Walt Disney Studios has recently sparked conversations about its ongoing trend of live-action remakes, particularly with the anticipated adaptation of the 2010 animated film, Tangled. Reports surfaced in October 2023 indicating that actress Scarlett Johansson was in discussions to portray Mother Gothel in this upcoming project. Coincidentally, Disney’s latest animated release, Zootopia 2, cleverly addresses this trend, including a humorous nod to the live-action adaptation of Tangled.
In the original Zootopia, a character named Duke Weaselton appears as a street vendor selling parody DVDs of popular films. Among these was a humorous version of Tangled titled Wrangled, featuring a horse in place of Rapunzel. Zootopia 2 brings back Duke, who now promotes a live-action version of Wrangled during a fast-paced chase scene through the city’s Tube system. In this moment, he quips, “Anything you need, I got ’em. Sequels, prequels, re-quels. Who says the industry’s going down the tube?”
This line serves as a sharp commentary on Disney’s current reliance on sequels and remakes, while also showcasing the studio’s self-awareness in the midst of its extensive catalog of adaptations. The reference adds a layer of humor to the film, with audiences appreciating the cleverness behind the joke.
The film is co-directed by Byron Howard, who also directed the original Tangled, alongside Jared Bush, Chief Creative Officer at Walt Disney Animation Studios. Howard’s involvement raises intriguing questions about his perspective on live-action adaptations of his past work. Although he has not publicly commented on the live-action Tangled, the inclusion of the Wrangled joke may reflect his nuanced feelings about the industry trend.
While live-action adaptations have proven to be lucrative for Disney, they often provoke mixed reactions from fans. Recent discussions surrounding the upcoming live-action adaptation of Moana illustrate the ongoing debates within the community regarding the necessity and artistic merit of remaking animated classics.
Despite the speculation surrounding the filmmakers’ intentions, the joke in Zootopia 2 stands out as a clever reflection on the current landscape of Disney films. It demonstrates the animation studio’s ability to engage with its audience while also poking fun at its own practices.
As Disney+ continues to expand its offerings, starting at $11.99 a month for its ad-supported plan, viewers can access a vast library of Disney films, both animated and live-action. This accessibility raises further questions about the value of new adaptations when classic films are readily available for streaming.
In conclusion, Zootopia 2 not only entertains with its engaging story and vibrant characters but also provides a thoughtful commentary on the state of Disney’s film production. By incorporating humor into its narrative, the film resonates with audiences while highlighting the studio’s ongoing evolution in a rapidly changing entertainment landscape.
