Disney animated films have earned their classic status through timeless narratives that explore themes of bravery, love, and self-discovery. The company’s adaptations of popular fairy tales have become ingrained in pop culture, and, despite the wave of live-action remakes, none have quite captured the magic of the original animated versions.
What sets Disney’s animated adaptations apart is their ability to transform age-old, often dark folk tales into engaging family-friendly stories while delivering essential life lessons. These films are adorned with iconic villains and endearing protagonists, making the most captivating fairy tale adaptations that generations have cherished.
10 Sleeping Beauty (1959)
Based On “Sleeping Beauty”By The Brothers Grimm
Sleeping Beauty tells the enchanted story of Princess Aurora (voiced by Mary Costa), who is ensnared by a curse from the wicked fairy Maleficent (Eleanor Audley), leading her to fall into an eternal slumber before her sixteenth birthday. Although the good fairy Merryweather (Barbara Luddy) cannot eliminate the curse, she alters it to ensure that Aurora awakens only through true love’s kiss.
This film is a stunning blend of adventure and romance, showcasing the exquisite animation that remains visually appealing over six decades later. The battle against Maleficent adds an engaging sense of peril to the narrative, making Aurora and Prince Phillip’s love story an unforgettable aspect of Disney’s rich legacy.
9 Frozen (2013)
Based On “The Snow Queen”By Hans Christian Andersen
Frozen became an unparalleled sensation in modern Disney history, drawing inspiration from Hans Christian Andersen’s “The Snow Queen.”The film follows the bond between Princess Anna (Kristen Bell) and her estranged sister Princess Elsa (Idina Menzel), whose magical abilities inadvertently plunge their kingdom of Arendelle into perpetual winter.
The film’s soundtrack, particularly the Oscar and Grammy-winning “Let It Go,”contributed to its massive success. By focusing on sisterly love rather than traditional romantic tropes, Frozen has redefined the narrative standards of animated fairy tales.
8 Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs (1937)
Based On “Snow White”By The Brothers Grimm
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs marks Disney’s pioneering feature-length animated film, establishing a new era for fairytale adaptations. This enchanting tale follows the kind-hearted Snow White (Adriana Caselotti) as she escapes from her malevolent stepmother, the Queen (Lucille La Verne), and finds shelter with seven dwarfs.
Thanks to its stunning animation, compelling villainy, and delightful melodies, this film redefined storytelling in animation. While its recent live-action remake might not have resonated as profoundly, the original remains an enduring classic in the hearts of many.
7 Cinderella (1950)
Based On “Cinderella”By Charles Perrault
Cinderella presents the beloved story of a mistreated young woman (Ilene Woods) yearning for a better life, overshadowed by her wicked stepmother (Eleanor Audley) and stepsisters, Drizella (Rhoda Williams) and Anastasia (Lucille Bliss). With help from her fairy godmother, she transforms for the royal ball, where she captures the heart of Prince Charming.
With themes of resilience and friendship, Cinderella’s charm continues to captivate audiences, highlighting her journey from hardship to opportunity. The film’s enchanting moments of humor exemplify Disney’s talent for engaging storytelling.
6 Beauty And The Beast (1991)
Based On “Beauty And The Beast”By Jeanne-Marie Leprince De Beaumont & Gabrielle-Suzanne De Villeneuve
Beauty and the Beast explores an unconventional love story between a spirited young woman, Belle (Paige O’Hara), and the cursed Beast (Robby Benson). Set against the backdrop of 18th-century France, the film depicts Belle’s journey as she sacrifices her freedom for her father and ultimately discovers the true nature behind the beast’s monstrous appearance.
5 Aladdin (1992)
Based On “Aladdin”By Antoine Galland
Aladdin is a vibrant musical adventure that takes inspiration from “Aladdin”from One Thousand and One Nights. This enchanting film features Aladdin (Scott Weinger), a street-smart orphan who finds a magic lamp housing a wish-granting genie (Robin Williams). His pursuit of love with Princess Jasmine (Linda Larkin) is matched by thrilling escapades on flying carpets and heartwarming friendships.
The stunning animation and engaging soundtrack make Aladdin a timeless Disney classic, appealing to audiences young and old.
4 The Little Mermaid (1989)
Based On “The Little Mermaid”By Hans Christian Andersen
The Little Mermaid introduces the adventurous Ariel (Jodi Benson), a mermaid princess longing to explore the human world. In her quest for love with Prince Eric (Christopher Daniel Barnes), she strikes a dangerous bargain with the sea witch Ursula (Pat Carroll), trading her voice for legs.
With rich visuals, catchy music, and engaging characters, The Little Mermaid is a memorable journey of self-discovery and romance, leading to a remarkable standing in Disney’s animated legacy.
3 Tangled (2010)
Based On “Rapunzel”By The Brothers Grimm
Tangled reimagines the tale of Rapunzel (Mandy Moore), a princess with magical hair, held captive in her tower by Mother Gothel (Donna Murphy). This whimsical adventure begins when she meets Flynn Rider (Zachary Levi), leading them both on a journey of self-discovery and romance.
The film’s lively animation, compelling character dynamics, and delightful musical score create an inviting atmosphere that keeps audiences captivated.
2 The Princess And The Frog (2009)
Based On “The Frog Prince”By The Brothers Grimm
The Princess and the Frog, set in the vibrant 1920s New Orleans, follows determined waitress Tiana (Anika Noni Rose) whose dream of opening a restaurant comes true but at a cost. After kissing Prince Naveen (Bruno Campos), who has been cursed, she unexpectedly turns into a frog herself. Their journey back to human form is filled with humorous mishaps and invaluable lessons.
Despite its commercial performance, The Princess and the Frog remains a standout Disney film, celebrated for its rich animation and story that champions aspirations and hard work.
1 Mulan (1998)
Based On The Ancient Chinese Poem, “The Ballad of Mulan”
Mulan embarks on an exhilarating journey of bravery and transformation. Based on the ancient Chinese legend of Hua Mulan, the film features Fa Mulan (Ming-Na Wen) disguising herself as a man to take her ailing father’s place in the army. With the help of her small dragon companion Mushu (Eddie Murphy), Mulan faces the challenges of warfare, identity, and honor.
The film’s unforgettable moments, powerful themes, and incredible character development establish Mulan as one of Disney’s most heroic figures, embodying courage and resilience that resonate with audiences of all ages.