Disney's live-action remake train shows no signs of slowing down, especially after the success of Lilo & Stitch (which already has a sequel in the works) and the recent release of Moana. But while these films can feel like safe bets—or worse, shameless cash grabs—they also offer a chance to revisit lesser-known animated treasures that never got their due. Instead of recycling Beauty and the Beast or Mulan yet again, why not give some overlooked classics the live-action treatment they deserve?
Here are eight Disney animated movies that would shine in live-action, blending nostalgia with fresh storytelling potential.
Atlantis: The Lost Empire (2001)
Michael J. Fox leads an expedition to the lost city of Atlantis in this steampunk-inspired adventure. The voice cast includes James Garner, Cree Summer, and Leonard Nimoy. At the time of its release, audiences weren't sure who it was for—but today, a live-action version could combine the spirit of Indiana Jones with the ambition of Avatar. The result? A glorious spectacle with eccentric characters and stunning art design that a modern cast would have a blast bringing to life.
Treasure Planet (2002)
Joseph Gordon-Levitt voices Jim Hawkins, a troublemaker who journeys across the stars in search of planet-sized treasure. Along the way, he finds an unexpected father figure in the cyborg pirate John Silver (Brian Murray). This sci-fi twist on Robert Louis Stevenson's classic blends steampunk with futuristic tech—exactly the kind of odd creativity the live-action remakes need. With a lull in Star Wars films (until The Mandalorian and Grogu arrives), this could satisfy fans craving a new space fantasy adventure.
Brother Bear (2003)
Joaquin Phoenix voices a young man who learns life's lessons by living as a bear and caring for a lost cub. Set against the backdrop of Alaskan Native culture, Brother Bear explores humanity's relationship with nature in a way that feels ripe for a live-action retelling. While the concept of a character spending most of the movie as an animal might seem dated, clever storytelling can honor the original's themes of brotherhood and tradition.
The Black Cauldron (1985)
Loosely based on Lloyd Alexander's book series, this dark fantasy follows a farm boy on a quest to destroy a mystical cauldron, aided by a princess, a bard, and a cowardly creature. The Horned King (John Hurt) remains one of Disney's most terrifying villains. Parents complained it was too scary back in the day—which means it's perfect for a modern audience craving a Dungeons & Dragons-style adventure. Live-action visuals could make it both electrifying and downright terrifying.
The Emperor's New Groove (2000)
David Spade voices an egotistical emperor turned into a llama after a botched assassination attempt. With John Goodman, Patrick Warburton, and Eartha Kitt, this cult classic is pure comedy. Some worry live-action would lose its animated edge, but directors like Taika Waititi could bring the same irreverent humor to a real-world setting. Imagine the llama chaos in live-action—it's a recipe for laughs.
Other contenders include The Rescuers Down Under, Oliver & Company, and The Great Mouse Detective, each offering unique worlds and characters that could thrive in live-action. Disney has a vault full of overlooked gems—it's time to give them the spotlight they deserve.
