Disney movies are pretty incredible, clearly. And yes, deep down, we all want to be Disney Princesses. The endless quizzes online are proof of this clearly. But, what about the non-Disney animated movies from our childhood? Do they really get no play? Here's a list of six Non-Disney films that definitely rocked your childhood and had you yearning to be more than just a princess.
1. "Anastasia" (1997).
This was hands down one of my favorite animated films growing up. Mostly because I had a super big crush on Dimitri and that scene outside of the Opera blew my tiny mind. It definitely didn't hurt that Anastasia was super badass and independent. Not only did it have killer musical numbers but Aaliyah was on the soundtrack so, I mean, win win.
2. "An American Tail" (1986).
I honestly couldn't choose between this and its sequel "Fievel Goes West" so let's just make this count for both films. Really though, the first film is what will really get your heart strings tugging. Looking back on the film now, it's actually an incredibly telling story of the plight on immigrants and struggles involving immigration in America. Got to love a heavy underlying theme!
3. "Page Master" (1994).
I usually have a hard time finding people who even remember this classic 90s live-action/animated film but there was no way it was staying off the list. Not only did it have an INCREDIBLE cast: Macaulay Culkin, Leonard Nimoy, Patrick Stewart, Whoopi Goldberg and Christopher Lloyd (to name a few) but it was also all about books! It was amazing as a kid to see a film that totally promoted literacy and the importance of reading.
4. "All Dogs Go to Heaven" (1989).
You definitely can't deny that this film had you hugging your dog like a canine crime boss was waiting to strike on your next walk around the block. I think of every animated movie I watched as kid, this one gave me the most hope and understanding of why dog's are a (wo)man's best friend.
5. "FernGully" (1992).
Another stellar voice cast behind FernGully including my all time favorite, Tim Curry, Robin Williams and Christian Slater (you know, back when he was coveted by Hollywood.) Almost every girl I knew used to say her favorite movie was tied between this and "The Swan Princess", but my chips are on FernGully. Magical forest, adorable fairy features and the ability to fly? Sign me up.
6. "The Land Before Time" (1988).
Last, but certainly not least, is one of the greatest animated movies ever made, "The Land Before Time". Littlefoot's journey to find the Great Valley after losing his mama a la "Bambi" is easily one of the most heart-wrenching and inspiring animated tales ever told. "The Land Before Time" tackles grief, friendships, self-discovery and the quest for a better world without missing a beat. I think its safe to say this VHS was rewound A LOT in my house growing up.
There you have it, proof that Disney wasn't the only production house that made your childhood exponentially better. I hope I'm not the only one thankful for these gems!
