We all know the Disney classics like Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, Pinochio, Lady and the Tramp, etc. They are nostalgic, magical, wholesome and beloved for a reason. However, there are many Disney movies that are just as good and worth the watch but not as well known. Here are 7 of the most underrated Disney movies ever made.
7. Bolt (2008)
Bolt is a 2008 animated film about a dog who stars in a fictional sci-fi/action show and believes his powers in the show are real. So, he embarks on a journey across the country to save his co-star from a threat he believes is real.
Bolt is a not-too-serious comedy with likable characters. Bolt is a special character as he displays both his serious attitude of someone attempting to complete a mission, while also being curious as he is experiencing many new things for the first time. Bolt’s character makes the film enjoyable and one of the most underrated disney movies as he creates a film about maturing and identity.
6. The Three Lives of Thomasina (1963)
The Three Lives of Thomasina is about a cat named Thomasina who brings a family together through her mysterious death and reappearance.
This film is quite unique and therefore quite unknown. Though the film has fantastical and more childish elements, it handles more complex themes such as death, grief, and depression. However, these themes are handled with care, making a heartfelt Disney masterpiece that is underrated.
5. Treasure Planet (2002)
Treasure Planet follows Jim Hawkins on his quest to find the elusive Treasure Planet. Loosely based on the novel Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson, Treasure Planet is an action, comedy, and adventure film that is easily one of the most underrated Disney movies.
After taking 10 years to complete, Treasure Planet was innovative for its time, introducing Virtual Scenarios, where a 360-degree environment was made for the animated character to interact with. Though the film did not do very well in theaters, it was nominated for an Oscar for “Best Animated Feature” and has continually been gaining new fans.
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4. Atlantis: The Lost Empire (2001)
Atlantis: The Lost Empire is a 2001 animated film that follows a young Linguist, Milo Thatch, who joins a group of explorers to find the lost continent of Atlantis.
Atlantis: The Lost Empire is loved for its aesthetic, which captures the feeling of a classic adventure story along with the lovable, rich side characters. It is also exciting to many viewers as it explores the unknown, Atlantis, a long time mystery to our society, making the film one of the most underrated Disney movies.
3. The Great Mouse Detective (1986)
The Great Mouse Detective follows Basil, the rodent version of Sherlock Holmes, as he investigates the kidnapping of a toy maker and uncovers the case’s link to his archenemy, Professor Ratigan.
The film was adapted from the Eve Titus and Paul Galdone “Basil of Baker Street,” book series, originally a reimagining of “Sherlock Holmes” in the streets of London for kids. The movie is full of urbanism and charismatic characters along with impressive animation for the time. Though the plot is often thought of as silly, The Great Mouse Detective was released in a low-point for Disney in the 1980s and the film’s success was a major turning point for the company, making it one of the most underrated Disney movies ever.
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2. Brother Bear (2003)
Brother Bear is about a young Inuit hunter who when he needlessly kills a bear, the spirits of the mountain magically transform him into the bear himself.
Brother Bear is one of the most underrated Disney movies because it provides its audience with many important messages in an accessible way for viewers of all ages. It not only provides commentary about the cycle of vengeance, but also emphasizes the importance of love and compassion over anger and violence for all beings, not just humans.
1. The Emperor’s New Groove (2000)
The Emperor’s New Groove follows arrogant and self-centered Emperor Kuzco who is turned into a llama by his ex-administrator Yzma, and now he must regain the throne with the help of Pacha, a llama herder, whose cart the Emperor has found himself in.
The Emperor’s New Groove is easily the most underrated Disney film. The film is comical and clever with perfectly-timed gags tied together with a fantastical plot. The characters are also extremely memorable for their eccentric personalities and uniqueness, breaking the fourth wall and defying the rules of the movie screen.