I have always loved Disney. Whenever a new movie trailer comes out—especially the animated ones—I act like a little girl and I’m 22 years old. I have never viewed them as something ‘only for kids.’ Of course, they are wonderful for our younger generations, but they still hold great meaning for us adults as well. They remind us of our youth and they bring joy to everyone who watches them. Most importantly: they are full of morals, life lessons, and meaningful messages. A few of these include:
1. "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" (1937)
As the first ever full-length animated movie, this is the ultimate classic. Moreover, it has a great life lesson. Snow White is such a compassionate individual and while she has many obstacles to overcome—namely the Evil Queen trying to kill her—she never once losses her kindness and compassion. This message is a great one for all of our younger generations, as well as a nice reminder to us adults. Even though we live in a tough world full of judgement and hate, we should never let our kindness and compassion falter.
2. "Dumbo" (1941)
"Dumbo" is one amazing movie that usually falls through the cracks. Nonetheless, it portrays one of the greatest messages of all. Dumbo is born with large ears—larger than that of every other elephant. This leads to a lot of torment and bullying. However, he never lets it get to him and he becomes one amazing act in the circus—a flying elephant. What we all can learn from this is that our differences make us unique. Similarly, we should never judge someone different than us because you never know what that difference might mean.
3. "Cinderella" (1950)
"Cinderella" is another great classic. Cinderella is forced to be a maid in her own home, being snubbed by her stepmother and stepsisters. However, she never lets such cruelty ruin her good character and she eventually has a happy ending. This teaches our younger generations that no matter how people treat them, they should never let it get them down. Similarly, it shows us all that being cruel and bullying others is never a good thing—it is hurtful and usually makes the one doing the bullying look bad.
4. "The Little Mermaid" (1989)
"The Little Mermaid" is another great princess movie. Ariel is a very determined mermaid. She falls for a human and does everything in her power to be with him. This is a nice message for kids and adults alike. It teaches everyone that following your heart is the best way to go. It also shows us that if we want something bad enough, nothing is impossible.
5. "Beauty and the Beast" (1991)
Another favorite princess movie is "Beauty and the Beast." Belle is held prisoner in the Beast’s castle, though with time, they fall in love. Such message is a good one. It teaches us to never judge a book by its cover—as the beast happens to be a prince. Similarly, that love brings out the best in people, which can be seen with the Beast going from bitter and uncaring to sweet and compassionate.
6. "Aladdin" (1992)
In "Aladdin," a homeless boy must survive the streets of Agrabah. Here, he finds a magical lamp and is granted three wishes and falls in love with the princess. The message of this movie may be a little difficult to spot as it isn’t clearly shown. However, it is there and it teaches us that compassion is something that the world needs more of. This can be seen in Aladdin’s character; even though he is homeless, he is still self-sacrificing and caring towards others. Similarly, it shows that honesty is the best policy.
7. "The Lion King (1994)
In "The Lion King," Simba runs away from his pride because he feels responsible for his father’s death. This movie actually gives a great message to younger viewers, as well as reminds adults of an important lesson. The moral of this story is that you can never run away from who you are and that you must take responsibility for your actions. Even though Simba really isn’t responsible for his father’s death, his actions lead to catastrophe for the pride he abandons. Similarly, it reminds us—with Timon and Pumbaa—that we cannot forget to take time and have fun.
8. "Pocahontas" (1995)
This movie is a great historical piece, even if it is not all that accurate to reality. Pocahontas fights for peace between Native Americans and that of the new arrivals. This message is so important. It teaches us that violence is not the answer. It shows us that even though we are of different race, ethnicity and origin, we are still similar in many ways. We should not judge each other by our differences, but should learn from them.
9. "Mulan" (1998)
"Mulan" is a great story on women equality. It teaches us all that everyone is equal in strength, passion and determination. Mulan shows women that we can do anything if we put our minds to it. Similarly, she proves to men that strong-willed women are not to be something to detest but something to celebrate and embrace.
10. "Lilo & Stitch" (2002)
"Lilo & Stitch" is a great family movie. Noni, Lilo and Stitch teach everyone that family is one of the most important aspects of life. They show us that family comes in many shapes and sizes. Similarly, they give us confidence that even through the worst of challenges, family will endure.
11. "Wall-E" (2008)
"Wall-E" portrays a wonderful message. This little robot manages to fall in love and inadvertently beats the odds to bring humanity back to Earth. This movie teaches us the importance of humanity and that our dependence on technology has dire consequences. It also shows us that persistence pays off and that compassion mixed with determination is everything.
12. "The Princess and the Frog" (2009)
This story is a great message of love in all shapes and sizes. It teaches us that looks do not matter. It shows us that what is on the inside is what counts. Similarly, it shows us that people can change—as seen by both main characters.
13. "Tangled" (2010)
"Tangled" is another epic story. Rapunzel shows us that we should always go after our dreams. Similarly, this movie shows us that it is more about the journey than the destination. This can be seen in the love that develops between Rapunzel and Flynn, as well as the friendships both characters develop along the way.
14. "Brave" (2012)
Another great story with a great message is that of "Brave." Merida is a very determined character who has a troubled relationship with her mother, Elinor. When Elinor tries to force Merida into an arranged marriage, a wonderful journey ensues. This story illustrates that courage in following your heart is important. Similarly, you must be careful in what you wish for. Moreover, change is constant and necessary in an ever changing world.
15. "Frozen" (2013)
Finally, we have the movie "Frozen." This movie offers excellent messages. Elsa and Anna’s journeys both represent great examples of self-discovery, change and determination. They both teach us that family is important. Similarly, that women do not need a man to save them—true love comes in many forms. They show us that we shouldn’t be anyone but ourselves and that we should accept our unique talents and never deny them. Moreover, they illustrate that love can concur all.
