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VOICE OVER: Emily Brayton WRITTEN BY: Beca Dalimonte
Welcome to the Family Disney, the home of the Family Disney. For this list, we'll be looking at the most caring, relatable, and positive familial dynamics present in the studio's films. Our countdown includes "A Goofy Movie," "Moana," "The Lion King," and more!

#10: The Robinsons “Meet the Robinsons” (2007)

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Lewis is an orphan desperate for a family in “Meet the Robinsons.” The unconventional young inventor actually works to build a machine that will scan his brain and show him memories of the mother who gave him up. But things change when a boy named Wilbur introduces him to the titular Robinsons. Eventually, Lewis learns that they’re his future family, and that Wilbur is indeed his son. He finds solace in their like-minded company, with the family’s matriarch Franny even offering to adopt him before realizing he time traveled. The Robinsons truly see and embrace him, making him feel cared for, supported, and worthy. Thanks to them, Lewis realizes that the life he didn’t have isn’t nearly as important as the one he’ll get.

#9: Goofy & Max “A Goofy Movie” (1995) & “An Extremely Goofy Movie” (2000)

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Goofy may be a whacky, nonsensical character, but he and his son Max have one of the most realistic family dynamics in Disney’s filmography. You see, Goofy is a loving single father who wants to spend time with his teen, but he’s also kind of embarrassing to have around. In “A Goofy Movie,” the pair struggle to get along on a family road trip. But by the end, they reconnect and are stronger than ever. Their story continues in “An Extremely Goofy Movie,” where Goofy heads to the same college as his son. Naturally, the pair butt heads again. Yet they wind up being strong enough to survive any growing pains. Things aren’t always perfect between this father-son duo, but their love is unmatched.

#8: The Hamadas & Aunt Cass “Big Hero 6” (2014)

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A lot of Disney families are irreparably shaken by death. But it still comes as a shock when Hiro’s brother Tadashi dies in “Big Hero 6.” Prior to his passing, the brothers are shown to be close, and watching them together always warms our hearts. Tadashi even steers Hiro in the direction of further schooling, and introduces him to his robot Baymax, who was made to heal sick people. Their Aunt Cass is a wonderful mother figure, too. After tragedy strikes, she does her best to support Hiro emotionally. And Baymax brings him closer to his departed brother, eventually allowing him to carry on his legacy. Though it’s a heartbreaking story, this family’s connection is truly special.

#7: Anna & Elsa “Frozen” franchise (2013-)

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“Frozen” was a smash hit with critics and audiences alike upon its release. At the center of it all are two sisters, Anna and Elsa. After an accident involving the latter’s ice powers, the pair were kept apart by their parents for years. Although things get complicated when they reunite, their once close bond hasn't dissipated. In the end, the true love between them turns out to be the life-saving answer to their problems. These two will do anything for one another. And the sequel further reinforced how tight-knit they are, with everything from family game nights to an emotional adventure and reunion. There’s no doubt that sisters everywhere look at Anna and Elsa, and see #siblinggoals.

#6: Moana, Tala, & Moana’s Parents “Moana” (2016)

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The daughter of Motunui's chief Tui and his wife Sina, Moana has been taught to stay away from the ocean and focus on their tribe, especially by her dad. Nonetheless, she’s compelled to journey beyond the reef not only to seek adventure, but to find the cure for the island’s ills. Her father seems harsh, but he’s just terrified of losing her. Meanwhile, her grandmother Tala supports her wholeheartedly, and their connection is one of the strongest we’ve ever seen. On her deathbed, she encourages Moana to go save her people, and though she passes, she’s still there when her granddaughter needs her most. Sina also helps Moana leave, because she wants what’s best for her. Needless to say, this is one powerful unit.

#5: The Fa Family “Mulan” (1998)

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Honor, tradition, and family are immensely important to the Fas. Unfortunately, Mulan’s never been good at being what the matchmakers consider a “proper” bride. When her father gets called to fight in the war, she sees a golden opportunity to save him from a likely death, and maybe find herself. She pretends to be a man and proves to be a competent soldier, even winning the approval of The Emperor. Between Mulan, her spirited ancestors, caring parents, and hilarious grandma, there’s just no defeating this family. When Mulan tries to give her father the sword of Shan Yu and the crest of The Emperor upon her return, he responds in the most touching way. That tells you everything you need to know about the Fas!

#4: The Pelekais “Lilo & Stitch” (2002)

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“Lilo & Stitch” showcases how amazing families can include both your blood and those you find along the way. Lilo Pelekai is a young girl who’s being taken care of by her older sister Nani after their parents' death. Nani struggles to maintain custody of her sister, but loves her oh so dearly. Enter Stitch, a pet who turns out to be a fugitive from another planet. Throughout their madcap alien adventure, Nani and Lilo gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for what it means to be a family. They grow closer than ever, and come to embrace the new additions to their life despite the chaos. By the end, their “ohana” grows, and they find stability, and immense joy together.

#3: Simba’s Family “The Lion King” franchise (1994-)

Simba is a young and naive prince who’s incredibly close to his father Mufasa. So when he loses him in an accident he believes he caused, he’s crushed. At the insistence of his uncle Scar, who actually caused the death, he runs off. Thankfully, he’s found by Timon and Pumbaa, who become dedicated surrogate parents to him. Both they and Simba’s biological parents play a major role in raising him. This is true even of his departed father, who appears to him in the clouds and helps him find his way again. Thus, Simba becomes an adult any parent would be proud of. In the sequel, he passes down his wisdom to his daughter Kiara, as the circle of life demands.

#2: Pacha’s Family “The Emperor’s New Groove” (2000)

“The Emperor’s New Groove” may be about narcissistic emperor Kuzco but, when they’re on-screen, Pacha’s family steals the spotlight. Village leader Pacha is humble and wise, his pregnant wife Chicha is intelligent and straightforward, and their children are insanely entertaining. The family’s dynamic is charmingly realistic, with every member having their own unique personality. Yet they also have a strong foundation in each other, which creates the sense that no matter what hardships life throws their way, they’ll be okay. When Pacha ends up on an adventure with llama Kuzco in a bid to save his village, we see precisely how supportive the family is. There’s no doubt that their essence makes everything and everyone — including Kuzco — better. Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions. Perdita, Pongo, & Their Puppies, “One Hundred and One Dalmatians” (1961) Nothing Can Keep Them Apart Duchess & Her Kittens, “The Aristocats” (1970) An Adorable, Creative, & Caring Bunch Tiana’s Family, “The Princess & the Frog” (2009) Love & Nurturing Abound Between the Members of This Unit Belle & Maurice, “Beauty and the Beast” (1991) They Risk Their Own Safety for One Another Tarzan & Kala, “Tarzan” (1999) An Adoption That Fosters Wondrous Bonds

#1: The Madrigals “Encanto” (2021)

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Everyone is talking about the Madrigals, Disney’s perhaps most complex family. “Encanto” stands out from the rest of the studio’s filmography because it has no true villain. Instead, it focuses on various issues plaguing its magical family. These include Bruno’s ostracization, Luisa being overworked, and the pressure on Isabela to be perfect. Although our protagonist Mirabel doesn’t have a magical gift like the others, she winds up bringing everyone together in a stronger way. The Madrigals aren't perfect, but throughout their pain, struggles, and conflicts, we feel a deep undercurrent of love guiding them. Each member of the family sincerely wants to make the others proud. Magic abounds in this film, but the true miracle is the Madrigal bond.

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If you do make a Pixar family list, I GUARANTEE that the Incredibles would be number one!
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