Live action films transport me to that place where the real and fictional world coexist — they make me feel connected to the spirit of magic, but that magic fades when CGI (computer-generated imagery) is overused. I understand some things are impossible to execute with practical effects, but then why are we calling it a “live action” film when the majority of it is made with a green screen or animation? Perhaps more films should follow in the steps of Lady and the Tramp (2019), where they used real dogs and only applied digital effects to anthropomorphize them. When overdone, CGI taints the authenticity and diminishes the magic and visuals of a story when things aren’t real. To me it becomes obvious with unnecessary shadows, disproportions, and unnatural facial movements. That’s when I wonder if watching a live action film is worth it.
Just like CGI, the release of one live action film after the other — five in 2019 alone — is causing burnout. It’s overwhelming. Especially when each one comes with a side of critical reviews from the public that smashes my dreams about how good they are before I have a chance to establish my own perspective. The media always seems to highlight the negative opinions more than the positive ones, so the poor critiques that swarm the movie’s release make them seem less worthy than they might actually be. I try to go in with an open mind, since I highly anticipate each new release. However, the defeatist publicity that gets to audiences early on ruins the experience of watching it for the first time. Due to this, I feel that live action films have gained an unnecessary poor reputation, and the true purpose behind these stories are being lost.
Walt Disney himself created Disney to have a place where people of all ages could go to be together, and be happy. I think of Disney films, not just live actions, as a function of this. Recently, Disney has been creating space for more inclusive and diverse characters by reimagining old classics with a wider variety of representations. While this is a great step toward a more equitable society — I argue that these characters could instead be re-imagined into brand new roles and narratives that celebrate traditionally marginalized communities and highlight their unique qualities instead of halfheartedly tacking them onto an old narrative.
That way, a whole new legacy is created that is refreshing to audiences at the same time. This doesn’t mean we forget the originals and erase the nostalgia we once knew, we would simply be making room for more people to enjoy and cherish that same Disney magic. At the end of the day, it’s the unique characters, incredible costuming, and makeup that make me glad I’ve watched their live actions. I think Disney is a special place that keeps us young and encourages imagination. Therefore, regardless of CGI and the negativity surrounding them, I will continue to welcome each Disney live action film with open arms and wide, giddy eyes.
Veronica is a Staff Writer at The Cascade. She loves to travel and explore new places, no matter how big or small. She is in her second year at UFV, pursuing the study of Creative
Writing.