Disney has produced some of the most beloved and iconic animated films of all time, but there are also many hidden gems that haven’t gotten the recognition they deserve. In this post, we’ll explore 17 of the most underrated Disney movies ever made, that are worth discovering or revisiting.
“The Great Mouse Detective” (1986)
Falling into the shadows of more celebrated Disney releases, The Great Mouse Detective is a delightful retelling of the classic Sherlock Holmes story from a mouse’s perspective. The film brings together humor, suspense, and intriguing characters, including the hero Basil of Baker Street, who’s every bit as sharp and charismatic as his human counterpart. With voice performances by Vincent Price, the film offers an engaging mystery that warrants more appreciation.
“Treasure Planet” (2002)
Treasure Planet blends classic literature with innovative animation to create a distinctive Disney experience. This sci-fi interpretation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s “Treasure Island” tells the story of Jim Hawkins, a rebellious teen who embarks on a space adventure to uncover the legendary Treasure Planet. With its steampunk aesthetic, dynamic characters, and a story about self-discovery and redemption, it’s a hidden gem that fans of Disney and science fiction will appreciate.
“The Emperor’s New Groove” (2000)
Despite its cult following, The Emperor’s New Groove doesn’t quite get the wide acclaim it deserves. The film stands out for its irreverent humor, dynamic character interactions, and its departure from the usual Disney formula. The plot follows the narcissistic Emperor Kuzco who, turned into a llama by his ex-advisor, must rely on a humble peasant to regain his throne. Its combination of humor, memorable quotes, and a great voice cast makes it an underrated favorite.
“Meet the Robinsons” (2007)
Meet the Robinsons is an underappreciated Disney film that deals with themes of family, time-travel, and self-worth. The film’s protagonist, Lewis, is a brilliant young inventor who encounters a mysterious boy from the future. The film’s complex narrative, emotional depth, and unexpected twists make it a must-watch for Disney fans. Its message to “keep moving forward” is poignant and encourages viewers to learn from their past while always looking ahead.
“Oliver & Company” (1988)
Oliver & Company is Disney’s charming take on Charles Dickens’ “Oliver Twist,” replacing human characters with anthropomorphic animals in modern-day New York. The story of Oliver, an orphaned kitten, and his unlikely friendship with a street-smart dog named Dodger, often gets overlooked. Its compelling narrative, enhanced by catchy Billy Joel tunes and an exploration of themes like friendship and loyalty, makes it an underrated Disney classic.
“The Hunchback of Notre Dame” (1996)
Despite dealing with some of the darkest themes in the Disney canon, The Hunchback of Notre Dame is an emotional narrative about acceptance and inner strength. The story of Quasimodo, a man marginalized for his appearance, is poignant and evokes powerful emotions. With its stunning animation, spectacular musical score, and in-depth character development, this film deserves more attention for its artistry and storytelling.
“Brother Bear” (2003)
Brother Bear presents an enchanting tale of transformation and brotherhood that often goes unnoticed in the Disney filmography. When a young Inuit hunter, Kenai, is turned into a bear as a form of punishment, he gains a new perspective on life and forms an unlikely friendship with a bear cub, Koda. With beautiful animation reflecting the film’s natural settings, touching narrative, and Phil Collins’ captivating soundtrack, it’s an underappreciated Disney film worth revisiting.
“Atlantis: The Lost Empire” (2001)
A Disney movie like no other, Atlantis: The Lost Empire dives deep into science fiction and adventure. This film follows Milo Thatch, a linguist and cartographer, who dreams of completing his grandfather’s quest to find the lost city of Atlantis. Its intricate storyline, engaging characters, and a blend of traditional and computer-generated animation make it a unique, yet underrecognized, Disney film.
“Bolt” (2008)
Bolt, a movie about a Hollywood dog who believes he possesses superpowers, is often overshadowed by other Disney films. Beyond its fun and engaging premise, the film explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and self-discovery. Bolstered by strong voice performances from John Travolta and Miley Cyrus, this film’s touching storyline and well-timed humor make it an underappreciated Disney movie.
“The Rescuers Down Under” (1990)
Disney’s first animated sequel, The Rescuers Down Under, continues the adventures of the charming mouse duo, Bianca and Bernard, in the Australian Outback. Despite its beautiful animation, exciting storyline, and memorable characters (including the entertaining albatross, Wilbur), this sequel often gets overlooked. Its depiction of the Australian wilderness and exploration of themes such as friendship and courage make it a worthy follow-up to the original film.
“The Sword in the Stone” (1963)
Despite being the precursor to the King Arthur legend, The Sword in the Stone doesn’t get the recognition it deserves. This film, centering around a young, unassuming Arthur (or “Wart”), presents an exciting narrative filled with magic, humor, and valuable life lessons. With memorable characters like the wise Merlin and his grumpy owl Archimedes, it offers both entertainment and heart, making it an underrated Disney classic.
“Robin Hood” (1973)
Disney’s animal-centric take on the Robin Hood tale is charming and engaging but often goes unnoticed. The film offers a fun and memorable interpretation of the legendary hero as a lovable fox, stealing from the rich to give to the poor. With witty characters, a heartwarming love story, and catchy songs, this film’s unique charm and whimsy make it an underappreciated gem.
“Hercules” (1997)
Despite its delightful blend of Greek mythology and Disney magic, Hercules often falls into the shadows of other Disney classics. This modernized rendition of the Herculean myth, complete with snappy songs and a quirky sense of humor, offers a unique twist on the Greek hero’s tale. Its lively characters, including the charismatic hero, the sassy Megara, and the hilarious Hades, contribute to its distinct charm, making it an underrated Disney film.
“A Goofy Movie” (1995)
Despite its charming narrative and memorable music, A Goofy Movie often goes unnoticed. The film explores the dynamic and often tumultuous relationship between Goofy and his teenage son, Max, making for a heartwarming and relatable viewing experience. With its catchy tunes, comedic moments, and a touching exploration of father-son relationships, it is a hidden gem in the Disney lineup.
“Pocahontas II: Journey to a New World” (1998)
While the original film gets more acclaim, Pocahontas II: Journey to a New World offers an intriguing continuation of Pocahontas’s story. The film explores her journey to England, her encounters with a foreign culture, and the challenges she faces in preserving peace between her people and the English. Though not historically accurate, it presents an engaging narrative with complex themes, making it an underrated addition to Disney’s filmography.
“Home on the Range” (2004)
Home on the Range, a film that centers around a trio of dairy cows saving their farm from a greedy outlaw, may not be the first movie to come to mind when thinking of Disney classics, but it’s a fun, light-hearted western romp. With its colorful animation, humorous dialogue, and catchy tunes, it’s an often overlooked but charming Disney film.