Disney’s policy of remaking animated films into live-action adaptations has been hit and miss in recent years.
It started with The Jungle Book in 1994, followed by 101 Dalmatians in 1996. It has ramped up in recent years, hitting a commercial high point with Beauty & the Beast in 2017 and The Lion King in 2019, but faltering with the recent Snow White.
This month, Disney's latest remake, revisiting Lilo & Stitch (2002), is in cinemas. The original film was a big hit with millennials and Gen Z, and its success could trigger a new chapter from the 2000s animation era.
In anticipation of the Lilo & Stitch release, we look at other animated Disney films that could end up next on the list.
The Emperor's New Groove (2000)
Those who browsed the social media site Tumblr during the height of its popularity will remember just how popular The Emperor’s New Groove was. The absurdist comedy, which follows an emperor who is turned into a llama, is still well regarded 25 years after its release.
The Emperor’s New Groove may earn a live-action adaptation for two reasons. First, it is the closest analogue to Lilo & Stitch, a film beloved by people who are now the parents of Gen Alpha. And second, the highlights from Peru and the Inca Empire may prove to be an ideal setting for a live-action film.
Atlantis: The Lost Empire (2001)
Upon its release in 2001, Atlantis: The Lost Empire captured imaginations with its adventurous theme. Despite being only 95 minutes long, the film felt like watching Lawrence of Arabia thanks to its grandeur and stature.
The ragtag team of explorers, each with their own skill set and distinct personality, could make for a compelling theatrical experience. A live-action version could follow the path and style of James Cameron's Avatar series to similar effect.
Treasure Planet (2002)
Often forgotten, Treasure Planet is an animated film that mixed classic drawn animation style with modern CGI effects. It reimagined the story of Treasure Island in a futuristic space setting. But despite the efforts of directors Ron Clements and John Musker, the duo behind The Little Mermaid, Aladdin and Hercules, the film bombed at the box office.
Years later, the film has found an audience who enjoy the mixture of styles that viewers at the turn of the millennium perhaps weren't ready for. And with the use of modern CGI technology, it could be a Guardians of the Galaxy-like hit.
Titan A.E. (2000)
Produced by 20th Century Fox, now owned by Disney, this film is a more mature option for potential adaptation. The story follows a young man who fled the destruction of Earth and now lives among aliens as a servant. Uncovered secrets about his father lead him on a quest to a space barracks that could aid him and fellow space creatures to defeat a parasitic enemy.
Titan A.E. has been unjustly forgotten, despite being co-directed by pioneer Don Bluth. A live-action adaptation could make use of the thrilling story and, because it is unknown to many, would feel more fresh than other remake options.
