First Look At Disney’s Live-Action ‘Tangled’ Reveals Rapunzel and Flynn Rider

Disney continues its live-action remake trend with ‘Tangled’, the latest classic receiving a shot-for-shot adaptation. The original animated film, released in 2010, earned over $591 million globally and inspired both a short film and a long-running Disney Channel series, setting high expectations for this new version.

Teagan Croft and Milo Manheim were cast as Rapunzel and Flynn Rider in January, following a quiet search that began when the project was first announced in December 2024. Croft is recognized for her role as Raven in the DC series ‘Titans’, while Manheim gained popularity through Disney’s ‘Zombies’ franchise and his memorable stint on ‘Dancing with the Stars’.

With filming now in progress, fans are getting their first glimpse of the lead characters. Recent set photos show Croft as Rapunzel, sporting a massive braid reminiscent of the iconic floating lantern scene from the animated film, while Manheim is fully dressed as Flynn Rider, closely mirroring the character’s original look.

The photos reveal some subtle changes from the original material alongside familiar elements. Croft wears a long blonde wig that reaches her knees, likely for regular dialogue scenes, while more complex hair stunts are expected to utilize visual effects. Additionally, her dress appears in a deeper shade of purple compared to the lighter hue of the animated character.

Manheim’s portrayal of Flynn Rider has garnered attention for its close resemblance to the animated version, complete with tousled dark hair and a mustache and goatee that he grew specifically for the role. Earlier images from the start of filming hinted at this transformation, along with Croft’s notably shorter haircut that debuted around the same time production began.

Directed by Michael Gracey, known for ‘The Greatest Showman’ and ‘Better Man’, the screenplay is penned by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson, whose credits include ‘Do Revenge’ and ‘Thor: Love and Thunder’. Kristin Burr, who produced ‘Cruella’ and ‘Freaky Friday’, is also involved in the project.

The supporting cast features Kathryn Hahn as the villainous Mother Gothel, alongside Diego Luna, who has joined the production as well. Hahn’s casting continues her streak of high-profile roles following her performance in ‘Agatha All Along’, adding another recognizable name to the film alongside its rising stars.

These set photos come at a cautious time for Disney’s live-action projects, following the underperformance of the ‘Moana’ remake, which is projected to lose over $100 million by the end of its theatrical run. Unlike ‘Moana’, ‘Tangled’ does not face the pressure of following an animated sequel released just two years prior, which may work in its favor.

While there is no official release date for ‘Tangled’ yet, the film is anticipated to premiere sometime in 2027.

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