Disney’s Live-Action Movies Release Schedule For 2019 And Beyond

Disney is on a role reinventing its classic animated films for the big screen. Following the success of 2016’s “The Jungle Book” and 2017’s “Beauty and the Beast,” the studio plans to continue releasing live-action versions of its biggest titles in the coming years. Here’s what to expect in 2019 and beyond.

“Dumbo”- March 29

Based off the 1941 animated film of the same name, Disney’s “Dumbo” retells the story through director Tom Burton’s lens. The movie stars Danny DeVito as a circus owner who enlists the help of a star, played by Colin Farrell, and his children to care for a newborn elephant. Of course, they soon learn the elephant is different from the rest because he can fly. Watch the trailer above.

“Aladdin”- May 24

Following the success of the 1992 animated film, which spawned two sequels, and its current Broadway run, Disney is bringing “Aladdin” back to the big screen. The movie follows Aladdin (Mena Massoud), a “charming street rat,” who gets the attention of Princess Jasmine (Naomi Scott) thanks to help from his friend, the Genie, played by Will Smith.

“The Lion King”- July 19

Disney is bringing new life to its classic 1994 animated feature “The Lion King.” The live-action version tells the same tale of a lion named Simba and his rise to becoming king of the pride lands. A-list actors who lent their voice to the characters include Donald Glover, Beyonce, James Earl Jones, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and many more.

“Maleficent: Mistress of Evil”- Oct. 18

Over five years after the release of “Maleficent” actors Angelina Jolie and Elle Fanning are bringing their “Sleeping Beauty”- inspired characters Maleficent and Aurora, respectively, back to the big screen. The sequel to the 2014 film will explore the two leads’ complicated relationship.

“Mulan”- March 27, 2020

Disney’s live-action remake won’t directly copy the storyline of the studio’s 1998 film of the same name. In June, Insider reported the adaptation would host several new characters and change up Mulan's (Yifei Liu) love interest. The publication also reported the film would have a villain different from the original.

“Lady And The Tramp”- TBD

Disney lovers shouldn’t expect to see the live-action version of “Lady and the Tramp” in theaters. Disney CEO Bob Iger has confirmed the film was never intended to get a theatrical release, according to Insider. Instead, fans can plan to watch is on Disney’s upcoming streaming service, Disney+. According to Collider, real dogs were used in the movie.

“Cruella”- TBD

Disney hasn’t announced a clear plan for its “101 Dalmatians” spinoff, but some details have been shared. For starters, Oscar-winner Emma Stone is taking on the villainous lead role. The Hollywood Reporter shares the film will be set in the 1980's and will play as an “punk vibe” origin story for Stone’s character. The movie is set to begin filming in London this summer for a 2020-eyed release, according to TheDInsider.

“Pinocchio”- TBD

This film hasn’t had the easiest journey so far. Following director Paul King’s leave in January, it was reported that the studio was looking to revamp the script. Earlier this month, it was reported that production on the live-action “Pinocchio” was expected to begin filming in June in the UK and Italy. As of November 2018, actor Tom Hanks was said to be in talks to play the character Geppetto.

“The Little Mermaid”- TBD

Director Rob Marshall is helming the live-action version of “The Little Mermaid,” and according to him, fans should expect new songs to expand on the 1989 film's catchy tunes. Marshall said Alan Menken and Lin-Manuel Miranda are also “coming on board to write some lyrics.”

“Lilo & Stitch”- TBD

It was revealed in October 2018 that Disney was planning to create a “live-action/CG hybrid” of its “Lilo & Stitch” 2002 film. The studio had hired Mike Van Waes as its screenwriter, according to The Hollywood Reporter. At the time, the outlet said it was unclear if Disney planned to release the film on its forthcoming streaming service.

“The Hunchback of Notre Dame”- TBD

It was announced in January by Deadline that Disney was planning for a live-action, musical version of the animated film. The outlet reported David Henry Hwang was brought on to write the script and that composer Alan Menken and lyricist Stephen Schwartz were writing music for the project. Actor Josh Gad is producing and rumors suggest he “might play the lead character.”