Live-Action Hunchback Of Notre Dame Gets Uncertain Update From Original Producer

Summary

• Producer Roy Conli is uncertain about the progress of
  The Hunchback of Notre Dame
  ‘s live-action adaptation.
• Conli finds the idea of a live-action version interesting and believes it could be a stunning film.
• The movie was announced in 2019, but the last news of it was in May 2023, where it seemed uncertain if the film was going to be made.

The Hunchback of Notre Dame producer Roy Conli has offered an uncertain update on the animated film’s previously announced live-action movie. The 1996 Disney classic follows Quasimodo, the titular character, as he tries to save a woman named Esmerelda from the clutches of his guardian, Frollo. A live-action version of the movie was announced in 2019, although there has been little concrete news on its progress since the announcement was first made.

Speaking with Screen Rant about Disneynature’s Tiger – which streams on Disney+ beginning Earth Day, April 22 – Conli revealed he didn’t know much about The Hunchback of Notre Dame‘s live-action adaptation. The producer explained that, while he had no information, he does think a live-action adaptation would be a good movie. Check out what Conli had to say about the film below:

I too have heard rumor of that. I don’t have any solid information on that. But I do think it’s interesting. I would love to. I think that could be a stunning one. I think that’s Alan Menken’s most beautiful score. I absolutely adore that score. But I also think Treasure Planet would make a great live-action film, and that’s another one that I [about] 20 years ago.

Why A Live-Action Hunchback Of Notre Dame May Not Happen

The original movie is still considered a classic Disney animated feature, exploring religious themes in tandem with the idea of accepting societal differences and not being afraid of accepting oneself. However, despite a live-action adaptation being announced in 2019, news in May 2023 revealed the movie may not happen after all. Composer Alan Menken revealed progress on the film had halted at that time, citing the real-world issues and religious themes that may be inappropriate for a new rendition. After 11 months, there is still no word on if the adaptation is actually happening.

Given the lack of news surrounding a live-action remake of the Disney classic, it seems as if the movie may not happen because of the reasons Menken mentioned. Despite The Hunchback of Notre Dame‘s memorable characters, musical numbers, and dramatic moments, its mature themes may not align with the themes and tone of other live-action adaptations. While it could still be done in live-action form, the end result may not be as powerful or potent as the original is, especially if key aspects would have to be removed.

However, even if the film doesn’t get an adaptation, there are still plenty of other Disney live-action remakes coming soon, such as Snow White and Moana. Conli’s idea about Treasure Planet getting the live-action treatment may also work, bringing its sci-fi story into the real world. While it may be disappointing that The Hunchback of Notre Dame is unlikely to get a live-action version sometime soon, there’s also the possibility Disney changes its mind and decides exploring its themes in a remake is still doable.

The Hunchback of Notre Dame
is streaming on Disney+.