Picking out just 5 Disney movies that need more love is a difficult task. Disney has created many classic animated movies such as The Lion King, Cinderella, and Frozen, but they have also put out many movies that don’t get much attention. Since they have released over sixty movies in the official canon of animated features, it is inevitable that some of them won’t get the attention they deserve. Some of the movies that Disney ignores are just as good as their established classics, so let’s look at 5 Disney movies that need more love.
5 Disney Movies
1. The Hunchback of Notre Dame
This is one of the darkest animated movies Disney has ever released makes the 5 Disney Movies list for sure. While it obviously doesn’t reach the darkness level of Victor Hugo’s original novel, it still unflinchingly portrays bigotry and lust. The animation is gorgeous, and the characters feel very genuine. This movie also features some of the best songs in Disney history, including “Hellfire,” the boldest villain song Disney has ever produced. While the internet hails The Hunchback of Notre Dame as a masterpiece, Disney seems to have largely forgotten it.
2. Treasure Planet
If asked to make Treasure Island in space, many people would probably take inspiration from Star Wars, with futuristic spaceships and technology. Disney, however, was more creative than that. They created a world that looks like the 18th century, but also utilizes technology like holograms, portals, and robots. It shouldn’t work, but it does. In addition, Treasure Planet features memorable characters and top-notch action scenes. This movie is more than worthy of its cult following. Maybe someday, Disney will acknowledge its brilliance and that’s why it is in the 5 Disney Movies list that need more love.
3. Ralph Breaks the Internet
Wreck-It Ralph is a cherished tale about video game characters living their own lives when the arcade closes. Its sequel, however, doesn’t receive as much love. Some people think the internet references are too blatant, while others see the ending where (SPOILER) Ralph and Vanellope separate as a disservice to the first film. However, the movie deals with how toxic clinginess can be destructive and how friendships can emerge stronger after being tested. Also, the internet versions of the Disney Princesses are hilarious.
4. Raya and the Last Dragon
This movie likely fell victim to poor timing. It was released in March of 2021, when the world was still struggling with the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s a shame, because Raya and the Last Dragon is worthy of being called a classic. It tells a complex story about how trust is difficult and even dangerous, but at the same time, it is necessary to forge friendships and build nations. The characters are quirky and fun, and the animation is stunning. There’s also a baby thief. No, I’m not kidding.
5. Atlantis: The Lost Empire
Disney did something really different with this movie, thus making it in the 5 Disney movies list. It featured a bold new art style, an action-packed story, and an edgy tone. Unfortunately, some audiences dismissed it as being too different from Disney’s usual format. However, those who didn’t write it off could find a lot to appreciate. The battles are epic, the large cast of characters are likable, and the visuals are a treat to look at. Like Treasure Planet, Atlantis has gained an online cult following over the years, but it still has yet to be recognized by mainstream audiences.
Conclusion
As stated before, picking only 5 Disney movies that need more love isn’t easy, since the Disney animated canon has so many great films that don’t get the recognition they deserve. Exploring Disney’s vast collection of animated features is definitely worth the journey. Whether you enjoy fairytale-style musicals or action-adventure movies, you will probably find something to like among Disney’s lesser-known movies.
