Disney’s Live-Action TANGLED Is Back in Motion, and Scarlett Johansson Might Join the Film
After being tangled up in development limbo, Disney’s live-action remake of Tangled is swinging back into action. The project, which had The Greatest Showman director Michael Gracey attached last year, was reportedly shelved following the disappointing box office performance of Snow White.
According to Deadline, Disney is ready to climb that tower once again, and this time, Scarlett Johansson might be joining the cast as the scheming Mother Gothel.
The outlet revealed that the project was temporarily paused because of Snow White’s rough box office performance but explained that the difference in audience interest played a big role in its revival, noting that “there’s a big difference in regards to the audience appeal for old Disney animated pics receiving the live action take, versus those titles post the 1989 Little Mermaid musical renaissance.”
That logic makes sense when you look at Disney’s track record. While Snow White struggled, the live-action remakes from Disney’s modern Renaissance era such as Aladdin, The Lion King, and Beauty and the Beast all soared at the box office. Even Lilo & Stitch managed to become this year’s only billion-dollar earner, proving fans still love these updated takes on newer classics.
The remake of Tangled will feature a script by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson, and it’s expected to stick close to the 2010 animated film.
The original starred Mandy Moore as Rapunzel and Zachary Levi as Flynn Rider, following the story of the lost princess trapped in a tower by Mother Gothel, who steals her magical hair’s power to preserve her youth.
No casting confirmations have been made for Rapunzel or Flynn yet, but Johansson’s potential as Gothel could be a major win for Disney. The actress has a strong relationship with the studio after her time as Natasha Romanoff in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and her star power could give this adaptation a serious boost.
The original Tangled was a major success for Disney, grossing nearly $600 million worldwide and winning a Grammy for its hit song “I See the Light.” The movie’s popularity has only grown since then, inspiring theme park attractions, merchandise, and a loyal fanbase that’s still eager for more of Rapunzel’s world.
With Tangled’s mix of music, adventure, and heartfelt storytelling, it’s easy to see why Disney wants to revisit it. While I don’t care for these remakes, a whole new generation of kids will enjoy it.