The 80 Best Movies On Disney+

Director: Wes Anderson | Runtime: 1h 42m

Cast: Bryan Cranston (Chief), Edward Norton (Rex), Bill Murray (Boss), Tilda Swinton (Oracle)

A perfect representation of Wes Anderson’s signature idiosyncratic style, Isle of Dogs makes full use of its stellar cast to tell a gently moving comedy-drama. Set on the outskirts of the fictional Japanese city of Megasaki, the movie imagines a future where all dogs have been banished to a single island in the aftermath of a deadly influenza pandemic. While its central plot device was surprisingly prescient, the movie still ranks among the best of Anderson’s back catalog, with a crackling script and gorgeously crafted stop-motion animation.

Director: John Lee Hancock | Runtime: 2h 8m

Cast: Dennis Quaid (Jimmy Morris), Rachel Griffiths (Lorri Morries), Jay Hernandez (Joaquin Campos), Brian Cox (Jim Morris Sr.), Angus T. Jones (Hunter Morris)

Based on the true story of former MLB player Jim Morris, the 2002 sports drama The Rookie is a quintessential underdog story. The movie sees Quaid star as Morris, a high school baseball coach in his mid-30s. Having given up on his dream to play baseball following a shoulder injury, he’s persuaded to try out for a major league team following a bet with his enthusiastic team. The result is both uplifting and life-affirming, with the much-loved movie earning a richly-deserved place on the American Film Institute’s 100 Years… 100 Cheers list.

Director: Michael Gracey | Runtime: 1h 45m

Cast: Hugh Jackman (P.T. Barnum), Zac Efron (Phillip Carlyle), Michelle Williams (Charity Barnum), Rebecca Ferguson (Jenny Lind), Zendaya (Anne Wheeler)

Based on the larger-than-life story of entrepreneurial entertainer P.T. Barnum, The Greatest Showman has been a smash hit with audiences ever since its release. Despite taking liberties with the true story, the movie has cemented its status as a modern cult classic with a number of memorable tunes, including the defiant “This Is Me”. Led by Hugh Jackman as the effervescent Barnum, The Greatest Showman boasts an impressive supporting cast. The infectious positivity that pervades the film makes it one of the best movies on Disney+ for anyone in need of a feel-good watch.

Director: George Seaton | Runtime: 1h 37m

Cast: Maureen O’Hara (Doris Walker), John Payne (Fred Gailey), Edmund Gwenn (Santa Claus), Natalie Wood (Susan Walker)

An undisputed Christmas classic, 20th Century Fox’s Miracle on 34th Street is both an affecting parable about the power of faith and a thoughtful meditation on the true meaning of Christmas. Telling the story of an old man who gets a job at Macy’s department store as Santa Claus only to claim to be the real thing, Miracle on 34th Street‘s message and story has been parodied and imitated endlessly over the years. However, even though its narrative and message have influenced countless other Christmas movies, it remains a rarely-bettered seasonal gem. Given that it regularly tops lists of the best Christmas films of all time, it’s little surprise that Disney chose to feature it on its streaming platform.

Director: Thomas Kail | Runtime: 2h 40m

Cast: Daveed Diggs (Lafayette, Thomas Jefferson), Phillipa Soo (Eliza Hamilton), Jonathan Groff (King George III), Lin-Manuel Miranda (Alexander Hamilton)

Arguably the most influential musical of the past decade, Lin-Manuel Miranda’s sprawling hip-hopera is a testament to the power of theater. Written by and starring Miranda, the show tells the story of 10-dollar Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, charting his rise from poverty and obscurity to becoming one of the most significant figures in American history. The original show met with critical adulation and audience acclaim. However, by inviting cameras on stage, Disney+’s Hamilton breathes new life into the production, allowing viewers to get a closer look at the musical’s most intimate scenes. As such, Hamilton richly deserves to be included in any “best movies on Disney+” list, despite being a very different form of cinema.

Director: Boaz Yakin | Runtime: 1h 53m

Cast: Denzel Washington (Herman Boone), Will Patton (Bill Yoast), Donald Faison (Petey Jones), Nicole Ari Parker (Carol Boone)

Another true story sports drama, Remember the Titans is a prime example of how a genre often riddled with clichés can still produce genuinely magical moments. Denzel Washington plays football coach Herman Boone, a Black coach struggling to integrate a Virginia high school. Battling anger in both the team and the community, Boone somehow manages to bring his team together and mold them into a cohesive unit, putting issues of prejudice and hate in the rearview mirror. The movie’s positive message and powerful performances contributed to its success, with Washington winning acting awards from the BET Awards and the NAACP Image Awards.

Director: Robert Stevenson | Runtime: 1h 23m

Cast: Dorothy McGuire (Katie Coates), Fess Parker (Fess Coates), Jeff York (Bud Searcy), Chuck Connors (Burn Sanderson)

It’s indicative of Old Yeller‘s classic status that it has been so extensively parodied and referenced in the years since its release. The emotional family fable tells the story of a young boy who takes in a stray dog to help on the family ranch in 1960s Texas. What follows is a charming story of friendship as the boy and his pet form a bond over the years, making its inevitable tragic end all the more heartbreaking. However, despite the inevitable tears, Old Yeller remains a much-loved movie and one of the best on Disney+.

Director: Theodore Melfi | Runtime: 2h 7m

Cast: Taraji P. Henson (Katherine Goble Johnson), Octavia Spencer (Dorothy Vaughan), Janelle Monáe (Mary Jackson), Kevin Costner (Al Harrison), Kirsten Dunst (Vivian Mitchell)

Based on the novel by Margot Lee Shetterly, Hidden Figures is a historical drama that deservedly ranks among the best movies on Disney+. Telling the inspirational true story of three African American mathematicians (Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monae) who worked at NASA during the Space Race, the movie explores the lives of three extremely significant yet often ignored women. Despite some historical inaccuracies, the movie was a box office success, was highly praised by critics, and picked up three Oscar nominations, including Best Picture.

Director: Wolfgang Reitgherman | Runtime: 1h 23m

Cast: Peter Ustinov (Prince John), Phil Harris (Little John), Brian Bedford (Robin Hood), Roger Miller (Alan-a-Dale)

Combining the classic legend of England’s most famous outlaw with Disney’s signature anthropomorphic animal storytelling was always going to be a winner, and so it proved with the studio’s 1973 hit Robin Hood. Starring the likes of Peter Ustinov and Phil Harris, the movie not only delivers a great spin on the classic story, but also boasts some of the most iconic whistling in cinema history. Despite mixed reviews on release, Robin Hood remains a much-loved animated classic by multiple generations.

Director: Jared Bush and Bryon Howard | Runtime: 1h 42m

Cast: Stephanie Beatriz (Mirabel Madrigal), Maria Cecilia Botero (Abuela Alma), John Leguizamo (Bruno)

One of two animated Disney movies released in 2021, Encanto has already cemented its status as a studio classic. The movie follows a magical Colombian family, all of whom had powers except for loveable misfit Mirabel. However, when a tragedy occurs and the family finds their powers disappearing and their magical house falling apart, it is up to Mirabel to step up and save her family. The movie wasn’t as financially successful as other Disney animated movies thanks to its early Disney+ release, but it picked up three Oscar nominations, winning Best Animated Feature. Just don’t talk about Bruno.

Directors: John Musker & Ron Clements | Runtime: 1h 47m

Cast: Auli’i Cravalho (Moana), Dwayne Johnson (Maui), Rachel House (Gramma Tala), Temuera Morrison (Chief Tui), Jermaine Clement (Tamatoa), Nicole Scherzinger (Tina)

Featuring some of the most vivid and visually stunning animation ever seen in a Disney movie, Moana is a welcome update to the Disney princess story trope. Following the titular heroine, Moana is an all-action adventure set in the South Pacific, with Moana setting out to save her home from a deadly curse and restore balance to the ocean against the wishes of her family and father. Featuring a scene-stealing turn from Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Moana is a boundlessly entertaining story for the whole family. The movie went on to pick up two Oscar nominations, including Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song, although it lost the main award to fellow Disney animated movie, Zootopia.

Director: Clyde Geronimi, Wilfred Jackson, and Hamilton Luske | Runtime: 1h 16m

Cast: Barbara Luddy (Lady), Larry Roberts (The Tramp), Bill Thompson (Jock, Dachsie)

A classic from the Silver Era of Disney animation, Lady and the Tramp is a timeless romance that’s made no less powerful for its canine protagonists. The movie sees a pampered cocker spaniel puppy named Lady fall for a stray dog named Tramp. Like all the best Disney movies, the love story is underscored by some genuinely dark and scary moments, serving to make the story much more than its simple premise suggests. The fact that it received a live-action/CGI hybrid remake on the platform in 2019 only serves to illustrate its status as one of the best movies on Disney+.

Director: Don Hall, Chris Williams | Runtime: 1h 48m

Cast: Ryan Potter (Hiro Hamada), Scott Adsit (Baymax), Maya Rudolph (Cass), Jamie Chung (GoGo Tomago), T.J. Miller (Fred)

Loosely based on a Marvel comics team of the same name, Disney’s Big Hero 6 was a huge critical and commercial success for the studio. Telling the story of young Hiro Hamada, the movie’s real star is the lovably squishy care robot Baymax, who works with the young robotics wunderkind to form a superhero team and unmask a mysterious villain responsible for Hiro’s brother’s death. Hilarious and thrilling in equal measure, Big Hero 6 is sure to entertain viewers of all ages.

Directors: Byron Howard, Rich Moore | Runtime: 1h 49m

Cast: Ginnifer Goodwin (Judy Hopps), Jason Bateman (Nick Wilde)

Part of a new wave of successful Disney Animation, Zootopia deservedly ranks among the most critically acclaimed releases in recent years. Set in a fictional city filled with a colorful cast of animal inhabitants, the movie’s breezy script belies its ability to tackle heavy themes of prejudice and personal bias in an accessible, non-judgmental way. Undoubtedly one of the best Disney+ movies, Zootopia won the Best Animated Feature Oscar and spawned a Disney+ spin-off series after its release.

Director: Brad Bird | Runtime: 1h 51m

Cast: Patton Oswalt (Remy), Janeane Garofalo (Colette), Lou Romano (Linguine), Peter O’Toole (Anton Ego)

A fish out of water story that serves as a love letter to cooking, Ratatouille is rightly regarded as one of the best Pixar stories to date. The movie sees a gourmand rat named Remy team up with unassuming waiter Linguine to take over the kitchen at a top French restaurant. The strange premise is starting point for a beautiful story of creativity and the importance of embracing talent in the most unexpected places. Moving and hilarious, Ratatouille is understandably seen as a must-watch for any fans of food and film.

Director: John Musker & Rom Clements | Runtime: 1h 27m

Cast: Jodi Benson (Ariel), Samuel E. Wright (Sebastian), Pat Carroll (Ursula), Christopher Daniel Barnes (Prince Eric)

Following the release of the much-anticipated live-action remake, Disney’s original The Little Mermaid deserves to be revisited. Credited with kick-starting the so-called “Disney Renaissance“, the studio’s adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic fairytale removed many of the original’s more macabre elements, yet remains a timeless adventure full of unforgettable characters and classic songs. Heroine Ariel, a mermaid who dreams of a life above the waves, remains one of the most iconic Disney princesses – and for good reason. The Little Mermaid also features a Best Original Song Oscar winner and won Best Original Score at the awards, underlining its status as one of the best movies on Disney+.

Director: Domee Shi | Runtime: 1h 47m

Cast: Rosalie Chiang (Mei Lee), Sandra Oh (Ming Lee), James Hong (Sr. Gao)

Proof that Pixar is still capable of producing seminal animated movies, Turning Red has quickly gained a reputation as one of the studio’s best recent releases. The story follows Mei, a young girl living in Toronto who, along with struggling with an overbearing mother and the changes of adolescence, turns into a giant red panda whenever she gets excited. The film is a novel examination of what it means to come of age, doing so in a way that’s simultaneously thoughtful, funny, and entertaining. Originally released directly onto Disney+ it remains one of the best-animated movies of 2022, nominated at both the Oscars and Golden Globes.

Director: Tim Burton | Runtime: 1h 28m

Cast: Winona Ryder (Elsa Van Helsing), Catherine O’Hara (Weird Girl), Martin Short (Robert Nassor)

Based on the iconic horror story Frankenstein, Frankenweenie is widely regarded as a welcome return to form for director Tim Burton. In this version of the story “Frankenstein” is a young boy and the “monster” is his beloved pet dog he vows to bring back from the dead. However, after his successful experiment, Frankenstein is waylaid by other kids wanting to bring their own animals back to life, resulting in disaster when some of the revived animals end up on a rampage. The movie’s black and white palette utilizes Burton’s love for the gothic, and the film was deservedly nominated for an Oscar for Best Animated Film.

Director: Rich Moore | Runtime: 1h 45m

Cast: John C. Reilly (Ralph), Sarah Silverman (Vanellope), Jack McBrayer (Fix-it Felix), Jane Lynch (Sergeant Calhoun), Alan Tudyk (King Candy)

A novel take on the notoriously hard-to-pull-off video game movie adaptation, Wreck-It Ralph is a heartfelt tribute to classic Atari and Nintendo games. The film sees Ralph, played by John C. Reilly, attempt to change from perennial game villain to hero, traveling through a series of arcade games on a journey of self-discovery. Packed full of nostalgia and inventive action sequences, Wreck-It Ralph combines Disney’s signature moralism with a fast-paced narrative perfectly suited to its video game inspiration.

Director: Andrew Stanton | Runtime: 1h 39m

Cast: Ben Burtt (Wall-E), Elissa Knight (EVE), Sigourney Weaver (Axiom’s Computer), Jeff Garlin (Captain McRea), Fred Willard (Shelby Forthright)

One of the most inventive movies ever released by Pixar, Wall-E reminded audiences that a film doesn’t need dialogue to be hilarious, heartbreaking, and powerful. The movie follows a small robot on an abandoned Earth, cleaning up the mess left behind by humanity as civilization orbits the planet in a giant luxury spaceship. The movie was a post-apocalyptic tale made for kids, but one that also had a strong message for adults about the world in which they live. The movie was added to the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress, only the second Pixar movie to receive this honor after Toy Story.

Director: David Hand | Runtime: 1h 27m

Cast: Adriana Caselotti (Snow White), Lucille La Verne (Evil Queen)

Released in 1937, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is the first full-length animated movie and is rightly regarded as a watershed moment in the history of cinema. The story of Snow White, the seven dwarfs, and the evil Queen and her obsession with becoming the “fairest” of them all is familiar to almost everyone, yet is given a vitality and relatability by Disney’s timeless adaptation. Decades later, the beautiful animation and enchanting storytelling still hold up. Without this movie being a success, Disney would likely not be the major studio it is today.

Directors: Barry Cook, Tony Bancroft | Runtime: 1h 36m

Cast: Ming-Na Wen (Mulan), Eddie Murphy (Mushu), Pat Morita (Emperor), George Takei (First Ancestor)

Like many of the best animated movies on Disney+, Mulan challenges and subverts the so-called “Disney princess” stereotype. Instead of following the oft-repeated prince/princess dynamic, Mulan sees the titular heroine become her own savior, fighting in a war to both save her father and protect her land. The movie was a massive success, making over $304 million at the box office (via Box Office Mojo) while also earning an Oscar and Golden Globe nomination for Best Animated Feature.

Director: Pete Docter | Runtime: 1h 36m

Cast: Ed Asner (Carl), Jordan Nagai (Russell), Christopher Plummer (Charles Muntz), Bob Peterson (Dug)

Pixar movie Up is rightly notorious for its tear-jerkingly tragic opening sequence. However, there’s much more to the movie than one sad montage. Following the old and curmudgeonly Carl, the movie blends science fiction with fantasy as the old hero finally realizes his dream of visiting Paradise Falls in a house born aloft by balloons. Accompanied by classic companions Doug and Russell, Up is a universally beloved buddy comedy that justifies its contemporary success – making $735 million at the box office (via Box Office Mojo) and becoming only the second animated movie in history to get an Oscar nomination for Best Picture.

Director: Wolfgang Reitherman | Runtime: 1h 20m

Cast: Phil Harris (Baloo), Sebastian Cabot (Bagheera), Bruce Reitherman (Mowgli), George Sanders (Shere Khan)

Disney has no shortage of classic animated musicals that contain engaging stories, great songs, and plenty of comedic moments, yet the formula is arguably perfected with The Jungle Book. Bagheera, Baloo, Shere Khan, King Louie, and Kaa make up a diverse cast of jungle animals who all have memorable interactions with the protagonist, Mowgli. The Jungle Book follows Mowgli as he encounters numerous animals on his journey through the jungle while being hunted by the vicious tiger, Shere Khan. The Jungle Book‘s story and characters remain so iconic that several remakes have been done over the years, yet Disney’s 1967 animation arguably remains the definitive adaptation.

Director: Wolfgang Reitherman | Runtime: 1h 22m

Cast: Betty Lou Gerson (Cruella de Vil), Rod Taylor (Pongo), Cate Bauer (Perdita), Lisa Davis (Anita Radcliffe)

One Hundred and One Dalmatians exemplifies Disney’s ability to produce ostensibly child-friendly content, yet make it just as enjoyable for an adult audience. After a litter of Dalmatian puppies is kidnapped by iconic Disney villain Cruella de Vil, the movie sees their heroic mother and father set out to rescue them. One Hundred And One Dalmatians has a sophisticated tone, treating the mission like a series thriller while still being fun for kids. There is also exceptional world-building with the network of dogs working to save the pups, plus some genuinely pulse-racing moments as Cruella’s evil plan takes shape.

Director: Andrew Stanton | Runtime: 1h 44m

Cast: Albert Brooks (Marlin), Ellen DeGeneres (Dory), Willem Dafoe (Gill), Alexander Gould (Nemo)

Groundbreaking upon its release and a perennially popular part of Pixar’s stable, Finding Nemo is a classic adventure story. The movie follows clownfish father Marlin on his quest across the ocean to rescue his kidnapped son, who improbably ends up imprisoned in a dentist’s fish tank. On the way, Marlin must navigate sharks, surfing turtles, and swarms of jellyfish, overcoming his own fear of the open sea and proving the power of parental love. The movie was nominated for three Oscars and was the first Pixar movie to win Best Animated Feature.

Director: Pete Docter | Runtime: 1h 32m

Cast: Billy Crystal (Mike Wazowski), John Goodman (Sully), Steve Buscemi (Randall)

Monsters Inc maintained Pixar’s track record for critically acclaimed and smart animated movies capable of entertaining kids and adults alike. The movie takes place in the fictional Monstropolis – a society of bizarre-looking yet ultimately ordinary monsters who power their city with children’s extracted screams. However, when two monsters (Sully and Mike) meet a little girl named Boo, they realize that the Monsters’ relationship with humans is more complicated than it seems. One of the best Disney+ movies on the streaming service, the movie won the Oscar for Best Song but lost out on the Best Animated Feature Oscar to Shrek. It also spawned a sequel and a Disney+ series.

Director: Gary Trousdale, Kirk Wise | Runtime: 1h 32m

Cast: Paige O’Hara (Belle), Robby Benson (The Beast), Angela Lansbury (Mrs. Potts), David Ogden Stiers (Cogsworth), Jerry Orbach (Lumière)

Beauty and the Beast will go down in history as the movie that changed the relationship between animated features and the Oscars. After its release in 1991, the Disney movie was nominated for the Best Film Oscar, and it was one of the favorites to win the award. However, after it lost, a sweeping measure was passed that finally created a new category for animated movies. Only one other animated movie was nominated for Best Film since, but every animated movie that won an Oscar owed it to this tale of a beast who has to make a woman fall in love with him in order to lift a curse.

Director: Pete Docter | Runtime: 1h 35m

Cast: Amy Poehler (Joy), Phyllis Smith (Sadness), Richard Kind (Bing Bong), Bill Hader (Fear), Mindy Kaling (Disgust), Lewis Black (Anger)

One of Pixar’s most thoughtful and intensely emotional releases to date, Inside Out is a thoughtful metaphor for growing up and what it means to leave childhood behind. Taking place within the brain of a young girl named Riley, the movie personifies her emotions as characters in the form of Sadness, Joy, Anger, Disgust, and Fear. Not just a typically thrilling adventure, Inside Out also explores what it is to be human and ultimately how our emotions – however painful – help define who we are. The movie received universal acclaim, winning 10 Annie Awards and earning its place among the best movies on Disney+.

Directors: Chris Buck, Jennifer Lee | Runtime: 1h 46m

Cast: Kristen Bell (Anna), Idina Menzel (Elsa), Jonathan Groff (Kristoff), Josh Gad (Olaf)

One of the biggest Disney movies of all time, Frozen is perhaps the studio’s most successful modern musical. Although iconic songs like “Let It Go” and the visually stunning rendition of Elsa’s ice powers help the movie stand out, what really sets Frozen apart is its beautifully understated exploration of sisterly love. This subversion of established tropes helped Frozen win the Best Animated Feature Oscar. The fact that it grossed more than $1 billion (via Box Office Mojo) and has become part of the zeitgeist only underlines its status.

Director: John Lasseter | Runtime: 1h 24m

Cast: Tom Hanks (Woody), Tim Allen (Buzz Lightyear)

Toy Story is a landmark movie, credited with kicking off Pixar’s journey to becoming one of the great animation studios as well as beginning one of the greatest movie franchises of all time. The movie’s ground-breaking animation and premise of what toys do when their kids leave the room all laid the groundwork for Pixar’s signature style and effective world-building. However, beyond this, Toy Story is fundamentally one of the best movies friendship ever made, with the rocky relationship between Woody and Buzz Lightyear turning them both into instant icons. All this easily makes Toy Story one of the best movies on Disney+.

Director: Roger Allers, Rob Minkoff | Runtime: 1h 33m

Cast: James Earl Jones (Mufasa), Jeremy Irons (Scar), Matthew Broderick (Simba), Rowan Atkinson (Zazu)

The cornerstone of the so-called Disney Renaissance, The Lion King is perhaps the pinnacle of the studio’s traditional hand-drawn animation style. A huge hit in 1994 (pulling in close to $1 billion at the worldwide box office, via Box Office Mojo), The Lion King is an innovative take on Shakespeare’s Hamlet, telling a Machiavellian tale of succession and betrayal. These themes meant that the movie unusually dark for Disney, but compelling characters, wonderful songs, and a gripping story gave The Lion King a reputation as one of the best-animated films ever made, and easily one of the best Disney+ movies.

Director: Henry Selick | Runtime: 1h 16m

Cast: Danny Elfman (Jack Skellington), Catherine O’Hara (Sally)

Although its status as a Halloween or Christmas movie is up for debate, what’s beyond any doubt is that The Nightmare Before Christmas is an absolute classic – whatever the season. Revolving around antihero Jack Skellington’s identity crisis as he tries to take over Christmas from Santa Claus, the movie is deliciously spooky throughout. The stop-motion style allows for some truly shudder-inducing visuals, while a slew of unforgettable songs only enhance the action. The fact that The Nightmare Before Christmas also holds the honor of being the first animated movie to ever earn an Oscar nomination for Visual Effects is unsurprising, given its quality.

Director: Brad Bird | Runtime: 1h 55m

Cast: Craig T. Nelson (Bob Parr), Holly Hunter (Helen Parr), Jason Lee (Syndrome), Samuel L. Jackson (Frozone)

Although clearly an animated movie, The Incredibles is rightly regarded as the best adaptation of Marvel’s Fantastic Four ever to hit screens. Brad Bird’s story of a super-powered family trying to wrestle with suburban tedium combines classic Pixar storytelling with many of the tropes that have now become familiar thanks to the MCU. At its heart, it is a movie about a world that needs heroes, even if it doesn’t know it, and about how to become a hero even in the face of terrifying adversity. The movie picked up four Oscar nominations, winning for Best Animated Feature and Best Sound Editing.

Director: Steven Lisberger | Runtime: 1h 36m

Cast: Jeff Bridges (Kevin Flynn), Bruce Boxleitner (Tron)

While some of its visual effects might seem slightly outdated, Tron remains a revolutionary touchstone in science fiction, popularizing the concept of virtual reality. Starring Jeff Bridges as Kevin Flynn, a software engineer who hacks into a company’s mainframe and ends up trapped in a virtual reality world, the movie was one of Disney’s highest-grossing live-action movies at the time, and it helped inspire many computer and virtual reality movies that came after it. Although a much-maligned sequel followed, the original remains a genre classic.

Director: James Cameron | Runtime: 2h 42m

Cast: Sam Worthington (Jake Sully), Zoe Saldana (Neytiri), Sigourney Weaver (Dr. Grace Augustine), Stephen Lang (Colonel Miles Quaritch)

Although Avatar 2 has effectively added to James Cameron’s vibrant alien world, the saga’s original adventure on Pandora remains unsurpassed in terms of world-building. The story of Jake Sully learning about the Navi culture and becoming a part of it while trying to thwart the threat of Earth colonizers is both timeless and thrilling. The film did the seemingly impossible in becoming the top-grossing movie of all time (via Box Office Mojo), kick-starting an epic franchise in the process. Cameron combined stunning visuals with masterful storytelling to create something special, resulting in one of the best Disney+ movies on the service.

Director: Shawn Levy | Runtime: 1h 57m

Cast: Ryan Reynolds (Guy), Jodie Comer (Molotov Girl), Joe Keery (Keys), Taika Waititi (Antwan)

Ryan Reynolds continued to prove that there’s more to his repertoire than Deadpool with the hugely entertaining and original action-comedy Free Guy. A box office hit on its release in 2021, Free Guy‘s cameo-heavy narrative sees Reynolds become a sentient NPC stuck inside a popular video game. The movie’s virtual setting allows it to push visual boundaries, creating a thrilling and often hilarious story. However, it’s the movie’s surprisingly touching emotional core that helps mark Free Guy as one of the best sci-fi movies on Disney+.

Director: Joe Johnston | Runtime: 1h 33m

Cast: Rick Moranis (Wayne Szalinski), Matt Frewer (Russell Thompson Sr.), Marcia Strassman (Diane Szalinski), Kristine Sutherland (Mae Thompson), Thomas Wilson Brown (Russell Thompson Jr.)

Rick Moranis followed up his breakout role in Ghostbusters with the starring role in the sci-fi comedy, Honey, I Shrunk the Kids. The movie doesn’t disappoint. As the title hints, Moranis is a scientist named Wayne Szalinski who designed a ray gun that can shrink and grow objects. However, it is his kids and a neighbor kid who end up accidentally shrunk and having to find a way to get their dad’s attention while avoiding dangers they never imagined. The movie was a box office success, making $222 million (via Box Office Mojo), and spawned sequels, a TV series, and even a Disney Park attraction.

Director: Joe Johnston | Runtime: 1h 48m

Cast: Bill Campbell (The Rocketeer), Alan Arkin (Peevy), Jennifer Connelly (Jenny)

Unfairly overlooked upon release, Joe Johnston’s The Rocketeer has undergone a deserved reappraisal in recent years. Now regarded as a cult classic, the movie tells the story of a stunt pilot who discovers a mysterious jet pack in the 1930s, who then uses his new gadget to combat the Nazis. Filled with a childish sense of wonder, as well as a devilish turn from Timothy Dalton, The Rocketeer is in many ways a throwback to classic stories of heroism – yet no less enjoyable for its more derivative elements.

Director: James Cameron | Runtime: 3h 12m

Cast: Sam Worthington (Jake Sully), Zoey Saldana (Neytiri), Kate Winslet (Ronal), Stephen Lang (Miles Quaritch)

Following the most successful film of all time over a decade after it left cinemas was never going to be easy. However, despite the odds, James Cameron’s Avatar sequel proved that Pandora still has the power to amaze. Picking up years after the events of the first film, The Way Of Water finds Jake and Neytiri struggling to protect their family and way of life after the return of the human antagonists. Featuring some truly breathtaking special effects – especially in the extended underwater sequences – Avatar: The Way Of Water has secured the legacy of the franchise and laid the groundwork for even more exciting future entries.

Director: George Lucas | Runtime: 2h 5m

Cast: Mark Hamill (Luke Skywalker), Harrison Ford (Han Solo), Carrie Fisher (Leia Organa), Alec Guinness (Obi-Wan Kenobi), James Earl Jones (Darth Vader)

One of the most influential and significant movies in cinema history Star Wars: A New Hope created an unrivaled legacy and started one of the biggest media franchises of all time. Boasting incredible special effects and an unforgettable story of rebellion against the evil and oppressive Empire, the movie’s iconic components are almost too numerous to count. Characters like Han Solo and Darth Vader, inventions like the lightsaber, and music that continues to pervade popular culture all make A New Hope a must-watch for science fiction fans and indisputably one of the best movies on Disney+.

Director: Ivan Kershner | Runtime: 2h 8m

Cast: Mark Hamill (Luke Skywalker), Harrison Ford (Han Solo), Carrie Fisher (Leia Organa)

Deciding upon the best Star Wars movie is, to many fans, like asking to choose a favorite child, yet many will often agree that The Empire Strikes Back stands head and shoulders above the rest. A dark follow-up to the breezy A New Hope, the movie sees the sinister forces of Darth Vader and the Empire pursue Luke, Leia, and Han across the Galaxy, resulting in iconic one-liners and unforgettable parental revelations. The movie’s 8.7 IMDb score is higher than any movie in the franchise according to fan votes, which coupled with a 94% on Rotten Tomatoes marks The Empire Strikes Back as one of the best movies of any genre on Disney+.

Director: Rian Johnson | Runtime: 2h 34m

Cast: Daisy Ridley (Rey), Adam Driver (Kylo Ren), John Boyega (Finn), Mark Hamill (Luke Skywalker), Carrie Fisher (Leia Organa), Oscar Isaac (Poe Dameron)

Despite being deeply polarizing movie, there’s no denying that Rian Johnson’s The Last Jedi brought some genuinely bold and original thinking to a franchise in dire need of innovation. Following from The Force Awakens, the film sees Mark Hamill’s Luke Skywalker act as a reluctant mentor to Rey, setting her on the path to Jedihood. Essentially ignored by its follow-up (making it something of a narrative oddity), The Last Jedi remains a genuinely daring addition to the Star Wars canon that is often unfairly maligned for trying to be different.

Director: Gareth Edwards | Runtime: 2h 16m

Cast: Felicity Jones (Jin Erso), Diego Luna (Cassian Andor), Donnie Yen (Chirrut Ïmwe)

Disney’s Star Wars acquisition has seen a proliferation of content set in a galaxy far, far away – not all of it good. Rogue One, however, is living proof that there are still plenty of thrilling stories to be told in the Star Wars universe. A prequel set before the events of A New Hope, Rogue One focuses on a daring Rebel mission to locate the Death Star plans. Starring Diego Luna, who has since gone on to star in his own spin-off Andor, the film made over $1 billion worldwide (via Box Office Mojo) and remains one of the highest-rated Star Wars movies based on critics’ scores.

Director: George Lucas | Runtime: 2h 20m

Cast: Hayden Christensen (Anakin Skywalker), Ewan McGregor (Obi-Wan Kenobi), Natalie Portman (Padmé Amidala), Ian McDiarmid (Emperor Palpatine)

Following the record-breaking success of the original trilogy, the Star Wars prequels were – at least initially – seen as something of a let-down. However, even before the subsequent revaluation, it was clear that Revenge of the Sith was a worthy and epic conclusion to Anakin Skywalker’s tragic arc. Chronicling the end of the Clone Wars and the final fall of the Jedi, Episode III marks Skywalker’s transformation into Darth Vader with some truly epic lightsaber duels, a sweeping gothic narrative, and an undeniably moving finale. While some of the dialog may not stand up to scrutiny, Revenge of the Sith‘s reputation has justifiably grown with age.

Director: Tim Miller | Runtime: 1h 48m

Cast: Ryan Reynolds (Wade Wilson), Morena Baccarin (Vanessa), Ed Skrein (Ajax), T.J. Miller (Weasel), Gina Carano (Angel Dust)

In proving that an R-rated comic book movie based on a Marvel Comics character could become a massive success, Deadpool did what many considered to be impossible. It also gave Ryan Reynolds the superhero role he was born to play after failures like Green Lantern and X-Men Origins: Wolverine. The movie serves as a revamped origin story for Deadpool and ended up making $782 million on a $58 million budget (via Box Office Mojo). This led to a successful sequel and the film’s release as one of the first R-rated movies to make it to Disney+. Marvel is also making a third movie, also R-rated, under the MCU banner, proving Deadpool‘s enduring popularity.

Director: Jon Watts | Runtime: 2h 13m

Cast: Tom Holland (Peter Parker), Michael Keaton (Vulture), Jon Favreau (Happy Hogan), Zendaya (M.J. Watson), Marisa Tomei (Aunt May), Robert Downey Jr. (Tony Stark)

After years spent languishing in Sony-owned mediocrity, Spider-Man: Homecoming saw the character flourish in the MCU after a cameo appearance in Captain America: Civil War. The result was a reminder of what makes Spider-Man such a unique comic book character. Expertly played by Tom Holland, the MCU’s Peter Parker is both endearingly innocent and frustratingly naive. However, it’s a testament to Holland’s performance that the audience never stops routing for him, resulting in one of Spidey’s most straightforwardly enjoyable cinematic outings yet.

Director: Taika Waititi | Runtime: 2h 12m

Cast: Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Tom Hiddleston (Loki), Cate Blanchett (Hela), Mark Ruffalo (Hulk)

Given that the entire Marvel Cinematic Universe can be found on Disney+, identifying which superhero movie to watch is no easy task. Thankfully, the presence of Thor: Ragnarok makes finding a refreshingly tongue-in-cheek one-off adventure incredibly straightforward. Revamping the character’s somber, pseudo-Shakesperian image from previous appearances, Thor: Ragnarok finally allowed Hemsworth’s demi-god to live up to his potential. Director Taika Waititi’s signature off-beat humor is a perfect match for the character, and the movie remains both Thor’s and the Hulk’s strongest on-screen outing to date.

Director: James Mangold | Runtime: 2h 17m

Cast: Hugh Jackman (Wolverine/X-24), Patrick Stewart (Charles Xavier), Richard E. Grant (Dr. Zander Rice), Boyd Holbrook (Donald Pierce)

A reminder that superhero movies can have real, devastating stakes, Logan was arguably the perfect send-off for Hugh Jackman’s take on Wolverine. Frequently cited as one of the best superhero movies ever made and one of the best movies on Disney+, the movie is far more brutal and realistic than many of its genre counterparts. Logan sees Jackman’s Wolverine act as a carer for Professor X in a post-mutant world ravaged by conflict. The film remains unlike any other superhero movie and was the first in the genre to ever receive an Oscar nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay.

Director: Jon Favreau | Runtime: 2h 7m

Cast: Robert Downey Jr (Tony Stark), Gwyneth Paltrow (Pepper Potts), Jeff Bridges (Obadiah Stane)

Directed by Jon Favreau and starring Robert Downey, Jr. as Tony Stark, 2008’s Iron Man is the film that launched the MCU, making it easily one of the most influential superhero films ever. Iron Man gave audiences an unlikely protagonist: an egotistical billionaire playboy who starts on a path to becoming the Armored Avenger after being forced to build a metal suit for a group of terrorists. With Downey Jr. now out of the MCU, Iron Man feels all the more impactful and cements its place as one of the best and most important additions to the ever-expanding cinematic universe.

Director: Ryan Coogler | Runtime: 2h 43m

Cast: Letitia Wright (Shuri), Lupita Nyong’o (Nakia), Danai Gurira (Okoye), Angela Bassett (Ramonda), Tenoch Huerta (Namor)

After the massive cultural impact of Black Panther, the sequel had understandably huge expectations. The movie faced even greater difficulties with the tragic and unforeseen death of star Chadwick Boseman, leading to serious questions about how best to honor the actor’s legacy. The fact that the sequel turned out to be a worthy follow-up and tribute to Boseman is a testament to Ryan Coogler and his team. From Shuri’s rise as the new Black Panther to the introduction of Namor, to Angela Bassett’s Oscar-nominated performance, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever was a fitting end to Phase 4 and a touching tribute to T’Challa.

Director: James Gunn | Runtime: 2h 2m-2h

Cast: Chris Pratt (Peter Quill), Zoe Saldana (Gamora), Dave Bautista (Drax), Bradley Cooper (Rocket), Vin Diesel (Groot)

If there was ever any question about whether the MCU could maintain its success post-The Avengers, the studio answered the question emphatically with Guardians of the Galaxy. Utilizing a relatively obscure Marvel property, the movies have surprised many with their swashbuckling stories of criminal misfits coming together to save the galaxy. James Gunn’s uniquely irreverent sense of humor was perfectly suited to the Guardians’ stories, while the trilogy’s iconic soundtrack has given all three films a distinct identity, resulting in some of the best Disney+ movies and a highlight of the MCU.

Directors: Anthony Russo, Joe Russo | Runtime: 2h 34m

Cast: Chris Evans (Steve Rogers), Robert Downey Jr (Tony Stark), Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Josh Brolin (Thanos)

Although the MCU in its entirety is an almost unparalleled achievement of interwoven storytelling, Avengers: Infinity War represents the pinnacle of the shared universe. It also packs the biggest emotional punch as, for once, the story’s heroes are denied their victory in devastating fashion. From the way the movie finally brings Thanos into the spotlight, to the devastating climax, Avengers: Infinity War is a bold and epic blockbuster that understandably grossed more than $2 billion (via Box Office Mojo) and had audiences anticipating the follow-up.

Director: Bryan Singer | Runtime: 2h 12m

Cast: Hugh Jackman (Wolverine), James McAvoy (Charles Xavier), Michael Fassbender (Magneto), Jennifer Lawrence (Mystique), Halle Berry (Storm), Anna Paquin (Rogue), Ian McKellen (Magneto), Patrick Stewart (Professor X), Peter Dinklage (Dr. Bolivar Trask)

The Fox X-Men movies laid the foundation for the MCU and the superhero genre’s dominance at the box office. Although the franchise’s quality dipped with later releases, Days of Future Past remains a high point for the franchise and is one of the best movies on Disney+. A retelling of a celebrated comic book arc, the movie sees the X-Men send Wolverine back to the past to stop an event that would destroy the world. This allowed Fox to bring the new younger cast and mix in the original X-Men cast as the versions from the future, with Hugh Jackman’s Logan as the man who tied it all together. This was the first X-Men movie to ever win an Oscar, taking home the award for Visual Effects.

Directors: Anthony Russo, Joe Russo | Runtime: 2h 18m

Cast: Chris Evans (Steve Rogers), Sebastian Stan (Bucky Barnes), Anthony Mackie (The Falcon), Scarlett Johansson (Natasha Romanov)

In 2014, Captain America: The Winter Soldier proved the flexibility and potential of the superhero genre by presenting a true spy/espionage movie set within the overarching narrative of the MCU. While superheroes existed, the movie was no different from a James Bond movie when it came to action and set pieces, and it ended up as one of the best MCU movies ever made at that time. It picked up one Oscar nomination, made $714 million worldwide (via Box Office Mojo), and secured the Russo brothers’ spot when it came to directing the MCU’s biggest movies a few years later.

Director: Sam Raimi | Runtime: 2h 7m

Cast: Tobey Maguire (Peter Parker), Kirsten Dunst (M.J. Watson), James Franco (Harry Osbourne), Alfred Molina (Dr. Otto Octavius)

Although they exist separately from the MCU, the Sony Spider-Man movies remain a significant achievement in the superhero genre. While they all have their merits, Spider-Man 2 is undoubtedly the best of the bunch. The movie brought back Tobey Maguire as Spider-Man and Kirsten Dunst as Mary Jane Watson, but what really made the film stand out was the villain. Alfred Molina starred as Doctor Octopus, a good man driven mad by artificially intelligent metal arms and an insatiable desire to complete an ill-advised science project. The movie was one of 2004’s highest-grossing movies and picked up three Oscar nominations, winning one.

Director: Jon Watts | Runtime: 2h 28m

Cast: Tom Holland (Peter Parker), Tobey Maguire (Peter Parker), Andrew Garfield (Peter Parker)

As subsequent MCU entries have already proven, telling a compelling multiversal story is no easy feat. Given the difficulties, Spider-Man: No Way Home‘s success is even more of an achievement. After being unmasked as Spider-Man, the movie sees Tom Holland’s Peter Parker collude with Doctor Strange in an effort to wipe the world’s memory. The resulting disaster sees familiar villains from multiple alternate universes career head-first into the MCU, with predictably explosive results. Smart, funny, and a perfect addendum to Spider-Man stories past and present, Spider-Man: No Way Home represents the pinnacle of the MCU’s efforts when it comes to the multiverse.

Director: Destin Daniel Cretton | Runtime: 2h 12m

Cast: Simu Liu (Shang-Chi), Awkwafina (Katy), Tony Leung (Xu Wengwu), Michelle Yeoh (Ying Nan)

Following the paradigm-shifting finale to Avengers: Endgame, the MCU found itself in a somewhat precarious position. Maintaining interest in the franchise while introducing a raft of new characters was guaranteed to be a challenge, and the lukewarm reception to projects like Eternals proved that nothing was a given. However, the success of movies like Shang-Chi provides ample evidence that there’s still plenty of interest in the franchise. Following a son’s quest to thwart his father and claim a powerful magical birthright, the movie was praised for its humor, considered examination of Asian culture, and for its ambitious expansion of the wider MCU.

Directors: Joe and Anthony Russo | Runtime: 3h 2m

Cast: Robert Downey Jr. (Tony Stark), Chris Evans (Steve Rogers), Josh Brolin (Thanos), Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Scarlett Johansson (Natasha Romanov)

Arguably the most ambitious crossover movie ever attempted, Endgame tied up over a decade of interconnected storytelling into an epic, no-holds-barred finale. Following the devastating ending to Infinity War, the current final Avengers movie saw the survivors of Thanos’ snap attempt to rebuild the broken world, and even try to restore what was lost. A mixture of taught storytelling, touching character development, and sly humor saw Avengers: Endgame, for a time, become the highest-grossing movie ever, before being surpassed by an Avatar rerelease. However, irrespective of the numbers, the movie is a staggering achievement and one of the best Marvel and superhero movies on Disney+.

Director: James Bobin | Runtime: 1h 43m

Cast: Jason Segel (Gary), Amy Adams (Mary), Chris Cooper (Tex Richman), Rashida Jones (Veronica), Steve Whitmire (Kermit, various Muppets)

A rare reboot that both honors its original inspiration and stands on its own merits, The Muppets is a worthy update to the classic IP. When a villain wants to destroy the old Muppet Theater, the team has to work together to save it alongside human co-stars Jason Segel and Amy Adams. What helps the film stand out is the filmmaker’s clear affection for the original Muppets, making the light-hearted romp entirely devoid of cynicism. The movie ended up as an Oscar winner for Best Original Song and also picked up a sequel called Muppets Most Wanted.

Director: Robert Zemeckis | Runtime: 1h 43m

Cast: Bob Hoskins (Eddie Valiant), Christopher Lloyd (Judge Doom)

A ground-breaking comedy that seamlessly blends animation and live-action, Who Framed Roger Rabbit is a riot from start to finish. Set in a world where “‘toons” and humans coexist, the story follows a detective (Bob Hoskins) hired to clear Roger Rabbit’s name when he is accused of murder. The integration of live-action and animation is pulled off expertly and still holds up today. The movie is stuffed with cameos from animated icons within the Disney universe and elsewhere, with director Robert Zemeckis pushing the boundaries of both mediums with hilarious and genuinely surprising results.

Director: Kevin Lima | Runtime: 1h 47m

Cast: Amy Adams (Giselle), Patrick Dempsey (Robert Philip), James Marsden (Prince Edward), Idina Menzel (Nancy Tremaine)

Irresistibly charming, Enchanted took the idea of the Disney princess and turned it on its head in one of the best Disney+ movies. Starring Amy Adams, the movie begins as a somewhat stereotypical Disney animated movie, but when Princess Giselle ends up tricked into a magical portal, she ends up in real-world New York City. The high-concept fish-out-of-water story allows for some hilarious hijinks, as the reality of a real Disney princess struggling to navigate contemporary America leads to predictably chaotic results.

Director: Leonard Nimoy | Runtime: 1h 42m

Cast: Tom Selleck (Peter Mitchell), Steve Guttenberg (Michael Killam), Ted Danson (Jack Holden), Nancy Travis (Sylvia Bennington)

While the movie is best known for the legend that a real-life ghost appeared in the background of one of the scenes, Three Men and a Baby remains one of the best movies on Disney+. Directed by Leonard Nimoy (Spock from Star Trek), the movie featured three bachelors (Tom Selleck, Steve Guttenberg, and Ted Danson) who have to grow up when a baby is left on their doorstep. The movie received positive reviews and was a box-office success upon release.

Director: Brian Henson | Runtime: 1h 26m

Cast: Michael Caine (Ebenezer Scrooge), Frank Oz , Dave Goelz, Steve Whitmire (Various Muppets)

After The Muppet Show and the first Muppet Movie, the Muppets went on several adventures in movies that honored other classic stories. However, it was in 1992 that the franchise’s masterpiece arrived in the form of The Muppet Christmas Carol. An homage to Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol, the movie sees Michael Caine playing a human Scrooge while Kermit stars opposite as Bob Cratchit. Jim Henson’s son Brian directed the movie two years after his dad’s death, expertly enhancing his father’s legacy. The movie remains one of the most beloved Muppets movies in history and one of the best movies on Disney+.

Director: Michael Giacchino | Runtime: 47m

Cast: Gael Garcia Bernal (Jack Russell), Laura Donnelly (Elsa Bloodstone), Harriet Sansom Harris (Verusa Bloodstone)

A love letter to classic Hammer horror movies, Werewolf By Night is a radical departure from the established MCU formula. Despite only being 47 minutes long, the TV special arguably crams more gore and horror into its runtime than much of the rest of the franchise combined. The plot centers around a team of monster hunters, brought together to decide who will become the new leader of the shadowy cabal. The process will be decided by the successful pursuit and capture of a mysterious and deadly adversary. Deliciously gothic and frequently funny in places, Werewolf By Night is a welcome foray into fantasy for Marvel.

Director: Steven Spielberg | Runtime: 1h 58m

Cast: Mark Rylance (The BFG), Ruby Barnhill (Sophie), Jemaine Clement (Fleshlumpeater), Rebecca Hall (Mary), Bill Hader (Bloodbottler)

Steven Spielberg has one of the best movies on Disney+ thanks to his 2016 fantasy tale, The BFG. Based on the book by Roald Dahl, the movie follows a young orphan’s adventures with the titular Big Friendly Giant, navigating the perils of giant country while trying to return to her world. Despite box office failure, the movie received positive reviews and is a great adaptation of a celebrated children’s literary classic.

Director: Rob Reiner | Runtime: 1h 38m

Cast: Cary Elwes (Westley), Mandy Patinkin (Inigo Montoya), Wallace Shawn (Vizzini), Robin Wright (Buttercup)

Part-typical fairytale romance, part-complete rejection of the genre, The Princess Bride plays with audience expectations to create a completely original and beguiling story. Using the charming framing device of a grandfather reading a story to his grandson, The Princess Bride tells the tale of a common girl who falls for her devoted stable boy only for fate, villainy, and mayhem to challenge their quest for “happily ever after.” As well as its sense of humor, The Princess Bride‘s characters may be its biggest strength with the swashbuckling hero Inigo Montoya and gentle giant Fezzik among the highlights.

Director: Gore Verbinski | Runtime: 2h 25m

Cast: Johnny Depp (Jack Sparrow), Orlando Bloom (Will Turner), Keira Knightley (Elizabeth Swann), Geoffrey Rush (Captain Barbosa)

Representing the start of one of Disney’s most important live-action franchises, Pirates of the Caribbeans: Curse of the Black Pearl is still the pinnacle of the long-running series. The movie introduces the romance between Orlando Bloom’s Will Turner and Keira Knightley’s Elizabeth Swann, two lovers who became embroiled in a battle with pirates and the Royal Navy. However, the movie will forever be associated with Johnny Depp’s Oscar-nominated performance as the melodramatic Jack Sparrow. Along with the fun of the characters, Pirates of the Caribbean is pure adventure movie entertainment that feels like a throwback with some huge and thrilling action sequences.

Director: Robert Stevenson | Runtime: 2h 23m

Cast: Julie Andrews (Mary Poppins), Dick Van Dyke (Bert)

Before Who Framed Roger Rabbit pushed the boundaries of live-action and animation, Mary Poppins set the benchmark for the subgenre. A musical fantasy that’s simultaneously uproarious, melancholy, the movie sees Julie Andrews star as one of the most beloved characters in cinema history. One of the best Disney+ movies, Mary Poppins received an impressive 13 Oscar nominations, including Best Picture. It was the most for any Disney picture at that time in history. It won five, including one for Andrew’s for Best Actress. It was added to the National Film Registry in 2013 and a sequel arrived in 2018, which is also on Disney+.

Director: Andrew Adamson | Runtime: 2h 23m

Cast: William Moseley (Peter), Anna Popplewell (Susan), Skandar Keynes (Edmund), Georgie Henley (Lucy), Tilda Swinton (The White Witch), James McAvoy (Mr. Tumnus), Liam Neeson (Aslan)

A worthy adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ celebrated novel, The Chronicles of Narnia was a huge success upon release. While there were sequels, none received the plaudits of the original movie based on the children’s book series. The story follows four British children evacuated during the Blitz in World War II who find a magical wardrobe that transports them to the magical world of Narnia. The movie made $745 million at the box office (via Box Office Mojo) and its three Oscar nominations with one win make it one of the best movies on Disney+.

Director: Ron Howard | Runtime: 2h 6m

Cast: Val Kilmer (Madmartigan), Joanne Whalley (Sorsha), Warwick Davis (Willow Ufgood)

Based on a story by George Lucas, Ron Howard’s beloved fantasy movie Willow is now regarded as a cult classic – despite mixed contemporary reviews. The movie sees Warwick Davis take on the role of Willow, an aspiring magician who has to team up with a warrior (Val Kilmer) to protect a baby princess from an evil queen. While not a huge success at the box office, it was a hit when it reached home video and ended up receiving two Oscar nominations. One of the best movies on Netflix, it also picked up a sequel series on Disney+ in 2022 with Davis returning to the role.

Director: Kenny Ortega | Runtime: 1h 36m

Cast: Bette Midler (Winifred Sanderson), Sarah Jessica Parker (Sarah Sanderson), Kathy Najimy (Mary Sanderson)

Easily one of the most popular cult classic Halloween movies ever made, Hocus Pocus also ranks among the best fantasy movies on Disney+ movies. Simultaneously scary and funny, the movie focuses on the evil Sanderson witches, who are accidentally resurrected by a teenage boy in Salem, Massachusetts on Halloween night. The movie was a box office flop when released but has lived on as a beloved cult classic. Hocus Pocus even had a sequel that hit Disney+ in 2022, 29 years after the original hit theaters.

Director: Penny Marshall | Runtime: 1h 44m

Cast: Tom Hanks (Josh Baskin), Elizabeth Perkins (Susan), Jared Rushton (Billy)

Among Tom Hanks’ best movies is the pitch-perfect comedy Big. The movie follows a young boy whose wish to be bigger comes true when he is turned into an adult (Hanks) overnight. Hanks earned his first Oscar nomination for the role and adeptly captures the youthful energy of a child thrust into the adult world. Seeing him navigate business and relationships is a blast while the charm of the movie is perfectly encapsulated by the famous sequence where Hanks and Robert Loggia perform a duet on a floor keyboard.

Director: Steven Spielberg | Runtime: 1h 55m, 2h 8m

Cast: Harrison Ford (Indiana Jones), Karen Allen (Marion Ravenwood), John Rhys-Davies (Sallah), Denholm Elliot (Marcus Brody)

One of the most celebrated action-adventure sagas ever, the Indiana Jones series has defined the genre for generations. Starring Harrison Ford as the titular archaeologist, the movies invariably see Indy setting off on a daring, globe-trotting adventure to retrieve a mysterious, historically significant MacGuffin. On the way, Dr. Jones usually faces booby traps, dangerous animals, and, more often than not, Nazis. While some entries are more popular than others, Indiana Jones‘ impact on cinema culture as a whole cannot be overstated, making the franchise’s arrival on Disney+ a welcome addition to the roster.

Director: Jon Turteltaub | Runtime: 2h 11m

Cast: Nicolas Cage (Benjamin Gates), Sean Bean (Ian Howe), Diane Kruger (Dr. Abigail Chase)

A perfect example of how Indiana Jones helped shape the imagination of a generation of filmmakers, National Treasure is a rollicking adventure movie in its own right. The film sees Nicolas Cage’s Ben Gates on a relentless quest to unearth a mythical treasure buried in the heart of America. Facing skullduggery from his nemesis Ian Howe (Bean) and a series of fiendish traps, Ben is forced to take extreme measures to succeed in his goal – plotting a daring heist to steal the US Declaration of Independence. Part-Raiders of the Lost Ark, part-The Da Vinci Code, National Treasure is all entertainment from beginning to end.

Directors: Jimmy Chin, Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi | Runtime: 1h 54m

Cast: Rick Stanton, Saman Gunan, John Volanthen (Themselves)

Chronicling the astonishing true story of the 2018 rescue of a team of young football players from deep within a Thai cave, The Rescue ranks among the most tense and gripping documentaries ever produced. As the film lays out, the titular rescue effort was a monumental achievement, involving a coordinated global effort from experts in a variety of fields. Frequently terrifying and ultimately triumphant, The Rescue proves that real life can be just as nerve-wracking as any fictional thriller.

Directors: Jimmy Chin, Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi | Runtime: 1h 40m

Cast: Alex Honnold, Sanni McCandless, Tommy Caldwell (Themselves)

Rock climbing has a well-earned reputation as one of the most dangerous extreme sports, and few films demonstrate this more acutely than Free Solo. The movie follows death-defying climber Alex Honnold and his efforts to climb a notoriously tricky route without any ropes or safety measures for assistance. Vertiginous camera angles and the potential for fatal disaster make the movie relentlessly tense. However, as a study of ambition, determination, and individual bravery, Free Solo is hard to top.

Director: Questlove | Runtime: 1h 58m

Cast: Stevie Wonder, Gladys Knight, Mahalia Jackson (Themselves)

A celebration of some of America’s most significant musical artists, Summer of Soul is much more than a hagiographic greatest hits compilation. Focusing on the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival, the movie examines the eras political and cultural climate, as well as exploring why the event is less well known today than its contemporary, Woodstock. Universally praised by critics, and winner of the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, Summer of Soul is a brilliant blend of joyful music and cutting social commentary.

Director: Andy Tennant | Runtime: 2h

Cast: Drew Barrymore (Danielle de Barbarac), Angelica Huston (Baroness Rodmilla), Dougray Scott (Prince Henry), Jeanne Moreau (Grande Dame)

Ever After fits in well with the best Disney+ movies, as it is an innovative retelling of the classic Disney Cinderella movie. Drew Barrymore stars as Danielle, a woman treated terribly by her stepmother and sisters. However, one day, she runs into Prince Harry, and the two fall in love. The movie itself is set up as Cinderella’s “true story,” as told by the Grand Dame to the Brothers Grimm when she was not happy with their written version. The movie ended up with mostly positive reviews and was a box office success, with Barrymore receiving great reviews for her performance.

Director: Gil Junger | Runtime: 1h 38m

Cast: Heath Ledger (Patrick Verona), Julia Stiles (Kat Stratford)

Released in 1999, 10 Things I Hate About You is a teen coming-of-age comedy based on the William Shakespeare comedy The Taming of the Shrew. The movie stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt as a teen who wants to date a girl named Bianca. However, her dad won’t let her date until her antisocial older sister Kat (Julia Stiles) gets a boyfriend, knowing it won’t happen. Enter bad boy Patrick (Heath Ledger), who is hired to win her heart. The movie spawned an ABC series based on the story and remains a charming teen love story decades after its release.

Director: Steven Spielberg | Runtime: 2h 38m

Cast: Rachel Zegler (Maria), Ansel Elgort (Tony), Ariana DeBose (Anita)

Remaking a cinematic classic is a daunting prospect for any director – even for one as decorated as Steven Spielberg – yet West Side Story is a resounding triumph. The Best Picture nominee follows the Romeo and Juliet-like love story of a former member of a street gang who falls in love with the sister of one of his rivals. Fans will recognize the wonderful songs and the tragic love story, but Spielberg revitalizes the narrative with so much energy and beauty that even devoted fans of the original will be blown away. As such, West Side Story deservedly ranks as one of the best movies on Disney+.