The 7 Consensus Greatest Disney Movies Of All Time, Per Top-Ranked Reviewers

Remember the days of Saturday morning cartoons, begging your parents to rent the newest Disney VHS, and singing along to iconic tunes in the backseat? Maybe you still have a functioning VCR collecting dust in the basement (don't worry, I won't tell anyone!). Those were the golden years, folks, and the nostalgia for these Disney classics is as strong as ever. Even hotter: the debate over which Disney movies are the greatest of all time.

In the spirit of our “Best of the Best” section, we wanted to find out what the so-called experts think when it comes to this conversation. Settle in for some serious movie magic and get ready to relive the childhood wonder (and maybe shed a few happy tears) as we rank the top seven Disney movies. These hits hold a special place in the hearts of critics, based on the consensus takeaway from nine expert reviews. Did your favorite not make the cut? Let us know in the comments – after all, pretty much any Disney movie is a win!

Top 7 Disney Movies to Revisit on Movie Night

7. “Pinocchio” (1940)

Based on the classic children's story, “Pinocchio” follows a wooden puppet who longs to be a real boy. He embarks on a series of adventures, accompanied by Jiminy Cricket, his conscience. Pinocchio learns valuable lessons about honesty, responsibility, and the importance of family. The film features memorable songs like “When You Wish Upon a Star” and “Give a Little Whistle.”

TimeOut says, though film critics might crown “Pinocchio” the king of animation, its magic is clear for anyone. This story of a wooden wannabe-boy is packed with iconic moments, from a truth-telling nose to a whale of a climax. Every frame, from the Blue Fairy to Jiminy Cricket's iconic song, is a piece of Disney history.

“Pinocchio” isn't all sunshine and roses, according to Games Radar. Geppetto's workshop looks like a toy explosion, and that donkey scene? Yikes! It wowed critics in 1940, but sadly, World War II put a damper on its box office magic. Thankfully, a re-release a few years later launched it into pop culture fame. Kids everywhere started double-checking their noses after a fib, thanks to Pinocchio's truth-telling troubles!

Rolling Stone asks, “How do you follow up on the immense success of ‘Snow White'? If you’re Disney, it’s going bigger, bolder, and even darker.” Adapting Carlo Collodi's tale, the film seamlessly blends moments of wonder with cautionary undertones. Pinocchio's legacy is undeniable, with the iconic “When You Wish Upon a Star” serving as the opening theme for countless Disney films that followed.

6. “101 Dalmatians” (1961)

The only thing not to love about this classic is Cruella de Vil, the story's crazy villain with a seriously messed up fashion sense. But without her, this film would not be the heartwarming favorite that it is today. She adds the perfect amount of conflict and excitement to keep viewers engaged from start to finish.

Seventeen agrees, adding, “Cruella de Vil might just be Disney's most fashionable villain.” Originally animated, most know her from the live-action Glenn Close movie (1996) with adorable Dalmatians. Curious about her past? Check out the 2021 prequel film, “Cruella.”

Harper's Bazaar describes one of the cleverest details in this 1961 Disney gem: how the animators paired the Dalmatians with owners who share similar physical characteristics. It's a funny observation that anyone who's ever seen a dog owner out for a walk can relate to!

“101 Dalmatians” “moves like jazz,” says Rolling Stone. Led by Bill Peet, the film broke new ground as Disney's first non-musical and contemporary story. The animation, featuring Marc Davis' talent, is as energetic and stylish as Cruella herself, making this a must-see for any Disney fan.

5. “Toy Story” (1995)

Ever wondered what your toys do when you're not around? This groundbreaking film takes you into their world, filled with laughter, adventure, and the importance of friendship. Kids and adults alike can appreciate this journey of imagination that will make you see your childhood toys in a whole new light.

Pixar's breakout hit wasn't their first rodeo, but 1995's “Toy Story” launched them (and John Lasseter) into animation superstardom, adds Looper. With Tom Hanks and Tim Allen as Woody and Buzz, it tells the story of secretly-alive toys and a jealous rivalry sparked by a new arrival. Lost and far from home, Woody and Buzz must work together. Despite production struggles and near-cancellation, this computer-animated adventure became a classic.

The impact of “Toy Story” is undeniable. “It was a kid’s film that didn’t feel juvenile, that wasn’t a slog for parents to sit through,” says AV Club. It wasn't just a technical marvel (hello, groundbreaking animation!), but also a charming story that resonated with audiences of all ages. While many movies boast being “for everyone,” “Toy Story” truly delivered. It set the foundation for Pixar's signature themes – themes that keep working their magic in every new film.

While the sequels brought more laughs, heart, and stunning visuals, the original “Toy Story” remains king for pure fun and charm. TimeOut says these ragtag toys have become like family, their personalities so well-developed that they feel as real as our closest friends. That's a true testament to the film's incredible character creation.

4. “The Little Mermaid” (1989)

Oh, to be a mermaid for a day! At least that's what many of us on land dream of. For this mermaid, however, she'd risk it all to be able to walk on land. Dive in an undersea adventure with a mermaid who dreams of exploring the world above the waves. This dazzling film features catchy music, unforgettable characters, and a story about following your dreams and the importance of staying true to yourself.

Watch out Cruella! According to BuzzFeed, Ursula may be taking your spot. Coming in at number one on their list of 100 greatest Disney animated movies of all time, they claim “The Little Mermaid” has “the best music, the best villain, and the best princess!”

Rolling Stone describes this film's takeoff saying, Ron Clements and John Musker became box office titans with “The Little Mermaid.” This emotional powerhouse boasts Disney's strongest song collection. Diving into Atlantica, the film follows Ariel, a mermaid yearning for land and love. Breathtaking animation, Ursula's villainous flair, and timeless songs like “Poor Unfortunate Souls” solidify “The Little Mermaid” as a Disney masterpiece.

Alan Menken and Howard Ashman's Broadway magic brought “The Little Mermaid” to life, adds AV Club. Their iconic song formula (think “I Want” songs and showstopping numbers) remains a Disney staple. Vibrant animation and a stellar cast (Jodi Benson, Pat Carroll, Samuel E. Wright) make the music even more memorable.

3. “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” (1937)

The nostalgia of this iconic film has many of us reminiscing about simpler times and the magic of childhood. In “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” we step into a magical world where a princess finds kindness and friendship in the most unexpected place.

“Heigh-Ho! This first full-length Disney film kicked off the long-running princess legacy,” exclaims Country Living. Fleeing her murderous stepmother, Snow White stumbles upon the lovable seven dwarfs.

Seventeen says “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” is a timeless tale that's been captivating audiences for generations. This classic fairytale isn't just about a princess in peril; it's a reminder that true beauty shines from within. Sure, Snow White is fair of face, but her kindness, courage, and unwavering spirit are what truly make her a princess worth remembering.

As the first fully animated Disney feature film, it's got everything a Disney movie needs: evil villains, a bite-sized bit of danger (courtesy of a poisoned apple!), and a happily-ever-after fueled by true love's kiss. No wonder Disney gets both cheers and jeers for this classic formula! “But, hey, it was 1937, and outdated happily ever after or not, this superb animated feat is a cornerstone picture for Disney,” says Harpers Bazaar.

2. “The Lion King” (1994)

For many of us, our Disney collection would not be complete without this 30-year-old cult-classic (yes, I said 30!). There's just something about the epic adventure of a young lion cub as he learns about responsibility, courage, and the circle of life. Filled with stunning animation, memorable music, and heartwarming friendships, this coming-of-age story will have you roaring with excitement (after a few tears, of course).

Games Radar says “The Circle of Life” instantly sets the scene in the vast African savanna. This Shakespearean-inspired tragedy explores themes of growing up, the complexities of fatherhood, and how trauma and love reshape our understanding of the world and our place within it. Despite Simba's royal birth, his journey of self-discovery resonates deeply with audiences of all backgrounds due to its exploration of identity and the challenges we all face. No wonder it made the top of this list!

Following in the footsteps of its blockbusters, “The Lion King” became a financial behemoth, adds Looper. As the highest-grossing traditionally animated film ever, it raked in nearly $1 billion globally. Solidifying its place as a Disney cornerstone (especially in recent decades), “The Lion King” spawned numerous spin-offs, sequels, and even a live-action remake.

Get ready to “Hakuna Matata” your way through an epic adventure! BuzzFeed isn't wrong – “The Lion King” boasts a music soundtrack that'll have you singing along for days, a story that unfolds with timeless beauty, and visuals that, somehow, still hold up after all these years. It's basically Hamlet, but with majestic lions instead of brooding Danish princes – what's not to love about that?

According to AV Club, “Beauty and the Beast” broke ground with a Best Picture nod, tweaking Disney's formula. Belle, a yearning princess, finds love in a monstrous man. The villain, Gaston, mocks the prince charming ideal, but the film skirts Stockholm Syndrome. Ultimately, it celebrates men who tame their darkness and earn the respect of strong women.

“The film is a sweeping and heartwarming romance, even if you must put aside their questionable circumstances to fully buy in,” adds Rolling Stone. Walt Disney struggled with the story, but Howard Ashman and Alan Menken's musical touch saved the day. Now iconic scenes like the ballroom dance and Lumiere's “Be Our Guest” were born, etching the film into animation history. 

So, whether you're a die-hard Disney fan or just looking for a movie night that won't disappoint, this list has something for everyone. From princess power to epic adventures, these films have been entertaining audiences (and maybe even bringing on a few tears!) for years. Next time you're feeling the need for a blast from the past or a heartwarming adventure, pop in one of these classics and rediscover the magic that only Disney can bring. Who knows, you might just belt out a song or two along the way!

Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. EdNews is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations.