It's been quite some time since my last Five Friday Favorites, but upon recording episode 11 of The Mouse Knows Best Podcast (listen to us here!), I was inspired to bring back this series by discussing the most underrated Disney classics in my humblest opinion.
How does one define a classic? In my book, a classic is a film that will stand the test of time for generations to come while offering something new and unique upon every viewing. When you think about some of the best Disney classic films, masterpieces such as Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella, and Mary Poppins rightfully come to mind. The list of Disney classics is actually rather lengthy because it seems like with every release, Disney is creating a classic. However, there are a handful of films that, from my vantage point, never get the attention and praise they deserve, the definition of underrated. Today, I want to shine a light on those undoubtedly classic films that need to be mentioned in the same breath as the best of the best in Disney history.
I'll start off by listing some honorable mentions. To begin, we must go all the way back to 1949 and revisit the classic combination film, The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad. For some of you reading this, you may have never even heard of this film, but I implore you to do yourself a tremendous favor and seek it out. Telling the stories of Ichabod Crane in one section and the infamous Mr. Toad the other section, this classic film is Disney storytelling in its purest form. Many have actually witnessed these stories come to life in the Disney Parks and may have never even realized it. The Headless Horsemen seen during the Boo to You! parade during Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at the Magic Kingdom is from this film as the villain to Crane, and of course, we all know about Mr. Toad and his wild ride at Disneyland. This is a film to be enjoyed by all ages.
Next, we'll fast forward to the seventies and mention two superb classics: Robin Hood and The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. Throughout the years, the story of Robin Hood has been told in countless iterations, but Disney's 1973 gem is still the cream of the crop in my opinion. Simply told and beautifully animated, Robin Hood gets better and better upon every viewing. Similarly, the Hundred Acre Wood gang have had their fair share of films, but their first venture onto the big screen in 1977 remains the fairest of them all. If you enjoy the Magic Kingdom or Disneyland attraction of the same name, odds are that you'll enjoy this film too because The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh is just as whimsical and phenomenal. The simplicity of the story is what makes this tale a genuine classic.
My final honorable mention goes out to The Great Mouse Detective from 1986. This may be one that you have legitimately never seen before, and let me tell you that you don't know what you're missing. Inspired by the classic tales of Sherlock Holmes, The Great Mouse Detective pushes the boundary of Disney storytelling once again by proving that they can literally tell any story imaginable. This is one of those films that grows on me more and more every time I see it, and I have a feeling it just might for you too.
Now, onward and upward to the top five!
5. 101 Dalmatians
Historically speaking, 101 Dalmatians is one of the most integral films in the Disney canon. In 1959 with the release of Sleeping Beauty, Disney decided to step away from making princess movies after the budget for Aurora's tale swelled beyond what they hoped. This is why we didn't get another Disney princess until 1989 with The Little Mermaid. With 101 Dalmatians, Disney needed to prove that they could tell a variety of stories, and without question, that goal was accomplished tremendously. Expertly animated and crafted seamlessly, this tale of Pongo, Perdita, and their 101 puppies is an underrated masterpiece. Plus, Cruella De Vil has to be one of the greatest Disney villains of all-time. Think about it: she steals the show...from puppies! Her song also just so happens to be my favorite villain anthem as well. We have probably all seen this film, but give it another viewing. This is a film to be studied and applauded for years to come.
4. The Emperor's New Groove
This film may just be one of the funniest movies Disney has created. From the unlikely pairing of Kuzco and Pacha to the incredibly energetic duo of Yzma and Kronk, this movie succeeds at every level. Beyond the plentiful jokes and situational comedy, The Emperor's New Groove is a forgotten gem in Disney history that deserves to be inducted into the pantheon of Disney greats. Its classic nature comes from the fact that every time I watch this movie, I catch a new joke or see something new in the animation. Plus, the voice acting is simple superb. David Spade and John Goodman are perfectly paired together while Patrick Warburton, as he tends to do with his roles, steals the show. Like I now plan on doing, rewatch this one as soon as possible!
3. Mulan
Simply put, Mulan has everything you could want in a movie. It has comedy, dramatic levity, and such a powerful message. On the comedic side of things, Eddie Murphy's Mushu is one of the best sidekicks in Disney history, and that is saying something considering the legions of great sidekicks Disney has created over the years. Also, the catchy tune of "A Girl Worth Fighting For" is the perfect addition to the flawless soundtrack as it provides character insight while also entertaining us all. Dramatically, Mulan singing "Reflection" is a defining moment of Disney animation. Strikingly beautiful and gorgeously composed, this is a anthem that is one of Disney's finest. Additionally, the emotion payoff in the end is classic in and of itself. Every shot is a testament to Disney's storytelling ability as Mulan is a film to be lauded for years to come.
2. Hercules
Overflowing with hilarious and timeless pop culture references, Hercules has to be one of the most entertaining films in Disney's canon. Even in the climatic final battle when the Titans are about to wreck havoc on Mount Olympus, the simplicity of Hades's line saying, "Guys, Olympus would be that way," is something to be researched, dissected, and studied by filmmakers of all crafts. Speaking of the ruler of the Underworld, Hades is one of the only villains that you just hate to love. His plots are so vile against our protagonist and the entire world, and yet, we end up, dare I say, caring for Hades, which is a testament to not only the animators and writers, but also to the incomparable James Woods lending his voice to this iconic character. Hercules and Meg are a dynamic duo and Phil as well as Pegasus provide some excellent comedic relief. The soundtrack is also second to none, boasting classics such as "Go the Distance," "Zero to Hero," and "The Gospel Truth." Basically, this really is a perfect film.
1. The Hunchback of Notre Dame
Admittedly, when I remember back to my younger days watching this film, I was not all that impressed. As I have grown up and revisited this one on multiple occasions though, it is without a doubt one of the finest films in cinematic history, not just Disney history. This is a mature tale that just so happens to be animated as the storytellers tackle topics such as sexual obsession, greed, and the role of the church. Yet, with such such heavy topics at the forefront, The Hunchback of Notre Dame is supremely entertaining, from the show-stopping "Topsy Turvy" sequence to the hilarious gargoyles. Also, the soundtrack is a masterpiece in the musical world. Songs like "Out There," "God Help the Outcast," and "Hellfire," are some of the greatest ballads ever written by the mastermind Alan Menken. For some of you, it may have been an extremely long time since you last watched this gem, but please take my word for it and give this one another viewing. Never has a movie so grown on me as I have aged as this one has in recent years. I can also anticipate that love only growing exponentially in the years ahead as well.
Now, you all have homework, and this is to go and watch these great films. Trust me: you will not regret it.
-Cody Fleenor
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