11 Underrated Disney Hidden Gems That Deserve A Whole Lot More Attention
Disney movies are like a box of chocolates; you never know what you're going to get. A vast array of goodness ranges from animated classics to live-action blockbusters to explore. With so many films under their belt, it's natural for some to fly under the radar, lost in the shadow of more popular releases. But fear not, Disney fans! We've scoured the archives and found some of the most underrated and overlooked movies in their catalog.
Whether you're a die-hard Disney fan, or a casual moviegoer who eventually got fed up with princes and princesses, this list has something for everyone. And believe us when we say these movies are THE hidden gems. And dare we say, even better than some of the more popular!
So why not take a break from re-watching your favorite for the millionth time, and give these underrated flicks the appreciation they deserve? You might just find a new favorite!
Of course, the movie isn't without its faults. But it's the moments that explore the emotional journeys of Quasimodo, Esmeralda, and the mature villain Frollo that make this film stand out. Coupled with Alan Menken's breathtaking musical score and stunning animation (especially in the "Sanctuary" scene), it's hard not to appreciate the triumphs of this animated project.
The film features unforgettable songs by Johnny Rzeznik, lead singer of Goo Goo Dolls, and powerful voice acting by Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Brian Murray. Despite some pacing issues and a few jokes that miss their mark, "Treasure Planet" deserves more recognition for the meticulous effort and detail put into its creation.
What sets "Enchanted" apart is its clever nods to Disney's animated history while also poking fun at fairy tales. The film's humor and charm are on full display, from the animated character's adjustment to real-life to the sweet romance between Giselle and Robert. Plus, the music by Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz is top-notch. Despite not receiving the recognition it deserves, "Enchanted" is a true treasure.
While some critics compare "Bedknobs and Broomsticks" to "Mary Poppins," both films have their own unique qualities. "Bedknobs and Broomsticks" stands out for its imagination, catchy songs, awe-inspiring visual effects, and enchanting performances by Lansbury and Tomlinson. Despite having a complex plot, the film is made easily digestible and enjoyable for a wide audience. Ultimately, "Bedknobs and Broomsticks" is a quirky treasure in the Disney collection.
Despite its poor box office performance, "Atlantis: The Lost Empire" is a film that deserves more recognition. Its memorable and quotable dialogue, along with its impressive art direction, make it a must-see for Disney fans. The movie's unique visual style was influenced by anime and the art of Mike Mignola, the creator of "Hellboy." Overall, "Atlantis" is a standout Disney movie that stands out from the crowd.
Despite being overlooked, "Brother Bear" is a fascinating Disney animated movie that deserves more attention. Joaquin Phoenix and Jeremy Suarez deliver excellent voice performances, and the animation is stunningly beautiful. It's a shame that "Brother Bear" is not widely known, but if you can overlook its flaws, you'll discover a heartwarming movie that is both delightful and charming.
The film takes an emotional approach to the story of the iconic jungle hero, with a focus on Tarzan's relationships with the women in his life - his gorilla mother Kala and his love interest Jane. The film also explores Tarzan's complicated relationship with his gorilla father Kerchak, adding depth and richness to the story. All of these elements make "Tarzan" a standout film that deserves more attention from viewers.
The movie stands out with its unique twists and commentary, while also boasting top-notch animation by Glen Keane and voice acting by horror icon Vincent Price. For those who have yet to experience the adventures of Basil and his world, "The Great Mouse Detective" is a must-watch.
Although it was not the serious movie that the filmmakers initially intended, "The Emperor's New Groove" has proven to be a comedic masterpiece. Plus, it has aged well in the two decades since its release. The film's greatest strengths include Eartha Kitt's superb voice acting and the incorporation of animated humor in the style of Chuck Jones. While it may not be typical Disney fare, "The Emperor's New Groove" deserves more love.
"Return to Oz" has received criticism for its darker tone and unsettling imagery, but it remains a faithful adaptation of L. Frank Baum's original Oz stories. The film captures the whimsy and terror of the source material, and its commitment to Baum's vision is commendable. Despite its reputation as a nightmare-inducing film, "Return to Oz" is a unique and captivating piece of cinema.
What sets this adaptation apart is the undeniable enjoyment displayed on-screen. Particularly, the chemistry between the three lead heroes. While the plot follows the usual beats of other "Musketeer" stories, it's the snappy dialogue, over-the-top melodrama, and Tim Curry's unique energy that make it a standout. To top it all off, the film features a memorable end-credits song performed by Bryan Adams, Sting, and Rod Stewart, making it a delightful product of its time.
Whether you're a die-hard Disney fan, or a casual moviegoer who eventually got fed up with princes and princesses, this list has something for everyone. And believe us when we say these movies are THE hidden gems. And dare we say, even better than some of the more popular!
So why not take a break from re-watching your favorite for the millionth time, and give these underrated flicks the appreciation they deserve? You might just find a new favorite!
#1 The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996)
Source: Walt Disney Pictures
Of course, the movie isn't without its faults. But it's the moments that explore the emotional journeys of Quasimodo, Esmeralda, and the mature villain Frollo that make this film stand out. Coupled with Alan Menken's breathtaking musical score and stunning animation (especially in the "Sanctuary" scene), it's hard not to appreciate the triumphs of this animated project.
#2 Treasure Planet (2002)
Source: Walt Disney Pictures
The film features unforgettable songs by Johnny Rzeznik, lead singer of Goo Goo Dolls, and powerful voice acting by Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Brian Murray. Despite some pacing issues and a few jokes that miss their mark, "Treasure Planet" deserves more recognition for the meticulous effort and detail put into its creation.
#3 Enchanted (2007)
Source: Walt Disney Pictures
What sets "Enchanted" apart is its clever nods to Disney's animated history while also poking fun at fairy tales. The film's humor and charm are on full display, from the animated character's adjustment to real-life to the sweet romance between Giselle and Robert. Plus, the music by Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz is top-notch. Despite not receiving the recognition it deserves, "Enchanted" is a true treasure.
#4 Bedknobs and Broomsticks (1971)
Source: Walt Disney Pictures
While some critics compare "Bedknobs and Broomsticks" to "Mary Poppins," both films have their own unique qualities. "Bedknobs and Broomsticks" stands out for its imagination, catchy songs, awe-inspiring visual effects, and enchanting performances by Lansbury and Tomlinson. Despite having a complex plot, the film is made easily digestible and enjoyable for a wide audience. Ultimately, "Bedknobs and Broomsticks" is a quirky treasure in the Disney collection.
#5 Atlantis: The Lost Empire (2001)
Source: Walt Disney Pictures
Despite its poor box office performance, "Atlantis: The Lost Empire" is a film that deserves more recognition. Its memorable and quotable dialogue, along with its impressive art direction, make it a must-see for Disney fans. The movie's unique visual style was influenced by anime and the art of Mike Mignola, the creator of "Hellboy." Overall, "Atlantis" is a standout Disney movie that stands out from the crowd.
#6 Brother Bear (2003)
Source: Walt Disney Pictures
Despite being overlooked, "Brother Bear" is a fascinating Disney animated movie that deserves more attention. Joaquin Phoenix and Jeremy Suarez deliver excellent voice performances, and the animation is stunningly beautiful. It's a shame that "Brother Bear" is not widely known, but if you can overlook its flaws, you'll discover a heartwarming movie that is both delightful and charming.
#7 Tarzan (1999)
Source: Walt Disney Pictures
The film takes an emotional approach to the story of the iconic jungle hero, with a focus on Tarzan's relationships with the women in his life - his gorilla mother Kala and his love interest Jane. The film also explores Tarzan's complicated relationship with his gorilla father Kerchak, adding depth and richness to the story. All of these elements make "Tarzan" a standout film that deserves more attention from viewers.
#8 The Great Mouse Detective (1986)
Source: Walt Disney Pictures
The movie stands out with its unique twists and commentary, while also boasting top-notch animation by Glen Keane and voice acting by horror icon Vincent Price. For those who have yet to experience the adventures of Basil and his world, "The Great Mouse Detective" is a must-watch.
#9 The Emperor's New Groove (2000)
Source: Walt Disney Pictures
Although it was not the serious movie that the filmmakers initially intended, "The Emperor's New Groove" has proven to be a comedic masterpiece. Plus, it has aged well in the two decades since its release. The film's greatest strengths include Eartha Kitt's superb voice acting and the incorporation of animated humor in the style of Chuck Jones. While it may not be typical Disney fare, "The Emperor's New Groove" deserves more love.
#10 Return to Oz (1985)
Source: Walt Disney Pictures
"Return to Oz" has received criticism for its darker tone and unsettling imagery, but it remains a faithful adaptation of L. Frank Baum's original Oz stories. The film captures the whimsy and terror of the source material, and its commitment to Baum's vision is commendable. Despite its reputation as a nightmare-inducing film, "Return to Oz" is a unique and captivating piece of cinema.
#11 The Three Musketeers (1993)
Source: Walt Disney Pictures
What sets this adaptation apart is the undeniable enjoyment displayed on-screen. Particularly, the chemistry between the three lead heroes. While the plot follows the usual beats of other "Musketeer" stories, it's the snappy dialogue, over-the-top melodrama, and Tim Curry's unique energy that make it a standout. To top it all off, the film features a memorable end-credits song performed by Bryan Adams, Sting, and Rod Stewart, making it a delightful product of its time.
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