It's still Women's History Month, and I figured it was time to pay Disney heroines their respect. Disney has long been known for its diverse cast of heroines throughout the years and the influence these women have had on those who watch its movies. However, while it's great that some girls dream of being an Ariel, or a Cinderella, or an Elsa, I think there are some hidden, underrated gems in the Disney heroine list that deserve attention as well. Here is my list of the five most underrated Disney heroines:
5. Chicha ("The Emperor's New Groove")
I loved watching "The Emperor's New Groove" as a kid. While the entire cast was great, Chicha is one of those underrated Disney heroines. I couldn't personally relate, but when I saw Chicha onscreen, I saw my own mom. Chicha was calm, cool, and had a strong sense of justice. Chicha could do it all -- maker of ponchos and master of sass. And did I mention that she was also pregnant with her third child?
4. Kida ("Atlantis: The Lost Empire")
I know a lot of people hated this movie (I was not one of those people), but you cannot deny the awesomeness that is Kidagakash "Kida" Nedakh, whose name is almost as complex as her personality. Kida was the smart, playful, and powerful princess of the lost city of Atlantis. Beautiful as well as diplomatic, Kida led with an open mind and heart -- but that isn't to say that she was naive.
3. Captain Amelia ("Treasure Planet")
Captain Amelia is my favorite character from "Treasure Planet."She was classy, resourceful, and sharp-witted. The vivacious captain didn't take crap from anyone -- be it ruthless pirates or her own crew. Needless to say, homegirl was unapologetically fierce, and her character was seriously underrated.
2. Nani ("Lilo and Stitch")
When I watched "Lilo and Stitch" growing up, the character I always related to, as the oldest of three girls in my own family, was Nani. After the death of their parents, Nani stepped up to take care of both her and her younger sister, Lilo. She was smart, funny, and brave, and she had a rare and different kind of beauty that is not typically seen in most Disney heroines. And on top of all that, she had a completely relatable relationship with her sister.
1. Esmeralda ("The Hunchback of Notre Dame")
I'm going to be honest -- I am one of those people who consider Esmeralda a Disney princess, and there's nothing you can say that will change my mind about it. "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" is my all-time favorite Disney movie, and part of that credit is due to the beautiful gypsy Esmeralda. Esmeralda is outspoken, righteous, and caring -- the first human character to show the deformed Quasimodo any kindness. She's a character that others should aspire to emulate.
There are definitely more Disney heroines who are just as underrated as these beauties. Didn't see one of your faves? Comment with their name and movie below!