Disney is a true entertainment juggernaut that has built a reputation for producing some of the best films ever across the board, from live-action to timeless animated classics. From spelling-binding fairytales to modern takes on whimsical stories, it’s rare for a Disney film not to blast off straight from release to critical acclaim and box office success. However, in the past decade, there have been a few Disney releases that haven’t received the same fanfare as their iconic franchises, receiving a mixed reception when first put in front of audiences.
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Part of this can be put down to the film itself, but most can be attributed to the enormous expectations and intense comparisons from Disney’s best ever films that cast an unfair shadow on these recent releases. Films like Ralph Breaks the Internet, and Onward may have opened to mixed reviews, but they still hold all the weight of a Disney classic, showing incredible storytelling with emotional and entertaining themes. These Disney films showcase the same intriguing characters and stellar visuals as their more popular counterparts, and should be much more celebrated and appreciated than their initial criticism suggests.
10 Wish (2023)
Starring Ariana DeBose And Chris Pine
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3/10 Wish PGAdventureComedyFantasy
Wish is a Disney animated adventure/fantasy comedy that follows Asha, a young girl from the kingdom of Rosas who wants nothing more than to care for the people of her home. One night, Rosa takes a chance to wish upon a star – only to invite a bit of chaos when her prayers are somewhat answered by an energetic cosmic entity known as Star. Together with her goat and this new friend, they’ll set off to save the kingdom from an ambitious king.
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*Availability in US Director Chris Buck , Fawn Veerasunthorn Release Date November 22, 2023 Studio(s) Walt Disney Pictures , Walt Disney Animation Studios Distributor(s) Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures Writers Jennifer Lee , Allison Moore Cast Ariana DeBose , Chris Pine , Alan Tudyk , Dee Bradley Baker , Frank Welker Runtime 95 Mins Expand
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In another magical Disney story, the musical fantasy film Wish tells the story of a 17-year-old girl named Asha, voiced by Ariana DeBose. The plot follows her story as Asha makes a wish on a star so powerful that it is answered by an unstoppable ball of energy called Star that sparks a magical adventure. It combines some of the best elements of both modern Disney and the Disney of old to create a heartwarming tale that also packs in some action, as Asha needs to face her kingdom’s devious emperor, Magnifico.
Related 10 Disney Movies That Just Hit Different As An Adult
When revisiting these classic films as an adult, the emotional truths of the stories are even more impactful, often bringing a tear to the eye.
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Wish featured an ensemble cast of talented actors who lend their skills and voice to the film, such as DeBose, Chris Pine, and Evan Peters. While it was initially critiqued for a predictable plot without Disney’s usual flair, it still has a charming narrative that plays out well at a measured and intriguing pace with a memorable cast of characters. The film’s earnestness and relatively simple plot may have initially been detracting, but over time, it’s this premise, with the basics done excellently, that makes it such a brilliant film and one that deserves more appreciation.
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9 Lightyear (2022)
Starring Chris Evans And Keke Palmer
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6/10 Lightyear PGAnimationActionAdventure
Disney Pixar branches the Toy Story franchise off with Lightyear, a story that centers around a human version of the Buzz Lightyear toy and his missions with Star command. Set during an exploration mission, Lightyear and his crew are attacked during a scouting mission by alien lifeforms and find themselves stranded on an unknown planet. To help get everyone home, Lightyear volunteers on a dangerous mission to test pilot their means home. However, each test light passes time and the characters age in his absence.
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*Availability in US Director Angus MacLane Release Date June 8, 2022 Studio(s) Walt Disney Pictures , Pixar Animation Studios Distributor(s) Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures Writers Jason Headley , Angus MacLane Cast Chris Evans , Keke Palmer , Peter Sohn , Taika Waititi , Dale Soules , James Brolin , Uzo Aduba Runtime 105 Minutes Expand
In a film that saw Disney take a calculated risk, Lightyear is a spin-off of one of its most popular franchises of all time (in Toy Story), showing the origins and backstory of one of its main stars, Buzz Lightyear. The film is uniquely presented as a ‘film within a film’ as it follows the titular Buzz as he travels on an intergalactic mission with a new crew who must battle the evil Zurg and his menacing robot army. The spin-off has an intriguing premise, and it moves away from its predecessor, both in terms of storytelling and animation style.
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In another move away from the original, Buzz isn’t voiced by the legendary Tim Allen like in the main franchise, but instead, Chris Evans takes on the role of the Space Ranger. Critics have widely debated if Lightyear works as its own standalone film, or if it is a character and idea that only shines in the larger framework surrounded by the usual cast of characters. Though there was some initial skepticism, the deep exploration of a main character of one of Disney’s most successful film series has been deemed a success, with its compelling performances and heroic storyline.
8 Strange World (2022)
Starring Jake Gyllenhall And Dennis Quaid
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3.5/10 Strange World PGAnimationAdventureComedy
Strange World is a new film from Walt Disney Animation Studios and director Don Hall that follows the exploits of a three-generations-deep family of adventurers known as the Clade family. The family is in search of a mysterious creature little is known about, but to traverse the treacherous and uncharted land, the family will have to put aside their generational differences and work together to survive ravenous creatures, devious traps, and most of all, each other.
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*Availability in US Director Don Hall Release Date November 23, 2022 Studio(s) Disney Distributor(s) Disney Writers Qui Nguyen Cast Jake Gyllenhaal , Dennis Quaid , Jaboukie Young-White , Gabrielle Union , Lucy Liu , Alan Tudyk Runtime 102 minutes Expand
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Strange World is a sci-fi adventure film that follows a family of explorers with a legendary reputation who must travel to a mystical land called Avalonia that is filled with creatures and unexplored habitats. It features an ensemble cast, including Dennis Quaid and Jake Gyllenhaal as the father and son of the family, as well as Jaboukie Young-White and Lucy Liu. The story is enriched by the generational family dynamics and their interpersonal relationships that really round out and elevate the narrative.
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Disney movies are generally renowned for their wholesome, child-friendly morals, but there are some movies which have questionable messages.
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Though it struggled to make an impact at the Box Office due to a lack of substantial marketing, it still impresses with its imaginative story and creative world that is beautifully constructed and animated. Strange World is a film that has a particular focus on representation and social commentary, bringing together a diverse cast of characters who delve into political and environmental themes throughout the film. The same message that may seem too overdone for some viewers may well be its greatest strength, as it nails the fine line between preaching and telling a layered and intricate story.
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7 Strange Magic (2015)
Starring Alan Cumming And Evan Rachel Wood
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Strange Magic PGFamilyAnimationFantasy
Strange Magic is an animated musical fantasy film directed by Gary Rydstrom and produced by Lucasfilm. Released in 2015, it centers on two contrasting realms: the Fairy Kingdom and the Dark Forest, embroiled in a struggle for a powerful potion. The story follows Marianne, the fairy princess, and a cast of whimsical characters through a journey of love, adventure, and unexpected friendships.
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*Availability in US Director Gary Rydstrom Release Date January 23, 2015 Writers Gary Rydstrom , Irene Mecchi , David Berenbaum Cast Kristin Chenoweth , Maya Rudolph , Alan Cumming , Elijah Kelley , Evan Rachel Wood Main Genre Animation
Though Disney is known predominantly for its original classics, it can still take inspiration from one of the greatest playwrights of all time, William Shakespeare. Strange Magic is a musical fantasy based on a story by George Lucas (Star Wars) that was inspired by A Midsummer Night’s Dream, which follows the ruler of the Dark Forest, the Bog King, and Marianne, a fiery fairy princess. The Bog King hates love, but he begins to change his mind when he meets the captivating princess in a unique story that features many twists, turns, and covers of modern pop songs.
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Lucas had been working on developing this project for 15 years as a film created for his three daughters, and it feels like a film that has had such dedication put into it. Though the film did not open to good reviews, with criticism of song choices and formulaic storytelling, the film overall is a high-energy, family-friendly work that is beautifully directed with a heartfelt and emotional story. While not as celebrated as many of Disney’s other more conventional films, its unusual and quirky elements that combine humor, music, and fantasy may be the aspects that elevate it the most.
6 Cars 3 (2017)
Starring Owen Wilson And Cristela Alonzo
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6.7/10 Cars 3 GAnimationAdventureComedyFamily
Cars 3 is the third film in Disney/Pixar’s popular franchise centering on anthropomorphic talking cars. This time, Brian Fee takes over directing duties with a story following Lightning McQueen as he tries to prove that he’s still the best in the racing game. Owen Wilson returns as the voice of Lightning, along with Larry the Cable Guy as the lovable Mater.
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*Availability in US Director Brian Fee Release Date June 16, 2017 Studio(s) Disney Distributor(s) Disney Writers Brian Fee , Ben Queen , Eyal Podell , Jonathon E. Stewart , Kiel Murray , Bob Peterson Cast Owen Wilson , Bonnie Hunt , Armie Hammer , Lea DeLaria , Nathan Fillion , Kerry Washington , Cheech Marin , Cristela Alonzo , Chris Cooper , Larry the Cable Guy , Margo Martindale , Tony Shalhoub , Jenifer Lewis Runtime 109minutes Expand
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Directed by Brian Fee in his directorial debut, the iconic racer Lightning McQueen returns in the third film in the wildly successful Cars franchise. In this film, McQueen, who, after two previous cinematic outings, is now a veteran of the raceway, must prove that he can handle the younger newcomers with their advanced technology and beat them at their own game. The amazing Owen Wilson reprises his role as the distinctive voice of McQueen, as the cast combines new and old characters to create a unique story about legacy and adaption.
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The 10 Best Disney Films Better Than Their Initial Reception: |
IMDb Rating: |
|---|---|
|
Wish (2023) |
5.6/10 |
|
Lightyear (2022) |
6.1/10 |
|
Strange World (2022) |
5.7/10 |
|
Strange Magic (2015) |
5.8/10 |
|
Cars 3 (2017) |
6.7/10 |
|
Planes: Fire & Rescue (2014) |
5.9/10 |
|
The Good Dinosaur (2015) |
6.7/10 |
|
Ralph Breaks the Internet (2018) |
7.0/10 |
|
Elemental (2023) |
7.0/10 |
|
Onward (2020) |
7.4/10 |
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Though Cars 3 could be initially marked down as just another ‘cash grab’ big-budget sequel to a massive franchise, it could be the most inventive and emotional film of the series. With Lightning McQueen’s age and ability starting to slow, there are moments of real poignancy and emotion as he battles with times passing him by and the passing of the torch to a new generation of cars he helped inspire. The voice acting is stellar throughout the cast as they accurately convey the character development and somber moments that help punctuate the usual exciting racing sequences and entertaining storyline.
5 Planes: Fire & Rescue (2014)
Starring Dane Cook And Stacy Keach
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Planes: Fire & Rescue tv-14Adventure
Planes: Fire & Rescue is the 2014 sequel to the Disney movie Planes, a spinoff of the Cars movies. The film follows Dusty, a plane who becomes a firefighter and joins a team to protect a national park from a wildfire.
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*Availability in US Director Roberts Gannaway Release Date July 15, 2014 Studio(s) Disney Distributor(s) Disney Writers Roberts Gannaway Cast Ed Harris , Julie Bowen Runtime 83minutes Expand
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Written and directed by Bobs Gannaway, Planes: Fire & Rescue is a sequel to Planes (2013) which itself is a spin-off from the incredibly successful Cars franchise. In this installment, the main character, Dusty Crophopper, trades in racing for wildland firefighting after being tasked to help out the Piston Peak National Park, which produces some gorgeous, scenic, animated landscapes. The film expertly explores Dusty’s decision to change roles after he learns his gearbox is damaged, and the implications that it has on his own life and ambitions.
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Some Disney animated films either lack the magical touch that makes them feel on-brand, or take things a tad too dark for the House of Mouse.
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A sequel of a spin-off might seem like a project too far removed from the greatness it started from, but nothing could be further from the truth. The cast of Planes: Fire & Rescue does an excellent job, from the lead characters to the minor roles, and the storyline and character development throughout create an uplifting and positive message. The film has been criticized for its formulaic and relatively safe approach to its story, and while it doesn’t exactly break new ground, it excels in the basics, which is sometimes the hardest thing to do, and creates an entertaining, family film.
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4 The Good Dinosaur (2015)
Starring Raymond Ochoa And Jack Bright
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5.3/10 The Good Dinosaur PGFamilyAnimation
Pixar’s The Good Dinosaur is an animated adventure film that examines an alternate scenario if the asteroid that made the dinosaurs extinct never happened. After a traumatic event, teenage Apatosaurus Arlo must find his way home and travel through unknown and dangerous lands. Along his journey, he finds a young boy who was stealing grains from his family’s farm. Despite their language barrier, the two become friends and work together to survive their grand journey.
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*Availability in US Director Peter Sohn Release Date November 25, 2015 Studio(s) Disney Distributor(s) Disney Writers Bob Peterson , Enrico Casarosa Cast Bill Hader , Neil Patrick Harris , Lucas Neff , John Lithgow , Frances McDormand , Judy Greer Runtime 93MINUTES Expand
In his feature-length directorial debut, director Peter Sohn shows an unusually composed and mature hand in the prehistoric adventure The Good Dinosaur. The film’s plot explores an alternative timeline of history where some dinosaurs didn’t become extinct, exploring the relationship between a young Apatosaurus named Arlo, who lives on a farm, and his human friend Spot. Once again, featuring an ensemble cast that voices the characters perfectly with all the charm and invention in a story that really tugs at the heartstrings.
Sometimes, simply the timing of a film’s release can play the biggest role in its success, with it, unfortunately, being released in the same year as
Inside Out
, which went on to become one of Disney’s biggest successes in recent years.
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Sometimes, simply the timing of a film’s release can play the biggest role in its success, with it, unfortunately, being released in the same year as Inside Out, which went on to become one of Disney’s biggest successes in recent years. In comparison, The Good Dinosaur seemed to underwhelm audiences upon its run; even though it offered a rich story about friendship and self-discovery, it failed to resonate and cross over to critical acclaim. While not a larger-than-life film in any aspect, it’s a quieter, reflective film that rewards those who enjoy simple, quality storytelling and characters with beautiful animation.
3 Ralph Breaks The Internet (2018)
Starring John C. Reilly And Sarah Silverman
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5.7/10 Ralph Breaks the Internet PGAnimationAdventureComedy
Six years after Ralph and Vanellope defeat King Candy, the dynamic duo discover a Wifi router, which they use to buy a new steering wheel for Vanellope’s Sugar Rush game. John C. Reilly and Sarah Silverman return as Ralph and Vanellope, with stars Gal Gadot, Alfred Molina, and Taraji P. Henson joining the cast for the sequel.
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*Availability in US Director Rich Moore , Phil Johnston Release Date November 21, 2018 Studio(s) Walt Disney Pictures , Walt Disney Animation Studios Distributor(s) Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures Writers Pamela Ribon , Phil Johnston Cast John C. Reilly , Sarah Silverman , Alan Tudyk , Jane Lynch , Ed O’Neill , Taraji P. Henson , Jack McBrayer , Gal Gadot Runtime 112 Minutes Expand
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Ralph Breaks the Internet is the sequel to the mega-hit Wreck-It Ralph, once again directed by Rich Moore with help, this time from Phil Johnston. The sequel follows Ralph and his friend Vanellope von Schweetzas as they travel to the Internet to find a replacement steering wheel for Vanellope’s game Sugar Rush to prevent Mr. Litawk, the arcade owner, from destroying the game. All the voice actors reprise their roles, with John C. Reilly, Sarah Silverman, and Ed O’Neill all picking up where they left off, creating an intricate and heartfelt weaving of storylines.
Related 10 Best Plot Twists In Disney Movies
Some of the best Disney plot twists elevate movies including Frozen, Coco, Cruella, and Pirates of the Caribbean by subverting narrative expectations.
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While, in general, there’s a preconceived notion that it’s hard for a sequel to live up to the original in conventional cinema, Disney seems to have the framework and formula to produce some of the best sequels of all time. Though some of the jokes and meta references could be noted as potentially not having a long shelf life, Ralph Breaks the Internet does an excellent job of combining nostalgia and self-awareness with genuine issues of identity and values. The film blends several intricate subplots together, which, combined with its humor and action sequences, create a compelling and underappreciated work.
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2 Elemental (2023)
Starring Leah Lewis And Mamoudou Athie
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8/10 Elemental pgAnimationAdventureComedy
Pixar’s Elemental focuses on the residents of Elemental City, who are all made of land, air, water, or fire. Originally thinking that elements can’t mix thanks to her father, Ember Lumen (Leah Lewis) sets out on a journey with Wade Ripple (Mamoudou Athie) to see the world in a whole new light. Also starring is Catherine O’Hara as Brook Ripple, Wade’s mother, and Ronnie del Carmen as Bernie, Ember’s father.
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*Availability in US Director Peter Sohn Release Date June 16, 2023 Studio(s) Disney Distributor(s) Disney Writers Brenda Hsueh , John Hoberg , Kat Likkel Cast Leah Lewis , Mamoudou Athie , Catherine O’Hara , Ronnie del Carmen , Wendi McLendon-Covey Runtime 93 Minutes Expand
Starring Leah Lewis, Mamoudou Athie, and Ronnie del Carmen as some of the leading voices, Elemental is a unique blend of romance, comedy, and drama directed by Peter Sohn (The Good Dinosaur). It is set in a place where fire, water, earth, and air all peacefully co-exist, mainly focusing on the anthropomorphic relationship between the fire element Ember Lumen and water element Wade Ripple as they aim to save a local store. The film does an excellent job of giving life and personality to the unusual characters, and the world built around them is exceptionally done.
Elemental
grossed $496.4 million on a budget of £200 million, being described as a sleeper hit, due to the fact it opened below projections but ultimately profited well.
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Criticism of the film was fairly harsh on initial release, with a widely held belief that the film’s themes were too heavy, and the story failed to capture Disney’s usual magic. Though the film does have a deeper message and has lofty ambitions for its storyline, the film does what Disney does best in providing a layered, emotional narrative told in a unique way with stunning visuals and memorable characters. After its initial reception, Elemental has gained a newfound appreciation, with a general consensus that it is one of Disney’s most resonating films in the past few years.
1 Onward (2020)
Starring Tom Holland And Chris Pratt
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9/10 Onward PGComedyAnimationAdventure
Pixar’s Onward takes place in a land filled with mythical creatures. It concerns the story of brothers Ian (Tom Holland) and Barley (Chris Pratt), who learn that their long-lost father had unlocked the ancient power of magic, something long rendered obsolete by technological advances. The brothers learn they have just 24 hours to resurrect their father and set off on a magical quest across the land to reunite their family.
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*Availability in US Director Dan Scanlon Release Date March 6, 2020 Studio(s) Disney Distributor(s) Disney Writers Dan Scanlon Cast Julia Louis-Dreyfus , Octavia Spencer , Chris Pratt2 , Tom Holland Runtime 103 minutes Expand
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Directed by the capable hands of Dan Scanlon (Monsters University), Onward is a fantasy adventure film starring Tom Holland and Chris Pratt, who voice the lead roles of two elf brothers named Ian and Barley Lightfoot. It follows the two brothers as they embark on a journey to retrieve a powerful artifact that will grant them the power to revive their father, who passed away, for just twenty-four hours. The two leading stars bring a compassion and unique bond to their roles that really elevates but also powerfully grounds the narrative, exploring complex themes of family, loss, and memories.
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Leading the entertainment industry with skillful animation and storytelling, Disney has produced several great films in their 100 years.
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Onward was really knocked back at its release due to issues associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, so it mostly flew under the radar when it first came out. The film rests firmly on the chemistry between Holland and Pratt, which is exceptional throughout, combined with the heartfelt story, epic world-building, and intense dialogue that forms a cohesive Disney classic. It builds up to an incredible final ten minutes that are heartwarming, gut-wrenching, and beautiful all at the same time, producing one of Disney’s best films in modern times to ever have a slow start upon release.
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