Everyone has their favourite Walt Disney film, there’s no denying that.
Walt Disney movies have brought everyone so many great film memories. Beginning in 1937 with “Snow White” and hitting new heights with last year’s box office “Frozen“, it’s undeniable how loved these films are at every corner of the globe. Regardless if you are a fan of musicals, comedies or dramas, there is one, if not more, animated Walt Disney movie for everyone.
With that being said, the question is which Disney movies deserve a place on your DVD shelf? We’re here to help you decide. Here’s a list of our favourite Disney Animated Classics from way back when, in no particular order.
Snow White (1937)
Effortless charmingly, Snow White is definitely one of our favourite Walt Disney classics. “Snow White” may not have been the first animated feature, but Walt Disney and his animators created an entirely new genre and ball game with this animated film. Apart from the storyline and characters, “Snow White” features gorgeous animation and some of the most unforgettable tunes in film history.
Pinocchio (1940)
Personally, we think “Pinocchio” is Disney’s most magical invention. Opening with a sweet singing cricket, the film plunges into scenes from a nightmare: Pinocchio’s extending nose is probably one of animation’s most sinister and profound metaphor. Filled with a universe of anxiety and curiosity, this movie is nothing short of spectacular.
Dumbo (1941)
Our writer Bryna loves elephants so it’s no surprise that “Dumbo” was one of her top picks. This tale of a baby elephant born into a traveling circus is warm, loving, moving and filled with energy! At its core, is a heartbreakingly sad story of a mother separated from her child, that was pretty straightforward, no doubt. But what’s so special about this movie is that Disney made room for inventive set pieces. The jazzy dance of the pink elephants when Dumbo mistakenly gets drunk is a scene for the ages.
Bambi (1942)
“Bambi”, oh Bambi. We can watch this a million times and cry as well as fall in love with the movie each time we do. Classic in its nature, “Bambi” is a strikingly breathtaking, jaw-dropping showcase of ingenuity, creativity, and genius of Disney animators. Walt Disney called “Bambi” “the best picture I have ever made, and the best ever to come out of Hollywood”. We honestly can’t agree more.
The Jungle Book (1967)
“The Jungle Book” has got to be one of the most hippie animated films ever. Then again, are you really surprised? We sure aren’t. It was after all released in the 1960s. Okay, hippie-ish 60s vibe aside, “The Jungle Book” featured some of Disney’s most-loved characters including Baloo, Mowgli, and the devilish Shere Khan. Also, musical numbers like “Bare Necessities” and “I Wanna Be Like You Area” are pure bliss.
Beauty And The Beast (1991)
Witty and charming, sunnily confident and filled with heartwarming innocence, there is nothing to not love about “Beauty and the Beast”. From the emotional heart of the story to Broadway-like tracks and adorable talking objects in the castle, “Beauty and the Beast” took the studio to a new level as it became the first animated movie to be nominated for Best Picture at the Oscars.
Cinderella (1950)
This film probably made every girl wish they were Cinderella. From beautiful animation to sweet tunes, the story of this lucky heroine and her gang of animal sidekicks as well as the promise of total transformation was a sure thing. Until today, we sometimes still wish we had a fairy Godmother of our own. A girl can dream, right?
Lady and the Tramp (1955)
Best known for that “spaghetti kiss” − a legendary scene that Walt Disney almost cut out (thank God he didn’t), “Lady and the Tramp” features many other charming moments. “Lady and the Tramp” is so beautiful, it’s a true labour of love that will make anyone who watches it feel all warm and fuzzy.
Aladdin (1992)
Aladdin kick-started the modern era of animation. It’s easy to understand why it is one of the most successful animated features. A treat visually, “Aladdin” features a perfect pairing of hi-tech graphics and the traditional Disney virtue of strong characterisation and colour. Witty and filled with life, Aladdin is quite possibly our favourite Disney prince/hero.
The Lion King (1994)
Lions have never been so glorious and majestic looking. Featuring loveable and relatable heroes, “The Lion King” also features Scar – one of the best Disney villains ever. Also a meerkat and warthog (Timon and Pumbaa) pretty much raising a lion (Simba) was sheer brilliance. Featuring gorgeous animation, a beautiful storyline plus exceedingly hummable soundtrack by Tim Rice and Elton John, it’s no wonder that the “The Lion King” smashed the box office in 1994.
Peter Pan (1953)
Steering clear of the darkness, Disney amped up the comedy of JM Barrie’s play. In Disney’s adaptation of “Peter Pan”, Captain Hook is a loveable bad guy, hotly pursued by an ever-ravenous crocodile. Definitely, the best adaptation of Barrie’s play, this version of “Peter Pan” will keep you giggling throughout the whole film.
There you have it, a list of our favourite Disney Animated Classics from the golden days. If your favourite didn’t make our list, do share it with us in the comments section.. Of course, there are some modern Disney Animated flicks that we love and enjoy too, but that’s a whole other list altogether so stay tuned! 😉
