I never saw Hunchback of Notre Dame as a child. I know, for such a huge disney fan that almost seems blasphemous. In fact it wasn't until a couple years ago that I decided to spend a summer afternoon netflix binge watching the Disney Movie. Now why had I never watched it before you may ask? Truthfully because I had never heard much about it. Disney princess movies and blockbusters such as The Lion King and more recent movies like Inside Out always snagged the attention. I quickly discovered that the movie didn't get the praise it deserved, for every age group.

1. The Animation

Animators spent months studying landmarks in Paris, such as the Cathedral at Notre Dame, and it paid off in the final product. Not only are the characters beautifully animated, but the scenery is breath takingly stunning

2. The Songs

Not only are the songs beautifully scored, but some contain darker themes than any other classic Disney movie of its time

3. The Author

A personal bonus for me is that the novel the movie was based on was written by Victor Hugo, also known for writing the novel Les Miserables

4. The Villain

Let's face it, Judge Claude Frollo is utterly terrifying. So caught up in wanting to do what's right for himself, his vision is clouded and he becomes obsessed with committing genocide of an entire race........in a children's movie

5. The Moral of the Story

Many people praised Frozen for not having a romance centered plot, but this is a quality shared with Hunchback. Instead, the moral is acceptance, loving people for who they are, and realizing that who you are on the outside doesn't make you a monster.

6. Esmeralda

While not an official Disney princess, Esmeralda portrays morals far above that of her royal sisters. Her main song of the film is a plea with God to help the outcasts, while those in the church around her plead for fame or fortune. Also, while Esmeralda does end up with a romance by the end of the movie, this doesn't define her as she spends most of the movie fighting for justice and equality of all those who are different.

Hopefully the next time you decide you want to have a Disney movie marathon, you'll at least consider The Hunchback of Notre Dame. I'm sure you'll find it worth your time, not only for the reasons above, but for many more.