Relive the best Disney movies of the 90s.
There is no wrong time to remember good things, right?
In a time where the studio churned out hit after hit of animated classics, we truly entered the golden era of Disney films in the ’90s with some of the best-animated films hitting our screens that remain iconic to this day. So iconic in fact, that majority of them have earned their own remake decades later.
We have gathered the 10 best Disney movies of the 90s, and we already can’t wait to rewatch these classics.
1. The Lion King
“Hakuna Matata! What a wonderful phrase
Hakuna Matata! Ain’t no passing craze
It means no worries for the rest of your days
It’s our problem-free philosophy
Hakuna Matata!”
There’s no possible way to read the lines above without enthusiastically singing one of the many iconic songs from this Disney classic.
The Lion King is easily considered one of the best Disney movies of all time not just from the ’90s and some might say it is one of the best animated movies of all time. This classic is also an Academy Award winner for Best Original Song- every Disney fan knows by heart the lyrics for “Can you feel the love tonight”, written by Tim Rice and composed by Elton John.
The emotionally charged plot and impeccable soundtrack build a timeless movie that captivates generations of viewers. So it comes as no surprise that this one has the top position on our list.
IMDb: 8.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 88% Audience Score
2. Toy Story
“You just remember what your old pal said
Boy, you’ve got a friend in me”
There’s a big chance you’ve never looked at your toys the same way after watching this movie.
The sensible plot that is carried by Woody, Buzz and their friends keeps every heart warm and filled with the best nostalgic mood.
Besides the timeless narrative, Toy Story most certainly deserves a place on this list considering the innovative and reinvigorated animation production of the movie.
IMDb: 8.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 92% Audience Score
3. The Nightmare Before Christmas
Surprisingly not directed by Tim Burton, this masterpiece was directed by Henry Selick although Burton was involved in the writing of the movie.
A sophisticated and amazing tale for both adults and teens alike, there are few who would deny that the story of Jack Skellington doesn’t go down as one of our fave animated films. It’s intriguing, completely unique and throws in a few important life lessons on the way.
The right amount of spookiness and cuteness combined create a unique stop-motion piece that couldn’t be left out of this list.
IMDb: 8/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 91% Audience Score
4. Toy Story 2
The numbers don’t lie, and the critics can’t help but love Toy Story. The second movie was also one of the best Disney films of the 90s, proving that sequels can be just as good.
We surely can’t get enough of our favorite toys, including the adorable new ones that are introduced in this movie.
After this film two more Toy Story movies were created, still being dearly appreciated by the audience.
IMDb: 7.9/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 87% Audience Score
5. Mulan
“ The Emperor: A single grain of rice can tip the scale. One man may be the difference between victory and defeat.”
A remarkably strong female lead character in an animated movie is just one of the many ways in which Mulan was a groundbreaking Disney production.
Family duty and honor are also themes that play a central part in this incredible animation, all delicately put together with sophisticated songs and charming characters.
IMDb: 7.6/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 85% Audience Score
6. Aladdin
“A whole new world
A dazzling place I never knew
But when I’m way up here
It’s crystal clear
That now I’m in a whole new world with you”
So many good songs that it’s almost impossible to choose just one to be quoted. It goes without saying that an amazing collection of songs resulted in a recognizable success. A Whole New World won the Academy Awards for Best Original Song.
Aladdin presented the audience with a colorful tale, mixing great songs with scene-stealing characters, such as the unforgettable genie voiced by Robbie Williams.
IMDb: 7.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 92% Audience Score
7. Tarzan
This production has a special place in our hearts, especially with heart-touching songs by Phil Collins, such as “You’ll Be In My Heart”. This is another Best Original song piece that won an Academy Award.
It might be a well-known story, but the engaging action scenes blended with the beautiful production of the characters and the natural environment lead to an exceptional movie.
IMDb: 7.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 75% Audience Score
8. Beauty and the Beast
“Tale as old as time
True as it can be
Barely even friends
Then somebody bends
Unexpectedly”
This lovely tune won the academy awards for Best Original Song and, since then, has never left our memories.
All the romance, clever humor and drama that we need can be found within this film. The contrast created between the characters, from the intellectual and strong-willed Bella to the apparent cold and rough Beast, provide remarkable and emotional scenes that contribute to the immense success and legacy of this movie.
IMDb: 7.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 92% Audience Score
9. A Bug’s Life
A change of perspective on the size of things made us all fall in love with these tiny ants and their adventures.
Fun and emotional, A Bug’s Life is a movie that utters an optimistic point of view of community and kindness.
A smashing success that is highly entertaining for all ages.
IMDb: 7.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 73% Audience Score
10. The Hunchback of Notre Dame
Last but not least, this captivating production inspired by Victor Hugo’s work fascinates viewers to this day.
The movie carries not only inspiring songs but also well-built characters and different layers that reflect highly relevant issues, such as tolerance and justice. Definitely a classic that honorably closes our list.
IMDb: 7/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 70% Audience Score
Feeling nostalgic? You can rewatch these movies now on Disney+
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