We’re seeing a lot of classic Disney animated movies adapted into live-action films. Lady and the Tramp is the latest contender and can only be seen on Disney+.
It sometimes seems like an odd decision to retell a story that was already successfully told. There is something fascinating about seeing an animated production translated into live-action. I was pleasantly surprised by Aladdin. I haven’t seen The Lion King, but it did amazingly well at the box office.
Lady and the Tramp is an adaption that is told with less glitz, and that’s exactly how it should be done. Like the other Disney remakes, you may already know the story, but you’ll definitely want to see the end results.
If you’re an animal lover or a fan of the classic movie, you’ll immediately get sucked into the movie. Real dogs are used, and you might wonder how much were they actually used versus computer generated effects. Once you start watching, you’ll find that doesn’t matter. You be enamored by the cute critters as you watch the story unfold.
Lady and the Tramp is a movie I’ve seen numerous times with my daughter. It has been a few years since I’ve watched, but it does seem like the story has remained mostly untouched. Tessa Thompson captures the essence of Lady and Justin Theroux delivers a fantastic Tramp.
There are minor changes such as Kiersey Clemons cast as Darling. You will find more diversity in the townsfolk, which is a great thing. The movie may take place in an earlier time, but why should we have a movie filled with only white actors? All the humans do a remarkable job on screen. The city with old cars and horse-drawn carriages truly comes to life. It’s easy to overlook this cartoon world being brought to life, but it should be noted and admired.
One difference that might bother some Disney purists is the changing of Jock’s gender. The terrier is now Jackie instead. In the grand scene of the movie, it’s another insignificant change. Ashley Jensen voices her character well.
The rest of the cast includes Sam Elliott as Trusty, Janelle Monae as Peg, Benedict Wong as Bull, Thomas Mann as Jim Dear, Yvette Nicole Brown as Aunt Sarah, Adrian Martinez as the dog catcher, and F. Murray Abraham as Tony the restaurant owner.
After watching the movie, I started thinking about who exactly this movie was for. Apart from being a family film, at times it felt like it could hold the attention of younger audiences a little better. That being said, I did find myself getting a little stressed out despite fully knowing how the movie is supposed to end. You could say there are some slightly intense moments with the dog catcher or a certain rat. Obviously you should be watching this with the younger kiddos for their first viewing to make sure they handle the moments okay.
Is this movie for everyone? Working with young teens, I could see some possibly thinking they were too “cool” for a movie like this. What it comes down to is whether or not you’re a fan of cute doggies, you enjoy Disney movies, and you have a heart. It’s a delightful story and the filmmakers do an extraordinary job translating it into live-action for a new generation. I may be getting sentimental as I get older, but this movie struck all the right chords. I am glad this movie was made. This is quality family entertainment.
Lady and the Tramp premieres on November 12, streaming only on Disney+.
What the Heck is going on?!? 