This piece gets regularly refreshed since fresh content is constantly being added to Disney+, and new additions are marked with an asterisk.
The collection available on Disney+ is exceptionally vast among streaming services, largely due to its ownership by a company with extensive holdings. Following the merger of Disney and Fox, this megacorporation now houses brands so prominent they each have their dedicated areas on the site, such as Star Wars and the Marvel Cinematic Universe. To top it off, they also offer the entire history of one of the most recognized animation studios worldwide. This library is almost too vast to summarize effectively…yet we’ll give it a go!
You may be familiar with the numerous shows on Disney+ catering to your children’s preferences, but there’s a wide variety of content beyond just those favorites. Here, we’ve compiled 25 diverse selections spanning different styles, eras, and age ratings (G through PG-13). To give you a taste of everything Disney has to offer, we’ll highlight one Star Wars film as a sample, while dispersing the rest across Pixar, classic Disney animation, live-action productions, and lesser-known gems. That’s what we aim to achieve with this list.
Animated Films
Beauty and the Beast
Year: 1991
Runtime: 1h 32m
Directors: Gary Trousdale, Kirk Wise
Rating: G
1991’s Disney masterpiece, “Beauty and the Beast,” made history as the first animated film to be nominated for Best Picture at the Oscars. Although it didn’t win, this timeless movie is a visual and emotional marvel, skillfully adapting a classic tale with stunning animation and songs that resonate deeply. The craftsmanship in this production stands out compared to many Disney films, making it one of the most successful ever made.
Encanto
Year: 2021
Runtime: 1h 52m
Directors: Jared Bush, Byron Howard
Rating: PG
Initially premiered in cinemas amidst the pandemic, the Academy Award-winning Best Animated Feature, “Encanto”, saw a modest cultural impact until its release on Disney+ on Christmas Eve. From then on, “Encanto” soared in popularity, with its original songs gaining traction globally and establishing itself as one of Disney’s most successful contemporary films. The reasons for its appeal are clear: the film’s rich cultural tapestry and vivid color palette made it an irresistible artistic experience for audiences.
Frozen
Year: 2013
Runtime: 1h 45m
Directors: Chris Buck, Jennifer Lee
Rating: PG
Discussions about iconic Disney movies often center around the story of Anna and Elsa. Frozen, beyond being a successful animated film, transformed into a cultural phenomenon, leading to a sequel, merchandise, video games, theme park attractions, and even a Broadway production. In essence, it’s one of the most cherished animated films ever created.
Inside Out
Year: 2015
Runtime: 1h 35m
Director: Pete Docter
Rating: PG
Among Pixar’s most remarkable productions is a film that delves into the thoughts of a teenage girl named Riley (Kaitlyn Dias), exploring the emotions residing within her, primarily Joy (Amy Poehler) and Sadness (Phyllis Smith). These feelings embark on an adventure deep within Riley’s psyche. Stunning visually and expertly voiced, it also carries a significant message for younger audiences: life often involves a mix of joy and sorrow. The follow-up is set to premiere in 2024, and it must surpass expectations to rival the original.
The Lion King
Year: 1994
Runtime: 1h 33m
Directors: Roger Allers, Rob Minkoff
Rating: G
This timeless animated masterpiece is significantly important during Disney’s Renaissance period, holding a special place among fans as one of the most cherished Disney productions ever made. It transcended its status as a mere film, spawning sequels, theme park features, and an immensely successful Broadway adaptation. The tale of Simba continues to captivate audiences, being shared from one generation to another, likely garnering a new devotee somewhere around the globe every day.
Moana
Year: 2016
Runtime: 1h 51m
Directors: John Musker, Ron Clements
Rating: PG
It seems as if the popularity of this movie increases each year, doesn’t it? Initially, it was a blockbuster upon release, but nowadays, you can find children around the world singing “How Far I’ll Go,” which suggests that it must be one of the most frequently rewatched modern Disney films for good reason. The film is visually captivating, its themes strike a chord, and the voices are spot-on perfect. Additionally, its catchy tunes draw both children and their parents back to listen repeatedly.
The Nightmare Before Christmas
Year: 1993
Runtime: 1h 19m
Director: Henry Selick
Rating: PG
You don’t necessarily need Halloween or Christmas to appreciate the tale of Jack Skellington, brilliantly brought to life by the geniuses Henry Selick and Tim Burton. This innovative and imaginative movie has gained more admirers with each passing generation, as parents share it with their children. Moreover, it has stood the test of time compared to many family films of its era due to its ability to tackle darker themes and its iconic visuals that remain unforgettable.
Ratatouille
Year: 2007
Runtime: 1h 52m
Director: Brad Bird
Rating: G
Brad Bird would undoubtedly rank among the finest filmmakers for family entertainment if his works were limited to just “The Iron Giant” and “The Incredibles”, but he’s also created this exceptional piece! This man is indeed a virtuoso in the realm of animation, and it’s evident in this Paris-set tale about a rat who rises to become a renowned chef. It’s an enchanting story that beautifully captures the journey towards fulfilling unforeseen dreams, making it one of Pixar’s finest productions.
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs
Year: 1937
Runtime: 1h 27m
Director: David Hand
Rating: G
It goes without saying that Snow White, the first full-length animated feature from the early days of Disney, should be included on the list, doesn’t it? After all, Disney+ wouldn’t exist without this classic tale from the small company started by Walt Disney. The story of Snow White and her companions has a timeless appeal that continues to captivate audiences today. In fact, Snow White played a significant role in shaping the enduring legacy of the Disney brand for generations. Though it may seem a bit old-fashioned to today’s children, they too will soon be drawn into its enchantment.
Toy Story
Year: 1995
Runtime: 1h 24m
Director: John Lasseter
Rating: G
Much like Snow White is synonymous with Disney, Woody and Buzz have become staples for Pixar. Their debut film was a groundbreaking achievement for the studio, revolutionizing animation as we know it. The dream of every child – to discover if their toys could come alive – was brilliantly brought to life by the creative minds at Pixar, resulting in an unforgettable cinematic legacy. Today, these four iconic films are available on Disney+ and remain just as captivating upon rewatching.
WALL-E
Year: 2008
Runtime: 1h 39m
Director: Andrew Stanton
Rating: G
In the same vein of creative originality found in popular animated films, WALL-E tells the story of a solitary robot who is among the few still functioning on Earth, now a colossal waste dump. His life takes an exciting turn when he develops feelings for a probe robot named EVE, leading him to embark on a spaceship hurtling through the cosmos. Boasting visually captivating imagery and exceptional storytelling, WALL-E is undeniably one of Pixar’s finest productions.
Live-Action Films
Avatar: The Way of Water
Year: 2022
Runtime: 3h 15m
Director: James Cameron
Rating: PG-13
Has the cultural impact of Avatar continued even after its 2022 sequel grossed over $1 billion? It’s no surprise considering James Cameron’s masterful direction. Now available for streaming on Disney+, the film has been enhanced with a superior 4K video presentation compared to many other streaming options. With multiple sequels in the works, it seems that Cameron will continue his exploration of Pandora. If you want to delve deeper into this world, make sure to revisit it through your preferred streaming service.
The Avengers
Year: 2012
Runtime: 2h 25m
Director: Joss Whedon
Rating: PG-13
Before Joss Whedon’s groundbreaking movie, there were other successful Marvel Cinematic Universe films. However, this particular film marked the beginning of what we now know as an “event movie” in the franchise. This signified that subsequent movies would be leading up to these major milestones every few years. Despite being a part of such a significant series, it remains an engaging action movie with a good dose of humor. In many ways, it set the tone for what we now recognize as the unique style and impact of the MCU (and contemporary blockbusters) on the next generation of film enthusiasts.
Black Panther
Year: 2018
Runtime: 2h 18m
Director: Ryan Coogler
Rating: PG-13
Among all Marvel movies, Black Panther is certainly a strong contender for the best. This is due in large part to the unique style and vigor it possesses, which can be attributed to Ryan Coogler’s exceptional directing skills and passion, as well as an outstanding cast led by the late Chadwick Boseman. In a genre that often follows a similar formula, Black Panther stands out for its creative freedom.
Captain America: Winter Soldier
Year: 2014
Runtime: 2h 18m
Director: Anthony Russo, Joe Russo
Rating: PG-13
Among the top-tier Marvel films produced, the sequel to “Captain America” notably reevaluated the patriotism portrayed in the initial film and its namesake character. The end product is a movie that mirrors the atmosphere of ’70s paranoia thrillers, featuring an icon from that era playing a pivotal role – Robert Redford. This film is generally considered one of the leanest Marvel productions, as it maintains a brisk pace and showcases some of the company’s finest action scenes.
The Indiana Jones franchise
Year: 1981
Runtime: 1h 56m
Director: Steven Spielberg
Rating: PG or PG-13
Indiana Jones’ thrilling escapades have now found a permanent home on Disney+, just as we eagerly anticipate the premiere of Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny. In the meantime, immerse yourself in the entire chronicle of Harrison Ford’s iconic characters across the four other films. The 2023 sequel is set to join this legendary collection soon. It’s worth mentioning that the first movie remains undeniably outstanding among them, a rare film that some might consider flawless.
Iron Man
Year: 2008
Runtime: 2h 7m
Director: Jon Favreau
Rating: PG-13
Is this the most impactful contemporary box-office hit? It undeniably transformed the movie scene by being the pioneer in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. However, it’s not merely an “essential” film. It remains a thrilling and enjoyable one as well, with Robert Downey Jr.’s captivating performance serving as its cornerstone. Delve into its origins to understand where the modern superhero mania truly took over and reshaped cinema into a powerful force.
The Muppet Movie
Year: 1979
Runtime: 1h 35m
Director: James Frawley
Rating: G
View this listing as a temporary representation for the extensive Muppets collection available on Disney+, where the initial film remains a standout favorite. This classic movie was made during the run of “The Muppet Show,” offering a delightful embodiment of what fans cherish about Kermit, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Gonzo, and their comrades. It boasts impressive celebrity appearances and features some of the most memorable film tunes, particularly the enduring “Rainbow Connection.
National Treasure
Year: 2004
Runtime: 2h 11m
Director: Jon Turteltaub
Rating: PG
In simpler terms, the world of “National Treasure” is set to make a comeback with a third movie and a new series on Disney+. This means it’s high time to revisit the first film where Nicolas Cage plays Benjamin Franklin Gates, a historian who finds himself embarking on an adventure reminiscent of Indiana Jones when he uncovers a map hidden at the back of the Declaration of Independence.
Pete’s Dragon
Year: 2016
Runtime: 1h 47m
Director: David Lowery
Rating: PG
As a cinephile, let me share my favorite among live-action adaptations of classic animated films that often face criticism for lacking creativity. The mastermind behind “A Ghost Story” and “The Green Knight” reimagined the 1977 animated musical with the same name into a captivating tale about an extraordinary bond between a boy and his dragon. This movie is nothing short of enchanting.
The Princess Bride
Year: 1987
Runtime: 1h 38m
Director: Rob Reiner
Rating: PG
One timeless fantasy film, based on William Goldman’s novel with the same title, quickly became a fan favorite upon release. Often ranked among the funniest and most romantic movies ever made, the story of Westley and Princess Buttercup has captured hearts for generations. In 2016, it was added to the National Film Registry, acknowledging its enduring appeal. It’s a film that appeals to people of all ages due to its warm heart, clever humor, and imaginative spirit.
Rookie of the Year
Year: 1993
Runtime: 1h 45m
Director: Daniel Stern
Rating: PG
Individuals who were of a particular age in 1993 might have fond nostalgic memories of this movie. It was an unexpected blockbuster that summer, narrating the tale of a child who undergoes arm surgery and becomes a Major League Baseball star. Initially, critics deemed it rather average upon release, but it’s the type of film that children adored back then, and those kids could now be parents eager to introduce it to a new generation.
The Sandlot
Year: 1993
Runtime: 1h 42m
Director: David Mickey Evans
Rating: PG
Initially receiving little attention upon its release, the movie “The Sandlot” has consistently been included among top sports films whenever such rankings are published. The enduring appeal of this film about Los Angeles children playing baseball in the summer of ’62 can be attributed to its timelessness; viewers find themselves identifying with one or more of the characters, and reminiscing about their own childhood experiences while watching this delightful, humorous cinematic gem.
Star Wars
Year: 1977
Runtime: 2h 5m
Director: George Lucas
Rating: PG
This listing serves as a reminder for your top picks among the “Star Wars” films, all of which can only be found on Disney+. Many fans, whether it’s the original or “The Empire Strikes Back”, have their favorite (both have left an indelible mark). A groundbreaking science fiction film like no other, “Star Wars” redefined the genre with its story about a boy destined to save the universe from absolute evil.
Who Framed Roger Rabbit?
Year: 1988
Runtime: 1h 43m
Director: Robert Zemeckis
Rating: PG
What movie doesn’t everyone adore? Known for being a groundbreaking blend of live-action and animation, it offers an exhilarating mix of action and comedy that keeps viewers hooked. The outstanding visual effects are complemented by Bob Hoskins’ exceptional portrayal as a detective who takes on the case of Roger Rabbit, a cartoon character suspected of murder. By merging noir elements with the lore of animation, it became one of the most successful films of its time.
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