For 90s kids, Disney Channel Original Movies (DCOMs) were more than just fun to watch, they sometimes informed us about real issues or inspired us. And a trip down memory lane reminds us of how great these movies were at talking about hard or inspiring topics in a "kid" way. Here's my list of the top 10 "realest" Disney Channel Movies:
1. "The Color of Friendship" (2000)
What better way to start the list than with "The Color of Friendship?" A DCOM set in 1977 about a white exchange student from apartheid South Africa, who is surprised to find that her American host family is black, and a black student who is surprised to find that her South African exchange student is white. Despite the tension caused by their racial and cultural differences, the two girls gradually find common ground and become like sisters.
2. "Going To The Mat" (2004)
"Going To The Mat" is a 2004 DCOM about Jace, a new student who struggles with fitting in not because he's blind, but because his peers think he is a "jerk." He joins his high school wrestling team in an attempt to make friends. And by the end of the season, his teammates don't even acknowledge his blindness during an interview because they don't see him as any different or less capable. Way to go Disney.
3. "Motocrossed" (2001)
In "Motorcrossed," Andi pretends to be her injured brother in order to race for him. And she proves that girls can not only keep up with the boys, but beat 'em too.
4. "Double Teamed!" (2002)
In "Double Teamed!" twin sisters Heather and Heidi Burge juggle school and sports in high school to become WNBA players. Hard work pays off, kids.
5. "Gotta Kick It Up!" (2002)
Si se puede! Si se puede! Yes we can! These girls work tirelessly for their team and friendships, and, as a result, end up slaying life on and off the court.
6. "Cadet Kelly" (2002)
When Kelly Collins (Hilary Duff) is sent to military school, she not only rises to the everyday challenges of the school, but uses her newfound skills to save her dad's life. Talk about girl power!
7. "Tiger Cruise" (2004)
Maddie's (Hayden Panettiere's) dad is in the Navy, and at first when she goes to visit him on his naval ship, she only desires for him to come home. However, through the course of the cruise, which occurs during 9/11, Maddie begins to appreciate her dad's sacrifice in a new way.
8. "Tru Confessions" (2002)
In "Tru Confessions" a girl who is unhappy with her life documents her Autistic brother for a video contest, and through the lens of a camera, begins to see and appreciate her life in a new light.
9. "A Ring of Endless Light" (2002)
In "A Ring of Endless Light" three teenagers work to "expose the illegal use of drift nets" during their summer break and save a dolphin. What are you doing this summer?
10. "Zenon: Girl of the 21st Century" (2002)
Although this movie is the "outlier" of the list, Zenon can teach us a lot. Even when space station authorities and her own parents don't believe her, Zenon works with friends to save her home in space by stopping a computer crash that could hurt them all. She stands up for the right thing even when her family doesn't support her. Totally stellar.
Not all DCOMs are created equally, but these throwback DCOMs stand out because of the messages they relay. Thanks for entertaining and stretching our young minds Disney.
