I never expected to write two Disney related posts! When I wrote my recent review of Artemis Fowl, I mentioned kids movies can be torture. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t hate kid’s movies, but I’ve certainly watched my fair share of sappy storylines, crappy animation, and poorly dubbed kid’s movies over the years. There are certain films that illicit an unconscious groan or eye roll as soon as I hear their theme music.
That got me thinking about the movies that I never mind watching with my kids, the ones I’ve seen 49 times but I don’t feel like I’m going to rip my hair out on time 50. So I made a list of 10 Disney Movies that Won’t Drive You Crazy…or at least, don’t drive me crazy.
Disclaimer: They aren’t in any sort of order. Number 1 is not my favorite and number 10 is not the worst on the list. There are lots of other fantastic (and better) Disney movies, but this list only holds 10. Sorry. Not every movie is the greatest Disney movie I’ve ever seen. Part of it not driving you crazy is being able to watch it over and over and over because kids do that, and sometimes those movies aren’t always “the best.” Sorry, not sorry, I cannot watch Frozen AGAIN no matter how good it is!
1. Emperor’s New Grove
This is the story of Emperor Kuzco who is turned into a llama by his ex-right hand (wo)man Yzma, brilliantly voiced by Eartha Kitt. In order to regain his throne and his humanity, he enlists the help of Pacha, the gentle llama herder whose home he intends to destroy. It’s funny, fast-paced, and there are aren’t a bunch of random songs coming out of nowhere.
2. Brave
Deciding to break away from tradition, Princess Merida could topple her kingdom and forever rip apart her family. She’s granted one wish to help change her fate, but the results are unexpected and disastrous. This isn’t your typical “princess love story.” Merida doesn’t need a Prince Charming to save the day and, in fact, proves she’s more qualified for the task than the princes available. It’s about the bond and misunderstandings that can arise between mothers and daughters.
3. Mulan
Mulan is the original badass Disney princess. In order to protect her father from certain death when he is drafted back into the army, she secretly goes in his place, posing as his son. Mulan is a strong, intelligent, independent woman who fights bad guys and wins. She is powerful, even when feminine, and she never gives up. A must-see for every little girl!
4. Big Hero 6
After a tragedy, child tech prodigy Hiro Hamada joins forces with a plump robot named Baymax and turns his “geek squad” classmates into superheroes to solve the mystery and save the day. There’s plenty of action in this film as well as lessons in managing emotions, dealing with tragedy, and using our gifts and talents for good.
5. Wreak It Ralph
Ralph, tired of the poor treatment he receives as a video game villain, leaves his game to become a hero, wreaking havoc on the whole arcade in the process. The references to old video games we played as kids are fun as well as the childish banter between Ralph and Vanellope. The best part of this movie is the characters breaking the rules on who they are “supposed” to be. The bad guy is nice, the princess is a hoodie-wearing racer, the hot bombshell is a hardcore military sergeant.
6. Moana
When a terrible curse affects Moana’s island paradise home, she sets off on an adventure to find the demigod Maui and set things right. Moana is brave and determined to do what’s best for herself and for her people. This movie is all about perseverance. The songs are fun and catchy but not annoying.
7. Bolt
A superhero dog named Bolt crosses the country to find his kidnapped owner and best friend, Penny. Only problem is that Bolt isn’t a superhero, he is an ordinary dog starring in a tv show, he just doesn’t know it. With the help of Mittens, a streetwise cat, he discovers there is something special about being ordinary. It’s a lesson in enjoying the simple things in life and being okay with who we are. It’s not the best Disney movie I’ve ever seen but its characters are cute and its a fun, family film that all ages can enjoy.
8. Finding Nemo
Finding Nemo is a lesson about listening to your parents. Nemo defies his dad by going out into the open ocean and is subsequently kidnapped. His brave father, Marlon, must cross the ocean to save his son. No, thats not what you got from it? Well, either way, it’s a fun, family adventure with memorable characters and no singing. There also might be something in there about parents learning to let go a little too.
9. Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl
Will Turner, a love struck blacksmith, joins forces with an eccentric pirate named Jack Sparrow, to save his lady love Elizabeth Swan, but Ms. Swan has no intention of just waiting around to be saved. This movie has action, adventure, pirates, and curses. Its an amazing ghost story that you can’t help but love. It might be a little scary for small children (it is PG-13), but its tons of fun.
10. National Treasure
A historian and third-generation treasure hunter searches for the “national treasure.” Step One: Steal the Declaration of Independence before the bad guy does. It has some mild violence, but no nudity and no language. It’s a light-hearted adventure for the whole family. Younger kids won’t get all the historical references and might not be able to follow the clues, but they will love the action as much as you do.
I hope you enjoyed this list. I’ve partnered with some amazing bloggers to bring you Disney Top 10 lists. Check out their Top 10 Disney Lists as well!
