Magical Moments: Top 20 Disney Movies That Enchant Audiences Worldwide

For nearly a century, Disney movies have enchanted audiences young and old. With magical lands, captivating characters and timeless stories, Disney films create an escape into wondrous imagination. Let's revisit 20 of the best Disney movies that continue to inspire joy and wonder worldwide.

Top 20 Disney Movies of All Time

Before going into details of each movie separately, we have compiled a list of all the top 20 Disney Movies in the following table. You can jump to any song details by clicking its name from the following table.

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1 - Zootopia (2016)

• Lead actors: Ginnifer Goodwin (Judy Hopps), Jason Bateman (Nick Wilde)
• Director: Byron Howard, Rich Moore
• Release date: March 4, 2016
• Runtime: 108 minutes
• IMDb Rating: 8.0
• Revenue: $1.024 billion
• Language: English

In the mammal metropolis of Zootopia, optimistic rabbit officer Judy Hopps teams up with con artist fox Nick Wilde to unravel a conspiracy threatening the city's peaceful community. With witty banter and creative world-building, Zootopia playfully tackles themes of bias through the buddy cop genre while remaining a laugh-out-loud comedy for kids. Directors Byron Howard and Rich Moore infuse every frame with visual gags and references. The thoughtful story promotes looking beyond stereotypes without losing Disney magic. Ginnifer Goodwin brings earnest appeal as Judy, while Jason Bateman's sly, sarcastic Wilde makes an unlikely hero. Zootopia entertains and empowers with an imaginative allegory for defeating prejudice through cooperation.

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2 - Beauty and the Beast (2017)

• Lead actors: Emma Watson (Belle), Dan Stevens (The Beast/Prince)
• Director: Bill Condon
• Release date: March 17, 2017
• Runtime: 129 minutes
• IMDb Rating: 7.1
• Revenue: $1.264 billion
• Language: English

This live-action remake of the animated classic enchants with dazzling visuals and faithful songs. Emma Watson shines as bookish heroine Belle who grows from captive to love interest of the cursed Beast (Dan Stevens). Timeless musical numbers like "Be Our Guest" gain new grandeur while retaining their Broadway splendor. Though CGI can feel distracting at times, the lavish French baroque sets still sweep viewers into the romance. Director Bill Condon honors the original's spirit while adding new depth to empower Belle as an inventor. The chemistry between Watson and Stevens brings heart to the fantastical love story. Little tweaks expand backstories and make the tale as old as time feel fresh again. The music, magic and message that true beauty lies within remain potently moving.

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3 - Tangled (2010)

• Lead actors: Mandy Moore (Rapunzel), Zachary Levi (Flynn Rider)
• Directors: Nathan Greno, Byron Howard
• Release date: November 24, 2010
• Runtime: 100 minutes
• IMDb Rating: 7.7
• Revenue: $592.9 million
• Language: English

Disney returned to magical musical fairy tales with this charming CGI-animated take on Rapunzel. When thief Flynn Rider hides in Rapunzel's secluded tower, they embark on a comedic adventure of twists, thrills and ultimately true love. Mandy Moore brings sincerity and verve to Rapunzel on her liberating journey. Zachary Levi's roguish Flynn makes an entertaining reluctant hero. Inspired by classic Disney princess films, Tangled blends humor, adventure and romance through colorfully animated set pieces. Instantly hummable songs like "I See the Light" capture the pair's blossoming affection. Tangled marked a successful and fresh revival of Walt-era style with a plucky modern heroine.

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4 - The Princess and the Frog (2009)

• Lead actors: Anika Noni Rose (Tiana), Bruno Campos (Prince Naveen)
• Directors: Ron Clements, John Musker
• Release date: December 11, 2009
• Runtime: 97 minutes
• IMDb Rating: 7.1
• Revenue: $267.4 million
• Language: English

Set in jazz age New Orleans, this musical adventure reimagines the classic frog prince tale with Disney's first African-American princess. Hard Working waitress Tiana dreams of opening a restaurant until a kiss turns her into a frog alongside carefree Prince Naveen. Lush hand-drawn animation immerses viewers in the lively Big Easy setting. The lovely soundtrack features soulful jazz and blues numbers that celebrate the cultural richness. Anika Noni Rose infuses Tiana with both pragmatism and passion. Though visions of an exploited New Orleans give pause today, the powerful message of following your dreams remains timeless. The Princess and the Frog returned Disney animation to its roots with a wonderfully crafted fairy tale.

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5 - Hercules (1997)

• Lead actors: Tate Donovan (Hercules), James Woods (Hades)
• Directors: Ron Clements, John Musker
• Release date: June 27, 1997
• Runtime: 93 minutes
• IMDb Rating: 7.3
• Revenue: $252.7 million
• Language: English

Disney puts a comedic spin on Greek mythology in this adventurous take on the demigod who must prove himself a true hero. Brought up on Earth, Hercules heads to the heavens to battle the devious Hades and return to the parents who abandoned him. The fast-paced humor plays loosely with legend for kid-friendly fun. James Woods steals scenes as a snarky Hades. Alan Menken's gospel-inspired music makes the story soar. Mythical creatures like Zeus and Pegasus get creative, modernized designs. Though not the deepest Disney film, Hercules brings the Greek pantheon to vibrant life with zany action in a timeless hero's journey. Tate Donovan's affable performance grounds the mighty Hercules with humanity and humility.

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6 - Sleeping Beauty (1959)

• Lead actors: Mary Costa (Princess Aurora), Eleanor Audley (Maleficent)
• Directors: Clyde Geronimi, Les Clark, Eric Larson, Wolfgang Reitherman
• Release date: January 29, 1959
• Runtime: 75 minutes
• IMDb Rating: 7.2
• Revenue: $51.6 million
• Language: English

Sleeping Beauty is acclaimed for its exquisite visuals in this adaptation of the classic fairy tale. When Princess Aurora is cursed by evil fairy Maleficent to prick her finger and sleep forever, three good fairies intervene to alter her fate. The film is a triumph of animators capturing a lavish medieval setting through hand-drawn artistry. Vivid color and meticulous detail bring the world to life, from Aurora's forest cottage to Maleficent's foreboding castle. The fairies have whimsical personalities while Maleficent's menacing presence looms. Paired with Tchaikovsky's sweeping "Sleeping Beauty Waltz" score, the art direction creates a lush stylized fantasy that immerses viewers in Aurora's journey. Disney's most visually ambitious film awakens a timeless legend.

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7 - Alice in Wonderland (1951)

• Lead voice actors: Kathryn Beaumont (Alice), Ed Wynn (Mad Hatter)
• Directors: Clyde Geronimi, Wilfred Jackson, Hamilton Luske
• Release date: July 26, 1951
• Runtime: 75 minutes
• IMDb Rating: 7.3
• Revenue: $2.4 million
• Language: English

This Disney animated adaptation sends Alice tumbling into Lewis Carroll's nonsensical Wonderland, where she encounters outlandish characters like the Mad Hatter and Cheshire Cat. Kathryn Beaumont voices young dreamer Alice with perfect childlike curiosity. Sterling Holloway's drawing Cheshire Cat and Ed Wynn's manic Mad Hatter capture the uniqueness of Carroll's creations. Though truncated from the dense novels, the film expands the croquet match with the Queen of Hearts into an unforgettable sequence. Abstract patterns and bright colors recreate the storybook's absurdist illustrations. Songs like "The Unbirthday Song'' add to the zany fun. Disney captures Wonderland's appeal through beautiful design and enduring characters that feel plucked straight from Carroll's imagination.

8 - Moana (2016)

• Lead actors: Auli'i Cravalho (Moana), Dwayne Johnson (Maui)
• Directors: Ron Clements, John Musker
• Release date: November 23, 2016
• Runtime: 107 minutes
• IMDb Rating: 7.6
• Revenue: $643.3 million
• Language: English

The first Polynesian Disney princess embarks on a sea voyage to save her island in this magical adventure celebrating Pacific cultures. Spirited teenager Moana teams up with demigod Maui to return the heart stolen from goddess Te Fiti, battling monsters and self-doubt along the way. Vibrant computer animation brings the tropical setting to life, as does Dwayne Johnson's boisterous Maui. But newcomer Auli'i Cravalho's Moana anchors the story with tenacity and touching vulnerability. Uplifting musical numbers emphasize celebrating identity and heritage. Moana pushes animation further in service of an exhilarating quest and nuanced heroine proud of her roots.

9 - Bambi (1942)

• Lead voice actors: Bobby Stewart (Bambi), Donnie Dunagan (Young Bambi)
• Directors: James Algar, Sam Armstrong, David Hand, Graham Heid, Paul Satterfield, Norman Wright
• Release date: August 13, 1942
• Runtime: 70 minutes
• IMDb Rating: 7.3
• Revenue: $267.5 million
• Language: English

Disney's fifth animated film tenderly follows Bambi's growth from newborn fawn through adulthood in a lush forest home. Evocative animation captures the animals living in harmony with nature through changing seasons. Bambi's wide eyes as a fawn convey his innocence, curiosity about the world and reliance on motherly care. Dramatic art direction creates a majestic yet perilous wilderness for him to traverse. The animation of weather effects like rain and snow were groundbreaking. While the devastating death of Bambi's mother shocked audiences, his journey celebrates the cycle of life. Deeply moving in its simplicity, Bambi created lifelike characters through its beautiful hand-drawn forest.

10 - Pinocchio (1940)

• Lead voice actors: Dickie Jones (Pinocchio), Cliff Edwards (Jiminy Cricket)
• Directors: Hamilton Luske, Ben Sharpsteen
• Release date: February 7, 1940
• Runtime: 88 minutes
• IMDb Rating: 7.5
• Revenue: $84.2 million
• Language: English

This charming classic follows puppet Pinocchio's quest to earn his way into becoming a real boy with Jiminy Cricket as his conscience. Walt Disney called Pinocchio his favorite film for its innovative animation and relatable story. The masterful visual effects brought Pinocchio to life along with unforgettable sidekicks like Figaro the cat. Cliff Edwards' upbeat Jiminy Cricket became Disney's iconic wise grasshopper. Themes of honesty, courage and selflessness resonate as Pinocchio experiences the dangers of temptation on his journey. Beautifully detailed artistry made Pinocchio a triumph during Disney's early Golden Age. Its catchy songs and heartwarming message about good morality continue delighting audiences.

11 - The Little Mermaid (1989)

• Lead actors: Jodi Benson (Ariel), Pat Carroll (Ursula)
• Directors: Ron Clements, John Musker
• Release date: November 17, 1989
• Runtime: 83 minutes
• IMDb Rating: 7.6
• Revenue: $211.3 million
• Language: English

This vibrant "Under the Sea" musical marked Disney's triumphant return to animated fairy tales. Ariel trades her voice to become human and be with Prince Eric, battling the scheming sea witch Ursula. The film's lush animation immerses viewers in the fantasy world. Jodi Benson brings warmth and spirit to Ariel's quest for independence. Broadway-style songs like "Part of Your World" became instant classics. After years struggling in the animation downturn, The Little Mermaid kicked off the Disney Renaissance. Its romance, humor and vision enchanted audiences. For subsequent princess films and Disney musicals, it re-cemented animation's emotional storytelling power.

12 - Frozen (2013)

• Lead actors: Kristen Bell (Anna), Idina Menzel (Elsa)
• Directors: Chris Buck, Jennifer Lee
• Release date: November 27, 2013
• Runtime: 102 minutes
• IMDb Rating: 7.4
• Revenue: $1.280 billion
• Language: English

Modern Disney magic blends with the Nordic setting and sisters' bond in Frozen's fresh take on Hans Christian Andersen. Isolated ice queen Elsa's abilities plunge the kingdom into eternal winter until Anna tries restoring their childhood bond. Frozen became Disney's biggest hit in decades thanks to its catchy musical numbers, relatable heroines and message about overcoming fear. Directors Chris Buck and Jennifer Lee put visual dazzle into the icy environments. But the heart is Anna and Elsa's nuanced sisterhood, voiced memorably by Kristen Bell and Idina Menzel. The unprecedented success of a female-led Disney film made Frozen an animated phenomenon.

13 - Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)

• Lead voice actors: Adriana Caselotti (Snow White), Lucille La Verne (Queen Grimhilde)
• Directors: David Hand, William Cottrell, Wilfred Jackson, Larry Morey, Perce Pearce, Ben Sharpsteen
• Release date: December 21, 1937
• Runtime: 83 minutes
• IMDb Rating: 7.6
• Revenue: $418 million
• Language: English

Disney's first animated feature-length film revolutionized the industry.  The Grimm fairy tale is lovingly brought to life through pioneering hand-drawn animation and lush watercolor backgrounds. Snow White's kind resilience in the face of the Queen's envy remains moving; her serene forest escape from peril showcases ingenious artistry. The Seven Dwarfs' playful personalized designs invented the Disney sidekick mold. Songs like "Whistle While You Work" and "Heigh-Ho" became instant hummable classics. At the time, no one had seen animation achieve such fluid storytelling and lifelike characters. Walt Disney proved cartoons could enthrall audiences young and old for decades to come.

14 - The Lion King (1994)

• Lead voice actors: Matthew Broderick (Adult Simba), Jeremy Irons (Scar), James Earl Jones (Mufasa)
• Directors: Roger Allers, Rob Minkoff
• Release date: June 24, 1994
• Runtime: 88 minutes
• IMDb Rating: 8.5
• Revenue: $968.5 million
• Language: English

The Lion King reigns as a masterpiece of Disney animation with its Shakespearean coming-of-age tale set within a vivid African landscape. After jealous uncle Scar usurps the kingdom, young lion prince Simba returns from exile to reclaim his destiny as ruler. Breathtaking visuals bring the animals photorealistically to life while music by Elton John and Hans Zimmer swells the emotion. Matthew Broderick's earnest adult Simba and James Earl Jones' noble Mufasa lead a standout voice cast. Whimsical characters like meerkat Timon and warthog Pumbaa balance the drama. The classic story of overcoming doubt to take your place in the "Circle of Life" resonates with audiences of all ages.

15 - Enchanted (2007)

• Lead actors: Amy Adams (Giselle), Patrick Dempsey (Robert)
• Director: Kevin Lima
• Release date: November 21, 2007
• Runtime: 107 minutes
• IMDb Rating: 7.0
• Revenue: $340.5 million
• Language: English

This satirical musical sends stereotypical Disney princess Giselle tumbling from her animated fantasyland into gritty live-action New York City. Fish-out-of-water comedy ensues as she falls for a cynical divorce lawyer (Patrick Dempsey) while her cartoon prince charming pursues her. Amy Adams delights as the perpetually cheery Giselle, nailing both musical numbers and culture clash laughs. The spot-on Disney references and imaginative 2D/3D combination highlight the studio's spirit and tropes through an affectionate meta lens. The romance carries genuine heart alongside the parody. Enchanted served as both a loving homage to Disney fairy tales and a progressive step forward for modern heroines carving their independent paths.

16 - Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003)

• Lead actors: Johnny Depp (Jack Sparrow), Orlando Bloom (Will Turner), Keira Knightley (Elizabeth Swann)
• Director: Gore Verbinski
• Release date: July 9, 2003
• Runtime: 143 minutes
• IMDb Rating: 8.0
• Revenue: $654.3 million
• Language: English

Charismatic pirate Jack Sparrow teams up with blacksmith Will Turner to rescue Elizabeth Swann from cursed pirates in this swashbuckling adventure that launched a blockbuster franchise. Johnny Depp's eccentric performance as Sparrow made him an instant icon with his witty one-liners and drunken swagger. Non-stop action unfolds across tropical seas, misty caves and colonial Caribbean towns rendered in lavish detail. Director Gore Verbinski balances comedic hijinks with ominous supernatural lore and thrilling sword fights. Keira Knightley and Orlando Bloom have palpable chemistry as the young romantic leads. The Curse of the Black Pearl reignited the pirate genre with Hollywood bravado, proving Captain Jack Sparrow on par with cinematic icons like Indiana Jones in the action-adventure pantheon.

17 - Cinderella (1950)

• Lead voice actors: Ilene Woods (Cinderella), Eleanor Audley (Lady Tremaine)
• Directors: Clyde Geronimi, Wilfred Jackson, Hamilton Luske
• Release date: March 4, 1950
• Runtime: 74 minutes
• IMDb Rating: 7.3
• Revenue: $85 million
• Language: English

This cherished fairy tale enchanted postwar audiences with its magical rags-to-riches story. When Cinderella's cruel stepmother forbids her from attending the royal ball, her fairy godmother grants her wish to go using a little Disney magic. Ilene Woods imbues Cinderella with kindness and optimism amidst hardship. Vivid colors and lavish music transport viewers to the classic princess storybook. The iconic "Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo" scene where Cinderella is transformed remains powerful Disney sorcery. Though a simple fable, it continues inspiring people to have hope. Cinderella proved classics endure thanks to vivid characters and universal messages about holding onto dreams.

18 - Atlantis: The Lost Empire (2001)

• Lead actors: Michael J. Fox (Milo), James Garner (Rourke)
• Directors: Gary Trousdale, Kirk Wise
• Release date: June 15, 2001
• Runtime: 95 minutes
• IMDb Rating: 6.9
• Revenue: $186.1 million
• Language: English

Intrepid explorer Milo searches for the fabled city of Atlantis and discovers an ancient civilization thriving beneath the sea. Atlantis marked Disney boldly taking on science fiction/adventure. Michael J. Fox voices hapless yet endearing linguist Milo. Vibrant steampunk artwork deviates from typical Disney style to create an otherworldly underground metropolis. The fast-paced action offers jeopardy beyond typical kids' fare. Though it underperformed at the time, Atlantis won fans for its visionary look and Jules Verne-esque sense of exploration. It expanded Disney animation into imaginative new territory with a cinematic story beyond fairy tales.

19 - Cinderella (2015)

• Lead actors: Lily James (Cinderella), Cate Blanchett (Lady Tremaine)
• Director: Kenneth Branagh
• Release date: March 13, 2015
• Runtime: 105 minutes
• IMDb Rating: 6.9
• Revenue: $543.5 million
• Language: English

Disney's live-action reimagining retells the classic fairy tale with lavish detail. Lily James captures Cinderella's courage and compassion when treated cruelly by her stepmother Lady Tremaine, played with icy perfection by Cate Blanchett. Vibrant costumes and dazzling production design immerse viewers in the period setting. While very faithful to the animated version, Branagh's direction smartly deepens character connections. Themes about staying kind in the face of evil resonate profoundly. Though familiar, the story is newly inspired with thoughtful embellishments breathing humanity into archetypes. The sumptuous sets and James' heartfelt performance make this Cinderella story magical.

20 - Aladdin (1992)

• Lead actors: Scott Weinger (Aladdin), Robin Williams (Genie)
• Directors: Ron Clements, John Musker
• Release date: November 25, 1992
• Runtime: 90 minutes
• IMDb Rating: 8.0
• Revenue: $504.1 million
• Language: English

Aladdin soars thanks to the virtuoso voice performance of Robin Williams as the fast-talking, shape-shifting Genie. When street urchin Aladdin discovers Genie's lamp and wishes to become a prince to court Princess Jasmine, Genie's magic makes his dreams come true with chaotic hilarity. The film is beautifully animated, transporting viewers from the dusty streets of Agrabah to a mystical, massive Cave of Wonders. The iconic "A Whole New World" sequence on their magic carpet ride cemented Disney ballads. But Williams' over-the-top improv steals the film, injecting it with his signature off-the-cuff wit. Aladdin shows Disney at its most fun and magical.

DPM Top Picks

If we have to choose just three favorites, here are our top Disney movies of all time:

1. The Lion King - This poignant coming-of-age tale never fails to captivate with its breathtaking animation and resonant messages about one's destiny.
2. Beauty and the Beast - An iconic romance fable with lush visuals and iconic musical numbers that beautifully capture the transformative power of love.
3. Aladdin - A "Whole New World" of magic, wish fulfillment and joy thanks to Robin Williams' legendary Genie and a street urchin's journey of self-discovery.

Final Verdict

For nearly 100 years, Disney movies have transported viewers to worlds of limitless fantasy, inspiring generations with captivating stories, colorful characters and technical innovation. These 20 cherished classics represent the finest of Disney animation and live-action, from Snow White in 1937 to recent phenomena like Frozen. Revisiting them allows us to experience again that childhood awe, deep human truths and belief that everything is possible with a little magic – the essence of Disney's eternal appeal.

FAQs

Q: What was the first full-length animated Disney movie?

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)

Q: What Disney movie started the Disney Renaissance?

The Little Mermaid (1989)

Q: What was the first Disney movie to use stereo sound?

Fantasia (1940)

Q: What was the highest grossing animated Disney movie?

Frozen (2013) at $1.28 billion

Q: What Disney movie has won the most Academy Awards?

Mary Poppins (1964) won 5 Oscars.

Q: When did Disney start making live-action movies?

Disney began making live-action films in the 1950s starting with Treasure Island (1950).

Q: What was the first PG-rated Disney animated movie?

The Black Cauldron (1985)