*Minor Spoilers Ahead*
Do not judge me, okay? I am a hopeless romantic. There is just something about watching two characters on the big screen crash into each other’s lives and discover they are soulmates that fulfills my heart’s desires. Growing up, I possessed a vast collection of animated movies and watched likewise television programs religiously. Now that I am older, I can appreciate the admirable aspects of these fictional relationships. Here are 6 animated couples with the greatest love stories:
1. Aladdin and Princess Jasmine - "Aladdin"
Aladdin is definitely in the top three of the greatest Disney movies ever created. I do not care what anybody says. The infamous exchange between Aladdin (disguised as Prince Ali) and Jasmine on her balcony still gives me chills. Seriously, who knew riding on a magic carpet against gorgeous blue scenery and singing about “a whole new world” could be so romantic?
2. Shrek and Fiona - "Shrek"
It is an unconventional love story, and that is why I cherish it. As an ogre, Shrek at first believes he is unworthy of a princess’s affection, but he grows to love Fiona, and he fights for her. When outside forces threaten their relationship, Shrek and Fiona always find their way back to one another. Shrek shows Fiona that her curse is nothing to be ashamed of, and Fiona shows Shrek that she loves him as the ogre he is. *Sniff sniff* It is true love!
3. Mr. Incredible and Elastigirl - "The Incredibles"
Elastigirl is a ride-or-die. When her husband Mr. Incredible entangles himself in trouble, she defends him and her family with no hesitation. This power couple kicks the bad guys’ butts and foils the evil plans in matching custom-made jumpsuits alongside their equally powerful children. It is that superhero love.
4. Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen - "The Princess and the Frog"
In my humble opinion, The Princess and the Frog comprises the best Disney love story. Viewers have the chance to watch Tiana and Naveen fall for one another. Their union is not the love-at-first-sight cliché that we usually stomach in fairytales. As the two frogs hop through the murky waters of the Louisiana bayou, their characters change, for they put their desires aside and discover what they need, and that is each other. I watched the feelings between them transform from tolerance to unconditional love. It does not get any better than that.
5. Angie and Oscar - "Shark Tale"
Want to know why I love Angie and Oscar? Their relationship is built on the foundation of a beautiful friendship. Albeit, Angie’s love for Oscar goes unrealized for the majority of their fish adventures. However, she calls Oscar out on his ridiculousness and informs him that she loves him regardless of his wealth or social status. He learns to appreciate her loyalty and uncovers the romantic feelings he harbors for her as well. I mean, can you see the adorableness? Please do not tell me it is just me.
6. Rapunzel and Flynn Rider - "Tangled"
Like Tiana and Naveen’s love story, Rapunzel and Flynn Rider embark on a great adventure and discover they are made for one another. From the moment Rapunzel heals Flynn’s injured hand with her magic hair, I saw the sparks flying between them. He helps her fulfill her lifelong dream and she encourages him to find one. He tells her his real name. She hits him with a frying pan! Although the prospect of a handsome guy climbing into my tower to escape from the authorities is highly unlikely, I still hold onto the hope that it will happen one day.
7. Simba and Nala - "The Lion King"
The list would be an abomination if I did not include these two famous lions. Simba and canoodling across the African plains amidst Elton John’s “Can You Feel the Love Tonight?” remains a favorite love scene. Ever since they were cubs, they were cute together. Heck, even Zazu senses their imminent relationship. It goes without saying that Simba and Nala are EVERYTHING. You can argue with me all you want.
8. Homer and Marge Simpson - "The Simpsons"
The longevity of Homer and Marge Simpson’s relationship says it all. After over 600 episodes and 28 seasons, this yellow couple is still going strong. His ridiculous shenanigans aside, Homer truly cares for Marge. He only wants to show her his best self, and he goes to extremes to show her how much he loves her. Marge manages to forgive Homer for his past transgressions, and she loves him for who he truly is.
I can acknowledge the term “relationship goals” is severely overplayed, but when I watch these programs, I cannot help but appreciate the way the characters love and respect one another. Yes, it may be all fairytales, but the timeless love stories make me happy.
