Disney has long dominated the realm of animation, but recent years indicate a shift in its priorities. With the acquisition of major entertainment entities—such as Marvel, Star Wars, and Pixar—it appears that Disney’s focus has shifted from creating captivating animated films to remaking beloved classics into live-action versions. Moreover, they seem to be delegating animated projects to studios like Pixar. Nonetheless, Disney possesses an incredible reservoir of potential for producing high-quality, imaginative animated films that resonate with diverse audiences.
The magic of animation is its ability to engage audiences of all ages, a hallmark that Disney has historically mastered. With this in mind, there is ample opportunity for Disney to revive its legacy of creating original and enchanting animated stories.
8 Alice in Wonderland
One of the most fantastical tales in literature, Alice in Wonderland, originally penned by Lewis Carroll, finds its best expression in Disney’s animated adaptation. This film not only exemplifies the power of animation to stretch the boundaries of imagination but also successfully presents a narrative filled with whimsical charm and strange splendor. Despite the darker undertones present in Carroll’s original work, animation allows for a gentler approach, making it accessible for all audiences.
If Disney were to re-explore such creatively ambitious and unconventional narratives in animation, the potential for success could be immense. The studio has always excelled at reinterpreting fairy tales and timeless novels, making a return to this form very plausible.
7 The Black Cauldron
Disney’s vast resources could facilitate the transformation of often-overlooked narratives into mainstream successes. One such example is The Black Cauldron, a 1985 film that delves into Welsh mythology, adapted from Lloyd Alexander’s novels. This action-adventure story features a heroic young protagonist accompanied by a lively cast of magical beings, with the animation being an integral part of the film’s allure.
Animation liberates young characters from the confines of their physical limitations, allowing them to embark on extraordinary adventures. This capability enables Disney to craft narratives that resonate with younger audiences, making a strong case for revisiting similar stories in an animated context.
6 Treasure Planet
Treasure Island, the classic novel by Robert Louis Stevenson, has inspired numerous adaptations, but Disney’s Treasure Planet stands out as a particularly inventive interpretation. Instead of sticking to a conventional retelling, Disney reimagines the tale within a futuristic, intergalactic framework.
While live-action adaptations may struggle to translate such fantastical settings, animation excels in this realm, enabling the exploration of limitless creative possibilities. This kind of reimagining has proven to be a successful strategy for Disney and could serve as a springboard for producing equally ambitious stories in the future.
5 Atlantis: The Lost Empire
Disney has often ventured beyond adaptations, creating original and expansive narratives that draw from global myths and fantasies. One notable example is Atlantis: The Lost Empire, which debuted in 2001 and showcased Disney’s inventive storytelling potential. The film brings the mythic world of Atlantis to life with advanced technology, a unique language, and a captivating plot filled with intrigue.
This story exemplifies the breadth of Disney’s creative vision, making it a prime candidate for a sequel or a reinterpretation for modern audiences.
4 Meet The Robinsons
Meet the Robinsons stands as a personal favorite, weaving a touching narrative about an orphan’s quest for family. With its imaginative sci-fi backdrop and the eccentricities of the Robinson family, the film is a captivating journey filled with heart.
At its core, the movie conveys a simple yet profound message: “Keep moving forward,”offering encouragement during challenging times. This ethos parallels the sentiment expressed in Disney’s Finding Nemo, yet I believe Meet the Robinsons encapsulates it with greater resonance. As an underappreciated gem, it highlights Disney’s potential for heartfelt storytelling.
3 Big Hero 6
With its ownership of Marvel, Disney has successfully bridged the worlds of animation and superhero narratives, as exemplified in Big Hero 6. Based on a lesser-known Marvel comic, this film was not only a blockbuster but also masterfully addressed complex emotional themes.
Through Hiro, a brilliant inventor grappling with grief after a family tragedy, the film delicately navigates deep emotional landscapes while still appealing to a wide audience with stunning visuals and imaginative storytelling. This demonstrates Disney’s capability to tell profound stories while reaching viewers of all ages.
2 The Nightmare Before Christmas
The Nightmare Before Christmas, based on Tim Burton’s poem, marks a departure from Disney’s standard narratives, showcasing a darker, more nuanced tale. Released under a specialized label, the film has become a cherished part of holiday traditions, bolstered by its iconic music and compelling storytelling.
This film exemplifies Disney’s ability to venture beyond conventional storytelling, proving that exploring unconventional themes can cultivate a dedicated fan base and create enduring cultural significance.
1 The Aristocats
Disney has a rich history of creating animated films that resonate through their iconic soundtracks. Classic films such as The Lion King, The Little Mermaid, and Frozen boast songs that have surpassed the limits of their films. However, many of the early Disney animations lacked a cohesive musical identity, a gap that The Aristocats adeptly filled by placing music at the forefront of its narrative.
This 1970s film, featuring a charming group of anthropomorphized cats, utilizes music to unify its story, setting a precedent for future releases. Such innovative approaches, including unique character ensembles and musical focus, provide valuable insights for Disney’s future animated offerings.