HIGHLIGHTS
- Walt Disney Animation Studios is the oldest operating animation studio in the world, founded in 1923 by Walt Disney and his brother Roy.
- This article features the top ten underrated Disney movies.
- These movies showcase Disney’s willingness to take creative risks and explore new storytelling styles, whether through innovative animation techniques or unconventional narrative structures.
Are you looking for some of the most underrated Disney movies? Discussing and celebrating these underrated Disney films is crucial, as they showcase the studio’s diverse creative achievements, encourage experimentation in storytelling and animation, and inspire future generations of filmmakers with their hidden treasures. These Disney-underrated movies are worth a try! The beauty of Disney’s vast library is here. There’s something for everyone. So next time you’re looking for a movie to watch, consider exploring some of these underappreciated Disney movies.
Table of Contents
Top 10 Best Underrated Disney Movies
The Fox and the Hound (1981)
- Director: The film was directed by Ted Berman, Richard Rich, and Art Stevens.
- Genre: It’s an animated buddy drama film.
- Release Date: July 10, 1981
- Parental Ratings: It is rated PG (Parental Guidance) due to some intense scenes.
- Writers: based on the novel “The Fox and the Hound” by Daniel P. Mannix
Short summary: In the woods, an orphan lost baby red fox named Tod is adopted by Widow Tweed, while her neighbor Amos adopts a hound puppy named Copper. They play together despite their differences, promising to be friends forever, unaware that they are supposed to be natural enemies. But as time passes, Tod grows into a clever fox and Copper becomes a strong hunting dog. Will Tod and Copper follow the rules or will they stay true to their friendship? This movie explores the themes of friendship, loyalty, and the inevitable changes that come while growing up. It is one of the old underrated Disney movies.
In Our Opinion Reasons for Underrated Status
- It was released during the transitional period for Disney animation.
- Even though the story is heart-touching, it is not grand like other Disney movies.
- It didn’t achieve the same cultural impacts as some of the films released in the same period did.
The Great Mouse Detective (1986)
- Directors: John Musker and Ron Clements
- Genre: It’s a mix of mystery, family, animation, and action-adventure.
- Release Date: The film premiered on June 2, 1986.
- Parental Ratings: It is rated G (General Audiences).
- Writers: The story was based on the children’s book series “Basil of Baker Street” by Eve Titus and Paul Galdone.
Short summary: When young mice Olivia Flaversham’s father is kidnapped by a bat with a peg leg and a crooked wing, she asks for help from famous mouse detective Basil of Baker Street. With the help of military doctor Dawson, Basil takes on the case, driven by the involvement of his arch-nemesis, Professor Ratigan. The trio works together to foil Ratigan’s plot to overthrow the Mouse Queen by using Olivia’s father. This movie was released during Disney’s dark age, still it comes out as a gem. This movie was one of Disney’s first uses of CGI and is featured in the climactic scene inside Big Ben, showcasing the gears in impressive detail.
In Our Opinion Reasons for Underrated Status
- It was released between big Disney hits like “The Little Mermaid” and “Beauty and the Beast.”
- The animation style and tone were different compared to typical Disney movies.
- It lacks memorable songs, which were common in other Disney classics.
The Black Cauldron (1985)
- Directors: Ted Berman and Richard Rich
- Genre: It’s a mix of fantasy and animation.
- Release Date: The film was released on July 2, 1986.
- Parental Ratings: It is rated PG (Parental Guidance) for some scary images.
- Writers: this film was based on Lloyd Alexander’s novel “The Chronicles of Prydain” and was adapted for the screen by various writers.
Short summary: “The Black Cauldron” is a dark fantasy animated film by Disney. In a land of magic, Taran, a young assistant pig-keeper who dreams of becoming a great warrior. He finds a scary pot – the Black Cauldron! This pot can make an army of bones come alive, and a mean evil king named Horned King wants it. Taran teams up with a princess, a musician, and a furry friend to stop the Horned King.
In Our Opinion Reasons for Underrated Status
- It was dark and unconventional compared to a typical Disney film.
- Marketing failed to attract audiences.
- It was released during a period when Disney was experimenting with different styles.
Atlantis: The Lost Empire (2001)
- Directors: Gary Trousdale and Kirk Wise
- Genre: It’s a blend of science fiction, family, fantasy, and animation.
- Release Date: The film premiered in Paris on June 3, 2001, and had a wide release in the United States on June 15, 2001.
- Parental Ratings: It is rated PG (Parental Guidance).
- Writers: The story was developed by a team including Tab Murphy, Joss Wheldon, and the writing team of Bryce Zabel and Jackie Zabel.
Short summary: “Atlantis: The Lost Empire” is an animated science fiction adventure film that follows the story of milo. Milo,a museum geek who is obsessed with the legendary lost city of Atlantis and believes in its existence. He gets the chance to join a real life expedition funded by millionaire Preston Whitmore. He then teams up with a brave crew led by Captain Rourke to venture deep in the ocean. They faced many obstacles throughout the journey and just when they finally reached atlantis. They fell into moral dilemmas and faced a shocking betrayal! Milo and his allies must protect this ancient civilization from destruction.
In Our Opinion Reasons for Underrated Status
- This movie was in a non-musical format, which was unusual for Disney.
- It was targeted at an older audience, which may have alienated younger viewers.
- It was released during a competitive time for animated films, reducing its visibility.
Treasure Planet (2002)
- Directors: John Musker and Ron Clements
- Genre: It’s a blend of science fiction and animation.
- Release Date: The film premiered in Paris on November 6, 2002, and had a wide release in the United States on November 27, 2002.
- Parental Ratings: It is rated PG (Parental Guidance).
- Writers: The film is based on Robert Louis Stevenson’s adventure novel “Treasure Island” and was adapted for the screen by Ron Clements, John Musker, and others.
Short summary: “Treasure Planet” is based on Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic novel “Treasure Island”. This movie follows the story of Jim, a restless teen, who rescues a dying alien. He received a treasure map from that alien. Jim then joins the crew for a space expedition. There he met John Silver and became close to him. Later he discovers that Silver is actually a pirate planning to seize the treasure for himself, now what will Jim do? This movie was sandwiched between more popular titles releasing during that year. This movie had good visuals.
In Our Opinion Reasons for Underrated Status
- This movie tried to blend traditional animation with CGI, which was divisive.
- It was released during a period when Disney was facing some challenges.
- Marketing failed to convey its unique premise to an audience.
Robin Hood (1973)
- Director: The film was directed by Wolfgang Reitherman.
- Genre: It’s an animated musical adventure comedy.
- Release Date: The film was released on November 8, 1973.
- Parental Ratings: It is rated G (General Audiences).
- Writers: The story is based on the legend of Robin Hood and was adapted for the screen by various writers.
Short summary: “Robin Hood” is an animated movie based on classic English folklore with some twist. This story follows Robin Hood, a clever and brave fox, who, along with his loyal friend Little bear, robs from the rich to give to the poor in the town of Nottingham. Because the evil Prince John, a cowardly lion who took away the throne from his brother King Richard, imposes heavy taxes on the townsfolk. And that evil prince wants to crush the spirit of the people. Can Robinhood protect his friends from him?
In Our Opinion Reasons for Underrated Status
- It had a simple animation style compared to other Disney classics.
- This movie lacks memorable songs or iconic moments.
- It was released during the transition period for Disney animation.
Dinosaur (2000)
- Directors: Ralph Zondag and Eric Leighton
- Genre: It’s a blend of science fiction, family, and animation.
- Release Date: The film premiered on May 19, 2000.
- Parental Ratings: It is rated PG (Parental Guidance) for intense images.
- Writers: The story was developed by a team including John Harrison, Robert Nelson Jacobs, and others.
Short summary: “Dinosaur” follows Aladar, a young Iguanodon who was raised by lemurs and he grew up believing he’s one of them. After a meteor shower destroys their island home, Aladar and his lemur family join a herd of dinosaurs who are on their way to find the safe Nesting Grounds. Aladar’s compassionate nature conflicts with the herd leader Kron’s harsh survival tactics. Aladar and his herd face dangerous predators and challenging terrain as they fight for survival. Ultimately, Aladar’s cooperative approach helps the herd reach the Nesting Grounds, leading to a new beginning for all.
In Our Opinion Reasons for Underrated Status
- This movie had a combination of live-action backgrounds and CGI characters but didn’t resonate with everyone.
- Story of this movie kind of lacked depth and emotional impact.
The Sword in the Stone (1963)
- Director: The film was directed by Wolfgang Reitherman.
- Genre: It’s an animated fantasy adventure.
- Release Date: The film was released on December 25, 1963.
- Parental Ratings: It is rated G (General Audiences).
- Writers: The film is based on T.H. White’s novel “The Sword in the Stone” was adapted for the screen by various writers.
Short summary: “The Sword in the Stone” tells the story of a young boy named Arthur(wart),an awkward yet good hearted orphan. He always longs for a more exciting life. That is he wishes to become a knight. He got tutored by a wizard whose teaching practices required him to undergo several magical transformations and adventures. Through these transformations Merlin teaches Arthur(wart) valuable lessons about wisdom, bravery, and the importance of education. Arthur eventually pulls a magical sword from a stone, revealing his destiny as the future King of England.
In Our Opinion Reasons for Underrated Status
- This movie had a simple animation and it lacked grandeur.
- It was released during a period when Disney was shifting its focus.
- And it was not as iconic as other Arthurian adaptations.
Also read: Disney plus Hotstar Animated Movies
Pete’s Dragon (2016)
- Director: The film was directed by David Lowery.
- Genre: It’s a blend of live-action and animation, with a fantasy adventure theme.
- Release Date: The film premiered on August 8, 2016.
- Parental Ratings: It is rated PG (Parental Guidance).
- Writers: The screenplay was written by David Lowery and Toby Halbrooks.
Short summary: “Pete’s Dragon” follows the story of a young boy named Pete who befriends a giant, green dragon named Elliot. Together they formed a deep bond and kept living hidden in the forest for years. They both were living comfortable lives until Pete was found by humans. When Pete is discovered by a kind forest ranger, Grace, and her family, they learn about his extraordinary companion. And they all together make a mission to protect Elliot. Will they be able to protect him or what will happen to Pete and Elliot’s friendship?
In Our Opinion Reasons for Underrated Status
- This movie was a remake of a lesser-known Disney film from 1977.
- This movie failed to capture the same magic as other Disney live-action adaptations.
Bolt (2008)
- Directors: Byron Howard and Chris Williams directed this animated comedy-adventure film.
- Genre: It’s an animated action-comedy.
- Release Date: The film premiered on November 21, 2008.
- Parental Ratings: It is rated PG (Parental Guidance).
- Writers: The story was developed by a team including Dan Fogelman, Chris Williams, and others.
Short summary: Bolt follows the story of Bolt, a white shepherd dog who stars as a superhero in a hit tv show and believes that his powers are real. And When he was accidentally shipped from his Hollywood soundstage to New York City, Bolt set out on a cross-country journey back home, accompanied by a sarcastic alley cat named Mittens and a TV-obsessed hamster named Rhino. These unlikely companions help Bolt navigate the real world, where he hilariously tries to use his non-existent powers. As Bolt learns more about himself and the world around him, he starts to question his purpose and what it truly means to be a hero. Will Bolt discover his real strength and courage, even without superpowers? Will he find his way back to Penny and discover the truth behind their TV life?
In Our Opinion Reasons for Underrated Status
- It was released during a time when Pixar was dominating the animation scene.
- This movie’s premise was interesting but it still couldn’t resonate strongly with audiences.
FAQs
Are these movies suitable for all ages?
While most of these films are family-friendly and suitable for all ages, some may contain elements that could be frightening or unsuitable for very young viewers. It’s always a good idea to check parental guidance ratings before watching.
How were the movies selected for the top underrated Disney movies list?
The movies were selected based on criteria such as box office success, critical reception, cultural impact, and mainstream popularity. Additionally, extensive research was conducted on various internet forums to ensure a comprehensive representation of films that may have been overlooked or underappreciated in the Disney canon.
