After months of speculation about who would take on the role of the new Flynn Rider, the wait is finally over. Milo Manheim, known for his roles in the “Zombies” series and “Dancing with the Stars,” will be portraying Flynn Rider in the live-action adaptation. “Tangled,” the animated film released in 2010, tells the story of a princess kidnapped from her kingdom because of her magical hair. She remains imprisoned in a tower for years, dreaming of escape until a man intrudes, finding the royal guard, and not knowing that he will end up meeting his true love in the process. The original “Tangled” grossed $591 million worldwide, but now the question is: Will Milo Manheim do justice to the character of Flynn Rider or tarnish his charm?
Manheim may have the potential to portray Flynn Rider even better than Zachary Levi, thanks to his extensive experience in the movie musical genre. His credits include “Zombies” one, two, three and four, as well as “Journey to Bethlehem.” With expertise in musical theater—having performed in “Rent,” “Spring Awakening” and “Generation Me”—it’s possible that Manheim could become the best Flynn Rider we’ve seen. He is at a pivotal moment in his career.
In the 2023 film “Journey to Bethlehem,” Manheim demonstrated his musical talents remarkably well. This film tells the story of Joseph and Mary falling in love, and Joseph coming to terms with Mary’s pregnancy with Jesus as they journey through Bethlehem. Each biblical tale is told through music. The song “The Ultimate Deception” highlights Manheim’s vocal control and his ability to express Joseph’s inner turmoil upon learning of Mary’s pregnancy. The physical and emotional pain he conveys while singing showcases his experience in the musical world. “We Become We” beautifully portrays the love between Mary and Joseph, reflecting their fears and doubts about whether their relationship is a true love or simply an arrangement. Manheim’s portrayal of Joseph is both unique and moving, suggesting he will seamlessly adapt this depth to his role in “Tangled.”
Manheim’s film musical career began with the 2018 Disney film “Zombies.” This film explores the coexistence of zombies and humans in the town of Seabrook. Zed learns to embrace his identity rather than conform to societal expectations and falls in love with Addison, despite their community’s divisions. While the romance between Zed and Addison is more youthful than in “Journey to Bethlehem,” both stories share the theme of questioning love.
This theme continues into “Tangled” as Flynn Rider grapples with whether he truly loves Rapunzel and how far he would go to fight for her. All of this is beautifully told in the song “I See the Light,” which is highly anticipated by the “Tangled” fandom. Rapunzel finally achieves her dream of leaving the tower, but the experience is different because Flynn is by her side. As he chases his dreams, being with Rapunzel makes him realize that she is where he truly belongs. Both characters come to the conclusion that having each other is all they need in life.
Milo Manheim’s extensive expertise will undoubtedly anchor this film, and based on what we’ve seen, it could be one of his best performances to date.
