Ranking Disney’s Live-Action Princess Movies: From Flawed to Flawless

Disney’s live-action adaptations of its animated classics have become a cornerstone of modern cinema, breathing new life into beloved stories while introducing iconic princesses to new generations. Since the trend gained momentum with Cinderella in 2015, Disney has brought seven princesses to the live-action screen, each with varying degrees of success. These adaptations walk a tightrope between staying faithful to the original animated films and introducing fresh elements to justify their existence. The result is a spectrum of performances and portrayals that range from lackluster to luminous. Below, we rank every live-action Disney princess from worst to best, diving into what made each portrayal soar or stumble, while exploring their impact and reception.

7. Mulan (Mulan, 2020)

Portrayed by: Yifei Liu

At the bottom of our ranking is Mulan, a character whose live-action adaptation failed to capture the heart and soul of the 1998 animated classic. The original Mulan tells the story of a young Chinese woman who disguises herself as a man to take her ailing father’s place in the army. Along the way, she discovers her inner strength, forms meaningful connections, and learns to embrace her authentic self. The animated film is celebrated for its humor, memorable characters like Mushu and Shang, and its empowering message about vulnerability and resilience.

The 2020 live-action Mulan, however, takes a drastically different approach. Directed by Niki Caro, the film opts for a more serious, epic tone, stripping away the music, Mushu, Shang, and much of the original’s charm. While the film’s visuals are stunning and its action sequences ambitious, these changes left many fans feeling disconnected. Yifei Liu delivers a strong performance as Mulan, showcasing physical prowess and determination, but the character lacks the wit, ferocity, and relatability that made animated Mulan so compelling. The live-action Mulan is portrayed as an almost superhuman warrior, gifted with extraordinary “chi,” which undermines the original’s theme that ordinary people can achieve greatness through perseverance and authenticity.

The removal of key elements like Mulan’s internal struggle and her camaraderie with fellow soldiers further flattens the character. Critics noted that the film’s attempt to be culturally authentic—consulting Chinese historians and incorporating folklore—clashed with its deviation from the animated story fans loved. With a 71% critics’ score and 47% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, Mulan (2020) disappointed many, making Liu’s Mulan the weakest live-action Disney princess portrayal.

6. Aurora/Briar Rose (Maleficent, 2014)

Portrayed by: Elle Fanning

Aurora, also known as Briar Rose, ranks low not because of a poor performance but because she isn’t the focal point of her film. Disney’s 2014 Maleficent, a reimagining of 1959’s Sleeping Beauty, shifts the spotlight to the titular antihero, played by Angelina Jolie. The film explores Maleficent’s backstory, framing her as a wronged fairy who curses Princess Aurora but later forms a maternal bond with her. This perspective shift makes Aurora a supporting character in her own story, limiting her impact as a live-action princess.

Elle Fanning’s portrayal of Aurora is by no means lackluster. She brings a radiant curiosity and kindness to the role, embodying the gentle spirit of the animated princess. Fanning’s Aurora is more fleshed out than her 1959 counterpart, who famously had minimal screen time. Scenes of Aurora exploring the moors and bonding with Maleficent highlight her warmth and innocence. However, the film’s focus on Maleficent’s redemption arc overshadows Aurora’s development. She remains a passive figure, with little agency or complexity, making her less memorable compared to other live-action princesses.

Maleficent was a commercial success, grossing over $758 million worldwide, and its 54% critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes reflects mixed reviews, though audiences gave it a 70% approval. A direct live-action Sleeping Beauty might have allowed Aurora to shine brighter, but in this narrative, she’s eclipsed by Jolie’s commanding performance. Fanning’s Aurora is lovely but lacks the depth or prominence to rank higher.

5. Snow White (Snow White, 2025)

Portrayed by: Rachel Zegler

Disney’s most recent live-action princess, Snow White, occupies a middle ground due to her polarizing reception and the controversies surrounding her film. Released in 2025, Snow White reimagines the 1937 classic Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Disney’s first animated feature. The story follows Snow White, the daughter of benevolent rulers, as she navigates her stepmother’s cruelty and fights for her kingdom with the help of the dwarfs and local rebels. Directed by Marc Webb, the film aims to modernize the tale while retaining its fairy-tale essence.

Rachel Zegler’s casting as Snow White sparked significant debate, with some criticizing her political views and others questioning her suitability for the role. Despite the backlash, Zegler delivers a heartfelt performance that captures Snow White’s iconic sweetness while adding layers of determination and leadership. Her vocal talent shines in reimagined versions of classic songs like “Whistle While You Work,” and she physically embodies the character with her porcelain complexion and dark hair. Zegler’s Snow White is more proactive than her animated predecessor, reflecting Disney’s trend of giving princesses greater agency.

However, the film itself faced scrutiny for its deviations from the original, including CGI-heavy dwarfs and a more action-oriented plot. With a 40% critics’ score and a 73% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, Snow White (2025) divided viewers. Some praised Zegler’s charm and the film’s visuals, while others felt it strayed too far from the source material. Zegler’s performance is a highlight, but the controversy and mixed reception place Snow White mid-tier among live-action princesses.

4. Jasmine (Aladdin, 2019)

Portrayed by: Naomi Scott

Jasmine in 2019’s Aladdin represents a successful update to a beloved character, earning her a solid spot in our ranking. Directed by Guy Ritchie, the live-action Aladdin follows the 1992 animated film’s core story: a street rat named Aladdin discovers a genie, falls in love with Princess Jasmine, and faces off against the scheming Jafar. The film enhances Jasmine’s role, giving her more agency and a stronger voice in Agrabah’s politics.

Naomi Scott’s Jasmine is a standout, building on the animated princess’s fiery spirit. In the original, Jasmine was known for her defiance and desire for freedom, but Scott takes this further, portraying her as a leader eager to rule Agrabah justly. The addition of a new song, “Speechless,” showcases Jasmine’s resolve to be heard, and Scott’s powerful vocals elevate the moment. Her chemistry with Mena Massoud’s Aladdin adds depth to their romance, while her confrontations with Jafar highlight her courage.

Aladdin (2019) received mixed reviews, with a 57% critics’ score but a strong 94% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting its broad appeal. Critics noted that the film occasionally felt bloated, but Scott’s performance was widely praised for modernizing Jasmine without losing her essence. Her portrayal strikes a balance between honoring the original and forging a new path, making Jasmine one of the stronger live-action princesses.

3. Belle (Beauty and the Beast, 2017)

Portrayed by: Emma Watson

Belle from 2017’s Beauty and the Beast earns a high ranking for her faithful yet vibrant portrayal. Directed by Bill Condon, the live-action adaptation closely mirrors the 1991 animated classic, chronicling Belle’s journey from a bookish villager to the captive of a cursed Beast, whom she ultimately helps redeem through love. The film expands Belle’s backstory, delving into her mother’s death and her father’s inventiveness, adding depth to her character.

Emma Watson’s Belle is a near-perfect embodiment of the original. She captures Belle’s intelligence, sass, and compassion, delivering iconic lines like “I want adventure in the great wide somewhere” with conviction. While some criticized Watson’s singing as less polished than Paige O’Hara’s in the animated version, her acting more than compensates. Watson’s chemistry with Dan Stevens’ Beast and her interactions with the enchanted castle objects bring warmth and humor to the story. The film’s lavish production design and costumes further enhance Belle’s presence, with the iconic yellow gown becoming a modern classic.

Beauty and the Beast (2017) was a massive hit, grossing over $1.2 billion worldwide and earning a 71% critics’ score and 80% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. Watson’s performance was lauded for its authenticity, though some felt the film leaned too heavily on nostalgia. Belle’s blend of familiarity and subtle updates makes her a top-tier live-action princess.

2. Ariel (The Little Mermaid, 2023)

Portrayed by: Halle Bailey

Ariel from 2023’s The Little Mermaid claims the second spot for her captivating and emotionally resonant portrayal. Directed by Rob Marshall, the live-action adaptation follows the 1989 animated film’s narrative: Ariel, a mermaid princess, dreams of exploring the human world, falls in love with Prince Eric, and makes a risky deal with Ursula to gain legs. The film expands Ariel’s underwater world and her romance with Eric, adding new songs and deeper character moments.

Halle Bailey’s casting as Ariel faced significant backlash from some who argued she didn’t match the animated character’s appearance. However, Bailey’s performance silenced most critics, delivering a tour-de-force portrayal. Her rendition of “Part of Your World” is breathtaking, capturing Ariel’s longing with raw emotion. Bailey excels in the voiceless scenes, conveying Ariel’s curiosity and determination through expressive body language and facial expressions. The film’s enhanced focus on Ariel and Eric’s relationship, portrayed with genuine chemistry by Bailey and Jonah Hauer-King, adds layers to her arc.

The Little Mermaid (2023) earned a 67% critics’ score and 94% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting strong fan approval. Bailey’s performance was widely celebrated, with many calling her the heart of the film. By honoring Ariel’s essence while elevating her story, Bailey’s portrayal is among the finest live-action princess adaptations.

1. Cinderella (Cinderella, 2015)

Portrayed by: Lily James

Topping our list is Cinderella, whose 2015 live-action portrayal set the gold standard for Disney’s remakes. Directed by Kenneth Branagh, Cinderella retells the 1950 animated classic with reverence and flair. The story follows Ella, a kind-hearted young woman enslaved by her cruel stepmother and stepsisters, who gets a magical chance to attend a royal ball and meet Prince Kit.

Lily James is nothing short of enchanting as Cinderella. She embodies the character’s grace, resilience, and unwavering kindness, making “Have courage and be kind” a mantra that resonates throughout the film. James’ performance is whimsical yet grounded, capturing the fairy-tale magic without feeling caricatured. Her chemistry with Richard Madden’s Prince is electric, and iconic moments like the ball scene—complete with a stunning blue gown and glass slippers—are executed with breathtaking elegance. The film’s supporting cast, including Cate Blanchett as the stepmother and Helena Bonham Carter as the fairy godmother, elevates James’ performance further.

Cinderella (2015) was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $542 million worldwide and earning an 83% critics’ score and 78% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. Reviewers praised its fidelity to the original while adding emotional depth, with James’ performance hailed as the film’s heart. Her Cinderella remains the benchmark for live-action Disney princesses, blending nostalgia, sincerity, and timeless charm.

Final Thoughts

Disney’s live-action princesses reflect the challenges and triumphs of adapting animated icons for modern audiences. From Cinderella’s magical fidelity to Mulan’s divisive reinvention, each portrayal offers something unique, whether it’s a fresh perspective, a stellar performance, or a lesson in balancing tradition with innovation. Lily James’ Cinderella stands as the pinnacle, a near-perfect adaptation that captures the essence of a Disney princess. Meanwhile, characters like Mulan and Aurora show the risks of straying too far or not getting enough focus.

As Disney continues its live-action journey, the successes of Ariel, Belle, and Jasmine suggest there’s still room to reimagine these stories with care and creativity. However, the mixed reception to Snow White and Mulan serves as a reminder that fans cherish the heart of these tales. Whether future adaptations soar or stumble, the legacy of these princesses—animated and live-action—endures as a testament to Disney’s storytelling magic.

See also: 24 Must-Watch Animated Movies for the Whole Family