A Definitive Ranking of the Most Underrated Disney Animated Films
You know Disney's princess movies like Cinderella and Frozen, or you might enjoy their other classics, like Lilo & Stitch and Zootopia, but there quite a few lesser know gems.
As super fans of anything Disney puts out, we have pretty strong opinions on most of their stuff, including the underrated ones, like A Goofy Movie. Curious to discover them? Below, check out our definitive ranking of the under-appreciated flicks.
10. The Black Cauldron
Many people say The Black Cauldron is Disney's forgotten film of the 1980s. Understandably so, this movie didn't do anything for us. The story felt pretty generic in terms of fantasy, and the characters weren't memorable.
Sure, you could argue some of the more popular releases took inspiration from The Black Cauldron, but they were created more effectively.
9. The Fox and the Hound
Similar to The Black Cauldron, The Fox and the Hound was less than memorable. In the grand scheme of animal-centered Disney films, they are many more exciting and heartfelt options. That said, it does feature some great actors from Old Hollywood, including Mickey Rooney.
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8. The Rescuers Down Under
We've probably seen The Rescuers Down Under one time. If we can remember correctly, it had some funny one-liners and an okay storyline. But the fact that we haven't had a desire to rewatch it in the past two decades tells us enough. Hey, we never say never—maybe, we'll see it again and realize it's better than we thought it was.
7. Atlantis: The Lost Empire
This might be a controversial opinion to rank Atlantis this low. That said, we've reached the point in this list where we can say we actively enjoy this movie. It had great acting from stars like Michael J. Fox and Cree Summer, and the storyline wasn't bad at all. Sadly, it's just not in our usual tastes, leaving us to reach for other films.
6. Lady and the Tramp
As far as Disney animal films go, we think Lady and the Tramp is one of the best. In general, we're not huge fans of these animal movies. Still, we're unsure why it doesn't receive the same attention as Bambi and Dumbo. Really, it's super adorable and spawned that iconic spaghetti kiss scene. Plus, it totally tugs at our heart strings, like the aforementioned films would.
5. The Hunchback of Notre Dame
Between Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin and Mulan, Disney got its groove back in the 1990s. The Hunchback of Notre Dame is no exception. This movie provides the feel-good theatrics we know and love from the studio. The ending also has a great message—we love that Quasimodo didn't transform into something more conventionally beautiful to get his happy ending.
4. Big Hero 6
We know so many people who forget Big Hero 6 came from Disney and not another studio. The only reason we're convinced it wasn't more successful is because it didn't get the same level of promotion (especially compared to their musicals).
Big Hero 6 is evidence you don't need a driving, catchy soundtrack to create a lovable family film, teaching viewers about grief in a very realistic setting. Also, can we get this movie its flowers for its beautiful artistry?
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3. A Goofy Movie
A Goofy Movie had us thinking Goofy should be the main mascot for Disney, not Mickey Mouse. Each character—from Goofy's son, Max, to Powerline—serve a clear, meaningful and unforgettable purpose in the movie, and the plot is action-packed and relatable. Oh, and we still sing some of its songs to this day. Here's to hoping the film will get a bigger presence in the parks as Disney does its revamping.
2. Meet the Robinsons
Ah, Meet the Robinsons. We can still recall the days when Disney Channel would screen this on television. Honestly, it's just the epitome of fun. A well-developed ensemble cast that truly makes you feel a bond with the characters. And it also gave us the Jonas Brothers' "Kids of the Future."
1. Emperor's New Groove
There will never be a day when we don't understand why Emperor's New Groove is one of the most popular Disney movies. Kuzco, Yzma and Kronk are all icons in their own right. This film has us cracking up almost every other second, and it has so many quotable phrases—"Pull the level, Kronk!"
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