While the month of May will technically start on Sunday, we’re in for a longer wait for new movies on Disney+. Unfortunately, the upcoming titles are still a few weeks away and the supply of new flicks has dried up in the interim. It’s really not ideal, But Disney+ does have something for just such an occasion. In fact, it kind of has something for almost everyone in its near-complete library of films from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic. With this lineup, it’s never a bad idea to take a walk down memory lane and revisit some old favorites. So sit back and enjoy the show after you’ve selected your next film from the best movies on Disney+ right now.
If you’ve yet to do so, be sure to check out the Disney Bundle, which will get you Disney+, ESPN+, and a basic Hulu subscription for just $14 a month. You’re essentially getting three streaming services for the price of two, which is one heck of a deal.
If you want to expand your search, we’ve also rounded up the best shows on Disney+ as well as the best movies on Netflix, the best movies on Amazon Prime, and the best movies on Hulu.
Recently added to Disney+
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The Finest Hours2016 -
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Polar Bear2022
Avatar (2009)
162m
Genre
Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Science Fiction
Stars
Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana, Sigourney Weaver
Directed by
James Cameron
It’s finally happened: the first of four Avatar sequels has been unveiled at CinemaCon, and it only took 13 years. The original Avatar will be re-released ahead of the sequel, but it’s already at your fingertips here on Disney+. And director James Cameron’s film is still a dazzling visual masterpiece in 2D. The story follows a disabled marine named Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) who is hired to travel to the alien world of Pandora to pilot an avatar body in order to spy on the Na’vi and get their trust. Instead, Jake finds himself falling for a Na’vi warrior, Neytiri (Zoe Saldana), and he becomes increasingly alarmed about what his people plan to do to the planet.
The Finest Hours (2016) new
117m
Genre
Action, Drama, History, Thriller
Stars
Chris Pine, Casey Affleck, Ben Foster
Directed by
Craig Gillespie
Disney doesn’t often venture into live-action drama, but The Finest Hours is a rare exception. It’s a dramatization of the true story about the rescue of the SS Pendleton in 1952. Coast Guard crewman Bernard “Bernie” Webber (Chris Pane) finds himself unexpectedly dispatched to save the crew of the Pendleton after it is torn in two by a powerful storm. On the Pendelton, Ray Sybert (Casey Affleck) rallies the surviving crew to keep the ship above water long enough for help to arrive. The fight for survival will push the crew to their limit, and challenge the rescuers as well.
Marvel's Behind the Mask (2021) new
64m
Genre
Documentary
Stars
Joe Quesada, Peter Sanderson, Sana Amanat
Directed by
Mike Jacobs
Behind the Mask is not a Marvel Studios movie. Instead, it’s a documentary that focuses on the comics that laid the groundwork for that franchise. According to Marvel’s Joe Quesada, the reason why Marvel’s heroes resonate so intensely with its readers is because of who they are “behind the mask.” Someone must have noticed that the expression makes for a great movie title. This documentary spans the length of Marvel’s history from the creation of Captain America by Jack Kirby and Joe Simon to the modern creators who bring Marvel’s heroes to life. It also looks at the lives of the writers and artists, and how their real-world experiences informed their superhero stories.
Kim Possible: So the Drama (2005) new
71m
Genre
Animation, Adventure, Family, Action
Stars
Christy Carlson Romano, Will Friedle, Nancy Cartwright
Directed by
Steve Loter
On the big screen, most of Disney’s heroines are princesses or royalty. But in this made-for-TV movie, Kim Possible (Christy Carlson Romano) is a teenage secret agent with her own sidekick, Ron Stoppable (Will Friedle). Spinning out of the Kim Possible TV series, So the Drama puts Kim and Ron’s relationship through its first real test when he realizes that he has romantic feelings for her. Unfortunately, that revelation comes just as Kim starts dating a new kid named Eric (Ricky Ullman). Meanwhile, Kim’s nemesis, Dr. Drakken (John DiMaggio), and his sidekick, Shego (Nicole Sullivan), plot their revenge on Kim.
Polar Bear (2022) new
84m
Genre
Documentary
Stars
Catherine Keener
Directed by
Alastair Fothergill, Jeff Wilson
Just because Disney owns National Geographic now, it doesn’t mean that Disneynature has closed up shop. Far from it, in fact. To celebrate this year’s Earth Day, Disneynature has released Polar Bear, a new documentary that features stunning and beautiful visuals from the Arctic. It’s almost like watching life on another planet. The film follows a female polar bear and her two cubs as they struggle to survive in increasingly dangerous terrain. Climate change has made it even harder for animals to live in one of the harshest places on Earth. But you’ll root for these bears every single step of the way.
Monsters, Inc. (2001)
92m
Genre
Animation, Comedy, Family
Stars
John Goodman, Billy Crystal, Mary Gibbs
Directed by
Pete Docter
Monsters, Inc. is one of Pixar’s finest films from its early years, and it features a great comedic duo in John Goodman and Billy Crystal. In an alternate world populated by monsters, energy is only available from harnessing the screams of human children. Mike (Crystal) and Sullivan (Goodman) are two monsters who are assigned to the scare floor before they accidentally bring a girl named Boo (May Gibbs) back from the human world. When Mike and Sully try to protect Boo from harm, they also discover secrets that may bring down Monsters, Inc. for good.
Fantastic Four (2005)
106m
Genre
Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Science Fiction
Stars
Ioan Gruffudd, Jessica Alba, Chris Evans
Directed by
Tim Story
While 20th Century Studios’ Fantastic Four movie is technically the second film with these characters, almost everyone pretends that the 1994 Roger Corman flick didn’t exist. This isn’t quite as good as the Marvel Studios films that followed, but it’s still a good adaptation of Marvel’s first family of superheroes. Ioan Gruffudd stars as Reed Richards / Mr. Fantastic, with Jessica Alba as Sue Storm / Invisible Woman, Chris Evans as Johnny Storm / Human Torch, and Michael Chiklis as Ben Grimm / The Thing. After a mission in space exposes them to cosmic rays, the FF become both celebrities and superheroes. However, Ben’s desire to be human allows Victor Von Doom (Julian McMahon) the opportunity to take down the team.
Jack (1996)
113m
Genre
Family, Comedy, Drama
Stars
Robin Williams, Diane Lane, Brian Kerwin
Directed by
Francis Ford Coppola
The late Robin Williams was the perfect choice to play an overgrown child in Jack. Within the film, Jack Powell (Williams) is stricken with a rare disorder that ages him at four times the rate of normal kids. So at 10 years old, Jack looks like he’s 40. Although Jack’s parents, Karen (Diane Lane) and Brian Powell (Brian Kerwin), keep him sheltered, they eventually allow him to go to school with kids his own age. Jack soon makes a connection with his fellow students and his teacher, Miss Marquez (Jennifer Lopez). Yet Jack also comes to realize that school may be pointless if his disorder means that he will never truly get to live.
Tangled (2010)
100m
Genre
Animation, Family
Stars
Mandy Moore, Zachary Levi, Donna Murphy
Directed by
Byron Howard, Nathan Greno
Tangled is a pre-Frozen Disney animated film, and yet its formula is even more fun than the blockbuster that came after it. This is a modernized retelling of Rapunzel with a twist. For one thing, Rapunzel (Mandy Moore) has total control of her legendary long hair as both a handy tool and a weapon when needed. In short, she’s no damsel in distress! In fact, she’s the one who kidnaps the thief, Flynn Rider (Zachary Levi), when he stumbles upon her home in the tower. But if Rapunzel wants her freedom, she will have to find a way to trust this man who dropped in on her.
The Last Song (2010)
107m
Genre
Drama, Family, Romance
Stars
Miley Cyrus, Greg Kinnear, Bobby Coleman
Directed by
Julie Anne Robinson
Miley Cyrus had a chance to expand her acting range beyond Hannah Montana with The Last Song. In this film, Cyrus plays Veronica “Ronnie” L. Miller, a troubled teenage girl who is sent to live with her father, Steve Miller (Greg Kinnear), for the summer. Ronnie never forgave Steve after he divorced her mother, Kim (Kelly Preston), and she even turned her back on higher education just because Steve wanted her to attend Julliard. But over time, Ronnie forms a romance with Will Blakelee (Liam Hemsworth) and reconnects with her father. However, Steve’s terminal illness means that he and Ronnie have only a limited time to create a song together.
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005)
143m
Genre
Adventure, Family, Fantasy
Stars
Georgie Henley, Skandar Keynes, William Moseley
Directed by
Andrew Adamson
C.S. Lewis’ The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe was the first novel in his Chronicles of Narnia fantasy saga. In this modern adaptation, four children are sent to the British countryside during World War II. Young Lucy Pevensie (Georgie Henley) soon stumbles upon a gateway to the realm of Narnia, which has fallen under the influence of the White Witch (Tilda Swinton). Lucy’s siblings, Peter (William Moseley), Susan (Anna Popplewell), and Edmund (Skandar Keynes), find their way to Narnia as well. And while the great lion, Aslan (Liam Neeson), is a very Christ-like savior, it’s the Pevensie siblings who have to save Narnia from the witch.
Step (2017)
83m
Genre
Documentary
Stars
Paula Dofat, Cori Grainger, Tayla Solomon
Directed by
Amanda Lipitz
Produced by the former Fox Searchlight Films, director Amanda Lipitz’s Step is a compelling look at the young women in the high school step team at an all-female instituion in Baltimore. It tells their personal stories on stage and behind the scenes as they strive to reach the championships and show off their talents. The film also chronicles the school’s goal to get all of its students into college, even when the odds appeared to be stacked against them.
Chasing Mavericks (2012)
117m
Genre
Drama
Stars
Gerard Butler, Jonny Weston, Elisabeth Shue
Directed by
Curtis Hanson, Michael Apted
Chasing Mavericks is based on the inspirational true story of Jay Moriarity (Jonny Weston), a teenager who became enamored with surfing after his life was saved by a pro surfer named Richard ‘Frosty’ Hesson (Gerard Butler). Years after their initial encounter, Jay convinces Frosty to show him the ropes, so to speak, and he emotionally comforts Frosty following the death of his wife, Brenda (Abigail Spencer). In turn, Frosty helps Jay navigate some very difficult periods in his life on his way towards becoming the surfer that he always wanted to be.
Embrace the Panda: Making Turning Red (2022)
48m
Genre
Documentary
Stars
Domee Shi, Rona Liu, Lindsey Collins
Directed by
Erica Milsom
One of the neat things about Disney+ is that you don’t have to wait long for original documentaries about Pixar’s latest films. Case in point, Embrace the Panda: Making Turning Red offers an inside look at the first-ever all-female creative team behind a Pixar movie. Turning Red director Domee Shi and other members of the team share their personal stories and explain how it informed their creative efforts on the movie. Watching this documentary may also give you a greater appreciation of the artistry and passion behind Turning Red.
Born in China (2016)
76m
Genre
Documentary
Stars
John Krasinski, Zhou Xun
Directed by
Lu Chuan
Disneynature’s Born in China has an interesting approach to its storytelling. It focuses on the family dynamics of a giant panda and her daughter, a snow leopard and her cubs, and a golden snub-nosed monkey named TaoTao. The story of TaoTao may be the most compelling, since we see him get rejected by his family when a new sibling enters the picture. But TaoTao doesn’t give up on rejoining his clan. There’s also a certain desperation to the story of Dawa the snow leopard, as she tries to keep herself and her cubs alive. As for the pandas, it’s impossible not to fall for these large adorable creatures as a mother named YaYa teaches her daughter MeiMei how to make her way in the world.
Togo (2019)
113m
Genre
Adventure, Family
Stars
Willem Dafoe, Julianne Nicholson, Christopher Heyerdahl
Directed by
Ericson Core
Togo is a Disney+ original movie that dramatizes the life of Leonhard Seppala (Willem Dafoe) and his dog, Togo (Diesel), both of whom were heroes for their part in the 1925 serum run to Nome, Alaska. As a young pup, Togo has an uncontrollable streak that frustrates Leonhard. However, Togo’s aptitude for sledding and leading dog teams quickly wins over his owner. When Togo is 12, he and Leonhard are part of a relay team called upon to get a badly needed shipment of diphtheria antitoxin to Nome before an epidemic overtakes the town. But due to the harsh weather conditions, Togo’s life is truly in danger as they push forward on their journey.
Better Nate Than Ever (2022)
92m
Genre
Family, Comedy
Stars
Rueby Wood, Lisa Kudrow, Joshua Bassett
Directed by
Tim Federle
It’s fitting that following your dreams is a big part of Better Nate Than Ever, since Tim Federie got to write and direct the adaptation based on his own novel. That’s extremely rare in Hollywood! Rueby Wood stars in the film as Nate Foster, a kid with oversized Broadway ambitions. He wants to be a star, but he never gets the chance to shine. That’s why Nate and his best pal, Libby (Aria Brooks), sneak away to New York City. With the help of Nate’s Aunt Heidi (Lisa Kudrow), they might just find the chance they’ve been looking for.
Wild Hearts Can't Be Broken (1991)
88m
Genre
Drama, Family
Stars
Gabrielle Anwar, Cliff Robertson, Michael Schoeffling
Directed by
Steve Miner
Wild Hearts Can’t Be Broken is loosely based upon the real story of Sonora Webster (Gabrielle Anwar), an orphan in the Great Depression who had an unusual affinity with horses. After joining the traveling show run by Doc Carver (Cliff Robertson) and his son, Al Carver (Michael Schoeffling), Sonora makes it her ambition to become a horse diver and perform in front of the crowds. However, a personal tragedy threatens to tear down everything that Sonora has built for herself. Somehow, Sonora has to find her way back and reclaim what she lost.
Summer of Soul (...Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised) (2021)
117m
Genre
Documentary, Music
Stars
Stevie Wonder, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Jesse Jackson
Directed by
Questlove
Almost everyone has heard of Woodstock, but have you ever heard about the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival? Imagine a lineup that included Sly and the Family Stone, Stevie Wonder, Gladys Knight & the Pips, The 5th Dimension, The Staple Singers, B.B. King, Mahalia Jackson, Nina Simone, Blinky Williams, and more performers over the course of six weeks. Regardless of those legendary acts, the footage from the event was locked away for decades until director Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson’s Summer of Soul restored the video and provided some modern context for what may have been one of the greatest music festivals ever held.
Candleshoe (1977)
101m
Genre
Family
Stars
David Niven, Jodie Foster, Helen Hayes
Directed by
Norman Tokar
It may surprise you to hear that a year after starring in Taxi Driver, Jodie Foster had one of the leading roles in Disney’s Candleshoe. Within the film, Foster plays an orphan named Casey Brown who is recruited by con artists Harry Bundage (Leo McKern) and Clara Grimsworthy (Vivian Pickles) into the potential score of a lifetime. There is a treasure hidden within the Candleshoe estate, and Casey bares more than a passing resemblance to the long-missing granddaughter of Lady Gwendolyn St. Edmund (Helen Hayes). But once Casey finds a home in Candleshoe, she finds her loyalty shifting to Lady Gwendolyn and the faithful family butler, Priory (David Niven).
The Straight Story (1999)
112m
Genre
Drama
Stars
Richard Farnsworth, Sissy Spacek, Jane Galloway Heitz
Directed by
David Lynch
The Straight Story is likely to be the only Disney movie ever to be directed by David Lynch. It’s quite a departure from Lynch’s usual fare, but it is a powerful film that is based upon the true story of Alvin Straight (Richard Farnsworth). Although Alvin is too physically frail to drive, he manages to hook up his homemade trailer to a 30-year-old lawn tractor in order to visit his terminally ill brother, Lyle (Harry Dean Stanton), and fix the emotional rift between them. Because Alvin can only travel 5 mph, he encounters some scorn on his journey. Yet Alvin’s heart wins over almost everyone he meets along the way.
Turning Red (2022)
100m
Genre
Animation, Family, Comedy, Fantasy
Stars
Rosalie Chiang, Sandra Oh, Jordan Fisher
Directed by
Domee Shi
If you’re wondering if Pixar’s latest film lives up to its legacy, the answer is a resounding “yes.” Turning Red takes place two decades ago, and follows a 13-year-old girl named Meilin “Mei” Lee. Mei is at a time in her life when her body is changing in strange ways, like transforming into a giant red panda whenever she feels any strong emotion. Is it a curse or a blessing? It turns out that Mei’s distant ancestors had a mystical bond with red pandas. Unfortunately for Mei, she has to find her own answers. And it’s a good thing that she has friends who love her, regardless of whether she’s a red panda or not.
West Side Story (2021)
156m
Genre
Drama, Romance, Crime
Stars
Ansel Elgort, Rachel Zegler, Rita Moreno
Directed by
Steven Spielberg
How do you top a classic? Apparently, the answer is “you hire Steven Spielberg.” Remaking West Side Story was a passion project for Spielberg, and it shows. The result is one of most dazzling movie musicals in years, and a film that may surpass the 1961 adaptation of the hit musical. Rachel Zegler makes her film debut as Maria, opposite Ansel Elgort’s Tony. In 1957, these two lovebirds are in a world of their own. Unfortunately, they also have dueling loyalties to the local gangs, the Jets and the Sharks. This is definitely a Romeo and Juliet-style story, so it’s not going to make everyone happy in the end. Regardless, this film is a triumph, and it shines on Disney+.
John Carter (2012)
132m
Genre
Action, Adventure, Science Fiction
Stars
Taylor Kitsch, Lynn Collins, Samantha Morton
Directed by
Andrew Stanton
This week marks the 10th anniversary of Disney’s John Carter movie, an unjustly-maligned box office bomb that is far better than the reviews suggest. This was a passion project for Pixar director Andrew Stanton, and he modernized Edgar Rice Burroughs’ classic sci-fi novel, A Princess of Mars. Taylor Kitsch stars as John Carter, a former Confederate captain who finds himself transported to Mars. Although the natives call it Barsoom. John is immediately attracted to the fierce Martian princess, Dejah Thoris (Lynn Collins). And John’s newfound strength and abilities may be the key to saving the planet from ruin.
Meet the Robinsons (2007)
95m
Genre
Animation, Comedy, Family
Stars
Jordan Fry, Wesley Singerman, Matthew Josten
Directed by
Stephen J. Anderson
Welcome to the future! And it’s time to get acquainted with a very unusual family in Meet the Robinsons. Jordan Fry stars as Lewis, a 12-year old orphan who also happens to be a brilliant inventor. When Lewis’ science project is disrupted by a bad guy from the future, he meets an adventurous 13-year old named Wilbur Robinson (Wesley Singerman). After befriending Lewis, Wilbur takes him back to 2037 to put the timeline back on course. However, the secret that Wilbur is keeping from Lewis could prevent the Robinsons from ever becoming a family in the past.
Amy (1981)
100m
Genre
Family, Drama
Stars
Jenny Agutter, Barry Newman, Kathleen Nolan
Directed by
Vincent McEveety
Amy is the kind of film that would probably be buried in a vault if it wasn’t available on Disney+. This is a live-action movie made by Disney in 1981, but it deserves a wider audience even four decades later. Jenny Agutter stars as Amy Medford, a woman who loses her son at a young age. In 1913, Amy leaves her dominating husband, Elliot Medford (Chris Robinson), and reinvents herself as an instructor at a school for deaf and blind students. Regardless of the challenges, Amy won’t give up on her students, or herself.
Jane Goodall: The Hope (2020)
88m
Genre
Documentary, Adventure
Stars
Jane Goodall
Directed by
Elizabeth Leiter, Kim Woodard
Dr. Jane Goodall has led an inspiring life, and her chimpanzee studies were groundbreaking. She has also become a renowned conservationist, speaker, and author. And her 60-year career isn’t over yet. Jane Goodall: The Hope follows Goodall on her current path as an advocate for animals and an ambassador for science who wants to inspire a new generation to forge their own path to give this world a brighter future. If you’ve been looking for hope in these bleak times, then hope has found you here.
Free Guy (2021)
115m
Genre
Comedy, Action, Adventure, Science Fiction
Stars
Ryan Reynolds, Jodie Comer, Joe Keery
Directed by
Shawn Levy
In video game jargon, a Free Guy is when the playable character has an extra life. But in the movie of the same name, Free Guy carries a different meaning. Ryan Reynolds plays Guy, an unassuming bank teller living in Free City. Guy has no idea that he’s actually a non-player character living in a video game world. However, the arrival of Millie (Jodie Comer) opens Guy’s eyes to the reality of his existence. His entire world is in peril, and Guy may be the only one capable of stepping up to protect it.
Pete's Dragon (2016)
103m
Genre
Adventure, Family, Fantasy
Stars
Oakes Fegley, Bryce Dallas Howard, Wes Bentley
Directed by
David Lowery
The original Pete’s Dragon from 1977 has a lot of charm, especially for Helen Reddy’s wonderful rendition of Candle on the Water. But the 2016 remake of Pete’s Dragon is unquestionably a better film. After losing both of his parents to a car accident, a young boy named Pete Healy (Oakes Fegley) is adopted by a dragon he names Elliot. Years later, Pete is discovered by Grace Meacham (Bryce Dallas Howard), a forest ranger, and her boyfriend, Jack Magary (Wes Bentley). Jack’s daughter, Natalie (Oona Laurence), is one of the first to bond with Pete. Grace, Jack, and Natalie welcome Pete into their lives, and they stand by him when Elliot is threatened by the locals who believe that he is a monster.
Greyfriars Bobby: The True Story of a Dog (1961)
87m
Genre
Drama, Family
Stars
Donald Crisp, Laurence Naismith, Alex Mackenzie
Directed by
Don Chaffey
Fair warning: If you love dogs, then Greyfriars Bobby may make you cry. Don’t worry about the dog’s safety, it’s just a heart-wrenching tale based upon a real Skye Terrier named Bobby who lived in Scotland in the 19th century. Although the farmhand Auld Jock (Alex Mackenzie) was not Bobby’s owner, the dog was absolutely devoted to him. So much so that Bobby refused to abandon Auld Jock after his death and remained by his grave for years. The graveyard caretaker, James Brown (Donald Crisp), and a restaurant owner named Mr. Traill (Laurence Naismith) both show affection for Bobby. But without a license or an owner, Bobby’s life and freedom are at stake.
Clotilda: Last American Slave Ship (2022)
44m
Genre
Documentary
Stars
Sylviane Diouf, Natalie S. Robertson, Mary Elliott
Directed by
Lisa Feit
National Geographic’s documentary Clotilda: Last American Slave Ship is an important look at a dark chapter in American history. As the title indicates, the Clotilda was a ship that brought slaves to this country in 1860. The owners of the Clotilda attempted to hide their crime by burning the ship and letting it sink. However, the unexpected side effect of their actions has left the Clotilda as the most intact slave ship ever recovered. This documentary also focuses on the descendants of the people who were brought aboard the Clotilda against their will. They made lives for themselves in America and founded Africatown in Alabama.
Bedtime Stories (2008)
99m
Genre
Fantasy, Comedy, Family, Romance
Stars
Adam Sandler, Keri Russell, Guy Pearce
Directed by
Adam Shankman
Adam Sandler movies rarely win over the critics, and Bedtime Stories was no exception. But the younger audience embraced it when it was in theaters. Sandler stars as Skeeter Bronson, a down-on-his-luck man who is tasked by his sister, Wendy (Courteney Cox), to watch her kids for a few nights. Incredibly, Skeeter discovers that whatever bedtime story he makes up for the kids comes true the next day … in some form or another. Skeeter soon figures out how to use this power to romantically pursue Wendy’s friend, Jill Hastings (Keri Russell). But fixing his life and improving his sister’s fortunes is going to take some really tall tales.
Night at the Museum (2006)
108m
Genre
Action, Adventure, Comedy, Family, Fantasy
Stars
Ben Stiller, Robin Williams, Carla Gugino
Directed by
Shawn Levy
All three of the Night At the Museum movies are on Disney+, but the first one is especially charming. Ben Stiller stars as Larry Daley, a perennial loser who gets a chance to become a security guard at the American Museum of Natural History. Much to Larry’s surprise, the exhibits come to life at night, including a model of Theodore Roosevelt (Robin Williams). When Larry brings his son, Nick (Jake Cherry), to see the miracle for himself, they discover a plot to rob the museum of its magic. And it’s up to Larry, Nick, and their new friends to save the day.
The Apple Dumpling Gang (1975)
100m
Genre
Comedy, Family, Western
Stars
Don Knotts, Tim Conway, Harry Morgan
Directed by
Norman Tokar
Some viewers may not take to The Apple Dumpling Gang, since it was a throwback to earlier Disney films even when it came out in 1975. That said, if you and your loved ones have a taste for the classics, then this is about the most family-friendly western that you’re going to find. Theodore Ogelvie (Don Knotts) and Amos Tucker (Tim Conway) are the titular duo, although they call themselves the Hashknife Outfit. They’re bad guys, but never too bad. The duo is simply too inept to rob Russell Donovan (Bill Bixby) and the three orphans in his care. And when their newfound family unit is threatened, the orphans turn to Theodore and Amos for help.
Of Miracles and Men (2015)
103m
Genre
Documentary
Stars
Jeff Daniels
Directed by
Jonathan Hock
Everyone who follows hockey or the Winter Olympics has heard the story of the 1980 U.S. men’s hockey team that upset the Soviet Union’s team of pro players on their way to winning a gold medal. There have been documentaries and even a feature film dramatization about that game. However, the ESPN-produced documentary Of Miracles and Men takes a different approach by focusing on the Soviet Union team that suffered the loss. This film examines who these men were and what happened to them after the game.
Torn (2021)
93m
Genre
Documentary
Stars
Alex Lowe, Max Lowe, Sam Lowe
Directed by
Max Lowe
Torn is a documentary directed by Max Lowe, who turns the camera on himself and his family. Max is the son of Alex Lowe, one of the most famous mountaineers of the ’90s before he perished in a climbing accident. Lowe’s partner, Conrad Anker, survived the accident and eventually married Lowe’s widow, Jennifer. Within the film, Max grapples with his feelings about his father’s death and his occasionally strained relationship with his stepfather as the family comes together to reclaim Alex’s body when it was recovered 16 years later.
Iron Man (2008)
126m
Genre
Action, Science Fiction, Adventure
Stars
Robert Downey Jr., Terrence Howard, Jeff Bridges
Directed by
Jon Favreau
Before Jon Favreau wowed Star Wars fans with The Mandalorian, he helped found the Marvel Cinematic Universe with Iron Man. Unlike many of its MCU brethren, this movie feels a lot more grounded as Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) has an epiphany after getting kidnapped by terrorists in Afghanistan. Instead of selling weapons, Tony decides to create an armored suit unlike anything ever created before under the wary eyes of his employee, Virginia “Pepper” Potts (Gwyneth Paltrow), and his shady business partner, Obadiah Stane (Jeff Bridges). Iron Man set the template for almost every comic book movie that came after it. And it’s now available to stream in its IMAX-enhanced aspect ratio.
Finding Nemo (2003)
100m
Genre
Animation, Family
Stars
Albert Brooks, Ellen DeGeneres, Alexander Gould
Directed by
Andrew Stanton
It’s hard to believe that Finding Nemo has been around for almost 20 years, because Pixar’s animated classic still holds up extremely well. Albert Brooks stars as Marlin, a clownfish who is extremely overprotective of his only surviving son, Nemo (Alexander Gould). When Nemo is captured by humans, Marlin is forced to go on an impossible journey to save him. Along the way, Marlin befriends a regal blue tang named Dory (Ellen DeGeneres) who has some very severe short-term memory issues.
10 Things I Hate About You (1999)
97m
Genre
Comedy, Romance, Drama
Stars
Heath Ledger, Julia Stiles, Joseph Gordon-Levitt
Directed by
Gil Junger
10 Things I Hate About You is essentially a modern retelling of William Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew. But it’s never been quite like this. High school student Cameron James (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) is so eager to date Bianca Stratford (Larisa Oleynik) that he goes to great lengths to get Patrick Verona (Heath Ledger) to date Bianca’s older sister, Katarina “Kat” Stratford (Julia Stiles), in order to circumvent the strict rules laid out by the sisters’ father, Walter Stratford (Larry Miller). But once the couples become close, their secrets threaten to derail their budding romantic feelings.
Never Been Kissed (1999)
107m
Genre
Romance, Comedy, Drama
Stars
Drew Barrymore, David Arquette, Molly Shannon
Directed by
Raja Gosnell
In Never Been Kissed, Drew Barrymore stars as Josie Geller, a 25-year-old newspaper employee who is assigned to go undercover at a local high school as a student. For Josie, it’s a second chance to get the high school experience that she always wanted. However, only the geeky Aldys (Leelee Sobieski) offers Josie real friendship at the school. Josie’s brother, Rob Geller (David Arquette) also gets in on the act, and reinvents himself as a high school baseball player. But as Josie’s assignment nears fruition, she finds herself drawn to her English teacher, Sam Coulson (Michael Vartan).
Journey to the Center of the Earth (1959)
132m
Genre
Adventure, Fantasy, Family
Stars
Pat Boone, James Mason, Arlene Dahl
Directed by
Henry Levin
Journey To the Center of the Earth is one of the classic 20th Century Fox films that now belongs to the Disney library. In this adaptation of the iconic Jules Verne novel, geologist Sir Oliver Lindenbrook (James Mason) and his student, Alec McEwan (Pat Boone), stumble across proof that an Icelandic explorer, Arne Saknussemm, found a passage that leads into the center of the world a few hundred years ago. However, Saknussemm’s descendant, Count Saknussemm (Thayer David), is determined to stop their expedition in its tracks, and he even murders a rival explorer to ensure his place in history. Despite this threat, Oliver and Alec discover untold wonders deep beneath the surface of the Earth.
Bears (2014)
78m
Genre
Documentary
Stars
John C. Reilly
Directed by
Alastair Fothergill, Keith Scholey
Disneynature’s Bears offers an intriguing narrative courtesy of directors Alastair Fothergill and Keith Scholey, with narration by John C. Reilly. The film follows a year in the life of an Alaskan brown bear named Sky, and her cubs, Scout and Amber. It’s a beautifully shot movie that captures the majesty of the Alaskan landscape, as well as the dangers faced by this family of bears. It’s Sky’s mission in life to keep her children safe. But that’s easier said than done.
X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014)
132m
Genre
Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Science Fiction
Stars
Hugh Jackman, James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender
Directed by
Bryan Singer
If the X-Men films had ended here, then they would have gone out on a high note. X-Men: Days of Future Past loosely adapts the comic of the same name and finds a unique way to unite the original X-Men cast with the prequel era cast. In a very dark future for mutants, Professor X (Patrick Stewart) and Magneto (Ian McKellen) send Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) back to 1973 to convince their younger selves, Charles Xavier (James McAvoy) and Erik Lehnsherr (Michael Fassbender), to stop Mystique (Jennifer Lawrence) from killing a man whose death will cause an irreversible wave of anti-mutant hysteria and the creation of the invincible mutant-killing machines called Sentinels.
Ratatouille (2007)
111m
Genre
Animation, Comedy, Family, Fantasy
Stars
Patton Oswalt, Ian Holm, Lou Romano
Directed by
Brad Bird
It may sound hard to believe now, but some Hollywood observers really believed that Ratatouille would be Pixar’s first flop. Instead, this beautifully made film is a real charmer thanks to a winning performance by Patton Oswalt as Remy, a rat with a passion for cooking and food. Remy is so enamored with the late chef, Auguste Gusteau (Brad Garrett), that he wants to be a professional cook. Remy soon finds a human partner, Alfredo Linguini (Lou Romano), an employee at Gusteau’s restaurant with no talent for cooking. But with Remy’s direction, they can create magic with food.
Newsies (1992)
121m
Genre
Family, Drama, History, Music
Stars
Christian Bale, Bill Pullman, Ann-Margret
Directed by
Kenny Ortega
A young Christian Bale has a leading role in Disney’s Newsies, a turn of the century period musical that became a hit Broadway show. Jack “Cowboy” Kelly (Bale) is one of the top newspaper delivery boys in New York. And after taking David (David Moscow) and Les Jacobs (Luke Edwards) under his wing, the Newsies find themselves stuck between two media moguls, William Randolph Hearst and New York World publisher Joseph Pulitzer (Robert Duvall). When the Newsies go on strike over Pulitzer’s actions, he utilizes underhanded tactics to break them and end the strike.
Miracle Landing on the Hudson (2014)
90m
Genre
Documentary
Stars
Kate Steavenson-Payne, Sara Stewart, Matthew Douglas
Directed by
George Simon
Have you ever heard of the Miracle on the Hudson? In 2009, US Airways Flight 1549 struck a flock of birds during takeoff and lost all power. Pilots Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger and Jeffrey Skiles successfully landed the plane on the Hudson River without losing any of the crew or passengers. Miracle Landing on the Hudson features intimate interviews with the passengers and crew that bring new details about that incident to the surface. And the story of the crash was just the beginning of the full story.
The Peanuts Movie (2015)
88m
Genre
Adventure, Comedy, Animation, Family
Stars
Noah Schnapp, Bill Melendez, Marleik 'Mar Mar' Walker
Directed by
Steve Martino
The Peanuts Movie is now in the Disney+ catalog thanks to the magic of corporate mergers. But it’s a welcome addition to the roster, and a wonderful adaptation of Charles Schulz’s comic strip. It’s also a more modern take on Charlie Brown (Noah Schnapp) and his friends, and it follows his personal quest to be more confident so he can impress his crush, the Little Red-Haired Girl (Francesca Angelucci Capaldi). Charlie even has flashes of brilliance that come crashing down thanks to his signature bad luck. And yet Charlie’s persistence is a very admirable quality, and it’s something his friends finally notice.
The Journey of Natty Gann (1985)
101m
Genre
Adventure, Family, Drama
Stars
Meredith Salenger, John Cusack, Ray Wise
Directed by
Jeremy Kagan
Disney may be best known for its animated films, but it’s live-action films are also timeless family entertainment. The Journey of Natty Gann was one of Disney’s mid-80s flicks that pushed beyond the boundaries of its traditional stories. During the Great Depression, Natty Gann (Meredith Salenger) goes on a perilous cross-country trip to reunite with her father, Sol Gann (Ray Wise). Along the way, Natty befriends a wolfdog she calls Wolf, and she’s tempted by a potential romance with Harry (John Cusack). But Natty’s resolve to reunite with her father is unshakable in the face of adversity.
Adventure Thru the Walt Disney Archives (2020)
60m
Genre
Documentary
Stars
Kathryn Beaumont, Becky Cline, Pete Docter
Directed by
John Gleim
Although Walt Disney Pictures has been around for almost a century, the Walt Disney Archives wasn’t created to preserve Disney’s history until just over 50 years ago. Adventure Thru the Walt Disney Archives is a documentary film that offers viewers a rare glimpse of the treasures contained in the archives. Although this movie was originally released for D23 members, every subscriber on Disney+ can now enjoy producer Don Hahn’s walk down Disney’s memory lane with an assortment of Disney legends who share their thoughts about the company’s legacy.
While You Were Sleeping (1995)
103m
Genre
Romance, Comedy
Stars
Sandra Bullock, Bill Pullman, Peter Gallagher
Directed by
Jon Turteltaub
In While You Were Sleeping, Sandra Bullock stars as Lucy Eleanor Moderatz, a lonely transit worker who pines for a frequent commuter, Peter Callaghan (Peter Gallagher). After Lucy saves Peter’s life, he falls into a coma. Thanks to a misunderstanding, a nurse at the hospital introduces Lucy to Peter’s family as his fiancée. Lucy can’t bring herself to tell Peter’s family the truth, especially after she comes to love them. Only Pete’s brother, Jack Callaghan (Bill Pullman), is suspicious about Lucy’s story. But as they spend time together, Lucy and Jack develop their own romantic feelings for each other.
Eternals (2021)
156m
Genre
Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Science Fiction
Stars
Gemma Chan, Richard Madden, Angelina Jolie
Directed by
Chloé Zhao
Marvel took a big swing for the fences by signing director Chloé Zhao to bring Eternals to the big screen. At the behest of the god-like Celestials, Ajak (Salma Hayek) leads her seemingly immortal team to protect the Earth against the Deviants for centuries. In the present day, former lovers Sersi (Gemma Chan) and Ikaris (Richard Madden) reunite after learning that the Celestials plan to destroy Earth in seven days. To save the world, the remaining Eternals must once again come together. But not everyone is on the same page, and the Eternals’ ancient foes, the Deviants, have also returned.
Catch That Kid (2004)
92m
Genre
Family, Action, Adventure
Stars
Kristen Stewart, Max Thieriot, Corbin Bleu
Directed by
Bart Freundlich
Kristen Stewart is on the short-list for Best Actress nominations this year, but one of her earliest films has just hit Disney+. In Catch That Kid, Stewart plays Madeline Rose “Maddy” Phillips, a 12-year-old girl and an amazing climber who decides to rob a bank. In her defense, Maddy has a good reason to turn to crime. Her father, Tom Phillips (Sam Robards), has been seriously injured in a climbing accident, and only an astronomically expensive operation can save him from a life of paralysis. To pull off her heist, Maddy recruits her friends, Gus (Max Thieriot) and Austin (Corbin Bleu). But Maddy may have gone too far when she separately declared her love for both Gus and Austin in order to convince them to join her.
Aliens of the Deep (2005)
95m
Genre
Documentary
Stars
Anatoly M. Sagalevitch, Pamela Conrad, James Cameron
Directed by
James Cameron, Steven Quale
There are places in this world that humanity would never see if technology hadn’t given us the opportunity. Acclaimed director James Cameron is our guide to these places in the documentary Aliens of the Deep, which he co-directed with Steven Quale. In this film, Cameron is a passenger on a Russian research vessel with American biologists and NASA scientists. While that may sound odd, consider that the harsh environments of the ocean depths may give us a glimpse of what life on other worlds is like. The creatures that live in these places are like nothing you’ve seen before, and they’re the closest things we have to aliens on Earth.
Wreck-It Ralph (2012)
101m
Genre
Family, Animation, Comedy, Adventure
Stars
John C. Reilly, Sarah Silverman, Jack McBrayer
Directed by
Rich Moore
John C. Reilly stars in Wreck-It Ralph as a video game villain in Fix-It Felix Jr. who has soured on his lot in life. Ralph is tired of being the misunderstood bad guy and desperately wants to be respected by the other characters. That’s why Ralph abandons his video game, leaving chaos in his wake as he searches for validation. Along the way, Ralph befriends Vanellope von Schweetz (Sarah Silverman), a glitching character in her own game. Felix (Jack McBrayer) aligns himself with Sergeant Tamora Jean Calhoun (Jane Lynch) to retrieve Ralph, because his actions may have grave consequences for the entire arcade.
X-Men: First Class (2011)
132m
Genre
Action, Science Fiction, Adventure
Stars
James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Jennifer Lawrence
Directed by
Matthew Vaughn
Director Matthew Vaughn only had a short time to put X-Men: First Class together and shoot it, but that may be one of the reasons it’s among the best of the X-Men films. In this soft reboot for the series, James McAvoy stars as Charles Xavier with Michael Fassbender as Erik Lehnsherr, the man destined to become Magneto. The friendship and partnership of Charles and Erik is established in the ‘60s as they form the X-Men together with a young Jennifer Lawrence as Mystique, a mutant shapeshifter whose ideology is split between them. When it comes to emotions, this film goes for the throat.
The Sandlot (1993)
101m
Genre
Family, Comedy
Stars
Tom Guiry, Mike Vitar, James Earl Jones
Directed by
David M. Evans
The Sandlot was one of the first movies offered on Disney+, but it was removed for byzantine business reasons that we don’t fully understand. Regardless, this beloved coming of age story is back where it belongs. In the early ‘60s, Scott Smalls (Tom Guiry) struggles to fit in with the local boys and their baseball team. The team’s star player, Benjamin “Benny” Franklin Rodriguez (Mike Vitar) takes Scott under his wing and helps him make new friends. While Scott finds himself as a member of the team, he also loses an invaluable autographed baseball into a neighbor’s yard. And Scott will do anything to get it back.
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days (2012)
94m
Genre
Comedy, Family
Stars
Zachary Gordon, Steve Zahn, Devon Bostick
Directed by
David Bowers
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days is the last of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid films to feature the original cast, and it’s another critical moment in the childhood of Greg Heffley (Zachary Gordon). Much to Greg’s alarm, his father, Frank Heffley (Steve Zahn), plans to send him to military school at the end of the summer. Greg also compounds the situation by lying to father about landing a summer job at a resort. Greg’s best friend, Rowley Jefferson (Robert Capron), helps him get into the resort. However, Greg’s tendency to screw up alienates the entire Jefferson family, and badly damages his relationship with his dad.
A Spark Story (2021)
87m
Genre
Documentary
Stars
Pete Docter, Louis Gonzales, Aphton Corbin
Directed by
Jason Sterman, Leanne Dare
Pixar is responsible for several of the best animated films in the last three decades. But A Spark Story is about the next generation of Pixar filmmakers. In this case, the subjects are Aphton Corbin and Louis Gonzales, the directors behind the short animated films, Twenty Something and Nona. Corbin and Gonzales share some insight into their lives and their personalities, and how that informs the work that they bring to the screen for Pixar. It’s also another fascinating look behind-the-scenes at Pixar itself.
Cruella (2021)
134m
Genre
Comedy, Crime
Stars
Emma Stone, Emma Thompson, Joel Fry
Directed by
Craig Gillespie
Cruella de Vil is the deliciously evil villain of The Hundred and One Dalmatians, or the animated and live-action 101 Dalmatians if you’re a Disney fan. The new prequel movie, Cruella, puts Oscar-winning actress Emma Stone as the main character and gives her some human touches in her backstory. In the ‘70s, Estella (Stone) is a thief with an undeniable talent for fashion. At first, Estella’s fashion mentorship under Baroness von Hellman (Emma Thompson) is a dream come true. But when Estella learns the truth about the Baroness, she reinvents herself as Cruella and becomes a force to be reckoned with.
The Book of Life (2014)
95m
Genre
Animation, Adventure, Comedy, Family, Fantasy
Stars
Diego Luna, Channing Tatum, Zoe Saldana
Directed by
Jorge R. Gutierrez
Producer Guillermo del Toro teamed up with writer and director Jorge R. Gutierrez for The Book of Life, a decidedly un-Disney-like animated film that has a bit in common with Pixar’s Coco. In the film, Manolo Sánchez (Diego Luna), his one true love, María Posada (Zoe Saldana), and Manolo’s rival, Joaquín Mondragon Jr. (Channing Tatum), unwittingly find themselves the subject of a cosmic bet that may reshape the afterlife. But when Manolo believes that Maria has been killed, he mistakenly allows his own life to be taken. Now trapped in the Land of the Remembered, Manolo must find a way back to Maria before it’s too late.
The Rescue (2021)
107m
Genre
Documentary, Thriller
Stars
Jim Warny, Thanet Natisri, John Volanthen
Directed by
Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi, Jimmy Chin
If you watched the news in 2018, then you may have an idea how The Rescue ends. This National Geographic documentary follows the Tham Luang cave rescue in Thailand. A football (soccer) coach and his team of children accidentally become trapped in an underwater cave as they waited to be rescued. The film focuses almost exclusively on the divers who had to find a way to save the children amidst an intense media barrage.
How to Build a Better Boy (2014)
90m
Genre
Family, Science Fiction, TV Movie
Stars
China Anne McClain, Kelli Berglund, Marshall Williams
Directed by
Paul Hoen
How To Build a Better Boy is kind of a Weird Science for a new generation. Two high school students, Gabby Harrison (China Anne McClain) and Mae Hartley (Kelli Berglund), inadvertently break the laws of nature so that Mae can have a date for the prom. Their creation is Albert Banks (Marshall Williams), an attentive boyfriend who sweeps Mae off of her feet. However, the girls have no idea that Albert is actually X-17, an artificial super soldier developed by Mae’s father, Dr. James Hartley (Roger Bart). All Mae wants to do is have a perfect prom with Albert, but the army is already there to take him back into custody at any moment.
Encanto (2021)
102m
Genre
Animation, Comedy, Family, Fantasy
Stars
Stephanie Beatriz, María Cecilia Botero, John Leguizamo
Directed by
Byron Howard, Jared Bush
Following up on the success of Moana, Disney and songwriter Lin-Manuel Miranda have once again made beautiful music together in Encanto. This also happens to be the 60th animated film produced by Disney Pictures. Within the film, a Colombian family, the Madrigals, are blessed with unique magical powers that make them the protectors of their small town. However, Mirabel Madrigal (Stephanie Beatriz) isn’t like the other members of her family. She doesn’t have any magical ability of her own, and she is painfully ordinary. Yet when the magic powering her family is threatened, Mirabel may be the only one who can save them all.
Godmothered (2020)
113m
Genre
Family, Fantasy, Comedy
Stars
Jillian Bell, Isla Fisher, Santiago Cabrera
Directed by
Sharon Maguire
Jillian Bell stars in Godmothered as Eleanor, a fairy godmother-in-training. Eleanor is very committed to her calling even though she isn’t very good at it. She is also moved by a letter from Mackenzie (Erica Parks), a 10-year-old girl who needs help. Eleanor travels to Earth to put Mackenzie on the right path, only to discover that she’s 30 years too late. Mackenzie (Isla Fisher) is now a widowed mother of two daughters, Paula (Mary Elizabeth Ellis) and Jane (Jillian Shea Spaeder). Regardless, Eleanor still believes that she can help Mackenzie get her life in order, even though she only has a limited time to do so.
Ron's Gone Wrong (2021)
106m
Genre
Animation, Science Fiction, Family, Comedy
Stars
Zach Galifianakis, Jack Dylan Grazer, Ed Helms
Directed by
Sarah Smith, Jean-Philippe Vine
If the box office numbers are any indication, the vast majority of people did not see Ron’s Gone Wrong when it was in theaters. But this movie’s disappointing box office is your gain, since it plays like a Disney+ original animated film with a lot of heart. Shazam!’s Jack Dylan Grazer stars as Barney Pudowski, a lonely boy in a future where many of his former friends have robot companions instead of human pals. Barney’s life is changed when his parents bring him Ron (Zach Galifianakis), a malfunctioning B-bot who goes beyond the scope of his programming to help Barney. But when Ron’s makers at the Bubble Company learn about his malfunctions, they decide to get him back at any cost.
Lady and the Tramp (2019)
111m
Genre
Family, Romance, Comedy
Stars
Tessa Thompson, Justin Theroux, Kiersey Clemons
Directed by
Charlie Bean
The live-action and animated remake of Lady and the Tramp was also among the first Disney+ original films, and a very appropriate choice for the holiday season. Tessa Thompson stars as the voice of Lady, a Cocker Spaniel who is given to Darling (Kiersey Clemons) by her husband, Jim Dear (Thomas Mann). Justin Theroux’s Tramp is a street-wise Schnauzer who warns Lady that Jim and Darling will neglect her when their new child is born. When an unfortunate misunderstanding sends Lady on the run, she forms a strong emotional bond with Tramp. But can their budding romance survive the lure of the streets or the love Lady retains for her owners?
Tron: Legacy (2010)
125m
Genre
Adventure, Action, Science Fiction
Stars
Garrett Hedlund, Jeff Bridges, Olivia Wilde
Directed by
Joseph Kosinski
The original Tron was a cult classic, and the sequel, Tron: Legacy, has also taken about a decade to find its audience. Now that it’s finally back on Disney+, viewers can reenter the Grid. Decades after Kevin Flynn (Jeff Bridges) disappeared into the machine world, his son, Samuel “Sam” Flynn (Garrett Hedlund), finds his way in. However, the Grid is now ruled by Clu (Bridges), a doppelganger who looks just like Sam’s father. Original Tron star Bruce Boxleitner also returns as Alan Brady and his program counterpart, Tron. But much like the Grid itself, Tron has undergone a few startling changes.
Million Dollar Arm (2014)
124m
Genre
Drama
Stars
Jon Hamm, Bill Paxton, Lake Bell
Directed by
Craig Gillespie
Disney’s Million Dollar Arm is a sports bio-film based on a true story. Mad Men star Jon Hamm headlines the film as J. B. Bernstein, a sports agent who is desperate for a way to revitalize his business. He eventually settles on running a Million Dollar Arm contest in India to find potential baseball pitching prospects. Amazingly, J.B.’s team discovers Rinku Singh (Suraj Sharma) and Dinesh Patel (Madhur Mittal), but they need a lot of work with pitching coach Tom House (Bill Paxton). And when Rinku and Dinesh come to the United States, they find themselves with a severe case of culture shock.
Diary of a Wimpy Kid (2021)
58m
Genre
Animation, Comedy, Family
Stars
Brady Noon, Ethan William Childress, Chris Diamantopoulos
Directed by
Swinton O. Scott III
After four live-action films, cartoonist Jeff Kinney’s Diary of a Wimpy Kid graphic novels are getting an animated reboot as a Disney+ original movie. This newly released film once again starts at the beginning of Greg Heffley’s time in middle school. Greg’s got a lot of ambition for a kid, and he wants to be the most popular guy in his class. He’s also somewhat jealous of his best friend, Rowley Jefferson, whose fortunes rise as Greg’s fall. Greg has a lot to learn about what’s important and whether his ambitions are worth jeopardizing his friendship with Rowley.
Edward Scissorhands (1990)
105m
Genre
Fantasy, Drama, Romance
Stars
Johnny Depp, Winona Ryder, Dianne Wiest
Directed by
Tim Burton
Tim Burton’s darkly weird film, Edward Scissorhands, is now on Disney+. Johnny Depp stars as Edward Scissorhands, the unfinished creation of an eccentric inventor (Vincent Price). While the Inventor loves Edward, he gave him scissors for hands. When the Inventor passes away, Peg Boggs (Dianne Wiest) finds Edward and takes him in. Edward soon falls for Peg’s daughter, Kim (Winona Ryder), and gets a measure of acceptance from the town. However, Kim’s jealous boyfriend, Jim (Anthony Michael Hall), and others turn most of the town against him.
Ice Age (2002)
81m
Genre
Animation, Comedy, Family, Adventure
Stars
Ray Romano, John Leguizamo, Denis Leary
Directed by
Chris Wedge
While a few of the later Ice Age sequels are already on Disney+, the original film has finally made its way here. In this story, a wooly mammoth, Manny (Ray Romano), reluctantly makes a new friend in Sid the Sloth (John Leguizamo). After encountering a human infant named Roshan, a sabertooth tiger named Diego (Denis Leary) offers to help them return the baby to his parents. What they don’t know is that Diego’s pack leader, Soto (Goran Višnjić), has directed Diego to lead them into an ambush so he can eat Roshan. But as he travels with Manny and Sid, Diego feels a true kinship with them and questions his choices.
Mr. Popper's Penguins (2011)
94m
Genre
Comedy, Family
Stars
Jim Carrey, Carla Gugino, Madeline Carroll
Directed by
Mark Waters
There aren’t a lot of Jim Carrey films suitable for a younger audience, but Mr. Popper’s Penguins certainly fits the bill. Carrey stars as Tom Popper Jr., the son of a famous explorer and conservationist. Following the death of Tom’s father, he finds himself in the custody of five penguins: Captain, Loudy, Bitey, Stinky, Lovey, and Nimrod. While Tom has difficulty caring for the penguins, it brings him closer to his children, Jane (Madeline Carroll) and Billy (Maxwell Perry Cotton), as well as his ex-wife, Amanda Popper (Carla Gugino). With the help of his family, Tom finally realizes why received the penguins and what he has to do next.
The Pixar Story (2007)
87m
Genre
Documentary
Stars
Stacy Keach, John Lasseter, Brad Bird
Directed by
Leslie Iwerks
Until now, the only consistent way to watch The Pixar Story was as a special feature on WALL-E’s Blu-ray, or through a rival streaming service. Now, Leslie Iwerks’ acclaimed documentary has come home, and it’s an illuminating look at how Pixar rose from obscurity to transform the face of animation by outdoing Disney at its own game. The film chronicles Pixar’s early struggles as Steve Jobs, John Lasseter, and many others fought to keep the dream of 3D animation alive. Following the success of Toy Story, Pixar has become a cornerstone of Disney itself. This may not be a “warts and all” doc, but it is very entertaining and informative.
Becoming Cousteau (2021)
93m
Genre
Documentary
Stars
Jacques-Yves Cousteau, Vincent Cassel
Directed by
Liz Garbus
You may have heard of Jacques Cousteau and his environmental crusade to preserve the oceans, but the documentary Becoming Cousteau sheds new light on the man himself. Cousteau was an accomplished explorer, filmmaker, conservationist, and celebrity scientist. He even hosted his own TV show, The Undersea World of Jacques Cousteau. While Becoming Cousteau champions the cause of its subject, it doesn’t shy away from Cousteau’s personal failings when it comes to his family. By his own admission, Cousteau’s love for his family was secondary to his love for the sea. But that doesn’t diminish the importance of his environmental message, which still resonates decades after his death.
Digital Trends streaming roundup
Folklore: The Long Pond Studio Sessions (2020)
106m
Genre
Music, Documentary
Stars
Taylor Swift, Jack Antonoff, Aaron Dessner
Directed by
Taylor Swift
In the modern era of music superstars, Taylor Swift is in a category all by herself. The singer made her directorial debut with Folklore: The Long Pond Studio Sessions, a documentary film that was shot at Long Pond Studio. While Swift performs every single song on her albu, Folklore, the singer/songwriter also takes the time to explain the meaning and inspiration behind each track. It’s an intimate look at Swift and her music, as well as compelling viewing in its own right.
Enchanted (2007)
107m
Genre
Comedy, Family, Fantasy, Romance
Stars
Amy Adams, Patrick Dempsey, James Marsden
Directed by
Kevin Lima
The mid-2000s were a bit of a rough patch for Disney, but Enchanted blew into theaters like a magical breath of fresh air. Amy Adams is ridiculously charming as Giselle, an animated princess who is banished by the evil Queen Narissa (Susan Sarandon) into the “real” New York City. Divorce attorney Robert Philip (Patrick Dempsey) reluctantly takes Giselle in at the insistence of his daughter, Morgan (Rachel Covey), and Giselle’s relentlessly positive outlook brightens the lives of their family. Meanwhile, Giselle’s fiance, Prince Edward (James Marsden), journeys to New York to find her, while Narissa plots to destroy them both.
Up (2009)
96m
Genre
Animation, Comedy, Family, Adventure
Stars
Ed Asner, Christopher Plummer, Jordan Nagai
Directed by
Pete Docter
Get some tissues ready. The first few minutes of Pixar’s Up are some of the most emotional animated scenes ever put to cinema. And that is neither a joke nor an exaggeration. Following that harrowing opening sequence, Carl Fredricksen (Ed Asner) decides to fulfill a promise to his late wife by transforming their house into a balloon airship and taking it down to South America. Unfortunately for Carl, a young boy named Russell (Jordan Nagai) has accidentally stowed away. Once the unlikely pair arrive, they meet a talking dog named Dug (Bob Peterson) before they have an unsettling encounter with the legendary explorer, Charles Muntz (Christopher Plummer).
Built for Mars: The Perseverance Rover (2021)
Genre
Documentary
Stars
Steve French
Directed by
Mark Davis
You may not know Perseverance by name, but the image of the Mars rover is unmistakable. National Geographic’s documentary, Built for Mars: The Perseverance Rover, throws back the curtain on the next generation of Mars rovers by following its construction at Jet Propulsion Laboratory and its subsequent journey and successful landing on Mars. This film explains the goal of the Martian mission, and offers viewers a greater understanding of the science behind this deceptively simple-looking creation.
Dan in Real Life (2007)
98m
Genre
Comedy, Romance, Drama
Stars
Steve Carell, Juliette Binoche, Dane Cook
Directed by
Peter Hedges
Yes, Dan In Real Life is an actual Disney movie, and not even one of the new additions from 20th Century Studios. It may seem like an unlikely fit for Disney+’s demo, but it does ultimately work as a slightly more mature comedy than many of the other films on this streaming service. Dan Burns (Steve Carell) is a successful advice columnist, and yet his own life is in shambles even years after the death of his wife. While accompanying his three daughters to an extended family gathering, Dan meets Marie Diamond (Juliette Binoche), a woman who reignites romantic feelings in his heart. And the feeling is mutual. Unfortunately, Marie is already dating Dan’s younger brother, Mitch Burns (Dane Cook).
Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021)
132m
Genre
Action, Adventure, Fantasy
Stars
Simu Liu, Tony Leung Chiu-wai, Awkwafina
Directed by
Destin Daniel Cretton
Thanks to Disney+ on November 12, Day, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings is skipping the Premier Access stage and is now available to all Disney+ subscribers. Simu Liu stars Xu Shang-Chi, a young man who ran away from his father, Xu Wenwu (Tony Leung Chiu-wai), to avoid becoming an assassin. While living in San Francisco and sharing misadventures with his friend, Katy (Awkwafina), Shang-Chi’s past is exposed. To unravel his father’s plans, Shang-Chi reunites with his estranged sister, Xu Xialing (Meng’er Zhang), and takes on the Ten Rings organization.
Jungle Cruise (2021)
127m
Genre
Adventure, Fantasy, Comedy, Action
Stars
Dwayne Johnson, Emily Blunt, Edgar Ramírez
Directed by
Jaume Collet-Serra
Jungle Cruise is far from the first movie to take its inspiration from a classic Disneyland theme park ride. However, it is one of the best, thanks to the terrific chemistry between Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt. In 1916, Dr. Lily Houghton (Blunt) and her brother, MacGregor Houghton (Jack Whitehall), hire a riverboat captain, Frank Wolff (Johnson), to take them on a dangerous expedition to find the legendary Tree of Life. Centuries ago, Spanish conquistadors attempted to steal the tree for themselves before suffering a terrible curse. As Frank leads the Houghton siblings through the jungle, they discover that the curse is all too real.
Wolfgang (2021)
78m
Genre
Documentary
Stars
Wolfgang Puck
Directed by
David Gelb
You may have heard the name Wolfgang Puck, but how much do you really know about this extraordinary celebrity chef? Documentarian David Gelb helmed Wolfgang, a look back at Puck’s life, from learning how to cook from his mother to his rise to prominence. Puck and many of the people in his life share their thoughts about his history. In particular, the film chronicles Puck’s first brush with fame as head chef of Ma Maison, before he opened up his iconic restaurant, Spago, in Beverly Hills. But Puck’s life of fame and fortune didn’t come without a cost, and he openly discusses the price that he paid.
Bears (2014)
78m
Genre
Documentary
Stars
John C. Reilly
Directed by
Alastair Fothergill, Keith Scholey
Before Disney acquired National Geographic, the studio’s primary documentary studio was Disneynature. In 2014, Disneynature’s Bears chronicled a year in the life of Sky, an Alaskan brown bear who tries to raise her two cubs, Scout and Amber. This family of bears faces constant challenges from both the environment, very unfriendly male bears, and even a wolf that seems eager to make a meal out of the cubs. Sky’s devotion to her children is a very relatable quality, and she really goes through a lot over the course of this film. It’s a remarkable cinematic journey, and a worthy documentary as well.
X-Men: First Class (2011)
132m
Genre
Action, Science Fiction, Adventure
Stars
James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Jennifer Lawrence
Directed by
Matthew Vaughn
One of the best X-Men movies is finally on Disney+. X-Men: First Class was a soft reboot of the original trilogy that sets the action back in the 1960s, with James McAvoy as Charles Xavier and Michael Fassbender as Erik Lehnsherr/Magneto. The film gets a lot out of Fassbender’s performance as Erik hunts down the Nazis who exterminated his family. At the top of Erik’s hit list is former Nazi scientist turned Hellfire Club member Sebastian Shaw (Kevin Bacon). A pre-superstardom Jennifer Lawrence stars as Raven/Mystique, a young woman whose ideology is torn between Charles’ dreams of peaceful relations with humanity and Erik’s push for mutant supremacy.
McFarland, USA (2015)
128m
Genre
Drama
Stars
Kevin Costner, Ramiro Rodriguez, Maria Bello
Directed by
Niki Caro
In McFarland, USA, Kevin Costner portrays Jim White, a real-life football coach who founded a track team at McFarland High School in the late 1980s. Jim and his wife, Cheryl (Maria Bello), initially have trouble fitting into the largely Latino town of McFarland, California. However, Jim soon finds his calling by coaching Thomas Valles (Carlos Pratts), Jose Cardenas (Johnny Ortiz), Johnny Sameniego (Hector Duran), Victor Puentes (Sergio Avelar), and the three Diaz brothers. Through rigorous training, the track team becomes a contender. However, Jim’s commitment to McFarland comes into question when his daughter, Jamie (Elsie Fisher), is attacked.
Howard (2018)
93m
Genre
Documentary, Music
Stars
Howard Ashman, Jeffrey Katzenberg, Alan Menken
Directed by
Don Hahn
If you loved Disney’s animated films in the early 1990s, then you loved the work of Howard Ashman. Before his untimely death from AIDS in 1991 at age 40, Ashman and his composing partner, Alan Menken, created magic together with the music and lyrics for The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, and Aladdin. Documentary filmmaker Don Hahn’s Howard is a moving look back at Ashman’s life from the people who knew and loved him. Ashman’s life was relatively short, but his musical legacy will live on forever through his films.
Happier Than Ever: A Love Letter to Los Angeles (2021)
65m
Genre
Documentary, Music, Animation
Stars
Billie Eilish, Gustavo Dudamel, Los Angeles Philharmonic
Directed by
Robert Rodriguez, Patrick Osborne
Billie Eilish is a Grammy winner and one of the top singers in the world. But she’s not an obvious choice to headline her own concert movie on Disney+. And yet Happier than Ever: A Love Letter to Los Angeles fits Disney like a glove, with animated sequences of Eilish placed between a live Hollywood Bowl performance of her album Happier Than Ever. An unlikely duo directed this concert: Robert Rodriguez and Patrick Osborne. Some of the language of Eilish’s songs is toned down for the film, but the mature themes remain. She’s a superstar, and this is her showcase.
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
76m
Genre
Fantasy, Animation, Family
Stars
Chris Sarandon, Danny Elfman, Catherine O'Hara
Directed by
Henry Selick
With Halloween this weekend and Christmas right around the corner, it’s the perfect time to revisit Disney’s stop-motion masterpiece, The Nightmare Before Christmas. This was Tim Burton’s passion project when he was a Disney animator, and his success as a live-action director revived its prospects years later. Director Henry Selick adapted Burton’s tale for the screen, as Halloween Town resident Jack Skellington (Chris Sarandon) discovers that there are other holidays with realms of their own. Jack is so enthralled by “Sandy Claws” and Christmas that he enlists the residents of Halloween Town to help him take over the holiday. Musical mayhem ensues when Jack’s idea of Christmas horrifies the human world.
The Avengers (2012)
143m
Genre
Science Fiction, Action, Adventure
Stars
Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo
Directed by
Joss Whedon
It’s not an exaggeration to say that The Avengers changed the game for superhero movies. Marvel Studios’ first-ever team-up film brought together Iron Man (Robert Downey, Jr.), Captain America (Chris Evans), Thor (Chris Hemsworth), Hulk (Mark Ruffalo), Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson), and Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner) together under the watchful eye of Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson) to take on Thor’s estranged brother, Loki (Tom Hiddleston). The heroes’ frequent personality clashes are even more engaging than the fights. Regardless, the climactic Battle of New York features the heroes at their best as they take on an alien invasion. It’s almost a perfect superhero film, even though it was upstaged by its sequels.
The Greatest Showman (2017)
105m
Genre
Drama
Stars
Hugh Jackman, Zac Efron, Michelle Williams
Directed by
Michael Gracey
Hugh Jackman stars as P.T. Barnum in this musically reimagined tale about the origins of the Barnum & Bailey Circus. Bailey isn’t here yet, so the spotlight is all literally on Barnum (Hugh Jackman) as he pursues his vision of birthing the greatest show the world has ever seen. The Greatest Showman is far from biographical, skirting over some of the more controversial aspects of Barnum’s life and pursuit of glory, but it’s a fun, energetic musical that will get the whole family dancing.
Muppets Haunted Mansion (2021)
52m
Genre
Comedy, Family, TV Movie
Stars
Dave Goelz, Bill Barretta, Matt Vogel
Directed by
Kirk R. Thatcher
When Gonzo and Pepe skip the Muppets’ annual Halloween party in order to accept a challenge to stay the night in a haunted mansion, spooky stuff and hijinks ensue — along with plenty of celebrity cameos. The laughs-to-scares ratio of this feature is firmly in favor of the funny moments, and both kids and adults alike will find plenty to enjoy in the latest project featuring Jim Henson’s beloved creations. Along with appearances by the entire Muppets gang, the story also brings in Will Arnett, Yvette Nicole Brown, Darren Criss, Taraji P. Henson, John Stamos, Alfonso Ribeiro, Craig Robinson, and other familiar faces — including one of the final on-screen roles for the late, great Ed Asner.
Tron (1982)
96m
Genre
Science Fiction, Action, Adventure
Stars
Jeff Bridges, Bruce Boxleitner, David Warner
Directed by
Steven Lisberger
Its visual effects don’t exactly hold compared to sci-fi movies today, but when TRON hit theaters in 1982, there was nothing that looked even remotely like it. The story of a software programmer who’s transported inside the mainframe of a massive computer and must find his way out of the digital world he inhabits, TRON prompted writer and director Steven Lisberger to create an entirely new type of studio dedicated to blending computer animation and live-action acting in a single feature — something that was so unusual at the time that even the Motion Picture Academy of America wasn’t sure how to classify the film initially. Jeff Bridges and Bruce Boxleitner starred in the film, which went on to become a cult hit and inspire a sprawling franchise of video games, comic books, and animated spinoffs, as well as a 2010 live-action sequel.
Cool Runnings (1993)
98m
Genre
Comedy, Sports
Stars
Leon, Doug E. Doug, Rawle D. Lewis
Directed by
Jon Turteltaub
This sports comedy was loosely inspired by the true story of the Jamaican national bobsled team, which made its debut during the 1988 Winter Olympics and offered up one of the event’s most popular and enduring underdog stories. In one of his last roles before his death, actor John Candy plays a disgraced former bobsled champion who’s recruited to coach the aspiring team — a team composed of sprinters who missed their shot at qualifying for the Summer Olympics due to an accident that occurred in a qualifying race. Leon Robinson, Doug E. Doug, Rawle D. Lewis, and Malik Yoba play the teammates who need to overcome their own differences and the prejudices of the sport’s governing body to realize their Olympic dreams.
Black Widow (2021)
134m
Genre
Action, Adventure
Stars
Scarlett Johansson, Florence Pugh, David Harbour, Rachel Weisz
Directed by
Cate Shortland
After more than a year without a Marvel movie, Black Widow brings the Marvel Cinematic Universe back to the big screen and — thanks to the uncertainty of theatrical releases during the pandemic — also to streaming audiences on Disney+. The prequel film features Scarlett Johansson as superhero secret agent Black Widow and is set between the events of Captain America: Civil War and Avengers: Infinity War. On the run after the events of Civil War, Natasha Romanoff (Johansson) is forced to confront her mysterious past and the relationships she left behind when she fled the organization that trained her. Johansson is joined in the cast by Florence Pugh, David Harbour, William Hurt, Ray Winstone, and Rachel Weisz.
A Goofy Movie (1995)
78m
Genre
Romance, Animation, Family, Comedy, Adventure
Stars
Bill Farmer, Jason Marsden, Rob Paulsen
Directed by
Kevin Lima
Included on this list almost entirely based on its nostalgic appeal, Disney’s ’90s animated film about the relationship between Goofy and his son, Max, is a touchstone film for an entire generation. The silly story follows Goofy’s attempts to connect with his teenage son on a fishing trip that — as with most things Goofy does — devolves into chaos almost from the start. Although it didn’t do particularly well at the box office or among critics, A Goofy Movie developed a massive following among kids of the late ’80s and early ’90s, and prompted no small amount of excitement when it was announced as part of the Disney+ launch-day library.
Zootopia (2016)
109m
Genre
Animation, Adventure, Family, Comedy
Stars
Jason Bateman, Ginnifer Goodwin, Idris Elba
Directed by
Byron Howard, Rich Moore
Zootopia is the New York City of animals and, as with any city, there are all kinds of politics, crime, and shenanigans afoot. When Judy Hopps becomes the first bunny on the police force, she’s determined to make a name for herself and overcome the doubts of her peers. When predators begin mysteriously disappearing and the police dismiss the case’s legitimacy, Judy jumps at the chance to prove herself, even without the backing of the force. Unfortunately, that means teaming up with two-bit, scam-artist fox Nick Wilde. To their surprise, however, they prove to be a great team, developing a strong friendship while uncovering a massive conspiracy that goes right to the very top. More provocative and polemical than your typical Disney movie, Zootopia is great fun for youngsters and thought-provoking for their parents.
Queen of Katwe (2016)
124m
Genre
Drama
Stars
Madina Nalwanga, David Oyelowo, Lupita Nyong'o
Directed by
Mira Nair
This feel-good tale chronicles the true story of 10-year-old Ugandan chess phenom, Phiona Mutesi, who became a Woman Candidate Master recognized on the global chess stage. Born in Katwe, the largest slum in Kampala, Uganda, every day is a constant struggle for Phiona and her family. However, when she meets Robert Katende (David Oyelowo), a missionary who teaches children how to play chess, her life is completely changed. Phiona falls in love with the game and develops incredible skill, soon dominating local competitions and tournaments. With Katende’s guidance and fierce support from her mother, Nakku Harriet (Lupita Nyong’o), Phiona soon discovers chess is a golden ticket out of a life of poverty for herself and her family.
Home Alone (1990)
103m
Genre
Comedy, Family
Stars
Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern
Directed by
Chris Columbus
The film that made Macaulay Culkin one of Hollywood’s most popular child actors, Home Alone chronicles the adventures of Kevin McAllister (Culkin), who’s left to fend for himself after his family accidentally takes off for a vacation in France over the holiday season without him. Believing his family’s disappearance is a wish come true, McAllister initially decides to make the best of the situation, only to realize the harsh reality of his solitary life when two bumbling burglars target his home. Determined to protect his house against the robbers (hilariously portrayed by Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern), McAllister uses every trick he can muster to keep them at bay.
Big Hero 6 (2014)
102m
Genre
Adventure, Family, Animation, Action, Comedy
Stars
Scott Adsit, Ryan Potter, Daniel Henney
Directed by
Chris Williams, Don Hall
This animated feature is set in the fictional, futuristic city of San Fransokyo and follows a young boy determined to use his brilliant robotics skills to find the masked villain who killed his brother and stole his one-of-a-kind invention. Joined by his protective android pal Baymax, Hiro Hamada assembles a team of reluctant students-turned-superheroes to take down the bad guy and save the day. Loosely based on the Marvel Comics team of the same name, Big Hero 6 took home a well-deserved Academy Award as the year’s best animated feature and spawned an animated sequel series currently available on Disney+. At a time when Marvel Studios’ live-action films rule the box office, Big Hero 6 holds its own as one of the best superhero movies ever made.
Luca (2021)
95m
Genre
Animation, Comedy, Family, Fantasy
Stars
Jacob Tremblay, Jack Dylan Grazer, Emma Berman
Directed by
Enrico Casarosa
A shy, young sea monster living off the coast of Italy meets a free-spirited fellow sea monster, and their friendship brings them out of the water and into the world of humans in this delightful film from director Enrico Casarosa. The filmmaker’s own childhood in Genoa, Italy, inspired this tale of friendship, which casts Jacob Tremblay and Jack Dylan Grazer as sea monsters Luca and Alberto, respectively. Fun, funny, and beautifully brought to the screen, Luca is a love letter to childhood friendships and the sights, sounds, and delicious food of the Italian coast.
Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003)
143m
Genre
Adventure, Fantasy, Action
Stars
Johnny Depp, Orlando Bloom, Keira Knightley
Directed by
Gore Verbinski
The first film in what would become the blockbuster Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, The Curse of the Black Pearl offered audiences their first introduction to Johnny Depp as the pirate Jack Sparrow — an iconic performance that not only led to multiple sequels but also brought the entire pirate movie genre back into the spotlight. Given that the film was based on a classic Disney theme park ride, that’s no small feat. The massive success of the franchise following this initial film turned it into a Hollywood staple for nearly a decade. Depp is joined by Keira Knightley, Orlando Bloom, and Geoffrey Rush in the dark fantasy film, which also holds the status of being the first PG-13 movie released by Walt Disney Pictures.
Before Iron Man and the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Disney struck superhero gold with The Rocketeer, director Joe Johnston’s film based on the comic book character of the same name. Set in pre-war Los Angeles in 1938, the film follows a stunt pilot who acquires a strange jet pack, only to suddenly find himself on the run from both aggressive FBI agents and a group of deadly Nazi operatives in pursuit of this new technology. Considered by many to be one of the best superhero movies of the pre-MCU era, The Rocketeer stars Bill Campbell, Jennifer Connelly, Alan Arkin, and Timothy Dalton.
Descendants (2015)
112m
Genre
Family, Music, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, TV Movie
Stars
Dove Cameron, Cameron Boyce, Booboo Stewart, Sofia Carson
Directed by
Kenny Ortega
You might not have heard of this 2015 Disney Channel movie, but if you know anyone between the ages of 5 and 15 right now, you can bet that they know all about it. This musical fantasy from Newsies and Hocus Pocus director (and Dirty Dancing choreographer) Kenny Ortega is set in a world where the villains of classic Disney films have been exiled to a remote island while the rest of the world lives in peace and prosperity under the benevolent rule of Belle and Beast. When four children of the villains are given the chance to attend school on the mainland, they must decide whether to follow their parents’ legacy or prove there really is good in everyone. Along with some amazingly catchy songs and impressive dance choreography, Descendants also features some familiar faces among its adult actors, including Broadway star Kristin Chenoweth as Maleficent. The film went on to spawn two sequels, countless tie-in projects, and a seemingly endless torrent of merchandise on its rise to become one of Disney’s hottest properties for the tween audience.
Inside Out (2015)
95m
Genre
Animation, Family, Adventure, Drama, Comedy
Stars
Amy Poehler, Phyllis Smith, Bill Hader
Directed by
Pete Docter
What if your emotions were little beings that lived inside you? That’s the question Pixar answers in Inside Out, a hilarious and beautiful story about 11-year-old Riley’s move to a new city and her Emotions’ desperate — and occasionally misguided — attempts to help her cope. Joy, Fear, Anger, Disgust, and Sadness aren’t exactly accustomed to working together, but they’ll have to if they’re going to help Riley get through this pivotal time in her life. However, when Joy and Sadness get lost, it’s up to the rest of the team to get them back so Riley doesn’t experience a complete emotional breakdown. Featuring the voice talent of Amy Poehler, Bill Hader, Richard King, Mindy Kaling, and Phyllis Smith, Inside Out is an emotional roller coaster with all of the feels to be expected from a Pixar film.
Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)
125m
Genre
Comedy, Drama, Family
Stars
Robin Williams, Sally Field, Pierce Brosnan
Directed by
Chris Columbus
The films of Home Alone director Chris Columbus were a staple of ’90s cinema, including this film that cast Robin Williams as a divorced actor who poses as a female housekeeper in order to spend time with his children. As he gets sucked deeper into his ruse, he ends up learning more about himself and his relationship with both his kids and his ex-wife, all while dealing with a constant stream of hilarious scenarios and complications that unfold. The film went on to win an Academy Award for its makeup, which turned the acclaimed actor into “Euphegenia Doubtfire,” the British nanny who changes everyone’s lives for the better.
Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children (2016)
127m
Genre
Drama, Fantasy, Adventure, Family
Stars
Eva Green, Asa Butterfield, Samuel L. Jackson
Directed by
Tim Burton
This dark fantasy film based on Ransom Riggs’ novel of the same name follows a young boy whose decision to investigate his grandfather’s tales of a youth spent among children with amazing abilities leads to a meeting with Miss Peregrine, the headmistress of a strange school off the coast of Wales. Pursued by terrifying creatures only he can see, he embarks on an international adventure through time to protect his “peculiar” new friends from a sinister cabal.
Onward (2020)
103m
Genre
Family, Animation, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy
Stars
Tom Holland, Chris Pratt, Julia Louis-Dreyfus
Directed by
Dan Scanlon
With a star-studded voice cast, this animated adventure film is set in a suburban fantasy world where two elf brothers, Ian and Barley Lightfoot (Tom Holland and Chris Pratt, respectively), embark on a journey to find an ancient artifact that they believe will bring back their father who passed away shortly after the youngest son Ian was born. While magic has all but disappeared from society, this artifact can presumably invoke a “visitation spell” that would bring dad back for a single day. That would be helpful since they botched the spell and managed to bring back just the bottom half of dear dad and need the artifact to complete him! While the film isn’t considered one of the best within the extensive Pixar library, it has been praised for being a heartwarming and funny story, released in the early days of the coronavirus pandemic when viewers needed such uplifting content the most.
Clouds (2020)
121m
Genre
Music, Drama, Romance
Stars
Fin Argus, Sabrina Carpenter, Madison Iseman
Directed by
Justin Baldoni
Based on the memoir Fly a Little Higher: How God Answered a Mom’s Small Prayer in a Big Way by Laura Sobiech, this musical drama is about the life of Zach Sobiech, who wrote a song called Clouds as a way to say goodbye to his friends and family following his cancer diagnosis. The song gained international recognition thanks to plays on YouTube, charting on the Billboard Hot 100, and even ranking No. 1 on iTunes in 2013, the year of Sobiech’s death. It’s a sweet story but break out the tissues for this one — you’re going to need them.
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016)
133m
Genre
Action, Adventure, Science Fiction
Stars
Felicity Jones, Diego Luna, Alan Tudyk
Directed by
Gareth Edwards
Filmmaker Gareth Edwards gave audiences a Dirty Dozen-style war story set in the Star Wars universe in this film, which was also the first major spinoff film from Disney’s Star Wars Story anthology series. Set in the time period between Episode III – Revenge of the Sith and the franchise-spawning Episode IV – A New Hope, Rogue One follows a ragtag group of rebels tasked with stealing the plans for the Death Star, the Galactic Empire’s powerful, planet-killing weapon. One of the highest-grossing films in the Star Wars franchise to date, Rogue One earned critical acclaim and a pair of Oscar nominations for its impressive blend of old-school aesthetics and modern visual effects. The film’s closing scene is arguably one of the greatest scenes in the sci-fi saga, leading directly into the events of A New Hope.
Mulan (2020)
115m
Genre
Adventure, Fantasy
Stars
Liu Yifei, Jet Li, Tzi Ma
Directed by
Niki Caro
You no longer need premiere access to watch this live-action adaptation of the 1998 animated film of the same name. Based on the Chinese folklore The Ballad of Mulan, the story follows the adventures of the title character, a young girl with much more ambitious aspirations for herself than to simply get married and become a good wife. But when her frail father is recruited to help fight off an enemy attack, his fierce daughter Hua Mulan takes matters into her own hands. She grabs his gear and joins the training camp, hiding her identity — and gender — as she trains alongside the men.
The Sandlot (1993)
101m
Genre
Family, Comedy
Stars
Tom Guiry, Mike Vitar, Patrick Renna
Directed by
David M. Evans
It didn’t generate a lot of buzz when it was first released, but David Mickey Evans’ coming-of-age film about a group of childhood friends who form a tight bond while playing baseball together in an abandoned lot became an under-the-radar hit when it arrived on the home video market. Evans directed, co-wrote, and narrated the film, which follows a shy fifth-grade boy who moves to a Los Angeles suburb in 1962 and initially struggles to make friends, only to fall in with a motley crew of local kids who bring him out of his shell. Dripping with nostalgia and filled with memorable — and quotable — scenes, The Sandlot is a powerful reminder of the rollercoaster of emotions and simple joys found in the years between childhood and adulthood.
Maleficent (2014)
97m
Genre
Fantasy, Adventure, Action, Family, Romance
Stars
Angelina Jolie, Elle Fanning, Sharlto Copley
Directed by
Robert Stromberg
Angelina Jolie’s shift to fantasy in this film was polarizing. Though many critics applauded her performance and the story itself, they weren’t thrilled with the overuse of CGI and 3D effects. Nonetheless, this fairy tale flick, loosely inspired by Charles Perrault’s original and Disney’s 1959 animated film Sleeping Beauty, put Jolie on the map among younger audiences and across new genres. Rather than tell the familiar story of the beautiful young girl stuck in a deep sleep, waiting for her Prince Charming, this story is told from the perspective of the powerful fairy Maleficent. It provides context as to why she cast the spell that put the 16-year-old Aurora into a permanent sleep in the first place and the reasoning behind only a true love’s kiss being able to break it.
Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
124m
Genre
Sci-Fi, Action, Adventure
Stars
Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher
Directed by
Irvin Kershner
Widely considered the best installment of the entire sci-fi saga, The Empire Strikes Back is the chapter that featured the most dramatic character arcs of the original trilogy and established both their legacies and the tragic events that intertwined their destinies. Not only that, but it also introduced some of the franchise’s most popular supporting characters, Lando Calrissian and Boba Fett, and featured one of the trilogy’s most memorable battles, set on the frozen planet of Hoth. After the heroic events of A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back offered a far more somber exploration of the gritty realities of war against an oppressive, formidable force led by a seemingly indestructible foe: Darth Vader.
Remember the Titans (2000)
113m
Genre
Drama
Stars
Denzel Washington, Will Patton, Wood Harris
Directed by
Boaz Yakin
Denzel Washington plays the new Black head coach of a recently integrated Virginia high school football team in this film based on true events. The series follows the head coach’s efforts to inspire and unite his players and navigate the racial prejudice that exists both within the school’s walls and outside of them. Will Patton portrays the white school’s former head coach, who must set aside his own prejudice and animosity while working under the team’s new coach.
Raya and the Last Dragon (2021)
107m
Genre
Family, Fantasy, Animation, Action, Adventure
Stars
Kelly Marie Tran, Awkwafina, Izaac Wang
Directed by
Don Hall, Carlos López Estrada
A lone warrior sets out to reunite the fractured land of Kumandra by reassembling a powerful magical artifact in this feature from Walt Disney Animation Studios. Part martial arts adventure, part heist film, and soaked in visually stunning images and wonderful fantasy elements, Raya and the Last Dragon is a story about the families we create for ourselves and the strength it takes to build trust after a tragedy. Kelly Marie Tran voices Raya, a capable, independent warrior who must journey to the far corners of her world to bring it together. She’s joined by the dragon Sisu, voiced by Awkwafina, as well as a host of other colorful characters portrayed by Gemma Chan, Daniel Dae Kim, Sandra Oh, Benedict Wong, and Alan Tudyk, among others.
Stargirl (2020)
107m
Genre
Comedy, Drama, Romance
Stars
Grace VanderWaal, Graham Verchere, Karan Brar
Directed by
Julia Hart
Musician Grace VanderWaal portrays the titular new student whose arrival at a New Mexico high school creates a ripple effect throughout the student body and the surrounding community as she challenges the status quo and pushes them to embrace the boundaries of their own self-expression. Graham Verchere portrays the teenage boy whose relationship with Stargirl prompts him to open up and come to terms with what he wants from life. One of the first original films to premiere on Disney+, this high school romantic comedy is a touching coming-of-age story that was praised for its emotional depth and nostalgic spin on teenage relationships.
Toy Story (1995)
81m
Genre
Animation, Adventure, Family, Comedy
Stars
Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Don Rickles
Directed by
John Lasseter
The film that made Pixar a household name and one of the giants of the animated movie world, Toy Story is set in a world where toys come to life the moment humans aren’t paying attention to them. The ridiculously high-profile cast for the film includes Tom Hanks as Woody, a cowboy doll who begins to feel his status as Andy Davis’ favorite toy threatened when the boy gets a new, flashy action figure named Buzz Lightyear (voiced by Tim Allen). Silly hijinks ensue, of course, but the film truly succeeds in its thoughtful exploration of adolescence, friendship, acceptance, and everything we leave behind as we grow older. More than just one of the best Pixar movies, Toy Story is considered one of the greatest animated movies ever made, and was nominated for three Academy Awards, spawned three sequels, and was inducted into the National Film Registry in its first year of eligibility.
Black Panther (2018)
134m
Genre
Action, Adventure, Science Fiction
Stars
Chadwick Boseman, Michael B. Jordan, Lupita Nyong'o
Directed by
Ryan Coogler
Filmmaker Ryan Coogler and the late Chadwick Boseman brought the tale of Marvel’s most famous African superhero to the screen in 2018, and the film went on to break a long list of records at the box office and become one of the most critically praised installments of the entire Marvel Cinematic Universe. Boseman plays T’Challa, the newly crowned king of the secretive African nation of Wakanda, who serves as both his country’s leader and primary defender as the hero Black Panther. When his rule is challenged by the brutal Killmonger (Michael B. Jordan), T’Challa must reconnect with the origins of his power and his legacy to save his kingdom. Following its impressive theatrical run, Black Panther became the first superhero movie to be nominated for an Academy Award in the “Best Picture” category, and the first Marvel movie to win an Academy Award. Black Panther 2 is currently scheduled to hit theaters in 2022, though who will be able to fill Boseman’s tremendous shoes in the title role remains to be seen.
Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988)
104m
Genre
Fantasy, Animation, Comedy, Crime, Family
Stars
Bob Hoskins, Christopher Lloyd, Joanna Cassidy
Directed by
Robert Zemeckis
Robert Zemeckis directed this film, set in a version of 1947 Hollywood in which humans coexist with animated characters. Bob Hoskins plays a private detective investigating the murder of a prominent businessman, only to find himself teamed up with Roger Rabbit, the zany cartoon star who has also become the chief suspect in the businessman’s death. Credited with renewing interest in the golden age of animation and sparking Disney’s renaissance as a movie studio, Who Framed Roger Rabbit ended up winning three Academy Awards for its unique blend of classic cartoons and crime noir.
The Muppet Movie (1979)
97m
Genre
Music, Adventure, Comedy, Family
Stars
Jim Henson, Frank Oz, Jerry Nelson
Directed by
James Frawley
The very first theatrical film featuring Jim Henson’s beloved creations, The Muppets, this 1979 musical adventure has Kermit the Frog leaving his home in the swamp on a cross-country journey to Hollywood. Along the way, he encounters Miss Piggy, Fozzie, Gonzo, and the rest of his Muppets pals, who share his show business aspirations and join him on his wild road trip. Packed with hilarious cameos and featuring Henson’s brilliant knack for blending elements for children and adults, The Muppet Movie stands as one of the greatest Muppets projects ever made, and inspired multiple sequels, spinoffs, and countless other projects over the years.
Coco (2017)
105m
Genre
Family, Animation, Fantasy, Music, Comedy, Adventure
Stars
Anthony Gonzalez, Gael García Bernal, Benjamin Bratt
Directed by
Lee Unkrich
Yet another entry in Pixar’s rich library of diverse cultures, viewpoints, and worlds, Coco is one of the most visually stunning and musically enriching films of the entire Pixar collection. Centering on Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead), this fantasy follows a little boy, Miguel, on a magical, accidental journey into the afterlife. The more he learns about his family and heritage through his colorful journey, the deeper his connection grows to his history and his future. With an uplifting, energetic soundtrack, you’ll want to sing, dance, and revel in the excitement, right until it goes full Pixar and starts to play your heartstrings.
The Princess Bride (1987)
99m
Genre
Adventure, Family, Fantasy, Comedy, Romance
Stars
Cary Elwes, Robin Wright, Mandy Patinkin
Directed by
Rob Reiner
Often cited among the funniest movies of all time, director Rob Reiner’s fantasy adventure told the story of a poor farmhand who must rescue his true love from a group of mercenaries and the evil nobleman who is forcing her to become his bride. As the farmhand Westley and the beautiful Buttercup, Cary Elwes and Robin Wright lead a cast that also includes Mandy Patinkin, Chris Sarandon, Wallace Shawn, André the Giant, and Christopher Guest. Peter Falk and Fred Savage also play supporting roles, presenting the story as a novel that a sick boy’s grandfather reads to him. A cult hit, The Princess Bride was added to the National Film Registry in 2016 for its significance in cinematic history.
Hamilton (2020)
160m
Genre
History, Drama
Stars
Lin-Manuel Miranda, Leslie Odom Jr., Renée Elise Goldsberry
Directed by
Thomas Kail
The cultural phenomenon that is Lin-Manuel Miranda’s celebrated musical Hamilton finally became accessible to everyone who can’t get a ticket when a cinematic recording of the show arrived on Disney+ in July — just in time for Independence Day. The film is pretty much the only remaining way to see the production — which chronicles the life of founding father Alexander Hamilton — performed by its original cast, with Miranda himself in the title role. He’s joined by Tony Award winner Leslie Odom Jr. as Hamilton’s longtime rival, Aaron Burr, in a performance that earned him industry-wide recognition and one of the theater’s most prestigious honors. Disney’s feature-length film offers a front-row seat to the musical that took Broadway by storm and became one of the most critically praised and hotly debated productions in recent memory. There’s no word on how long the musical will be available on Disney+, so don’t throw away your shot to watch it.
Willow (1988)
126m
Genre
Action, Adventure, Fantasy
Stars
Warwick Davis, Val Kilmer, Joanne Whalley
Directed by
Ron Howard
Ron Howard directed this fantasy film based on a story penned by George Lucas, and the result was a movie unlike anything else in the genre. Willow follows a reluctant farmer played by Warwick Davis who finds himself thrust into a magical adventure when he finds an orphaned human baby. His efforts to return the baby put him in the center of a battle for the fate of the world, with a group of colorful characters — including a charismatic mercenary played by Val Kilmer — accompanying him on his quest. The recipient of two Academy Award nominations, Willow featured impressive visual effects produced by Industrial Light and Magic and a memorable story that reignited interest in the high fantasy genre. A sequel to Willow is currently in the works for Disney+.
Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (1989)
93m
Genre
Adventure, Comedy, Family, Science Fiction
Stars
Rick Moranis, Matt Frewer, Marcia Strassman
Directed by
Joe Johnston
Jumanji and Captain America: The First Avenger director Joe Johnston made his directorial debut with this sci-fi comedy about a group of kids who get shrunk to a quarter of an inch tall and must find their way home through the dangerous jungle of their family’s yard. Rick Moranis famously plays the inventor whose latest project accidentally shrinks his own children and his neighbor’s kids. An unexpected hit, the film became Disney’s highest-grossing live-action movie when it was released in theaters — a title it held for five years.
Moana (2016)
107m
Genre
Adventure, Comedy, Family, Animation
Stars
Auli'i Cravalho, Dwayne Johnson, Rachel House
Directed by
Ron Clements, John Musker
The 56th animated feature from Disney’s animation studio, Moana tells the story of a young girl raised to be the next chief of her Polynesian village. Not content to stay on her small island, she embarks on an ocean-spanning journey to find the legendary demigod Maui, return a magical artifact to its island home, and save her village from the mysterious blight that threatens it. Along with breathtaking animation and a phenomenal voice cast led by Dwayne Johnson, Jemaine Clement, and newcomer Auli’i Cravalho (as Moana), the film also features original songs from Hamilton creator Lin-Manuel Miranda and a beautiful score inspired by the film’s Polynesian setting and culture. Despite its recent arrival, Moana is often ranked among the best Disney movies ever made.
Soul (2020)
101m
Genre
Animation, Comedy, Fantasy, Family
Stars
Jamie Foxx, Tina Fey, Graham Norton
Directed by
Pete Docter
A middle-school music teacher dreaming of his big break finally gets it, only to suffer an accident that sends him on a journey through the afterlife in this Pixar feature from Up director Pete Docter and Kemp Powers (One Night in Miami). Jamie Foxx voices Joe Gardner, the aspiring New York City jazz musician who embarks on a quest across various planes of existence to return to his body. Along the way, he’s tasked with teaching a free-spirited soul (voiced by Tina Fey) why life on Earth is worth living. The film has been praised for both its music and its life-affirming message, and features an impressive cast of voice actors and spectacular visual effects used to bring the afterlife to the screen.
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Frozen (2013)
102m
Genre
Animation, Adventure, Family
Stars
Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel, Jonathan Groff
Directed by
Chris Buck, Jennifer Lee
Disney’s 2013 blockbuster, Frozen, was the highest-grossing animated feature of all time until it was surpassed by its 2019 sequel, and it remains the highest-grossing original — as in, not a sequel or spinoff — animated feature of all time by a wide margin. More than a movie, the story of a fearless princess who sets off in search of her estranged sister to save their kingdom from her icy powers became a global phenomenon upon its release. Along with offering a compelling adventure and plenty of clever comedy, Frozen gave the world one of Disney’s most catchy songs, the empowering Let It Go. The film’s success earned it not one, but two Academy Awards, as well as a wildly successful franchise led by musically gifted voice actors Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel, Jonathan Groff, and Josh Gad.
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