Disney Leaves ‘Snow White’ Behind, Officially Resurrects Live-Action Remakes
Disney’s long-running strategy of revisiting its animated classics in live-action form has delivered major box office returns over the past decade. But with Snow White (2025), the studio encountered a far more turbulent path—one that extended well beyond the film itself. Positioned as a reinvention of one of Disney’s earliest princesses, the project instead became one of the most hotly debated remake campaigns in recent years.
The road to release was anything but smooth. Originally slated for 2024, Snow White was delayed before finally debuting in March 2025. By the time it arrived, the film had already become a focal point of online conversation, largely driven by comments from star Rachel Zegler about updating the character’s story. Her remarks about shifting away from traditional romance and fairy-tale conventions sparked strong reactions across audiences.
That divide carried over into the film’s reception. While some viewers appreciated the attempt to modernize the narrative, others felt it strayed too far from the 1937 animated original. Financially, the results reflected that split. Snow White brought in just over $205 million globally—falling short of profitability against a reported $270 million budget.
Off-screen developments further complicated the rollout. Reports suggested tension between Zegler and co-star Gal Gadot, who portrayed the Evil Queen, while both actors also became part of broader political discussions online. At the same time, Disney noticeably reduced its promotional push, prompting speculation about internal concerns surrounding the project.
When the film eventually arrived on Disney+, the narrative shifted slightly. What had once been anticipation turned into curiosity, and the remake gained traction on streaming, climbing viewership charts and finding a new audience in the process.
Still, the film’s awards season trajectory underscored its difficult journey. At the Razzie Awards, Snow White received wins for Worst Supporting Actor (awarded to the film’s dwarfs) and Worst Screen Combo, capping off a challenging chapter for Disney’s remake slate.
Lilo & Stitch (2025)
In stark contrast, Lilo & Stitch (2025) emerged as one of Disney’s biggest success stories of the year. Directed by Dean Fleischer Camp, the remake was initially developed as a Disney+ release before the studio opted for a theatrical debut—a decision that proved highly successful.
Opening over Memorial Day weekend, the film exceeded expectations with a strong debut and ultimately surpassed $1 billion worldwide. Its performance reinforced a key takeaway: audiences remain eager for nostalgic properties when the balance between honoring the original and refreshing the material is carefully handled.
Disney has repeatedly emphasized the strength of the Stitch brand, noting that it has, at times, rivaled even Mickey Mouse in profitability. Following the film’s success, a sequel has already been greenlit. Lilo & Stitch 2 is set for release in May 2028 under the leadership of new CEO Josh D’Amaro.
Moana (2026)
Attention now turns to Moana, which is shaping up to be Disney’s next major remake. The original animated film remains widely popular, setting high expectations for its live-action counterpart. However, Snow White demonstrated that even well-known titles are not guaranteed success.
Early reactions to the recently released trailer suggest another divided response, particularly regarding the film’s visual style. Unlike Snow White, which introduced notable changes to its story and tone, Moana appears to closely mirror its 2016 predecessor.
Dwayne Johnson will reprise his role as Maui, while Catherine Laga’aia steps in as Moana, replacing Auliʻi Cravalho. Cravalho remains involved as an executive producer. Johnson recently spoke about the film’s cultural responsibility following its 2023 announcement.
“We were doing our best to make sure that we were always representing our Polynesian culture in every department,” Johnson told Entertainment Weekly. “Some department heads, story, development, just everything.”
Director Thomas Kail also reflected on the challenges of adapting the animated feature into live action.
“How do you honor this? How do you say ‘we love it too’ and make it something that can be a companion and not try to be the same thing, but also trust what works?” the Hamilton director told the outlet. “The opportunity to have flesh and blood and have human beings tell the story and sing these songs and be in this world, there’s something so fundamentally different about that experience of watching and feeling that.”
Tangled (TBD)
Another project generating attention is the live-action Tangled. Though it does not yet have a confirmed release date, the film is already drawing interest following casting announcements. Teagan Croft will take on the role of Rapunzel, with Milo Manheim set to play Flynn Rider. Kathryn Hahn has joined the cast as Mother Gothel.
With its established fanbase and contemporary fairy-tale appeal, Tangled could be well-positioned for success. However, in the wake of Snow White’s reception, Disney appears likely to approach the adaptation with a more measured strategy, ensuring it aligns closely with audience expectations.
Taken together, these projects reflect a shifting dynamic for Disney’s remake strategy under Josh D’Amaro. The era of near-guaranteed billion-dollar returns appears to be evolving into something less predictable, where audience sentiment and online conversation carry increasing influence.
What live-action remake are you most looking forward to? Let us know in the comments down below!
