While movie fans used to have to wait months for new releases to drop online or in video stores, streaming services like Disney+ have shortened that timeframe considerably. Films like 2023’s Peter Pan & Wendy premiered right on the Disney+ streaming service, allowing fans to immediately enjoy the new adaptation of the classic tale, whereas exclusive titles like Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour are given exclusive content and additional scenes you simply can’t find elsewhere. Along with Disney’s classic library of animated and live-action films, there’s something for just about everywhere.
Disney+ also included packed collections, like the aforementioned MCU, all the Star Wars films and series, as well as the recently added Indiana Jones collection to keep movie nights filled with entertainment. But with so many movies available, how can you tell which ones are really worth watching? Here are our picks for the best of the best movies that Disney+ has to offer, spanning a plethora of genres and decades.
Updated on April 5th, 2024, by Benjamin Hathaway: This article has been updated with additional content to keep the discussion fresh and relevant with even more information and new entries.
54 We Bought a Zoo (2011)
Matt Damon plays the role of the lead character in We Bought a Zoo, which is a gorgeous biographical comedy adapted from the memoir of Benjamin Mee. The premise of the movie sees Benjamin grieving the loss of his wife. Desperate for a change, he purchases a property on the outskirts of town only to realize that it comes with a zoo. The kids are skeptical at first but supportive of his choices, and as Benjamin and the zoo’s staff work on renovations, they find themselves reconnecting with nature and themselves.
Matt Damon Steals the Show
Director Cameron Crowe fills this true story with so much heart and humor. Matt Damon’s portrayal of a single father wanting to do what’s best for the family takes center stage in the movie. His emotional depth and individual charm save the movie from turning into a cheesy, sappy flick you’d typically find in daytime reruns or in DVD bargain bins. But most importantly, its message of healing for and with those you love, and learning that new beginnings arrive when you see through life’s hardest days, makes We Bought a Zoo so relatable.
53 The Greatest Game Ever Played (2005)
The Greatest Game Ever Played
- Release Date
- September 30, 2005
- Cast
- James Paxton , Tom Rack , Armand Laroche , Peter Hurley , Gregory Terlecki , Jonathan Higgins
Another inspiring tale of rising above expectations, The Greatest Game Ever Played tells the story of a young boy named Francis Ouimet (Shia LaBeouf) who dreams of becoming a professional golf player. When he is appointed as a caddy at the Brooklyn Country Club, he has a chance encounter with Mr. Hastings, a club member, who lands him a sport in the U.S. Open golf tournament. Francis plays against some of the most elite players, and despite his talent, he faces prejudice.
A Golfing Underdog Story
The 1913 U.S. Golf Open was a pivotal time in sports history, and it is because the movie tries to stay true to the facts that we get a classic underdog narrative. As a sports biopic, The Greatest Game Ever Played directs the focus on the field and reincarnates visually stunning matches. Under Bill Paxton’s thoughtful direction, the story honors the spirit of the game and peppers it with moments of comedy and charm. Moreover, Shia LaBeouf is outstanding in his breakout role and quite successful in making you root for his character.
52 Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989)
Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade served not only as a return to form after the lackluster Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, but one of 1989’s bigger box office hits in general. That’s no small compliment, considering it was also the year of Batman and Lethal Weapon 2. This time around, Indy returns to what he knows best as he and his father, Henry Jones Sr. (Sean Connery), take on the Nazis once more on a journey to the Holy Grail.
What Makes It the Second-Best Indy Adventure?
The inclusion of Sean Connery’s Henry Jones Sr. was critical to Last Crusade‘s success. The chemistry between him and Ford is more potent than even the best romantic comedies. But, of course, it’s also not a movie that shorts the audience on memorable set pieces and grotesque villain deaths. It’s a film more in line with Raiders of the Lost Ark than Temple of Doom, a refreshing change after the latter’s more morbid themes and darker tone. It would be the original conclusion to the Indiana Jones saga before the release of Kingdom of the Crystal Skull and The Dial of Destiny in 2008 and 2023, respectively.
51 Encanto (2021)
Encanto
- Release Date
- November 24, 2021
Encanto is Disney’s latest family animation that introduces us to a magical Columbian village hidden in the mountains, and the massive Madrigal family that lives in their casita. Each member of the family received their own magical gift when they grew up, but the story isn’t about them. It is about Mirabel, who is devoid of a gift and is thus considered… different. However, when she discovers that the magic of their beloved casita is in danger, she becomes the family’s last hope.
We Still Talk About Encanto
Another phenomenal animation from Disney’s incredible team, Encanto dazzles the audience with an authentic depiction of the Columbian family and their traditions. The original soundtrack, provided by the brilliant Lin-Manuel Miranda, is truly heart-melting. Moreover, the visuals, the storytelling, the wonderful characters, and the underlying message about family and finding your own path are what make the movie adorable. Plus, the song “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” is easily one of Disney’s most memorable songs in recent years.
50 A Christmas Carol (2009)
A Christmas Carol is the animated retelling of Charles Dickens’s classic novel, and it tells the story of a miserly moneylender named Ebenezer Scrooge, who is visited by three spirits from his past life on the eve of Christmas. One of these spirits is Jacob Marley, Scrooge’s former business partner. He reminds Scrooge of his selfish ways and past mistakes, before he poses a choice for the man to choose between death and redemption.
A Mature Holiday Classic
Despite being a holiday classic, the movie has its nuance in terms of storytelling and atmospheric setting. Creating an authentic portrait of lavish Victorian London makes the dark narrative hopeful and profound in the sense that you witness themes of redemption, compassion, and joy. A Christmas Carol also makes you consider your own choices by showing that everyone has the capacity to do better. Jim Carrey’s performance as not only Scrooge, but as the ghosts of Christmas Past, Christmas Present, and Christmas Yet to Come is an incredible demonstration of his range.
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49 Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022)
Following the events of Spider-Man: No Way Home, the next ambitious project by Marvel Studios saw the aftermath of a forbidden spell going terribly wrong. Now that a reality-bending Multiverse has opened up, a dangerous threat has appeared and Dr. Strange has teamed up with an old friend, Wanda Maximoff (now the Scarlet Witch), to help the world restore its balance. But as Wanda descends into villainy to get a life with her kids back, Dr. Strange must fight back.
One of the MCU’s Darkest Films
Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness is directed by Sam Raimi, who brings to the big screen a creative chaos unlike one ever seen before. As one of the MCU’s darkest entries, the film boasts mind-bending concepts, a darker side to superheroes, gorgeous production, and exploration of themes like love, loss, and existential dread. It also stars Benedict Cumberbatch and Elizabeth Olsen, who reprise their roles with the same sincerity and justice to the source material.
48 The Princess Diaries (2001)
The Princess Diaries is the coming-of-age story of shy and introverted high school student Mia Thermopolis (Anne Hathaway), who is shocked when her grandmother visits her in San Francisco and reveals that Mia is actually the heir to the small European country of Genovia. Followed by this revelation, it’s also revealed that it’s time for her to begin her princess lessons and learn how to be poised and charming. Meanwhile, preparations for her public debut at Genovia’s annual ball ensue.
A Fun Debut for Anne Hathaway
The beloved classic is based on Meg Cabot’s books, and to say it is purely magical would be an understatement. Director Garry Marshall infuses every scene with immense wit and heart. Julie Andrews and Anne Hathaway (in her feature-length debut) are absolutely brilliant in their roles. But the core of the film is Mia’s journey. Going from a wallflower to a confident leader isn’t easy, but she showcases courage and overcomes fears, making the film unforgettable and fun.
47 Logan (2017)
Logan
- Release Date
- February 28, 2017
The Wolverine trilogy comes to an epic conclusion with this film. Set in a not-too-distant future, Logan follows the titular character coming out of his retirement to embark on a poignant cross-country journey so that Laura (Dafne Keen), a young mutant, can find sanctuary. But an evil corporation is hot on their trail, and they must defend themselves against all odds.
A Character-Driven Superhero Drama
Logan has a lot of things going for it. Being a character-driven superhero drama, the main focus of the film is Hugh Jackman, who delivers a masterful performance as the iconic Wolverine. Director James Mangold spins the film around with a grim tone, slow pacing, and themes of family and mortality. Laura’s introduction only adds more complexity and gives Logan a purpose. Overall, the movie is riveting, but it also manages to satisfy casual viewers with its intense plot beats. Before the announcement of Deadpool & Wolverine, it served as a climactic conclusion to Hugh Jackman’s tenure as the adamantium-infused superhero.
46 Big (1988)
Big
- Release Date
- June 3, 1988
Directed by Penny Marshall and starring Tom Hanks, Big tells the story of 12-year-old Josh Baskin, who makes a wish at a fortune-telling machine to become bigger. His wish is granted, and he finds himself in the body of a 30-year-old man (Tom Hanks). Landing a job at a toy company and getting introduced to a co-worker named Susan poses more trouble than he could’ve imagined because, emotionally, he’s still living as a child.
A Classic 1980s Tom Hanks Film
The ‘80s were all about grand gestures, vibrant aesthetics, and satisfying conclusions. Big delivers that and more by capturing that universal desire to grow up faster than normal and experience every emotion felt by adults. Tom Hanks gives a hilarious performance as Josh and portrays his innocence in his own adult body with ease. Nostalgic and filled with fun, Big is a film that tenderly explores the fantasy that is adulthood and how it is important to make the most of youth instead. It’s a movie we simply can’t live without.
45 Pinocchio (1940)
Pinocchio is a classic Disney animated film that loosely adapts the Italian children’s story The Adventures of Pinocchio, which was originally published in 1883. Like the original story, the film tells the story of a wooden puppet, Pinocchio, and his woodworking creator, Gepetto. When Pinocchio is magically brought to life by an adventurous fairy, he goes on a sprawling adventure to become a “real” boy by proving his bravery. A live-action remake directed by Robert Zemeckis is also available to stream alongside this animated classic.
One of Disney’s Earliest (And Best) Films
Being Disney’s sophomore film after the success of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, there was a high bar to meet in terms of quality. Luckily, Disney went above and beyond for Pinocchio. Incredible character animation along with impressive developments in environmental design allowed Pinocchio‘s world to truly pop, and some of Pinocchio‘s more understated themes still stand out when compared to Disney’s later films. It’s an essential film for any animation enthusiast.
44 Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith (2005)
George Lucas’ Star Wars prequel trilogy caught a lot of flack from 1999 to about, well, exactly 2017. Why? Star Wars: The Last Jedi showed that, yes, the IP’s fans can be even more disappointed than they already were. But Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith is also a better film than any of the Star Wars films under the Disney umbrella. At the very least, it feels more organic to the narrative and not just an attempt to copy the narrative (and the practical effects that surrounded the original trilogy’s arc). Acting as the conclusion to the prequel trilogy, Revenge of the Sith sees Anakin Skywalker (Hayden Christensen) and Obi-Wan Kenobi (Ewan McGregor) setting the stage for the fall of the Separatists — and the eventual rise of the Galactic Empire.
What Makes It the Apex of the Underrated Prequel Trilogy?
Aside from featuring the iconic canonical debut of Darth Vader, Revenge of the Sith is the prequel trilogy at its most violent and grim. The climactic final battle is one of the most visually impressive duels in the entire Star Wars saga, and the gruesome conclusion has become one of the most recognizable moments in the greater Star Wars canon. Upon its debut in 2005, it became the single highest-grossing film in the United States for that year. Even to this day, many still consider Revenge of the Sith to be the greatest film in the prequel trilogy.
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43 Elemental (2023)
Elemental
- Release Date
- June 16, 2023
- Director
- Peter Sohn
One of the best animated movies of 2023, Elemental is a visually stunning Disney movie set in a world where elemental beings, who personify air, water, fire, and earth, find love and discover their being. Element City is perhaps the greatest city to live in the world, but is it possible for the fiery element Ember Lumen (Leah Lewis) and go-with-the-flow Wade Ripple (Mamoudou Athie) to defy their innate natures and form an unlikely friendship with one another?
A Surprising Pixar Film
Directed by Peter Sohn, the film may seem simple based on its premise, but its rich story and groundbreaking theme about connecting people across their many differences makes it stand out. Somehow, through its lovable characters and vivid animation, the movie speaks to us. Though it initially underperformed at the box office, it managed to close out its theatrical run as a financial success for Pixar, especially in the face of stiff competition throughout 2023.
42 Father of the Bride (1991)
When his daughter declares her upcoming wedding, a loving but peculiar father has a hard time letting go of his little girl. George Banks (Steve Martin) has a perfectly comfortable life but only one fear that he’s unwilling to admit. George’s fear leads to a series of hysterical scenes where he interferes in the wedding plans and makes elaborate schemes to ruin the efforts of his wife, Nina (Diane Keaton), and the event coordinator.
A Crowdpleasing 1990s Comedy
The ‘90s comedy is a certified crowdpleaser, which is part of the reason it has received so many sequels. It captures the chaos and mixed feelings surrounding weddings that we’re all too familiar with. Steve Martin is perfect as the patriarch with a temper trying to adjust to change. His hilarious antics collide with Diane Keaton’s supportive and meticulous side and result in some of the most hilarious gags seen in the decade’s films. But beyond that, the movie Father of the Bride warms your heart too and reminds you to celebrate family and tradition.
41 The Little Mermaid (2023)
The Little Mermaid is the long-awaited live-action reimagining of the classic Disney tale. Following the same story, where the mermaid princess Ariel (Halle Bailey) is truly passionate about exploring the world above water and pursuing her romantic interest, the dashing Prince Eric (Jonah Hauer-King). As Ariel bargains her exquisite voice with the evil sea witch, Ursula, for a shot at human life, she does not realize a bigger scheme is at play.
An Ambitious Remake
Sometimes, Rob Marshall’s ambitious project tries too hard to be likable, but there is no denying the fact that Halle Bailey shines as the titular mermaid. Besides, the soulful musical score paired with the breathtaking creation of the underwater kingdom makes the film a treat for devoted Disney fans. The movie’s impressive, stirring visuals and wonderful musical performances served to inspire a whole new generation of audiences.
40 Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023)
Outrageously hilarious but overflowing to the brim with heart, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 brings the beloved group of misfits together for one last heroic adventure and concludes the trilogy quite fashionably. In Marvel’s recent endeavor, the ragtag-fed family – including Star-Lord, Gamora, Drax, Rocket, Groot, Nebula, and Mantis – have two missions: save the entire universe, and protect one of their own. In the process, they confront their complicated pasts, their origins, as well as unresolved dynamics.
A Fitting Conclusion
Carrying the same tone as the previous two films while still being refreshingly new, the movie brings laughter and emotion in equal proportion. James Gunn delivers on his promise with this satisfying ending to a lovely saga. As for the cast, a majority of the members return with their signature charm and flair to make the film more entertaining than ever. From the sentimental story to the clever action, everything about the film is fitting for a conclusion.
39 Bridge to Terabithia (2007)
Jess Aarons (Josh Hutcherson) is simply a shy kid whose greatest ambition (as a fifth grader) is to outrun his classmates by being the fastest. And he achieves that by practicing all summer long. But when a vibrant and rich new girl at school, Leslie Burke (AnnaSophia Robb), turns out to be faster than him, they immediately strike up a wonderful friendship. Jess and Leslie spend most of their time hanging out in the woods behind Leslie’s house and soon create a magical kingdom called Terabithia, which they rule together. However, this coming-of-age tale comes with one of the most heartbreaking turns you’ll ever see.
A Heartwarming Tearjerker
Bridge to Terabithia is a heartwarming movie about the power of imagination. As kids, our creativity has no bounds, and Josh Hutcherson and AnnaSophia Robb portray the same spirit quite accurately. It would gross just over eight times its budget at the box office, all while sweeping its five nominations at the Young Artist Awards. Overall, this coming-of-age story reminds us that it is possible to find magic in the deepest corners of our minds, while delievering a powerful lesson about life and death.
38 Flight of the Navigator (1986)
Filled with that signature ’80s nostalgia is this beautiful science fiction comedy, which follows 12-year-old David Freeman (Joey Cramer) who wakes up after a mysterious fall in the forest near his house. He discovers that his life has been fast-forwarded eight years into the future. While the rest of his family has aged normally, he hasn’t. David soon hears of an alien spacecraft that landed nearby, and takes it as a chance to trace back the steps to what exactly happened.
A Nostalgic Throwback
David’s time-warping adventure unfolds against the fancy, state-of-the-art special effects of the decade, making the Disney film a truly imaginative fantasy for audiences of all ages. That said, Flight of the Navigator is one of those movies that takes us back to the wonder of being a child. Combined with an exemplary cast comprised of talented names like Veronica Cartweight, Cliff DeYoung, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Paul Reubens, along with an impressive score by Alan Silvestri, and you have a thoroughly underrated Disney film from the mid ’80s.
37 While You Were Sleeping (1995)
Directed by Jon Turteltaub, While You Were Sleeping is a movie that follows Lucy (Sandra Bullock), a transit worker who longs for family and connection. When she saves a man’s life in a tragic incident and takes him to the hospital, she hears that he’s in a coma. Shortly after, she accidentally makes a comment that leads his family to believe that she’s his fiancée. The family takes her in and treats her well, but it gets hard for Lucy to keep up with the lie after she finds herself attracted to Jack (Bill Pullman), the man’s brother.
An Acclaimed Romantic Comedy
This critically acclaimed romantic comedy doesn’t just warm your heart but also gives you a lot to ponder about after repeated viewings. With comical charm and confusion, the movie revolves around a woman’s yearning to break free of her solitary life. Sandra Bullock and Bill Pullman are the very definition of what great on-screen chemistry looks like. Like Bridge to Terabithia, it made back its budget several times over, all while pleasing a majority of critics who appreciated its feelgood atmosphere and optimistic ending. Sandra Bullock’s performance here is easily one of her best.
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36 Confessions of a Shopaholic (2009)
Confessions of a Shopaholic revolves around Rebecca Bloomwood (Isla Fisher), a complete fashionista, addicted to shopping and the feel of fresh cashmere on her skin. But her credit card debts are piling up. Seeing no way out of this pit, she nabs a finance columnist job and tries to win the affections of a dashing entrepreneur named Luke Brandon (Hugh Dancy).
A Comfortable Favorite
If you’re someone who simply cannot resist a dress, a scarf, or a hat while browsing through the long windows of sparkly stores and find yourself being drawn inside the doors and making yet another unnecessary purchase, this movie is for you. Isla Fisher infuses a factor of relatability and joy in this modern Cinderella story. Known to be many viewers’ go-to guilty pleasure movie, the film celebrates the idea of desiring something and seeing if it fills the void in your life. Though critical reviews were negative, its popularity with general audiences and impressive box office returns against films like Taken and 2009’s Friday the 13th showcased its fun appeal.
35 Freaky Friday (2003)
Jaime Lee Curtis plays a single mother named Tess Coleman in Freaky Friday. Tess’ teenage daughter Anna, played by Lindsay Lohan, isn’t a fan of hers and often indulges in arguments and verbal banter with her mother. When the two magically switch bodies because of a freak incident, they learn to appreciate each other’s world from an inside perspective. Famously, this film would be directed by Mark Waters, who would go on to direct the cult classic comedy film Mean Girls only a year later.
One of the Best Body-Swap Comedies
Based on the novel by Mary Rodgers, this body-swap comedy has seen several movie adaptations, but the 2003 remake remains memorable. Lindsay Lohan shines as the new generation’s role model and Jaime Lee Curtis is nothing short of beautiful. Together, the once dysfunctional mother-daughter duo realizes that they share more in common than they would like to believe. From its flashy costume design to its intergenerational humor, everything about Freaky Friday screams millennial representation.
