Disney’s Having an Identity Crisis…

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Wherein we discuss Disney's Live Action Remakes and whether they show signs of a studio lost at sea wanting to be part of our world...
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0:00 Intro
4:36 Why Remakes?
9:23 Who Is This For?
16:00 Conclusion

[@DanLayton]

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[@RobTFilms]

no

[@Lex_brooke]

It really bugs me when people argue that Ariel gave up anything for a man, she was longing to explore the surface world and Eric was just the catalyst that allowed that to happen. I was *very much* a little mermaid child growing up, and I never once felt that Ariel sacrificed anything wholly for a man. It was as much about trying to find herself and become her own person as it was a love story

[@johnramos8703]

Cool story trans

[@Northfan42]

Agreed, and it's heavily implied that Eric's first infatuation with Ariel was BECAUSE of her voice. It's the first thing he knows about her, so she isn't silencing herself to get a guy. She is not only tricked into a monkey's paw of a contract by Ursula because she's so desperate to be a part of the human world, whether or not Eric is in it. She also agrees to sacrifice the one thing about her that first attracted him, actually jeopardising the chances of forming a connection with him. Sure, he likes her looks and gets to know her by her demeanour and actions as well, but her initial fixation that led her to the contract had nothing to do with him.

[@charlielouise2428]

This is how I feel about Cinderella, she never wanted a man to rescue her, she just wanted to go to a dance

[@fntthesmth423]

It also occured to me that the last part of the movie implies the exact opposite of Ariel giving up everything for Eric? But maybe people saw it that way because of Poor Unfortunate Souls: "If I become human, I'll never be with my father or sisters again...." Which is true, but only by following Ursula's method. Ursula's setting the rules of the transformation after all. But since at the end of the movie Ariel's transformed _by King Triton,_ that implies she doesn't need to completely give up her old life. Instead of Ariel feeling forced to cut off all contact with her old life, her father puts aside his hate of humans to stay in touch with his child. The final shot of the movie even shows a wide shot of merfolk in full view of land dwellers, implying that mer and human society will be forever positively changed by this. Triton's arc in the movie means Ariel explicitly _doesn't_ give up everything to be with Eric, because her dad loves her

[@zaramel4694]

​@@johnramos8703 great work at being a jerk, dude

[@claremarie2652]

Especially with how unbelievably gorgeous and moving films like Coco and Moana have been, I don’t want remakes. I want something new that takes advantage of how creative and talented people in the industry are.

[@bobthebuilderday6leader]

+ Yes, so many stories to tell. No more live action remakes, please.

[@XxEvilTiggerxX]

I feel like somehow in trying to "empower" women, the ability the mess up and be wrong and have to learn lessons has somehow disappeared. Everyone is a girl boss superhero who is already perfect. The originals are wonderful for kids because no, the protagonist isn't always right, or the protagonist needs to improve and work hard in some way. Ariel is kind of a bratty teenager, with a crush on a guy, who doesn't realise her (admittedly overbearing) father is misguidedly trying to protect her. All this "she gave her voice up for a man". Well, yeah.... That's kind of the point. She did something really stupid and got tricked in a desperate attempt to get legs and go on land and has to figure out how to get around it and realise what she's done when she causes ursula to take over the kingdom. You know, nuance and growth xD

[@eliontheinternet3298]

I agree, I feel like empowerment should mean that women (and especially girls or young women, who have less life experience, like most of the princesses) can make their own choices, can be wrong, and are still strong and capable enough to figure it out and solve their problems.

[@LadyDragonbane]

Yes!! With them being perfect without even trying it's basically telling the audience "if you're not perfect you're worthless". How is that empowering? On the other hand, seeing a flawed character make it, it inspires the audience to believe they can too even with their flaws.

[@daffupanda2294]

So much this. I think we have forgotten about the hero's journey and how it works. How for people to become better people, as a whole, they first need to be allowed to fail and mess up, and that it's that struggle, and that hardship to get what they want at the end of the road that is so compelling to watch and make you cheer for them on their way there. I also feel like we have missed the mark on what makes a person (regardless of gender), strong as a character, and it's not physical strength and physical power.

[@pisto30]

Daniel claiming he hasn't seen Little Mermaid while ALSO giving off MAJOR Ursula vibes 💜

[@DanLayton]

Having now seen it, this is honestly such an affirmation 💚

[@Grymbaldknight]

This was a very balanced insight. I've got a couple of points to add: --- 1) Disney has diluted its core brand with the acquisition of its new "partners". This isn't inherently a problem, but Disney has let its identity get blurred by failing to distinguish between its brands. This has been most evident with Pixar, as Disney's core animations are now also CGI-based and deviating from traditional fairytales. The concepts of "Disney film" and "Pixar film" used to be very distinct, but now have become the same thing - both visually and narratively. This is damaging for both brands. --- 2) Disney seems to have some level of disdain for its own history, and perhaps traditional storytelling in general. It's true enough that a film from 80 years ago will probably be "problematic" by today's moral standards... but they also contain a lot of positive, archetypal messages. The issue is that Disney's push to remake all of their own films "for modern audiences" throw the baby out with the bathwater. In an effort to remove all "outdated" content from their own history, they're sucking the soul out of their storytelling. Traditional fairytales exist and remain popular for a reason. They express fundamental truths about human existence - romance, morality, courage, creativity, and so on. Traditional stories explore these archetypal aspects of the human spirit, and resonate with people because they're essentially "telling the truth" about the human experience. Disney has always tapped into this, combining it with animation and music to produce dazzling yet soulful experiences. Modern Disney has departed from this, in an effort to throw off the "shackles of old-fashioned social norms"... despite the fact that the Disney brand is built on this traditional idealism. This has left most of Disney's modern works feeling "soulless" - not just because they're cash-grab remakes, but because they've ditched the human element which made them so touching and inspiring in the first place. Disney is rooted in cliche... but cliche is well-known and well-used for very good reason. In attempting to avoid cliche and "subvert expectations", modern Disney is just uprooting itself, and failing to connect with audiences as it does so.

[@20YearSoul]

"Disney is rooted in cliche..." so true..just like sitcoms.. Now people are like "I hate hearing laugh tracks, and seeing common storylines, and it being so silly and corny.." .... That's... a sitcom. It was supposed to feel silly and use the tv tropes that exist in every decade. An episode where kids skip class and almost get caught , a talent show episode, an episode where someone is stuck in an elevator....the expectations are fine.

[@moammonster_Jess_]

Disney could absolutely take the photo realism they've mastered and write original scripts that really work with it. Instead, they are cashing in on nostalgia whilst stripping their own movies of everything that made them work originally. It comes across as all that Disney magic was just accidentally stumbled upon when they are so quick to discard everything that built them as movie giants in the first place

[@mikaylacraghead9660]

One thing I wish the remakes did with their movies is use makeup and theatre tricks in their movies more. Into The Woods did this and it was great! You have an actor in a cool wolf costume instead of a cgi wolf and the original movies being musicals really works with being a theatre-y movie. Matilda did a great job of this too, using movie tricks to show the theatre-y tricks. Imagine a guy in a plate costume singing be our best

[@connieworthington8269]

Knock knock? Is that thought provoking journalism on cinema??? Hell yes it is. This was so interesting!! Thank you for making this!

[@pheonixcola5996]

As someone who studied animation at university, they teach you to avoid realism because of the uncanny valley. Always being told to 'push' something a little further: a pose, or a motion When something moves/looks close to realism but not quite it's a little off putting for a viewer and it's also always way easier for human eyes to notice that rather than something more stylized Taking away that, takes away the magic!

[@audreyviolet4772]

Disney adult working in the animation industry here 🙋🏻‍♀️! I agree with everything in this take completely. TLM live action left me pleasantly surprised :’) But when I’m feeling shit for myself and need a good wallow, I always gravitate towards 1989’s The Little Mermaid, Piglet’s Big Movie, Hercules, or Enchanted. I think in addition to the nostalgia and (chefs kiss) music, it is that fantastical, imaginative world building, and lively and dynamic character animation that makes Disney so charming. And it’s all grounded in very real and loveable characters and writing, which makes animation a medium these stories excel in! I feel like they could easily make a live action remake that still captures the magic of the original films.. Instead of photorealism, they could model the animals/sidekicks based on their original character design and animate them with the same fun and playful mannerisms that they originally had. The Lion King didn’t HAVE to be these freaky looking animals that made Can You Feel The Love Tonight so so so uncomfortable to watch, they could have kept the character design and just rendered it beautifully in 3D. Like Flounder is SO cute, I would have loved to see him squash and stretch and adorably zip around like he could have. Jacob Tremblay’s voice acting really carried all the charm and character that the visuals were just lacking. The new Tom Hanks’s Pinocchio approached it in a similar way, so I feel like it could be done? With everything in the anim industry skewing to explore more creative applications of animation (see literally everything looking like Spiderverse now lmao), there is a market and hunger for something new and creative that Disney easily has the resources and tools to explore 👀

[@DanLayton]

It’s the Sonic the Hedgehog approach to animated characters, I suppose! Rather than making them seem “real”, adapt the real thing to look softer and more in keeping with the world. Its such a tricky line to walk!!

[@audreyviolet4772]

​@@DanLayton haha exactly! There's so much inherent humour and charm in those characters, it could be a fun thing to explore

[@Louisepentland]

I can't wait for our trip to WDW. Also, this was SO well researched and thought out and said. Love you xxx

[@isobelledger]

"Directed by Monica's ex boyfriend, Pete..." made me snort

[@bekah9344]

The animated films have always felt more story and art style forward which made them feel like an escape and place to rest Live action had felt message forward and detail forward making it feel more like the world I try to escape from. There's also probably an element of parasocial relationship you could tap into as the characters become more self aware. Makes me wonder if Disney is taking a cue from the increase in internet fame

[@rhyslgriffiths2748]

There is a very good Disney documentary called "Waking Sleeping Beauty" about the Disney renaissance. Also, great vid, excellent points. As someone who grew up a Disney child, these live action films just feel like Karaoke versions. No matter how good the singers are, it just isn't the original.

[@DanLayton]

I will seek it out!!

[@Julzableful]

I am a standard disney millenial but I also really appreciate the more culturally considerate changes they've made recently such as Moana. It makes a huge impact to have a disney character look like you (mainly for children but I look like Moana and I know it would have made a heck of a difference to have seen a character that looks like me in a mainstream movie. Probably wouldnt have straightened my hair as much..) I also love how different Frozen 2 was. They really tried something special and unexpected and it stole my heart with the magic and the message.

[@fionariley8004]

love this; another thing that also gets erased with the remakes are the queer allegories/themes that are embedded into the original animated films in an attempt to both appease the people screaming about "giving up her voice for a man" and to not alienate conservative markets. like there's a lot of queer analysis on the little mermaid, but even beauty and the beast has a lot of similar queer themes that didn't start with le fou getting a male love interest (and this is all without beginning to touch how the beast in human form literally looks exactly like howard ashman's partner).

[@DanLayton]

There’s definitely a sanitisation of the live action - I think it’s a result of trying to please everybody, while also being a film that is made less for creative satisfaction and more made by committee for blockbuster success.

[@42by10]

Out of the live-action Disney remakes, I have seen the Jungle Book, Beauty & the Beast, and Aladdin. And out of all the them the only thing I can remember is being confused about the song they added for Jasmine and how horribly out of place it felt. After that, I stopped watching them.

[@NeonCoding]

Knowing that this was all produced today feels chaotic as anything and I am HERE for it.

[@DanLayton]

The good news! I can turn an entire essay around in a day! The bad news! I can never make an excuse ever ever again!!

[@NeonCoding]

@@DanLayton Welcome to heightened expectation hell!

[@xtreamchance]

Disney Animation from Snow White to the Jungle Book were children's books of old, brought to life. The songs were an added bonus, not as integral to the film as people today think. The live action were, Mary Poppin's on down, were similar child stories and contained bits of animated magic within them. (Bedknobs N Broomsticks) But there were the more serious Disney live action, the epitome was Jules Verne's 20,,000 leagues, which only had 1 song, and a huge dramatic anti-hero in Captain Nemo, that were the best for my inner child, (followed closely by Swiss Family Robinson). Those were definitely "Disney Movies". The Renaissance of approaching them as Broadway musicals, and giving them that level of focus on musicianship with their composers, the best examples being Beauty and the Beast and Aladdin, became a new kind of "Disney Movie", renewed with "Frozen", it seemed they were back on track. The live action remakes seem to me as nothing more than masturbation for the cgi department. If they remake them, they should leave the musical nature of them out, and approach it as non-musical-like as an Alien film. I've only seen the remakes of the Jungle Book, and each were idiocy. No one gives better Bagheera than Sebastian Cabot. I really don't care for the live action remakes, the Mulan remake was soulless and shrill. And since I don't like them, I probably won't see this new live action REMAKE of the Little Mermaid. (Altho' to be honest I thought they were going to go with Bette as a seawitch, she's got a way better sense as a drag queen, c'mon, the original was based on Divine for god's sake!)

[@AfricanPrincess2006]

Speaking of who it's for: The live-action Lion King is not available on the kids version of Disney+ (in the UK at least) despite some nature documentaries being on there Does the photo-realism of the film mean it isn't suitable for kids to watch without their parents?

[@CristinaAllegra]

I did grow up with Disney movies, I think I watched them all, but Mulan, Beauty and the Beast, Aristocats and Jungle Book were my faves. I always have loved Disney, but I have somehow close to 0 interest in any live action, not even out of nostalgia. I think they can't give me the same as a rewatch of the cartoon version. I'm mildly curious but I barely watched any. However, the newer more modern Disney cartoon movies have conquered me deeply and I take as much from them as I took from the old ones as a child. Moana (Vaiana or however it's supposed to be called in the end), Tangled, Coco are films that I adored as an adult and I'm grateful for. I think that's the kind of Disney movie that I still hope for in 2023. The kind of movie that I hope continue to come out when I have my own kids.

[@AussieAriesGirl]

I haven’t seen new the little mermaid but I can’t help but agree with you, that these new remakes seem to have lost their way. The only remake I’ve seen that genuinely still captures the magic is ‘Cinderella’ I rewatch that one all the time for a variety of reasons but I still remember watching it in the cinema and even though I knew how the story was going to play out I was still enthralled and taken in by the ‘Disney’ of it all.

[@feanaro2712]

Great video! I think what jumped out the most in your discussion is the point about the original animated films having more nuance and subtlety. It does often feel with these live action adaptations that the people behind the scenes are picking the shortest and fastest ways to deliver the film's message of empowerment, rather than letting it come out naturally through character interactions. A good example is the lyric changes for The Little Mermaid; I can understand the changes to Kiss the Girl, encouraging consent feels like the right move, but the changes to Poor Unfortunate Souls felt more like they were done to check a box, rather than with any consideration for the context of the song (as you point out in your video, Ursula is manipulating Ariel; I'd say kids are smart enough to recognise when a character's words shouldn't be trusted).

[@sophiaw6035]

One of my favorite live-action adaptations is Ever After (1998). While not technically a Disney movie, it is a retelling of Cinderella that I thoroughly enjoy, mainly because the story isn’t tied down to so many specific beats. It doesn’t have the match the original film exactly; there are obvious parallels, to be sure, but it is allowed to breath in its own right. I think if these adaptations weren’t so exact, they could be realistic while still showing the story to new audiences. There is a certain level of magic and wonder that can only be captured by animation (case in point: Across the Spider-Verse). All in all, it seems like Disney wants to have its cake and eat it too, and it doesn’t seem to be working.

[@jenniferhiemstra5228]

Ever After is my favorite "Cinderella With-a-Twist" adaptation, PERIOD. All someone said was "What if Cinderella were historical fiction?" and everything falls into place marvelously.

[@alecfest5346]

to what extent would live action Nemo just be a nature documentary

[@nudgificator]

'Like a giant sea witch.... Divine!' I see what you did there. 😁

[@DanLayton]

😏😏😏

[@MrJakewray]

When I'm wrapped in a duvet with a stuffy nose, feeling sorry for myself, there is an 83% chance I'm going to reach for 2001's Lord of the Rings: the Fellowship of the Ring (dir. Peter Jackson)

[@DanLayton]

An exquisite choice

[@Roda-Fowa]

Really enjoyed this. If you’ve not seen the Lindsey Ellis video essays on Beauty and The Beast /TLM / Disney in general, they’re coming at this subject from a similar perspective and I’d really recommend them.

[@lucymiller1126]

I think now, a 'disney movie' is two films, expecting that anything new that's made will have a remake following it in the near future - I think they've inadvertently given their films a life-span in the bid to make them last forever.

[@mrosean3396]

In fairness Gladiators is like RuPaul and WWE had a child so…maybe that explains it?

[@DanLayton]

THAT'S WHAT I'M TALKING ABOUT. You've nailed it.

[@mrosean3396]

@@DanLayton And having watched further, the Meg energy is valid but also some hades thrown in (specifically “HE’S A GUY”)

[@Marie-kq1df]

Please don't come for me, but I actually really enjoyed both The little mermaid, Aladdin and Beauty and the beast live action remakes. Like, if I was going to watch one of the Little mermaids again tomorrow I would pick the live action for sure. I just find it a little refreshing and new and fun. Also, wanted to say that I really really enjoyed this video essay. Would definitely love more content in this style!

[@DanLayton]

That’s absolutely valid!! There’s definitely a charm in things that are new. I suppose it’s like when a song gets covered, and some will gravitate to the cover version over the original because it chimes with their taste in a different way!

[@videoeditorkaran]

been looking for a new film critic to follow. i have always loved you on wrestletalk. Saw ur channel being mentioned as "unsuccessful" there. Thought I would give it a go and oh boy I am glad I did. You have the exact humor I have and I am here to stay. I will surely go back and see ur older videos now! Congrats on 100k subs well in advance coz you surely will get there :)

[@DanLayton]

Thanks for coming through this forbidden door!!

[@MrFlibble13]

I love this take, as it pretty much encapsulates everything I was feeling while sat in the cinema watching The Little Mermaid 2023 (especially the ‘gosh this film is long’ part). However, there was a really jarring bit for me where they made Land-Ariel (Lariel if you will) come across really child-like and super out of touch with everything in the human world (I’m looking at you eating a possibly poisonous flower scene). And, like, I get it, she’s never been to the surface before and everything is all different and ooh, look, these people wear funny things on their heads that would totally float away in the water so she better start stealing and swapping them round. And, golly, these land beasts do go really fast along this really defined line, and only this defined line, isn’t that WILD? But… Lariel has existed in a society ALL HER LIFE, and nothing in the glimpses we saw of that (very murky and brown) world imply that inconveniencing workers through wacky racing stunts, assuming you can take their property (yes, I know Eric paid for the hat afterwards, that’s not the point!) and just shoving everything into your mouth for eatin’ purposes was in anyway a normal way to function under the sea. I genuinely felt like I was watching someone recover from a traumatic brain injury, which just made Eric’s attraction to Lariel kind of uncomfortable. I know it’s there a little in the animated version, but it is nowhere near as pronounced, (I know, I checked!) and it just felt wild to me that Disney was hammering home the “don’t silence yourself for a boy” message, and “look at all Ariel’s agency” when it didn’t actually feel like she knew what was going on and all I was worried about was whether Eric needed to taken aside and quietly talked through the Mental Capacity Act. But otherwise, yeah, this film was essentially fine and far too long.

[@TheGirlInGeekGlasses]

This was great! I would love to see more Disney videos, especially if you do get around to watching more of the animated classics (please do!)

[@millieharrison9925]

My problem with the live action films (of which I've seen very few of because I'm just not interested 😅) is, like what you discussed at the end, that they suck all the magic out of the films! We're getting pretty much the same stories but without the colour, the exaggeration, the art direction, the magic that's possible with animation that isn't possible in true life. Compare 'I just can't wait to be king' from the animated film to the remake... you've gone from this beautiful song and dance sequence full of fun and colour and movement and soul, to two expressionless lions running around some animals. The pursuit of making money and making the most photo realistic visuals is sacrificing the very thing that made these films magical in the first place :( But saying that, I really am glad to see that The Little Mermaid has been wildly popular because Halle Bailey deserves so much love for what she does. The racism I've seen people throw towards her is just insane- it's perfectly fine and realistic to have a film full of mermaids and talking fish, but having a black mermaid is where they draw the line

[@willbesprog]

Here’s the thing. To me, these live action remakes go in the same category of Disney film as their other live action films. When someone asks “what’s your favourite Disney film?”, my immediate response is “animated or live action?” because they’re different genres, therefore need different answers and approaches. And how anyone thinks that I’m going to choose a remake over the original Pirates films is beyond me 😂😅

[@Merina2222]

Great thoughtful video. Love your Disney analysis!

[@TokkiYamaguchi]

I'm 27, I'm not a Disney guy and this was thought provoking and made me come to a conclusion that if you're into it at all, these new options should probably be seen as added bonuses and greater variety of all your favourites. There are really cool elements to either direction and I believe there is no 'best' out there. It's just art.

[@CazAvery]

I tend to find as an adult when I think 'Disney movie' I think of the Disney-Pixar films - Up (ignore the sobbing), Inside Out, Soul, Coco, Zootopia, the Toy Story films etc. I think the fact they're still bright and animated really does help.

[@DanLayton]

Interesting!! Because I think of them primarily as “Pixar Films”, to the point where Disney movies like Frozen and Tangled are excellent, but exist in a weird in-between.

[@ryansg9]

it's funny you should mention "Monster in law" because i use it as an example for why the movie itself works (when it really probably shouldn't) and why modern Disney to me doesn't. Monster in Law has a "villain" who is camp, over the top and dramatic, and Jane Fonda knows what she's doing is wrong and bad, but she embraces it and relishes in trying to destroy Jennifer Lopez. Wanda Sykes is hilarious and likeable and a perfect counterbalance to the over the top, almost Mommy Dearest levels that Fonda brings. J-Lo is just an ordinary girl, charming, funny and loveable, she doesn't need a special talent or power or story element to show she's special, she just stand up to her mother in law because she loves the man. Whereas modern Disney hasn't had that level of camp over the top villain in a long time, they are usually misunderstood or doing bad things for the greater good. The female leads often have messages of "female empowerment" or "feminism" which in theory should be great, but it feels forced and almost cold/lifeless. I miss having a villain that i love to hate, or relish in their dastardly deeds with them. I miss having a female lead thats likeable and charming on their own and dont need anything extra (looking at Belle with the addition of her inventing washing machines and teaching kids to read). I fear that Disney is so focused on realism, they are missing out on the fantasy, the camp and the fun the the originals had.

[@melonnash]

YES - I’ve been trying to put this into words and you just did it! Realism and magic are what are at odds and strip out the ‘heart’ of the animated films

[@mrtof2]

Amazing video and great run down of the current Disney trends, good job ❤

[@berrybread7215]

sir I was literally just thinking of you yesterday wondering when we’d get some early summer Daniel J. commentary and here you are!

[@DanLayton]

My ears were burning, clearly!!

[@berrybread7215]

@@DanLayton and i love that for me AND for you

[@cazza158]

I don't think I've watched one of your videos before. Marvellous outro music

[@Tessothemorning]

Pot of tea and a chat from Dan. That's a nice start to my day. I'm not a Disney child or adult either - in fact my confession is that I find animation almost impossible to engage with emotionally (apart from The Simpsons, interestingly). But I don't find the live action engaging either actually - they seem cold in some ways to me. Maybe it's because I'm very aware of their source looming large. Regardless, I love your turn of phrase Dan - your confidence is growing again and you spin a beautiful, coherent story. Much more please!

[@zinniabridgman6405]

The live action cinderella movie is one of my all time favourites, mainly because I found the original kinda boring and unexplained? The live action gives a background into the Ella's life, her father and mother, which I love.

[@DanLayton]

I have to say, I thought the interesting parallel with the stepmother in terms of how each person responded to their grief. Could have gone further, I thought, but definitely interesting!

[@jotunfalls4026]

What bugs me is that there’s really no reason to remake the renaissance movies except to make money. These movies were already amazing (beauty and the beast, the little mermaid, the lion king) and instead of improving them they get worse. At least when they remade their older movies (Cinderella, sleeping beauty) they could improve them and expand on the stories (because, to me older Disney movies although nostalgic are flawed)

[@tracyfisher2088]

You're really good at this point making malarkey Daniel J Layton, I've subbed, liked and dinged my bell so I don't miss your next one. Underrated. X I said something even nicer on your musical theatre video. X

[@Book_Dragon2562]

Thank you! You literally just said everything I have been for years now and proving that I am not crazy or imagining things. Its become trendy to take Disney characters and events out of context and apply modern filters to them. This not only lacks integrity when it comes to the stories and the subsequent arguments, its actually an insult to those of us who grew up appreciating the original films. The princesses of Disney were never so weak and 2 dimensional as modern remakes try to make them seem. They don’t appeal to me as a Disney adult nor do they appeal to my nine year old daughter. Even she prefers the originals. So who exactly are these movies being made for?

[@alicearnoldmay]

i am so glad to hear someone else say they haven't seen so many disney classics (i was born in the late 90s)! loved the insight in this video. i'm also going to finally watch the original little mermaid properly and see the new one 😍

[@CristinaAllegra]

I'm very much with you there on the point of trying to make Disney princesses more feminist or something feeling forced and basically disrespectful towards the original princesses. All of them had much larger reasons and goals behind their actions than just a prince. And reducing them to just "wanting the man" is really unfair.

[@DanLayton]

I need to do a bit more reading, I think, but I definitely feel like there was an attempt to acknowledge the obvious power and gender imbalance that led to overcorrection in some places!

[@6p-ss9]

He Is Back!!!

[@JohnJID999]

wrestling fan who really enjoys your energy ur funny as hell and ur videos are great keep being u dude sometimes i don’t even watch raw but ur podcast on monday i’m tuning in every time if ur fixin to be on there

[@Alex-vj1tj]

I might be biased because I love animated styles, but these new live-action remakes really just don't offer anything new or more compelling than the originals to re-watch. The animated classics are something I can re-experience over time maybe because they don't have a blatant message they need to feel relevant, or the style lets my brain imagine a lot more depth and detail to them. Whereas the live action feels more like a detailed and real experience I'm watching, but not as much of a story that I can expand in my own mind and enjoy re-watching as a relaxing experience.

[@brandonbaggaley2317]

The animals should have taken the route of Aslan from Narnia. The way Lion King (2019) animated the characters damages the emotional impact of the movie.

[@amyw72]

I believe you've hit the nail on the head with this as I would never think to watch one of the live action remakes when searching Disney +. Whereas my nieces or the younger generation seem to have more of an attachment to the live action movies compared to the originals. No matter how much I've tried, the live action Aladdin is far better (in their eyes) compared to the OG because they see the characters as real people rather than fake animated cartoons. I already feel myself saying "oh well back in my day" to children when they immediately reach and ask for any live action disney film because I have such a strong sentimental attachment to the originals, which must be the same feeling they have to the live action remakes.

[@DanLayton]

That’s so interesting - I guess since they’ve watched it first, that’s what they want to see! Like some covers of songs, or musical cast albums, you’re gonna be drawn to what is familiar. Especially as a child!

[@AndersWatches]

Loved that quick “divine” ref

[@DessMelissa]

I think the funny thing about these remakes is that some of them are amazing and really capture the magic like Cinderella, Alice in Wonderland and Aladdin. Movies that I have and do watch in my real life more then just once or twice. Then the in between of say Pete’s Dragon and The Jungle Book where they are good but so vastly different but very good for what they are. Then there are the rest, they are not all bad but they are lacking the ‘Magic’ I even enjoy many of them but I will opt to just watch the animated over the live action every time.

[@grapemac]

Great video! Really enjoyed your thoughts, insights, mindfulness and comedy! Also that top is fire!

[@FruitWhisperer]

I watched the Chip and Dale movie the other day not having grown up watching the series and I really couldn't figure out who it was for. It's gritty and pokes fun at the characters so would fans of the show like it? Would kids care about these characters that they don't really get to know? I had no idea what was going on lol I will say that I do watch some of the live actions more than the originals. I love the new Cruella movie lol

[@Panzzer101]

11:15 I am so with Dan with this one. I feel the narrative is so forced nowadays. I watch Mulan and then live action. I felt they made Mulan weaker and forced embraced in the later. The old mulan message felt so natural and subtle. The messages in the old alladin is also subtle and in new it breaks the emergence. It honestly feels like an ad read in the middle of the movie. 😂

[@DragonPrincessAoife]

You're asking the wrong question: There's- What is a Disney Animated Movie, What is a Disney Live Action Movie, and What is a SUCCESSFUL Disney Live Action Remake. And the answer to the third one is 2023's The Little Mermaid. I genuinely loved it.

[@DanLayton]

That’s an interesting thought! I’d point to National Treasure and Pirates of the Caribbean as films that are live action, not remakes, and still feel like Disney Movies to me - I think that’s the distinction.

[@DragonPrincessAoife]

@@DanLayton that's why I included live action as well

[@20YearSoul]

Halle Bailey (and Melissa Mcarthy) really saved this Live adaptation because they were truly in character. Halle's voice is Magic, and the way she emotes in singing and in her expressions with having no dialogue. She is the Disney magic we miss. (We of Me= Disney adult, multiple trips to Disneyworld and Disney Club Membership).They could've given her unrealistically blue waters and a cartoonish 'cute' flounder. I felt the same for Lion King...I didn't want to see actual lions. With Donald Glover as Simba or Emma Watson in "Beauty and the Beast" - those films did not possess the Disney magic to carry a Disney film. Live Action "Mulan" took out the singing - although animated "Mulan" has some of Disney's best songs (ever). I'd confidently argue that Halle Bailey is the best Live Action Disney lead to date. Your video was so great. And I agree with everything. The Disney Vault thing was such a scam (that worked) to have commercials promising that it was the last time to own Aladdin or Mulan - I had to go with it. Live Action movies from Disney that weren't previously animated from DComs (Smart House, Cheetah Girls) on tv to "Hocus Pocus", "First Kid" , "Air Bud" and "The Parent Trap" in theaters - Disney clearly had a precedent on how their non-animated stuff could look and feel. The Disney Live action remakes should just feel like those but with bigger budgets (like when Lizzie Mcguire show and High School Musical" got movies in theaters. It should not be trying to compete with the less brighter fantasies of a "Lord of the Rings" or "Maze Runner". I think that's what we want... talking cute animals , and colorful sets and costume on a bigger than tv budget. They're selling us "what if Game of Thrones" was rated G. That's who it's 'for'...

[@fantasticoproduction]

a really interesting insight I really appreciate, ty for sharing!

[@Harri_James]

My friends worked on VFX for The Little Mermaid and i have nothing to add except they had multiple meetings about the physics of how Ariel's breasts should move underwater and Disney initially aporoved and design and then decided yo change it again

[@stackels97]

If Disney spent less money and time on these live action versions and did straight to streaming, I'd be able to respect them and enjoy them. But when theyre spending first class money on bargain basement quality writing and production, it cheapens the brand and the trust in their future products. At least the straight to video sequals and tv shows knew what they were and didnt try to shame the audience for not liking them.

[@xxxcrazyducksxxx]

You uploading this as I’m literally walking through Hollywood Studios lol

[@DanLayton]

I'M SO JEALOUS. I spent so much time while researching this staring at hollywood lots and theme parks.

[@xxxcrazyducksxxx]

@@DanLayton I work a Disney World! So if you ever want a free tour guide from someone who’s been a viewer of yours for 9 years, I’m ur gal! 😂❤️

[@jamie1602]

Disney remakes have what I call "white woman feminism". It doesn't matter that Halle is black and she did fantastic in the role. What it says is that women must be perfect at all times and cannot make mistakes. They cannot find themselves. They cannot have hobbies or interest. If I have suffered abuse, I am "wrong" for existing. The only people "right" are those like Maleficent who gets the Disneyification for not being invited to a christening which historically means that you tried to usurp the throne so you're not one of thirteen godparents for a child. It reminds me of the treatment given to real people like PL Travers. Travers was an antisemitic, ableist, child-hating harpy of a woman who terrorized all people she came across. Her son tried to forgive her for ruining his life and separating him from his twin (her words were, and she is quoted, "the stars are not in align" when it came to adopting both he and his twin) but he still drank himself to death. Her movie broke my heart and the verbal abuse tossed at the Sherman Bros recorded for all to hear at the end made me weep. These movies are for straight white women who were born into the upper middle class who are convinced they can "work to achieve it" but in reality, they have connections and they're more than pleased to step on the rest of us. These movies give the false hope for the rest of us because you simply can't work towards happily ever after anymore. It doesn't exist. Further more, we're expected to be perfect. Ariel isn't allowed to make mistakes with Ursula. Ursula "tricks" Ariel rather than gives her a contract and makes it perfectly clear what she's giving up. I was allowed to make mistakes in my life while also recognizing the people who preyed upon me because I was just a child. Disney wants to have their cake and eat it, which makes no sense. You wanna give each villain a sob story because "who runs the world, girls!" but when you get a villain who probably should be hurt and cautious while having a "no hard feelings that I used you" approach, Ursula isn't given that consideration. So is it because Ashman insisted she be queercoded? Is it because she's not as sexy as you made Cruella (who was NEVER supposed to be sexy)? I want to know. Because this is wildly uncomfortable. It continues to feel like us versus them. You're making movies for the upper class white women willing to throw their money at you. Thing is, they don't have that brand loyalty and they're the fastest karens to start a boycott because you hurt their feelings. They're the ones who complained about the color pink turning their sons gay and Disney princesses "corrupting" their daughters. It wasn't us. We pay more. We're more loyal than they are. So go back to your roots and cut it out. I'm already broken hearted that Rachel Zegler would dare call Snow White, a survivor of child abuse, "weak" and "outdated". I survived my child abuse. Am I outdated? Do I not belong on this planet? What do you want me to do, Disney? Is that your subtle sign I should end it all? Cause your messages to the children and adults who ACTUALLY need this are troubling. Let the trust fund babies entertain themselves and read Lean In for the fifteenth time.

[@connieworthington8269]

The point about realism was super interesting. It makes me think about Cats (2019). That whole things was a shambles and a fever dream. But everyone thought it was going to be so great. And the animation was very uncanny valley. And it’s why I’ve not been tempted to watch the new live action remakes. They look almost too perfect and it’s disturbing. But they don’t get the Cats treatment because it’s nostalgic? The plots were tight to begin with? The only remake I’ve ever like was Charlie & the Chocolate Factory. Which has just occurred to me that it is also directed by Tim Burton. Wow he’s been responsible for a lot of remakes. Perhaps he was also a big trend setter for the visual language of the remakes

[@TheNewCoverGirl]

I really like the take that these remakes are like the rereleases and direct to VHS/dvd sequels of years past, and I think it recontextualises the why in why they’re making them. The edits and the story changes and the modern self awareness comes both as a nod to what modern audiences expect what with Marvel’s box office domination (and inability to go five minutes without a quip somewhere) whilst also finding a way to make these movies relevant again enough that they’re not forgotten. Sure there’s Disney adults who obsess over disneys whole catalog but there needs to be something to bring non-Disney obsessed parents back to the novice to show their kids (and part with their money) so it sort of pulls that nostalgia bait of remember this? in a way even casual movie goers should remember. And then they throw in a new song in a bid for awards season to add something original to a remake and call it a day. People are way happier to go to the movies now than when some of these films were first out and even happier to pay significantly more for their tickets and merch than they would have first time around

[@leenanorms]

I enjoyed this!

[@charlottew9955]

I wouldn't say I'm a 'Disney adult' but I do love a Disney animation and The Little Mermaid is probs my favourite but I really have no intention to watch the live action, I've never seen any of the live action remakes and I probably never will because as you said, I've always got the original animation to go back to

[@claudiajade624]

As a Disney millennial with (currently too young) sprog I fully intend to raise her on the Original animated films. I currently do not have Disney plus 🙃 Modern Disney j think Frozen, was Encanto Disney or Pixar?

[@b-ridge1589]

I dont re-watch the actual Disney films for comfort (I have Gilmore Girls for that) nor have I ever been to Disneyland/world. But for me its the songs. They are what hold the magic and playing and singing along to them brings joy. For that reason I prefer the remakes that stay close to the orginials only so that I have an excuse to hear the songs again feel nostalgic for a time in my youth were it felt like, with a sprinkling of magic, anything could be possible.

[@sakunaruful]

I'd say that these remakes are being held back due to their assoication with the specific Disney animated film. Few of these films stand on their own outside the animated films. They either have to forego connection with the disney animated film and be their own films better yet, create new original films.

[@alexfido2935]

Dan, did you just undo another button for every cut seen in the edit?

[@shnoozezzz9752]

i have also not seen little mermaid to this day, and im a animation student so god knows how this has happened

[@AvaCaitlin1]

The live actions are amazing when they take the same characters and tell the story from a different perspective (Maleficent/Cruella) or to update movies from very early on in their catalogue which are outdated and have questionable things that need correcting. The renaissance period was successful and good as it was. What they needed to do was spruce up some of those adventure films that didn’t do as well first time (mostly because they didn’t get marketing) Disney’s live action adventure films have always done well, think pirates of the Caribbean and even national treasure. They really are shooting themselves in the foot by remaking or should I say merely just copying the same story shot for shot. Also if they want it to be real, they wouldn’t be musicals, people don’t just burst out in song, that immediately makes it less real so it just straddles this awkward space. That being said, Little Mermaid is one of the better adaptions but would have been even better to have had a film all about Ursula and her origins

[@nataliaivonica3488]

i am SO exhausted at disney live action remakes but also i cannot wait for the snow white movie written by greta gerwig

[@lebagal]

I am a classic and cliche “Disney Adult” I grew up during the Disney renaissance and had all the films on VHS (god showing my age!) but the modern remakes depress me slightly! I love that they are providing representation for people who have never been represented fully in film especially blockbusters and I think that’s why I am treasuring the new animated films, coco, Luca, Encanto, turning red, soul etc. And also the stories they are telling like in Onwards which is all about brotherly love etc. I do not think Hailey was a bad casting I think the little mermaid could have been told completely differently OR she could have a completely new story which isn’t trying to dance around “problems” in the original that was released 30+ years go! However, I understand Disney is a company and they need profit, so re-making something that is deeply nostalgic which will bring millennials and their families to the cinema is a clever marketing tool. I just wish they made it more than that! These films in the right hands could have more depth and substance, they could change the endings, they could fix narrative issues rather than add new ones (I’m looking at you beauty and the beast and the stupid magic book thing!). These remakes feel like the phrase: “I’ll stop beating this dead horse when it stops spitting out money.” I want more representation for wider audiences and new stories! Disney can definitely do both! Always love your videos and as for the question who are these movies for: personally not me, but if the representation of Hailey in the new film brings joy to one child well that’s a good thing at the least! I’m glad more amazing talent is being featured and want more and more!

[@LethargicScientist]

My personal theory is that these movies are essentially ashcan projects. Disney needs to prove they're doing something with these really old IP, and this is far cheaper than a sequel.

[@rorrt]

The one and only live action Disney film I watched in cinema was The Lion King.. The moment it started. I regretted my decision. The animated film I have watched at least 50 times.. I was left watching the new film thinking "oh Jesus... why didn't I pick any other film... I think Creed 2 is on in the other screen. Is it too late?" My other thought, is about Tim Burton doing Dumbo.. A famously short film. Which benefits from it's length.. Adding so much on to it. And my other other thought was about the scene in the original. Of Dumbo's mother rocking Dumbo to sleep through the bars of it's cage... Oh God! I'm almost crying thinking about it! I haven't watched Dumbo. But I know, if that scene is in the remake. It won't work...

[@Cakingit213]

Was the yelling of “Devine” on purpose as a reference to the drag queen who inspired Ursula?

[@tiegandonnison248]

my question is if these are to be retellings of stories for a new generation, why are there rumours of a tangled and moana live action remake? these stories already have the themes and progressive lead characters that Disney obviously want, and of course the animation is modern and wonderful - so why? what’s the point apart from a money grab???

[@merchantarthurn]

Also not a disney kid but i was jealous of kids who saw a lot of them (i liked beauty and the beast and my sister loved aristocats but those were the ones we had ahaha) but modern disney is like... it's reputation is very very poor to me. And I had enjoyed a lot of the older ones when going back to watch them - so it's not a "kids film" problem. I think it's how risk averse the company it - it has a very specific brand and Look and it's just boring. It feels like the artists behind the work (who you can tell are very talented) get smothered. Encanto for example - visually beautiful, very happy for everyone getting to see themselves, but as a story? And the songs? They all felt so stifled, almost rendering the explicit location... generic? (Compared to, say, Coco). Live action disney - marvel included - is also just. Stale as hell haha. I am glad that other studios are making impressive, experimental (animation AND story wise) films and they're getting attention and audience praise though - I'm seeing Spiderverse this Saturday and I'm so excited for the animation alone, let alone what the story might be.

[@stevenshipway3819]

Maybe I'm just cynical but I was under the impression that Disney are remaking the movies in order to extend the copyright of each for another 80 odd years, but naturally they have to market that differently to the public so they don't look like money hungry executives that don't care about making movies

[@DanLayton]

See, the interesting thing is, a lot of their classic tales don’t exist in copyright. Cinderella, Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast for instance are all fairytales that have been around for centuries, so copyright doesn’t come into it!

[@stevenshipway3819]

@@DanLayton I was not aware of that so I'll concede my point. Possibly the first time that's ever happened on the internet!

[@ella1856]

i know nothing about this film really cos i have a phobia of fish and very little interest in disney but here i am. and i appreciate the acknowledgment of the fact that fish are creepy

[@Linaker22]

Anyone else’s childhood comfort film Joseph and the amazing Technicolor dreamcoat??😅

[@Raya-xw5ud]

I tend to agree with you on all/most of this for most of these live action remakes. I haven't really liked, certainly not been impressed by any of them. I was hoping The Little Mermaid would be the exception since I really like mermaids (and wanted the racists to be proved wrong), and I think it is that for the most part, at least for me. With this one I actually feel that they improved upon the story itself, fleshing out the characters (esp Eric, who imo, really needed it) and above ground world. I appreciate the effort to make them kindred spirits, and it worked well imo. It actually feels like a romance to me now. I absolutely love the soundtrack with Halle Bailey, her vocals are stunning, and I think the new songs add to the story well (with the exception of Scuttlebutt...). The designs of Ariel and her sisters are gorgeous. I should caveat that I'm not a Disney adult lol and I wasn't that into The Little Mermaid before. It was fun & cute, but I'd only seen it twice. I rewatched the original the other day to compare, and of course she was interested in going on land before Eric, but I found it grating how everyone else in the story seemed to perceive Eric as her only motivation after she met him. That said, I absolutely agree that there is a certain charm of the animation and the animal shenanigans that is missing from the new one, and that's a bit disappointing. I wish they'd stop trying to make them so realistic. For me though, I will be looking for the live-action one when I rewatch (I have already gone to see it thrice, which was a bit of a surprise for me lol). I expect to go back to being unimpressed and bored by these live action remakes going forward. I'm generally against them anyway because animation does not need to be justified by live-action. It is great in its own right, and I'd like for hollywood, or whoever, to stop dismissing/devaluing it.

[@andrewmartin3671]

These films are for people who lie awake every night since the release of the animated original wondering if they'd have enjoyed it more if the fish were photorealistic.

[@maddiefilly13]

To me it kind of feels like Disney is just making remakes because they don't have any new ideas. What we're left with are movies that don't live up to our expectations and the magic loses a bit of its sparkle

[@OhThisOne]

I have stopped going to see the live action remakes now basically precisely for that reason, and like as for all live action remakes of classic animated movies or shows, part of the reason why they work in the first place is that the medium itself allows for the unbelievable so for me removing that makes no sense fine with the idea of remakes to introduce a new generation but I don’t know that live action carbon copy is the way to do it the live action remakes are brilliantly made but I don’t think they improve or do anything different from the originals so what is the point ?

[@lebagal]

I am a classic and cliche “Disney Adult” I grew up during the Disney renaissance and had all the films on VHS (god showing my age!) but the modern remakes depress me slightly! I love that they are providing representation for people who have never been represented fully in film especially blockbusters and I think that’s why I am treasuring the new animated films, coco, Luca, encanto, turning red, soul, raya and the last dragon etc. And also the stories they are telling like in Onwards which is all about brotherly love, coco is about how we should treasure each other and remember each other etc. I do not begrudge or think Hailey was a “bad casting” I think the little mermaid could have been told completely differently OR she could have a completely new story which isn’t trying to dance around “problems” in the original that was released 30+ years go! There are talented and amazing storytellers/writers out there with completely untapped potential! However I understand Disney is a company and they need profit, so re-making something that is deeply nostalgic which will bring millennials and their families to the cinema is a clever marketing tool. I just wish they made it more than that! These films in the right hands could have more depth and substance, they could change the endings, they could fix narrative issues rather than add new ones (I’m looking at you beauty and the beast and the stupid magic book thing!). These remakes feel like the phrase: “I’m gonna stop kicking this dead horse when it stops spitting out money.” I want more representation for wider audiences and new stories! Disney can definitely do both! Always love your videos and as for the question who are these movies for personally not me, but if the representation of Hailey in the new film brings joy to one child well that’s a good thing at the least! I’m glad more amazing talent is being featured and want more and more!

[@AoifeCRyan]

I’m one of the people the re-makes are for. 🙈🤭🙊 I love them. I love the originals. I also wish they would start creating new original movies with people of colour and their stories. But I can sort of separate my brain into different zones in order to appreciate the new re-makes for what they are and when I do that I usually love them. 🥹😅 I adore the live-action remake of Beauty and the Beast. And I also adore the original. I really love the new The Little Mermaid and it’s actually brought me back to the original and I’ve rediscovered it with adult eyes and I love it. 🥰

[@amelie.7817]

perfect timing as I went to the cinema to watch Little Mermaid yesterday

[@DanLayton]

I hope you enjoyed it!

[@amelie.7817]

@@DanLayton yes I did! I could really relate to not being a Disney child

[@quasimeowdo]

Is anyone else hearing an ominous repetitive boom (like Memoria!) in this video or is it just me?

[@DaddyStoat]

I liked most of the Disney live-action remakes to various degrees (although the less said about Dumbo the better), but, despite liking them, I would still have rather watched the originals. The Little Mermaid is the first one where I'd rather watch the new version. It's beautiful, the new songs are great, Halle Bailey is magnetic as Ariel and has an absolutely stunning voice, and Melissa McCartney as Ursula was a genius piece of casting. Having said that, they should be concentrating on their original stuff - Encanto was a masterpiece and - unpopular opinion - Frozen II was a far better film than the first one. (caveat: I have a 3-year-old daughter and hence get to see a lot of Disney films!)

[@el1751]

that's a lovely hair color

[@Spooky_Magooky]

Maybe I'm being overdramatic but I really dislike even the concept of a live action Disney remake, I think that at the gate these movies should've been scrapped. To me they come off as overtly corporate and soulless, it's attempts at modernization just end up diluting them, in favour of fancy CGI because that's what's in right now and getting in big names for the voice roles that often don't do the character justice. It's conforms these old films, their artistry and character to fit a modern blockbuster checklist, aka a product. Which is a shame, as there's a lot of untapped potential with updating and retelling these movies through a modern lens and telling new interesting stories, especially via animation.