Disney has been putting a new spin on their material by recreating their classic animations into live-action films. Disney put a twist on “Maleficent” and “Alice in Wonderland” while creating near straight adaptations of “Cinderella” and “Beauty and the Beast.”
With these films, Disney has found a way to tap into the nostalgia of its longtime fans while telling these stories anew for younger generations.
Disney’s live-action “The Little Mermaid” is in the early stages of development and it is rumored to have offered the lead role of Ariel to Disney Channel actress and singer Zendaya Coleman.
Disney and Zendaya’s reps declined to comment, however, should it be true, it is speculated that King Triton and Ariel’s sisters would be played by actors of color.
Zendaya got her start on Disney, starring on Disney Channel sitcoms “Shake It Up” and “K.C. Undercover.” She also starred in the major blockbuster musical “The Greatest Showman” this past holiday as well as the popular “Spider-man: Homecoming.”
Aside from “The Little Mermaid,” Disney has a number of live-action adaptations in the works. Early next year, Tim Burton’s “Dumbo” will hit theaters, then Guy Ritchie’s “Aladdin” later in the spring. After the success of Jon Favreau’s live-action/CGI “The Jungle Book,” the director is now working on a new version of “The Lion King.” Additionally, both “Mulan” and “Maleficent II” are officially filming.
By: Maytinee Kramer
