20 Of The Greatest And Most Underrated Disney Movies That Don't Get The Recognition They Deserve

With so many options to choose from, it's understandable that some movies might slip through the cracks. But here's something to reignite the fire!

Jesse

• Published in Disney
• October 16, 2021

Disney movies are some of the most popular animated films ever made. They have been entertaining people for almost a century, and they show no sign of stopping anytime soon.

Think about your favorite Disney movies; "The Little Mermaid" and "Beauty & The Beast," right? They're classics, but what about some of the other amazing films that people don't talk about enough?

With so many options to choose from, it's understandable that a few movies might slip through the cracks. Sometimes it's because they're not as popular, while others are just overshadowed by their blockbuster counterparts.

When you look back at your old stash of Disney VCDs and DVDs, you might be surprised to find films that have been forgotten about; movies that gave you all of the enchanting thrills but have been left in the dusty depths of your childhood.

Don't worry; this isn't a bummer post about "forgotten children's movies." In fact, there are plenty to choose from that will make you smile and reignite your love for Disney!

To give some appreciation to the underrated movies in this fantastic franchise, here are 20 of the most notable Disney movies that the world needs to appreciate more.

At one point or the other, you've probably had that feeling that your favorite Disney movies aren't getting enough credit. Well, this post is dedicated to bringing as many of those awesome movies back into the spotlight. Let's start from the vintage classics.

1. Bambi (21st August 1942)

What a great work of art that goes unappreciated all the time! In fact, it's likely that the majority of people in this generation have no idea who he is. My heart aches at the thought of it!

2. 101 Dalmatians (25th January 1961)

With all the remakes and iterations, this timeless classic is often overlooked. But there's no denying that the animated version is superior.

You can't go wrong with a classic love story and an abundance of pups to keep track of!

3. The Sword in the Stone (25th December 1963)

This story has been told in a variety of ways, all of which are excellent, but this particular version captured the magic of the narrative for many fans.

4. The Jungle Book (18th October 1967)

The bare necessities of life will come to you...they'll come to you!

Don't be shy about yelling out the lyrics if you know them. Although the live-action remake was excellent, there's no denying that the original animated film is absolutely amazing!

5. Robin Hood (8th November 1973)

Another fantastic film with a variety of depictions of the narrative, but this is an absolute favorite from our youth that often goes overlooked.

6. The Rescuers (22nd June 1977)

I'll bet just a small percentage of you have watched this timeless masterpiece. This excellent film is largely unknown and unnoticed.

7. The Fox and the Hound (10th July 1981)

I'm a hound dog!

They're just too adorable for words!—i'm reeling from cuteness overload. If you haven't seen this heartbreaking, dramatic, and fantastic film, I urge you to do so immediately.

8. The Black Cauldron (1st January 1985)

Not many people know about this one, but it's a fantastic adventure tale. You'll enjoy this one if you liked The Sword In The Stone.

9. The Great Mouse Detective (2nd July 1986)

Professor Ratigan and his exploits are as old as time. Aside from that, who doesn't enjoy a good thriller?

10. The Brave Little Toaster (31st May 1989)

This movie was AWESOME! If you didn't see this Disney classic as a kid, then you really missed out on something huge! Fortunately, you still have time to watch it and make up for your loss.

11. Oliver & Company (18th November 1988)

Here we go again with another flood of cuteness!! Growing up, this was a personal favorite. You can't go wrong with a rambunctious dog and an even cuter kitten who become lifelong buddies!

12. Pocahontas (23rd June 1995)

That's right! Pocahontas is a Princess who is undervalued and underappreciated. When it comes to standing up for what's right, we could all use a little more Pocahontas in our lives.

13. A Goofy Movie (7th April 1995)

It's hard to beat the original, and this is the one that started it all for Goofy. I don't think we get enough of Max.

14. The Hunchback of Notre Dame (21st June 1996)

Even if you're not watching the movie, the melodic songs will blow you away. This timeless classic will have you up and dancing, singing along, and laughing the entire time.

15. Tarzan (18th June 1999)

For several fans worldwide, this animated version of Tarzan will always be the favorite adaptation of the character, despite numerous other versions being produced. The soundtrack is also incredible; food for the soul.

16. The Emperor's New Groove (10th December 2000)

A compelling narrative drives the action in this movie.

Emperor Kuzco, a conceited young man, gets turned into a llama by his scheming advisor, the diva Yzma. Kuzco is stranded in the jungle, and his only hope of returning home and reclaiming his throne is a kind peasant named Pacha.

That said, if you haven't watched this amusing and heartwarming film, what are you waiting for?

17. The Brother Bear (20th October 2003)

There were many of us who watched this movie numerous times, memorizing all of the dialogue. Every child should see it. In fact, I'm on my way to watch it yet again.

18. The Wild (14th April 2006)

What if I told you that this is a Disney creation? Yea, that's right, many people don't know this. The Wild is one exciting movie that a lot of people have completely forgotten!

19. Meet the Robinsons (30th March 2007)

A great Disney movie from the early aughts! Despite the fact that it is often forgotten, this movie is one of the finest, as it teaches us to "keep pushing forward."

20. Bolt (21st November 2008)

Amazing to think that this movie was released almost a decade ago! Unfortunately, most people have forgotten about it, but that doesn't change the fact that it's a masterpiece!

Those were the days, wasn't it? What movie do you think deserves more credit than it gets?

We hope you take this list as a helpful guide to some of the lesser-known Disney movies. If your favorite movie is not on here, it doesn't mean that we don't love it too—it just means that it might be more appreciated than these ones are.

The next time you're looking for something new to watch with your family or just by yourself, give one of these underrated gems a try and let us know what you think in the comments below!

Jesse