Recently, Disney has been rather focused on turning all its classic animated films into live action movies. Though, can you really consider a flick “live action” if the vast majority of it is CGI? But, that’s a debate for another day. The very first feature length film to do this was called The Lost World. It was based on the book with the same title, and debuted back in 1925. If you’re curious, you can download a free copy, since the film’s age means it falls into the “public domain” category.
Disney would go on to create a number of films which melded true cartoon animation, with live actors and real backgrounds. As a kid, they were always a blast to watch as they blurred the lines between fantasy and reality. As an adult, they’re still fun to watch. Here are some of the Disney movies that we feel blended classic animation and live action the best.
What kid who watched this movie didn’t wish they had Mary Poppins as their nanny? The movie was fun and full of whimsy. The songs were catchy, and would get stuck in your head for days. The very thought of being able to jump into a painting, ride a magical carousel, or totally ignore physics, could blow your adolescent mind. This movie mixed live action with animation so beautifully, that it made many a lasting impression on little ones and adults alike. It still does to this day. It remains one of the most beloved of all Disney movies, to this day.
This movie never quite gets the love and recognition it deserves. Which is a real shame, because it is amazing. Angela Lansbury (aka the voice of Mrs. Potts in the animated Beauty and the Beast) plays an English witch named Miss Price. She is trying to finish her training in witchcraft when she suddenly finds herself taking in three children who were displaced during The Blitz in England during World War II. Neither she nor the children are exactly thrilled with the prospect of being together. However, they soon learn her secret and are suddenly more willing to stay in her care. The movie culminates with the group fighting Nazis with the help of a little spell craft. Yup, we know how it sounds. See it anyway, it’s well worth a watch.
This is another of those Disney movies that so charmingly blends live action and animation. Yes, there was a remake a few years ago, but the original deserves a watch. While there are some similarities with the newer version, it is different enough. Elliott is a pretty cute dragon, to boot. While the physical comedy here might feel a bit over the top, and parts of the film are totally corny, it’s still well worth a view.
This was a Disney film that really elevated the live action mixed with animation game. The interaction between the two worlds felt more much more smooth and believable. It featured animation property of both Disney and Warner Brothers. When Roger Rabbit is framed for murder, he seeks out the help of a private detective. The two soon uncover a plot that goes much further down the rabbit hole than expected. It’s also a more adult movie than you might have realized when you were a kid.
