Top 50 Best Disney Musicals Of All Time

 

Disney is one of the few movie production companies in the world whose cinematic arsenal is full of some of the best live-action and animated features of all time.

 

Needless to mention, when we babble about musicals, titles that usually race to mind are the ones that have been bankrolled by Disney across its century-long run.

 

In fact, many of the finest musical classics in the cinematic universe happen to be outstanding animated projects backed by the studio.

 

Therefore, it wouldn’t be an exaggeration to assert that the genre of animated musicals has gone on to become synonymous with the studio ever since its inception.

 

And, thankfully for the fans of Disney, the undeniably successful formula of blending memorable songs with mythical storytelling does not seem to be in the mood to wane anytime in the future.

 

Therefore, today, we are now going to cast a light on some of the best Disney musicals that have managed to keep their tremendous fan following intact courtesy of their brilliant execution and memorable soundtrack.

 

 

 

1. The Lion King (1994)

 

 

 

Directed by Rob Minkoff and Roger Allers, this classic animated musical drama film comprised some of the most recognizable songs of the 1990s.

 

Even though its sequels have managed to mint money, the 1994 version of The Lion King continues to remain just as good today as it was when it hit the screens.

 

The film follows the journey of a cub named Simba, who is compelled to leave the Pride Lands after his father, Mufasa, is betrayed and slaughtered by his crooked uncle Scar.

 

However, years later, a daring Simba returns as a young lion to reclaim his throne. The fact that this film has had a lasting impact on popular culture speaks volumes about its cult following.

 

The storyline makes you feel for the characters, which also goes on to say a lot about its writing. The film thrives on emotions encircling family drama, humour, and great animation and songs.

 

Matter of fact, you can find several film critics and fans claiming that it pretty much is the Citizen Kane of Disney animation. Therefore, it is not in the least bit surprising that it was the highest-grossing motion picture of 1994.

 

 

 

2. Coco (2017)

 

 

 

Given the fact that this well-regarded Disney animated musical uses music as a backdrop, it is only fitting to include it in our piece.

 

The film traces the journey of Miguel; a guy who lives and breathes music and continues to pursue his love for signing despite his family’s objections.

 

Sooner than later, Miguel comes across the Land of the Dead and learns about his great-great-grandfather who was a celebrated vocalist.

 

One of the top-grossing animated films of all time, Coco paid a praiseworthy tribute to Mexican culture and traditions. That being said, it also showcases the importance of trying to respect and remember those who came before us within our respective clans.

 

A delightful ride from the beginning until the very end, Coco does its best to reward its viewers with its solid execution. Its first-rate voice acting, vibrant animation, and fully-formed characters take you through a journey you wouldn’t want to return from.

 

The National Board of Review called it the Best Animated Film of 2017.

 

 

 

3. Beauty and the Beast (1991)

 

 

 

The first animated feature film to be nominated for Best Picture at the Academy Awards, Beauty and the Beast is a trendsetting Disney musical drama in more ways than one.

 

The story follows a gorgeous young woman called Belle, who makes the tough decision to live with the Beast in exchange for the return of her kidnapped father.

 

However, the girl’s mindset soon alters as she discovers that the ignorant and dreadful Beast is, actually, a really good-looking prince.

 

This animated musical romantic fantasy film is based on the 1756 fairy tale of the same name by Jeanne-Marie Leprince de Beaumont.

 

Needless to say, we get to see some wonderful designs of French settings and characters as the story progresses. That being said, this age-old tale derives its strength from its ageless and universal message, which manages to strike a chord with its audience even today.

 

A perfect blend of music, animation, and wonderful storytelling, it earned the Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy.

 

It was the first animated feature film to win in that category.

 

 

 

4. Aladdin (1992)

 

 

 

Aladdin was a brave attempt to blend CGI animation into a traditional 2D film; a technique that several feature films followed by the end of the 20th century.

 

The film takes the classic Disney princess formula and strengthens it with a great adventure story to tell. It tracks the journey of a common thief named Aladdin, who falls deeply in love with Princess Jasmine.

 

However, just like most timeless love stories in the world, Aladdin has its complications as well. Since he is not a prince, he cannot be allowed to marry Jasmine.

 

Meanwhile, a royal vizier, Jafar, recruits Aladdin to procure a magical lamp. However, unbeknownst to him, Jafar has a hidden plan in place.

 

All thanks to the extraordinary vocal skills of the great Robin Williams, this animated classic is provided with a definitive edge and a sharp sense of humor.

 

 

5. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

 

 

 

The Nightmare Before Christmas stands out from the rest in the crowd courtesy of its strategy to employ stop motion animation and present it in a story as dark and fantastical as this.

 

A cult classic that is often revisited by its many fans across the globe, this Tim Burton directorial venture has gone on to become a multi-holiday staple.

 

The motion picture follows the journey of a being from Halloween Town, Jack Skellington, who finds his way into Christmas Town.

 

After seeing the festive vibe of the town, Jack quickly becomes obsessed with it. However, things go out of control when his infatuation with X-mas provokes him to kidnap Santa Claus himself.

 

Even though The Nightmare Before Christmas thrives on its innovative art form, it is the inspiring music by Danny Elfman that makes it a fulfilling cinematic experience.

 

 

6. Mary Poppins (1964)

 

 

 

Even though many consider Beauty and the Beast to be the ultimate masterpiece among Disney’s animated musicals, Mary Poppins has to be among its finest live-action musical dramas to have ever hit the screens.

 

This Robert Stevenson directorial venture is a seamless mixture of animation and live-action. While the film stars the iconic Julie Andrews in her debut role, she is well-supported by actors such as Dick Van Dyke, David Tomlinson, and Glynis Johns in the cast.

 

The story follows the journey of Mr. Banks, who happens to be looking for a nanny for his two very naughty kids.

 

His search comes to an end as he stumbles upon the fascinating Mary Poppins. However, instead of being strict with the kids, the angelic Mary changes their lives in the best possible manner.

 

This wholesome family entertainer, which thrives on its comedic sequences and great music, is the answer to those film fans who claim that they are not really fond of Disney musicals.

 

 

7. Fantasia (1940)

 

 

 

One of Disney’s most audacious screen experiments, Fantasia was an animated musical anthology film that was originally released as a theatrical roadshow that was organized in 13 cities across the United States of America between 1940-1941.

 

Arguably the most unique project in the history of animation, this film blends animated imagery with classical music with near protection. Needless to say, it surprised people with its animation technique when they tried to sit through it when it first hit the screen.

 

The fact that the makers blended the animation with classical music only helped the movie in its overall execution. There is a reason why many people consider the project to be one of Disney’s OG animated classics.

 

Unfortunately for the makers though, it could not perform to its full potential at the box office due to the onslaught of the Second World War.

 

Although, over the years, Fantasia has gone on to receive wider acclaim from ardent fans of the studio.

 

 

8. Tangled (2010)

 

 

 

Partially based on the German fairy tale Rapunzel from the rich assortment of folk tales published by the Brothers Grimm, this 3D computer-animated musical adventure fantasy comedy film was Disney’s 50th animation project.

 

Tangled chronicles the journey of a young and naive princess named Rapunzel, who aspires to flee her secluded tower.

 

Even though her foster mother is against it, she accepts an intruder’s assistance to take her out and witness the world that she has not had the privilege to see and comprehend thus far.

 

One of the most expensive animated flicks of all time, Tangled was praised for its writing, characters, and musical score.

 

 

9. Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs (1937)

 

 

 

Based on the 1812 German fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm, Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs had the privilege to be the first Disney animated feature film.

 

The story tracks the tumultuous journey of a princess named Snow White, who, after having been exiled by her evil stepmother, runs into a forest.

 

However, things start falling into place for the girl after she is rescued by seven dwarfs. Sooner than later, she ends up befriending them.

 

Aside from its characters, this feature film is known for comprising numerous soft musical numbers. Ranked among the 100 greatest American films by the American Film Institute, Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs is one of the most culturally significant motion pictures of all time.

 

 

10. Moana (2016)

 

 

 

Directed by Ron Clements and John Musker, Moana is a computer-animated musical adventure feature film that is based on the Polynesian culture.

 

Therefore, multiple languages and Polynesian instruments have been used to record the melodies to keep the authenticity of the movie intact.

 

Not only does the music paint a vibrant picture of Moana’s world but it also helps in the advancement of the characters.

 

The story of the film follows the brave daughter of a Polynesian village chief, Moana, who undertakes a journey to reunite a mystical relic with the goddess Te Fiti.

 

It is decided that she will embark on the mission after the plants and the fish on her island start perishing due to a blight.

 

The feature film opened to positive reviews and was a bumper success at the global box office.

 

 

11. The Little Mermaid (1989)

 

 

 

Helmed by John Musker and Ron Clements, The Little Mermaid is credited with restarting Disney’s run of animation masterpieces, especially after a string of mediocre releases during the 1980s.

 

Banking on the sturdy vocal performance by Jodi Benson and a fantastic antagonist, the animated film also relies heavily on the music by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken; one that has managed to stand the test of time.

 

The story traces the journey of the mermaid Princess Ariel and sea witch Ursula as the latter strikes a tricky deal with the former by permitting her to meet Eric, the human prince she adores.

 

However, Ariel is not exactly aware of the witch’s true intentions and, consequently, ends up landing in trouble that is as deep as her admiration for Eric.

 

The Little Mermaid was praised for its animation, music, and characters, and was both a critical and commercial success.

 

 

12. The Jungle Book (1967)

 

 

 

Based on Rudyard Kipling’s 1894 book of the same name, The Jungle Book was helmed for the screen by Wolfgang Reitherman.

 

The film tracks the journey of a young boy named Mowgli, who has grown up in the company of wolves.

 

However, when a man-eating tiger attempts to terrorize him, Mowgli’s beloved animal family does its best to persuade him to escape the jungle and start a new life with the humans in the village.

 

One of Disney’s most original productions, The Jungle Book was a box office success. Its eventual VHS release also sold millions of units upon its release.

 

 

13. Mulan (1998)

 

 

 

Produced and released during the Disney Renaissance, Mulan is an animated musical action drama film that is based on the Chinese legend of Hua Mulan.

 

Its story tracks the audacious journey of Mulan; a young girl who is troubled to learn that her fragile father is being compelled to enlist in the army in order to combat the invading Huns.

 

However, Mulan goes a step ahead and decides to disguise herself as her father and, subsequently, joins the army on his behalf.

 

The film’s plot and characters were appreciated by critics and it was nominated for and won several awards upon its theatrical release.

 

 

14. Pinocchio (1940)

 

 

 

One of Disney’s earliest animated feature films, Pinocchio’s box office prospects were hampered due to the euphoria surrounding the Second World War.

 

However, the film turned out to be a resounding hit at the ticket windows upon its re-release in 1945.

 

The film tracks the journey of Pinocchio, a marionette, who is given the chance to transform into a real boy.

 

However, before earning the right to become real, he has to first prove that he is selfless, honest, and courageous; all in equal measure.

 

Pinocchio, whose characters continue to remain relevant in popular culture, is considered to be among the greatest animated Disney musicals of all time.

 

 

15. Encanto (2021)

 

 

This computer-animated musical fantasy-comedy flick tracks the journey of a multigenerational Colombian family that has been blessed with magical powers, all thanks to a great miracle.

 

However, a teenage member of the family has been left without powers. While this certainly frustrates her, it also allows the viewer to get pulled into her story.

 

Despite having been released during the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, Encanto was a success story at the box office. The film was praised for its emotional depth, music, voice acting, and characterization.

 

Furthermore, its songs went on to top the US Billboard 200 and UK Compilation Albums charts.

 

 

16. The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh (1977)

 

 

 

All thanks to the beloved The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, its theme song has continued to reverberate in the ears of thousands of children for decades now.

 

This animated musical anthology feature tells the story of the lovable bear Pooh and his closest pals as they embark on an epic adventure of singing, dancing, and chasing bees through the woods.

 

What makes this feature film special is the fact that it is the narrator, and not the individual characters, who does all the singing.

 

The characters of this film went on to sell merchandise worth millions of dollars in markets the world over.

 

 

17. Frozen (2013)

 

 

 

This computer-animated musical fantasy feature film is inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale “The Snow Queen”. The film follows Anna, who embarks on a journey with iceman Kristoff and his reindeer, Sven, to look for her estranged sister Elsa.

 

Elsa carries the unmatched ability to transform any object or person into ice as and when she needs to.

 

Directed by Chris Buck and Jennifer Lee, this feature film may come across as a tad cliched but it does what it set out to do, which is deliver entertainment that can be enjoyed by the whole family together.

 

Many film critics admitted in their reviews that Frozen is, in fact, Disney’s finest musical animation feature to have been released since its renaissance era. It was duly praised for its visuals, themes, and music.

 

 

18. The Jungle Book (2016)

 

 

 

A live-action/CGI remake of Walt Disney’s acclaimed 1967 animated project of the same name, The Jungle Book was both produced and helmed by Jon Favreau.

 

The story follows a young lad named Mowgli, who grows up in the jungle surrounded by a pack of wolves.

 

However, terror soon comes knocking on his door as he is threatened to be murdered by a tiger named Shere Khan.

 

Fortunately for Mowgli, a panther and a bear decide to come to his aid. Mowgli’s journey of self-discovery was told rather well in this movie, which was a fair balance between Rudyard Kipling’s book and the original animated feature film.

 

 

19. Alice in Wonderland (1951)

 

 

 

Alice in Wonderland is an animated musical fantasy-comedy feature film in which each character has been assigned a catchy tune of its own.

 

The film follows a young and inquisitive girl named Alice, who, after following a rabbit down his hole, enters the outlandish world of Wonderland.

 

While this motion picture is best remembered for its visuals, those who have seen it cannot deny the fact that its creatures, who defy logic and reason, make it come across as even more amusing.

 

Since Alice in Wonderland was not a very lengthy feature, it was difficult to incorporate too many songs in its storytelling.

 

However, the makers kept each of the songs short enough to ensure that they don’t eat up the story.

 

 

20. Cinderella (1950)

 

 

 

This animated musical fantasy feature film was based on the fairy tale of the same name by writer Charles Perrault.

 

The story follows a young girl named Cinderella, who dreams of attending the Royal Ball and encountering the Grand Duke.

 

However, after her cruel stepmother comes to stand between her and her dream, a loving Cinderella gets some amazing help from her Fairy Godmother.

 

Cinderella not only gave the world of animation one of its most iconic characters but it also turned out to be the biggest critical and commercial success for Disney since the release of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs back in 1937.

 

A lot of people acknowledge this animated feature because it was able to pull the studio out of bankruptcy following its much-awaited theatrical release.

 

 

21. Beauty and the Beast (2017)

 

 

 

Helmed by Bill Condon, this musical romantic comedy is a live-action adaptation of the iconic 1991 animated Disney feature film of the same title.

 

Starring Emma Watson and Dan Stevens in the lead roles, the film follows a village girl named Belle, who decides to undertake a journey to protect her father from a beast who has him locked in a cell.

 

As the story progress, Belle comes to realize that the seemingly evil creature is, in fact, a prince who has been cursed.

 

The motion picture opened to favorable reviews and ended up grossing over $1.2 billion at the global box office.

 

 

22. Lady and the Tramp (1955)

 

 

 

This animated musical romantic film was based on the 1945 Cosmopolitan magazine story Happy Dan, The Cynical Dog by writer Ward Greene.

 

It tells the story of a female dog named Lady, who starts to feel ignored after Jim and Darling get a baby in the house.

 

Later, when Aunt Sarah pays them a visit along with her twin Siamese cats, Lady is the one who is reprimanded for all the mess that they make.

 

Lady and the Tramp was reportedly one of the first animated films to be filmed in the CinemaScope widescreen process. It has aged reasonably well since its theatrical release back in 1955.

 

 

23. Bambi (1942)

 

 

 

This animated Disney musical film tells the story of a young fawn named Bambi, who is selected to become the next prince of the forest; much like his beloved father.

 

While in the woods, he gets to learn a ton of things about loving and protecting the ones that he truly cares about.

 

Kids found the titular character to be so sweet and adorable that they couldn’t help falling in love with it.

 

Needless to say, the feature film does its best to tell the coming-of-age tale of a deer that many children were able to relate to back in the day.

 

Disney’s fifth animated feature film was nominated at the Academy Awards for one of its songs, sound, and original musical score, respectively.

 

 

24. Tarzan (1999)

 

 

 

Among the last animated feature films to have hit the screens during the Disney Renaissance, Tarzan was the first noteworthy movie version of Tarzan of the Apes; a story by Edgar Rice Burroughs that was published in 1912.

 

The screenplay follows an orphan kid named Tarzan who is raised by mountain gorillas. Soon after, the viewers watch Tarzan bailing a woman explorer Jane.

 

However, after the realization that he is human finally dawns upon him, Tarzan is urged to decide whether to go live with the human civilization or continue his stay of wonder and bewilderment in the jungle.

 

One of the top-grossing movies of 1999, Tarzan was praised for its vocal performances and well-shot animated action sequences.

 

 

25. Raya and the Last Dragon (2021)

 

 

 

This computer-animated fantasy adventure flick follows the journey of a warrior named Raya, who is on a quest to track down Sisu, a dragon.

 

This is because the dragon seems to have transmitted all her powers into a magical gem. Unfortunately for the girl, the gem has been scattered all over the kingdom of Kumandra and has apparently turned its residents against each other.

 

The motion picture, which is based on traditional Southeast Asian cultures, was acclaimed for its vocal performances and animation. It was a fair success at the box office.

 

 

26. Hercules (1997)

 

 

 

Directed by Ron Clements and John Musker, Hercules is an animated fantasy musical drama film that was produced during Disney’s Renaissance period.

 

The film tracks how the son of the Greek god Zeus, Hercules, is transformed into a half-god, half-mortal by the immoral Hades.

 

The legendary hero soon discovers his immortal lineage and is asked by his father to return to Mount Olympus.

 

Even though James Wood’s performance as Hades was praised, the film’s animation and music received mixed reviews from critics.

 

While the film was not an outright flop, it did end up underperforming at the ticket counters.

 

 

27. Peter Pan (1953)

 

 

 

One of Disney’s best-remembered animated musical feature films, Peter Pan tells the story of its titular character and his companion Tinker Bell, who happens to be a fairy.

 

The duo decides to take siblings Wendy, John, and Michael along with them to the island of Never Land; a place where a certain Captain Hook is planning to get his revenge on Peter Pan.

 

The motion picture was praised for its use of colors and the apt synchronization of voices with their characters.

 

Add to that the fact that this incredibly picturesque experience was aided by its decent music.

 

 

28. Dumbo (1941)

 

 

 

This animated fantasy musical feature film traces the journey of an adorable elephant named Dumbo. Since Dumbo has enormous ears, he is often poked fun at by others.

 

However, after a small but smart mouse makes a dynamic entry into his life, Dumbo gets motivated to take control of things and, consequently, starts using his large ears to his advantage.

 

Often considered to be among the finest animated motion pictures to have ever been released by Disney, Dumbo was a sweet and simple tale that continues to retain its timeless charm. It is also one of Disney’s shortest mainstream feature films.

 

 

29. Sleeping Beauty (1959)

 

 

 

Sleeping Beauty is another Disney animated musical feature film that derives its inspiration from a written work. It is based on the 1697 fairy tale of the same name by Charles Perrault.

 

The film tracks the journey of a newborn princess who is cursed by a witch to expire on her 16th birthday.

 

Lucky for her, a fairy comes to her aid and amends the curse. The change, however, can only become a reality when the princess goes into a deep slumber and is awakened by the kiss of her true lover.

 

It was one of the first animated films to be photographed using the Super Technirama 70 widescreen process.

 

 

30. The Muppets (2011)

 

 

 

This James Bobin directorial venture features actors such as Jason Segel, Amy Adams, Chris Cooper, and Rashida Jones in pivotal roles.

 

It is a musical comedy that premiered at the Savannah Film Festival. The story of the motion picture follows three fans, namely named Gary, Mary, and Walter, who set out to reunite the Muppets.

 

Their sole aim is to protect the Muppet Theater from demolition. However, they are entitled to look for each one of the Muppets for all of them seem to have now faded into oblivion.

 

Its song, “Man or Muppet”, ended up grabbing the Academy Award for Best Original Song, and the film was both a critical and commercial hit.

 

 

31. Enchanted (2007)

 

 

 

This live-action/animated musical fantasy romantic comedy film is unique in its own way. Not only does it pay a tribute to Disney’s conventional animated features but it also, in many ways, is a self-parody of the same.

 

The story follows Princess Giselle, who has been ousted from her kingdom by her lover’s cruel stepmother. Soon after the incident, she is transported to the real world.

 

There, she chances upon a charming lawyer and finds herself falling for him in no time. Besides having won three Saturn Awards for Best Fantasy Film, Best Actress, and Best Music, Enchanted is also credited with turning Amy Adams into a Hollywood leading lady.

 

 

32. Winnie the Pooh (2011)

 

 

 

This animated musical adventure comedy film was a revival of Disney’s Winnie the Pooh franchise and an admirable attempt to update 1977’s The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh.

 

The film showcases how, one fine day, Winnie the Pooh wakes up to find that he is out of honey.

 

Things get even more bizarre after he discovers that not only has Eeyore lost his tail but Christopher Robin has also been captured by Backson.

 

Even though it was not a commercial blockbuster, Winnie the Pooh received favorable feedback from both the critics and the audience alike, courtesy of the undeniable nostalgia attached to it.

 

 

33. Anastasia (1997)

 

 

 

Based on the legend of Grand Duchess Anastasia, this animated alternate historical musical drama film traces the turbulent life journey of Anastasia.

 

It shows how, after seeing her clan get mercilessly slaughtered, Anastasia somehow manages to get out alive. Even though her memories are still vague, the girl decides to travel to Paris with two cons, who are more than willing to present her as the real princess and reap its benefits.

 

While the feature film was admired for its animation and soundtrack, a few film analyzers did berate it for its fantastical retelling of the Grand Duchess.

 

 

34. The Little Mermaid (2023)

 

 

The Little Mermaid offers most things you expect from a trademark Disney feature. It banks on its dazzling underwater visuals and decent performances to indulge you in its mystery.

 

However, the cinematography, surprisingly, comes off as a little less bright, especially in scenes where the colors should have shined even more.

 

That said, the motion picture’s soundtrack is sparked by nostalgia that reminds you why you may have fallen for its timeless tale in the first place. A treat for ardent Disney fans.

 

 

35. The Princess and the Frog (2009)

 

 

 

This animated musical fantasy romantic comedy feature film is loosely based on the 2002 novel, The Frog Princess, by E. D. Baker.

 

It traces the journey of a young and hardworking waitress named Tiana, who embarks on a gleeful adventure after having kissed a frog prince who can’t wait to transform into a human again.

 

Directed by John Musker and Ron Clements, this commercially successful Disney feature film was appreciated for its themes, music, and characters.

 

The Princess and the Frog was filmed in the Broadway-musical style format popular during Disney’s renaissance period.

 

 

36. Fantasia 2000 (1999)

 

 

 

Fantasia 2000 is an experimental concert film that aims to thrive on the ideas generated by the original version in 1940.

 

The project was praised for its inclusion of classical melodies that are coupled with commendable animated sequences. Even though it serves as an update to the original flick, Fantasia 2000 holds its own in terms of its set pieces and imagination.

 

While it is not your conventional Disney musical, it will surely be appreciated by viewers who enjoy great taste in music.

 

Also, it was the first animated feature film to have been released in IMAX format in theatres the world over.

 

 

37. The Aristocats (1970)

 

 

 

The Aristocats is a musical comedy feature whose plot revolves around a family of aristocratic cats. Directed by Wolfgang Reitherman, it traces the journey of four cats that belong to a retired old lady who is living a luxurious life in Paris.

 

However, things take an awful turn when the lady’s greedy butler abducts the cats. Unfortunately for him though, a bunch of retired army dogs and a stray cat are willing to go the distance to ensure that the kidnapping does not succeed.

 

A critical and commercial success at the box office, The Aristocats is a fun-laden ride that thrives on the undeniable humor, strong characterization, and pleasant tunes embedded into its screenplay.

 

 

38. Turning Red (2022)

 

 

This Pixar-Disney collaboration is a computer-animated fantasy comedy musical film that has been helmed by Domee Shi in her directorial debut.

 

The movie tries to replicate the real-life journey of most teenagers who seem to be coming of age. It tells the story of a 13-year-old girl, Mei Lee, who cannot decide between being an obedient daughter and following the chaotic nature of her youth.

 

If things weren’t already too much to handle for her, it is revealed that she turns into a big red panda whenever she happens to get overexcited about anything.

 

Turning Red opened to positive reviews from critics who praised its humor and heartwarming storyline.

 

 

39. The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996)

 

 

 

Based on Victor Hugo’s 1831 novel of the same name, The Hunchback of Notre Dame is a musical drama film that is widely regarded as one of Disney’s darkest animated undertakings to date.

 

The plot of the film revolves around an impaired bell-ringer in Notre Dame named Quasimodo; a courteous man who decides to stand up to the misdeeds of his tyrant guardian to come to the aid of a gypsy girl, Esmeralda.

 

Known for encompassing mature themes such as infanticide, lust, genocide, and sin, The Hunchback of Notre Dame opened to favorable reviews and went on to mint a decent amount of money at the box office.

 

 

40. Bedknobs and Broomsticks (1971)

 

 

 

While this live-action animated musical fantasy film may not be as popular today, it is one of the first few features to have effectively blended live-action and animation into its storytelling.

 

Directed by Robert Stevenson, the story follows Charlie, Carrie, and Paul, who make their way to live with an apprentice witch, who goes by the name of Eglantine Price.

 

However, the trio soon stumbles upon one of her top secrets and blackmails her into giving something to them in return.

 

But, they forget that Eglantine is, at the end of the day, a witch, who will go out of her way to protect all her secrets.

 

If the summary of the story isn’t intriguing enough for you yet, make peace with the fact that you get to see ghost soldiers combatting Nazis.

 

Bedknobs and Broomsticks was nominated for five Academy Awards and ended up winning one for Best Special Visual Effects.

 

 

41. Song of the South (1946)

 

 

 

Directed by Wilfred Jackson, Song of the South is a live-action/animated musical drama feature that is set in the southern part of the United States during the Reconstruction Era.

 

The film traces the journey of a storyteller named Uncle Remus, who tells a young boy adventurous tales about a smart Br’er Rabbit, a Br’er Fox, and the slow-witted Br’er Bear.

 

Even though Song of the South works as a live-action feature for the better part of its run time, there are at least three animated segments in its screenplay.

 

Some sequences also exhibit a fine mix of both live-action and animation.

 

 

42. Aladdin (2019)

 

 

 

A live-action screen adaptation of Disney’s popular 1992 animated feature of the same name, Aladdin stars Will Smith, Mena Massoud, and Naomi Scott in crucial roles.

 

The film tracks the journey of the kind thief Aladdin, who tries his best to impress the princess of Agrabah, Jasmine.

 

In his pursuits, he is guided by Genie. However, after the grand vizier, Jafar aims to seize the throne, Jasmine, Genie, and Aladdin come together to deter him from successfully executing his wicked plans.

 

Even though Aladdin opened to mixed reviews, it went on to gross over $1 billion worldwide during its theatrical run.

 

The motion picture was praised for its costumes, music, and performances.

 

 

43. Newsies (1992)

 

 

 

Helmed by Kenny Ortega in his directorial debut, this musical historical comedy-drama film is one of the most distinct titles to make it to our story.

 

The motion picture traces the journey of newspaper sellers, who are tired of the relentless exploitation by their ignorant bosses. Together, they try to fight back hoping for a change.

 

Loosely based on the New York City Newsboys Strike of 1899, the movie stars Christian Bale, Robert Duvall, Ann-Margret, and Bill Pullman in significant roles.

 

Even though the film tanked at the box office, it managed to develop a cult following on home video.

 

 

44. Frozen II (2019)

 

 

 

A sequel to Frozen, this computer-animated musical fantasy film carries forward the journey of Queen Elsa and her sister.

 

The film shows Elsa being compelled to answer an enigmatic voice that seems to be reaching out to her.

 

Soon after she acknowledges the voice, it awakens elemental spirits and, thus, begins a journey to restore an old injustice.

 

The second installment of Elsa’s magical powers opened to fair reviews and at the box office. It was appreciated for its craftsmanship, execution, and themes.

 

However, the critics were not too pleased with how the story was narrated.

 

 

45. The Lion King (2019)

 

 

 

This Jon Favreau directorial venture is an immensely successful photorealistic computer-animated remake of Disney’s 1994 animated blockbuster of the same title.

 

A global box office smash, it tells the already popular take of a young lion prince named Simba, who is forced out of his kingdom after the untimely demise of his father.

 

Years later, he stumbles upon a lioness named Nala and is inspired to return to his land and regain his lost throne.

 

Even though The Lion King opened to mixed reviews, it was praised for its vocal performances, music, and visual effects.

 

 

46. Mary Poppins Returns (2018)

 

 

 

This musical fantasy drama, which is loosely based on the book series Mary Poppins by P. L. Travers, is also a direct sequel to the acclaimed 1964 film Mary Poppins.

 

The film stars British star Emily Blunt as the magical nanny Mary Poppins, who returns to the Banks after the death of a close family member.

 

Upon her arrival, she takes the onus on herself to protect the family and walk them through several magical adventures.

 

A decent success at the box office, the movie was praised for its production values, visual effects, costumes, and performances.

 

 

47. Pocahontas (1995)

 

 

 

This animated musical historical drama film tells the story of the Powhatan woman Pocahontas, whose father has decided to get her married to one of the New World’s most dignified warriors.

 

However, a twist in the tale comes to the fore when it is revealed that Pocahontas only dreams of wedding a prince; someone who goes by the name of Smith.

 

The feature film was produced and released during Disney’s Renaissance period. It opened to mixed reviews at the ticket counters.

 

While Pocahontas was praised for its vocal performances, music, and animation, it was also criticized for its racial overtones and historical inaccuracies.

 

 

48. Oliver & Company (1988)

 

 

 

Partially based on the classic Charles Dickens novel Oliver Twist, Oliver & Company is an animated musical adventure feature film that is set in New York City in the 1980s.

 

The story follows Oliver, who, after having lost his way in New York City, stumbles upon the careless mongrel Dodger, who assists him in stealing food from the local vendors in the city.

 

However, things soon alter in Oliver’s life after he gets to meet the well-off Jenny. Even though Oliver & Company opened to mixed reviews, it went on to exceed expectations at the ticket windows.

 

 

49. The Three Caballeros (1944)

 

 

 

This live-action animated musical package film tells the story of Donald Duck and his friends as they go on a fun-filled adventure through Latin America.

 

The Three Caballeros, which was produced to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Donald Duck, did not disappoint with its versatile music.

 

The songs that were included in the screenplay were a mixture of Spanish, English, and Portuguese tunes. Needless to say, the music of this highly energetic animated feature was heavily inspired by different parts of Latin America.

 

It is not surprising to conclude then that The Three Caballeros was produced to send a well-intentioned message to Latin America on behalf of the studio.

 

 

50. Pete’s Dragon (1977)

 

 

 

This Don Chaffey directorial venture, which is a fair mix of live-action and animation, thrives on its mature and endearing storyline.

 

Coupled with songs that truly do justice to the film’s whimsical vibe, Pete’s Dragon is basically a story about an orphan boy and his magical dragon.

 

It traces the events that follow after they both run away from the boys’ abusive foster parents. The motion picture was appreciated by the viewers, courtesy of its upbeat music, well-intentioned plot, and the setting of the screenplay.

 

At the 50th Academy Awards, the film got nominated for its musical score and original song. It was a moderate success at the ticket windows.