As a dedicated cinephile, I must say that Disney’s live-action remakes have been nothing short of magical. They’ve taken cherished animated classics and elevated them into box office titans, skillfully balancing nostalgia with modern twists to captivate today’s viewers. The latest addition, ‘Lilo & Stitch’, has truly proven that these timeless stories continue to resonate deeply across generations.
Here, we delve into the top 10 most profitable Disney live-action adaptations, shedding light on their domestic and global box office revenues. Each movie offers a distinct charm, demonstrating why these retold stories continue to captivate us.
10. Mulan (2020)
Domestic: $69.9 million (limited release)
Worldwide: $466 million
‘Mulan’ deviated dramatically from its musical origins, replacing catchy tunes with intense action sequences. Yifei Liu played the fearless heroine in this film, under the direction of Niki Caro. Due to cinema closures caused by the pandemic, it had a restricted cinematic release. However, its emphasis on bravery and breathtaking visuals managed to attract viewers worldwide.
9. Cinderella (2015)
Domestic: $201.2 million
Worldwide: $543 million
As a movie reviewer, I found Kenneth Branagh’s ‘Cinderella’ to be an enchanting retelling of the classic fairy tale. With Lily James portraying our benevolent lead character with grace and charm, this modernized version captivated audiences. Cate Blanchett, as the wicked stepmother, added a touch of intrigue and sophistication to the film, making it even more enthralling. The stunning costumes and enduring romance made ‘Cinderella’ not only visually appealing but also emotionally engaging, leaving moviegoers with a lasting impression.
8. Maleficent (2014)
Domestic: $241.4 million
Worldwide: $758 million
In a new interpretation, ‘Maleficent’ transformed the classic fairy tale ‘Sleeping Beauty’ with Angelina Jolie delivering an impactful performance as the renowned antagonist Maleficent. Elle Fanning’s portrayal of Aurora brought warmth to this dark, visually stunning narrative. The fresh angle and daring style captivated audiences globally.
7. The Little Mermaid (2023)
Domestic: $298.2 million
Worldwide: $569 million
In the lively reimagining of ‘The Little Mermaid’ from 1989, Halle Bailey’s portrayal of Ariel captivated many hearts. Starring alongside Javier Bardem and Melissa McCarthy, this version offered fresh tunes and breathtaking underwater visuals. However, some viewers noted that the tempo seemed a bit slow at times.
6. The Jungle Book (2016)
Domestic: $364 million
Worldwide: $967 million
Jon Favreau’s ‘The Jungle Book’ was incredibly impressive with its almost flawless computer-generated imagery (CGI) animals, led by Neel Sethi’s portrayal of Mowgli. The voices, particularly Bill Murray as Baloo, added humor and emotion. Its stunning visuals and accurate storytelling made it a beloved choice for families everywhere.
5. Lilo & Stitch (2025)
Domestic: $200 million (and counting)
Worldwide: $611 million (and counting)
2025 saw the arrival of ‘Lilo & Stitch’, earning an impressive $183 million during Memorial Day weekend. Led by directors Dean Fleischer Camp, Maia Kealoha, and Chris Sanders (who voiced Stitch), this production effectively conveyed the film’s warm Hawaiian essence. Its emphasis on family values and nostalgic charm have propelled it to become a surprising box office success.
4. Alice in Wonderland (2010)
Domestic: $334.2 million
Worldwide: $1.03 billion
Tim Burton’s film adaptation of ‘Alice in Wonderland’, marked by its peculiar, enchanting darkness, sparked Disney’s trend of remakes. Mia Wasikowska played Alice, while Johnny Depp’s eccentric Mad Hatter captured the limelight. The movie’s striking visuals and 3D appeal fueled a tremendous box office success.
3. Aladdin (2019)
Domestic: $355.6 million
Worldwide: $1.05 billion
In a new twist by Guy Ritchie, ‘Aladdin’ sparkled with vivid backdrops and Will Smith’s innovative portrayal of the Genie. Mena Massoud and Naomi Scott shared an engaging dynamic as the main characters. The film’s energetic tunes and vibrant vibe resonated worldwide, despite not quite surpassing the classic version.
2. Beauty and the Beast (2017)
Domestic: $504 million
Worldwide: $1.26 billion
In a modern retelling, Emma Watson portrayed Belle while Dan Stevens took on the role of the Beast in the opulent adaptation of “Beauty and the Beast.” Remaining faithful to the original 1991 version, it showcased beloved tunes and an enchanting ballroom sequence. The romantic ambiance and stellar performances contributed significantly to its widespread popularity.
1. The Lion King (2019)
Domestic: $543.6 million
Worldwide: $1.66 billion
In a refreshing take, Jon Favreau’s photorealistic reboot of ‘The Lion King’ dominated the box office. The journey of Simba, brought to life by Donald Glover and Beyoncé, left audiences spellbound with its awe-inspiring computer-generated imagery. However, some viewers missed the emotional depth present in the original, but the stunning visuals made it Disney’s highest-grossing live-action adaptation to date.
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2025-06-02 12:44