Are Disney Remakes of Classic Films Living Up to the Originals?

Host Stephen Henderson looks at Disney films that have been remade in recent years and some of the big ones coming out in the future.

You’ve likely seen classics like “Dumbo,” “Beauty and the Beast,” the “Jungle Book,” and “Aladdin.” But have you seen the more current Disney remakes?

There are more on the way with a remake of “The Lion King” coming out this weekend. The next two Disney movies slated for a remake are “Mulan and “The Little Mermaid.”

So, what do you think of it all? Are you revisiting your childhood and hitting the theater when these films come out, or are you sticking with the classics?

Detroit Today host Stephen Henderson speaks with three guests about the cultural significance of Disney remakes.

Myles McNutt is a media critic and assistant professor of Communication & Theatre Arts at Old Dominion University.

Jen Chaney is a film and TV critic for Vulture.

Kim Trent is a member of the Wayne State University Board of Governors who recently wrote an op-ed for the Detroit Free Press about Disney’s decision to cast a young black woman in the role of Ariel in the remake of The Little Mermaid.

Click on the audio player above to hear the full conversation about the cultural significance of Disney remakes. 

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  • Detroit Today
    Dynamic and diverse voices. News, politics, community and the issues that define our region. Hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Stephen Henderson, Detroit Today brings you fresh and perceptive views weekdays at 9 am and 7 pm.