watching the film for, despite some "strange and even ghastly elements" like the use of CGI for the dwarf characters. The film aims for a different approach than a direct line-by-line remake.
Unique Cases and Standout Performances
Amy Adams' Giselle in "Enchanted" (2007) and its sequel "Disenchanted" (2022) is a unique case, as the character's transition from animation to live-action is central to the plot. Adams' ability to originate the character and perform with musical-theater energy while treating the role seriously is praised, though the sequel and the original film's satirical approach are noted as drawbacks.
Lily James' Cinderella in "Cinderella" (2015) is recognized for a grounded yet magical take on the classic. The film provided a strong showcase for James, allowing her to portray a distinct character rather than a generic archetype. While perhaps not riveting for all audiences, it offered a unique perspective on the familiar story.