Disney's Next Live-Action Film Delayed Indefinitely After Director Backs Out

A director has backed out of an upcoming Disney film.

Rachel Zegler pretending to be Snow White in front of a poster of the classic animated princess — Credit: Rachel Zegler via Twitter

Over the last decade, The Walt Disney Company has created and produced numerous live-action versions of some of its most iconic films, ranging from The Little Mermaid (2023), Beauty and the Beast (2017), and Cinderella (2015). These versions are often highly debated prior to release and tend to create discussions regarding Disney’s creativity. Many fans would prefer Disney to focus on creating original content, but considering the sheer amount of money these types of films bring in, it’s understandable why Disney places such a big emphasis on live-action.

The Lion King (2019) brought in $1.6 billion at the box office, confirming there’s still massive interest in these types of films, with plenty more on the way. Disney is currently producing several live-action films, such as Lilo & Stitch and Moana, both of which are yet to get official release dates. Disney is also working on a live-action version of Snow White, which will be released on March 21, 2025. The film is already one of The Walt Disney Company’s most controversial films of all time due to comments made by Rachel Zegler, the star of the movie.

Now, one of Disney’s upcoming live-action films is hitting a major speedbump, with the director of the film backing out.

Bambi exploring the woods with friends — Credit: Disney

Two weeks ago, Sean Bailey left his position as President of Walt Disney Studios Motion Picture Production after 15 years of service, leaving the position to David Greenbaum. Following the massive shakeup in The Walt Disney Company’s film department, director Sarah Polley has exited Disney’s upcoming live-action version of Bambi, according to TheWrap.

Polley wrote and directed 2022’s Women Talking, as well as starred in the classic CBC show Road To Avonlea. Several live-action versions of classic Disney films were and are currently in the works, but Disney’s Bambi now lies without a director.

Sean Bailey’s departure from The Walt Disney Company marks a monumental shift within the company, with CEO Bob Iger stating Disney is committed now more than ever to producing quality content. Iger admitted Disney had “killed a few projects already that we just didn’t feel were strong enough,” at a recent investor conference. It’s possible Disney’s live-action Bambi film will get lost in the shuffle. Bailey had plans for several more live-action Disney films, including a sequel to Disney’s Jungle Cruise (2021) as well as a revival of the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise.

It’s unclear if Disney’s live-action Bambi will continue production following Polley’s departure.

What’s your favorite live-action Disney film?