Written by Hannah Haffner

With the release of Snow White this weekend, another beloved classic gets the live-action treatment. But this isn’t just about reimagining fairy tales, it’s a masterclass for brands in how nostalgia and modern storytelling can work together to captivate audiences (old and new) and drive cultural relevance.

From The Lion King to Cinderella, The Little Mermaid to Barbie, and of course Wicked, these adaptations are proving time and time again that familiar stories aren’t just for reliving your childhood memories, they’re powerful commercial forces that bring in both lifelong fans and fresh audiences.

So why do live-action adaptations work?

1. They Bridge Generations

Live-action remakes invite older audiences to relive cherished memories while introducing younger generations to iconic characters in a way that feels relevant today. It’s a fine balance for Studios to bring an element of nostalgia to keep the OG’s happy with modern storytelling to keep it fresh. Whether that’s through deeper character development, updated narratives, or visual innovation.

2️. They Reinvent, Not Just Retell

These films aren’t just frame-for-frame remakes. Barbie wasn’t just about a doll. It was so much more than that. It was a self-aware, culturally sharp take on femininity and empowerment. Wicked isn’t just a Wizard of Oz prequel. It’s a character-driven reimagining of an entire universe. This reinvention is key to keeping the story fresh while maintaining its nostalgic core.

3️. They Offer Unparalleled Brand Opportunities

Studios aren’t just making movies. They’re building worlds where brands can be a part of their world (sing it Little Mermaid fans). Whether it’s product placements, limited-edition collaborations, or immersive brand activations, live-action adaptations create massive engagement opportunities for brands.

The Brand Opportunity: Nostalgia Sells

At BAM, we specialise in helping brands tap into entertainment’s biggest moments including nostalgia-fuelled adaptations like Snow White. These films don’t just bring beloved characters back to life, they create cultural moments that brands can jump on to drive awareness, relevance, and engagement.

If you’re interested in bringing your brand into a world audiences already love, let’s chat. 🎬✨