Review: Tangled Live Action (2025)
Disney’s Tangled Live Action brings the beloved fairy tale of Rapunzel to the big screen once again, this time with a dazzling mix of grandeur and intimacy. Directed with a clear affection for the 2010 animated classic, the film manages to capture both the whimsy and the heart of its predecessor while giving it a more grounded, emotional weight.
The story remains faithful to the original: Rapunzel, locked away in her towering prison, dreams of freedom and adventure until her life changes with the arrival of Flynn Rider, the charming rogue with a mysterious past. Yet the live-action adaptation adds new layers—more detailed backstory, deeper character motivations, and a surprisingly dark edge in Mother Gothel’s manipulations.
Visually, the film is breathtaking. The lantern sequence, recreated with practical effects and subtle CGI, is nothing short of mesmerizing—one of those rare cinematic moments that earns audible gasps from the audience. Costume and set design embrace a lush medieval aesthetic that feels tangible and lived-in, while the cinematography makes even the smallest scenes glow with fairy-tale magic.
Performances are strong across the cast. The actress portraying Rapunzel embodies innocence and resilience, balancing wide-eyed wonder with fierce determination. Flynn Rider’s actor oozes charisma and comedic timing, and the chemistry between the two leads anchors the film beautifully. Mother Gothel, meanwhile, steals nearly every scene with her chilling, manipulative charm—making her one of Disney’s most memorable live-action villains yet.
Not everything shines as brightly: a few of the musical numbers don’t quite capture the energy of the animated versions, and some may feel the runtime stretches longer than needed. Still, these are minor flaws in what is otherwise a magical, heartfelt retelling.
Verdict: Tangled Live Action (2025) is both a nostalgic journey and a bold reimagining. It may not replace the animated masterpiece in fans’ hearts, but it stands proudly beside it, offering a fresh, emotionally rich experience.
⭐ Rating: 8.5/10
