Everyone loves Disney, and if they say they don’t, they’re lying. Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve loved Disney movies so I’ve decided to share what, in my opinion, are the top 10 Disney movies.
10. Aladdin, Tarzan and The Lion King
It’s almost impossible to pick a favorite Disney movie because they’re all so magical, but in the case of number ten, I had to settle on these three for a very specific reason. When I was little and had first moved out to Colorado, my mom and I used to fly back to Georgia to visit my grandparents frequently. They had a little VCR and tapes of these three movies and a bunch of other tapes that were children’s shows I’d outgrown. Now, at this point, my tiny self couldn’t figure out how to switch the inputs on the TV to watch cable, and being the stubborn child I am, I never asked for anyone to help me. So, I watched these three movies. On repeat. This went on for years until I figured out how the inputs worked. You would think that I would have gotten sick of these films, but they still remain some of my favorite classics, thus why the come in at number 10.
9. Homeward Bound
Not a super popular film, but still one of the best in my childhood. I would sit all the time and watch this movie with my mom because the adventures of Chance, Shadow and Sassy would both warm our hearts and make us laugh. Nothing would fill my little heart up more with joy than Shadow triumphantly returning home after everyone assumed him dead. Also, I related to Sassy on a spiritual level. I haven’t seen this movie in years, but I hope to watch it again soon as I loved it so much when I was young.
8. Princess and the Frog
This movie is one of my favorites because I love the fact that there is a promotion of an independent woman, as well as the multiple lessons of learning how to work to reach your goals. Of course the sappy romance with Naveen and Tiana was a plus along with all the lovable characters like Lewis and Ray. Not to mention the catchy, jazzy soundtrack.
7. The Brave Little Toaster
This movie/ set of movies was my jam (no pun intended) when I was growing up. I remember loving watching this one too on repeat and crying when Kirby came unplugged. This classic also teaches great lessons about teamwork and independence. Even though I haven’t see the other variations, like The Brave Little Toaster Goes to Mars, they’re definitely on my list.
6. A Bug’s Life
Also another classic in my childhood, (if you haven’t caught onto the theme yet), was Bug’s Life. This was something that I used to consider a good “Saturday movie” to just watch in the early afternoon. I like the message that it’s okay to be different and the slightly more subtle theme of standing up to oppressive authority. Also, as I’ve aged, there’s several adult jokes and overall more enjoyable scenes.
5. Emperor's New Groove
Get into the groove because even though the plot of this movie almost makes no sense, it’s full of laughs, interesting animation, and of course the most hilarious villain in Disney history. Also, as a history nerd, I can’t help but love Disney’s humorous twist on the Incan civilization. And who couldn’t love the beautiful quotes that come out of the movie? Such as “Pull the lever Kronk! Wrong leveeeeerrrrr!” and “You threw off my groove!”
4. Moana
Disney’s most recent feature is one of the most beautiful films I’ve ever seen. The story and animation are beautiful not to mention the kick ass soundtrack composed in part by the amazing Lin Manuel-Miranda. (For those who don’t know, he’s the creator of the broadway hit, Hamilton, and also played Hamilton in the original broadway cast). For someone who has only seen the movie once, I still know the entire soundtrack by heart and will drop everything to sing along. See the line where the sky meets the sea, it calls me…
3. Tangled
Get ready for a rant because Tangled is arguably the best Disney movie ever created. That being said, you’ll wonder why this isn’t number one on the list. Well, you’ll see. But, Tangled is an amazing movie for the part that there is a true romance that is so pure and sweet it’s hard to ignore. Rapunzel and Eugene are literally relationship goals with their pet names, and general appreciation and understanding of each other. Not to mention the lovable side characters like Maximus and Pascal. (Also, the new Disney channel show has intensified my love of this movie because it is just perfect and plays off the movie amazingly).
2. Alice in Wonderland
Alice in Wonderland comes in at number two for multiple reasons. Now, when I discuss this movie, I include both the original animation and the more recent live action with Johnny Depp. I’ve always loved the absurdness of the story and Alice’s adventures. Even more iconic is the way it’s impacted the culture of teenagers today. All you have to do is walk into a hot topic and there’s Alice in Wonderland stuff everywhere.
1. Winnie the Pooh
Coming in at #1 is my absolute favorite and all time classic, Winnie the Pooh. I’m not sure why, but Winnie the Pooh just struck a chord somewhere in my heart as a child and I’ve loved it ever since. It’s got lots of lovable characters, like Piglet, Eeyore, Tigger and of course, Pooh Bear himself. I hold Winnie the Pooh at number one because it’s a classic for everyone and has a really cute story line-- not to mention a ton of other spin-off movies other than the original classic. I love Pooh Bear so much, I cried when I met him at Disney world this past summer, (I promise I’m an adult).
There are a lot of movies that I love that didn't make this list so perhaps I'll make a part two in the future. It’s hard to choose, but anyone can agree there’s no such thing as a bad Disney movie.
So now I ask, what Disney movie is your favorite?
