Every kid who grew up in the late ’90s and 2000s knows the rush of waiting all week for the school week to end so you can watch the premiere of the new Disney Channel Original Movie (aka DCOM for the cool kids). The equivalent of water-cooler talk for adults, DCOMs were THE topic to discuss Mondays on the playground and then roleplay for months on end.
With over 100 DCOMs released since 1997, there were quite a few that I grew up watching on repeat, but there were also many I’d never seen before. During a time in the world where we were social distancing, I thought there couldn’t have been a better time to binge watch every DCOM film available on Disney+. It took a few months, starting with “You Lucky Dog” and ending with “Zombies 2”, but the mission is finally complete.
And while each DCOM offers something completely unique, there are 35 that stand out as the best of the best. Of course, being a Millenial-Gen Z cusper means that a good chunk of this list consists of mid-2000s DCOM fanfare, but rest assured, every DCOM was given a fair shake!
35-31.
35. Stuck in the Suburbs
Two girls who have more in common than they let on, end up becoming the best of friends after accidentally ending up with teen heartthrob Jordan Cahill’s phone. It’s a fun, campy adventure film that never once takes itself too seriously, which is what makes it so enjoyable.
34. The Proud Family Movie
If you’re expecting a classic storyline similar to those in “The Proud Family” show, this movie isn’t for you. In what has to be one of the wackiest concepts known to mankind, the Prouds end up on an island with an evil doctor looking to create a peanut army. It’s truly something you have to watch to believe.
33. Princess Protection Program
The star power of Demi Lovato and Selena Gomez were united to bring us a Disney Princess film we never knew we needed. A princess must learn how to be a normal girl from a cynical girl who works at a bait shop in order to protect her kingdom from an evil dictator. As per DCOM tradition, hijinks ensue and the kingdom is saved.
32. Miracle on Lane 2
This Franke Muniz flick tells the true story of Justin Yoder, a young boy born with spina bifida and hydrocephalus who dreams to win a trophy like his older brother. With the help of his misunderstood neighbour, Justin becomes a soapbox racing champion. The perfect combination of sappy and zany – “Miracle on Lane 2” definitely brings the feels.
31. Zenon: Girl of the 21st Century
Cetus-Lupeedus this DCOM classic is out of this world! The mischievous Zenon Kar is grounded after multiple antics on her family’s space station and is banished to live with her aunt on planet Earth. Zenon has gone on to define a generation of DCOMs for ’90s kids and it’s hard not to smile watching this campy teen space opera.
30-26.
30. Wizards of Waverly Place: The Movie
The show that shot Selena Gomez into superstardom was given its own DCOM in 2009, but no Wizards fan knew that would be entangled in such an emotional family journey. When Alex’s anger gets the better of her, she wishes her parents never met and the wish comes true. It’s up to her and her brothers to get the Russo family back together in a race against time!
29. Pixel Perfect
The idea of the “perfect girl” and not knowing what’s in front of you is the theme of this Disney Channel rom-com. Teen boy Roscoe uses his dad’s holographic tech to help his best friend Sam’s band by creating them a lead singer, Loretta. Sure, it’s kind of campy but the songs from the Zetta Bytes are truly underrated bops.
28. Halloweentown
The first highly successful DCOM has become an instant classic to this day and a Halloween favourite for many. Starring the iconic Debbie Reynolds as kooky witch and grandma, Aggie Cromwell, “Halloweentown” brings together a wacky group of ghouls, goblins and creatures on a family’s journey to save a place so magical, you have to see it to believe it!
27. Tiger Cruise
The most emotional DCOM of all-time, “Tiger Cruise” intertwines fictional events with the real-life events of 9/11. Seeing this real world tragedy from the perspective of young kids on-board a navy boat is entirely unique and incredibly impactful. Hayden Panettiere truly delivers in this one.
26. Twitches
“Sister, Sister” but with magic! Twins separated at birth to protect them and the kingdom of Coventry from the Darkness, are reunited 21 years later, discover their magical powers and must work together to save their kingdom. It’s the perfect twin sister romp for anytime of the year, but especially the Halloween season.
25-21.
25. Wendy Wu: Homecoming Warrior
A popular, shallow girl is forced to learn more about her Chinese culture after a monk reveals she is the reincarnation of a mighty female warrior destined to defeat Yan-Lo, an evil ancient spirit. One of the only DCOMs with an Asian-American lead, Wendy Wu was the epitome of teenage excellence: a Homecoming Queen that can kick some serious butt.
24. Minutemen
Time travelling movies are always a hit or miss, but Minutemen really leans in to the comical side of the genre. Despite elements like black holes and time machines playing a major role in the film, it’s the growing friendship between the three Minutemen that makes this sci-fi DCOM so quaint.
23. Going to the Mat
A blind musician from New York who is kind of a jerk to everyone in his new school is forced to try out for the wrestling team in order to fit in. It’s a heartwarming story about perseverance and giving everyone a fair chance. And if you only have time for one of (the many) DCOM sports movies, this is the one to choose.
22. Tru Confessions
People do not talk about Shia LaBeouf’s acting skills enough! This was the young actor’s first opportunity to show the world he knows how to tug at people’s heartstrings, LaBeouf plays a twin brother who has an unidentified learning disability that makes him act like a young child. It’s an emotional family drama that is not talked about nearly enough.
21. The Even Stevens Movie
Another Shia LaBeouf favourite that highlights his comedic skills this time around. Personally, I’ve only ever watched a handful of “Even Stevens” episodes, but the movie has always stood out since childhood as comedy gold. The Stevens family are on a free vacation, but unbeknownst to them, it’s actually a secret reality prank show. Hijinks aplenty in this gem.
20-16.
20. The Color of Friendship
A young white South African girl who is currently living under the apartheid rule signs up for the cultural exchange program and is placed with an African-American family. The first DCOM to tackle a serious issue, this film is all about learning how to celebrate our differences instead of being afraid of them.
19. Smart House
This 1999 flick basically warned us about the dangers of smart technology, but yet here we all are with our Alexas. Humans never learn. Known for being ahead of its time, “Smart House” is hands-down the best DCOM to come out of the 90s and it’s all because the concept is so timeless.
18. Camp Rock 2
By the time this sequel rolled around, Demi Lovato and the Jonas Brothers were already mega stars. Despite the starpower, it just doesn’t have the same heart and amazing soundtrack as its predecessor. However, it’s still such a fun camp film and the chemistry between Mitchie and Shane is next level!
17. Jump In!
Boxing, Double Dutch, romance, two excellent them songs – “Jump In!” has something for everyone, including the incredible talents of Corbin Bleu and Keke Palmer. All the athletics though are simply a backdrop for a story about being yourself and doing what you love no matter what anyone including your parents say. A message every pre-teen can get behind.
16. Let It Shine
This movie is so good because it says so much about the perception we all have of those involved in the rap and hip hop genre. Cyrus is a talented musical choir director that must hide his passion for rap due to his father’s disapproval. His lack of confidence in his talent, leads to his best friend stealing his spotlight and the girl of his dreams. With a soundtrack so fire, this is a movie everyone can appreciate.
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15. Descendants
The film that kick-started one of Disney Channel’s greatest franchises does a phenomenal job of introducing us to the fairytale world of Auradon, who for the first time welcomes four villain kids into their ranks in an attempt to reform them. It’s a fantastic movie and unlike most franchises, “Descendants” just gets better with every sequel.
14. Cadet Kelly
Two Disney Channel legends combined forces for this DCOM favourite. Free spirited Kelly is inserted into the tough, political world of military school and must work harder than ever to show that she belongs. Hilary Duff is as charming as ever, making “Cadet Kelly” the military hero (in-training) we all deserve.
13. The Cheetah Girls
Growl Power! When a film is produced by Whitney Houston – you know it’s going to have songs for the ages. “The Cheetah Girls” is not only musically genius but also exemplifies the power of female friendship. Raven Symone leads a cast of extremely talented girls and unlike its sequels, is much more grounded in reality.
12. Teen Beach 2
The sequel to one of my favourite DCOMs, it was impossible for “Teen Beach 2” to live up to the original. However, what it lacks in originality, it makes up for in character growth. Tanner played by Garrett Clayton becomes the most delightful (fictional) human being on the planet as he and Lela try to navigate the modern world. It is for this reason alone “Teen Beach 2” deserves this high of a spot on the list.
11. Kim Possible: So the Drama
While this was supposed to be the series finale of “Kim Possible”, it ended up just being the turning point in the next chapter of the show. In Dr. Drakken and Shego’s latest attempt to take over the world and destroy Kim, they create a fake boyfriend that insights jealousy in Ron. Let’s just say, this all leads to a major game changer in Kim and Ron’s relationship, that still makes my heart flutter to this day!
10. Halloweentown II: Kalabar’s Revenge
Without a doubt, “Halloweentown II: Kalabar’s Revenge” is the best in the franchise, and no ghost, ghoul or goblin can convince me otherwise. What makes this sequel such a fantastic film is that the world of Halloweentown and the Cromwell family is well established, so instead of introducing us to a new world, this film gives us a story about betrayal, sacrifice and becoming your own teacher. Marnie is tested like never before in this sequel when it’s revealed the boy she likes is Kal, the evil villain out for revenge on the Cromwells. Not only is it the perfect film for Halloween, it’s just such a wonderful movie in general.
9. Zombies
One of Disney Channel’s newest films has also quickly become a fan favourite and it’s not hard to see why with its wacky concept and incredibly charming leads. “Zombies” never takes itself too seriously, but yet still manages to tell a familiar story about the importance of embracing differences instead of forcing people (or zombies) to conform. The chemistry between Zed (played by future star Milo Manheim) and Addison makes them a star-crossed couple that everyone can get behind. It’s a musical love story with songs so catchy it’s hard not to sing “BAM” for hours on end.
8. Descendants 2
What’s her name? What’s her name? UMA! The introduction to arguably one of the best DCOM villains of all-time is bestowed on us in “Descendants 2” and for that reason alone, this sequel is one of the best! What makes “Descendants 2” better than the original is that the world of Auradon and the VKs is now established, and we’re now getting to see how Mal, Carlos, Evie and Jay are adjusting to this new life of being “good”. Mal’s struggle to acclimate to being the girlfriend of the King leads to a lot of trouble for everyone, a sword fight musical number and climax that recreates a beloved scene from, “The Little Mermaid”. It’s a Disney fairytale fever dream!
7. Lemonade Mouth
Have you ever imagined what the kids from “The Breakfast Club” could accomplish if they started a band? That’s basically the premise of “Lemonade Mouth”, without the creepy relationships and ’80s stereotyping. Five teens from different walks of life go to a school where athletics are of the utmost importance. They end up in detention for different reasons, and after messing around with some instruments in the band room, the crew realizes that they have some serious musical chemistry. They use their music to fight the many injustices at their school, and with a soundtrack so fire, you’ll instantly make your mantra, “Be Heard. Be Strong. Be Proud”.
6. Camp Rock
Okay, before jumping to the defense of this movies high spot on this list, I’ll admit Joe Jonas teaching a hip hop class is super cringy. Yet, other than “High School Musical” there was no DCOM that defined my childhood more and I think every pre-teen can relate to Mitchie’s journey on her camp journey. Making up stories just to fit in with the popular crowd obviously backfires, but it does teach Mitchie the invaluable lesson of believing in herself and her own talent. My adolescent self only realized how real true love is once Mitchie and Shane joined forces for the ANTHEM that is “This Is Me.” It’s a song I still belt out to this day and I refuse to stop loving this movie.
5. Descendants 3
The final installment in the “Descendants” trilogy really hit it out of the ballpark. Everything that we loved about the first two films remained, but what makes this one a 10/10 is its willingness to admit that Auradon isn’t as perfect as the “good guys” like to believe. The land’s belief in good vs. evil is completely turned on its head when Princess Audrey lets jealousy consume her and puts a curse on all of Auradon. The VKs must work with arch-nemesis Uma and Mal’s estranged father Hades to stop Audrey from destroying the kingdom. The underlying issue of second chances and deciding who deserves them is topped off with some of the best songs and dance numbers the franchise has to offer. The most magical DCOM of all-time!
4. The Cheetah Girls 2
Amigas Cheetahs is back and better than ever, but this time in the stunning Barcelona! In an attempt to save Chanel from going on a trip to Spain solo, Galleria arranges for the Cheetah Girls to compete at the Barcelona Music Festival. In their quest to become international superstars, the girls struggle to stay focused, distracted by fashion, new friends and the boys Spain has to offer. There are many elements that make this sequel the best but the main reason is the character growth. No longer are these girls petty teens, they are young women who must learn to put their friendship and love of music above everything else. Also there isn’t a song in this movie that isn’t a straight up jam. #Flawless
3. High School Musical 2
Out of all the DCOMs ever released, “High School Musical 2” most definitely had the highest expectations of any. While it was pretty much impossible for it to meet the original, credit where credit is due, this sequel still brought it! Sure, this one isn’t actually set in East High, but our favourite Wildcats are still altogether at Sharpay and Ryan’s family’s country club. And with so many bops that refuse to stop, “High School Musical 2” arguably has even more memorable hits than the original. Zac Efron’s moves in “Bet On It” are iconic and I will except no arguments that say otherwise. Gabriella and Troy’s chemistry is still off the charts, Sharpay is even more of a diva than anyone thought possible and Ryan finally gets his redemption arc. It’s just so fun from start to finish.
2. Teen Beach Movie
“Teen Beach Movie” is the work of a musical genius. In an homage to the classic musicals “West Side Story” and “Grease”, this film transports modern-day teens who love to surf to the 1960s film, “Wet Side Story”. This leads to Mack and Brady accidentally messing up the meet cute between the two leads, Tanner and Lela. In order for them to get back home, they must get the movie back on track, but along the way Mack teaches Lela how to be more independent and Brady teaches Tanner how to be a little less self-absorbed. “Teen Beach Movie” is delightfully quirky and perfectly encapsulates the over-the-top ridiculousness that is old school musicals, but with music you can’t not dance to. It’s simply a DCOM gem.
1. High School Musical
Come on, were you really expecting any other movie to top this list? “High School Musical” will forever be the GOAT. As a child I could not memorize a math formula to save my life, but I could recite this Oscar worthy DCOM from start to finish. The word iconic is used rather loosely these days, but there’s no other word that best describes each and every number this film has to offer. Be who you are and do what you love – that’s what “High School Musical” has taught every Disney Channel kid and we do not thank Kenny Ortega enough for showing us all there’s not a star in heaven that we can’t reach and that we’re all in this together.
What’s your favourite DCOM? Let us know in the comments below or on one of our social media channels and be sure to follow Frozen Mouse Fever for all your Disney needs.
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