Disney+ is easily the best platform for parents to stream the best kids movies for their young ones. Between the streamer’s classics and recent hits, everyone in the family should find plenty to enjoy. Across film and TV, subscribers should be even more well-stocked with the service’s regular additions. This guide is here and updated monthly to do the grunt work for you, highlighting some of the best kids movies on Disney+ right now.
For customers not already subscribed, the Disney Bundle is a worthwhile choice to get the most value. Fans can enjoy tons of content from Disney+, Hulu’s ad-supported tier, and ESPN+’s comprehensive sports coverage. Audiences will get plenty of Star Wars, Marvel Studios, and sports entertainment to keep them consistently entertained for a night in.
We’ve also rounded up the best kids movies on Hulu, the best kids movies on Netflix, and the best kids movies on Amazon Prime Video if you don’t find what you’re looking for on Disney+. For older audiences, check out the best new movies to stream this week and the best movies on Disney+.
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Toy Story 21999 -
Wreck-It Ralph2012
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WALL·E2008
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Toy Story 2 (1999)
It’s rare that a sequel matches, let alone exceeds, the standard of an acclaimed predecessor, but Toy Story 2 does just that. Helmed by returning director John Lasseter, this second installment opens with Woody (Tom Hanks) co-leading their owner Andy’s group of toys with Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen). However, the cowboy is stolen by a toy collector at the family’s yard sale, with Buzz and company embarking on an epic rescue mission.
Toy Story 2 earned widespread praise for its deeply emotional story of friends and familial bonds and witty sense of humor. In this sequel, the voice cast is just as stellar, if not more so, than its predecessor and new characters like Joan Cusack’s Jessie become as immediately lovable as the original crew.
Wreck-It Ralph (2012)
Wreck-It Ralph is unironically one of the best video-game-themed movies to date. Directed by Rich Moore, the story sees the titular “villain” Ralph (John C. Reilly) grow weary and push back against his assigned role as a video game antagonist. With lofty ambitions of becoming a hero, he meets a glitched racer named Vanellope von Schweetz who aims to win the race in the game Sugar Rush (Sarah Silverman).
On top of its wonderful animation style, Wreck-It Ralph earned a strong reception thanks to its broad generational appeal. By balancing fun cameos, references to several beloved real-world games, and a genuinely heartwarming story, this movie is an easy crowd-pleaser for everyone in the family.
WALL·E (2008)
95%
8.4/10Arguably Pixar Animation Studios’ best movie of the 2000s, WALL-E remains a must-watch for audiences of all ages. Director Andrew Stanton’s film revolves around the eponymous robot as he’s left to clean up an Earth that’s become an inhospitable garbage dump. However, the lovable little robot is visited by another robot named EVE and finds himself chasing love in an intergalactic adventure.
Over 15 years later, WALL-E stands among the most emotionally resonant and poignant movies ever produced by Pixar. The story explores themes of environmentalism and mindless consumerism without losing the classic Disney charm to appeal to young audiences.
Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993)
While Disney remakes are a popular trend today, one of the most noteworthy ones audiences can find on Disney+ is Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey. The 1993 movie by director Duwayne Dunham is a remake of the 1963 movie and is based on Sheila Burnford’s original novel. The story sees a golden retriever, an American bulldog, and a Himalayan cat dropped off on a ranch as their family goes on vacation.
However, fearing they have been abandoned, the furry trio embarks on a perilous quest to rejoin them. Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey is a worthwhile remake, capturing the spirit of the first adaptation and Burnford’s story with more up-to-date visuals. The plot is a great example of “simple but effective,” with the classic animal-themed adventure tale sure to get kids emotionally invested.
Lore Of The Ring Light (2025)
Spinning off one of Disney Channel’s latest cartoon comedies, Kiff: Lore of the Ring Light is a short film and TV special released between regular episodes. Directed by Allison Craig, this short sees the anthropomorphic squirrel Kiff and his friends embark on an amusing Lord of the Rings-inspired adventure.
After Kiff gathers his companions, the group sets out to destroy the powerful Ring Light before its power falls into the wrong hands. Kiff: Lore of the Ring Light will undoubtedly entertain the young fans of its show, and its Tolkien-inspired parody will be cute and hilarious for fans of the high-fantasy landmark. It’s a fun watch for parents with their kids, and perhaps it will pave the way for grander fantasy as the latter grow older.
Toy Story (1995)
95%
8.3/10The beloved Toy Story franchise has grown far beyond its debut film, but 1995’s Toy Story remains one of Disney’s best movies, animated or otherwise. Directed by John Lassetter, this takes audiences to a world where toys can come to life when their respective humans aren’t around to see them.
Cowboy doll Woody (Tom Hanks) enjoys the family dynamic with the rest of Andy’s toys, but his all-star status is challenged when the astronaut toy Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen) becomes the talk of the town. While Toy Story’s CG animation looks dated now, it was revolutionary for the time. Even today, the animation remains highly expressive and backs the funny, emotional story that all ages can fall in love with.
The Incredibles (2004)
The Incredibles is the go-to choice for audiences wanting non-Marvel and non-DC superhero fare. Directed by veteran animation director Brad Bird, fans watch the exploits of Bob and Helen Parr, a superhero married couple hiding their and their family’s powers under a government mandate.
Unfortunately for the family, this becomes even more challenging when Bob’s urge to do some good leads to a dramatic run-in with a rabid fan-turned-supervillain. The Incredibles is easily one of the best Disney animated movies from the 2000s, with its colorful art direction, sense of humor, and heartfelt family themes being the standouts. Until the MCU redeems Marvel’s First Family theatrically, the Incredibles films remain the best unofficial Fantastic Four movies.
Finding Nemo (2003)
As if it wasn’t clear enough already, the early 2000s was terrific for animated Disney films, and Finding Nemo was another high point for the studio. Director Andrew Stanton’s story focuses on Marlin (Albert Brooks), a clownfish and lone father who tragically loses his son Nemo (Alexander Gould).
He meets an incredibly forgetful regal blue tang fish named Dory (Ellen DeGeneres), and together, they set off on an ocean-wide quest to find Marlin’s son. Finding Nemo remains one of the most emotionally impactful Disney movies, packed with heartfelt family themes and animation that still holds up. It tells a touching story about learning when to let one’s children grow on their own terms.
Mickey and the Very Many Christmases (2024)
A short film and TV special, Mickey and the Very Many Christmases is an easy choice for the little ones this holiday. Co-directed by Greg Rankin and Janice S. Rim, this story revolves around Mickey Mouse making a magic wish for Christmas to last every day.
However, the cartoon icon discovers he’s getting more than he bargained for. As the face of the Disney brand, Mickey Mouse and friends are often easy picks for entertaining the kids. Mickey Mouse and the Very Many Christmases is no exception, with this bite-size movie working well as a Saturday-morning-style watch for young audiences.
Lego Star Wars Holiday Special (2020)
For more holiday-themed fun and a break from the usual Lucasfilm blockbusters, the Lego Star Wars Holiday Special is a joy to watch. Directed by Ken Cunningham, this animated short film takes Rey and BB-8 on a mission to a Jedi Temple to learn more about the mystical Force while her friends prepare to celebrate Life Day.
The pair travels through different eras in Star Wars history and meets classic characters, but she needs to be careful if they’re to make it back in time for the Life Day feast. Cheekily poking fun at the maligned live-action holiday special from decades ago, Lego Star Wars Holiday Special is a wonderful redemption. The Lego and Star Wars brands go incredibly well together, making this short movie a delight for kids and nostalgic parents.
Noelle (2019)
For a family-friendly comedy, Noelle is a good pick for a festive movie night. Directed by Marc Lawrence, this holiday-themed story follows the titular Noelle (Anna Kendrick) and her brother Nick (Bill Hader). The daughter and son of the late Santa Claus, Noelle encourages her brother to take the weekend off before taking over the Christmas responsibilities.
But when he doesn’t come back, Noelle hires an investigator to find him. Noelle is one of the best Disney+ original movies for families wanting a light-hearted comedy. Anna Kendrick’s spirited energy and a tried-and-true holiday message will easily appeal to the kids.
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005)
Author C. S. Lewis paved the way for one of the biggest children’s fantasy novel series with The Chronicles of Narnia, and the 2005 adaptation is a great holiday watch. Directed by Andrew Adamson, The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe sees four WWII-era children embark on a grand adventure.
After being evacuated from London to flee Nazi Germany’s Blitz, the wardrobe in their new home takes them to the high-fantasy world of Narnia. A witch has plunged the land into a never-ending winter, leading the children to fight alongside the lion Aslan against her. The Chronicles of Narnia will capture the imaginations of the young fantasy fans in the audience, especially with the winter motifs. Fantasy movies have a broad appeal, so the whole family has a story to get lost in.
An Almost Christmas Story (2024)
A recent Disney+ original special and short film, director David Lowery’s An Almost Christmas Story is a delightful holiday-themed feature. The short film follows an owl named Moon who gets stuck in a Christmas tree meant for Rockefeller Plaza.
However, this inconvenience turns into a heartfelt turn of events as Moon befriends a lost girl named Luna, and they bond and get in the holiday spirit along the way. An Almost Christmas Story balances a melancholic and wholesome feel that’s perfect for quick viewing and a change of pace from Disney+’s usual animated fare. The imaginative art direction and affectionate characters will satisfy families on a cozy night at home.
LEGO Marvel Avengers: Mission Demolition (2024)
In adition to the blockbuster Marvel Cinematic Universe productions, Lego Marvel Avengers: Mission Demolition is an ideal pick for the kids. Ken Cunningham’s short film revolves around a clumsy Damage Control worker named Dennis and how he becomes integral to an unlikely superhero-level mission.
Superheroes and Lego are prime choices for children’s entertainment, making Lego Marvel Avengers: Mission Demolition a fun, breezy watch for the young ones in the family. The blend of a healthy dose of comedic action and one of the most lucrative toy brands will scratch the superhero itch.
The Princess and the Frog (2009)
Based on the German folk story by the Brothers Grimm, Disney’s The Princess and the Frog is a charming family spin on the tale. Co-directed by John Musker and Ron Clements, the movie takes audiences to 1920s New Orleans and follows Tiana, a waitress whose dream is to open her own restaurant.
But after Tiana kisses Naveen, a prince-turned-frog by the evil Dr. Facilier, the pair races to turn back into humans. The Princess and the Frog was well-received for its creative take on the original story, which is backed by terrific hand-drawn art direction and animation. The movie doesn’t revolutionize Disney’s fairy tale princess formula, but it hits all the right notes to be an easy family crowd-pleaser.
Lilo & Stitch (2002)
Directors Chris Sanders and Dean DeBlois’ Lilo & Stitch is one of the most memorable Disney animations from the early 2000s. Set in Hawaii, the plot revolves around Lilo Pelekai, an orphaned girl raised by her struggling, but hardworking older sister, Nani.
Things get more chaotic when the eponymous Stitch, a volatile alien experiment, crash-lands on Hawaii and becomes Lilo’s “dog” to evade his captors. Lilo & Stitch remains one of Disney’s best examples of refreshing, original storytelling. The imaginative premise and character dynamics are as hilarious as they are heartwarming, emphasizing familial themes.
Inside Out 2 (2024)
Pixar didn’t disappoint with Inside Out 2, successfully matching its predecessor’s acclaim. Now about going through a teenager’s struggles, director Kelsey Mann’s sequel follows Riley (Kensington Tallman) as her Emotions undergo drastic changes. Characters including Joy (Amy Poehler), Sadness (Phyllis Smith), and Anger (Lewis Black) return.
However, they’re forced to deal with the hectic arrival of new Emotions like Anxiety (Maya Hawk) and Envy (Ayo Edebiri). Like the original, Inside Out 2 is beloved for its stunning visuals and relatable storyline. Adding new Emotions was a simple but effective way to liven up its cast and plot. The latter will especially resonate with teens and preteens in the family, as it tastefully explores themes of self-image and other social pressures.
Zootopia (2016)
78%
8/10With a sequel finally set to release next fall, it’s a good time to revisit 2016’s Zootopia. Co-directed by Byron Howard and Rich Moore, this colorful world takes audiences to a city of anthropomorphic animals. An unlikely partnership forms between a con artist fox named Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman) and a police officer rabbit named Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin), as the two must unravel a mysterious conspiracy about the disappearance of predatory animals.
Anthropomorphic animals aren’t a novel concept in children’s media, but Zootopia is easily one of Disney Animation Studios’ most imaginative movies. The vibrancy of its world and animation is stunning, and the way it balances comedy and themes of prejudice is tactful. It’s palatable for all ages, setting a high bar for Zootopia’s 2025 sequel.
Enchanted (2007)
For audiences wanting a twist on fairy tale tropes, 2007’s Enchanted is a great choice. Directed by Kevin Lima, the story opens with a seemingly typical Disney protagonist, Giselle (Amy Adams), in her fantasy world. However, the soon-to-be princess finds herself banished from the animated world and thrown into New York City.
Enchanted is one of Disney’s best movies from the 2000s, praised for its mix of animation and live-action elements. It’s a clever way to get meta with its story and subvert the typical Disney princess formula. Enchanted’s brand of wit has aged well, and it’s sure to delight the kids and parents in the family.
One Hundred and One Dalmatians (1961)
While the franchise has been reimagined in live-action more than once, the original animated One Hundred and One Dalmatians has yet to be beat. Co-directed by Wolfgang Reitherman, Hamilton Luske, and Clyde Geronimi, the movie focuses on 15 Dalmatian puppies eyed by Cruella de Ville (Betty Lou Gerson).
The evil socialite plans on turning them into fur coats, with parents Pongo (Rod Taylor) and Perdita (Cate Bauer, Lisa Daniels) setting off on a grand adventure to rescue their litter. One Hundred and One Dalmatians was a benchmark of its time; detailed 2D art and animation are still charming. The story and whimsical personalities provide families with characters to root for, and it arguably paved the way for one of the most iconic Disney villains.
Big City Greens the Movie: Spacecation (2024)
Disney+ gives access to some of the best Disney Channel cartoons. The network’s Big City Greens series is among them, and families can now watch a sing-along version of its movie.
Big City Greens the Movie: Spacecation continues the exploits of Cricket Green (Chris Houghton) as he accidentally ropes his family in an outer-space mission to save Big City. Complete with its endearing sense of humor, Spacecation is sure to keep the young fans in the family entertained. Now with the sing-along version added, there should be plenty of rewatch value for the kids, too.
Tangled (2010)
Disney can also be counted on for colorful renditions of classic fairy tales like Tangled, which is among the best from the 2010s. Co-directed by Nathan Greno and Byron Howard, the plot takes a spin on Rapunzel, with the titular princess (Mandy Moore) confined to a tower and dreams of freedom.
Together with a bandit named Flynn Rider (Zachary Levi), the teenage princess schemes to escape from the tower using her long, magical hair. With striking visuals, charming characters, and catchy music, Tangled is a great example of mixing tried-and-true story tropes with modernity. The modern elements are well executed in how the story inspires confidence and empowerment in the young girls in the audience.
Bolt (2008)
The company closed the 2000s strong with animated movies like Bolt. Co-directed by Chris Williams and Byron Howard, the story revolves around the titular dog (John Travolta), who is unknowingly the star of his own TV shows.
Bolt takes things too seriously. However, Bolt thinks his “superpowers” are real and tries to use them when he believes his owner, Penny (Miley Cyrus), is kidnapped. Like several other Walt Disney Animation Studios movies, Bolt was well-received for its safe, crowd-pleasing story and likable main cast. Travolta’s portrayal of the titular hound is suitably zany, and it’s all backed by impressive visuals and animation.
The Fox and the Hound (1981)
A comparatively underrated classic in Disney’s animated catalog, The Fox and the Hound is a touching story. Co-directed by Ted Berman, Richard Rich, and Art Stevens, this adaptation depicts the developing, unlikely friendship between a red fox named Tod (Mickey Rooney) and a hound named Copper (Kurt Russell).
The two struggle with their mixed emotions as their growing bond clashes with their instincts as adversaries. The Fox and the Hound is a resonating children’s movie thanks to its underlying messaging. While the animation is understandably dated, its lovable leading characters and sincere messaging on the perils of bias and prejudice hold up well.
Lightyear (2022)
The flagship Toy Story series will continue in 2026 with its fifth installment, but Lightyear is a fun spinoff. Directed by Angus MacLane, the movie sees Red One‘s Chris Evans lend his voice to Buzz Lightyear as he finds himself marooned on the planet T’Kani Prime. With the help of his commander and crew, they try to find a way home while facing a looming galactic threat.
Lightyear isn’t the first portrayal of the “fictional” human Buzz Lightyear in another continuity, but it gives it exciting new life with this animation style. It likely won’t wow young fans of the main movies, but it’s an entertaining diversion and a different perspective to view the character.
Strange World (2022)
While it’s not among Disney’s standout animations, Strange World is a worthwhile adventure. Directed by Don Hall, the movie revolves around the exploits of a family of renowned explorers.
The Clades (Presumed Innocent‘s Jake Gyllenhaal, Jack Quaid, Jaboukie Young-White, Gabrielle Union) travel underground to rescue a miraculous plant instrumental to a subterranean lifeform’s survival. Strange World received positive reviews for its delightful art style and pulpy adventurous atmosphere. The story is far from a novel concept, but it’s a fun romp that families can easily get invested in.
Brave (2012)
Pixar Animation Studios’ Brave was a milestone, as the colorful fantasy movie featured the studio’s first female protagonist. Set in a fantasy rendition of the Scottish Highlands, the story sees Merida (Kelly Macdonald), a young princess and skilled archer who defies an age-old tradition and inadvertently releases a curse on her kingdom.
To save her home from turmoil, the princess has to look inward, channel her courage, and seek the help of a Wise Woman. While Brave’s plot isn’t groundbreaking, its fantasy world, vibrant characters, and strong lead make it a worthwhile entry to Pixar’s catalog. Its familial messages and themes of independence will be especially inspiring for young girls in the family.
Beauty and the Beast (1991)
The 1991 Beauty and the Beast adaptation stands as one of Disney’s landmark animations. Co-directed by Gary Trousdale and Kirk Wise, the story follows the growing relationship between the eponymous Beast (Robby Benson) and Belle (Paige O’Hara), the young woman he imprisons in his castle.
Beast is a prince who is cursed with this form as punishment for his past cruelties, with only true love capable of breaking it. Beauty and the Beast is a classic that’s sure to engross young audiences even today. Its combination of fantasy, humor, romance, and an enchanting musical score help make this fairy tale timeless.
Turning Red (2022)
While Disney’s animated movies haven’t been as consistent in recent years, 2022’s Turning Red is a highlight. Directed by Domee Shi, it tells the story of 13-year-old Meilin “Mei” Lee (Rosalie Chiang) who struggles to deal with her overprotective mother and a hereditary curse.
Whenever Mei feels an emotion powerful enough, she abruptly turns into a giant red panda. Turning Red received praise for its imaginative visuals and creative metaphors for familiar themes. Mei’s magical and sudden transformations are an inventive way to convey the coming-of-age journey, which will resonate particularly with teen and pre-teen audiences.
Coco (2017)
Disney Motion Pictures’ Coco is one of the most critically and commercially successful animated movies from the last decade. Directed by Lee Unkrich, the plot focuses on a 12-year-old boy named Miguel Gonzalez (Anthony Gonzalez) who is inadvertently transported to the Land of the Dead.
There, the boy seeks out his great-great-grandfather Hector (Gael García Bernal) in hopes of reversing his family’s ban on music in the living world. Coco earned universal acclaim for its original story, vivid art direction, and moving plot. On top of taking loving inspiration from Mexico’s culture, the movie impressively tackles themes of life and death in a way children can grasp without feeling watered down.
Big Hero 6 (2014)
The superhero genre as most audiences know it isn’t performing as well as in the 2010s, but Big Hero 6 is a reminder of how versatile it can be. Animated by Disney Animation Studios, the story follows the adventures of young robotics prodigy Hiro Hamada (Ryan Potter) and his late brother’s helper robot Baymax (Scott Adsit).
Together, they form a superhero duo to defeat the villain responsible for the death of Hiro’s brother. Big Hero 6 earned praise for its inventive premise, setting, visuals, and exciting action. It remains an impressive example of how creative the superhero genre can be outside of the typical Marvel or DC offerings.
Ratatouille (2007)
Director Brad Bird has a terrific track record with animation, and Ratatouille is no exception. The Pixar movie revolves around the unlikely partnership between two characters in Paris — a rat named Remy (The Sandman‘s Patton Oswalt), who aspires to become a chef at an esteemed restaurant, and the establishment’s garbage boy, Alfredo Linguini (Lou Romano).
With Alfredo acting as the cooking vehicle for Remy to secretly pilot, the two aim to rise through the kitchen’s ranks. Ratatouille enjoyed critical acclaim for its creative plot, animation, and witty sense of humor. It earns its place among Pixar’s best movies, and its briskly-paced story and comedy will undoubtedly find more young fans in the 2020s.
Inside Out (2015)
Inside Out 2 is a big 2024 hit. It’s a sequel to director Pete Docter’s Inside Out, which was one of the most acclaimed Pixar Animation Studios movies of the 2010s. The movie follows Riley (Kaitlyn Dias), a young girl who struggles to cope with her family’s move from Minnesota to San Francisco.
The plot explores the 11-year-old girl’s mind to show how her Emotions — Joy (Amy Poehler), Sadness (Phyllis Smith), Fear (Bill Hader), Anger (Lewis Black), and Disgust (Mindy Kaling) — team up to help her with this major life change. Inside Out earned widespread praise for its imaginative and poignant premise. Using personified emotions as characters was entertaining conceptually and helped kids understand the importance of valuing their emotions.
Frozen (2013)
Frozen became a phenomenon for Walt Disney Animation Studios during its original theatrical run in 2013. Co-directed by Chris Buck and Jennifer Lee, the movie revolves around the Princess of Arendelle, Anna (Kristen Bell), and her adventure across the snow-covered land.
Along with her companions Kristoff (Jonathan Groff), the reindeer Sven (Groff), and Olaf the snowman (Josh Gad) , Anna aims to find her sister, Elsa (Idina Menzel), after her powers plunge the kingdom into a perpetual winter. Frozen has been revered as one of Disney’s greatest contemporary animated movies thanks to a spirited voice cast, gorgeous art direction, and endearing musical numbers. The movie effortlessly shifts from laugh-out-loud comedy to touching themes of sisterhood.
Frozen II (2019)
Though it spent some time in development, Walt Disney Animation delivered a satisfying sequel in Frozen II. Chris Buck and Jennifer Lee return to co-direct this feature, revisiting the core cast three years after the first movie.
Anna (Kristen Bell) and Elsa (Idina Menzel) regroup with Kristoff (Jonathan Groff), Olaf (Josh Gad), and Sven (Groff) to uncover the mystery behind Elsa’s abilities in a magical forest. While it doesn’t have the same novelty as the original film, Frozen II is a worthwhile adventure for these beloved characters. Young fans will undoubtedly appreciate the return of Anna and Elsa and the stunning visuals that come with their world.
Monsters, Inc. (2001)
Director Pete Docter’s Monsters, Inc. is a modern Disney classic that still holds up today. The story focuses on a pair of unique monsters named James P. “Sulley” Sullivan (John Goodman) and Mike Wazowski (Billy Crystal) in the titular energy factory.
Though the company generates energy by scaring human children, things become complicated when Sulley tries to rescue a lost girl and bring her home. Monsters, Inc. earned universal acclaim for its imaginative premise and memorable art direction. It remains one of Pixar’s best movies for its appeal to all age demographics.
The Sandlot (1993)
55%
7.8/10Director David Mickey Evans’ The Sandlot is a cult-classic comedy of the ’90s. The story is about young Scottie Smalls (Thomas Guiry) who moves into a new neighborhood and befriends a group of kids who play baseball in a nearby sandlot.
The crew goes on a series of colorful and comedic exploits, but face trouble when Scottie loses his stepdad’s (Denis Leary) prized autographed baseball over a fence. The Sandlot is a basic plot elevated by its endearing cast and touching story beats. It’ll effectively play into the nostalgia factor for parents while entertaining the young ones with its light humor.
Wish (2023)
Co-directors Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn’s Wish is the latest animated theatrical feature to hit Disney+. This musical fantasy tells the story of 17-year-old Asha (Argylle‘s Ariana DeBose) who looks to the sky and desperately wishes to save her community from the ruler of the Kingdom of Rosas, Magnifico (Chris Pine).
The girl’s wish is so passionate, it’s answered by a charming ball of energy fittingly named Star. Wish isn’t a bold new story from Walt Disney Animation Studios, but it’s a warmly nostalgic movie that will captivate children. Thanks to its vivid colors, endearing cast, and spirited musical numbers, Wish is a perfectly safe Disney tale.
Cinderella (2015)
The 2015 remake Cinderella was an admirable new take on this classic fairy tale. Directed by Kenneth Branagh, this version sees Lily James (The Iron Claw) play the young Ella as she suddenly finds herself subjected to the cruelty of her spiteful stepmother (Cate Blanchett).
While she laments her unforgiving new life and grapples with her father’s passing, Ella’s life takes a new direction after meeting Prince Kit (Richard Madden). Cinderella has received several adaptations over the years, but this remake captures the uplifting spirit of the animated movie. The vibrant special effects and timeless messaging make Cinderella a resonating story for kids.
Moana (2016)
Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Moana is one of the standout animated movies of the 2010s. Co-directed by John Musker and Ron Clements, the plot focuses on the titular Moana (Auli’i Cravalho) as she’s selected by the ocean’s call to save her coastal village from disaster.
Joined by the shapeshifting demigod Maui (Dwayne Johnson), the pair aims to return an ancient relic to the goddess Te Fiti and save Moana’s island from a devastating blight. Moana was acclaimed as one of the studio’s most original stories in recent years. Complemented by an inventive plot, inspiration from Polynesian folklore, and breathtaking visuals, this movie is a unique Disney experience for audiences of all ages.
The Kid Who Would Be King (2019)
Director Joe Cornish’s The Kid Who Would Be King takes a new spin on the legend of King Arthur. The 2019 fantasy adventure begins in modern-day London as a young boy named Alex (Louis Ashbourne Serkis) stumbles upon King Arthur’s legendary sword Excalibur.
Together with the wizard Merlin (Angus Imrie as young Merlin and Patrick Stewart as old Merlin), they set off on a quest to stop the enchantress Morgana (Dune: Part Two‘s Rebecca Ferguson). Arthurian legend inspires many fantasy stories, and The Kid Who Would Be King cleverly blends its folklore with kid-friendly trappings.
Luca (2021)
71%
7.4/10One of Pixar Animation Studios’ most recent movies, Luca is a delightful coming-of-age story. Centering on the titular Luca Paguro (voiced by Jacob Tremblay), director Enrico Casarosa’s film sees the young sea monster boy adjust to life in his human form when on land as he interacts with his friends and gets to know their town of Portorosso.
The group experiences a transformative summer vacation together, but Luca’s secret sea monster identity threatens to become a point of contention between the two societies. On top of the inspired Italian-themed setting and vivid art direction, Luca succeeds with its unique spin on the coming-of-age theme. It may not be a novel concept, but it’s a timeless and resonating one for young viewers.
Onward (2020)
61%
7.4/10With a touching story and star-studded leading cast, Onward is one of the most imaginative kids movies from Pixar in recent years. Directed by Dan Scanlon, the movie is set in an urban fantasy world and takes place in the modern day, where fantasy creatures make up the world’s everyday population.
Onward focuses on two elf brothers living in the suburbs named Ian and Barley Lightfoot (voiced by Tom Holland and Chris Pratt), who go on a timed, 24-hour quest to discover an ancient artifact with the potential to resurrect their late father. Thanks to its easily likable cast, this movie’s story and characters should be easy for families to get attached to. Onward‘s straightforward but sincere story will also hit all the emotional beats audiences would hope for in a Pixar feature.
Ron's Gone Wrong (2021)
65%
7/10Released under the 20th Century Studios banner after Disney major studio acquisition, Ron’s Gone Wrong is an entertaining movie outside of the latter’s usual animated wheelhouse. Co-directed by Sarah Smith and Jean-Philippe Vine, the movie revolves around a middle-school boy named Barney (voiced by Shazam! Fury of the Gods‘ Jack Dylan Grazer) who struggles to fit in socially and befriends a robot he names Ron (voiced by Zach Galifianakis) who’s been deemed defective.
Barney finds himself scrambling to protect Ron as corporate figures want to destroy him to avoid a poor public image. Ron’s Gone Wrong is an entertaining and heartfelt movie, with Galifianakis’ voice role as Ron sure to make young audiences feel invested. Likewise, the movie makes some tasteful commentary on the increasing obsession with technology.
Raya and the Last Dragon (2021)
75%
7.3/10The 2021 movie Raya and the Last Dragon is one of the more inventive animated works from Walt Disney Animation Studios in recent years. Co-directed by Don Hall and Carlos López Estrada, the movie is set in the world of Kumandra, where a warrior princess named Raya (voiced by The Last Jedi actress Kelly Marie Tran) goes off on a quest to find the legendary last dragon to save her homeland from evil spirits called Druun.
The movie was well-received for its vibrant visuals and animation. Raya and the Last Dragon is also a welcome exploration into high fantasy elements inspired by Southeast Asian cultures.
The Good Dinosaur (2015)
Considering how lucrative the Jurassic Park franchise is even today, it’s surprising there hasn’t been more of a dinosaur presence in Hollywood Disney’s The Good Dinosaur is a delightful child-friendly alternative to those films. Directed by Peter Sohn and produced by Pixar Animation Studios, the movie is about a young boy named Spot (voiced by Jack Bright), who forms an unlikely friendship with a shy 11-year-old Apatosaurus named Arlo.
After being washed away downriver, the two go on a perilous journey to find their way back home. While the story is rather simplistic compared to other Pixar hits, The Good Dinosaur is filled with endearing characters, colorful imagery, and kid-friendly coming-of-age themes that resonate with family audiences.
Hercules (1997)
A 1990s Disney classic, Hercules is a wildly entertaining watch even today. Loosely based on various elements of Greek mythology, co-directors John Musker and Ron Clements’ film makes an engaging animated musical comedy out of the story of Hercules.
A demigod raised among mortal humans, Hercules (voiced by Tate Donovan) goes on an arduous quest to learn how to become a true hero and ascend to his place on Mount Olympus, all while his sinister and godly uncle Hades (voiced by James Woods) schemes his demise. Hercules was critically praised for its relentlessly fun pacing and characters. Its witty pop culture references and infectious musical numbers will also keep the whole family entertained.
Chip 'n Dale: Rescue Rangers (2022)
The classic Disney cartoon duo of Chip and Dale got a modern update in the form of Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers. Directed by Akiva Schaffer, this family comedy sees the iconic duo (voiced by John Mulaney and Andy Samberg, respectively) 30 years after the cancellation of their TV show in a world where people and cartoon characters coexist.
Chip and Dale later find themselves investigating the disappearance of TV co-star and friend Monterey Jack. Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers is a charming and witty comedy. The Disney+ original movie seamlessly and cleverly combines live-action and animation, functioning as a meta sequel to the classic 1980s animated TV series of the same name.
The Emperor's New Groove (2000)
One of the most memorable animated Disney comedies of the early 2000s, The Emperor’s New Groove has since earned a cult following. Directed by Mark Dindal, the movie sees the cocky Emperor Kuzco (voiced by David Spade) morphed into a llama by his former adviser Yzma (voiced by Eartha Kitt) and her not-so-bright, but endearing henchman Kronk (voiced by Seinfeld‘s Patrick Warburton).
He’s determined to turn back into a human, and enlists the help of village leader Pacha (voiced by John Goodman) to escort him back to the palace. The Emperor’s New Groove was praised as a welcome change of pace for its time. The Incan-inspired comedy featured an inventive and humorous cast of fresh characters and smooth animation work.
Aladdin (1992)
Alongside movies like The Lion King, Aladdin is one of Disney’s biggest highlights when it comes to animated musical comedies. Co-directed by John Musker and Ron Clements, the movie is about the titular Arabian child (voiced by Scott Weinger) who stumbles across a magical genie’s lamp. With the help of the genie (voiced by Robin Williams), Aladdin masquerades as a prince in an attempt to win the affection of Princess Jasmine (voiced by Linda Larkin).
However, the pair have to dodge Jasmine’s overbearing father (voiced by Douglas Seale) and the nefarious Jafar (voiced by Jonathan Freeman), who wants to steal the lamp for nefarious reasons. The original Aladdin still holds up as the best version of the movie. Bolstered by well-choreographed musical numbers, a clever sense of humor, and an iconic performance by the late Robin Williams, Aladdin is a true gem in the Disney vault.
