Over the last few years, many live action Disney movies were created, including a new rendition of ‘Aladdin’ that recently came out in 2019. One main question amongst major Disney fans remains: Are these new live action spectacles just fillers because Hollywood has run out of ideas? One thought is that these movies want to bring back a long lost childhood nostalgia cast aside in the process of growing up. The main argument from Hollywood at the moment is that nostalgia needs to be brought back, however, it just needs a new light to shine under. Many children in the United States and all over the world enjoyed and still continue to enjoy these movies. The childish charm and joy that Disney brings is exuded in old and young audiences. One of the main reasons that Disney appeals to all is because of people’s longing for a simpler time. There is an abundance of chaos in the world, and people need to find a way to take a break from the stress of society. Disney provides a sense of happiness that other companies just cannot seem to nail down. While watching these movies, one can imagine their own “happily ever after.” They provide a sense of hope for the watcher. Some of the best remakes have simple little twists on the stories: one of those being ‘Cinderella.’ In the live action ‘Cinderella,’ actress Lily James glides down the staircase in a magnificent blue dress toward her prince, played by Richard Madden. The fairy godmother, played by Helena Bonham Carter, provides even more nostalgia throughout the movie with her seamless magic spells working wonders for her godchild. Cinderella’s mother becomes a focal point in the movie when she says, “Have courage and be kind” on her deathbed. Despite the fact that the animated movie has the epic transformation of the pumpkins into Cinderella’s carriage, nothing can beat this well learned life lesson that is so prevalent throughout the film.

Besides this, Disney does an effortless job at challenging stereotypes and outdated viewpoints. There is so much political and social turmoil going on in the world today and many believe Disney can act as a medicine to cure it. Another thing to note about these 26 Disney films is that over time, the stereotypes have become increasingly more positive.” Another reason why Hollywood is making these movies is because they want to change the way people view stereotypical characters in Disney movies. For example, in the remake of the classic ‘Beauty and the Beast’ a gay couple was featured in the ballroom scene. In the ‘Aladdin’ remake there is a song featured called “Speechless” sung by none other than Jasmine herself, Naomi Scott. This song emphasizes how standing up for yourself is important. In the older animated version from the 1990’s, Jasmine is pictured as helpless under Jafar’s evil grasp. Disney provides these messages because they wanted to highlight important societal changes occurring in the 21st century. More live action Disney movies are expected to be made in the near future, so keep your eyes peeled! The Disney tradition will be preserved for generations to come because of all the new live action films being created. The second live action ‘Maleficent’ has its release date on October 18th. The live action ‘Lady and the Tramp’ comes about a month later. As the wise Walt Disney once said, “If you can dream it, you can do it!”