Disney movies have captured the hearts of people worldwide for nearly a century. From Snow White to Frozen, these films create magical experiences for all ages.
Disney’s film library includes classics like The Lion King and Beauty and the Beast, modern hits like Frozen and Moana, and Pixar favorites like Toy Story and Finding Nemo. Each movie tells a unique story through animation, music, and memorable characters that stay with us.
This article reviews 60 of Disney’s finest films. Explore animated classics, Pixar adventures, and modern favorites that define Disney’s legacy in cinema.
Top 10 Evergreen Disney Movies to Watch
These ten movies represent Disney’s most beloved and successful films, combining timeless stories with unforgettable music and animation.
| Movie | Release Year | Genre |
|---|---|---|
| Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs | 1937 | Fantasy, Musical |
| The Lion King | 1994 | Adventure, Drama |
| Beauty and the Beast | 1991 | Romance, Musical |
| Aladdin | 1992 | Adventure, Comedy |
| Cinderella | 1950 | Fantasy, Romance |
| Frozen | 2013 | Fantasy, Musical |
| Toy Story | 1995 | Adventure, Comedy |
| Mulan | 1998 | Action, Adventure |
| Peter Pan | 1953 | Fantasy, Adventure |
| The Jungle Book | 1967 | Adventure, Musical |
These represent our top 10 picks, but Disney’s magic extends far beyond this list. The following 60 movies showcase the full range of Disney’s storytelling power.
Most of these beloved films are available on Disney+, Disney’s streaming platform, and new viewers can explore these classics with a Disney Plus Free Trial.
1. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)
Snow White, a kind and beautiful princess, wins the hearts of everyone except her jealous stepmother, the Queen. To escape danger, she finds refuge with seven lovable dwarfs in the forest.
When the Queen tricks Snow White with a poisoned apple, only true love’s magical kiss can break the curse. This timeless story celebrates friendship, bravery, and the power of love.
2. Pinocchio (1940)
Pinocchio is an animated family movie that also has music and fantasy. It’s about a wooden puppet who wants to become a real boy. The movie lasts 1 hour and 27 minutes.
The story follows Pinocchio as he learns to be brave and honest with the help of Jiminy Cricket. The voice cast includes Mel Blanc, Dickie Jones, and Evelyn Venable, who bring the characters to life.
3. Fantasia (1940)
Fantasia is a family-friendly animated movie that combines beautiful music with colorful pictures. It was released in 1941 and is loved by people of all ages.
The film shows famous classical music pieces with stunning animations. Walt Disney and conductor Leopold Stokowski helped create this special movie.
4. Dumbo (1941)
Dumbo is a sweet animated family movie from 1941 about a baby elephant with very big ears. With help from his friend Timothy the mouse, Dumbo learns to use his ears to fly.
The story illustrates how being different can be a source of specialness. The voice cast includes Sterling Holloway and Verna Felton. Additionally, while enjoying this and many other classics, students can take advantage of the Disney Plus Discount to save money.
5. Bambi (1942)
Bambi is a family-friendly animated movie about a young deer named Bambi exploring the forest with his friends, Thumper and Flower. They enjoy fun adventures while learning about the world around them.
With guidance from Friend Owl, Bambi learns important lessons about life, love, and loss. The voices of Fred Shields and others bring the forest characters to life.
6. Cinderella (1950)
Disney’s return to fairy tales after World War II earned $263 million worldwide. Cinderella received three Academy Award nominations and saved Disney’s animation studio from financial trouble.
A young woman finds love with a prince despite her cruel stepfamily. The film features the iconic “Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo” song and a magical transformation scene.
7. Alice in Wonderland (1951)
Alice follows a White Rabbit into a strange, magical world full of surprises. As she explores, she meets wild characters, including the Mad Hatter, the Cheshire Cat, and the Queen of Hearts.
This animated adventure is full of color, fun, and fantasy. With voices like Kathryn Beaumont and Sterling Holloway, the film brings Lewis Carroll’s classic story to life for all ages.
8. Peter Pan (1953)
Peter Pan takes Wendy and her brothers on a magical trip to Neverland, where they meet Tinker Bell, the Lost Boys and face off against the sneaky Captain Hook.
This animated fantasy is full of fun, flight, and music. With Bobby Driscoll as Peter and Kathryn Beaumont as Wendy, the film brings a timeless adventure to life for families everywhere.
9. Lady and the Tramp (1955)
Lady, a gentle cocker spaniel, meets Tramp, a street-smart mutt. Their friendship grows as they face challenges, including sneaky cats and a trip to the pound, all while discovering true love.
This romantic family animation is filled with charm, humor, and memorable songs. Featuring voices like Barbara Luddy and Larry Roberts, it captures one of Disney’s most heartfelt and classic love stories.
10. Sleeping Beauty (1959)
Princess Aurora is cursed by the evil fairy Maleficent to fall into a deep sleep on her 16th birthday. Only a brave prince and true love’s kiss can break the spell.
This classic animated fantasy blends adventure, magic, and romance. Featuring voices like Mary Costa and Eleanor Audley, it tells a timeless story with stunning visuals and unforgettable characters, such as the Good Fairies.
11. 101 Dalmatians (1961)
When villainous Cruella de Vil kidnaps Pongo and Perdita’s Dalmatian puppies, the brave dog parents go on an exciting adventure to save them, joined by other helpful animals along the way.
This animated family film features heartwarming moments, action, and humor. With a strong cast including Rod Taylor and Betty Lou Gerson, it remains a fun, timeless Disney classic for all ages.
12. The Jungle Book (1967)
Mowgli, a young boy raised in the jungle, sets out on an adventurous journey with Bagheera the Panther and Baloo the bear, learning life’s lessons and songs along the way.
This animated family musical features lovable characters, catchy tunes like “The Bare Necessities,” and memorable voices, including those of Phil Harris and Louis Prima. It’s a fun tale about friendship and courage.
13. The Fox and the Hound (1981)
Tod the fox and Copper the hound become unlikely best friends as young animals. Their bond is tested as they grow up and face the roles life expects them to play.
This animated drama mixes adventure, fun, and heartfelt moments. With voices like Mickey Rooney and Kurt Russell, it’s a touching story about friendship, loyalty, and the challenges of growing up.
14. The Great Mouse Detective (1986)
The Great Mouse Detective is an animated adventure set in Victorian London. A young mouse asks Detective Basil of Baker Street to help find her kidnapped toymaker father.
Basil discovers a plot against the Crown while solving the case. The movie features exciting mystery, clever detective work, and memorable characters voiced by Barrie Ingham and Vincent Price.
15. Oliver & Company (1988)
Oliver, a lovable orphan kitten, finds himself on the streets of New York City, joining a group of street-smart dogs. Together, they navigate adventures while searching for a place to call home.
The movie combines vibrant city life with heartwarming friendships and catchy songs. Oliver’s journey highlights loyalty, courage, and the meaning of family beyond blood ties.
16. The Little Mermaid (1989)
Ariel, a curious and adventurous mermaid princess, longs to live on land among humans. She makes a daring deal with Ursula, the sea witch, risking everything for love and a chance at a new life.
This classic features unforgettable songs and stunning underwater animation. It celebrates the pursuit of dreams, bravery, and discovering one’s true voice in a vast world.
17. Beauty and the Beast (1991)
Belle, an intelligent and independent young woman, becomes a prisoner in a mysterious castle ruled by a Beast. Through kindness and courage, she helps break the Beast’s curse, discovering love in unexpected places.
With iconic songs and breathtaking animation, the film explores themes of acceptance, inner beauty, and the transformative power of love and friendship. Its enchanting story and memorable characters have made it a beloved classic worldwide.
18. Aladdin (1992)
Aladdin, a street-smart young man, discovers a magical lamp and befriends the hilarious Genie inside. Using his wishes, he seeks to win Princess Jasmine’s heart and thwart the evil sorcerer Jafar.
Set in an exotic Arabian world, the film combines adventure, humor, and memorable songs while exploring themes of identity, freedom, and staying true to oneself. Its timeless story and vibrant characters continue to captivate audiences of all ages.
19. The Lion King (1994)
Simba, a young lion prince, faces tragedy and exile after his father’s death. With guidance from friends, he learns to embrace his destiny and reclaim his rightful place as king of the Pride Lands.
A sweeping epic with powerful music and stunning animation, the film explores themes of responsibility, courage, and the circle of life, resonating deeply with audiences worldwide.
20. Pocahontas (1995)
Pocahontas, a brave Native American woman, forms a bond with English settler John Smith amid colonial tensions. Her wisdom and respect for nature inspire peace between their cultures.
The film showcases breathtaking landscapes and powerful songs, emphasizing harmony with nature, bravery, and the importance of understanding and respecting different worlds.
21. The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996)
Quasimodo, the kind-hearted bell-ringer of Notre Dame, lives in isolation until he befriends the spirited Esmeralda. Together, they face the tyranny of Judge Frollo and stand for justice and acceptance.
This darker Disney classic blends rich music and emotional storytelling, exploring themes of inner beauty, courage, and fighting oppression in a medieval Parisian setting.
22. Hercules (1997)
Hercules, the son of the gods, must prove himself a true hero on Earth. With help from his friends, he battles mythological villains and learns that true heroism comes from heart and courage.
Filled with humor, catchy songs, and vibrant animation, the film celebrates bravery, friendship, and finding one’s place in the world beyond strength alone, inspiring audiences to value inner courage.
23. Mulan (1998)
Mulan disguises herself as a man to join the army in place of her ailing father. She courageously fights to protect her country while challenging societal expectations and discovering her own strength.
This inspiring tale combines action, humor, and heart, emphasizing themes of honor, bravery, and breaking traditional gender roles for the greater good that encourage self-belief and perseverance.
24. Tarzan (1999)
Raised by gorillas in the jungle, Tarzan discovers his human origins when explorers arrive. Torn between two worlds, he learns to embrace his identity and protect his family and home.
With breathtaking animation and a soulful soundtrack by Phil Collins, the film explores themes of belonging, family, and the balance between nature and civilization.
25. Fantasia 2000 (1999)
Fantasia 2000 is a spectacular continuation of Disney’s groundbreaking original Fantasia. It blends classical music with innovative animation, creating vivid visual interpretations of timeless compositions.
Featuring segments like “Pines of Rome” and “Rhapsody in Blue,” the film celebrates the power of music and imagination to inspire wonder across generations.
26. The Emperor’s New Groove (2000)
Kuzco, a selfish emperor, is transformed into a llama by his ex-advisor, Yzma. With the help of kind-hearted Pacha, he embarks on a journey to reclaim his throne and learn humility.
This comedy features quirky characters, fast-paced humor, and memorable moments, emphasizing friendship, personal growth, and the importance of kindness over arrogance.
27. Atlantis: The Lost Empire (2001)
A young linguist, Milo Thatch, leads an expedition to discover the lost city of Atlantis. Along the way, they uncover ancient mysteries and face dangerous challenges to protect this hidden civilization.
The film combines action, adventure, and sci-fi elements with stunning visuals, celebrating curiosity, bravery, and the preservation of history and culture while reminding viewers of the value of exploration and the importance of protecting ancient wisdom.
28. Lilo & Stitch (2002)
Lilo, a lonely Hawaiian girl, adopts Stitch, a mischievous alien experiment. Their unlikely friendship helps both discover the meaning of family, belonging, and unconditional love.
It’s all about humor, heart, and island spirit. The film explores themes of acceptance, loyalty, and the power of the ‘ohana family that never abandons.
29. Brother Bear (2003)
After a tragic accident, Kenai is transformed into a bear. Through his journey with a young bear cub named Koda, he learns important lessons about empathy, brotherhood, and forgiveness.
Set in breathtaking wilderness, the film combines adventure and heartfelt storytelling, emphasizing respect for nature and the bonds that connect all living beings.
30. Bolt (2008)
Bolt, a dog who believes he has superpowers from his TV show, embarks on a real-life adventure to save his owner. Along the way, he discovers the true meaning of friendship and courage beyond fiction.
The film seamlessly blends humor and heart, exploring themes of loyalty, self-discovery, and the profound bond between pets and their owners through vibrant animation and engaging storytelling.
31. The Princess and the Frog (2009)
Tiana, a hardworking waitress in New Orleans, dreams of opening her own restaurant. When she kisses a frog prince, she’s transformed and navigates a magical adventure to reclaim her life and true love.
With jazz-inspired music and rich Southern culture, the film celebrates ambition, love, and the magic of believing in yourself against all odds. This movie lasts 1 hour and 37 minutes, which is a great one to watch.
32. Tangled (2010)
Rapunzel, a princess with magical long hair, escapes her tower for the first time with the help of charming thief Flynn Rider. Together, they embark on a journey of self-discovery, adventure, and love.
Filled with humor, catchy songs, and stunning animation, Tangled explores themes of freedom, courage, and following one’s heart despite the unknown, inspiring viewers to embrace new experiences.
33. Frozen (2013)
Elsa, a queen with magical ice powers, isolates herself to protect others while her sister Anna embarks on a daring quest to bring her back. Their bond shows the power of love and acceptance.
With iconic songs and breathtaking visuals, Frozen explores themes of family, self-acceptance, and overcoming fear to embrace one’s true self. It also highlights the strong bond between sisters and shows that love is the key to unlocking inner strength.
34. Big Hero 6 (2014)
Hiro, a young robotics prodigy, teams up with his inflatable robot Baymax and friends to form a high-tech superhero team. Together, they uncover a sinister plot while learning about friendship and healing.
This action-packed film blends heart and humor with great animation, celebrating innovation, teamwork, and the power of compassion. The story showcases Hiro’s growth as he learns to overcome loss and become a hero.
35. Zootopia (2016)
In a city where animals live like humans, rookie bunny cop Judy Hopps teams up with sly fox Nick Wilde to solve a mysterious case that challenges stereotypes and prejudices.
Zootopia combines clever storytelling with social commentary, highlighting themes of diversity, inclusion, and the courage to challenge biases for a better world
36. Moana (2016)
Moana, a daring Polynesian girl, sets sail on a heroic journey to save her island and discover her true destiny. Along the way, she teams up with demigod Maui and embraces her identity.
With breathtaking visuals and powerful songs, Moana celebrates bravery, culture, and the spirit of adventure and self-discovery. Moana’s journey is filled with fun, challenges, and memorable characters.
37. Ralph Breaks the Internet (2018)
Ralph and Vanellope venture into the vast world of the internet to save their game. Their adventure reveals new friendships and challenges, exploring the value of change and growing up.
This colorful sequel mixes humor and heart, tackling themes of friendship, identity, and adapting to life’s evolving paths. The movie is full of exciting moments and clever references to online culture.
38. Frozen 2 (2019)
Elsa and Anna journey beyond their kingdom to uncover the origins of Elsa’s powers and save their home. Along the way, they face new challenges that deepen their bond and reveal hidden truths.
With stunning animation and soulful music, Frozen 2 became one of the highest-grossing animated films of all time, earning over $1.45 billion worldwide. The film explores themes of growth, healing, and discovering one’s true purpose.
39. Raya and the Last Dragon (2021)
Raya, a fierce warrior princess, embarks on a quest to find the last dragon and unite her divided kingdom. Facing danger and betrayal, she discovers the power of trust and teamwork in restoring harmony.
The film highlights themes of bravery, forgiveness, and cultural unity, featuring stunning animation inspired by Southeast Asian cultures and an empowering female lead.
40. Encanto (2021)
The Madrigal family lives in a magical house in Colombia, where each member has a unique gift, except Mirabel. When the magic begins to fade, Mirabel embarks on a journey to save her family and discover her own worth.
Encanto celebrates family, self-discovery, and the strength found in embracing imperfections, wrapped in vibrant colors and catchy, heartfelt music.
41. Toy Story (1995)
Toy Story follows Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and other toys that come to life when humans aren’t around. Their friendship and loyalty are put to the test when new rivalries emerge and adventures unfold.
This groundbreaking film introduced audiences to a heartfelt story about friendship, identity, and acceptance, pioneering computer animation and storytelling in family entertainment.
42. A Bug’s Life (1998)
Flik, an inventive ant, rallies a group of misfit bugs to save his colony from greedy grasshoppers. Through creativity and teamwork, they challenge oppression and prove that even the smallest can be heroes.
A Bug’s Life combines humor and adventure, emphasizing themes of courage, innovation, and the power of community. With a runtime of approximately 1 hour 35 minutes, the film delivers a fun and inspiring story for all ages.
43. Monsters, Inc. (2001)
Monsters Mike and Sulley work at a factory, generating power by scaring children. Their lives change when they befriend a human girl, Boo, teaching them that laughter is more powerful than fear.
Monsters, Inc. blends heartwarming storytelling with creative world-building, celebrating friendship, empathy, and challenging stereotypes.
44. The Incredibles (2004)
A family of superheroes hides their powers to live an everyday life until danger calls them back into action. Together, they learn to embrace their unique strengths and protect the world.
The Incredibles blends exciting action with family life, showing how each member’s unique abilities matter. It celebrates working together, embracing differences, and the strength that comes from being united as a family.
45. Cars (2006)
Lightning McQueen, a hotshot race car, gets stranded in a small town and learns life’s lessons about friendship, humility, and community. His journey transforms him from a self-centered person to one who cares.
Cars is a vibrant story with memorable characters and themes about slowing down, valuing relationships, and personal growth. It teaches that success is about more than just winning races.
46. Ratatouille (2007)
Remy, a talented rat with a passion for cooking, teams up with a young kitchen worker to pursue his dream of becoming a great chef in Paris.
Ratatouille celebrates creativity, courage, and following your passion, showing that greatness can come from unexpected places. The film combines humor and heart with stunning visuals of Paris and the culinary world.
47. WALL-E (2008)
WALL-E is a small waste-collecting robot left to clean Earth after humans abandon it. His lonely routine changes when he meets Eve, a sleek robot sent to find signs of life.
This visually stunning film explores themes of environmental care, love, and hope, showing humanity’s impact and the power of connection through silent storytelling.
48. Brave (2012)
Merida, a skilled archer and Scottish princess, defies tradition to control her own fate. After a witch’s spell causes unintended consequences, she must repair her family bond.
Brave highlights courage, independence, and the power of understanding, enriched by stunning visuals inspired by Scottish folklore. The story combines adventure and emotion, showing Merida’s journey to change her destiny.
49. Inside Out (2015)
Inside Out dives into the emotions inside a young girl’s mind as she adjusts to a move to a new city. Joy, Sadness, and other emotions guide her through change and growth.
The film creatively explores mental health, emotional complexity, and self-acceptance with humor and heartfelt storytelling. Inside Out uses colorful characters and imaginative storytelling to bring emotions to life in a fun and meaningful way.
50. The Good Dinosaur (2015)
In an alternate world where dinosaurs never went extinct, Arlo, a young dinosaur, befriends a human boy while journeying to find his way home after a tragedy.
The movie explores bravery, friendship, and overcoming fears with beautiful animation capturing nature’s vastness and wonders. The story follows Arlo’s adventure-filled life with challenges, growth, and unexpected friendships.
51. Finding Dory (2016)
Dory, the forgetful blue tang fish, sets out to reunite with her long-lost family. Alongside friends, she learns about family, identity, and perseverance.
This heartwarming sequel expands on themes of memory, acceptance, and the importance of community, wrapped in vibrant underwater adventure. The film takes viewers on a colorful journey full of fun, friendship, and self-discovery.
52. Coco (2017)
Miguel, a young aspiring musician, embarks on a magical journey to the Land of the Dead to uncover his family’s history and follow his passion for music.
Coco celebrates Mexican culture, family traditions, and the power of remembrance with colorful visuals and soulful songs. The story beautifully blends music and emotion, showing the importance of family and following your dreams.
53. Onward (2020)
Set in a suburban fantasy world, two elf brothers embark on a quest to discover if magic still exists. Their journey tests their bond and courage as they seek to bring back their father.
Onward combines humor, heart, and adventure, focusing on family love, self-discovery, and the magic of togetherness. The film offers a heartfelt story about brotherhood and finding strength in each other.
54. Luca (2021)
Luca, a sea monster boy, experiences an unforgettable summer on the Italian Riviera with his best friend, Alberto. They discover friendship, acceptance, and the joy of embracing who they truly are.
Luca is a vibrant, heartwarming story about identity, adventure, and the magic of childhood wonder. The movie captures the excitement of new experiences and the importance of being true to yourself.
55. Toy Story 2 (1999)
When Woody is stolen by a toy collector, Buzz and his friends launch a daring rescue. Woody must decide between staying with his new admirers or returning to his beloved owner, Andy.
Toy Story 2 adds more heart and humor as it explores themes of loyalty, friendship, and choosing between comfort and the people who matter most. It shows how true belonging comes from meaningful connections.
56. Turning Red (2022)
Mei, a teenage girl in Toronto, struggles with adolescence and her family’s secret: whenever she gets excited, she turns into a giant red panda.
This fun and emotional story explores identity, family expectations, and the chaos of growing up with humor and heart. , showing how Mei learns to accept herself and embrace change.
57. Lightyear (2022)
Lightyear tells the origin story of Buzz Lightyear, the hero who inspired the toy in Toy Story. It follows his adventures as a space ranger battling evil across the galaxy.
The film combines thrilling sci-fi action with themes of bravery, teamwork, and self-discovery. It takes viewers on an exciting journey filled with challenges and unexpected friendships.
58. Elemental (2023)
Elemental explores a city where fire, water, land, and air beings live together. The story centers on a fiery young woman and a go-with-the-flow guy who discover friendship and understanding despite their differences.
The movie celebrates diversity, connection, and harmony through imaginative animation and heartfelt storytelling, showing how embracing differences can lead to unexpected friendships and personal growth.
59. The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride (1998)
This sequel follows Simba’s daughter, Kiara, as she falls in love with Kovu, a lion from a rival pride. Their relationship challenges long-standing conflicts, and promises hope for unity.
The film deepens themes of family, forgiveness, and overcoming prejudice, continuing the legacy of the original Lion King. It shows the importance of understanding and acceptance in healing old wounds and building a peaceful future.
60. Robin Hood (1973)
Robin Hood, the clever fox, steals from the rich to give to the poor in medieval England. Alongside his friends, he battles the evil Prince John to restore justice.
This animated Disney classic combines heartfelt storytelling, timeless humor, and catchy songs. As Robin fights for justice and wins the heart of Maid Marian, the film celebrates courage, friendship, and standing up for what’s right in the face of oppression.
Additional Reads: If you’re curious about films that didn’t hit the mark, check out the list of worst movies of all time.
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Conclusion: Disney’s Magic Delights People Of All Ages
Disney’s 60 greatest films span nearly a century of storytelling magic. From Snow White’s innocence to Encanto’s family celebration, each movie offers unique lessons and entertainment for all ages.
These films showcase Disney’s evolution from hand-drawn classics to computer animation masterpieces. Pixar partnerships brought new depth while traditional animation maintained its timeless charm and appeal.
For family viewing, start with The Lion King, Toy Story, or Frozen. Adventure seekers should try Moana or The Incredibles. Classic lovers will enjoy the timeless tales of Snow White and Cinderella.
FAQs
The Lion King remains the most popular Disney movie on Disney+, combining memorable music, stunning animation, and universal themes that appeal to all ages.
The Black Cauldron (1985) was Disney’s biggest box office failure, earning only $21 million worldwide against a $44 million budget.
Encanto (2021) became Disney’s most recent major success, winning the Academy Award and achieving massive popularity through streaming and social media.
Frozen 2 holds the record as Disney’s highest-grossing animated film, earning $1.45 billion worldwide and breaking numerous box office records.
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937) was Disney’s first feature-length animated film and remains one of their most influential movies.
