Unless you’ve been living under a rock, I’m sure you have seen every single Disney movie under the sun, just as I have. I don’t know about you, but over the years, I stopped watching most of the newer films (Besides a few exceptions, of course). For some reason, they just aren’t as memorable as the older classics.
Why is this?
I’ve tried to develop a reasonable explanation, because any time someone asks why I love old Disney movies so much, I tend to blank. After stopping to think for a while, I’ve found a few reasons why Disney movies from the 70’s through the 90’s exceed most today.
1. Comical
If I had to choose at least one humorous Disney movie, it would be Mulan. I can’t help but laugh every time I see her attempt to hock a loogie. Also, who doesn’t enjoy Mushu?
“Dragon, not lizard. I don’t do that tongue thing.”
To finalize how spectacular this movie is, I love that she works harder than anyone. Mulan emulates the strength, bravery, and determination of a “man,” and shows us that females can do it the same, if not better.
2. Cute
Okay, seriously? Who doesn’t love the Fox and the Hound? It’s a little cheesy, I’ll admit, and some parts of the film are a bit dry, but it's adorable. You can’t help but think, “Awww,” whenever you see Copper and Tod become friends.
3. Heart-wrenching
Everyone probably hates me right now for even posting such a depressing photo, but you know it’s true. When Mufasa passes away in the Lion King, it just kills us every single time we watch it. To this day, I cringe when Simba crawls under his dad’s arm.
4. Great storyline
While most older Disney movies have a great storyline, I think we all can agree on Hercules. No, it doesn’t follow the traditional, Greek plot, however, the Disney version is by far my favorite. First of all, I think it’s genius that Hercules is portrayed as this nice, modest guy who "doesn’t know his own strength." It makes him lovable to begin with.
I also enjoy the clever making of the story from beginning to end. Hercules falls to earth, lives with humans, and then ventures out on a quest to find his biological family, while trying to stray from the manipulative hands of Hades. If you haven’t seen it, I recommend you watch it.
5. Character attachment
Each of us has a favorite Disney character for different reasons, and our love for the character keeps us coming back for more. Personally, I empathize with Quasimodo. Not because I think I’m ugly, but because it’s difficult to have a decent self-esteem these days.
I feel like all of us can relate to how worthless and lonely he feels at times. But once he meets the beautiful Esmerelda, and realizes that his heart matters most, he is no longer so depressed. We could all use some self-esteem boosters these days, and that movie always helps to brighten my mood.
6. Excellent villains
101 Dalmatians is not only one of my favorite movies of all time, but I love how psychotic Cruella Deville is. She is actually terrifying, and not in a cartoonish, funny sort of way. Think about it! Cruella would not be allowed in a children’s film these days. She makes fur coats out of puppies, slaps and bullies everyone, and let’s not forget about her smoking habit.
7. Remembering the past
Sure, all six of these reasons can relate to newer Disney films as well, but I think this final, and seventh reason conquers all. Disney movies remind me of my childhood, but there’s a few old-timers that take me back to specific moments.
I remember singing along to Oliver and Company (That movie has an awesome soundtrack, by the way!) and the Little Mermaid (Who didn’t sing along with Ariel?).
I also remember when my dad would make me a bagel with cream cheese while I watched Robin Hood as my "morning cartoon." Older Disney movies exceed the new because they remind us of when we were kids. That’s why we look forward to watching them over and over again.
