Top 10 Disney Animated Movies That Are Timeless

Top 10 Disney Animated Movies That Are Timeless

Welcome to MsMojo, and today we’re counting down our picks for the Top 10 Disney Animated Movies That Are Timeless.

For this list, we’ll be looking at the best feature-length films from the studio that continue to get better with age. Pixar movies deserve their own list, so you won’t find picks like “Ratatouille” or “Toy Story” here.

Which animated Disney flicks do you think stand the test of time? Let us know in the comments below.

#10: “The Emperor's New Groove” (2000)

Coming out of the late 20th century, the studio started to see a decline in interest for animated Broadway-style musicals. In response, they reworked a story that was in development to be less of a drama, and we’re so glad they did. This slapstick buddy comedy is unlike any other Disney film, which is probably why it’s held up over the years. While Kuzco and Pacha do make for an entertaining pair, the true star couple is the Emperor’s villainous ex advisor and her somewhat dim assistant. Eartha Kitt and Patrick Warburton give incredible performances in their respective roles as Yzma and Kronk. Unique and humorous, this movie is a reliable choice.

#9: “Mulan” (1998)

The animation studio has told plenty of princess stories based on European fairy tales over the decades, but this film is a refreshing change of pace. It takes inspiration from the Chinese folktale of Hua Mulan. An underdog with a secret identity, the military heroine feels like a character that would be written today. Not to mention the fact that she’s a woman undermining the patriarchy. Despite its ancient roots, the legend continues to resonate with audiences. Disney’s adaptation enhances the story with music, an anthropomorphized sidekick, and other narrative additions. Entertaining and empowering, this movie is always ready to get down to business.

#8: “Lilo & Stitch” (2002)

Fusing dangerous exterrestrial affairs, genetic experimentation, and slow island life, this film comes together to form a story about something universal. It centers on a stubborn young girl, Lilo, and her recently adopted pet, a scientifically-created blue alien named Stitch. The lovable yet mischievous pair get into all sorts of trouble together, from minor to intergalactic. Unlike many of Disney’s other classics, which take inspiration from fairy tales and legends, this one is an original. Its unique mixture of old and new themes creates a juxtaposition that’s timeless. At its core, this movie is about dedication to family, whether biological or chosen.

#7: “Tarzan” (1999)

Although Edgar Rice Burroughs’ American novel has been adapted for the screen many times over, this animated version is especially good. Placed in a distant jungle untouched by human society, the setting feels like it exists outside the confines of time. The narrative itself, however, is more familiar. As a man raised by gorillas, the titular character feels caught between two worlds. Now, when it comes to determining whether or not a Disney film will stand the test of time, one of the biggest factors is music. For this project, the studio executives made the right call when they enlisted Phil Collins to contribute to the soundtrack. Featuring a song worthy of winning an Academy Award, “Tarzan” has staying power.

#6: “Hercules” (1997)

Despite being literally ancient, Greek mythology continues to be a fascinating collection of stories. One of the most well known legends is that of Heracles and his heroic labors. This Disney adaptation may not be the most faithful to its source material, but the film is a classic in its own right. For one, the music is incredible, largely thanks to the Muses. The five goddesses narrate in vocalized harmony, delivering one great song after another with an R&B girl group sound. Meanwhile, the smooth-talking and quick-witted James Woods nails his performance as the ruler of the underworld Hades. The cast also includes Danny DeVito! We like this movie more and more with every rewatch.

#5: “Cinderella” (1950)

This rags to riches tale has been told several times over throughout the centuries, with many variations. Stories from as early as 7 BC tell of a low ranking girl marrying a royal. Different versions range from lighthearted to disturbing, but many include an element of magic. For their 1950s interpretation, Disney took inspiration from one of the most popular variants, Charles Perrault’s French fairy tale – and it paid off. Released more than half a century ago, the adaptation remains one of the studio’s most popular films. Even as their catalog continues to grow, this movie remains emblematic of the Disney Princess.

#4: “The Princess and the Frog” (2009)

The wave of renowned features from 1989’s “The Little Mermaid” to 1999’s “Tarzan” is typically referred to as the Disney Renaissance. Traditionally animated and structured as musicals, the films of this period are some of the studio’s best. And this 2009 amphibian movie is made in the same spirit as those that came 10+ years earlier. It was directed by John Musker and Ron Clements, a duo whose credits also include “Aladdin'' and “Hercules”. With captivating original characters and a historic American setting, the tale bears little resemblance to its source material. Instead, the contemporary interpretation represents a fresh take, and acts as a much-needed addition to the Disney Princess franchise.

#3: “The Little Mermaid” (1989)

Hans Christian Andersen's tragic story of a mermaid who falls in love with a human prince has been studied often. With an emphasis on physical pain and an emotionally ambiguous ending, the complex fairy tale doesn’t directly lend itself to being a modern children’s movie. Yet Disney managed to make a brand-safe adaptation that’s also extremely praise-worthy. The movie’s spunky red-haired protagonist continues to be one of the most popular princesses around, and for good reason. Throw in a campy villain, animal sidekicks, and amazing award-winning music, and you get a fish out of water tale that’s a guaranteed classic.

#2: “Beauty and the Beast” (1991)

Upon its release in 1991, this interpretation of the famous French fairy tale set a new bar not only for Disney, but also the film industry in general. It made its way to Broadway, and snagged a Best Picture nomination at the Academy Awards. No other animated Disney movie had ever achieved either of those feats back then, so “Beauty and the Beast” made history in more ways than one. The story is well developed with multi-dimensional leads, endearing supporting characters, and a well structured plot. Despite not winning Best Picture, the soundtrack received two awards, Best Original Score and Song for the titular number. An objectively good movie, this tale as old as time is sure to remain a cinematic staple.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

“Frozen” (2013)
Sisterly Love Doesn’t Have an Expiration Date

“The Nightmare Before Christmas” (1993)
This Collision of Holidays Is a Seasonal Favorite

“Tangled” (2010)
Disney’s Refreshing Take on the Brothers Grimm Classic Was a Long Time Coming

“Aladdin” (1992)
We Wouldn’t Mind Having Three Wishes to Spend

“The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh” (1977)
Presenting an Adaptation That Scored 100% on Rotten Tomatoes

#1: “The Lion King” (1994)

One of the studio’s first original stories also happens to be one of their most beloved. Based in a remote African savannah, the setting is uninhabited by human society. Instead, the animal cast is anthropomorphized and therefore universally relatable. Partially inspired by Shakespeare’s tragedy “Hamlet”, the narrative explores themes of loss and coming of age. Although he’s an exiled feline prince, it’s easy for viewers to see themselves in Simba. The feature is cinematically celebrated, winning the Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture in its category and a pair of Oscars. Beautifully constructed and highly rewatchable, “The Lion King” is a masterpiece that’s unlikely to ever feel dated.