The Live-Action Boom is Here! A List of Actors and Actresses Who Played Major Roles in Disney's Live-Action Films
2019.06.14 published
The Momentum of Disney Live-Action Films is Amazing! ♡
In recent years, it seems like there’s a live-action boom in the film industry, with various Disney animated works being adapted into live-action! ♡
Most recently,
"Aladdin," which was released on June 7, 2019, and "Dumbo," which was released in March of the same year.
In 2018, there was "Christopher Robin."
In 2017, "Beauty and the Beast."
In 2015, "Cinderella."
Among many others, a plethora of live-action Disney films has been released worldwide.
Moreover!
The live-action boom is only set to accelerate! ♡
In August 2019, "The Lion King" was released.
In 2020, "Mulan" and "Jungle Cruise" will hit theaters.
Although the release dates are yet to be determined, it seems that productions for "The Little Mermaid" and "Tinker Bell" are also in the works.
I’m really looking forward to it! ♩
Let's Look Back at the Main Cast Over the Years! ♡
Unlike animation, the live-action Disney films showcase the passionate performances and singing of the cast, impressive scenes utilizing CGI, and a grand scale that captivates the audience.
In this article, we'll reflect on the actors and actresses who have played major roles over the years, by film ♩
(Ever find yourself wondering who played a certain role? What other works they’ve appeared in? It’s a curiosity that can strike at any time, right?)
Feel free to explore movies you want to watch again or ones you haven't seen yet! ♡
The films are listed in chronological order.
"Aladdin," Released in June 2019
Currently, "Aladdin" is a huge hit! ♡
The role of Aladdin is played by Mena Massoud (27), an actor born in Egypt and raised in Canada.
Until now, he was almost unknown internationally, and he is a rising star who won the role of Aladdin through auditions.
The heroine, Jasmine, is played by Naomi Scott (26), who has a British father and an Indian mother.
She has previously appeared in Disney Channel works, and her exotic charm makes her a promising Hollywood actress! ♡
And, of course, the role of the Genie is played by the well-known Will Smith (50).
After the Genie’s appearance was revealed, the internet buzzed about “the blue Will Smith.” ♩
He plays a humorous character that adds excitement to the film.
"Christopher Robin," Released in September 2018
"Christopher Robin," which became a hot topic for its heartwarming and moving story! ♡
The protagonist, the adult Christopher Robin, is portrayed by Ewan McGregor (48), who hails from Scotland.
He is well-known for his role as Obi-Wan in Star Wars and for being nominated for a Golden Globe for Moulin Rouge.
He also played Lumière in "Beauty and the Beast," which will be introduced next! ♩
"Beauty and the Beast," Released in April 2017
Disney’s classic "Beauty and the Beast" ♡
Belle is played by the globally renowned actress Emma Watson (29).
An intelligent, kind, very beautiful, and strong Belle! ♡
The Beast is portrayed by Dan Stevens (36), an actor born in the UK.
The Beast’s appearance was created with CGI, and he wore a massive special suit during filming! *
The strong Gaston is played by Luke Evans (40).
He is also famous for openly coming out as LGBT early in his career, making him a handsome actor with an impressive rap sheet.
"Cinderella," Released in April 2015
Next, we have the origin story of Disney— "Cinderella!" ♡
The kind and intelligent Cinderella is played by Lily James (30).
The role was a big break for her, cast just 2-3 years after her debut, making her story a true Cinderella story! ♩
She also played the young version of Donna in the 2018 sequel to Mamma Mia! ♡
The Prince is played by Richard Madden (32).
He is famous for his role as Robb Stark in Game of Thrones and David Budd in Bodyguard. ♩
An important role, the wicked stepmother Lady Tremaine, is played by Australian actress Cate Blanchett (50).
Often referred to as one of Hollywood's most beautiful actresses, she won the Academy Award for Best Actress and a Golden Globe for the film Blue Jasmine in 2013.
Her notable works include The Lord of the Rings, The Aviator, I'm Not There, and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button! *
"Maleficent," Released in July 2014
Next up, we have "Maleficent," focused on the villains of Sleeping Beauty. ♡
Maleficent is portrayed by the renowned actress Angelina Jolie (44).
A sequel is set to be released in the U.S. in October 2019!
Angelina made headlines in 2014 for marrying Brad Pitt after a seven-year relationship and wearing a dress designed by her six children.
With their divorce drama settled, she is currently focusing on her work, it seems.
Aurora is played by Elle Fanning (21).
She has been active since childhood and is a promising Hollywood actress! ♡
The Prince Philip, who falls in love with Aurora, is played by Australian actor Brenton Thwaites (29).
In 2017, he appeared in Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales and is being compared to a second Orlando Bloom! *
"Snow White and the Huntsman," Released in September 2012
Finally, we have "Snow White and the Huntsman," inspired by Snow White! ♡
Snow White is played by Lily Collins (30), known for her role in Love, Rosie.
A cute actress with sharp features! ♩
The Prince is played by Armie Hammer (32).
His notable works include Cars, Call Me by Your Name, and Sorry to Bother You! *
And the evil queen is portrayed by the iconic actress Julia Roberts (51).
Julia became a top actress with Pretty Woman in 1990 and is recently known for Wonder and Ben is Back! ♩
Live-Action Disney Films are All Wonderful Works! ♡
I have introduced the main cast members of various live-action Disney films.
The actors and actresses who have brought Disney's characters to life are truly fantastic, and many fans have likely been born from their performances! ♩