Since the release of their first animated feature film in 1937, Walt Disney Animation Studios has become the pinnacle of animated films. With each successful film like “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” and “Lilo & Stitch”, came box office bombs like “The Black Cauldron” and “Treasure Planet.” No Disney era is infallible, but if there is one that comes pretty darn close, it’s Disney’s Revival Era, also known as the present era of Disney filmmaking.
After a decade of highs and lows that saw some of the companies biggest financial and critical failures, the Walt Disney company would return to its roots both in terms of traditional animation and fairytale storytelling. With John Lasseter now at the helm of Disney’s Animation Creative Team, and the the company’s purchase of Pixar, all the pieces had fallen into place for Disney to see the success it once held again. The Revival Era reached new heights both critically and commercially, with the release of the highest grossing animated film of all time, and multiple Academy Awards for Best Animated Feature.
Not only is this the last of the Disney movie countdown series, but it’s also the most difficult to rank. I genuinely adore all of these movies, and each is considered great to perfect in my eyes. However, just like the heroes and heroines of this era, we at Frozen Mouse Fever are always up for the challenge.
12. Ralph Breaks the Internet (2018)
“Ralph Breaks the Internet” was made for lovers of Easter Eggs. There are so many fun moments in this film, but the Disney Princesses scene is a particular standout. Poking fun at some of the outdated fairytale tropes while still being respectful of the impact the princesses have had in pop culture, it’s one of the most iconic scenes of any Disney movies. It also greatly blends the monstrosities of the internet with a humorous take while never losing focus of the video game backdrop. Yet, the overarching plot of Ralph and Vanellope’s friendship isn’t quite as strong as it is in the original, and the Ralph virus ending is weak compared to the first two thirds of the film.
11. Winnie the Pooh (2011)
The last traditionally animated film released by Walt Disney to date, Winnie the Pooh and his friends in the One Hundred Acre Woods are as charming as ever in this follow-up to the 1977 classic. The stories which are adapted from the original AA Milne stories, are as wacky and silly as Pooh stories get, with the story of Eeyore losing his tail standing out as a personal favourite. It could be argued that the Pooh characters had become oversaturated in the late 1990s, but this nostalgic tale brought the characters back to its whimsical roots. Its only downfall is its short run time. It leaves us all wanting more Pooh and friends which sadly hasn’t been delivered all these years later.
10. Frozen II (2019)
The highest grossing animated film of all-time, “Frozen II” had a lot of expectations on its shoulders. While it didn’t reach the same magical level the original set, it’s still such a fun and action-packed movie. The characters, especially Elsa and Anna, have grown immensely in this sequel allowing “Frozen II” to have a more serious tone. The plot isn’t one dimensional as it doesn’t follow the traditional hero vs. villain formula, but instead takes us on a journey to discover the origin of Elsa’s powers. Although it can be hard to follow at times, the stunning enchanted forest animated sequences and fun, empowering songs bring “Frozen II” back to solid ground.
9. The Princess and the Frog (2009)
The film that brought traditional animation back to Disney for a brief period, “The Princess and the Frog” has a unique charm with tremendous music, an exciting story and interesting characters. What makes this film extra special is its real world setting. The beautiful backdrop of New Orleans living adds a sense of realism in this fairytale even with people turning into frogs. That being said, Tiana, being the first Black princess was a long time coming and the one downside to this otherwise wonderful story is that not enough time is spent with Tiana and Prince Naveen as humans. Hopefully, the upcoming “Tiana” Disney+ show will change that.
8. Raya and the Last Dragon (2021)
The latest addition to the Disney Animation canon, “Raya and the Last Dragon” had been put on hold for so long due to COVID-19, but even with all the anticipation it did not disappoint. The film continues the studio’s trend of increased representation while delivering some seriously awesome action sequences and hilarious buddy comedy aspects as well. Raya is such a likeable heroine with the adorable Tuk Tuk by her side and her hero’s journey to ultimately save her father from the Druun at any cost while also doing her best to learn how to trust those around her. It’s a fun adventure film with a lot of heart, and hopefully down the road it will get more recognition for its greatness.
7. Wreck-It-Ralph (2012)
This film that revolves around the world of video game characters is full of awesome Easter Eggs just like its sequel, but “Wreck-It-Ralph” is much more clever and the adventure is much more colorful. It combines nostalgia with genuine emotion, with a core message to not judge people based on appearances. The King Candy plot twist is really well done, and adds a sense of danger and excitement. What makes “Wreck-It-Ralph” super special is the heartfelt friendship between Ralph and Vanellope. Each of them has been treated horribly by others, but by finding solace in each other, they also find the confidence to embrace who they are. It’s wholesome, fun-loving entertainment.
6. Moana (2016)
Arguably the most gorgeous 3D animated film of all-time, the lush landscape of Motunui sets “Moana” up for immediate success, and makes every aspect of this film come to life. That includes protagonist Moana, who is as strong and independent as it gets as she sets off on a journey to save her island. The soundtrack is pure fire, and “How Far I’ll Go” is one of Disney’s best power ballads. The plot can be too complex at times, and the lack of an interesting villain (sorry Tamatoa) does hurt the plot. However, Moana’s growing friendship with Maui makes up for that by bringing the laughs, and her relationship with her grandmother perfectly tugs at the heartstrings.
5. Encanto (2021)
Walt Disney Animation Studio’s 60th film brought Disney back to its roots in many ways, while also telling a completely unique story with music unlike anything that’s ever been heard on a Disney soundtrack. “Encanto” focuses on Mirabel, the only member of the Madrigal family to not have a special magical ability. It highlights how even the most ordinary people can be extraordinary if you give them the opportunity to do so. The music is spellbinding, which shouldn’t be a surprise considering Lin Manuel is attached to the project. The animation is also dazzling and colorful, immediately enchanting you in the world of the Madrigal’s. The only downfall is that the story is so engaging, it leaves you wanting more!
4. Zootopia (2016)
It’s not easy to address real world issues like gender equality, racism and prejudice in an animated film, but “Zootopia” does it brilliantly. Based in a world where animals co-exist peacefully in a human like environment, the film is thoughtful but also highly entertaining and incredibly smart. Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde make such a unique crime fighting team and learn a lot from each other along the way. Not only are the characters engaging, but the story is great and packed with visual detail from start to finish with plenty of twists and turns. It won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, and rightfully so, it’s such a delightfully compelling film.
3. Frozen (2013)
Perhaps Disney’s biggest hit of any era, “Frozen” has sparked a passionate flame of popularity amongst the world. The tale of a sisterly bond fractured by secrets is beautifully animated and sharply written. Between Anna’s quirkiness, Elsa’s boldness, Olaf’s sweetness and Kristoff’s kindness, it’s hard not to fall in love with the film’s highly intelligent characters. And of course, there’s that epic soundtrack. “Let It Go” is just one of many “Frozen” songs that are absolute fire! The hype behind the film has led to a lot of naysayers claiming “Frozen” is overrated. Yet, if you strip away the marketing appeal and watch the film for what it is, it’s hard to argue against the fact that it’s fantastic!
2. Big Hero 6 (2014)
The Marvel world had already been well-established when “Big Hero 6” came out. The distinctive style had never been touched by the animation studio before, but this adaptation of the under-the-radar Marvel comic couldn’t have been done any better. It’s an emotionally captivating film that highlights the importance of brotherhood and coping with loss. However, the more mature themes are made lighter with the loveable Baymax, whose healing hugs can be felt through the screen. He has quickly become one of this writer’s all-time favourite Disney characters. The superhero film combines Disney wonder and charm with action and adventure, making “Big Hero 6” one of the studio’s greatest cinematic experiences.
1. Tangled (2010)
This adaptation of “Rapunzel” takes all the best elements from the classic fairytales that have come before, mixes them together while also adding its own modern twist. By doing so, “Tangled” delivers one of the best Disney movies ever created. Rapunzel and Flynn Rider have such great chemistry together and also have compelling backstories that add to the stakes of their adventure to see the floating lanterns. It manages to move back and forth between comical and emotional seamlessly and the music adds to an already epic tale. “Tangled” is a milestone movie as it’s the 50th movie made by Walt Disney Animation Studios, and it’s evident that so much heart and soul was poured into this Princess adventure to make it a film for the ages.
What’s your favourite movie from Disney’s Revival Era? Let us know in the comments below or on one of our social media channels. And make sure to follow Frozen Mouse Fever for all your Disney needs.
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