Disney is developing a live-action adaptation of its 2010 animated classicTangled, with the studio reportedly already in negotiations with a director. The originalTangledreimagined the Brothers Grimm fairytaleRapunzel, featuring the voice of Mandy Moore as the spirited princess with magical, golden hair. Confined to a brick tower by her captor (Donna Murphy), Rapunzel eventually escapes to uncover the truth about her identity with the help of the charismatic thief Flynn Rider (Zachary Levi).
According toDeadline,Michael Gracey is in talks to direct the live-actionTangledretelling. While plot details remain under wraps, the live-action version is expected to follow the animated film’s storyline. The original grossed over $590 million worldwide, earned an Oscar nomination for Best Original Song (“I See the Light”), and revitalized Disney’s princess genre for a new generation.
What Tangled’s Live-Action Adaptation Means
The Princess Joins A Growing List of Disney’s Live-Action Classics
Disney’s live-action remakes have been a significant part of its recent strategy, with notable successes including Craig Gillespe’sCruellaand Jon Favreau’sThe Jungle Book. These projects have historically reinterpreted beloved animated 20th century classics with updated visuals and comprehensive narratives.Tangledmarks a logical next step after the revival of various other princess stories—Cinderella(2015),Beauty and the Beast(2017), andThe Little Mermaid(2023)—as its adventurous, visually rich tale and heartfelt characters fit well within the live-action mold.
Gracey’s directorial style, showcased in the widely acclaimedThe Greatest Showmanand the upcomingBetter Man, demonstrates his flair for musical storytelling, drama, and visually dynamic filmmaking. As Gracey’s first box office hit and a Golden Globe winner,The Greatest Showmancombinesa heartfelt story with elaborate musical numbers,exemplifying the director’s strong potential to align withTangled’s vibrant and musical DNA. At the helm ofTangled’s live-action revival, Gracey’s experience could offer a fresh yet faithful take on the animated material.
Our Take On Tangled’s Slated Live-Action Adaptation
What Gracey Definitely Needs To Get Right
Tangledwas a pop culture phenomenon that redefined the Disney princess archetype with humor, adventure, and a frying pan in hand. Casting will no doubt begin Gracey’s challenge of reviving the animated film where the charm andchemistry of Rapunzel and Riderparticularly stood out. Nonetheless,Gracey’s prior work suggests a director capable of facing the challenges of a highly-anticipated adaption. With a strong creative team and a compelling story,Tangledpresents a project that could shine as brightly as Rapunzel’s golden hair.
Tangled
Cast
An adaptation of the fairytale of Rapunzel, Disney’s Tangled follows the long-haired princess as she journeys to discover her real identity. Kidnapped as a child by the evil Mother Gothel to exploit the healing properties of her magical hair, Rapunzel (Mandy Moore) has lived her whole life isolated in a tower. A chance encounter with a smooth-talking fugitive called Flynn Ryder (Zachary Levi) sees Rapunzel venture out into the dangerous world to find the kingdom of Corona and unlock the secrets of her past.
