Every Disney Live Action Remake Ranked by Box Office Results

For decades, Disney has found great success (and some controversy) remaking and creating live-action adaptations of their fan-favorite classics. While the popularity of these reimaginings hit new heights in recent years, the first official film to receive the live-action treatment was Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book, which premiered 30 years ago in 1994.

The Stephen Sommers adaptation was a critical and commercial success and helped launch a new trend where the legendary studio would bring more animated hits to life. Over the course of three decades, 22 Disney films have been remade into live-action flicks, with many of the projects dominating the box office.

Robert Zemeckis’ Pinocchio, Peter Pan & Wendy, Lady and the Tramp, and The Jungle Book: Mowgli’s Story are also included in their extensive repertoire of remakes, yet since they were released via streaming platforms and VHS, their profits are unknown; they are therefore not on this list. Here is every Disney live-action remake ranked by box office results.

18 Mulan (2020) – $69.9M

The live-action adaptation of the beloved ’90s hit Mulan faced a massive uphill battle from the very beginning, as the film was not only being released during the height of the pandemic but it also chose to eliminate the musical aspect featured in the original. Liu Yifei took on the eponymous role of the legendary warrior, and avid fans were upset when characters like the wise-cracking Mushu and love interest Li Shang were excluded from the remake; the 2020 version was instead intended to be more faithful to the Chinese folklore tale.

Difficulties Overcoming Hefty Budget

With a bloated budget of $200 million, Mulan was the most expensive film ever directed by a woman (Niki Caro), and the decision to cancel its domestic theatrical release and instead debut on Disney+ to rent ultimately hindered its performance. The adaptation grossed just $69.9 million and garnered a mixed bag response, with praise going to its action sequences and stunning costumes but earning disdain by Asian critics for its historical and cultural inaccuracies and overall representation of Chinese people. Stream on Disney+.

17 Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book (1994) – $70M

Some may forget that long before Jon Favreau introduced audiences to his live-action adaptation of the Disney classic, director Stephen Sommers tackled his own version with 1994’s Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book. Touting a dazzling ensemble cast led by Jason Scott Lee, Cary Elwes, John Cleese, and Lena Headey, the film chronicles the life of wild man Mowgli as he is raised in a remote jungle in India by animals and ends up falling in love with the feisty Katherine “Kitty” Brydon.

Sommers’ Spellbinding Remake

Sommers had been a huge fan of the original ’60s animated flick and he set out to create a sweeping romantic adventure featuring Mowgli and Kitty, heavily diverting from the storyline in the Kipling classic. Lee was Sommers’ only choice to portray Mowgli, as he wanted to focus on a more adult love story and the actor was well-known after portraying Bruce Lee in a biopic. The Jungle Book took in $70 million during its theatrical run on a $30 million budget, and found further success through home release. Rent/Buy on Prime Video.

16 102 Dalmatians (2000) – $183.6M

The sequel to the 1996 blockbuster, 102 Dalmatians once again features the sensational Glenn Close as the scheming and villainous Cruella de Vil, as she unsurprisingly returns to her wicked ways once again and sets out to create the greatest fur coat of all time by stealing innocent puppies. Only Close and Tim McInnerny (Curella’s anxious butler) returned after starring in the original remake, and they were joined by stars like Ioan Gruffudd, Gérard Depardieu, and Alice Evans.

Box Office Showdown

Neither as commercially nor critically successful as its predecessor, 102 Dalmatians faced stiff competition at the box office, opening alongside Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas and M. Night Shyamalan’s Unbreakable, where it ultimately placed third on its debut weekend. Critical reaction wasn’t great, with many feeling the sequel failed to bring anything new to the viewing experience and series, and it ended its run with earnings of $183.6 million. Stream on Disney+.

15 Christopher Robin (2018) – $197.7M

Golden Globe winner Ewan McGregor brilliantly starred as the adult-version of the titular character in the engrossing fantasy Christopher Robin, telling the poignant story of the now-grown up Robin as the disenchanted man struggles with his loss of wonder and imagination, only to be finally reunited with his lovable childhood pals from the Hundred Acre Wood. Together, Christopher and Pooh embark on a quest to find their other friends as the world-weary character rediscovers what matters most in life.

A Nostalgic Ride

Lauded for its heartfelt message, stunning visual effects, and fantastic performances, Christopher Robin took moviegoers on a moving journey that was both nostalgic and endearing, with audiences awarding the fantasy flick an admirable A CinemaScore. Christopher Robin received numerous accolades including an Oscar and Annie Award nomination, and became the highest-grossing movie in Disney’s Winnie the Pooh franchise, bowing out at the box office at $197.7 million. Stream on Disney+.

14 The Sorcerer’s Apprentice (2010) – $215.3M

An often overlooked entry in Disney’s stellar live-action adaptations, 2010’s The Sorcerer’s Apprentice stars acting extraordinaire Nicolas Cage as Balthazar Blake, a millenia-old spellcaster who secretly helps protect the modern world from evil forces, namely his arch enemy and fellow sorcerer Maxim Horvath (Alfred Molina). Balthazar searches for someone worthy of inheriting Merlin’s wondrous powers, making college student Dave Stutler (Jay Baruchel) his hesitant protégé.

Too Much Competition

Incorporating elements of both Fantasia and Fantasia 2000, the fantasy flick had a hard time recuperating its giant $150 million budget and faced even more of a hurdle when it was released alongside the blockbusters Inception and Despicable Me. Critics also gave The Sorcerer’s Apprentice lukewarm reviews, appreciating its charismatic cast and visuals but disliking its lackluster screenplay and excitement. It ultimately was a box office failure and was listed by Parade as one of the “Worst Box Office Disasters of 2010 (So Far).” Stream on Disney+.

13 Cruella (2021) – $233.5M

Cruella

Release Date

May 28, 2021

Runtime

2hr 14min

Read Our Review

Oscar-winner Emma Stone delivered a delightfully devious performance as the fur-loving fashionista in the crime comedy Cruella, which serves as an origin story for the iconic Disney villain and chronicles her early years during the punk rock movement in 1970s London, as she makes it her mission to become a revered fashion designer. Stone is joined in the live-adaptation by Emma Thompson and Mark Strong, as her character clashes with the narcissistic haute couture designer Baroness von Hellman.

Related: Disney Villains Who Deserve an Origin Story Movie

Stone’s Dazzling Portrayal

Cruella marked one of the first prominent red carpet premieres since the start of the pandemic, and both Stone and Thompson’s performances attracted rave reviews from critics and audiences alike; Stone earned a Golden Globe nomination for her villainous outing. Despite such a positive response, Cruella struggled to break even during its run, earning just over $233 million at the box office against a vast budget of $100–200 million. Nonetheless, a sequel is currently in the works with Stone set to reprise her epic role. Stream on Disney+.

12 Alice Through the Looking Glass (2016) – $299.8M

Sometimes even a star-studded cast and charismatic performances aren’t enough to save a film, as proven by the box office blunder Alice Through the Looking Glass. The sequel to the 2010 smash hit, the follow-up once again focuses on Alice Kinsleigh (Mia Wasikowska) as she finds herself back in Wonderland after being transported to the enchanted world after discovering a mysterious looking glass. Alice goes on a time-traveling adventure in an effort to save her friend the Mad Hatter (Johnny Depp), before it’s too late.

A Lackluster Follow-Up

Released six years after the original live-adaptation, the film was helmed by James Bobin, who took over directing duties from Tim Burton. Many felt the premise of the sequel was extremely underwhelming and that it couldn’t match the magic and heart of its predecessor; Alice Through the Looking Glass ended up losing Disney roughly $70 million and received three Razzie nominations. It couldn’t overcome its $170 million and ended its theatrical run with $299.8 million. Stream on Disney+.

11 101 Dalmatians (1996) – $320.7M

Glenn Close rightfully earned a Golden Globe nomination for her first outing as the diabolical Cruella de Vil in the ’90s adventure comedy 101 Dalmatians, a live-action remake of the animated classic that centers on the blossoming romance between video game designer Roger Dearly (Jeff Daniels) and fashion designer Anita Campbell-Green (Joely Richardson), as their dalmatians Pongo and Perdita also fall in love. The fur-obsessed Cruella kidnaps the pooches and their dozens of babies, wanting to make a luxurious fur coat.

Close Dominates the Big Screen

The screenplay for 101 Dalmatians was written by beloved filmmaker John Hughes, and it was his idea to pursue the talented Close for the role of the conniving Cruella. A massive success at the box office and with moviegoers, the comedy raked in over $320 million and its positive performance led to a video game, 2000 sequel, and the 2021 reboot; 101 Dalmatians also went on to become the sixth-highest grossing release of the year. Stream on Disney+.

10 Dumbo (2019) – $353.3M

Dumbo

Release Date

March 27, 2019

Runtime

130

Disney once again enlisted the genius mind of Tim Burton to help bring the tale of the lovable, big-eared elephant to life in Dumbo, which features a dazzling ensemble cast including Colin Farrell, Michael Keaton, and Danny DeVito and follows the ambitious-yet-struggling ringmaster Maximilian “Max” Medici as he hires a World War I veteran and his children to take care of a wondrous, magical elephant massive ears. When a greedy entrepreneur wants to exploit the sweet Dumbo, his friends join forces to free the elephant and his mother.

A Gorgeous Visual Spectacle

DeVito raved about working with Burton again and commended the director’s captivating vision for the adaptation, having said the filmmaker is “always spirited, always an artist, always thinking about the craft, always painting with his mind.” Dumbo received a mixed bag response upon its release, with appreciation going towards its stunning visuals and performances but earning criticism for its screenplay and hollow emotional depth; it eventually brought in $353.3 million worldwide. Stream on Disney+.

9 Maleficent: Mistress of Evil (2019) – $492.2M

Angelina Jolie embraced her dark side yet again when she reprised her role as the powerful fairy in Maleficent: Mistress of Evil, the second entry in the film series that depicts the valiant efforts the mighty Dark Fae goes to in order to protect her fellow race from destruction after an evil queen goes on a crusade to rid the land of the magical creatures. The sequel also delves into the inner struggles Maleficent experiences after being painted as a villain, despite her endearing bond with Aurora (Elle Fanning).

Fan-Favorite Sequel

Though not as financially successful as its predecessor, Maleficent: Mistress of Evil was a knockout with audiences and made over $492 million worldwide, and while that number seems impressive the picture needed to earn around $500 million to turn a profit after the additional distribution and marketing costs. A third installment in the series is in development at Disney, with Angelina Jolie confirming in December 2023 that she would be returning as the eponymous character. Stream on Disney+.

8 Cinderella (2015) – $542.3M

Cinderella

Release Date

March 12, 2015

Runtime

112

Bringing the acclaimed animated staple to life on the big screen is no easy feat, yet the great Kenneth Branagh was more than up to the challenge when he directed the romantic fantasy live-action version of Cinderella. Lily James donned the iconic blue dress and served up a winning performance as the kind-hearted orphan Ella, who is left at the mercy of her wicked stepmother Lady Tremain (Cate Blanchett) and step-sisters after her father tragically passed away. Ella’s luck changes when she meets a handsome stranger and is visited by her fairy godmother.

Branagh’s Breathtaking Adaptation

Celebrated for its sumptuous cinematography, electrifying romance, and dazzling magic and wonder, Cinderella received praise from both audiences and critics, dominating the box office and earning a whopping $87.55 million its opening weekend and over $540 million worldwide. The uplifting adaptation also earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Costume Design and has landed on numerous lists as one of the best live-action remakes by the legendary studio. Stream on Disney+.

7 The Little Mermaid (2023) – $569.6M

Read Our Review

Passionate fans of the ’80s masterpiece were thrilled when Disney announced plans to give The Little Mermaid the live-action treatment, with singer and actress Halle Bailey showcasing her phenomenal talents in the exciting adaptation. Bailey is joined by stars like Melissa McCarthy, Javier Bardem, and Awkwafina, and despite an initial ridiculous casting outrage, the young performer silenced the naysayers and served up an unforgettable performance as the curious and kind Ariel.

Related: Disney Renaissance Films, Ranked by Rotten Tomatoes Score

Bailey’s Star-Making Portrayal

With a colorful and vibrant soundtrack, captivating musical numbers, and dynamic performances, The Little Mermaid was projected to gross between $120–125 million over Memorial Day weekend, finishing with $118.8 million after 4 days; it was the fifth-highest opening in Memorial Day history. According to a financial insider, the film’s box office was described as “not a huge disappointment, but a disappointment, nonetheless,” with many believing The Little Mermaid would have performed more strongly in foreign markets. Stream on Disney+.

6 Maleficent (2014) – $759.8M

Maleficent

Release Date

May 28, 2014

Director

Robert Stromberg

Runtime

97

The unforgettable Sleeping Beauty villain received her very own origin story in the fantasy film Maleficent, with Oscar-winner Angelina Jolie portraying the misunderstood Dark Fae as she becomes embroiled in a fierce battle with a powerful king that results in her cursing the ruler’s newborn daughter. When Maleficent realizes that the child may be the one who can finally restore peace within the kingdom, she does everything she can to re-write her own story and the fate of the land.

Jolie’s Blockbuster Hit

Unsurprisingly, Maleficent was a slam dunk with moviegoers as Disney fans flocked to theaters to witness the notorious villain’s backstory unfold; Jolie was the only choice to portray the character and had she not agreed to star, the film wouldn’t have been made. Maleficent earned a stellar $175.5 million its opening weekend, becoming the biggest debut in the actress’ career and the fourth highest-grossing release of the year, bowing out with $759.8 million. Rent/Buy on Prime Video.

5 The Jungle Book (2016) – $967.7M

Jon Favreau helped bring the Rudyard Kipling collection of stories to life with his own unique flair when he directed 2016’s The Jungle Book, a gorgeous cinematic triumph that features dazzling visuals and a deeply moving premise. In the vibrant picture, human orphan boy Mowgli (Neel Sethi) teams up with his beloved animal friends in order to discover who he truly is after being raised by wolves. All the while, Mowgli is being stalked by the vicious tiger Shere Khan, who wants to see the child gone.

Sensational Cinematography

A spellbinding live-adaptation like The Jungle Book deserved an electrifying ensemble cast, and both Favreau and Disney got their wish when they nabbed A-list stars like Bill Murray, Idris Elba, Scarlett Johansson, and Ben Kingsley to provide their voices in the film. Lauded for its impressive CGI and spirited performances, The Jungle Book won the Academy Award for Best Visual Effects and grossed nearly $1 billion worldwide at the box office; a sequel is currently in development. Stream on Disney+.

4 Alice in Wonderland (2010) – $1.025B

Disney’s first live-action adaptation of the 2010s was Tim Burton’s big and bold re-imagining of the Lewis Carroll classic Alice in Wonderland, a big-screen extravaganza that features some of Hollywood’s brightest stars like Johnny Depp, Anne Hathaway, and Helena Bonham Carter and follows the precocious teenager Alice (Mia Wasikowska) as she stumbles into a rabbit hole and emerges in the weird and whimsical Wonderland, meeting eccentric new friends along the way.

A Dream Team Reunite

Burton wanted to cast a relative unknown to star as the curious lead heroine, ultimately choosing Wasikowska because of “a simple kind of power to her that he really liked. Not flamboyant, not very showy, but just somebody that’s got a lot of internal life to her.” He also teamed up again with frequent collaborators Depp and Bonham Carter, with the dynamic actors brilliantly bringing the Mad Hatter and Red Queen to life. Alice in Wonderland is the highest-grossing film directed by Burton, and the film took home two Academy Awards. Stream on Disney+.

3 Aladdin (2019) – $1.054B

Living up to the legacy of the late and great Robin Williams is one tall order, yet Will Smith served up a charismatic performance as the Genie when he starred alongside Mena Massoud and Naomi Scott in Guy Ritchie’s Aladdin. The adaptation once again tells the tale of the compassionate street urchin who discovers a magic lamp that houses a powerful genie, and he uses his three wishes to try and woo the beautiful princess Jasmine and achieve fame and fortune.

A Billion Dollar Endeavor

After the first three days of its release, Aladdin brought in $214.7 million globally and completed its theatrical run by earning over $1 billion, becoming Smith’s most profitable film of his career. While the response from critics was mixed, audiences were impressed by the dazzling musical numbers and performances, and awarded the lively flick an A CinemaScore. The adaptation garnered multiple accolades and was named The Family Movie of 2019 at the People’s Choice Awards. Stream on Disney+.

Aladdin (2019)

Release Date

May 24, 2019

Runtime

128 min

2 Beauty and the Beast (2017) – $1.266B

Most Disney lovers were ecstatic when news hit that the ’90s fan-favorite Beauty and the Beast was the next animated flick to receive the live-action treatment, and they were even more elated when it was revealed that Harry Potter alum Emma Watson would be starring as the bright and loving Belle. Watson is joined by an elite ensemble cast including Dan Stevens, Ewan McGregor, and Ian McKellen, with Disney legend Alan Menken also returning to compose the soundtrack.

Making Musical History

Voice actress and original film star Paige O’Hara gave the casting decision her seal of approval, expressing at the time, “I think that if I were producing that movie, Emma Watson would’ve been my first choice for Belle. I was just really happy they went with Emma. She’s got the intelligence, she’s got the humor. I think she’s going to be really, really special.” Beauty and the Beast had a production budget of $254 million and became the most expensive musical in cinema history, and in just ten days the adaptation became the highest-grossing live-action musical of all time (a record later broke by The Lion King). Stream on Disney+.

1 The Lion King (2019) – $1.663B

Jon Favreau once again made some serious movie magic when he directed the highly-anticipated remake of the trailblazing 1994 original, with the musical drama The Lion King enchanting the masses. The filmmaker was heavily inspired by the Broadway show and used many of its aspects to help shape the adaptation’s overall plot, and he also utilized the same technology from The Jungle Book to create the captivating animation and immersive wild world Simba and his friends live in.

Box Office Domination

With a whopping budget of $250-$260 million, The Lion King is one of the most expensive films ever made and Disney’s priciest live-action remake, and though it failed to fully impress critics it was a major box office triumph and earned a record-shattering $1.663 billion. The adaptation was nominated for an Academy Award, four Grammys, and two Golden Globes, and because of its massive theatrical run, a sequel was swiftly announced in 2020. Mufasa: The Lion King is set to premiere on December 20, 2024 with Barry Jenkins taking over directing duties from Favreau. Stream on Disney+.

And with many of these films featuring updated renditions of classic songs, take a look at the most popular Disney songs based on the Billboard Charts in the video below: