Animation is the one screen medium that allows an artist to unlock the most potential out of the story they want to tell, which begs the question of why anyone would want to bother trying to reinterpret a great animated movie or TV show for live-action?

Well, we cannot deny it is amusing to see classic animated TV shows and films recreated in a more realistic light, and many have pulled off the task to surprising esteem. The following are some of the most acclaimed and noteworthy examples and, as you might have guessed, there are a few live-action Disney animated movie remakes included.

The Jungle Book (2016)

OK, we realize that we are technically cheating by including director Jon Favreau's The Jungle Book because one of the few elements not created with CGI is Mowgli actor Neel Sethi. However, the film recreates Disney's 1967 adaptation of Rudyard Kipling's seminal stories with Academy Award-winning visual effects so astonishingly vivid that you would not be able to tell the difference.

Transformers (2007)

Released in tandem with Hasbro's popular toy line was the hit animated series Transformers, which was first spun off to the big screen in a 1986 feature starring Orson Welles. More than three decades later, director Michael Bay and executive producer Steven Spielberg would help increase the shapeshifting robots' notoriety with a live-action blockbuster that spawned a long-running franchise.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1990)

Artists Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird first introduced the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles in 1984 with their Mirage Studios comic book series that was later adapted into a toy line and tie-in animated series just three years later. Only three years after that, fans got to see what Leonardo, Donatello, Raphael, and Michelangelo would look like in the real world in a film that depicts the pizza-chomping urban warriors more accurately than the 2014 reboot.

Paddington 2 (2017)

Author Michael Bond's beloved adventures of a marmalade-slurping, Peruvian bear named after a London train station inspired a popular English animated series in the 1970s. While the character was first adapted for live-action cinema in 2014 with Paul King's well-received film, it is the first sequel, Paddington 2, that especially welcomed the bear (voiced by Ben Whishaw) into the hearts of movie lovers of all ages.

The Little Mermaid (2023)

The most famous adaptation of Danish author Hans Christian Andersen's fairytale, The Little Mermaid, is Disney's acclaimed 1989 classic that many audiences thought should be left untouched. However, Halle Bailey's impassioned performance as Ariel and her unbelievable singing talent make director Rob Marshall's live-action take a must-see.

Attack On Titan (2015)

Hajime Isayama's manga depicting a war between humans and giant, man-eating humanoids was made into one of the most popular and acclaimed Japanese anime TV shows of its time, Attack on Titan. Toho would release a two-part feature adaptation that was criticized by fans for the way it deviated from the source material but impressed general film critics with its exciting B-movie-style action and bizarre creature designs.

101 Dalmatians (1996)

Dodie Smith's 1956 novel The Hundred and One Dalmatians was first adapted into an instant animated classic in 1961, featuring Betty Lou Gerson as the voice of Cruella de Vil – a villain who seemed too uproarious for a live-action setting. That was until Glenn Close stepped into the role, giving a pitch-perfect performance as the ruthless fashionista in director Steven Herek's fun reboot.

Pokémon: Detective Pikachu (2019)

When Pokémon: Detective Pikachu was first announced, fans of the trading card game/video game/animated TV show questioned why the franchise's first live-action installment, of all the potential choices, would be based on a game that makes the lightning-spewing creature a talking mystery solver. However, with Ryan Reynolds voicing the adorable title hero, an impressive Justice Smith as his human companion, and a witty script, Rob Letterman's film was heralded as one of the best video game movies ever made.

George Of The Jungle (1997)

A movie you might not have known was based on a TV show is George of the Jungle, which was originally an animated series that ran for only 17 episodes in 1967. Future Academy Award winner Brendan Fraser's performance in the title role would make Disney's hilariously meta live-action feature nearly as iconic as the character it was poking fun at: Tarzan.

Cinderella (2015)

Most audiences would immediately become convinced that Disney really was on to something when it released the live-action version of its animated, 1950 adaptation of the seminal fairytale, Cinderella. Directed by Kenneth Branagh and led by an extraordinary Lily James, the reinterpretation would redefine the titular princess as a strong, independent role model and the story itself as a touching romance worth buying into.

One Piece (2023)

Netflix has released live-action iterations of a few popular anime series and one of the more successful is developers Matt Owens and Steven Maeda's TV show, One Piece. Originally based on a manga by writer and illustrator Eiichiro Oda, the animated series adaptation premiered in 1999 and followed the adventures of a pirate crew searching for mystical treasure.

Scooby-Doo (2002)

There is probably not a single person who disagrees that none of the live-action adaptations of Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? have surpassed the beloved Hanna-Barbera cartoon. However, the generation that grew up with the James Gunn-penned reboot, simply titled Scooby-Doo, regards the film as a classic that boasts some spot-on casting for the Mystery Inc. crew, especially Matthew Lillard as Shaggy, even if Scooby's CGI animation is a little dated.

The Flintstones (1994)

Executive producer Steven Spielberg's adaptation of the Hanna-Barbera favorite, The Flintstones, starring John Goodman as Fred and Rick Moranis as Barney Rubble, was not met with the most positive reviews, particularly for its tepid humor and adult-oriented storylines. However, the city of Bedrock reimagined for a live-action setting is truly a wonder to behold.

Office Space (1999)

There are two different types of fans of Mike Judge's filmography: those who love his animated efforts, such as Beavis and Butt-Head, and those who admire his live-action titles, such as Silicon Valley. Well, fans of Office Space might be surprised to learn that their love for the film, technically, makes them a fan of both since the cult-favorite corporate satire is based on a series of short films Judge created called Milton.

Mulan (2020)

Mulan is a modern Disney classic way ahead of its time that some might call a movie that did not need a reboot, especially with the exclusion of its famous musical numbers and the mystical lizard sidekick, Mushu (Eddie Murphy). However, Yifei Liu is wonderful in the title role of a Chinese woman posing as a male imperial soldier to save her father's life and the action is beautifully choreographed.

Speed Racer (2008)

Originally a Japanese manga that became an international pop culture phenomenon as an anime series, Speed Racer was later adapted by Lana and Lily Wachowski into a live-action film starring Emile Hirsch as the ambitious titular driver. The brightly colored, CGI-heavy film was divisive upon release, but has since been widely reevaluated as an underrated cult favorite.

Casper (1995)

Casper made his debut in a series of Paramount-produced animated shorts called The Friendly Ghost before the spirited spirit became an official property of Harvey Comics and went on to star in multiple hit animated series. He would return to cinema in a fun entry-level ghost story, starring Christina Ricci and Bill Pullman, that became the first live-action film to feature a central character who is created entirely with CGI.

Chip 'N Dale: Rescue Rangers (2022)

Established Disney favorites Chip and Dale became the stars of their own adventure series, called Chip 'N Dale: Rescue Rangers, in the late 1980s. The anthropomorphic chipmunks would later be voiced by Andy Samberg and John Mulaney in a feature film of the same name that premiered on Disney+ to wide acclaim from both critics and audiences.

Cruella (2021)

Disney had already released two live-action installments to the 101 Dalmatians franchise by the time the company announced director Craig Gillespie's spin-off, Cruella. However, it proved to be a worthy entry thanks to a lead performance by Academy Award winner Emma Stone that would forever change the way audiences saw the typically ruthless villain.

Dora And The Lost City Of Gold (2019)

Nick Jr. introduced a hero who would bring young viewers along with her on her many adventures in the animated series, Dora the Explorer, which originally premiered in 2000. Isabela Merced played a teenage version of the character in the theatrically released live-action feature, Dora and the Lost City of Gold, which also stars Danny Trejo as the voice of her monkey sidekick, Boots.

Looney Tunes: Back In Action (2005)

In 1996, Space Jam brought the real-life basketball champion Michael Jordan into the world of Bugs Bunny and his furry friends. Roughly a decade later, Joe Dante's spiritual sequel Looney Tunes: Back in Action – a globe-trotting espionage adventure with Brendan Fraser, Jenna Elfman, and Steve Martin – would, instead, bring the iconic cartoon characters into our live-action world.

Popeye (1980)

Director Robert Altman could not have picked a better choice than Robin Williams to bring the beloved comic strip character, Popeye, to life in his live-action film, also starring Shelley Duvall as Olive Oyl. Williams heavily altered his voice to authentically match the voice of the spinach-chomping sailor, which was originated by voice actor Billy Costello for the character's original animated adaptations.

Christopher Robin (2018)

Author A. A. Milne's world-famous bear, Winnie-the-Pooh, actually made his television debut as a puppet in a live-action 1960 episode of Shirley Temple's Storybook before getting his own beloved animated series later that decade. He and the rest of the animals from the Hundred Acre Wood would return to the medium for Christopher Robin, in which Pooh's human friend (played by Ewan McGregor) grows up to become someone similar to Robin Williams' Peter Banning in Hook.

Ben 10: Race Against Time (2007)

The Cartoon Network original series Ben 10 is about a boy who discovers a device that, when placed on his wrist, can turn him into several different extra-terrestrial species. Two years after it premiered, the channel aired a live-action feature spin-off from director Alex Winter called Ben 10: Race Against Time, starring Graham Phillips in the title role. It was followed by 2009's Ben 10: Alien Swarm, which stars Ryan Kelley as an older Ben.

Aladdin (2019)

One of the most beloved animated movies from Disney's "Renaissance Era" in the '90s is Aladdin, which follows a poor, young Arab man (voiced by Scott Weinger) whose luck begins to change when he befriends a genie (voiced by Robin Williams). Guy Ritchie helmed a live-action retelling starring Mena Massoud in the title role and Naomi Scott as Jasmine, which proved to be a career milestone at the box office for Will Smith, who played Genie.

Madeline (1998)

The first adaptation of Ludwig Bemelmans' Madeline books, which center on a witty, mischievous young girl at a Catholic boarding school in 1950s France, was in a 1960 episode of The Shirley Temple Show. After the books were adapted into a popular animated series in the late '80s and early '90s, a live-action feature was released to theaters, starring Hatty Jones in her debut role as the title character and Oscar winner Frances McDormand as Miss Clavel.

Beauty And The Beast (2017)

Author Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve's "tale as old as time" has been adapted and reinterpreted into countless variations, with few as famous and esteemed as 1991's Beauty and the Beast from Disney. The company would revive the Oscar winner with a live-action feature starring Emma Watson as Belle and Dan Stevens as the Beast.

Masters Of The Universe (1987)

Some audiences consider the live-action Masters of the Universe film, starring Dolph Lundgren as He-Man and Frank Langella as Skeletor, to be one of the worst movies based on a toy. However, it is a fun cult favorite in the eyes of those who grew up with the tie-in animated series about a prince using his mystical abilities to defend his kingdom.

Mr. Magoo (1997)

Mr. Magoo, an elderly millionaire who often finds himself in uproarious situations due to his extreme near-sightedness, entertained audiences with his animated short films and various iterations of his TV show for decades before Disney adapted the character for live-action. Admittedly, the best reason to check out the film is to watch the great Leslie Nielsen work his comedy magic.

The Sorcerer's Apprentice (2010)

The original Sorcerer's Apprentice was a short film that appeared in Disney's 1940 animated anthology movie, Fantasia, in which Mickey Mouse's character uses his boss' mystical hat to create an army of sentient brooms. Director Jon Turtletaub expands upon the concept and redefines it as a Harry Potter-esque adventure starring Nicolas Cage as a wizard living in modern-day New York City who takes Jay Baruchel's character under his wing.

Dudley Do-Right (1999)

Dudley Do-Right first appeared as a segment on The Rocky and Bullwinkle Show in the late 1950s before becoming the star of his own animated series the following decade. Brendan Fraser does his best to do for the heroic Canadian Mountie what he did for George of the Jungle in director Hugh Wilson's live-action feature.

Æon Flux (2005)

Director Karyn Kusama's Charlize Theron-led thriller, Æon Flux, is not a very beloved film by itself. However, seeing the eye-popping, dystopian visuals from the original MTV animated series brought to life for a live-action setting is quite remarkable.

For every movie that did not need a remake and for all of the TV shows with unneeded reboots, there are a few that have managed to surpass their predecessors... or, at least, justify their existence. In most cases, the secret to their success is to reimagine a beloved pop culture property into something, not just bigger, but darker, just like these flicks and TV series did.

Batman Begins (2005)

The last time we saw The Dark Knight on the big screen was in the very lighthearted and campy Batman & Robin, which killed the live-action Batman movie franchise at the time. Christopher Nolan revived Bruce Wayne’s alter ego on the big screen, and in pop culture in general, in his proper form with an acclaimed and earnestly told origin story called Batman Begins – the first installment of his phenomenal Dark Knight Trilogy.

The Addams Family (1991)

Charles' Addams original comic, The Addams Family, inspired a hit live-action sitcom and a couple of animated series that certainly maintained the same "kooky" tone. However, director Barry Sonnenfeld’s film adaptation and its 1993 sequel, Addams Family Values, would up the ante on its "creepy" appeal, especially with Christina Ricci’s now definitive performance as a morbidly deadpan Wednesday.

Riverdale (2017-2023)

Any adaptation of the Archie comic books, whether animated or produced in live-action, was intended to be a comedy, with the closest thing to a drama being Archie's Weird Mysteries in the late 1990s. That all changed when The CW began airing Riverdale, which depicted the misadventures of Archie, Jughead, Betty, and Veronica as an earnest coming-of-age soap opera.

It And It Chapter Two (2017-2019)

We recognize that the 1990 miniseries adaptation of Stephen King's It left an entire generation in fear of clowns. However, from the opening scene of Andy Muschietti’s feature-length version of It (the first of two creepy clown movies), in which Bill Skarsgård’s Pennywise bites off little Georgie's arm before pulling him into the sewer, it was clear this was a more unforgiving version of the shape-shifting, fear-feeding demon than Tim Curry's portrayal.

Casino Royale (2006)

Every cinematic iteration of author Ian Fleming's MI6 agent, from Sean Connery's portrayal to Pierce Brosnan's, was a suave gentleman who typically put brains over brawn. That was until Casino Royale introduced a 007, played by Daniel Craig, who is both brainy and brawny and not above taking out his enemies with brutal hand-to-hand combat. Since then, the James Bond movies have never been grittier.

Chilling Adventures Of Sabrina (2018-2020)

For years, the best-known adaptation of the enchanted Archie Comics character, Sabrina Spellman, was the hit ABC sitcom, Sabrina the Teenage Witch. That was until Netflix released the Kiernan Shipka-led Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, which is more comparative to Buffy the Vampire Slayer in tone.

The Fly (1986)

Director Kurt Neumann's 1958 adaptation of George Langelaan's short story, The Fly, was a creepy little creature feature, including horror movie icon Vincent Price in a memorable supporting role. However, David Cronenberg’s version, starring Jeff Goldblum as a scientist transforming into a half-man, half-insect and Geena Davis as his new lover, is the quintessential cinematic body horror nightmare and a devastating romantic tragedy.

Man Of Steel (2013)

In the film that kicked off the now-defunct DC Extended Universe, director Zack Snyder introduced a less optimistic take on Clark Kent's alter ego, who resorts to murder to defend Metropolis in a controversial moment from Man of Steel. Even Henry Cavill's Superman costume boasts a darker color scheme than any live-action iteration to come before.

Bel-Air (2022)

Hip-hop artist Will Smith proved he had the chops to be a charismatic actor in the early 1990s when he led the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air cast as a young Philadelphia man sent to live with his wealthy California relatives after getting in a fight. Years later, the Oscar winner returned to produce Bel-Air – a Peacock-exclusive series that reimagines the hit sitcom as a grounded coming-of-age drama.

Battlestar Galactica (2004-2009)

One of the most essential examples of a TV reboot done right is developer Ronald D. Moore's reimagining of Glen A. Larson's classic '70s sci-fi series, Battlestar Galactica. The Emmy-winning, SyFy original version of the story of a crew searching for a long-lost planet Earth in a wartorn future went on to become one of the genre's most celebrated TV shows.

Teen Wolf (2011-2017)

The 1985 comedy, Teen Wolf, in which Michael J. Fox's character inherits his family's lycanthropic curse, is really a metaphor for self-discovery. MTV's hit series adaptation starring Tyler Posey, in addition to making the protagonist a wolf bite victim who uses his abilities to fight evil, throws humor and symbolism almost completely out the window.

Dredd (2012)

The first film featuring Judge Dredd, who was introduced in the U.K. anthology comic, 2000 AD, saw Sylvester Stallone take on the title role and make the fatal flaw of removing his signature helmet. Even taking that controversial detail out of the equation, many believe the Alex Garland-penned Dredd, starring Karl Urban, was a step up for its dead-serious approach to the source material’s vision of a dystopian world ordered by officers who serve as judge, jury, and executioner.

Goosebumps (2023-2024)

Following the '90s anthology horror TV show based on R.L. Stine's creepy but kid-friendly book series, Goosebumps, there were two film adaptations that seemed to go in a more kid-friendly and less creepy direction. However, Rob Letterman and Nicholas Stoller's seasonal anthology series released on Hulu and Disney+ aimed to up the ante on its thrills by making it a teen drama.

Invasion Of The Body Snatchers (1978)

The first alien invasion movie based on Jack Finney’s largely influential novel about humans replaced with emotionless extraterrestrial replicas, released in 1956, ended on a more hopeful note. However, director Philip Kaufman's remake, starring Donald Sutherland, maintains a bleak and hopeless tone throughout, which is why it is still considered the best Invasion of the Body Snatchers movie out of the many Hollywood has released.

Maleficent (2014)

Some of the most amusing live-action Disney animated movie remakes have opted to reexamine the source material from another perspective. For instance, the Academy Award-nominated Maleficent reimagines the story of Sleeping Beauty from the point of view of the eponymous antagonist, played by Angelina Jolie.

Rise Of The Planet Of The Apes (2011)

The original Planet of the Apes movies are fun sci-fi classics set in a future in which primates have become Earth's dominant species. Director Rupert Wyatt's Rise of the Planet of the Apes, Matt Reeves' two sequels (Dawn and War), and Wes Ball's Kingdom explore the devastating origins of that dystopian society, due to an ill-fated attempt to cure Alzheimer’s and a global virus causing human evolutionary regression.

Evil Dead (2013)

Sam Raimi’s 1981 classic, The Evil Dead, was already a nearly unparalleled experience in grueling terror but the second and third installments, Evil Dead II and Army of Darkness, were fun horror-comedy movies boasting a far lighter tone. With his 2013 installment, director Fede Álvarez went back to basics and amplified what made the original possession thriller iconic with some unbelievably brutal sequences and a more earnest plot set-up involving an addict attempting a woodland cabin detox.

Cruella (2021)

There are few villainous characters in Disney history more despicable than Cruella de Vil from 1961's One Hundred and One Dalmatians. However, director Craig Gillespie's live-action Cruella successfully makes the title character (played by Academy Award winner Emma Stone) sympathetic by employing a depressing origin story that sees her forced to turned crime as a child after witnessing her mother's murder.

Winnie The Pooh: Blood And Honey (2023)

Just a year after author A.A. Milne and illustrator E.H. Shepard's Winnie the Pooh entered the public domain, the beloved children’s book character was reimagined as a killer who goes on a vengeful rampage after grown-up Christopher Robin abandons the Hundred Acre Wood. Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey and its 2024 sequel are not regarded as some of the best slasher movies of their time but they certainly got people talking.

Mockingbird Lane (2012)

Many assumed that Rob Zombie'sThe Munsters movie would be a darker reinterpretation of the "monstrous" family until it was revealed to be a thoroughly faithful adaptation. However, there was an attempt at a somewhat more earnest and macabre take on the 1960s sitcom in the form of developer Bryan Fuller's Mockingbird Lane – a failed pilot that aired as a Halloween special on NBC.

Titans (2018-2023)

The Teen Titans series, following the DC Universe's most powerful underage heroes, was already dark enough to satisfy young audiences craving a cartoon with an edge, but it was later rebooted as the absurdly comedic Teen Titans GO! Thus, many fans were thankful for the live-action Titans, which proved to be the most mature adaptation of the original comic yet.

The Banana Splits Movie (2019)

There was a made-for-TV feature-length spin-off from the Saturday morning children's program, The Banana Splits, in which Fleegle, Bingo, Drooper, and Snorky must take on an evil witch. However, Danishka Esterhazy's The Banana Splits Movie is a bloody slasher that makes the rock band of happy animal mascots the villains.

Mulan (2020)

The beloved 1998 film Mulan is – despite following many of the same traditions of a Disney animated feature, such as supernatural twists and musical interludes – still regarded as an important tale of female empowerment. Disney's live-action version, starring Yifei Liu as the title hero, is a more earnest war drama devoid of humor, show tunes, magic, and, most notably, Eddie Murphy's Mushu.

Mortal Kombat (2021)

The Mortal Kombat films from the 1990s could have been considered some of the most faithful video game movies of all time if it were not for the limitations of the PG-13 rating. Thus, director Simon McQuoid's R-rated adaptation is revered as the first to more accurately capture the violence of the one-on-one fighting game series.

Halloween (2007)

No one would have believed that co-writer and director John Carpenter’s 1978 horror movie classic, Halloween, could be remade into anything darker. Yet, Rob Zombie made it happen with a divisive reboot that gives masked murderer Michael Myers (played by Tyler Mane) an origin story involving child abuse, a higher body count, and a far more sadistic MO.

Beauty And The Beast (2017)

Disney's live-action adaptation of the classic fairytale, Beauty and the Beast, is noted for being a relatively faithful rendition of its beloved animated iteration from 1991. However, Bill Condon's film, which stars Emma Watson and Dan Stevens, does darken the material, mostly by giving its characters more tragic backstories.

Power Rangers (2017)

Mighty Morphin Power Rangers is, technically, an Americanized reboot of Kyōryū Sentai Zyuranger and would edit battle scenes from the original Japanese show into its episodes. Director Dean Israelite's Power Rangers movie attempted to appeal to modern audiences seeking grimmer storytelling by raising the stakes and giving the young warriors more grounded backstories.

The Phantom Of The Opera (1989)

Freddy Krueger from the A Nightmare on Elm Street movies was not the only iconic horror movie villain whom Robert Englund portrayed. He also took on the esteemed mantle of the title role from Gaston Leroux's 1910 novel, The Phantom of the Opera, in a much more violent and viscerally gory interpretation.

Hellboy (2019)

Director Rob Marshall’s adaptation of Mike Mignola’s Dark Horse comic book, Hellboy, was a critical and commercial failure that also deeply pales in comparison to Guillermo del Toro’s movies. However, it does boast a charming performance by David Harbour as the titular kindhearted demon and earns its R rating with some gloriously blood-soaked action sequences.

Fantastic Four (2015)

The first attempt to bring the Fantastic Four to the big screen (or, the first one to get released, that is) from Tim Story was high in camp and struggled to impress critics as a result. For his reboot, director Josh Trank attempted to reimagine the origins of Marvel’s first superhero family as a body horror flick and still failed to make a decent impression on critics and audiences alike.

The Mean One (2022)

Audrey Geisel banned live-action Dr. Seuss movies because, to her, 2003's The Cat and the Hat was no fun, but just imagine how the good doctor's widow would have reacted to The Mean One. Terrifier star David Howard Thornton, an actor who knows how to thrill, stars in this cheesy slasher as a Grinch naughty enough to kill.

Snow White And The Huntsman (2012)

Instead of seven dwarfs, Kristen Stewart’s version of a famous fairytale hero teams up with a capable hunter (Chris Hemsworth) to take down an evil queen (Charlize Theron) in the action-packed Snow White and the Huntsman.

Boot camps and other military training scenes have been part of Hollywood movies for a long time. Some of the most intense scenes in film history have some from such scenarios and so we've decided to make a list of some of the most iconic examples of these scenes. Our list of the most intense military training scenes in film history,

G.I. Jane

Demi Moore went through a ton of training in real life to pull off her starring role in G.I. Jane. The movie tells the fictional story of the first woman to go through Navy SEAL training and it's as intense as a movie can get. Though the movie didn't perform well at the box office, you have to appreciate the dedication Moore put into the role.

Heartbreak Ridge

You have to admit, having Clint Eastwood play a military instructor is perfect casting, and so it makes sense he would cast himself in his own movie, Heartbreak Ridge. Eastwood is awesome as a gunnery sergeant sent to clean up a ragtag unit of slackers. It's classic Eastwood.

Tigerland

Tigerland was one of the biggest bombs of director Joel Schumaker's career and that's too bad because it's actually a great movie. Colin Farrell plays a Vietnam-era draftee who is opposed to the war and does everything he can to be a troublemaker in his training for the war. The result is a lot of incredibly harrow scenes throughout his training and makes for an amazing movie about military life,

Top Gun

Top Gun is a little different because it's not about boot camp or other military training movies, it's about pilots trying to become the best of the best in high-level naval aviation. That doesn't diminish the intensity of the training, however, it only enhances it. It's become one of the most iconic military movies of all time as a result.

An Officer And A Gentleman

In An Officer And A Gentleman, Lou Gossett, Jr. plays the epitome of a strict, no-nonsense drill sergeant. He's particularly hard on one of his trainees, played by Richard Gere, in this genre-defining military training movie. It's a romance movie at its heart, but some of the most memorable scenes are the military scenes.

The Tuskegee Airmen

HBO's 1995 movie The Tuskegee Airmen has a stacked cast that includes Laurence Fishburne, Malcolm-Jamal Warner, Courtney B. Vance, Andre Braugher, Cuba Gooding Jr., and John Lithgow. It's appropriate to have such a cast when telling the true story of the real-life Tuskegee Airmen, the first Black pilots in the U.S. Military. It's a hard road for all the trainees and this movie pulls no punches in telling the difficult, sad, and eventually triumphant story.

Captain America: The First Avenger

Even the Marvel Cinematic Universe has dipped its toes into military training movies. In Captain America: The First Avenger, audiences get to see a pre-Captain America Steve Rogers go through his early military training and it plays for both laughs and for inspiration as the undersized Rogers does all he can to succeed, despite the odds (and everyone around him) being against him.

Mulan

In both the 1998 animated movie and the 2020 live-action remake, Mulan features a few cool training scenes as the titular character, under the guise of being a man, learns how to fight in ancient imperial China. It's a different take on training, for a few obvious reasons, but both movies have great sequences.

Glory

Glory, which tells the story of one of the very few all-Black regiments in the Civil War, is one of the best war movies ever made. And that starts with the training sequences that are as intense as any movie, given the subject matter and what you would expect of an all-Black regiment being trained by white officers in the 1860s.

Full Metal Jacket

You simply can't make this list without including Stanley Kubrick's masterpiece Full Metal Jacket. The opening third of the movie features one of, if not the, most intense example of military training in Hollywood history. Led by real-life former drill instructor R. Lee Ermey, the first act of the movie is simply incredible for many reasons, including its realism.

Starship Troopers

1997's Starship Troopers was a box office bomb that was actually pretty great. The Paul Verhoeven-directed film was misunderstood at the time and has developed a strong cult following in the decades since. It also has a great training sequence and being set in the future, it's a sequence that sets it apart from a lot of the other movies on this list.

Beasts Of No Nation

Beasts Of No Nation is one of the hardest movies to watch that you'll ever see, but one of the best movies set in Africa. It's truly not for the faint of heart. The training scenes are not conventional, as training an army of child soldiers isn't conventional, and that makes the scenes all the more intense and ultimately heartbreaking.

Stripes

We had to include some lighter movies on this list, right? Stripes is one of the funniest movies of its era and yet, it still manages to pull off some intense army training scenes that ultimately includes the hapless unit's drill sergeant getting blown up. So that's pretty intense! And hilarious.

Taps

1981's Taps is set in a military school for teenagers and features a monster cast in some of their earliest roles including Sean Penn, Giancarlo Stanton, and Tom Cruise. It doesn't feature a ton of training scenes, but there are a few that add to the tension of the movie before some of the kids end up using that training for sinister purposes.

Jarhead

2005's Jarhead, directed by Sam Mendes, is based on the true story of a marine in the first Gurl War and features some of the most intense military training scenes ever put on film. Not only does the recruit (played by Jake Gyllenhaal) go through Marine boot camp, but also through sniper school, which is even more intense as only a fraction of the class make it all the way through.

The Dirty Dozen

There are few war movies as classic as The Dirty Dozen. In the movie, Lee Marvin's character is put in charge of a unit of misfits and rule-breakers that he must mold into a crew capable of pulling off a mission no one else is interested in doing. He does that, of course, with a lot of serious training.

The Recruit

While The Recruit isn't about military training, per se, the CIA recruitment training isn't all that different in many respects, so it deserves a spot on this list. Instead of the hard-nosed drill sergeant, it's an equally hard-nosed recruit trainer played by al Pacino putting his pet project, played by Colin Farrell through some intense training.

Private Benjamin

Private Benjamin, starring Goldie Hawn in one of her best roles is a silly movie, in all the best ways. When Judy Benjamin (Hawn) loses her husband on their wedding night, she is more or less tricked into joining the army and hilarity ensues. Like other military comedies of its ilk, it somehow shows the lighter side - and the harder side - of boot camp.

Hacksaw Ridge

Director Mel Gibson may have a problematic history in Hollywood, but it's hard to deny that he really knows how to tell a story. Hacksaw Ridge is the true story of Desmond Doss, a Seventh-Day Adventist, and conscientious objector joining the army during World War II and eventually being awarded the Medal of Honor for his service as a medic in the war. The first half of the movie includes his training as a medic before joining his unit in the Pacific Theater.

The Boys in Company C

Though not as famous as some of the other movies on this list, The Boys in Company C is a great movie about boot camp during the Vietnam era. The movie starts with "the boys" going through some of the most brutal training you can imagine and though the movie is filled with silly stereotypes, the training scenes are still excellent.

Forrest Gump

Forrest Gump might not be the first movie that comes to mind when you think of intense training scenes, but it's got them! Gump and Bubba go through training for the war together and become great friends, of course. It also somewhat cynically shows Gump as the perfect recruit because of his below-average intelligence, which isn't really fair, but still makes for some great moments.

Top Gun: Maverick

Just like it's predecessor, Top Gun: Maverick features some incredible flight-training scenes in preparation for the final attack of the movie. This time, the trainer is Maverick as he takes no quarter on his trainees in getting them ready for the attack.

Biloxi Blues

The 1988 Mike Nichols-directed Biloxi Blues is based on the semi-autobiographical play by Neil Simon telling his story about boot camp during World War II. While it is definitely a comedy, there are some very intense and downright terrifying moments in the movie between the recruits and their drill sergeant played by Christopher Walken.

American Sniper

There is nothing harder in the military than Navy SEAL training (also known as BUD/S training). Perhaps the best depiction of that training comes in American Sniper when Chris Kyle, played by Bradley Cooper, does the training before becoming a sniper. You feel every bit of how intense the training really is as you watch Kyle and his fellow recruits suffer through it.

The Inspection

Writer and director Elegance Bratton brings his own life story to the big screen as a gay man going through boot camp in the U.S. Marines. Boot camp is hard for anyone, but it's even more complicated for gay men seeking acceptance and recognition as Bratton so elegantly shows in the movie.

Major Payne

Okay, okay, before you roll your eyes too much here, yes, Major Payne is a silly movie, and no, it's not technically military training as Payne (Damon Wayans) is training kids. But - it does show, in a completely over-the-top way, a somewhat realistic, if cartoony, version of a boot camp drill sergeant.

Zero Dark Thirty

Most of the movies on this list are of boot camp or other general military training, Zero Dark Thirty is unique in that it shows the training for one specific mission - the mission to take about Osama bin Ladan. It still very much belongs on this list as the training scenes are every bit as intense as any boot camp scene can be, and it's an incredible look at the ongoing training members of the military go through even after they are deep into their careers.

Men Of Honor

Men of Honor is the true story of the first African-American master diver in the U.S. Navy. It stars Cuba Gooding, Jr. as Master Chief Petty Officer Carl Brashear, who leaves the farm in Kentucky in 1949 without much of an education and goes through some of the most intense training in the Navy, all while dealing with the prejudices you'd expect to see in a movie about this era.

Basic

If we're honest, Basic from 2003 isn't the best movie on this list. It might just be the worst, but it still has some pretty great training scenes, as the title of the movie implies. Should you seek it out? Probably not, but if you come across it and enjoy movies about military training, you might like it.

Cherry

2021's Cherry, directed by the Russo Brothers and starring Tom Holland as Cherry is more about the post-military life of a soldier suffering from PTSD and the crimes he commits. It does feature some great training scenes in the beginning though.

The D.I.

You may not be familiar with The D.I., but it is one of the defining movies of its genre. The movie features Dragnet star Jack Webb as a no-nonsense drill sergeant that in many ways is the template for how those roles have been played since The D.I. came out in 1957. It's not the best movie in its genre, but you can't deny it's influence.

In the Army Now

We wouldn't have a complete list without including the Pauly Shore "classic" In The Army Now. Sure, it's as dumb as you would expect from a Pauly Shore vehicle, but the training scenes are actually pretty decent, all things considered.

If you know me, you'd know I like Disney. In fact, I'd say I'm a pretty big Disney lover in general, from the Disney Renaissance movies to the CGI films of the 2010s. But you want to know what Disney is also fearless in doing? To get dark, super dark, and today, we're going to talk about the times when Disney dared to walk down that path.

When Lampwick Turned Into A Donkey (Pinocchio)

Oh, you knew that I would put this scene on here. Pinocchio is a pretty dark movie in a lot of different parts. Still, I literally had nightmares as a kid when I watched Lampwick turn into a donkey in front of Pinocchio on Pleasure Island. I still don't like to think about it.

When Alex's Family Completely Forgot Who She Is (The Wizards Of Waverly Place Movie)

I'll be the first to say that Wizards of Waverly Place stands up even as an adult, and the hilarious Disney Channel series is beloved by most. Still, the fact that Alex's family basically forgot who she was at the very end of the Wizards of Waverly Place movie really sat with me. I mean, it was her own doing for the spell she cast, but it still hurts that the film went that far.

When Mufasa Is Dropped Into A Stampede (The Lion King)

I'm pretty sure that, as kids, we all had nightmares after Scar betrayed his brother. While it's based on Shakespeare's real works, I think we all emotionally connected more with a brother betraying a brother, and Mufasa getting dropped into a stampede in the middle of Africa will always not sit right with me.

When Phineas And Ferb Are Sent Off To Reform School (Phineas And Ferb)

Phineas and Ferb is a great kids show to watch on Disney+ but the darkest it ever got was when Phineas and Ferb actually got busted and sent to reform school. Now, I know, on the surface, that doesn't seem that bad, but it's the fact that they were literally brainwashed in this episode. When would Disney Channel go that far?

When Tod Is Attacked By A Bear (The Fox And The Hound)

The Fox and the Hound start cute enough, but obviously, as Tod and Copper get older, they end up becoming enemies because of the natural order of things. But the darkest moment of this kid's movie is watching Tod get chased down by a bear and attacked. Like, oh my goodness, I did not need to see this as a child.

When Bambi's Mother Was Killed (Bambi)

We have to put Bambi here somewhere. The way Bambi's mother dies is a sad reality of life and hunting, and it is really only a matter of time. But that doesn't make the moment any less tragic when we see Bambi calling out for his mother, but she's not there.

When Wendy Is Literally Almost Dragged Into The Water(Peter Pan)

Peter Pan is a film with plenty of problematic elements, but one of the darkest moments features Wendy when the mermaids of Neverland tease her and then nearly drag her into the water. Like, this is a literal child. And she was almost harassed by mermaids, of all things.

When That Crazy Drunken Elephants Scene Happened (Dumbo)

Dumbo is honestly one of the most normal Disney movies out there because it features the story of circus animals. The only weird thing is Dumbo having big ears. But the film features this dark moment of Dumbo getting drunk and visualizing the most scary-looking elephants marching around in vibrant technicolor – look, if you watched the movie, you know what I'm talking about, you know it's scary.

When Tinker Bell Essentially Comes Close To Dying (Peter Pan 2: Return To Neverland)

A lot of people forget about the sequel to Peter Pan, which is expected since it was direct-to-DVD. However, when Wendy's daughter, Jane, doesn't believe in the magic of Neverland when she's taken there, Tinker Bell literally begins to lose her magic—so much so that she nearly dies. It's an unfortunate part of this film that still sticks with me to this day.

When Claude Frollo Sings "Hellfire" (The Hunchback of Notre Dame)

When I talk about the best Disney villain songs, "Hellfire" ranks high on that list, but that doesn't make the moment any less dark. The song is essentially how Judge Claude Frollo is absolutely obsessed with Esmerelda and wants to be with her (if you catch my drift). Still, if she refuses his advances, then she will be burned at the stake for daring to be defiant against him. Like, dang, Disney.

When Flynn Takes A Knife To The Heart (Tangled)

In comparison to some of the moments on this list, Flynn getting stabbed in the heart in Tangled doesn't seem nearly as bad, but it's still a dark moment. The way he falls to the ground as Rapunzel cradles him always gets me – but at least they have their happy moment at the end.

When We All Sobbed During The First Ten Minutes Of Up (Up)

I don't even need to write a whole paragraph about this. You know what I'm talking about. The rise and fall of Carl and Ellie will sit with us for the rest of our lives, from miscarriages to death alike. I am already getting sad thinking about it.

When We Saw All Those Dead Rats (Ratatouille)

Ratatouille is an underrated gem and one of the best Pixar films. But a part of me sometimes forgets this super dark moment when Remy's father decides to bring him to a shop to show him rat poisoning and traps – where dead rats hang in the window. Granted, it was to try and convince Remy to give up on his dream of being a cook with the humans, but it's still a very dark scene.

When It's Revealed What Really Happened To Hector In Coco (Coco)

Coco is a film that connects me to my Spanish heritage in more ways than one. One of those instances that made me realize how special this film was is that it wasn't afraid to take a risk. This twist, where we know that Ernesto de la Cruz actually poisoned Hector so he could take credit for all his songs, is bonkers and will make any first-time viewer's mouth drop in shock.

When Tadashi Was Exploded (Big Hero 6)

I mean, yeah, I had to put Tadashi on here. Hiro had already lost his parents earlier in life and now his big brother is suddenly taken from him in this giant lab explosion that was caused out of pure selfishness (as we find out later in the film from the villain). It's so sad.

When Mulan Suddenly Stops It's Songs When It Reaches The Destroyed Village (Mulan)

Mulan is one of those movies that, when you watch it for the first time, will stick with you for the rest of your life. The film is filled with catchy songs for the first fifty minutes or so, and then "A Girl Worth Fighting For" suddenly cuts off at the very end as the army stumbles upon a destroyed village. It's chilling and perfectly well done but still so dark.

When The Literal Apocalypse Happened In The Finale (Gravity Falls)

I'll be honest and say that Gravity Falls was a show that was after my time of loving Disney Channel. Still, I had to put this moment – that the end of a Disney Channel animated series literally has the finale going through the apocalypse. I'm sorry, what? This is Disney, right?

When Jafar Was Blatently Attracted To A 15-Year-Old Girl (Aladdin)

We sometimes forget that a lot of the Disney princesses are literal teenagers in most of these movies because they're so mature half the time, but Jafar and Jasmine in Aladdin are the worst. Jafar is blatantly attracted to Jasmine in the film and wants to marry her for power, but she is actually fifteen. Someone call the police, please.

When The Toys Were About To Get Burned To Death (Toy Story 3)

Toy Story 3 was initially created as a cap to the Toy Story movies before the fourth film was conceived, so having this scene was wild. The toys, who are in a garbage plant thanks to Lotso, are nearly burned alive by an incinerator. They are all holding hands and waiting for their demise. Thankfully, at the last moment, the little green aliens come in and save them with the giant claw that picks up trash, but god, that was a close one, huh?

When Hades Wanted To Kill A Child (Hercules)

Look, Hercules is underrated in so many ways, and Hades is a hilarious villain, but there's a reason why he is a villain in this movie. He wants to kill Hercules at the beginning and gets his minions to do so by using a vial of poison, but Hercules ends up only drinking most of it, not all, so he just loses his godlike immortality.

When Belle Was Chased By Wolves (Beauty And The Beast)

We all glamorize Beauty and the Beast a little too much because there were plenty of dark moments in that movie, and one of the biggest was when wolves chased Belle. I know, in the grand scheme of things, that it’s not super dark, but it's still scary for a kid to watch a Disney princess get chased down by wolves and nearly die.

When We Saw All Of Sid's Horrifying Creations (Toy Story)

Toy Story featured probably some of the most disgusting creations I had ever seen when we first noticed Sid's fascination with destroying toys and molding them into new ones. As the movie continues, we do see that even these strange concoctions have souls of their own, but man, they are still freaky as heck.

When Dr. Facilier Was Dragged To Hell By Demons (The Princess And The Frog)

There's a lot that I love about The Princess and the Frog, including Tiana being the best Disney princess, but I think we sometimes forget just how dark Dr. Facilier was. This man works with the literal souls of the underworld to gain power, and when he falls flat on his deal, he is dragged through a grave down to hell. Yup, it can't really get darker than that.

When Gaston Fell To His Death (Beauty And The Beast)

There are plenty of great villain deaths in the world of Disney, but Gaston's is honestly one that is pretty dark. We don't necessarily see his head hit the pavement, but we do see Gaston fall to his death when he and the Beast are facing off.

When Esteban Gets Possessed (The Suite Life Of Zack And Cody)

The Suite Life of Zack and Cody is a great series overall, but even I'll admit that this episode, where Esteban (a hotel bellboy) and the twins are trying to contact the dead, is scary as hell and dark for Disney. They do so well in contacting the dead that a spirit takes over Esteban. What? That never happens.

When Wall-E Nearly Forgot Who Everyone Was (Wall-E)

Wall-E is a film that feels a little too real nowadays with how global warming has changed our world, and the movie itself can be super dark if you look at it. But to me, the darkest moment was at the very end when I thought Wall-E was reset to his factory settings and forgot all about Eve and everything that happened. Thankfully, her spark brings back his memory, so it all works out, but man, that was a close one!

When An Evil Force Begins To Take Over And Turn Everyone Into Monsters (Halloweentown)

Halloweentown is my favorite non-scary Halloween movie because it's so homey and rings in the season in a great way. Still, there's no denying that the idea of an evil force – not even just a spirit, but a malevolent force – taking over an entire town is dark for Disney Channel DCOM standards.

When Clayton Accidentally Hangs Himself (Tarzan)

Tarzan is a film that I think a lot of us forget about (except for Phil Collins' great score), but let's not forget the dark moment when the villain, Clayton, literally accidentally kills himself. He's struggling with vines as he's in the final fight but falls to the ground, and ultimately, we see the vines wrapped around his neck and the shadow of his hanging body not that long after.

When Bing Bong Sacrificed Himself (Inside Out)

The world has never forgiven Pixar for sacrificing Bing Bong in Inside Out. I mean, look at him. He didn't deserve that. Bing Bong deserves his freedom, but he lets himself get erased in Riley's mind so Joy can get out and make Riley happy again. Gosh, I'm getting tears thinking about it.

When Scar Is Eaten By His Own Followers (The Lion King)

Scar is a dastardly villain, but his demise is even darker than what he has done. The hyenas who have followed him for the whole movie turn on the lion at the very end, and we see them tear him apart in the shadows, bit by bit, eaten because they are hungry now.

When The House Turns Into A Prison (Smart House)

In a world where we live with Alexas and smart devices galore, the twist of Smart House feels all too real. The film itself was a Disney Channel film about a home with a robotic attendant who turns the house into a prison. I mean…not for nothing, but AI is scary, and this film feels a little too real.

When Marlan's Wife Was Killed In The Opening Minutes Of Finding Nemo (Finding Nemo)

I think everyone who saw Finding Nemo as a kid was shocked to death when they watched the first minutes. We don't actually see Marlan's wife getting eaten, but we know she's gone in the moments after, when there's just one egg left and Marlan is all alone.

These are just some of the dark moments I instantly think of when it comes to Disney – but trust me, there are plenty more. I think it's time for a Disney marathon – and for me to enjoy every second of it while also getting creeped out at these dark moments.

Considering James Hong’s hundreds of acting credits across his 70-year career, there’s a very high chance you’ve experienced the 95-year-old’s talent. Yet, I don’t feel like we talk about the prolific character actor’s career enough. That became abundantly clear to me after speaking to Hong about his voiceover experiences as he reprises his role in the animated Gremlins series.

CinemaBlend spoke to James Hong and Ming-Na Wen about returning for the second season of the Gremlins series, which is available to stream with a Max subscription. They both reflected on their careers as voice actors, and Ming-Na Wen shared with us how her perspective on voiceover has changed since her first experience on Mulan. Here’s what James Hong shared about his history in the vocal booth:

Talk about an incredible debut in voiceover acting! James Hong was an English voice in the first English-language Godzilla movie, and it sounds like he remembers it like it was yesterday. The actor has an incredible Hollywood career that began after he served in the Minnesota Army National Guard as a young man. He was asked to be in charge of the camp’s live shows instead of being deployed to Korea.

After the war, Hong moved to Los Angeles where he split his time between being a road engineer and acting in his time off. It wasn’t long before he became part of 1956's Godzilla, King of the Monsters!

As James Hong recalled, voiceover acting was a lot more casual at the time. In his words:

There’s a lot to celebrate about James Hong’s career, between his role as Mr. Ping in all the Kung Fu Panda movies to being in Big Trouble In Little China (he was one of those actors that really was everywhere in the '80s and '90s in particular) to Best Picture winner, Everything Everywhere All At Once. It’s so interesting to hear about how his first voiceover role shook out, and how he’s seen the industry change in recent years. As he continued:

Hollywood has changed a lot since James Hong got his start back in the 1950s, but as he spoke to, Asian stories are getting more of a spotlight than ever. From the first Asian lead on The Bachelorette earlier this year to the commercial success of a movie like Crazy Rich Asians, Hong has seen some major growth from his early days in Hollywood. In the interview, he also said he plans to speak further on his life through a memoir.

Also, Gremlins stars a predominantly Asian cast that includes George Takei as the main villain and the talents of Simu Liu, Jimmy O. Yang, BD Wong and Izaac Wang. You can check out the first five episodes of Season 2 now on Max, with the rest of the season to come at a later date on the 2024 TV schedule.

Over the years, Ming-Na Wen has established herself as an iconic action hero in her own right, between her roles in Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D and The Mandalorian. Her most iconic role continues to be the voice behind one of the most beloved Disney Princesses: Mulan. As the actress reprises her voice role on the Gremlins series, she spoke to CinemaBlend about how her comfort in the vocal booth has changed since starring in the movie over 25 years ago.

When Ming-Na Wen joined Disney’s Mulan for the 1998 film, she had gotten her start in live-action films like The Joy Luck Club and Street Fighter. In our interview, the actress reflected on what it was like to voice an animated character for that role. In her words:

That’s right. While the experience of voicing an animated movie sounds like a dream job, as Wen spoke to, it can also be a rather isolating experience where a lot of imagination has to come into play. She didn’t have her star-studded cast like Eddie Murphy, BD Wong, Pat Morita or James Hong next to her during performances. Oftentimes it was just her and someone reading all the other lines to her. She continued:

Wen is back to voice Fong Wing, the mother of Sam, in Season 2 of the Gremlins series after the series began in 2023 with Secrets of the Mogwai. This time around, in what’s titled The Wild Batch, the actress reprises her supporting role, but she’s even joined by some Mulan cast members. James Hong was Chi Fu in the Disney movie, and he plays Sam’s grandfather, who often speaks of adventures he used to take. BD Wong, who played Mulan’s love interest of Shang Li, plays her husband Hon Wing. While Wen doesn’t get to work with them face to face, it’s a sweet reunion, isn’t it?

In the new Gremlins season, Sam’s parents and grandfather will take a backseat to the storyline as Sam, Elle and Gizmo find themselves in San Francisco for a new adventure. But during the interview, Wen shared that the band will be “back together again” for the second half which will take the Wing family, Gizmo and Elle in the American West.

You can watch the first five episodes of Gremlins: The Wild Batch right now with a Max subscription. Check out what Joe Dante and the producers of Gremlins told us about Gizmo returning to live action.

The best kids movies appeal to both older and younger audiences, assuring an enjoyable experience for the whole family. However, to achieve this, sometimes Hollywood incorporates certain jokes, themes, or even entire plot lines that are not appealing to kids at all and might leave them speaking with a colorful new vocabulary, making jokes way above their age level, or even traumatized for life. The following are a few examples of some notable, beloved children’s movies that, looking back, we might have been too young for.

The Hunchback Of Notre Dame (1996)

Had it existed back then, The Hunchback of Notre Dame could have won the Best Animated Feature Oscar for being a very compelling period drama set in 15th-Century Paris. However, the story of the Disney classic — based on Victor Hugo’s dark novel involving an anomalous man nearly killed as an infant and an elderly priest (reimagined as a judge in the film) uncomfortably and passionately obsessed with a young dancer — is not particularly ideal for children’s entertainment at its core.

Willy Wonka And The Chocolate Factory (1971) 

For years, fans have been re-analyzing Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory and coming up with wild fan theories to darken the scrumdiddlyumptious classic, but why bother? The film’s dark themes are spelled out for us pretty clearly, especially in the infamous tunnel sequence when the titular chocolatier (played by Gene Wilder) recites a foreboding poem as unsettling images appear around the boat full of passengers.

The Brave Little Toaster (1987)

Before there was Toy Story, the ultimate animated adventure about sentient inanimate objects was The Brave Little Toaster, in which a group of old appliances set out to find their “master” after being left at a woodland cabin. The great thing about this classic is that it teaches children to be more compassionate and sentimental, but it does so through very upsetting means, depicting the cruel treatment of our innocent protagonists.

Labyrinth (1986)

Director Jim Henson’s cult favorite fantasy, Labyrinth, is already pretty dark with its creepy puppetry and plot involving a kidnapped infant. However, it is the predatory undertones of David Bowie's character, Goblin King Jareth, when interacting with Jennifer Conolly's young protagonist, Sarah, that really makes it hard to recommend to anyone under 13.

Pinocchio (1940)

Because most fairy tales are also cautionary tales, the sight of Pinocchio smoking a cigar after running away to Pleasure Island does not bother us too much. It is the way the titular, enchanted puppet from the Disney classic learns his lesson — seeing other runaway children transformed into donkeys — that leaves us wondering if this story takes its teachable moment a little too far.

One Hundred And One Dalmatians (1961)

Watching dogs save the day in One Hundred and One Dalmatians is what makes the animated film such a rewarding and joyful experience. However, when you consider the fact that these Dalmatians are forced to spring into action because Cruella de Vil wants to skin the spotted puppies for her own fur coat, it makes one hesitant to show it to any younger canine lovers.

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (1968)

It would be childish of us to think that this musical adaptation of Ian Fleming’s children's novel, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, is inappropriate because of the title alone. Our concern is the fact that it takes place in a land called "Vulgaria" and one of its extremely discomforting main villains is literally referred to as the "Child Catcher.”

Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988)

There is an argument to be made that Who Framed Roger Rabbit was never even intended for children in the first place and only earned its PG rating because they were more common at the time, let alone the fact that many of the characters are animated. Even then, this murder mystery story featuring a cigar-smoking baby with racy dialogue, a hard-drinking protagonist, and a sultry femme fatale (Kathleen Turner's Jessica Rabbit) would have never been PG in this day and age.

The Goonies (1985)

Director Richard Donner and producer Steven Spielberg’s enduring cult favorite, The Goonies, offer a relatively accurate depiction of what might happen if a group of children tried to live out their adventurous fantasies for real. The result includes a great deal of swearing, violence, innuendoes, and constant peril that younger viewers should find distressing.

The Incredibles (2004)

Because it is an animated Disney property and one of Pixar’s best films, we often forget that Brad Bird’s The Incredibles is one of the darkest superhero movies of its time. If the action thriller was not animated, its violence (which involves children) and other various adult elements would have surely cost it its PG rating. 

How The Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

Ron Howard’s big-screen attempt at adapting a Dr. Seuss book into a live-action feature, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, has quite a bit of crude humor and a certain mean-spirited tone that the author is certainly not known for. One particular moment that surely went over younger viewers' heads is the scene when the infant Grinch (played as an adult by Jim Carrey) lands at the home of his adoptive mothers, where they are clearly throwing a swingers' party.

The Shrek Movies (2001-2010)

Watching all the Shrek movies is an almost entirely different experience for grown-ups than it is for children with mature jokes and references throughout. For instance, the first installment features Shrek’s (Mike Myers) comment about Lord Farquaad “compensating for something” with his large castle or a fairy tale-style recreation of O.J. Simpson's low-speed chase in 2004’s Shrek 2.

Mulan (1998)

As a film that takes place during a war, violence is to be expected, but is also handled in an impressively tame manner in Mulan. However, what people often tend to forget is how much partial nudity is in this animated Disney classic, particularly when the titular hero (voiced by Ming-Na Wen), posing as a man, is bathing in a lake and his suddenly joined by her fellow, male soldiers.

Ratatouille (2007)

Brad Bird’s Ratatouille is a delicious family treat, but not without its indulgences in adult humor. One notable scene from Pixar's culinary comedy sees Alfredo Linguini (Lou Romano) begin to confess about Remy (Patton Oswalt) to Colette (Janeane Garofalo), he begins by saying, "I have a tiny, little…,” at which point she darts her eyes below his belt.

The LEGO Batman Movie (2017)

Honestly, we believe that one of the things that makes The LEGO Batman Movie just as good as any live-action Batman movie is its more mature, but very clever, jokes. For instance, when Bruce Wayne (Will Arnett) first meets the young man who will be his ward and sidekick, the boy (voiced by Michael Cera) says his name is Richard Grayson, but most people call him "Dick," to which the aristocrat replies, "Well, children can be cruel."

Hocus Pocus (1993)

While certainly one of the more lighthearted movies about witches ever made, because of wall-to-wall innuendos and themes of child murder, calling Hocus Pocus a family movie is a bit of a stretch. Constant mentions of Max Dennison’s (Omri Katz) innocence (the reason why the Black Flame Candle successfully brings back the Sanderson Sisters) and a suggestive exchange between the witches and a bus driver are just a few notable examples.

Monster House (2006)

With a title like Monster House, you’d assume children should not be admitted anyway, but the horror elements are not really anything to be concerned by. However, the not-so-scary favorite does include moments of underage drinking, a reference to Chowder's mother's potential infidelity with her "personal trainer," and Chowder asking if they are in a "girl house" after Jenny calls a chandelier its "uvula."

Bee Movie (2007)

We suppose we should have realized that an animated movie co-written by and starring Jerry Seinfeld was not going to be just for the children. However, who could have expected that Seinfeld’s Bee Movie character — an insect named Barry B. Barrington — would have a crush on a human named Vanessa (Renée Zellweger) and that this strange interspecies romance would be expressed through many bizarre innuendoes?

Scooby-Doo (2002)

Writer James Gunn has said there exists an R-rated cut of Scooby-Doo — the live-action adaptation of the classic cartoon — and signs of that can be found throughout. Among them is the moment when Shaggy (Matthew Lillard) tells Mary-Jane (Isla Fisher) that she has his "favorite name" and when Freddy (Freddie Prinze Jr.), accidentally inhabiting Daphne's (Sarah Michelle Gellar) body, relishes in the ability to look at himself without clothing.

The Road To El Dorado (2000)

The influence of Bob Hope, Bing Crosby, and Dorothy Lamour’s Road to… franchise in DreamWorks’ The Road to El Dorado is clear, right down to the off-beat and often suggestive humor. The most significant and often debated example from the animated film is when Chel (Rosie Perez) seduces Tulio (Kevin Kline), leading to a love scene that is offscreen, but easily heard.

Tarzan (1999)

It is pretty surprising when you remember that Disney’s animated version of Edgar Rice Burroughs’ Tarzan is rated G as the violence is actually quite visceral. It is even more disturbing when it is subtle, such as in Clayton’s death scene, when the silhouette of him being hung by the neck with vines can be spotted.

All Dogs Go To Heaven (1989)

The movie may be called All Dogs Go to Heaven, but there is one scene when Charlie (voiced by Burt Reynolds) visits the opposite end of the afterlife. That is only one pivotal, disturbing moment from the fantasy classic by animation legend Don Bluth, whose entire filmography has its fair share of nightmare fuel. 

Zootopia (2016)

There is a pretty funny and cleverly subtle adult joke from Zootopia that both kids and grown-ups may have missed. At one point, Judy (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin) says, "I am just a dumb bunny, but we are good at multiplying.”

The Witches (1990)

One of the most sinister and truly grotesque depictions of witches — especially Anjelica Huston’s Eva Ernst — comes from a film intended as a “family picture.” Roald Dahl himself even agreed that director Nicolas Roeg’s adaptation of his 1983 novel, The Witches, was a little too scary for his taste.

Antz (1998)

DreamWorks' Antz is often considered the unintentional twin of Pixar's A Bugs Life, but the latter is far different, especially in terms of its genuine appeal to younger audiences. If it were not an animated film about insects, its innuendos, swearing, and plot involving a genocidal conspiracy would have easily earned it a PG-13 rating, at least.

The SpongeBob Squarepants Movie (2004)

The beloved animated TV show SpongeBob Squarepants has been criticized for a number of mature jokes and its 2004 movie spin-off is absolutely no exception and, in fact, far clearer to detect. To name just a few notable examples, SpongeBob (voiced by Tom Kenny) and Patrick (Bill Fagerbakke) get hammered from ice cream at a bar,  the duo later gets launched back to Bikini Bottom by David Hasselhoff's pectorals, and Patrick dons fish nets during SpongeBob's performance of "Goofy Goober Rock."

Rango (2011)

There are plenty of jokes aimed toward the parents who took their children to the Oscar-winning Rango. For instance, when Johnny Depp's titular chameleon introduces his gang as a troupe of "thespians," one of the prairie dogs says, "That's illegal in seven states,” obviously confusing the word for, “lesbians.”

Mr. Peabody & Sherman (2014)

Based on special segments from the original animated series, The Adventures of Rocky and Bulwinkle and Friends, Mr. Peabody & Sherman sees the titular duo — a highly intelligent dog (voiced by Ty Burrell) and his adoptive human son (voiced by Max Charles) — accidentally cause a rip in the space-time continuum, which lands them in trouble. Luckily, George Washington and Abraham Lincoln agree to pardon Mr. Peabody, at which point — in the animated family film’s racist joke — Bill Clinton shows up to say, "I've done worse."

The Aristocats (1970)

When Disney+ started putting a content warning in front of older movies that contained insensitive or negatively stereotypical content, one such title was The Aristocrats. The animated film — which some still believe deserves a live-action remake — does, indeed, contain some insensitive racial stereotypes, as evident by how East Asian culture is depicted in “The Siamese Cat Song.”

Inside Out (2015)

There are many mature themes throughout Inside Out that are important for younger viewers to witness, but then there are some more humorous moments that likely go over their heads. For instance, when Fear wonders if Riley saw a bear and Disgust assures none in exist in San Francisco, Anger recalls seeing a hairy man who resembled a bear, in reference to a term from LGBTQ+ culture.

The Cat In The Hat (2003)

About 99.9 percent of the humor in star Mike Myers’ almost universally reviled adaptation of Dr. Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat — following two siblings’ (played by Spencer Breslin and Dakota Fanning) adventures with a giant feline — is of the crudest, most crass, and most inappropriate kind. We could fill this entire list with examples, but we’ll just settle for the moment when The Cat calls a gardening tool a “dirty hoe.”

Cars (2006)

There are a quite a few overtly mature references in Pixar's Cars, such as when Lightning McQueen (voiced by Owen Wilson) gets “flashed” by a couple of fans who put on their high beams. Or, what about when Lightning walks in on Doc Hudson's (Paul Newman) surgery on the Sheriff or when he tells everyone Doc Hudson has three Piston Cups, to which Mater (Larry the Cable Guy) asks, "He did what in his cup?"

If you see no harm in showing these films to your children, we will not stop nor judge you. All we are asking is that you give it a little thought before you.

For over a century now, Walt Disney Animation Studios has given audiences some of the most beloved, groundbreaking, and majestic cinematic experiences. During that time, those timeless films have introduced us to unforgettable movie villains, sidekicks, and heroes that have withstood the test of time and found a permanent place in the hearts of billions of fans. But sometimes, those iconic princesses and knights in shining armor aren’t the real heroes of their respective stories.

That being said, here are the REAL heroes and unsung champions, from some of the best Disney animated movies…

Anna (Frozen)

There are countless reasons why Princess Anna is the true hero of Frozen, and a lot of those have to do with the younger sister of Queen Elsa actually being a great inspiration for younger viewers. She opens up about her feelings, accepts the call to adventure, and is willing to do anything and everything to help out those she cares about, even if it means sacrificing herself.

Abu (Aladdin)

In addition to being one of the best Disney sidekicks of all time, Abu is actually a pretty righteous hero in Aladdin, one who always stays true to himself and his friends. Sure, his greed nearly kills him and Aladdin, but he comes through moments later when he tricks Jafar and steals the magic lamp, which leads to Genie coming out of his lamp.

Baloo (The Jungle Book)

Baloo is not only one of the best Disney characters of all time, but he’s also a great hero throughout The Jungle Book. The iconic sloth bear goes above and beyond to help Mowgli on his journey to find the “Man-Village,” teaches him some great lessons and a legendary song along the way, and comes through for everyone time and time again.

Widow Tweed (The Fox And The Hound)

There’s a lot to love about the classic Disney animated film, The Fox and the Hound, but the character who continues to rise to the occasion is Widow Tweed. From finding and caring for a young Tod to saving multiple characters from certain death to being the voice of reason in some tense situations, this lovable elderly character is simply the best.

Nani Pelekai (Lilo & Stitch)

Go back and watch Lilo & Stitch as an adult and see if your opinions on Nani, Lilo’s older sister and guardian, have changed. Throughout this 2002 animated film, Nani does everything she can to make life better for her younger sister, even if that means pushing herself to the limit (and then some) or trying to pull off the impossible. She’s a hero, that’s for sure.

Rafiki (The Lion King)

Who never gives up hope for Simba in The Lion King? Rafiki, that’s who. The shaman and advisor for the late Mufasa is one of Simba’s biggest supporters and was there for him as a young cub and as an adult when he returned from his self-imposed exile away from the Pride Lands. And he puts a whooping on some hyenas, which never gets old.

Scuttle (The Little Mermaid)

Sure Scuttle doesn’t know what he’s talking about half the time in The Little Mermaid, but the seagull and friend of Ariel helps the young princess learn more about the human world before helping in a big way when he discovers that Vanessa is actually Ursula in disguise. 

Pacha (The Emperor's New Groove)

Pacha in The Emperor’s New Groove is an underappreciated hero if we’ve ever seen one, so it’s about time he receives some praise. Putting up with Kuzco is enough to earn Pacha a place in the halls of great Disney heroes, but he does so much more than that throughout the movie. Constantly putting himself before others, taking care of himself in a fight, and being a supportive friend are also admirable qualities.

Thumper (Bambi)

Besides the titular deer in Bambi, no character is more impactful or important than Thumper. More than 80 years after the film’s release, fans still celebrate the iconic rabbit for his go-getter personality, leadership skills, and seemingly limitless energy. If it weren’t for him, who knows what would have happened to Bambi.

Charlotte 'Lottie' La Bouff (The Princess And The Frog)

When it comes to best friends in Disney movies, few come close to Charlotte “Lottie” La Bouff in The Princess and the Frog. Instead of using her family’s wealth, power, and influence in menacing or vindictive ways, this southern belle uses her blessings to offer support and love for Tiana and her dreams. We could all use a friend like that.

The Mice (Cinderella)

When it comes to mico-heroes, no names carry as much weight as Jaq and Gus from Disney’s Cinderella. Throughout this 1950 animated classic, these two trusty mice help lead the show when it comes to fixing up Cinderella’s dress, supporting her, and helping make her dreams of attending the ball come true. And who helps save Cinderella from her stepmother’s captivity? Yep, these fearless mice.

Colonel, Sergeant Tibbs, And Other Animals (One Hundred And One Dalmatians)

Heroes come in all shapes and sizes in One Hundred and One Dalmatians, and some of the best examples of this can be found in Colonel, Sergeant Tibbs, and the other animals who help save the pups and defeat Curella Cruella de Vil by thwarting her masterplan. The way these four-legged (and sometimes winged) characters get everyone involved is nothing short of magical. 

Nana (Peter Pan)

One of the movie dogs we want to adopt, Nana in Peter Pan is a character that’s always down to offer some support. Though she doesn’t journey off to Never Land with Pan and the Darling children, she holds the fort down in their absence. Speaking of Wendy, John, and Michael Darling, who is it that takes care of the children every night and gives them much-needed medicine? Yep, it’s Nana, the trusty nursemaid St. Bernard.

The Dwarfs (Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs)

Doc, Grumpy, Happy, Sleepy, Bashful, Sneezy, and Dopey are some of the earliest examples of Disney heroes, and nearly 90 years later, they’re still some of the best. Sure, the Prince gets a lot of credit in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, but it’s these classic characters who take care of the young princess the rest of the time.

Pascal (Tangled)

Rapunzel is empowering and Flynn Rider is dashing, but let’s not forget the real hero of Tangled… Pascal. Despite his small size and stature (he is a chameleon, for crying out loud), this feisty and fearless lizard will do anything and everything to serve and protect the princess. Whether it means putting on a pink dress or tripping Gothel and sending her falling out of Rapunzel’s tower, he’s going to get it done.

The Fairies (Sleeping Beauty)

The Three Good Fairies (Flora, Fauna, and Merryweather) are crucial to Princess Aurora’s survival in Sleeping Beauty, and they don’t always receive enough credit. From altering Maleficent’s curse upon Aurora at her birth to planning her birthday dress later on, these three fairies get a lot done… once they stop fighting one another.

Archdeacon (The Hunchback Of Notre Dame)

If it wasn’t for Archdeacon in The Hunchback of Notre Dame, who knows what that loathsome and depraved Claude Frollo would have planned for everyone around him. The voice of reason with a heart and soul of pure gold, this clergyman saves multiple lives and thwarts diabolical plans like it’s nothing. 

Archimedes (The Sword In The Stone)

When it comes to heroes in The Sword in the Stone, the first names to come up are probably Arthur or Merlin. And while both of those characters are great, let’s not forget Archimedes, the talking and trustworthy owl who helps both legendary figures along the way. Seriously, this wise owl is constantly coming through for his king.

Fix-It Felix (Ralph Breaks The Internet)

Though he’s not in the movie all that much, Fix-It Felix is still heroic as can be in Ralph Breaks the Internet. But when he and Calhoun are on screen, they’re stealing the show and offering both hilarious and tender moments. Come on, who else would adopt all those orphaned Sugar Rush racers when they have no place to go?

Little Noi (Raya And The Last Dragon)

You could argue that every character in Raya and the Last Dragon is a hero in their own right, but Lille Noi, the toddler con artist who joins Raya on her journey, has to be at the top of the list. Though other characters do go through changes along the way, the adorable Noi has one of the most transformative and emotional arcs of them all.

The Enchantress (Beauty And The Beast)

The Enchantress could be seen as a villain in Beauty and the Beast, but the young and vain prince wouldn’t have learned his lesson if not for her lesson about true beauty in the opening chapter of the movie. A lot of people got turned into clocks, cups, and candelabras in the process, but sometimes tough love is all that’s needed.

Li Shang (Mulan)

Nothing against the titular heroine of Mulan, but let’s not act like Li Shang is some chump put in charge of a regiment of outcasts and misfits. He never gives up, he kicks a lot of butts, and gave us one of the best Disney songs of the late 20th century with “I’ll Make a Man out of You.” 

Kala (Tarzan)

If we could give this honor to Phil Collins for his Tarzan soundtrack, he’d be at the top of this list. But since he’s not in the movie, we can’t go without celebrating Kala, Tarzan’s adoptive gorilla mom. When everyone sees the young human as a freak or threat, this grieving mother rises to the occasion and takes him in as one of her own.

Olaf (Frozen 2)

There’s a case to be made for Olaf being the biggest hero of both Frozen movies as he’s constantly accepting the call of adventure, protecting his friends, and putting himself on the line to make sure the job is done. Sure, he’s mostly around for comedic relief during tense moments, but this snowman is the man!

Toby (The Great Mouse Detective)

The Great Mouse Detective is a Disney movie that doesn’t come up all that often these days, which is a shame because it features one of the best pooches of all time: Toby, Sherlock Holmes’ Basset Hound. This incredibly smart and crafty dog is key to Basil, Dawson and Olivia’s quest and provides for some impactful discoveries. But would you expect any less from the world’s greatest detective’s best friend?

Piglet (The Many Adventures Of Winnie The Pooh)

Piglet is pretty much the underdog of the Hundred Acre Wood in The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh and is often caught in the middle of some issue or misadventure. However, this doesn’t mean he’s any less heroic. In fact, there’s an argument to be made for him being an unsung hero of the group as he is often an inspiration for them all, as well as for us watching at home.

Princess Kida (Atlantis: The Lost Empire)

Atlantis: The Lost Empire isn’t one of the top Disney movies, but it is one that features a rather underappreciated hero, or heroine, as is the case with Kida. The princess of the lost city deep under the ocean, Kida proves time and time again she’s not a damsel in distress, but instead a fearless warrior with a heart of gold and nerves of steel.

Philoctetes (Hercules)

We’d all love to see Danny DeVito return for a live-action Hercules movie because we just can’t get enough of his satyr character, Philoctetes. Though he doesn’t have the strength or height of the movie’s titular hero, “Phil,” as he likes to be called, is a great teacher and trainer who helps the demigod prepare for his hero’s journey. And what good is a hero who doesn’t know how to make the most of his abilities?

Baymax (Big Hero 6)

One of the most fun and exciting Disney animated movies in recent memory, Big Hero 6 is a treat from top to bottom. A lot of that is because of Baymax, the childlike inflatable healthcare robot who helps Hiro Hamada find his place in the world and then go and save it. He doesn’t have great communication skills but this robot has a lot of tricks up his sleeve.

Flit (Pocahontas)

Flit, Pocahontas’ pet hummingbird, isn’t the biggest, strongest, or most intimidating hero in the Disney universe, but he’s definitely one of the most protective and courageous. Throughout Pocahontas, the colorful bird doesn’t let his size, or lack thereof, stop him from serving his best friend. Is he a little too overprotective? Yeah, but he’s got heart.

Jiminy Cricket (Pinocchio)

What would have happened to Pinocchio if Jiminy Cricket wasn’t around to keep him in line? Well, you could say that the classic character from Disney’s Pinocchio doesn’t always get the job done, but he tries, and that’s what really counts. And, he’s not big on lying.

Prince Philip (Sleeping Beauty)

From following his heart to saving Princess Aurora from an eternal rest to fighting Maleficent and her goons in Sleeping Beauty, there’s a lot to love about Prince Phillip. This courageous character helped set the standard for Disney heroes back in the 1950s.

These characters are heroes in their own way. While some are more courageous, stronger, or more eager than others, they all have a lot of heart and the best of intentions.

When all-time great movie stars are discussed, Eddie Murphy should really be in the conversation, and for good reason. The seasoned actor and comedian has headlined some of the most iconic films in the history of cinema. While he definitely knows how to hit viewers’ funny bones, he’s also been lauded for his dramatic work. It would be an understatement to say that Murphy has produced an impressive body of work throughout his illustrious career. Luckily, many of his famous movies are available to watch, and we’re going to talk about them.

48 Hrs. (1982)

While the comic was a superstar on Saturday Night Live by the time he booked his first film, 48 Hrs., he wasn’t a proven movie star. Ultimately though, he more than made his mark through his performance as Reggie Hammond in the early ‘80s buddy comedy. Walter Hill’s gritty and funny flick sees Nick Nolte play rumpled cop Jack Cates, who must team up Hammond, a witty convict, to catch a pair of criminals under the titular amount of time. This movie delivers plenty of thrills, but it also serves up a considerable amount of laughs, many of which come courtesy of the SNL vet.

Stream 48 Hrs. on Paramount+.
Stream 48 Hrs. on The Roku Channel.

Trading Places (1983)

Another one of the actor’s earliest (and funniest) features is the John Landis-directed Trading Places. This humorous tale centers on two men – one a wealthy commodities trader (Dan Aykroyd) and the other a poor con artist (Eddie Murphy). Their lives are turned upside down when, unbeknownst to them, a pair of sibling tycoons have them swap lifestyles as part of their personal game. This all amounts to a funny film that even provides a bit of commentary on capitalism and social class. And, of course, Murphy (who showed up late to set one day) is perfect, as are Jamie Lee Curtis, Denholm Elliot and the rest of the cast.

Stream Trading Places on Philo.
Rent/Buy Trading Places on Amazon Prime Video.

Beverly Hills Cop (1984)

Even if you’ve never seen Beverly Hills Cop before, chances are you’ve at least heard of this Jerry Bruckheimer-produced classic. After Sylvester Stallone walked away from the production, Martin Brest’s beloved flick thrust Eddie Murphy into the role of Axel Foley. The film centers on Foley, a Detroit native, who travels to the eponymous town to track down the man responsible for his friend’s murder and teams up with some local officers. 

Murphy is pure dynamite in this one, which is why Axel is one of cinema’s most iconic characters. This is simply one of the best buddy cop flicks ever made, as it has a strong script, an A+ cast, impressive action sequences and pitch-perfect music.

Stream Beverly Hills Cop on Paramount+.
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Eddie Murphy Raw (1987)

Though he became a movie star, the entertainer didn’t leave his stand-up comedy roots right away. In fact, several years after headlining his iconic Delirious special, the A-lister took his act to the big screen via Eddie Murphy Raw. Directed by fellow comedian, Robert Townsend, the flick sees Murphy talking about a wide array of topics, including sex, relationships, childhood growing pains and more. 

The well-reviewed production was a hit upon its release and as of this writing, is still the highest grossing stand-up comedy film of all time. It may not quite reach the comedic heights of Murphy’s 1983 set, but it’s still a good (and raunchy) time.

Stream Eddie Murphy Raw on Paramount+.
Stream Eddie Murphy Raw on Pluto TV.

Coming To America (1988)

Coming to America may be the most iconic credit that the actor has to his name, and that’s saying a lot. This riotous, highly quotable (and rewatchable) comedy reunites the leading man with director John Landis. It sees the Best Defense alum take on the role of Prince Akeem of Zamunda, who travels to New York City’s Queens to find a wife. You’d be hard pressed to find a funnier fish-out-of-water story than this one. Amid the dirty humor, there’s also a true warmth to this one, and it’s easily one of the best romantic comedies of all time.

Stream Coming to America on Paramount+.
Stream Coming to America on Pluto TV.
Stream Coming to America on Hulu.

Harlem Nights (1989)

Eddie Murphy hit a major milestone with Harlem Nights, as it's the first (and as of right now, only) movie he’s ever directed. The period dramedy, which Murphy also wrote, is about nightclub owners seeking to defend their establishment from gangsters and corrupt cops in 1930s New York. 

There’s a murderer’s row of talent on display in this one, as Murphy is joined by the likes of Richard Pryor, Redd Foxx, Della Reese, Charlie Murphy, Robin Harris, Arsenio Hall and more. While not a critical or box office darling, it has arguably remained a fan favorite due to its stellar cast and humorously memorable scenes.

Stream Harlem Nights on Paramount+.
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Boomerang (1992)

An incredibly underrated rom-com, Boomerang is, in some ways, one of the more overlooked titles within the Oscar nominee’s massive body of work. Reginald Hudlin’s comically romantic tale has Mr. Murphy playing a successful playboy executive, who gets a taste of his own medicine after he meets his female equivalent (Robin Givens). This charming movie sports a talented supporting cast composed of Halle Berry, David Alan Grier, Martin Lawrence, Chris Rock, Grace Jones and Eartha Kitt. If you’re looking to laugh and feel a bit fuzzy inside, this is for you.

Stream Boomerang on Paramount+.
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The Nutty Professor (1996)

Another staple of Murphy’s movie resume is The Nutty Professor, which is a remake of Jerry Lewis’ 1963 film of the same name. The sci-fi tale centers on Dr. Sherman Klump, who seeks to lose weight to earn the affections of a woman (Jada Pinkett Smith). To do so, he creates a formula that helps him drop the pounds, but what he gains is an unstable alter ego named Buddy Love. 

Directed by Ace Ventura: Pet Detective’s Tom Shadyac, this is a funny movie that’s also as warm as its protagonist. It’s also an excellent showcase for Murphy, specifically his ability to effortlessly play multiple roles – sometimes in the same scene.

Stream The Nutty Professor on The Roku Channel.
Rent/Buy The Nutty Professor on Prime Video.

Mulan (1998)

Eddie Murphy more than proved himself as a voice actor through Mulan, which still stands as one of Walt Disney Pictures best features. It tells the story of a young woman (Ming-Na Wen), who disguises herself as a man and enlists amid a conscription in ancient China in place of her elderly father. Murphy plays the wise-cracking dragon, Mushu, who (unbeknownst to the ancestors) becomes Mulan’s guide. Barry Cook and Tony Bancroft’s film as a whole is wonderful, and Murphy more than excels at voicing one of the most endearing (and annoying) Disney sidekicks.

Stream Mulan on Disney+.
Rent/Buy Mulan on Prime Video.

Dr. Dolittle (1998)

Another notable remake the actor starred in is Dr. Dolittle, a reimagining of the 1967 fantasy film and a loose adaptation of the books by Hugh Lofting. This is the funny story of a successful surgeon who finds his world turned upside down after he rediscovers his ability to talk to animals. This feature from director Betty Thomas is fun to watch and is one of the best Black family films available. Come for the furry friends and funny quips, and stay for the warm story and solid performances.

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Rent/Buy Dr. Dolittle on Prime Video.

Bowfinger (1999)

If you’re looking for a great satirical comedy, then 1999’s Bowfinger should be right up your alley. This farce comes from the humorous mind of Steve Martin, who wrote and starred in the Frank Oz-directed feature. Martin stars as a small-time film producer who attempts to make his first movie on a tight budget and with an A-list star (Eddie Murphy), without the actor knowing he’s even in it. Murphy plays a dual role here and, at times, he’s downright historical in the roles of Kit and Jiff Ramsey. All in all, this is another unappreciated gem from the comedian’s filmography.

Rent/Buy Bowfinger on Prime Video.
Buy Bowfinger on Apple TV.

Shrek (2001)

It’s fair to say that a lot of people are well aware of Eddie Murphy’s work as the loud, funny and lovable Donkey within the Shrek franchise. The star is practically a revelation in the first film, which is helmed by Andrew Adamson and Vicky Jenson. It’s a cynical and humorous fairy tale spoof about an ogre, who – in an attempt to regain control of his swamp home – makes a deal with a devious lord to rescue a princess. Of course, the reluctant hero can’t do that without the help of his furry buddy. Murphy is pitch perfect in this role, and it’s easy to see why he was cast. Overall, he makes a total ass of himself (pun intended). 

Stream Shrek on Peacock.
Rent/Buy Shrek on Prime Video.

Dreamgirls (2006)

Dreamgirls is definitely one of the marquee titles on the Daddy Day Care star’s list of credits. He played the role of James “Thunder” Early in Bill Condon’s theatrical adaptation of the 1981 Broadway play. Unsurprisingly, the music hits well, and the performances from Beyoncé, Jennifer Hudson, Anika Noni Rose, Jamie Foxx and co. are excellent. Eddie Murphy’s tremendous work as Early earned him a Golden Globe as well as an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor, which was his first nod from the Academy.

Stream Dreamgirls on Paramount+.
Rent/Buy Dreamgirls on Prime Video.

Tower Heist (2011)

To be honest, Brett Ratner’s Tower Heist was a well-needed return to form for Mr. Murphy at the time it opened in theaters. He plays the role of a sharp-tongued hustler, who teams up with members of a hotel’s staff to steal back money from their corrupt bosses after losing their pensions. Murphy’s greatness in the film is one of the many reasons why you should check it out, especially since it’s very reminiscent of Beverly Hills Cop and 48 Hrs.

Buy/Rent Tower Heist on Prime Video.
Buy Tower Heist on Apple TV.

Dolemite Is My Name (2019)

The critically acclaimed Dolemite Is My Name was a passion project for Eddie Murphy, who’d long wanted to tell the true story of underground comic Rudy Ray Moore. Dolemite chronicles the late stand-up’s rise as a filmmaker and the formation of his eponymous alter ego. Murphy shines as Moore and imbues the role – and Craig Brewer’s biopic as a whole - with equal amounts of raunchiness and earnestness. This is arguably some of the best work of the actor’s career.

Stream Dolemite Is My Name on Netflix.

Needless to say, Eddie Murphy has produced some incredible work, which spans genres and mediums. It’s not hard to see why he continues to work, and he deserves to keep getting his flowers. You can also honor the man by checking out these great titles. 

In the more than 100 years that Walt Disney Company has been making films and television. They have created some of the most iconic heroes. in the history of cinema and every good hero needs a good sidekick. Unfortunately, not every great hero gets a great sidekick.

Some Disney sidekicks are incredible. They add something much needed that the hero lacks, making the team even better in the process. Sometimes, however, sidekicks are just annoying hangers-on that we could all do without. Here are some of the most annoying Disney sidekicks. 

Phil - Hercules

Following the success of Robin Williams as the Genie, hiring comedians to play wise-cracking sidekicks became the norm at Disney for a bit. Phil is a perfect character to be played by Danny DeVito, but he's not a great character for any Disney movie. He's rude and inappropriate and it seems like every time he has something to say it's not something you're going to want to hear.

Koda - Brother Bear

Koda is a young bear in Brother Bear who is accidentally adopted by the movie's protagonist. Koda is actually a tragic character and the entire movie is about setting up the little guy for heartbreak. Unfortunately, it doesn't land, in part because Koda never stops making a nuisance of himself. 

Sergeant Demetrio Lopez Garcia - Zorro

The overweight bumbling cop has become a trope that we've seen countless times, and it's never not annoying. Sergeant Garcia in Disney's old Zorro TV and films was just a guy doing what the powers that be told him, as he tried, and repeatedly failed, to capture Zorro. It's honestly a shock his superiors kept him around so long.

Tito - Oliver and Company

Cheech Marin is a great comedian but his performance as Tito in Oliver & Company is not one of his career highlights. Tito's continual attempts to flirt with Georgette the poodle, voiced by Bette Midler, just get frustrating and it's just not as funny as it might have looked on paper.

Gurgi - The Black Cauldron

The Black Cauldron was a massive Disney failure that is now a largely forgotten Disney movie. And that's a good thing because Gurgi, the small fuzzy creature with the world's most annoying voice, deserves to be forgotten. His voice and grammar are just two annoying things on top of each other. Even a heroic sacrifice doesn't save Gurgi, it would have been better if he'd stayed dead. 

The Gargoyles - The Hunchback of Notre Dame

The Gargoyles of The Hunchback of Notre Dame are mostly annoying because if the three comic relief characters were simply removed from the film, it would be a much better movie. Their humor is in direct contrast to the serious tone of the rest of the story that should have been embraced rather than trying to make it more "kid-friendly" with wise-cracking sidekicks.

HeiHei - Moana

HeiHei the rooster is barely a character. He nearly gets eaten by Dwayne Johnson's Maui, and that might have been a better fate. He's a largely unnecessary character and it's not clear why it was decided that the chicken got to go on the adventure while Pua the pig, who probably would have helped out more, had to stay home. 

Tinkerbell - Peter Pan

Tinkerbell is an iconic Disney character, so including her on a list of annoying sidekicks might seem strange, but she's actually sorta terrible. Tink is perpetually jealous of Wendy, and as a result, she's actually the cause of most of the terrible circumstances the rest of the characters have to endure. 

B.O.B. - The Black Hole

The Black Hole was Disney's answer to Star Wars and it has, fittingly, been relegated to a largely forgotten corner of history. B.O.B. was the movie's attempt to give us a C-3PO or R2-D2-like character, and while B.O.B. was well designed, the decision to have him voiced by Slim Pickens gives us a robot with a Southern twang which just never sounds right.

Abu - Aladdin

Abu isn't the worst sidekick in the world, but the little monkey can't even follow basic instructions. He was told not to touch any other treasure in the Cave of Wonders, but he didn't listen, and as a result, he almost killed himself and Aladdin. Bad movie monkey.

Launchpad Mc Quack - Ducktales And Darkwing Duck

Launchpad McQuack found himself a sidekick to both Scrooge McDuck on Ducktales and Darkwing Duck. How he got both gigs considering the one talent he purports to have, as a pilot, always results in a crash, is beyond me. He's just annoying for getting two shows when it would have been nice to do something different in one of them.

Major David Q. Dawson - The Great Mouse Detective

Dawson is basically the Watson to Basil of Baker Street's Sherlock Holmes. Unfortunately, Dawson comes from the Nigel Bruce school of "Watson is a big dumb idiot" which is the most annoying version of Watson there has ever been. Why would somebody as smart as Basil hang out with this guy?

Terk - Tarzan

To a certain extent, Terk in Disney's Tarzan is supposed to be annoying. She's like Tarzan's sister, and sisters can certainly be annoying. Unfortunately, maybe Rosie O'Donnell does her job too well because, in the end, she is so annoying you just want her to stop. 

Timon and Pumbaa - The Lion King

Before you break out the pitchforks and torches. This is not about Timon and Pumbaa from the original animated The Lion King, but specifically live-action remake, which is far from the best of Disney's live-action remakes. While the movie is technically impressive for the way it digitally recreates the animals, the characters largely add nothing new to the story, so they're annoying because you want to see something new happen here, and it never does. 

Le Fou - Beauty And The Beast

Beauty and the Beast is one of the best Disney animated movies, but that doesn't save it from having annoying sidekicks. Clearly, Le Fou hangs around Gaston because Gaston likes to have somebody this dumb around so he looks smarter. You want the little guy to wise up and realize that he's being mistreated, but he never does, which makes him all the more annoying. 

Archimedes - The Sword In The Stone

Archimedes is Merlin's pet owl in The Sword in the Stone. It's basically his job to spend the whole movie telling everybody else why they suck. He's a real stick in the mud, which is fine, but that's really all his character does for the entire film, and it gets old fast. 

Ben -Treasure Planet

Ben's saving grace in Treasure Planet, one of IDsney's biggest failures, is that he only appears near the end of the movie. If a character this loud and annoying, unlike any other character in the film, had been in more of the movie, Treasure Planet would have been worse for it.

Flora, Fauna, and Merryweather - Sleeping Beauty

The three fairies of Sleeping Beauty spend more of the film's runtime bickering with each other than they do taking care of Aurora, which is supposed to be their job. It really makes one wonder if their plan to take Briar Rose away and hide her was even a good idea. Maybe they should have given the job to somebody else. 

Pintel and Ragetti - Pirates Of The Carribbean Franchise

You probably don't even remember the names of Pintel and Regetti, the pirate duo who work for Barbosa in Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl. They're fun and interesting in the first film, but their success brought them back again and again, and with each succeeding film it becomes clear nobody knows what to do with them. 

Anastasia And Drusella - Cinderella

Cinderella's Wicked Stepmother is a truly evil woman who does terrible things to the heroine of the film. Her daughters, however, seemingly learned nothing from her, as they are just spoiled brats. How even a mother could love their annoying behavior is a real question.

Zini - Dinosaur

Zini is the comic relief sidekick of Disney's Dinosaur. Why does a movie about dinosaurs trying to outrun their extinction have a comic relief character? The world will never know. The fact that the lemur best friend of protagonist Aladar is mostly concerned with getting a date, just makes the whole thing even more bizarre. 

Mushu - Mulan

Eddie Murphy does a fine job as the voice of Mushu. He's pretty funny a lot of the time, but he's also the cause of most of Mulan's problems, something that he eventually apologizes for, but never really learns from, making the fact that he ultimately gets what he wants really annoying. 

The Mad Hatter - Alice In Wonderland

Casting Johnny Depp in a live-action Alice in Wonderland is fine, deciding that, because you cast Johnny Depp, you must make the Mad Hatter a much bigger part of a movie where there's no reason for it, is less fine. Depp is so important to this movie and its sequel that he barely qualifies as a sidekick, which makes him an even more annoying sidekick. 

Mater - Cars Franchise

Honestly, Mater isn't that annoying in Cars. He grows on you and you find him lovable by the end, even if you don't at the beginning. What makes him ultimately annoying in Cars 2 is that he worked so well as a sidekick in the first movie, he got promoted to main character in the sequel, and that's where the wheels come off this tow truck. He should have remained a sidekick.

Gusgus - Cinderella

The mice in Cinderella are sort of all annoying because a great deal of the film's runtime is focused on them and not the title character. But Gusgus is the most annoying in the lot because his particular comedic focus is "being fat" which is far more annoying than funny.

Meeko And Flit - Pocahontas

Pocahontas has more than a few problems, but its animal sidekicks are certainly among them. Maybe if these were talking animals they'd be more interesting, but they largely exist to inject silly in what was supposed to be a much more serious movie.

Thumper - Bambi

Bambi was a revolutionary Disney movie when the studio produced it back in 1942. It's beautifully animated, with the scenes of nature as breathtaking as the real thing while the animation of animal characters was done with a level of perfection not previously seen by Disney or anybody else. And then Thumper has to get in there and be so loud all the time and just ruin the beauty of it. 

Cogsworth - Beauty and the Beast

Cogsworth is certainly supposed to be a bit annoying, as he plays against the easy-going Lumiere. He's basically your micromanaging boss if your boss was a bipedal clock. He does ultimately redeem himself by the end of the movie, but it takes a long time for him to get there as he's really annoying up until that point.

Tonto - The Lone Ranger

Disney's The Lone Ranger movie actually cast Johnny Depp as Tonto in a movie that came out in 2013. That's a thing that happened. Just because Johnny Depp wearing a funny hat in a Disney movie worked once, did not mean this was something we needed twice. It's an annoying performance that just never ends.

Bagheera - The Jungle Book

Bagheera means well. He's just trying to do right by Mowgli, but his "my way or the highway" style of parenting is going to be really annoying to anybody who has seen that not work, and it very much doesn't work in the movie either. 

Woola - John Carter

John Carter is one of the most expensive movies Disney has ever made. It's also one of its biggest live-action flops. None of that is Woola's fault. The movie has several problems that resulted in its failure, but the overly eager puppy dog that is actually a massive Martian monster certainly doesn't help matters.

Flounder - The Little Mermaid

Flounder seems like a really nice guy. He's friendly, and Ariel clearly likes him. The problem is that he doesn't do anything that's particularly useful for the entirety of The Little Mermaid, which makes him really annoying as his screen time could have been given to anything else and been better used.

Some of the sidekicks are useless, others are actually detriments to the hero and everything they're trying to accomplish, and still others are just people we don't want to listen to anymore. For every amazing Disney sidekick, there's an annoying one. And honestly, the heroes can do better.

The ‘90s were a weird time when it came to female empowerment in entertainment. On one end of the spectrum, you had Grrl Power with groups like The Spice Girls, and Queen Latifah demanding “U.N.I.T.Y.” And on the other end, you had movies like The Little Mermaid, where Ariel gave away her voice just to be with a man, and Belle from Beauty and the Beast, whose romance began with her being held captive.

Sure, there was certainly progress (I mean, hell, Ellen Ripley and others have been kicking ass for awhile now). But, when it came to media directed toward children (Most notably from Disney), it left a lot to be desired. 

Thankfully, Disney has pivoted substantially with its portrayal of female characters over the years. So, here are 10 tough-as-nails female Disney and Pixar characters that we can all look up to. 

Mulan 

Mulan is an interesting case, since her movie was actually a part of the Disney Renaissance of the ‘90s, so you could already see a shift in Disney by the tail end of the decade.

Mulan (Who was likely not a real person), is an inspirational story since its whole premise puts “manliness” into question. I say this because Mulan, who is definitely NOT a man, is ultimately the one who saves the day in the end.

Mulan is the kind of character that I’m perfectly happy showing my daughter, since she’s noble, loyal, and brave, which are all qualities that I hope both of my children can acquire throughout their lives. 

Merida (Brave) 

Turning to Pixar is 2012’s Brave, as Princess Merida (And, yes, she is a princess) is the kind of young woman who does things her way, or no way. This is often difficult for her because people want her to be something she’s not. For example, she finds her dresses confining, and she’d much rather unleash a storm of arrows than entertain a male suitor. 

And, in a lot of ways, Merida is an example of the grrl power that I was talking about earlier. Yes, she wants to be a good daughter, but she also wants to be herself.

I also love that Merida is such a clearly defined character. We know from the very beginning just who she is, and it’s more that the people around her seem to change, rather than her having to change. In fact, the lesson Merida learns throughout the film is to take others into consideration, which is not a terrible thing to learn at all.  

Meilin Lee (Turning Red) 

Sticking with Pixar, Turning Red was the movie that made me believe that the company is in its golden age. And it’s mostly because of Meilin Lee, who I just love to pieces. Mei Lee is in every way a teenager. She likes boys, boy bands, and being with her friends, and I just love that about her. 

The plot of Turning Red is of course a metaphor for growing up, but what I adore about the film is how it approaches how a young girl grows up. As a man, I never had to worry about things like my period, or trying to be a good daughter. 

That said, I also never had movies that showcased conflict of that nature. But, I wish I had, and I’m glad that my daughter can grow up with a character like Mei Lee. She struggles, sure, but ultimately decides that she should embrace her emotions, because her emotions are what make her who she is. 

In fact, that’s a great lesson that anybody can learn, which might be a reason why my son loves the movie, too! 

Raya (Raya And The Last Dragon) 

Raya learns a ton of lessons in Raya and the Last Dragon (Which we once gave five stars and called “a masterpiece”!). At a young age, Raya has a trusting heart, and she wants to see the best in people. But, because of an early betrayal, she hardens her heart, and begins to see the world differently. 

This is very realistic, and if that was the film’s message (That we can't trust anybody), then I honestly wouldn’t be too upset, because I often believe that myself.

However, Raya, who can kick some serious ass, also learns that in order to heal the world, we need to see the good in people, even if it’s our worst enemies. Honestly, I think the whole world could learn from Raya, but she’s not the only character from the film that I think that we can look up to… 

Namaari (Raya And The Last Dragon) 

On the other end of the spectrum is Namaari, Raya’s sworn enemy. It’s because Namaari followed her mother’s orders that she seemingly doomed the world, and in every way, we are meant to dislike Namaari for betraying Raya.

But, at the same time, Namaari might learn an even bigger lesson than Raya. Because unlike Raya, who had been taught at a very young age to have faith in humanity, Namaari was taught the exact opposite, so it’s little wonder that she didn’t trust Raya in the beginning. 

But, in the end, Namaari learns to accept responsibility for her past actions, and she does, which makes her admirable. In fact, I wish more people would admit when they're wrong, as that's not an easy thing to do.  

Elastigirl (The Incredibles) 

A big part of being a parent is the ability to stretch yourself – stretch your time, stretch your patience, hell, it even seems like you’re even stretching your day sometimes. So, it makes perfect sense that the matriarch of The Incredibles is literally elastic. 

Elastigirl is a full-time mom, and a part-time superhero, until she has to wear both capes (Actually, she doesn’t wear a cape, because capes can get you killed!). 

And in Incredibles 2, Elastigirl is back on the scene to get people to love superheroes again. Because a woman’s gotta do what a woman’s gotta do. Elastigirl, like many moms, really seems to be able to do it all.  

Colette Tatou (Ratatouille) 

In one of Pixar’s best movies, we also get one of Pixar’s best characters in Collette Tatou, who will cut you with a knife if you get in her way. 

Being the only woman in the kitchen is tough, but Collette managed to not only stand out, but even shine. Plus, she rides a kick ass motorcycle. Colette Tatou is who I want to be when I grow up! 

Moana  

Remember how I mentioned The Little Mermaid at the start of this article? Well, Moana is the positive step in the right direction away from movies like The Little Mermaid that I like to see. 

Moana doesn’t need Maui to fix her problem. Instead, it’s the other way around, and Maui needs Moana to save the day. In this way, Moana is a character with complete agency, and she saves not only her island, but possibly even the entire ocean itself. There’s a reason why Moana is my favorite Disney movie, and it might be because Moana is my favorite Disney character.  

Elsa (Frozen) 

Elsa could have stayed Queen of Arendelle, but she didn’t want to. And do you know why? Because she’d much rather be herself. In the epic song, “Let It Go,” Elsa literally lets her hair down, and the song is all about letting go of everything that holds you back.

In a lot of ways, Elsa is the embodiment of being yourself. And that’s a lesson that we can all learn a thing or two from. 

Go Go Tomago (Big Hero 6) 

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering, Go Go Tomago is often the calmest person in her team of Big Hero 6. 

That is, until she gets behind the wheel, since she’s a demon on the road. The leather jacket-wearing, bubble gum popping Go Go might just be the coolest person in this entire article, and that’s saying something.

And, that’s the list. But, which one is your favorite? For more news on all things Disney and Pixar-related, be sure to swing around here often! 

Did you know that the Academy Awards’ category for Best Animated Feature has only existed since 2002 and the first recipient was one of the best kids movies, Shrek? It makes us wonder what other classics of the medium would have received the honor had the category been introduced prior to their release. Let’s explore the idea by recalling some of the most acclaimed animated movies of all time that deserved the Oscar (including some that were either recognized or won in another category or received a special statuette).

Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs (1937)

As the first feature-length animated film ever made, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs likely would have earned the award for that grand achievement alone. In fact, the film did earn Walt Disney an honorary Oscar that was specially designed with seven miniature statuettes surrounding it, in reference to the Seven Dwarfs.

Toy Story (1995)

Toy Story was a game-changer in the mid-1990s as the first fully computer-generated feature length film — a feat that did earn Pixar a Special Achievement Oscar, in addition to nods for its screenplay and Randy Newman’s score and iconic original song, “You’ve Got a Friend in Me.” It probably would have won Best Animated Feature on that fact alone, if not for the ingenious plot and heartwarming themes of friendship, as explored through the complicated relationship between string-activated cowboy doll, Woody (Academy Award winner Tom Hanks), and “high-tech” spaceman, Buzz (Tim Allen).

The Lion King (1994)

It makes sense when you learn that The Lion King is an adaptation of King Lear because the story is on par with even the most powerful works of William Shakespeare. Throw in gorgeous animation of the Pride Lands of Africa and Oscar-winning music by Elton John and Hans Zimmer and you have yourself a masterpiece.

The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

The only thing more unique than the story of The Nightmare Before Christmas — the disillusioned Halloween King tries to bring Christmas to his spooky town — is its stop-motion animation style. The fascinatingly freaky aesthetic of producer Tim Burton and director Henry Sellick's cult favorite did earn it an Oscar nomination for Visual Effects, but we imagine it would have received a Best Animated Feature Oscar win had the category existed.

My Neighbor Totoro (1988)

As one of the all-time most beloved anime film classics, Akira very likely could have received the Best Animated Feature honor in 1989. Yet, Studio Ghibli's My Neighbor Totoro — which follows the adventures of two young girls and the spirits of the forest — is the more irresistibly whimsical anime fantasy, making it more of a shoe-in.

The Iron Giant (1999)

The BAFTAs have a category for Best Feature Film in a division reserved for children’s entertainment that, in 2000, was received by Brad Bird's feature-length directorial debut, The Iron Giant. This might be a good indication that the highly original, intelligently crafted, and heartwarming B-movie throwback had a great chance of winning the Best Animated Feature Oscar, too, despite what would have been fierce competition with Toy Story 2, Disney's Tarzan, Fantasia 2000, and South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut.

Princess Mononoke (1997)

The year 1997 was another iconic one for animated cinema, with Disney's Hercules, Anastasia, Cats Don't Dance, and Perfect Blue among its most acclaimed examples. However, an epic, visually stunning fantasy adventure by Studio Ghibli like Princess Mononoke seems like the best bet.

Aladdin (1992)

This beloved animated adaptation of One Thousand and One Arabian Nights was nominated for five Oscars and won two for Alan Menken's score and the original song, "A Whole New World." In an alternate world, Aladdin — one of the all-time best Disney animated films for its sweeping, romantic, adventurous tone and, especially, the late Robin Williams’ extraordinary performance as the voice of Genie — just might have won a third statuette.

Chicken Run (2000)

The last year before the Best Animated Feature Oscar was created saw the release of the hilarious The Emperor's New Groove, the thrilling Titan A.E., and Dinosaur, which boasted some unusually realistic animation. However, the most acclaimed animated film from that year was the funny claymation-style escape thriller, Chicken Run, which could have ended up being the most acclaimed pick from that year by the Academy.  

The Little Mermaid (1989)

This beautiful adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s aquatic fairytale might have faced some competition in the Best Animated Feature category with Hayao Miyazaki’s Kiki’s Delivery Service, All Dogs Go to Heaven, and, perhaps even, Peter Jackson’s Meet the Feebles. However, considering The Little Mermaid did earn Alan Menken two Oscars for Best Original Song (for “Under the Sea” against “Kiss the Girl”) and Original Score, it very likely would have swam its way to the top, as well.

Mulan (1998)

The most noteworthy theatrically released animated films of 1998 included Quest for Camelot, The Rugrats Movie, The Prince of Egypt, Antz, and its Pixar twin A Bug’s Life. However, the one with the best chance of taking home the gold would have probably been Disney’s funny, action-packed, period epic, Mulan, which did earn a Best Original Score nod at that year’s Oscars.

Beauty And The Beast (1991)

Disney’s retelling of the classic fairytale, Beauty and the Beast, was the first animated film to receive a nomination for the Best Picture Oscar — in addition to five other nominations, including Original Song and Score, which it won. Later, 2009’s Up and 2010’s Toy Story 3 also earned nods in the grand prize category and wound up taking home the Best Animated Feature Oscar in their respective years. Thus, if the category existed in 1992, this timeless story of the prevailing power of true love would have had no competition.

The Jungle Book (1967)

Disney’s first adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s seminal novel about a young boy (voiced by Bruce Reitherman) living among wild animals was recognized by the Academy with a nomination for Terry Gilkyson’s original song, “The Bare Necessities.” When taking a look at the other animated films from 1967 — including Rankin/Bass’ The Wacky World of Mother Goose and Cyborg 009: Monster Wars —  it seems like the The Jungle Book would have had this in the bag.

Peter Pan (1953)

Disney’s animated adaptation of J.M. Barrie’s seminal fairytale about a wondrous world with pirates and an ageless boy with the ability to fly did not get much awards attention, save a Grand Prize nomination at the 1953 Cannes Film Festival. That kind of praise for Peter Pan probably would have given the Academy something to think about, at least, had they created the Best Animated Feature adaptation then.

Castle In The Sky (1986)

Even with acclaimed animated features like An American Tail (which was nominated for Best Original Song), The Great Mouse Detective, and Transformers: The Movie released in the same year, we still have the most confidence in Castle in the Sky. This gravity-defying adventure was the first feature-length film by Studio Ghibli and is still remembered as one of the studio’s finest efforts.

Bambi (1942)

Based on a novel by Felix Salten, the iconic, devastating Bambi received Academy Award nominations for Best Sound, Song, and Score, which alone makes a good case for its Best Animated Feature eligibility. Not to mention, its only competition in that race would have been another, much-forgotten, Disney film called Saludos Amigos and a lost Chilean feature called 15 mil dibujos.

Fantasia (1940)

The year's animated feature to compete at the Academy Awards was Pinocchio, which did take home statuettes for Original Score and Original Song (“When You Wish Upon a Star”). The only other feature-length animated flick released that year was an anthology called Fantasia, which received two honorary awards for its then unique combination of music and visuals and “contribution to the use of sound in motion pictures." Fantasia’s groundbreaking technical achievements, wondrous aesthetic, and sense of variety probably would have given it the edge for Best Animated Feature over Pinocchio, which would have meant a win for Disney either way.

Watership Down (1978)

Inspired by Richard Adam’s novel, Watership Down is the harrowing tale of a group of rabbits desperate to find refuge from humans intent on destroying their home, which received a Hugo Award nomination for “Best Dramatic Presentation.” To us, this suggests that it might have been favored by the Academy as well, considering its biggest competition would have been Ralph Bashki’s divisive The Lord of the Rings and a few Disney cartoon compilations.

Lady And The Tramp (1955)

While the Academy Awards did not have a Best Animated Feature category in 1956, the BAFTAs did and one of their nominees that year was Lady and the Tramp. While a Canadian short film called Blinkity Blank ended up winning, we imagine the heartwarming tale about a pampered Cocker Spaniel (voiced by Barbara Luddy) who falls for a stray mongrel (voiced by Larry Roberts) would have been treated better by the Academy.

Sleeping Beauty (1959)

George Burns’ original score for this adaptation of Charles Perrault’s seminal fairytale, Sleeping Beauty, did get a nod from the Academy, but probably would have taken home Best Animated Feature. Fun fact: the Disney film’s most notable competition might have been an adaptation of the “Aladdin” segment from One Thousand and One Arabian Nights by Columbia Pictures.

Dumbo (1941)

Perhaps one of the reasons why the Academy had not created a Best Animated Feature category by 1942 is because victories were pretty much inevitable at the time. In other words, Dumbo — which did win Best Score that year — probably would have beaten out The Reluctant Dragon (an anthology also from Disney) and Princess Iron Fan, which was China’s first animated feature, but its colorless animation might have hurt its chances.

Cinderella (1950)

Three Academy Award nominations — namely Best Original Song ("Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo"), Score, and Sound — went to, arguably, the most definitive Disney animated movie. Without even taking the other animated features released in 1950 into account, it is hard to imagine anything else but the timeless love story in Cinderella winning over the Academy’s hearts in the Best Animated Feature category for that year.

Charlotte’s Web (1973)

Disney certainly would have had a good chance at winning the Best Animated Feature Oscar in 1974 with Robin Hood, which did earn a nod for George Burns’ original song, “Love.” However, we can’t help but feel that Paramount’s original, uplifting adaptation of E.B. White’s Charlotte’s Web would have been the radiant victor.

One Hundred And One Dalmatians (1961)

In 1962, the BAFTA for Best Animated Film was given to Disney’s One Hundred and One Dalmatians. If this category existed in the Oscars at that time, we imagine it would have also gone to this iconic adaptation of Dodie Smith’s novel about a family of puppies kidnapped by ruthless fashionista, Cruella de Vil.

The Hunchback Of Notre Dame (1996)

While there is a case to be made that the largely stop-motion animated James and the Giant Peach could have been eligible and that Beavis and Butt-Head Do America deserved a chance, it might be safest to say the Best Animated Feature Oscar would have gone to The Hunchback of Notre Dame in 1997. Disney’s adaptation of Victor Hugo’s esteemed French novel did received an Academy Award nomination for Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz’s score, however.

The Secret Of NIMH (1982)

The 1983 Best Animated Feature Oscar race might have had a pretty stellar line-up with two acclaimed Rankin-Bass fantasies (The Flight of the Dragon and The Last Unicorn), the U.K. adaptation of Richard Adam’s The Plague Dogs, and (if they counted it) the visually groundbreaking Tron. However, our money would have been on The Secret of NIMH, which is one of the legendary Don Bluth’s most wild and wondrous adventures.

The Aristocats (1970)

To modern audiences, The Aristocats is a seen as an animated Disney movie that has not aged very well, due to some racial insensitivities. However, in 1971, that would have had no effect on the Academy, who probably would have given it the Best Animated Feature Oscar for its incredible musical moments.

Alice In Wonderland (1951)

Disney’s original adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s surreal novel was one of only three feature-length animated films released in 1951, the others being a Czechoslovakian stop-motion film called Prince Bayaya and a Soviet adaptation of The Night Before Christmas. Not only would this have helped its chances in the Best Animated Feature Oscar race, but its score also received a nod from the Academy.

Animal Farm (1954)

Because Disney did not release an animated film in 1954, that very likely would have left Animal Farm as a shoe-in for the Best Animated Feature Oscar at that time. While not particularly appropriate for family viewing, the adaptation of George Orwell’s clever, anti-fascist satire is a work of great importance.

The Fox And The Hound (1981)

Despite its heart-wrenching story of two creatures whose friendship is threatened when they discover they are meant to be natural enemies, Disney’s The Fox and the Hound was easily one of the most family-friendly animated films from 1981, which probably could have helped its chances in the Best Animated Feature Oscar race. Its greatest competition most likely would have been Ralph Bashki’s American Pop and producer Ivan Reitman’s Heavy Metal — both of which are musicals that, certainly, were not made for younger audiences.

The Rescuers (1977)

The Rescuers was nominated by the Academy for its original song, “Someone’s Waiting For You,” but we are inclined to believe a Best Animated Feature win would have also been in order. In fact, this thrilling adventure’s 1990 sequel, The Rescuers Down Under, more than likely would have won for its year, too.

Yellow Submarine (1968)

If the music in Yellow Submarine (courtesy of The Beatles, whose 1966 song inspired the film) would not win over the Academy, at least the intense visuals likely would have. The film follows John, Paul, George, and Ringo, who are enlisted by Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band to help save Pepperland from the anti-musical Blue Meanies.

The animation medium has come a long way, but its greatest admirers would agree that these classics deserved more recognition in their prime. Hopefully, mentioning them in this list served as a worthy consolation to being made before they could have the chance at a Best Animated Feature Oscar.

I love it, you love it, we all love it – let's talk about the best and worst things about every film from the Disney Renaissance. 

That's right – those ten sacred films from the long-lasting Disney catalog that never seemed to do any harm to anyone. While I love those movies with all my heart, I can even say that there are some flaws with these otherwise fantastic films.

Let's start with the first – and probably one of the most known. 

The Little Mermaid (1989)

Best Thing: It's Vibrant Colors And Music – There are so many positive things about The Little Mermaid, it's almost hard to choose just one. But if I had to, I would say the music and the vibrant colors the original animation brought to the big screen. 

From "Under the Sea" to "Kiss the Girl," the songs are some of the best out there, and the beautifully crafted scenes to go with them make it even better.

Worst Thing: King Triton Being An Actual Jerk – Look, Ariel isn't my favorite princess. She ranks relatively low for me, considering she's a pretty naive teenager who doesn't know the world that well. 

But did Triton have to destroy all her stuff? At least this version of Triton is a lot more caring and protective than the one in the live-action version of this film, but he's almost too protective, even scary. He's a jerk, to say the least – and I think he could have done better. 

The Rescuers Down Under (1990)

Best Thing: It's Classic Animation – The Rescuers Down Under is the only sequel here, and if I had to pick its best thing, I would say the animation overall. It reminds me of many classic Disney films from the early 1950s and 1960s, which is good.

Worst Thing: It's Forgettable Plotline – Even after rewatching this film, I barely remember what happened. The plot is so forgettable that I doubt this movie is anyone's favorite from the time period. It's a fun film, but it's not the best overall. 

Beauty And The Beast (1991)

Best Thing: The Love Story Between Belle And The Beast – How could you get a better love story than Belle and the Beast in Beauty and the Beast? This was the first animated feature to score a nomination for Best Picture at the Oscars, before some of those fantastic Pixar films that have done so. It's just a perfect story. 

Worst Thing: "Human Again" – Okay, so let's talk about "Human Again." I know that the song wasn't in the original release of the movie, so some people might not even know the song - and consider yourselves lucky. 

Unfortunately, I grew up in the early 2000s, when the song was added back into the film, and in every watch I have seen, it has always been in there. I could have gone my whole life without hearing that dang "Human Again" song. It doesn't fit with the vibes of the movie, and those voices make my head want to implode. It never should have been added back in. This is a Disney song I could have lived without. 

Aladdin (1992)

Best Thing: The Genie – Arguably, the Genie was one of Robin Williams' best roles in his career. I think out of every sidekick in any Disney film, the Genie's genuine heart, sarcasm, and hilarity stand above the rest – and I will forever love him the most from Aladdin. 

Worst Thing: How Gullible Jasmine's Father Is – This man is a Sultan. That is a ruler, a sovereign – furthermore, he looks decently older, so how was he so gullible and able to rule for so long until Jafar somehow took over? Every scene he's in makes me roll my eyes. 

The Lion King (1994)

Best Thing: Hans Zimmer's Incredible Score – Hans Zimmer's scores literally never miss. You can't sit there and tell me that when those opening chords of The Lion King hit, you don't feel chills. Every time I watch it, I am instantly immersed. 

Worst Thing: It Takes WAY Too Long For Simba To Grow Up – It's hard to pick something from The Lion King that's bad, considering it is a masterpiece. But if I had to, Simba's lack of responsibility is up there. I think this is almost a coming-of-age movie, and we watch Simba grow into his role of ruler, but it feels like it comes on way too slowly – and the people accept him back way too quickly after running away for years. 

Pocahontas (1995)

Best Thing: "Colors Of The Wind" – I'd also like to give a little shoutout to "Just Around the Riverbend," but "Colors of the Wind" is the real winner of Pocahontas. The lyrics are moving and teach us to cherish the Earth rather than destroy it, and its meaning holds even today, more than twenty years later. 

Worst Thing: It's Historical Inaccuracy And Overall Forgettable Love Story – Do I even need to get into this that much? Pocahontas has been criticized for years for its historical inaccuracy. And even so, the love story between Pocahontas and John Smith was so forgettable compared to many others here – and was further ruined by the unnecessary DVD sequel. 

The Hunchback Of Notre Dame (1996)

Best Thing: "Hellfire" – This song defined Disney villain songs. Not a single other Disney villain song has ever surpassed "Hellfire" from The Hunchback of Notre Dame. The scenery, the lyrics, the meaning – ugh, it makes me shiver every time I watch it. 

Worst Thing: The Fact That Quasimodo Still Ends Up Alone At The End – My poor man not only took out the man ready to take over Paris in the name of God but saved the girl of his dreams, only for her to end up with the conventionally attractive person. I feel for him so much. My heart hurts. 

Hercules (1997)

Best Thing: The Songs Are Nonstop Hits – Hercules is an underrated hit, and the songs never miss, not for a single second. You will get up and dance to "Zero to Hero." You'll root for Hercules in "Go the Distance." You'll want to lament your love in "I Won't Say I'm In Love" – every song is fantastic. 

Worst Thing: I Needed To See More Hades – While I love "Hellfire" as my favorite Villain song, Hades from Hercules is one of my favorite villains, and it's a crime that he only got fifteen minutes of screentime. Yes, I know that's a decent amount for an hour-and-a-half-long movie, but I needed more of my sassy ruler of the underworld!

Mulan (1998)

Best Thing: Mulan's Strong Spirit In General – Mulan was the princess I grew up wishing to be. She's strong, witty, kind, sweet, and a bit clumsy. As the movie goes on, her personality, growth, and evolving fighting prowess make her all the more interesting to watch. 

Worst Thing: Those Three Soldiers That We Are Forced To Follow And Like – Yeah, I won't even lie, I despise these three soldiers with a passion, the ones called Yao, Ling, and Chien Po. I guess they're okay, but they were given too much screen time, and in the grand scheme of things, I would have much rather seen the movie open up more about Shang's character than those three fools we're forced to like. 

Tarzan (1999)

Best Thing: Phil Collins' Absolutely Devouring This Soundtrack – I don't how Phil Collins did it when he wrote absolute fire for the Tarzan soundtrack, but these songs always rock my world any time I hear them. I love them so much. 

Worst Thing: It's Forgettable Villain – But Impactful Death – Yeah, there are iconic villains in Disney movies, and then there are villains like Clayton, a hunter who's just that – he hunts animals in the jungle for devious intent. 

I mean, sure, it's a villain, but in comparison to many other Disney villains, he's so forgettable. I will say his death – where we see his shadow as he hangs from vines while falling in the jungle – is impactful, but other than that, I barely remember him. 

Now, this makes me want to rewatch all these films all over again and enjoy every single one of them. It's time for a Disney rewatch, don't you think?

Before the best movies from the 2000s were allowed to run, the cinematic classics from the 1990s had to walk. (Well, except for Forrest Gump.) The 20th century closed out with a decade of cinematic spectacles as Hollywood embraced bigger budgets, the early days of CGI, and a new breed of superstars like Brad Pitt, Reese Witherspoon and Keanu Reeves.

From great ‘90s sci-fi movies like Jurassic Park to beloved ‘90s family films like Toy Story to chilling thrillers and hilarious comedies, just about any genre fan can feel represented by the era's best. Can the same be said for music, TV and literature? (I'll be too busy watching Speed again to research that.) So grab your long-dead Tamagotchis and scented markers and join us in celebrating the best of the best that the ‘90s had to offer.

• This list was compiled by the bulk of CinemaBlend's editors and writers, who gave 0-5 scores to an overall list of around 300 movies, with all of the final scores averaged out to determine the final ranking of 100.

How We Put This List Together

• Around 300 entries from a vast variety of 1990s films , which fit the bill of being culturally relevant and critically respected, were gathered using a combination of staff recommendations, movie guides and further research. The entries were tracked in a spreadsheet, where the majority of our staff then went through a multi-level voting process, with scores assigned based on personal opinions. A base number of viewers was also required for entries to make the cut, and lowest scores were then eliminated, in the style of scoring figure skating. The movies were then ordered from 1-100 based on the final average scores, with a variety of staff members writing the movie-celebrating entries. 

100. The Fifth Element (1997)

Luc Besson's The Fifth Element is a seriously wild movie. The sci-fi adventure has become a bona fide genre classic. Even though parts of the film were frustrating to make, those efforts clearly paid off, leaving us with one of the most fun space rides to date with an A-level cast including Milla Jovovich, Bruce Willis, Gary Oldman, and Chris Tucker in arguably his spaciest performance. Anyone who may have forgotten how fun and bonkers it is should grab a multi-pass and return immediately. 

99. Dumb and Dumber (1994)

Jim Carrey may have enjoyed the most successful year for any comedian in 1994, and Dumb and Dumber is a major part of that unprecedented run. After the wildly successful Ace Ventura: Pet Detective and The Mask, the Saturday Night Live reject gave an iconic performance as Lloyd Christmas in the Farrelly Brothers’ breakout comedy alongside Jeff Daniels’ Harry Dunne. Everything about the movie simply works in spite of itself. The chemistry between its stars, the balance of over-the-top humor and more subtle jokes, and the most annoying sound in the world work together to create an unparalleled and game-changing experience. 

98. The Blair Witch Project (1999)

The Blair Witch Project may not have been the first to bring a cinéma vérité approach to the horror genre, but through extremely savvy marketing and lore-building, the no-budget flick became one of the most profitable films of all time, spawning a franchise of film sequels, comics, a video game, and beyond. And all without an actual “witch” to tease in the trailers. One of the ‘90s most polarizing efforts, BWP’s “something from nothing” approach makes it as influential as anything else from the decade.

97. Mulan (1998)

What can be said about Mulan that has yet to be talked about? Released at the tail end of the famed Disney Renaissance through the ‘90s, Mulan was the animated film that defined a generation of young women, inspiring many to always fight for their honor and never back down, even when everyone in the world says otherwise. The music is excellent as the voice-acting takes you to another world, and the animation easily pulls viewers in, but it’s the themes that stay with audiences forever.

96. The Wedding Singer (1998)

More than just a wonderful romantic comedy, The Wedding Singer is a standout title in Adam Sandler’s early career. In the 1990s, Sandler was known for his goofy characters on Saturday Night Live and in goofy movies like Billy Madison, Happy Gilmore, and Airheads, but The Wedding Singer was an opportunity for him to show he could do work with a bit more gravity. There’s an argument to be made it paved the way for him excelling in films like Punch Drunk Love and Uncut Gems. And the power of Sandler + Drew Barrymore can never be denied.

95. Death Becomes Her (1992)

There’s a scene in Death Becomes Her that pretty much sums up the Robert Zemeckis film’s greatness – as Goldie Hawn’s Helen sits and leans back, the handle of a shovel slips perfectly through the hole in her torso. Meanwhile, Meryl Streep’s Madeline gracefully takes a seat while clutching her hair atop her head, in order to keep it from flopping forward against her broken neck. It’s dark, it’s twisted, it’s hilarious, and for 1992, the special effects are impressive. Bruce Willis’ Ernest being dragged along for the ride caps off the excellent trio of characters, in this eternally underrated comedy.

94. Sleepless in Seattle (1993)

Four years after already penning one of the all-time great romantic comedies (Rob Reiner’s When Harry Met Sally), the late Nora Ephron directed a landmark rom-com of her own with Sleepless in Seattle. The second of three movies co-starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan, this genre staple features an incredible story about a woman who goes to great lengths to be with the man she loves, a man whom she’s never met and only knows from a call-in radio show. It’s charming, witty, earnest, and the best kind of enchanted realism. 

93. Jackie Brown (1997)

Quentin Tarantino’s third directorial effort, Jackie Brown kicks off with Pam Grier’s money-smuggling flight attendant trekking to work to the tune of Bobby Womack’s “Across 110th Street,” helping it stand apart from the testosterone-enhanced violence of his first two features. And while the star-studded flick does dip into the filmmaker’s favored crime genre tropes, Jackie Brown hinges more on character study than sheer plot machination, and provides career-high performances from Bridget Fonda, Robert Forster, and Grier herself. And in that way, it’s arguably the most empathy-worthy project from Tarantino’s career.

92. Happy Gilmore (1996)

Depending on who you talk to, Adam Sandler’s '90s comedies are either near the peak of the genre or near the pits of low-brow comedy. We know where Shooter McGavin's opinions would lie, but we lean toward raising our clubs and pucks to Sandler’s story about a failed hockey player taking the world of professional golf by storm, all for his grandma. I’ll always laugh at Happy Gilmore’s titular hero going toe-to-toe with the late game show host Bob Barker, and the wild story of how he got involved is as great as the on-screen fisticuffs.

91. Casino (1995)

It’s hard to pick a favorite when talking about the best mob characters that Robert De Niro has played, though I’d argue Sam "Ace" Rothstein is as good as it gets. Unlike many other gangster movies tethered to dark alleys, Casino zeroes in on the mafia’s stranglehold of the glitzy and glamorous Las Vegas in the 1970s. It’s further bolstered by excellent directing from master craftsman Martin Scorsese and a supporting cast with legends like Sharon Stone and Joe Pesci. A fantastic movie that doesn't shy away from deeply upsetting moments. 

90. Forrest Gump (1994)

Despite all the cringey and parody-fueling moments in Robert Zemeckis' Forrest Gump --- never forget the Weird Al classic "Gump" --- Tom Hanks' history-making and country-crossing simpleton remains one of the 1990s most enduring movie heroes. With a stacked cast of pros, from Sally Field to Gary Sinise, Forrest Gump's popularity was evident from both its boffo box office, its huge success at the Oscars and beyond, and just how many quotes from this movie have permanently nestled themselves into pop culture. 

89. A Few Good Men (1992)

Courtrooms are a natural fit for high drama, and A Few Good Men has some of the best courtroom scenes in cinema history. Aaron Sorkin’s first screenplay, based on his own stage play, is missing many of the elements that would later define his writing, but that’s not a bad thing here. The battle between Tom Cruise and Jack Nicholson has become iconic, but even outside of that near-perfect scene, A Few Good Men is full of incredible characters, smart dialogue, and memorable moments. It’s perhaps one of Cruise’s most criminally overlooked performances.

88. Pretty Woman (1990)

Pretty Woman is definitely one of Julia Roberts's best movies in a wildly impressive career, but it's also one of the best ‘90s rom-coms. The film's sleazy-on-paper tale, which follows a rich businessman hiring a Hollywood escort to be his date to several social events, is a charmer thanks to its stellar leads. The film vaulted Roberts into an even bigger star, while making romantics everywhere swoon at the idea of a wealthy millionaire like Richard Gere coming out of nowhere to sweep them off their feet – if only, amirite?

87. As Good As It Gets (1997)

I miss Jack Nicholson. I miss James L. Brooks. I miss emotional, character-driven comedies that excelled thanks to outstanding performances from A-list talent. Nicholson, Helen Hunt, and Greg Kinnear weave magic in this sweet story about strangers forming friendships over low-stakes but relatable dramas. Studios craving IP don’t back movies like this anymore. But when they did, and when actors could sink their teeth into the material, this one was as good as they got. 

86. The Sandlot (1993)

There are ‘90s sports movies that are kid-pleasers, and then there is The Sandlot, the 1993 coming-of-age story about a ragtag group of kids living what could be the best summer of their lives. There's so much to love about this small-stakes baseball tale, from its timelessness to its life lessons to incredible characters like Scotty Smalls, Benny Rodriguez, Ham Porter, and so many others, there’s just so much to love about this classic sports film. To quote the Great Bambino, “Heroes get remembered, but legends never die.” In this case, we're calling our shot: The Sandlot is one of those legends. 

85. Can't Hardly Wait (1998)

Can’t Hardly Wait combines an "everybody's recognizable" ensemble cast with the classic house party setting and a killer soundtrack to give us one of the most epic teen movies of all time. The plot centers around Ethan Embry’s Preston, who needs to profess his love for Amanda (Jennifer Love Hewitt) at the graduation party, now that she is finally single after being dumped by Mike (Peter Facinelli). But plots are for dorks, and the 1998 comedy epitomizes the teen angst of the late 20th century in an honest and hilarious way.

84. You've Got Mail (1998)

You’ve Got Mail arrived in 1998 when just about everybody would have recognized the title as the AOL greeting message. This was the third movie to pair Tom Hanks with Meg Ryan, with writer/director Nora Ephron bringing her magic romantic comedy touch to the story of two business rivals who unwittingly fall in love via online chat. Hanks and Ryan channel the same chemistry that was a hit years earlier with Sleepless in Seattle, and it doesn't require having lived through the AOL era to appreciate the level of classic rom-com energy that makes this a winner. 

83. Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)

In a decade filled with all-time great Robin Williams movies, there’s something particularly tender and very much unforgettable about Chris Columbus’ Ms. Doubtfire. Underpinned by the heartbreak of having less time than ever with his three kids as his divorce looms, voiceover actor Daniel Hillard hatches a plan to form a new character in an elderly housekeeper named Mrs. Doubtfire to get more time with them. Not only does his new secret identity make for some hilarious moments that very much play to Williams’ strengths as a comedy actor, Mrs. Doubtfire is also a touching film that takes a grounded approach to parent separation. 

82. Edward Scissorhands (1990)

The most Tim Burton movie ever to Tim Burton, Edward Scissorhands is, on one bladed hand, a weirdly heartwarming horror movie, but on the other bladed hand, an endlessly frightening family film. The suburban Frankenstein homage is bolstered by stellar performances from Johnny Depp, Winona Ryder and Dianne Weist, with each bringing grounded authenticity to this wildly fantastical fable. (Yes, even the pity-provoking Depp.) The cherries on top of this macabre cake are Vincent Price, in his final major film role, and Burton-familiar composer Danny Elfman. And the eye-popping hedge art and ice sculptures don’t hurt.

81. American History X (1998)

Long before debates about The Snyder Cut, star Edward Norton, director Tony Kaye, and New Line Cinema engaged in a very loud and sometimes public squabble over American History X. The final cut we got, which Kaye publicly disavowed, is a brutal, almost two-hour look at modern white supremacy that’s shot partially in black and white. It netted Norton an Oscar nomination and has individual moments as strong as anything on this list, but it also occasionally loses pace and has always left fans wanting to see Kaye’s original 95-minute cut, which remains unreleased following the film’s disastrous production

80. Aladdin (1992)

It’s easy to look at Aladdin and celebrate the work of the great Robin Williams, and justifiably so. Only animation could truly uncork the man’s absolutely manic comedy style. But focusing only on Williams overlooks the work of amazing animators who created the Genie and everything else, since it's a testament to their skill that the animation is able to keep up with Williams and the high-flying scenes. Musical sequences like “A Friend Like Me” and “A Whole New World” show another form of animated beauty and have become just as iconic on their own as the Genie himself.

79. That Thing You Do! (1996)

By the time he wrote, directed, and co-starred in 1996’s That Thing You Do, Tom Hanks was already an acting powerhouse. So it was a bit of a surprise to see the Academy Award-winning actor delivering a tale about the wild ride that so many one-hit wonders of the ‘60s endured. Initially, the story of The Wonders (Johnathon Schaech, Ethan Embry, Steve Zahn, and Tom Everett Scott) and their roller-coaster journey wasn’t a smash success, but decades later, That Thing You Do is a well-regarded mini-cult classic that can still leave audiences with songs in their hearts.

78. Trainspotting (1996)

While it wasn’t his directorial debut, Danny Boyle’s adaptation of Irvine Welsh’s Trainspotting was the flick that put the man on the map. Following the lives of a group of Scottish drug addicts and friends, a cast including Ewan McGregor, Robert Carlyle, and Kelly MacDonald landed their start as the stars of tomorrow. Through a narrative that’s both darkly comic and frightfully serious, Trainspotting ushers its heroin addicts through life's struggles in grounded and trippy ways. Establishing Boyle’s skills in telling a conventional story through unconventional means, it’s a powerful statement for its director and the message he’s trying to convey.

77. Die Hard with a Vengeance (1995)

The Die Hard formula survived the transition to the “buddy cop” genre (at least initially) with Bruce Willis’ iconic John McClane being forced to team up with a good samaritan (Samuel L. Jackson) and solve a bunch of riddles around Manhattan to prevent bombs from going off. Many consider With a Vengeance to be the best in the Die Hard series, though it’s blasphemy to put ANY of them ahead of John McTiernan’s original. Still, this one moves like a freight train, Willis and Jackson have remarkable chemistry, and Jeremy Irons is a sinister villain with a satisfying twist of a motivation to take McClane down. 

76. Titanic (1997)

Titanic was an event in itself when it arrived in theaters, with James Cameron’s film ambitiously bringing to screen the story of the ill-fated ship, depicting the journey across the Atlantic with incredible visuals that give us a sense of what it might have been like aboard the ship during that terrible night. At the center of it all is the love story of Rose (Kate Winslet) and Jack (Leonardo DiCaprio), who manage to find each other, despite their differing social classes, and never let go. Considering how many millions of dollars it earned from repeat audience viewings, its "classic" status is unsinkable.

75. Men in Black (1997)

One of the biggest sci-fi hits of the decade, Men In Black holds a special place in the hearts and minds of both space and comedy nerds. Even though it initially took some convincing to land Will Smith for the role of Agent J., Steven Spielberg (as producer) managed to re-catch lightning in a bottle with the actor coming off of Independence Day. And as unpredictable as it seemed at the time Smith and Tommy Lee Jones made for an extremely fun and combative pairing in the rest of the Men in Black film franchise.

74. The Fugitive (1993)

When it comes to movies based on old TV shows, it doesn’t get much better than The Fugitive. There’s no way around it, this 1993-defining film straight-up rocks and is still just as great more than 30 years after its release. Watching one of Harrison Ford’s most iconic characters go to great lengths to clear his name after being wrongfully convicted of murdering his wife never gets hold, and the same can be said about Tommy Lee Jones’ Academy Award-winning performance as the U.S. Marshal tasked with capturing the elusive fugitive.

73. Run Lola Run (1998)

Outside of sci-fi adventures, time loops aren’t often used as storytelling devices, and 1998’s thriller Run Lola Run absolutely proves why this is a shame. While the story isn’t explicitly a looping band of time, we do get three different versions of writer/director Tom Twyver’s story. Centered around lovers Lola (Franke Potente) and Manni (Moritz Bleibtreu), each variation has one thing in common: they have 20 minutes to score 100,000 Deutschmarks, or Manni is dead. New twists and pitfalls arrive, keeping that premise fresh each time, right up until the end. 

72. Swingers (1996)

Long before he directed major projects like Iron Man and The Mandalorian, Jon Favreau wrote and starred in the Doug Liman-directed Swingers. This comedy follows Favreau’s Mike Peters, a comedian who’s getting over a bad breakup and moves to Hollywood to find success in the midst of the ‘90s swing revival. The witty back-and-forth dialogue between Favreau and his co-stars, including Vince Vaughn and Heather Graham, and the simple, yet effective story of moving on to better horizons make Swingers one of the most underrated comedies of this decade. It's just so money, baby. 

71. Malcolm X (1992)

For his 1992 “Spike Lee Joint,” the legendary Do The Right Thing filmmaker made his dream come true to make a biopic about one American Civil Rights Movement figure, Malcolm X. It not only remains among the best works of Lee’s incredible filmography, but it’s flat-out one of the best biography movies ever made. That’s all without mentioning a particularly powerful performance by Denzel Washington, who disappears into the figure and brings great intrigue and nuisance to Malcolm X across decades of his life. Spike Lee’s biopic stands tall as an enduring portrait of an important man in a pivotal moment in U.S. history.

70. Friday (1995)

Franchise lead and rap legend Ice Cube teamed up with Chris Tucker to create one of the best "sit back and kick it" movies in movie history. Spawning a line of sequels, the O.G. Friday boasts an awesome cast that also includes the late John Witherspoon, and understandably caught on with a certain kind of stoner comedy-loving crowd, but has become an all-encompassing cult classic. Even beyond its on-screen greatness, Friday also turned "Bye, Felicia" into everyday jargon. 

69. Miller's Crossing (1990)

Joel and Ethan Coen didn’t waste time demonstrating their eclecticism in their careers, breaking out with the phenomenal neo-noir Blood Simple in 1984 ahead of a 180-degree tonal pivot with 1987's gonzo comedy Raising Arizona. Then they kicked off the 1990s with one of the great modern gangster movies in Miller's Crossing. Gabriel Byrne’s Tom Reagan leading John Turturro’s Bernie Bernbaum into the woods to be murdered is the movie’s iconic moment, but it’s the brilliant chaos that spins out from Tom’s decision at the end of the sequence that cements this tense slice of art's place on this list.

68. Rushmore (1998)

Rushmore is often referenced for a lot of things. It was the first Wes Anderson movie to find more mainstream success. The critical acclaim Bill Murray received for his performance helped push him toward the more independent, critically acclaimed movies that defined his later career. It was the debut of Jason Schwartzman. All of those are reasons to celebrate the movie, but none are reasons why it’s on this list. It’s here because it’s an endlessly watchable slice of weirdness that holds up decades later. It’s some of the best career work of everyone referenced, and in its own offbeat way, it’s downright hysterical. 

67. South Park: Bigger, Longer, And Uncut (1999)

In 1999, with South Park at the height of its cultural powers, Matt Stone and Trey Parker took one of the biggest gambles anyone could have ever imagined. Producing the R-rated, animated musical that was South Park: Bigger, Longer, and Uncut, the pair doubled down on their uniquely dirty humor. Everything from parenting culture to Les Miserables got sent up, thanks to songs that were catchy but also not safe for work. Not every TV show survives a feature-length expansion, but South Park thrived in theaters, especially when it called the very parental uproar its release would inspire to a tee.

66. Misery (1990)

What does a creative owe to their fans? It’s a complex question that author Stephen King horrifyingly examined with his remarkable 1987 novel Misery, and three years later, director Rob Reiner adapted the work into a remarkable and unsettling film. The Oscars don’t typically support the horror genre, but Kathy Bates’ turn as Annie Wilkes was unignorable – as she remains one of the meanest villains of the ‘90s.. Though in Bates’ shadow, James Caan delivers an equally excellent turn as captive author Paul Sheldon, and the weaving of tension as he keeps his mind on options for escape is perfection.

65. Clerks (1994)

Kevin Smith famously maxed out credit cards and stretched a production budget of just $27,000 to make his first movie, 1994’s Clerks. Sure, the acting is hit or miss, and the editing isn’t perfect, but that only adds to the charm of the movie. It’s also really, really funny. It’s got some of the most quotable lines of any movie from the era, and they all shine through, despite the limitations of the budget. Clerks has become the stuff of legend in Hollywood, sparking dreams of would-be filmmakers everywhere and with good reason. 

64. Galaxy Quest (1999)

What if you found out that the fantastic adventures in your favorite sci-fi TV weren't so fake after all, such as in Galaxy Quest? Tim Allen plays a washed-up actor who, along with his former co-stars (played by Sigourney Weaver, Alan Rickman, and more), experience their cancelled, cult favorite series for real, thanks to an alien race that believes their televised adventures are "historical documents" and are desperate for their help. The concept makes for a clever, hilarious commentary on Trekkie culture, but also manages to be just as exciting as any Star Trek episode or movie spin-off could ever be.

63. Thelma and Louise (1991)

Susan Sarandon and Geena Davis have made dozens of memorable movies, but even if they had just made Ridley Scott’s Thelma & Louise, they’d have a space carved out for them in cinema history. It’s regarded as a keystone title in the history of feminism in film, and it makes you fall in love with the titular leads as they go on the run from the law. And it should go without saying that the final moments will forever be remembered as an indomitable moment of 1990s pop culture.

62. Primal Fear (1996)

Courtroom dramas were big in the ‘90s, and Primal Fear in 1996 is a prime example of why. Richard Gere plays the pompous attorney Martin Vail, who volunteers to represent a young Aaron Stampler (Edward Norton in his first screen role) after he is accused of brutally murdering a beloved archbishop. The movie takes an unexpected turn when Aaron is discovered to have a split personality named Roy, and the dark twist that comes to light after an explosive courtroom scene remains one of the wildest movie endings ever.

61. Home Alone (1990)

I'm pretty sure Home Alone has hit classic Christmas movie territory because you always know it's the holiday season when this movie is causing a clatter on your TV screen. Following a child accidentally left home alone during Christmas and who has to defend his home from burglars, Home Alone captures the happiness of the season while adding a bit of chaos – especially with all those serious injuries that probably would have killed Marv and Harry in the real world. It'd be a fun time even without Catherine O'Hara and John Candy's SCTV reunion, but is all the better for it.

60. Leon (The Professional) (1994)

Luc Besson seems to be motivated by big sci-fi ideas in films such as The Fifth Element, Lucy, and Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets. On the flip side of Besson’s coin, though, are these stripped-down crime thrillers (Nikita, The Family), and none were more effective than Leon. The film heralded the arrival of young Natalie Portman, who proved she could appear convincingly as basically anything on screen. But also, Gary Oldman walks away with the picture, playing an unhinged and drug-addicted DEA agent looking to kill Portman’s character, much to the chagrin of professional hitman Jean Reno.  

59. Office Space (1999)

There’s a scene in Office Space where all the workers are assembled for an all-hands meeting. Above the boss’ head, there’s a banner printed that says Is This Good for the COMPANY? The question is underlined and COMPANY is in weird light blue font for unclear reasons. It’s somehow both utterly ridiculous and one of the most relatable things I’ve ever seen. In a way, it’s a perfect explanation for why some people, myself included, love Office Space so much. It’s one long series of hysterical if-you-know-you-know-moments, and watching other people live through and comment on that same misery feels so cathartic. 

58. Reservoir Dogs (1992)

There are few filmmakers in cinematic history who made as an audacious splash with their first feature as Quentin Tarantino, who was immediately recognized as a tremendous upstart talent following the premiere of Reservoir Dogs at the 1992 Sundance Film Festival. With its spellbinding non-linear storytelling, sharp-as-knives dialogue, and violent shocks, it is recognized as a perfect archetype of Tarantino’s strengths as a writer/director, and it is remembered for inspiring a whole generation of filmmakers and its lasting impact on genre cinema.

57. Apollo 13 (1995)

Apollo 13 may be best remembered in pop culture for the iconic line “Houston, we have a problem," but the 1995 film accumulated nine Academy Award nominations for a reason. Boasting a stacked cast that includes Tom Hanks, Kevin Bacon, Gary Sinise, Ed Harris, and Kathleen Quinlan, the movie dramatizes the true story of the failed 1970 lunar mission, and the ending sequence is no less suspenseful nearly thirty years later than it was in the ‘90s. The effects mostly stand up to this day; but even where they don’t, the performances sell the story entirely.

56. The American President (1995) 

Before Aaron Sorkin created The West Wing, he wrote The American President, which saw one of the most respected movie presidents, Andrew Shepherd (Michael Douglas), fall for feisty environmental lobbyist Sydney Ellen Wade (Annette Bening). Could a widowed president ever court a girlfriend in an election year? Sorkin’s snappy dialogue shows why it wouldn’t be easy, as the two become tabloid fodder, and even bigger trouble awaits when their political agendas don’t align. Both lead actors give absolutely charming performances in this 1995 political rom-com directed by Rob Reiner.

55. True Romance (1993) 

The first screenplay Quentin Tarantino ever sold in Hollywood was 1993’s True Romance, and it became an offbeat cult classic when combined with Tony Scott’s slick direction. Christian Slater and Patricia Arquette are perfect as the flawed lovers and the rest of the cast, which includes Gary Oldman, Brad Pitt, Michael Rappaport, Val Kilmer, Samuel L. Jackson, Tom Sizemore, James Gandolfini, just to name a few, are all brilliant. It’s one scene, however, between Dennis Hopper and Christopher Walken, that steals the whole show and deserves its own placement in cinema history.

54. Unforgiven (1992)

This might be the quintessential Clint Eastwood Western – which says a lot when you realize that the man helped to define the genre, dating all the way back to his days on television (in Gunsmoke). With Unforgiven, an older Eastwood figured out how to comment on the evolution of the Western, and reflect on the moral quandaries several cowboys faced over the course of their lawless lives. This marked the beginning of a contemplative stage of Eastwood’s career, and redefined the boundaries of the Western for storytellers that followed. 

53. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

Not only is The Nightmare Before Christmas one of the best stop-motion movies of all time, but it was also a game-changer within the animation industry. The movie -- following the story of Jack Skellington turning Halloween Town into Christmas Town and trying to take over the role of Santa Claus -- has become a cultural icon. Not only is the movie celebrated during the Halloween season, but it's also become one of the best animated Christmas movies and has a wildly popular fan base – go to Disney World during Halloween and Christmas and see how popular this movie is. 

52. Natural Born Killers (1994)

Few movies in the last decade of the 20th century caused a stir quite like the big screen adventure of Mickey and Mallory Knox in Oliver Stone’s demented crime saga Natural Born Killers. Fans of the TV show Cheers got to witness a whole new side to Woody Harrelson, and he makes for one-half of an absolutely ferocious on-screen pair partnered with Juliette Lewis. Though it was only released in 1994, it is a title to point to when aiming to epitomize a certain spirit in 1990s pop culture.

51. The Rock (1994)

It is still totally bonkers to think that the mid-’90s gave us a Michael Bay action movie in which Sean Connery and Nicolas Cage got to mesh their wildly different talents. A movie that helped pencil in the blueprint for what we know as modern Bayhem, The Rock is a solid cocktail of action, comedy, and drama tied together with a surprisingly poignant message. None of that gets lost in the shuffle, either, even as the shuffle keeps viewers glued to their seats until the very last scene. You can bet this quotable, adrenaline-charged classic is still friendly with the prom queen.

50. Boyz n the Hood (1991)

Relatively few directors made great movies on their first try, and the late John Singleton did just that with 1991’s Boyz n the Hood. Set in South Central Los Angeles, the film centers on three young men, whose paths begin to diverge as they steadily approach adulthood. Singleton, who also wrote the Oscar-nominated drama, provided a nuanced look at life in a low-income neighborhood. 

In doing so, he shed light on gang violence, systemic racism, and other elements that still negatively impact many communities today. For better or worse, this well-acted and directed film is as timeless and relevant as they come.

49. The Sixth Sense (1999)

While the ending twist may have helped put the film and its director, M. Night Shyamalan, on the map near the close of the decade, The Sixth Sense is so much more than those final, incredible moments where all of the pieces fall into place (in a scene that comes after we think the story has been mostly resolved). 

What elevates The Sixth Sense to ‘90s movie greatness is the combined efforts of the stellar performances of Bruce Willis, Haley Joel Osment, Toni Collette, and Olivia Williams; of the music combined with the fantastic shots; of the use of the Philadelphia backdrop. Every scene taps into something dark, scary, heartbreaking or humorous, and the best go for a little bit of all of those things at once. 

48. Get Shorty (1995)

What is the best Elmore Leonard adaptation? There are many candidates that qualify for consideration, including Quentin Tarantino’s Jackie Brown, Steven Soderbergh’s Out Of Sight and the TV series Justified, but Barry Sonnenfeld’s Get Shorty is my uncontested contender for the title. 

It’s a dark, cynical, and hilarious take on the film industry where a shylock finds himself right at home in Los Angeles, and it brims with exceptional characters – from John Travolta’s Chili Palmer to Gene Hackman's skeezy producer Harry Zimm, to James Gandolfini's stuntman-turned-heavy Bear. The sequel that came out a decade later, 2005’s Be Cool, is dreadful, but that has thankfully not tainted its predecessor’s stellar legacy as one of the great “Hollywood on Hollywood” movies. 

47. The Rocketeer (1991) 

Believe it or not, The Rocketeer is a comic book movie. In the wake of the blockbuster success that was Batman, studios scrambled to get their own piece of that four-paneled pie; leading a pre-Marvel Disney to adapt Dave Stevens’ pulpy ‘30s throwback. Hoping this movie would be the studio’s answer to Bat-mania, director Joe Johnston’s picture suffered in the obscenely crowded summer of 1991. 

Over time, fate has been kinder to the Billy Campbell and Jennifer Connolly adventure, as it developed into a cult classic much like the original Tron. Even if audiences didn’t flock to it at first, the message was never lost, because the quality was always there. Best experienced with a heart full of nostalgia and courage, The Rocketeer's mere existence is worth celebrating. 

46. Audition (1999)

Few movies start off as unassuming as the psycho-horror Audition, whose first half sits among the legendarily prolific Takashi Miike’s most restrained directorial efforts. The story begins with Ryo Ishibashi’s widower Shigeharu Aoyama re-entering the dating world in the least natural way possible: via auditions with women who believe they’re vying for an acting role. 

Things progress in an almost mundane manner as Shigeharu becomes more attracted to the quiet and seemingly reserved Asami (Eihi Shiina), but with enough peeks into her home life to send red flags waving. What makes Audition a unique ‘90s treasure is when the wheels fall off for its dread-flooded final act, in which Asami teaches Shigeharu a torturous lesson in stringing women along. Don't try this at home.

45. Point Break (1991)

Comically manly, but in the best ways possible, Point Break is the 1990s encapsulated. Clean-cut FBI agent Johnny Utah (tremendous character name) loses himself undercover when he tries to infiltrate a gang of surfers (tremendous plot twist) who may be posing as former presidents of the United States and robbing banks. What an awesome plot. And what an awesome movie. 

Keanu Reeves and Patrick Swayze are the Yin and the Yang of Southern California cool, tapping directly into the “Brah” of it all while also delivering unforgettable action set pieces – notably, a skydiving chase without parachutes. Credit most of this to director Kathyrn Bigelow, who eventually won her Best Director Oscar for 2010’s The Hurt Locker. 

44. Clueless (1995)

We’ve seen movies put a new spin on old classics before, but rarely has the result been as entertaining as Clueless, Amy Heckerling’s take on Jane Austen’s Emma. Alicia Silverstone stars as Cher, a beautiful and rich Beverly Hills high school fashionista who decides she wants to use her popularity for the betterment of humanity. 

The 1995 coming-of-age comedy — which also stars Stacey Dash, Brittany Murphy, Paul Rudd and more — still stands up today with its iconic looks and quotable dialogue (not to mention Cher’s inspiring speech comparing refugees to guests at her father’s garden party). And has there ever been a movie takedown more savage than Tai calling Cher “a virgin who can’t drive”? As if! 

43. L.A. Confidential (1997)

Once upon a time, the noir detective story was a staple of film, but fewer and fewer examples have emerged with each decade that passes. So when a movie like Curtis Hanson's L.A. Confidential comes around, you really begin to wonder why we don’t see more of these. 

It’s an absolutely incredible film that likely would probably be better remembered if it hadn’t come out the same year as Titanic. On top of everything else, the film introduced Russell Crowe and Guy Pierce to U.S. film audiences, and for that alone, it should be recognized, but it also won Kim Basinger an Oscar for a reason.

42. The Hunt for Red October (1990)

While The Hunt for Red October was a huge success when it hit theaters in 1990, it took years for people to see it as a classic. It’s not a flawless movie. Sean Connery, as amazing as he is, plays what appears to be a Scottish Russian, not changing his accent at all. The underwater scenes of the special effects submarines, while praised at the time, have not aged well, either. Accents aside, the actors are all superb here. 

Alec Baldwin as Jack Ryan, Tim Curry, Sam Neill, Scott Glenn, James Earl Jones, Stellan Skarsgård, Fred Thompson, Courtney B. Vance, and everyone else are all amazing, and John McTiernan’s direction is snappy and perfectly paced. This is THE submarine movie. 

41. The Green Mile (1999)

Considered one of the best Stephen King adaptations of all time, The Green Mile is a fantasy drama directed by Frank Darabont, telling the story of a wrongly convicted man and his time at a prison in the 1930s and the strange supernatural events that follow his arrival. 

I feel like The Green Mile is just one movie everyone should watch at least once. It's a classic for a reason, featuring all-time career performances from Tom Hanks, Sam Rockwell, and Michael Clarke Duncan. The Green Mile will capture your heart and crush it into a million pieces by the end – and might just make one admire the horror-driven Stephen King all the more for writing such an emotional story. If you're not ugly sobbing by the end of this, you may not be watching it right. 

40. The Truman Show (1998)

Easily considered one of Jim Carrey’s best movies, The Truman Show – which is about a man who realizes his reality isn’t real – uses its star’s signature over-the-top sense of humor and physicality to make you laugh. Then his dramatic skills come to the forefront as you take this journey with Truman, and you feel all the emotions as it becomes clear that this comedy is more of a searing satire.

Overall, this film is about Truman coming to terms with the fact that the world’s been watching him live in a simulated reality, and it gives us all an example of how exploitative social media can be. That’s why The Truman Show is not only one of the best movies of the ‘90s, but it’s also one of the more relevant films when it comes to the present. 

39. Waiting for Guffman (1996)

Waiting for Guffman is mockumentary gold. Christopher Guest and his group of comedic geniuses — Catherine O'Hara, Eugene Levy, Parker Posey, etc. — bring the sleepy berg of Blane, Missouri to life, with the audience watching as a motley crew of community theater actors put on a musical about their town. 

The stakes get higher when Guest's Corky St. Clair tells everyone a Broadway production house is coming, and "we may be going to Broadway." The songs are insane, the cast is unhinged, and this movie is heaven; even more so for those who are personally familiar with the madcap process of staging plays. 

38. Dazed and Confused (1993)

It’s really hard to make a comedy that stands the test of time, yet as we get older, Dazed and Confused stays the same age, er, quality. Director Richard Linklater’s love letter to his teen years in Texas transcends generations and keeps fans coming back again and again. Sure, it’s the 1970s, but teenagers (and adults) of any generation can relate. 

Of course, it also helps that so many huge stars got their first big break in the movie, including Matthew McConaughey in his first role. Ben Affleck, Parker Posey, Cole Hauser, Anthony Rapp, Rory Cochrane, Nicky Katt, and the rest of the cast are amazing. Everyone can point to one character and say “I knew someone just like that in high school!”

37. The Matrix (1999)

It’s hard to put into words just how mindblowing The Matrix was when it first came out. Of course, the successive sequels somewhat diminished the franchise’s legacy as a whole, though make no mistake, the first movie is just as much of a thrill in the modern era as it was back in 1999. 

Keanu Reeves is the ultimate leading entity in the Wachowskis' game-changing mega-blockbuster, making every move look as cool as can be. Because of the filmmakers' work on this neo-classic (no pun), people will forever be cursed with the idea that everything we’re doing in life is a simulation, and that we’re all slowly and secretly being harvested in pods for energy by robotic overlords. Great movie, though.

36. The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)

Two years after Jim Henson’s death, son Brian Henson directed arguably the only truly great Muppets release of the entire 1990s: The Muppet Christmas Carol. (Excluding the final two years of Muppet Babies.) Based on the Charles Dickens novel that has spawned countless numbers of adaptations, the holiday film is anchored on the human side by Michael Caine’s Ebenezer Scrooge, and on the felt-covered side by Kermit and Miss Piggy’s Bob and Emily Cratchit, with Gonzo as Dickens himself. 

Though it doesn’t offer any huge adjustments to the source material, the Muppets make everything twenty-fold more charming, and Statler and Waldorf’s ghostly jam “Marley and Marley” is among the best of any original Muppet tunes. Christmas just wouldn’t be Christmas without this movie.

35. City Slickers (1991)

There are plenty of laughs to be had in Ron Underwood’s Western comedy City Slickers, and while that’s a safe bet for any of Billy Crystal’s best movies, what sets this one apart is its enormous heart. 

Crystal’s Mitch Robbins, along with pals Phil and Ed (Daniel Stern and Bruno Kirby, respectively) are all suffering midlife crises of sorts when they embark on a cattle drive across the Southwest. It was refreshing to see the men open up to each other about their childhoods, relationships, and what matters most in life. Jack Palance gives an Oscar-winning performance as Curly, and the $124 million it earned at the domestic box office made it one of the top 5 movies of 1991.

34. The Birdcage (1996)

Robin Williams was a brilliant comedian, a supernova of personality that could command our attention with his hysterical stream-of-conscious thoughts. But Williams, to me, truly shined bright when he downplayed his natural comedic energy to either try serious drama (Good Will Hunting, Dead Poets Society), or to support an equally brilliant comedic performance – as he did with Nathan Lane in The Birdcage.

While broad and flamboyant at times, The Birdcage captures the heart of a family rallying behind their beautiful son (Dan Futterman) who is getting engaged to a Conservative girl (Calista Flockhart). Williams and Lane, as an on-screen couple, are tender, touching, funny, sweet, and perfectly paired in this special gem of a film.

33. Princess Mononoke (1997)

As someone who has watched every single Hayao Miyazaki movie, there's something about Prince Mononoke that speaks deeply to my soul. While I possibly think Spirited Away is Miyazaki's best film, and I have a love for Howl's Moving Castle, this is a movie that has changed the way I view the world. 

Princess Mononoke follows the story of a young prince who discovers that the gods of the forest are upset at the humans for consuming their precious resources. While the anime film itself has breathtaking animation and a story that pulls you in; both are equally sating while leaving a desire for more. Truthfully, this is the one movie that speaks on human consumption in simple ways that everyone should be required to watch.  

32. Groundhog Day (1993)

By all accounts, the creative process behind Groundhog Day was not easy. The film was originally conceived as a darker, more philosophical movie with independent sensibilities. That’s what Bill Murray liked. Director Harold Ramis saw it as more of a good-natured and broad comedy. So they fought about it, plaguing the shoot with delays, rewrites and enough acrimony to sever their friendship for decades. 

Amidst that disharmony, or perhaps even because of that disharmony, the two comedy masters compromised and created a perfect blend of the two: a broad and funny romantic comedy that’s weird enough and dark enough to feel totally original. 

31. Scream (1996)

With A Nightmare on Elm Street and its two best sequels already under his belt (among many other frightfests), Wes Craven made horror franchise lightning strike twice with the post-modern whodunit slasher Scream, and it kept striking across two eras of sequels. Led by one of the ‘90s greatest scream queens in Neve Campbell, the 1996 classic became such a blueprint for Hollywood horror that the inciting film doesn’t feel anywhere near as novel as it did when audiences first sat down thinking they were about to watch “a Drew Barrymore movie.” 

But that opening remains chilling AF, David Arquette’s Deputy Dewey remains a loveable dork alongside Courteney Cox’s hardcore bitch Gail Weathers, and Ghostface’s pop culture-tinged massacre has only become more relevant in an ever-connected world.

30. Cape Fear (1991)

I was way too young when I watched Cape Fear for the first time. I was experienced with plenty of slasher or jump scare style horror movies and figured I’d be fine. Wrong. Cape Fear is an entirely different type of scary than what I was used to. 

With a prime Martin Scorsese at the helm and a fantastic all-in performance from Robert De Niro, it’s a relentlessly creepy and unnerving take on slow-burn vengeance. It haunted my sleep for weeks as a kid, and during an adult rewatch decades later, its themes of religion, underage sexuality, criminal justice and moral relativism were every bit as disturbing. 

29. Being John Malkovich (1999)

Being John Malkovich may not be the very best ‘90s movie, but it may very well be the strangest that still qualifies as a great time. The premise itself — that a door exists allowing others to enter the mind of another person — is odd enough, but for the person whose brain is invaded to be celebrated actor John Malkovich? 

That brilliant choice somehow gives the otherwise impossible story a slight jolt of realism, and it all comprises a cinematic experience that should not be missed. It’s also a movie full of incredible performances, as Malkovich plays a fantastic version of himself, while John Cusack and Cameron Diaz play against type about as much as possible.

28. Dave (1993)

Probably the funniest movie that uses the presidential line of succession as a plot device, Ivan Reitman’s Dave is a hilarious, charming, and oddly sentimental exploration of politics in the early 1990s. There’s just something about Kevin Kline’s portrayal of Dave Kovic that makes this movie about a presidential impersonator becoming the Commander-in-Chief so innocent and pure, especially when compared to the political climate we live in 30-plus years later. 

Whenever I revisit Dave every couple of years, it feels like opening a time capsule to the final decade of the 20th century with its optimism and promise of a better future. 

27. A League of Their Own (1992)

A League Of Their Own is too busy with meaningful character development and telling an awesome baseball story to go for jokes all the time, but on a per-attempt basis, I would put it up against almost any comedy ever made. Director Penny Marshall has a wonderful tonal sense of when her actors should play it straight, when they should add in a little humor, and when they should drunkenly pee for thirty seconds. 

The result is one of the best sports movies of all time, one that delivers all those laughs but also plays it straight enough to give viewers fantastic and relatable plots about friendship, sisterhood, and what it means to thrive and find your own space.

26. The Iron Giant (1999)

The Iron Giant is Brad Bird's heartstrings-pulling story about a young boy who befriends a massive alien robot in 1957, and it proves that a movie bombing at the box office doesn’t mean it can’t still become a cinematic classic. Though its theatrical run didn’t even make back the initial budget, thanks to its home video rollout and stellar word-of-mouth buzz, it’s now considered one of the best animated movies of all time. Rightly so, because this is one of those movies that remains timeless no matter when it’s being viewed. 

Watching Hogarth teach the Giant about life on Earth and urge him to overcome his original purpose of being a weapon never gets old. The Iron Giant remains arguably Vin Diesel’s best movie from before the Fast & Furious franchise's launch, and co-stars like Eli Marienthal, Jennifer Aniston, Harry Connick Jr., and Christopher McDonald also shine.

25. Toy Story 2 (1999)

I remember that Toy Story 2 was the first film that made me uncontrollably sob – like fat tears rolling down my face and having a stuffy nose for hours afterward, and I'm sure I'm not alone there. A sequel to Toy Story, which took the world by anthropomorphic storm with its industry-revolutionizing animation, the follow-up adventure was released in 1999, and follows Woody after he is accidentally sold to a toy collector. There, he meets companions from a former TV show that he had no idea about – a show all about him. (And Joan Cusack's Jessie, of course.)

The Toy Story 2 voice cast is stellar, and the animation was a huge step forward in CGI films, but the heart-wrenching story of love, friendship, and so much more is what made Toy Story 2 one of the best Pixar films out there – and yes, I still cry during, "When Somebody Loved Me."

24. Election (1999)

How did Reese Witherspoon not win an Oscar for her performance as Type-A goodie two-shoes Tracy Flick, the textbook overachiever who bites off more than she can chew by running for student government president? It’s possible that we have come to realize that Witherspoon might just BE Tracy Flick in real life. 

But at the time, she was a tornado of talent matching Matthew Broderick beat for beat, bringing to life the sharp school-set satire in director Alexander Payne’s screenplay. Election has as much to say about the greed and immaturity powering politics many years after its release – at every level – as it did back in 1999, which is yet another reason why it remains special.

23. Magnolia (1999)

While not the highest-ranked Paul Thomas Anderson film on this list, Magnolia is a film to be marveled at for its phenomenal ambition. The Los Angeles-based epic juggles the stories of nearly a dozen protagonists who are not only dealing with a wide variety of personal conflicts and demons but are all linked to one another in the stunning cinematic tapestry. 

As the hyper-misogynist motivational speaker Frank T.J. Mackey, Tom Cruise delivers one of his most brilliant turns, and Julianne Moore’s pharmacy monologue is flooring, but the reality is that every member of the ensemble – including Philip Seymour Hoffman, William H. Macy, Philip Baker Hall, John C. Reilly, and many more – deliver some of the best work of their respective careers. Further considering the frogs and the stunning performance of Aimee Mann’s “Wise Up,” it’s indelible cinema.

22. Tombstone (1993)

I don’t think you could ask for a more star-studded cast for any genre of film, much less a Western. 1993’s Tombstone is blessed by a top-notch cast including Kurt Russell, Val Kilmer, Sam Elliott, the late Bill Paxton, Michael Biehn, Stephen Lang, the late Powers Boothe, Thomas Haden Church, Michael Rooker, Charlton Heston, and many more, making it an instant classic in the Western genre. 

The story behind how this film came to be, along with many behind-the-scenes facts, is bizarre enough, but the struggles resulted in one of the best cowboy films of all time. And one that has stood the test of time against a similar movie released around the same time, Kevin Costner's Wyatt Earp.  

21. Beauty and the Beast (1991)

Beauty and the Beast was the first animated film to be nominated for the Best Picture Oscar, and decades later, it’s still clear that was the right call. The movie is beautiful, with early computer animation enhancing some of the most visually stunning hand-drawn shots in the medium’s history. It also has one of the best soundtracks of any Disney musical, if not any musical, full stop. This is Howard Ashman’s greatest achievement as a songwriter. 

But beyond even that, the two title characters are about as three-dimensional as any animated characters ever were. It may be a tale as old as time, but Beauty and the Beast is one the audience gets wrapped up in from the first notes to the last. It’s the definition of Disney magic.

20. The Usual Suspects (1995)

No one saw the twist ending coming. Trust me. No one. It caught audiences off guard completely, exactly the way it crashed down like a ton of bricks on Chazz Palminteri's cop. He finally understood who Keyser Soze was, and we all rushed right back into theaters to watch the puzzle snap into place all over again. 

But The Usual Suspects is more than just its “dropped shoe,” miraculous as that reveal is. The cast of colorful criminals assembled by director Bryan Singer played off of each other wonderfully, with many of them defaulting to the natural leader in Gabriel Byrne, but still finding ways to steal the spotlight every now and then. (Benicio Del Toro mumbling under his breath in the jail lineup belongs in the conversation of funniest five-minute performances, ever). As twisty crime thrillers go, few are tighter and more entertaining than this.

19. Boogie Nights (1997)

Introductions can make or break anything in this world. Careers, reputations, even the flow of a movie can be bungled if you don’t know how to open. Writer/director Paul Thomas Anderson must have known that when he made Boogie Nights, because when he introduced that picture to the world, he gave himself one hell of a calling card. 

Following young Dirk Diggler (Mark Wahlberg) in his journey through the underground of porn films, we see a man still growing up in an industry that feels as young as he is. An ensemble drama boasting the likes of Don Cheadle, Julianne Moore, Heather Graham, and Phillip Seymour Hoffman, Boogie Nights is a cautionary tale with style and tension to burn. Good luck ever listening to “Sister Christian” without having flashbacks to this big, bright, shining star that still manages to break hearts and crack jokes with everyone it meets.

18. Good Will Hunting (1997)

Good Will Hunting is one of those films that changes you forever once you watch it. Starring Matt Damon and Robin Williams, the drama follows a young janitor at MIT who's discovered to be a secret math genius. The premise itself isn't as catchy as some of the other big-time blockbusters of the 1990s, without aliens, robots or crazy action fights, but Good Will Hunting is a film that leaves its message imprinted on audiences long after the credits roll. 

A story of perseverance, hope, and so much more, this movie gave movie fans one of Robin Williams's best roles and catapulted the careers of Matt Damon and Ben Affleck. (You gotta like them apples.) This kind of film teaches you that sometimes, the people you meet turn you into your best self, so we just have to be fearless enough to go out there and find them. 

17. The Silence of the Lambs (1991)

Anthony Hopkins is fantastic in The Silence Of The Lambs, and every positive thing you’ve ever heard about his performance is deserved and probably an understatement. He’s that engrossing, but with all due respect, The Silence Of The Lambs isn’t his movie. It’s Jodie Foster’s movie, hingeing on her career-best performance here as Clarice Starling, which just gets better with every rewatch. 

Foster finds the perfect balance between uncertain and determined. She lets her FBI trainee lead character feel the weight of every obstacle, whether it be sexism, personal loss or physical danger, and then she pushes forward. With relentless determination, she just keeps going and that one step at a time, careful momentum gives the film its narrative structure and allows director Ted Demme to create one of the 90s best and most memorable movies.

16. Fargo (1996)

Joel and Ethan Coen have crafted films both stoically grounded and ludicrously fantastical in their long and storied careers, with Fargo possibly the one straddling both of those lines with the greatest of ease. The faux-kidnapping-gone-wrong and the ensuing investigation are smart story beats, and were enough to win the Coens the Best Original Screenplay Oscar, if fairly rote for the genre in general. But it’s the cast, the Minnesota location, and the singular nature of being a snow-white noir that make Fargo one of the greatest films of the decade. 

The always affable William H. Macy is aces as a man being eaten alive by guilt, opposite the gosh-darn excellent police skills of Frances McDormand’s Marge Gunderson, with Steve Buscemi and Peter Stormare as the pair of amoral criminals making everyone’s lives (and deaths) worse. Fargo is a chilling masterpiece, and it’s got nothing to do with the weather. 

15. My Cousin Vinny (1992)

Even though one of my colleagues claims her testimony was incorrect in the film, I will still stand before the court and argue that Marisa Tomei, Joe Pesci, and their cast of supporting characters make My Cousin Vinny guilty as hell of being one of the best comedies of all time.

The film is widely used in an educational capacity to showcase one of the few times that a court case is mostly portrayed accurately through a film, and to be honest, the wordplay coupled with the main character/judge dynamic is something to write home about.

14. Saving Private Ryan (1998)

For years, veterans would be the first to say that cinema's depiction of combat — especially that of World War II — is a cakewalk compared to the real thing. Because few films offered a truly accurate portrayal of the hellish, soul-crushing conditions soldiers faced, at least before the release of Saving Private Ryan.

This story of a U.S. military captain (played by Tom Hanks) tasked with leading his crew on a mission to bring a family's last living son home is easily one of Steven Spielberg’s best movies (the second to earn him a Best Director Oscar) and is widely considered to have been unjustly robbed of the Best Picture honor (which went to Shakespeare in Love that year). From the landmark D-Day sequence to the heartbreaking final act and every unforgettable moment in between, it is one of the harshest films you could ever experience, but the passion and craftsmanship put into makes for a grand reward. 

13. The Big Lebowski (1998)

I’m a Lebowski, you’re a Lebowski, we’re all Lebowskis who love the Coen brothers’ The Big Lebowski, even if its massive fandom wasn’t automatic. It was only a moderate success in the spring of 1998 when it sauntered into theaters on the heels of the Coen’s winning their first writing Oscar for Fargo a year earlier. Reviews at the time were middling, as was the audience reaction. 

Then, over the next couple of years, The Big Lebowski turned into a bonafide cult craze. Pages have been written about its status as such, but too often overlooked is what makes the movie so lovable. It’s quotable, it’s silly, and the plot is the ultimate shaggy dog story with a ridiculous McGuffin — the Dude’s rug — but as it goes for the Dude’s living room, the whole movie ties together just brilliantly. It’s world-class storytelling and the performances from Jeff Bridges, John Goodman, and the rest of the cast are perfect.  

12. Schindler's List (1993)

Sometimes what makes a movie from a particular era great is how it represents its time, but some movies would be considered an important work of art in any decade. Steven Spielberg’s Schindler’s List is one of those that transcends eras. The film is great in all the traditional ways: Liam Neeson gives a career-making performance as Oskar Schindler, an Industrialist who saved the lives of hundreds of Jews during World War II. The supporting performances are equally strong. It’s beautifully filmed. 

But beyond that, Schindler’s List is an important movie, offering audiences a sobering look at the tragic events of World War II through a character based on a real-life survivor that many were not even aware of before the movie's release. Schindler’s List is one of those movies that you don’t forget after having seen it, and it may be Steven Spielberg’s greatest achievement.

11. Toy Story (1995)

More than 25 years after moviegoers were first introduced to Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Bo Peep, and the rest of Andy’s collection, it can be easy to forget just how big the impact John Lasseter’s Toy Story had when it hit theaters in 1995. It’s the film that put Pixar on the map, and while it sadly helped kickstart the downfall of hand-drawn animation in lieu of CGI, it also paved the way for three of the greatest Hollywood sequels to ever be produced. Tom Hanks’ Woody and Tim Allen’s Buzz are an all-time great animated duo, sharing hallowed space with Bugs & Daffy and Tom & Jerry, though obviously with a lot more heart than what short-form characters are allowed.

The Toy Story franchise hinges a lot on childhood memories, nostalgia, and maintaining a sense of fun in life as one gets older, and this first film delivers the most distilled take on that idea, with Andy still attached in some way to his inner child. Life, as it were, gets way more depressing for the toys as he gets older, which perhaps is why Toy Story rewatches are all the more enjoyable in comparison.

10. Philadelphia (1993)

 Philadelphia is not only a well-made movie, but is first and foremost an important movie. LQBTQ+ rights were non-existent at the time, as the movie highlights and one cannot discount the role this movie, directed by Jonathan Demme, had in awakening the general public not only to the plight gay people faced at the time but the discrimination people with HIV/AIDS faced as well when it was released in 1993. Tom Hanks’ portrayal of a gay man with AIDS who is fired from his job won the actor his first Oscar and for good reason, he’s amazing. Equally amazing is Denzel Washington, who plays Hanks’ character’s (Andrew Beckett) lawyer, Joe Miller. 

Miller, like most people in 1993 when Philadelphia was released, is scared of Beckett and AIDS, because he, like many, didn’t understand it. It’s Miller’s reaction that resonates with audiences. After watching Beckett get asked to move to a “private room” at a library, Miller realizes the discrimination is similar to that faced by African-Americans in the United States, and by the end of the film, he touches Beckett’s lesion-covered face, after learning the truth about AIDS. It’s a powerful moment that still reverberates today. 

9. Fight Club (1999)

So many “futuristic” sci-fi movies from years past have failed to successfully depict modern society and behavior, but David Fincher’s Fight Club now feels it was adapted from some of Nostradamus’ naughtier quatrains, instead of Chuck Palahniuk’s 1996 novel. Seemingly both a love letter to, and a cautionary tale about, nihilistic anti-consumerism and anarchy, Fight Club features one of cinema’s most convoluted love triangles in Edward Norton’s spine-lacking unnamed narrator, Brad Pitt’s ultra-male Tyler Durden, and Helena Bonham Carter’s impulsively erratic Marla Singer. A demented character study in part, the movie oozes testosterone both before and after the titular underground brawls come together, and maybe even oozes a bit of estrogen when Meat Loaf’s Bob is around. 

For all of the smart and discussion-worthy topics that are tackled with face-pounding glee, Fight Club is, unfortunately, the kind of movie whose natural sheen has been somewhat tarnished by a fanbase who lost the point of the satire, but still holds so many visual and verbal treasures for those outside such bubbles. Especially for any new viewers who manage to go into it without knowing what kicks off the final act. It’s hard to think of a ‘90s movie with a more story-heightening ending, and The Pixies’ “Where Is My Mind?” remains an inarguably perfect needle drop.  

8. Pulp Fiction (1994)

Pulp Fiction changed the rules of Hollywood moviemaking. That’s no exaggeration. Before Quentin Tarantino fired a shotgun blast through the screen with his nonlinear gangster picture, there was a chasm separating big-budgeted studio films and independent cinema that usually thrived on the film festival circuit before making its way to art house theaters. In the years following Pulp Fiction, studios, actors and audiences chased talent and inspiration, wherever it could be found. 

The irony of Pulp Fiction blazing so many trails is that the movie itself is a pastiche of well-worn genres that Tarantino pored over while working the counter of a video shop. He’s paying homage to countless, gratuitous stories that had come before it. Only, Pulp Fiction built on the buzz created with Reservoir Dogs to attract a constellation of stars: John Travolta, Samuel L. Jackson, Uma Thurman, Harvey Keitel, Tim Roth, Christopher Walken, Ving Rhames, and Bruce Willis. Pulp Fiction remains one of the best scripts you will ever read, crisscrossing itself at various intersections and packing repeated surprises (usually of the violent nature). But it was Tarantino’s powerful voice, and his use of soundtrack, that had clones copying his style for decades… and still, to this day.  

7. Jurassic Park (1993)

Anticipation for Jurassic Park began years before its release in the summer of 1993. Michael Crighton sold the rights to the film before he finished the book and because Steven Spielberg was the director who acquired it, the hype started early. Then, in June 1993, it finally hit theaters and was an absolute cultural sensation. Critics loved it, praising the unbelievable special effects and realism of the dinosaurs. Speilberg and the team at ILM broke so much new ground in creating the creatures that it changed how movies were made. Audiences loved it even more and showed up at theaters in hordes. Jurassic Park broke every box record there was to break. It had the biggest opening day, the biggest opening weekend, and finally, it became the highest-grossing movie of all time.

Jurassic Park also earned a slew of awards, mostly for its technical achievements, but that doesn’t mean the acting performances were bad, they were fantastic. Jeff Goldblum, Sam Neill, Laura Dern, and Sir Richard Attenborough are all perfect in their roles. Finally, there’s the score by John Williams, which remains one of the most iconic of all time. 

6. Se7en (1995)

The film that rescued David Fincher’s career from the stench of Alien 3, and proved that the versatile music director could apply his grungy, moody, techno-acid style to a feature-length nightmare. It’s easy to say now that Fincher was destined to be a contemporary, visionary genius of a filmmaker. But prior to The Social Network, Zodiac, and Fight Club, we needed to see some evidence. Consider this disturbing plunge into the moral sewers to be Exhibit A in the case for Fincher’s mastery. 

Se7en is routine in many ways. It’s set in a rainy and nondescript city, which feels like San Francisco but could be anywhere. It follows odd-couple cops (Morgan Freeman, Brad Pitt) tracking a mysterious serial killer who cunningly stays one step ahead of them. But the performances are remarkable, including Gwyneth Paltrow as Pitt’s loving and innocent newlywed, plucked and moved to the grimy city so her husband can do his job. The film’s riveting conclusion – which benefits from the icy calm delivery of Kevin Spacey as John Doe – elevated Se7en above most others in the genre. Now, when someone asks, “What’s in the box?” you don’t have to say, “Gwyneth’s head.” Just tell them the box contains an unforgettable masterpiece. 

5. Heat (1995)

Look at just about every list breaking down the best heist films ever made and the movie you’re probably going to see the most is Michael Mann’s 1995 crime epic, Heat. With some of the most iconic (and loudest) robbery and shoot-out sequences, the first on-screen pairing of Al Pacino and Robert De Niro (both were in The Godfather Part II but appeared in different timelines), and an incredible cat-and-mouse story that uses Los Angeles as a backdrop better than any other film, there’s so much to love about this legendary film.

On top of all of that, Heat has become one of the most influential films of all time in the nearly 30 years since its theatrical release. Watch movies like The Town, Widows, and even The Dark Knight, and you’ll see how Mann’s thriller was so influential. Hell, even the Grand Theft Auto franchise has taken aspects of the movie to create some of the most action-packed video game moments of all time.  

4. The Lion King (1994)

1994’s The Lion King is perhaps the most effective entry in the Disney Renaissance era when it comes to combining gorgeous animation, original songs, and a story that continues to pack a punch decades later. As the coming-of-age story for cub-turned-king Simba, the film delivers arguably the most famous Disney death with the demise of Mufasa, and Scar’s villain song is both incredibly catchy and incredibly chilling. Aladdin lyricist Tim Rice joined forces with Elton John for the songs, while Hans Zimmer composed the score, earning The Lion King an Academy Award for Best Original Score, while “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” won for Best Original Song.

The Lion King was a massive commercial hit, becoming the highest-grossing traditionally animated film and holding that record to this day. The original movie also has a legacy that has extended to two TV shows, two direct-to-video sequels, and the 2019 CGI remake that was massively successful for Disney, although divisive among fans of the original animated version. Plus, there’s a generation of adults who learned about coups and succession crises thanks to Mufasa, Scar, and Simba back in the ‘90s. What’s not to roar with love about? 

3. Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)

Taking what he learned from making The Terminator and the two movies that followed (Aliens and The Abyss), James Cameron gave audiences not just a sequel in July 1991, but a game-changer of a film that completely rewrote the summer blockbuster and the action genre as we know it. While The Terminator was a small-scale sci-fi thriller about a futuristic cyborg sent back in time to kill a waitress before she could give birth to humanity’s last hope against extinction, T2 was a massive epic with numerous iconic action sequences and CGI that still holds up decades later.

The movie also gave us one of the best on-screen heroes with Arnold Schwarnegger’s T-800, a reprogrammed Terminator sent back not to kill John Connor but to protect him from the more advanced and more lethal T-1000, a character that remains an all-time villain. It is hard to imagine a timeline where Terminator 2: Judgment Day doesn’t exist, but luckily that’s a reality we don’t have to experience. 

2. Goodfellas (1990)

Of everything that Goodfellas is in part — a mobster saga, a crime drama, an ensemble biopic, etc. — it can’t properly be boxed into such a limited description, though it’s certainly safer to use fewer words when the Gambino crime family’s around, lest Joe Pesci’s Tommy DeVito lose his temper. Based on reporter (and eventual co-screenwriter) Nicholas Pileggi’s 1985 Wiseguy: Life in a Mafia Family, the film rides on the back of Ray Liotta’s Henry Hill, whose idea of the American Dream is to be living it up as a made man, but realizes over and over again how hard such a goal is to attain when everyone else around is just as hungry and ruthless. 

In many ways, it’s a perfect counterbalance to The Godfather saga, sharing similarities such as memorable food scenes and a stacked cast (with some mutual actors like Robert De Niro and Frank Sivero). But unlike Francis Ford Coppola’s masterpieces, Goodfellas was far less successful at the Oscars, with only Pesci taking home the gold, despite plenty of accolades earned elsewhere. Like much of Scorsese’s work, it’s only become more appreciated with time, and easily stands out as one of the best movies not just of the ‘90s, but of any era. 

1. The Shawshank Redemption (1994)

“Get busy living, or get busy dying” may be the better remembered quote from Frank Darabont’s The Shawshank Redemption, but it’s the line that Red (Morgan Freeman) says in the final moments of the film that sums up the heart and soul of this story. Not only is The Shawshank Redemption our #1 pick for the best ‘90s movies, but it’s also easily one of the best adaptations of a Stephen King story – in this case, the novella, Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption.

The movie follows Andy Dufresne (Tim Robbins), a banker who’s wrongfully convicted of murdering his wife and her lover, and sent to prison. For a movie that doesn’t shy away from the brutality this character experiences throughout his years behind bars – both at the hands of some of his fellow inmates, and the warden and guards – The Shawshank Redemption never loses sight of that ultimate message of hope – the thing that Andy clings to every step of the way. It’s there in the friendships he makes, and in the moments of happiness Andy manages to find. And it’s there in the final words Red says in the closing narration: “I hope.” 

Disney has created some incredible songs and has captured generations of musical lovers, from sad songs to uplifting songs and more. But sometimes, there are songs in movies that just should not be there, and today, we are going to talk about 32 Disney songs that just aren’t good and should never have been in their movies. 

“Fixer Upper” (Frozen)

So even if Frozen was a massive hit for Disney when it was released, let’s be openly honest here and say that “Fixer Upper” is just not a hit for many reasons. 

I feel like Frozen was so focused on the relationship between Elsa and Anna that a romance almost felt kind of forced, but then “Fixer Upper” came around, and it was just uncomfortable the whole time. 

“Fathoms Below” (The Little Mermaid)

I think you’d have to be insane not to love the movie that started the Disney Renaissance films, and the music from The Little Mermaid is pretty much loved worldwide – but you never see people liking “Fathoms Below” for a good reason. 

The song is pretty forgettable in several ways, but it’s also not super good compared to many of the other songs from the famous musical. 

“This Is The Thanks I Get?!” (Wish)

Wish was split between critics, and one reason was that many felt King Magnifico, the Disney villain, fell flat. And his villain song, “This Is The Thanks I Get?!” fell even flatter. 

It’s such a shame. Chris Pine is a great actor but should have been given a better villain song. The lyric, “I let you live here for free, and I don’t even charge you rent.” Like, duh – that’s the point. Who wrote these? 

“Human Again” (Beauty and the Beast)

Beauty and the Beast has some of the most iconic Disney songs ever, but “Human Again” ranks at the bottom of that list. 

It’s just forgettable in so many ways and doesn’t fit with the whole vibe of the film. I get that these objects want their bodies once more to be human, but not to be mean, but I don’t care about you. I care about Belle and the Beast and their love story.  

“This Wish” (Wish)

Wish didn’t have great songs, and “This Wish” was probably the best out of all the mediocre ones, but it wasn’t the best version of the classic Disney “I Want” songs. 

Star Ariana DeBose shines in her role, and her voice is stunning, which we’ve all known from her time in the original Hamilton cast and West Side Story cast, but this song wasn’t. The lyrics aren’t the best and are just not as inspiring as others. 

“Kanine Krunchies” (101 Dalmatians)

Why are there even songs in 101 Dalmatians? The only song I remembered was “Cruella De Vil,” but I suppose that was for good reason because "Kanine Krunchies" is awful and doesn’t fit in the film.

“A Place Called Slaughter Race” (Wreck-It-Ralph 2)

The older I get, the more I realize that Wreck-It-Ralph 2 wasn’t a great sequel, and there are many reasons why. I don’t remember half of what happened because it was so forgettable, but this song? "A Place Called Slaughter Race" of all things to sing? Why? 

“Sing Sweet Nightingale” (Cinderella)

I like Cinderella in comparison to many of the other earlier Disney princesses. Cinderella’s voice is beautiful, but this song – sung by the step sisters – I could live the rest of my life without hearing it again. I don’t need those shrill voices of "Sing Sweet Nightingale" anymore. 

“Reindeer Are Better Than People” (Frozen)

Frozen has some fantastic songs, but others just don’t hit, and “Reindeer Are Better than People” is one of them. 

Not only is it short – barely a minute long – it’s just a guy singing to his reindeer about how much he hates people and prefers reindeer company. There are no great lyrics there. Jonathan Groff’s movies and TV shows are great and he’s so talented and has such a fantastic voice, but it was squandered in Frozen. 

“It’s Gonna Be Great” (Winnie The Pooh)

So the 2001 Winnie the Pooh movie is cute and full of fun little gags and the characters we all know and love, but “It’s Gonna Be Great” makes me sad and annoyed, too. It’s the perfect song to show how different Eeyore is from everyone else and how he is not like Tigger whatsoever, but it’s just that it’s repetitive. It drives me up the wall. 

“A Guy Like You” (The Hunchback of Notre Dame)

The Hunchback of Notre Dame has one of the best Disney villain songs of all time, “Hellfire,” but it also has “A Guy Like You,” so it balances itself out, I guess. 

The song feels mocking in a way. The gargoyles are singing it to Quasi to make him feel better about himself after he feels he’ll never be loved, and it almost feels like they’re making up reasons that he’s loveable and trying to be genuine, but it falls flat. 

“One Last Hope” (Hercules)

Hercules is an underrated movie and I love it. Hercules is my Roman Empire, and I still think it’s one of the best Disney movies ever. But “One Last Hope” is a rip-off of “Friend Like Me.”  Obviously, it’s not the same premise, and the actors are different, but “One Last Hope” tries to imitate Genie’s quirkiness from Aladdin and build up our hero into something bigger than he is, but it doesn’t work the same. 

“The Siamese Song” (The Lady and the Tramp)

Duh. This has to be on the list. 

Not only is “The Siamese Song” from Lady and the Tramp annoying, but it’s also problematic for very obvious reasons. I’m pretty sure we’ve all collectively agreed to forget about this song in general. 

“When I See An Elephant Fly” (Dumbo)

I learned that I like Dumbo way more than I thought I did as a kid because I sobbed during “Baby Mine,” but now I watched “When I See An Elephant Fly,” and I think, “Hmm…maybe not the best choice in music.”

I won’t even touch the crow issue with a ten-foot pole, but the song is repetitive and not super catchy. It has a decent beat, but that’s about it for me. 

“Some Things Never Change” (Frozen 2)

Frozen 2 is just alright. Truthfully, it felt like Anna (voiced by Kristen Bell) took a backseat in this movie to pave the way for Elsa’s true story (which I liked the most about it). But the music for the other characters didn’t hit as hard. 

Case and point – “Some Things Never Change.” It’s meant to be the opening song and tries to imitate “For The First Time In Forever,” but it doesn’t feel the same and is pretty slow. 

“Perfect Isn’t Easy” (Oliver And Company)

Oliver & Company is one of those films that fell under the rug, and “Perfect Isn’t Easy” is the perfect example of why because most of the songs weren’t super good. It doesn’t even matter that the actress who sings this song is the utterly talented Bette Midler – it’s just a silly song that attempts to tell jokes, but none of them quite hit the mark, and then it falls to the ground of the forgettable Disney songs. 

“One Little Slip” (Chicken Little)

The early 2000s and 2010s CGI films for Disney were a tough time when they were trying to improve their technology, and Chicken Little was an unfortunate calamity from that. 

Critics panned the film itself, and honestly, years later, I can admit that it’s not a good movie. Chicken Little isn’t a musical, but the opening song, “One Little Slip,” is as forgettable as this movie is. 

“Trashin’ The Camp” (Tarzan)

Phil Collins created an excellent soundtrack for Tarzan, but “Trashin’ The Camp” was not a great addition. The song is honestly annoying and aggravating to the ears, and I suppose that makes sense for what the jungle animals are doing to the camp – trashing it – but it’s just so bad, and in a movie that has “You’ll Be In My Heart” and “Son of a Man,” that’s a sin. 

“Yodel-Adle-Eedle-Idle-Oo” (Home On The Range)

Home on the Range is another pretty forgettable Disney movie, and “Yodel-Adle-Eedle-Idle-Oo” is the most forgettable Disney villain song. I didn’t even recall this behind a song before researching this article. Sung by Randy Quaid, it is just a yodel song meant to show that the main villain, Alameda Slim, can lure animals to him, and it’s just…weird. 

“Scales And Arpeggios” (Aristocats)

Look, I know I was a kid once, too. I had to learn my “Scales and Arpeggios” when I played instruments and sang, but this song from The Aristocats hurt my ears. 

I know they’re just kids, and I know that they’re not doing anything inherently wrong. They’re just trying to learn how to sing and play piano, but if I listen to more squeaky voices sing these songs, I might lose my mind. 

“What Made The Red Man Red?” (Peter Pan)

Ooh boy. How do I go about this? The original Peter Pan overall is quite enjoyable, but the song regarding the Native Americans was, ah…not good. Not good at all. 

“What Made The Red Man Red?” is possibly the most audacious Disney song as it is primed with racist ideas of what the Native Americans were back in the 1950s. Thankfully, most Disney songs are nowhere near as bad as this one, but this is pretty high on the terrible song list. 

“The Scuttlebutt” (2023’s The Little Mermaid)

I love Lin-Manuel Miranda songs, but “The Scuttlebutt” from the 2017 live-action remake of The Little Mermaid can take a seat, please. Even Awkwafina and David Diggs could not save this song. It’s just not good; I don’t care what anyone says. I don’t need to hear the gossip, gag, or whatever it is that Scuttle wants to deliver to me if that’s the song the bird sings. 

“Pink Elephant Parade” (Dumbo)

No, what I have creepily screenshotted is not from one of the best horror movies out there – it’s from Dumbo. I’m pretty sure every kid at some point had nightmares from the “Pink Elephant Parade” song from Dumbo. The context behind it isn’t wrong – Dumbo was drunk for the first time, so it’s natural he’d see strange things, but this song is just strangely animated and scares me even now as an adult. 

“The Morning Report” (The Lion King) 

The Lion King has some of the best music ever written for an animated film – heck, it has some of the best music written ever if we’re honest. But “The Morning Report” was completely unnecessary. It’s not bad. Nothing Elton John writes is ever wrong, but compared to the rest of the soundtrack, it’s unnecessary and takes away the film's vibe. 

“A Girl Worth Fighting For” (Mulan)

Mulan does have some of the best Disney music. It’s not heavily painted in musical format, making the songs used even more effective because they carry so much meaning in the film. However, “A Girl Worth Fighting For” could have been omitted. 

The only thing I like about it is the way it ends, and the happy mood of the film suddenly shifts to much darker when they stumble across that burned village. But the song is pretty agitating to listen to, and truthfully, the lyrics are kind of meh compared to today’s standards. 

“Lack Of Education” (The Fox and the Hound)

The Fox and the Hound isn’t known for its music, as it’s not a musical, but it does have some songs in it that are good – however, “Lack of Education” is not one of them.  Truthfully, this song annoys me because it feels like the animals are speaking to each other rather than singing, and I hate that kind of music so much. 

“Hello, Little Girl” (Into The Woods)

I know that “Hello, Little Girl” is part of the original Into the Woods musical, and Johnny Depp was great as the Wolf in the film version, which I’ve rewatched before. But, still, I wouldn’t say I like the song – especially in the movie. 

I get weird predator vibes from The Wolf, and I know that’s sort of the point, but I think it’s just the lyrics that make me so uncomfortable, and I do not want this song in this soundtrack. I could live without it. 

“Days In The Sun” (2017’s Beauty And The Beast)

The 2017 live-action Beauty and the Beast has some great performances and even introduced us to a new original song, “Evermore,” which was beautiful. But this original, “Days in the Sun,” didn’t need to be there. 

It’s a song sung by the castle objects, and it’s a depressing tune about them singing about their “days in the sun” as humans during happier times. I mean, why? Why do we need this? This is supposed to make me happy. 

“When I Am Older” (Frozen 2)

“When I Am Older” tries to capture the magic of “In Summer” in Frozen 2 and fails miserably. The only thing good about this is Josh Gad’s excellent voice acting, but that’s about it. 

“Savages” (Pocahontas)

Pocahontas released “Colors of the Wind,” arguably one of the best Disney songs of all time, but “Savages” is one of the worst. It’s nice that the song points out that both sides of war experience racism, not just one, but it’s repetitive and forgettable. 

“Say It With A Slap” (Fun And Fancy Free)

Fun and Fancy-Free was a Disney film from 1947 that pretty much vanished into thin air, and it has one of the worst Disney songs ever, “Say It With A Slap.”

The premise of the song? You can show your love by slapping your friends or significant others. What? Excuse me? I think the heck-not.  

“Heigh-Ho” (Snow White And The Seven Dwarves) 

With the upcoming live-action remake of Snow White, I had to put “Heigh-Ho” on here because I’m so tired of this song. I don’t want to hear it anymore. It’s repetitive and annoying, and if I have to whistle one more time, I think I will go crazy. Those dwarves don’t have to sing every time they go home, please. 

Disney certainly has some great songs out there, but next time, skip these and check out some of the better ones. I think I’ll listen to “Let It Go” instead of any of these. 

Sometimes, being the lead character in a film does not pay off quite like it does to play second (or even third or fourth) fiddle, and the 1990s was an especially great time to take those sorts of roles. That being said, there are some secondary characters from this era who don't quite get the attention that they deserve today. We cover both of these facets as we look back at some of the best movies of the ‘90s and the most brilliantly conceived supporting character in each of them below.

Darryl Albrecht (The Crow)

Best known as Winston Zeddemore from the Ghostbusters movies, Ernie Hudson’s role as Sergeant Darryl Albrecht in 1994’s The Crow is one of his most overlooked. After covering the murder case of Eric Draven (the late Brandon Lee) and his wife, Shelley, the honest cop becomes an accomplice to the resurrected rock musician in his mission for revenge.

Ricky Baker (Boyz N The Hood)

One of the most important ’90s movies centered on Black characters is writer and director John Singleton’s Boyz n the Hood — one of the first films to offer an authentic inside look at the hardships of inner city life. This is most profoundly expressed in the untimely murder of promising young athlete Ricky Baker (Morris Chestnut) near the end of the powerful 1991 drama.

Oda Mae Brown (Ghost)

For the murdered Sam Wheat (Patrick Swayze), the only hope to reach out to his lover, Molly (Demi Moore), is a medium who discovers her abilities when she begins to hear him in Ghost. Whoopi Goldberg earned a well-deserved Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her scene-stealing performance as Oda Mae Brown that is not merely the comic relief of this classic 1990 romantic fantasy, but also its heart.

Bubba (Forrest Gump)

Forrest Gump fans might agree the film’s strongest relationship is not between Tom Hanks’ titular character and Jenny Curran (Robin Wright), but between him and his Army buddy, Benjamin Buford Blue, or “Bubba.” Mykelti Williamson makes a profound impression in director Robert Zemeckis’ Best Picture Oscar winner as his best-known character – whose death in Vietnam inspires Forrest to become a shrimp fisherman.

Max Cherry (Jackie Brown)

Based on Elmore Leonard’s novel, Rum Punch, Jackie Brown has one of the most colorful character ensembles in a Quentin Tarantino movie — especially with bail bondsman Max Cherry. The late Robert Forster got an Oscar nod for playing one of the few characters in a Tarantino movie who feels completely worth rooting for without sacrificing your own moral dignity.

John Coffey (The Green Mile)

John Coffey is wrongfully put on death row after he is found holding two murdered little girls (whom he later reveals he was trying to resurrect with his extraordinary healing powers). The late Michael Clarke Duncan’s Oscar-nominated, powerhouse performance in Frank Darabont’s adaptation of Stephen King’s The Green Mile is one of the most heartbreaking of the decade, especially knowing his character’s undeserved impending fate will prevent him from helping people in need.

Tommy DeVito (Goodfellas)

The central character of Goodfellas may be Henry Hill (Ray Liotta), but the most memorable performance in the classic Martin Scorsese movie is easily Joe Pesci’s Academy Award-winning turn as Tommy DeVito. The fast-talking, borderline sociopathic loose cannon — yet, still one of the 1994 biographical drama’s more likable characters — would practically redefine cinema’s perception of the mafioso.

George Downes (My Best Friend's Wedding)

In a story about a woman out to self-servingly ruin a happy couple’s impending nuptials, it certainly helps to have a moral center like Julianne’s (Julia Roberts) editor and friend, George Downes – who reluctantly helps with her scheme despite constant attempts to end it. Rupert Everett’s defining role is key the enduring charm of My Best Friend’s Wedding and why it is remembered as one of the best romantic-comedies of its time, if not ever.

Dusty (Twister)

The ‘90s are filled with memorable performances by Philip Seymour Hoffman, but one of the most scene-stealing standouts has to be Dustin “Dusty” Davis in 1996’s Twister. The fun-loving, incessantly optimistic storm-chaser is such a jovial presence in the classic disaster movie that we wish the late Academy Award winner was able to appears in the upcoming sequel, Twisters, to reprise the role.

Genie (Aladdin)

What makes Genie such a beloved and dynamic character is not just his refreshing loyalty to Scott Weinger’s eponymous character in 1992’s Aladdin – even in spite of his obligation to grant the poor, young man three wishes. Robin Williams does not just voice one character in the acclaimed Disney animated film, but several in one, and to deliriously funny effect.

Samuel Gerard (The Fugitive)

The 1993 film adaptation of the hit 1960s series The Fugitive puts the viewer in a moral crossroads, as we are inclined to root for Harrison Ford’s prison escapee Richard Kimble, searching for his wife’s true killer. However, it’s hard not to also root for the man tracking him, Deputy Marshal Samuel Gerard, played by Tommy Lee Jones in an Academy Award-winning performance so charismatic, he earned himself a spin-off with 1998’s U.S. Marshals.

Doc Holliday (Tombstone)

Tombstone is considered to be the 1990s’ better Wyatt Earp biopic, when compared to Kevin Costner’s Wyatt Earp from 1994. But what makes the 1993 dramatization of the legendary O.K. Corral standoff a modern western masterpiece is not just Kurt Russell’s lead performance, but Val Kilmer’s scintillating performance as fable gunfighter, Doc Holliday.

Jay And Silent Bob (Clerks)

There are actually many Kevin Smith movies that highlight the iconic bromance that is Jay and Silent Bob, played by Jason Mewes and Smith, respectively. But these inseparable and, in some surprising occasions, insightful stoners shine brightest as supporting characters in 1994’s Clerks in the awe-inspiring way they make an enduring impression on the story by not doing much at all.

Bill Lumbergh (Office Space)

A box office flop that went on to be a classic, writer/director Mike Judge’s Office Space offers a satirical but stunningly accurate depiction of the miserable workplace atmosphere. The monarch of mundanity in this case is Initech VP Bill Lumbergh, portrayed with incomparably slow-paced drawl and dementedly deadpan energy by the vastly underrated supporting actor Gary Cole.

Lumiere (Beauty And The Beast)

The curse affecting the Beast and his house staff in 1992’s Beauty and the Beast may have taken away Lumiere’s human form, but not his humanity, nor his infectious swagger. Voiced by the late Jerry Orbach donning a French accent, the sentient candle holder never fails to be the life — and light — of the party.

Mushu (Mulan)

The most popular of Eddie Murphy’s voice acting performances may be Donkey in the Shrek movies, but Disney fans have a special place in their hearts for Mushu. The plucky, yet boisterous, dragon — who was almost voiced by Joe Pesci — is sent to assist Mulan (Ming-Na Wen) in battle and provide sharp comic relief that was sadly missing from Mulan’s live-action remake in 2020.

Red (The Shawshank Redemption)

While primarily about Andy Dufresne’s (Tim Robbins) experience in the titular penitentiary, you could argue that Frank Darabont’s 1994 Stephen King adaptation The Shawshank Redemption is really Ellis Boyd “Red” Redding’s story. In addition to narrating, the transformation that Morgan Freeman’s smuggler undergoes during his decades locked up is brilliant.

Tatum Riley (Scream)

Most old school slasher movies consist of a final girl and a bunch of forgettable cannon fodder, but Tatum Riley defied the odds in a horror movie that changed the game in 1996. Rose McGowan’s performance as Sydney Prescott’s supportive and spunky best friend is one the original Scream cast’s best and makes her memorable death scene particularly devastating.

Sally (The Nightmare Before Christmas)

We can empathize with Jack Skellington’s (Chris Sarandon) vying for a change in scenery, but the most empathetic arc in The Nightmare Before Christmas is that of Sally (Catherine O’Hara). The kindhearted, living rag doll’s story is one of tragic neglect – not just by her captor, Dr. Finklestein, but also by Jack himself until he comes to realize they were made for each other.

Lynn Sear (The Sixth Sense)

Many of Toni Collette’s best movies just happen to be in the horror variety, including one of M. Night Shyamalan’s greatest movies: 1999’s The Sixth Sense. The Australian actor earned her sole Oscar nomination for her harrowingly grounded performance as Lynn Sear — a mother desperate to understand what troubles her child (Haley Joel Osment), unaware he is medium.

Marla Singer (Fight Club)

There have been countless discussions surrounding the complexity of Fight Club’s central “duo,” but not enough about what makes Marla Singer (Helena Bonham Carter) an equally dynamic character. By the end of David Fincher’s 1999 masterpiece, we come to understand her more empathetic qualities similar to Edward Norton’s Narrator, while she also boasts a destructive cynicism similar to Tyler Durden (Brad Pitt) – making her a perfect match for both.

Walter Sobchak (The Big Lebowski)

One of the greatest mysteries in the Coen Brothers’ 1998 cult favorite comedy is how the persistently laid back The Dude (Jeff Bridges) came to be friends with the problematically uptight Walter Sobchak (John Goodman). However, it is a pairing we are thankful for, particularly for the way the Vietnam-obsessed, avid bowler contributes to some of the funniest quotes in The Big Lebowski.

Steve Stifler (American Pie)

Seann William Scott defined an entire generation of cinematic douchebaggery by starring in 1999’s American Pie cast as Steve Stifler. Scott's commitment to making “the Stifmeister” egregiously unlikable makes the performance a wonder to behold.

Timon And Pumbaa (The Lion King)

We will wait as long as we must before you can name a more iconic Disney duo than the classic The Lion King characters Timon (Nathan Lane) and Pumbaa (Ernie Sabella). It is no wonder the hilarious meerkat and warthog — who teach Simba the ways of “Hakuna Matata” — got their own series the spin-off from the 1994 blockbuster. 

Trinity (The Matrix)

A good opening scene can really sell a good action film, which is why it is a good thing that Trinity owns the beginning of The Matrix. Keanu Reeves’ Neo may be “The One,” but Carrie Anne-Moss’ rebel shows skill and ambition in Wachowski’s 1999 sci-fi thriller that can make you believe in destiny.

Mona Lisa Vito (My Cousin Vinny)

The controversy surrounding Marisa Tomei’s Best Supporting Actress Oscar win for the hilarious courtroom drama My Cousin Vinny — as recalled by MovieWeb — has never made sense to us. The vivacious, mile-a-minute delivery of the case-winning testimony by Mona Lisa Vito — a character Tomei would love to play again — is one of the most electrifying scenes in any ‘90s comedy and clearly deserves the statuette on its own.

Mia Wallace (Pulp Fiction)

Whether or not this revolutionary 1994 crime thriller is Quentin Tarantino’s best movie might be debatable, but there is no question that stand-out supporting character is the dazzling Mia Wallace. Uma Thurman’s alluring, charmingly eccentric performance in the revolutionary crime thriller is one of the most powerful among the Pulp Fiction cast, which is really saying something.

Zed (Men In Black)

What makes Men in Black a near-perfect marriage of sci-fi and comedy is not just the equally clever use of elements from either genre, but its by-the-book cop drama structure. For instance, the late Rip Torn plays Zed no different from how an actor might play a 1970s police captain, complete with hilariously deadpan reactions to otherwise bizarre, otherworldly activity.

Miles Dyson (Terminator 2: Judgment Day)

Can you imagine discovering that you are responsible for an impending apocalypse brought on by technology like Miles Dyson (Joe Morton) does in 1991’s Terminator 2: Judgment Day? For that reason, it could safe to call the Cyberdyne engineer’s ill-fated arc one of the more tragic from the Terminator movies overall.

Norm Gunderson (Fargo)

One of the most underrated roles in the already underrated John Carroll Lynch’s career appears in one of the Coen Brothers’ best movies, Fargo. While not involved with any particularly memorable scenes from the 1996 crime thriller, Norm Gunderson’s support she shows for his police chief wife, Marge (Frances McDormand) — for whom he left the force when they became a couple — is something ever husband should aspire to.

Emily Montgomery (In & Out)

Joan Cusack earned her second Oscar nomination for playing In & Out's Emily Montgomery – who discovers her fiancée’s (Kevin Kline) revelations about his homosexuality as they are about to get married. While this classic LGBTQ+ comedy is noted as an inspiring story of self-acceptance, you cannot help but empathize with Emily’s manic reaction to the news.

Chris Shiherlis (Heat)

The most involving member of Neil McCauley’s (Robert DeNiro) heist crew is Chris Shiherlis (Val Kilmer), whose backstory as a former family man is one of the biggest surprises in Heat. However, the sharp-shooting thief is also at the center of one of the the greatest mysteries surrounding Michael Mann’s 1995 crime thriller — that being, how did he escape that climactic shootout and where did he go? 

Sometimes, it is not just the primary protagonist that keeps us wanting to revisit our favorites ‘90s movies, as these amazing supporting characters prove.

Disney Plus is already one of the more popular streaming services in the world, but if you are one of the people who doesn’t have it yet, you may be out of excuses. A new Disney Plus deal that provides three months of the ad-supported pier for $1.99 per month just dropped. It’s hard to imagine a better deal for Disney Plus being possible, so it’s absolutely worth taking advantage of.

But then, once you have your super cheap Disney Plus price for the next three months, just what are going to do with it? There’s so much available to watch that honestly the hardest part may be figuring out where to start. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to get your money’s worth out of your new discounted Disney Plus subscription.

The Infinity Saga

There are plenty of original Marvel series available to enjoy on Disney Plus, but if you’re a serious fan of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, then one of the things that makes Disney Plus special is that it keeps all the existing content in one place. You can watch the first three phases of the MCU, from Iron Man to Avengers: Endgame thanks to the recent addition of The Incredible Hulk and Spider-Man: Homecoming, two movies that hadn’t been on the service until recently due to rights issues. You can even include all the One Shot live-action shorts that were originally released as DVD extras.

That’s 22 movies. Limit yourself to one a day, and you’ll still use up most of your first month of Disney Plus working your way through the franchise. Once you’re done with that, you can get started on Phase 4 and enjoy all the series and additional movies that have come out since then.

The Complete Life Of Ahsoka Tano 

Maybe the reason you decided to pick up Disney Plus now is that you heard you could watch Ahsoka, the newest Original show. But just who the heck is Ahsoka Tano? If you didn’t watch the Star Wars animated series The Clone Wars or Rebels then there’s a lot you don’t know about this new show, but guess what? Disney Plus has you covered.

Star Wars: The Clone Wars originally ran for six seasons on TV, then got a seventh and final season exclusive to Disney Plus. Star Wars: Rebels ran for an additional four seasons on top of that. That’s a lot of TV, but you now have access to all of it, and if you get started, you can catch up before Ahsoka runs its final episode and enjoy it with all the rest of the fans. 

The Little Mermaid (And The Rest Of Disney's Live-Action Remakes) 

Disney’s newest box office hits, the live-action remake of The Little Mermaid, has now arrived on exclusively on Disney Plus. If you didn’t catch the movie in theaters, or let’s be honest, even if you did, you’ll want to give it a watch from the comfort of your own home. That way you won’t embarrass yourself singing along.

But why stop there? Disney has made so many remakes over the years that there are plenty of these movies to watch. Even if you just limit yourself to the ones from the Disney Renaissance era you can enjoy Beauty and the Beast, Mulan, and The Lion King after you watch Ariel. 

Elemental And Other Overlooked Pixar Movies 

During the global pandemic streaming services were a big way that studios got their content out to viewers. Disney tried using a “Premiere Access” model with several movies, where the movie was released in theaters and on Disney Plus, for an added fee, at the same time. In a potentially nice move for families, however, several Pixar movies were released exclusively to the streaming service for no extra charge.

This means that if you didn’t have Disney Plus back then, you likely have never seen the likes of Soul, Luca, or Turning Red. All three of them are solid movies worth your time. The same goes for Lightyear which box office numbers indicate you probably didn’t go see in theaters.  Finally, there’s Pixar’s newest movie Elemental, an absolutely beautiful romance that is hitting service during the three-month promotional period on September 13.

The Imagineering Story 

If you’re a Disney fan then there’s a good chance you’ve been to a Disney theme park at least once. If you’ve been to a Disney theme park, there’s a good chance you’ve said the words “How did they do that?” at least once. The answer, is Walt Disney Imagineering, one of the most unique business units in the world.

The Imagineering Story is a documentary series by Leslie Iwerks, the granddaughter of Mickey Mouse co-creator Ub Iwerks, and it tells the story of the history of Imagineering in a way only Disney can. It’s compelling and exciting, and likely to leave even the most diehard Disney fan with some new details about their favorite parks and attractions.

Bluey 

If you have young kids, then Disney Plus is a fantastic streaming service because the vast majority of the content is safe for kids of all ages. However, if there’s one particular show you need to check out, it’s Bluey. The Australian animated series about a family of dogs has become an absolute monster hit Stateside, and it’s one of those great shows that might be designed for kids, but there is plenty there for the grown-ups as well.

There’s so much there for grown-ups, in fact, that even if you don’t have kids, maybe give Bluey a look anyway. Trust us, there’s a good chance it will make you laugh out loud and capture your heart. Go enjoy the kid’s show. We won’t tell anybody.

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The Wonderful World of Mickey Mouse 

As Walt Disney himself said, “It was all started by a mouse.” Considering that Mickey Mouse is nearly as old as the Walt Disney Company itself, there are literally decades of cartoon shorts, TV shows, documentaries, and more, about the mouse to enjoy, but some of the absolute best Mickey Mouse cartoons have been created fairly recently, and they just came to a close. 

The modern Mickey Mouse shorts began in 2013, before transforming into the Wonderful World of Mickey Mouse, ongoing series of cartoon shorts and specials. There are over 100 of the cartoons that bring Mickey back to his zaniest roots. They are so much fun and will keep you laughing for hours.

Unless you sit and binge-watch everything on this list straight through, all these great shows and movies will probably take you quite some time to complete. And once you do, there’s likely to be something else to catch your eye. It certainly won’t be too hard to get your money’s worth out of paying $1.99 a month for Disney Plus. 

The entertainment industry is mourning the tragic passing of Coco Lee, a renowned singer and songwriter born in Hong Kong, known for originating the character of Mulan in the Manderian release of the Disney movie. The performer was only 48 at the time of her death. According to a statement released by her siblings, she passed over the weekend after attempting to take her own life at home. The renowned singer-songwriter originated one of the best Disney princesses, Mulan, in the Manderian release of the Disney movie, singing a powerful rendition of one of the most iconic princess songs, Reflection. Among those expressing their condolences is fellow Mulan voice artist Ming-Na Wen, who voiced the character for the English version of the 1998 animated classic. 

According to her family, Lee had been battling depression for several years, and her condition had significantly worsened in recent months. In an emotional Instagram post, Ming-Na Wen expressed her shock and grief over Lee's passing. The Book of Boba Fet star shared an image of the late actress and wrote:

Born on January 17, 1975, in Hong Kong, Coco Lee moved to the United States and pursued education in San Francisco, where she attended middle and high school. Her achievements led her to be crowned Miss Teen Chinatown in 1991. Initially, the Pop-star had plans to study biology and pursue a career in medicine, enrolling at the University of California, Irvine.

A talented pop singer garnering success in Asia, she gained recognition among American audiences for her rendition of the song "A Love Before Time" in the 2000 Oscar-nominated foreign film Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. This powerful track received an awards nomination for Best New Original Song, and she had the honor of performing it at the prestigious Academy Awards ceremony in March 2001, captivating millions of viewers.

Her journey as a recording artist began unexpectedly when she participated in a singing competition hosted by TVB, a Hong Kong television broadcaster, in 1993. A recent high school graduate at the time, Lee took a chance and entered the competition on a whim. Little did she know that this leap of faith would lead her to a path of stardom and success.

In 1999, Coco Lee released her first English-language album, "Just No Other Way." The album showcased her versatility with a mix of pop and R&B songs. One of the tracks, "Before I Fall In Love," even made it onto the soundtrack of one of Julia Roberts best rom-coms, Runaway Bride, further solidifying her presence in the international music scene.

According to her sisters, this year marked the 30th anniversary of the Forever Young actress' illustrious singing career. They emphasized her tireless efforts in expanding opportunities for Chinese singers in the global music landscape, praising her exceptional live performances. Alongside her sisters, she is survived by her husband, Bruce Rockowitz, and two stepdaughters. While a complete list of survivors is not readily available, her loved ones mourn her loss.

Coco Lee's final single, titled "Tragic," was released in February. In a social media post towards the end of 2022, she openly acknowledged her challenges throughout the year. Despite the difficulties, she encouraged her followers to embrace positivity and to serve as influential figures who inspire others.

We at CinemaBlend want to join Ming-Na Wen in extending our heartfelt condolences to the friends and family of Coco Lee. Our thoughts and sympathies go out to all those who were deeply touched by her remarkable talent.

For fans who wish to celebrate Lee’s life and work, both the animated and live-action Mulan, which she performed music for, are available streaming for anyone with a Disney+ subscription.

If you are having thoughts of suicide, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or go to SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources.

Disney’s trend of transforming its animated classic films into live-action, or live-action-looking, projects has proven to be a massive success overall. While not every film is a hit, many of them have been absolute blockbusters, bringing in billions of dollars at the box office. Having said that, it seems like while many people may appreciate them for what they are, there also seems to be a pretty pervasive feeling that these movies don’t necessarily need to exist. 

While the live-action version of these films might not be the ones that anybody goes to first when given the choice, that doesn’t mean that none of them have anything at all to offer. When looking at the recent batch of remakes that started with Alice in Wonderland and brings us right up to the new version of The Little Mermaid, here’s a look at the things that work best in each of Disney's live-action remakes.

Alice In Wonderland: It Is The Most Tim Burton Movie Ever

If you somehow have never seen Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland, then really all you need to know is that Tim Burton made an Alice in Wonderland movie. Whatever image that conjures in your mind, I promise you the actual movie is a good 60% stranger than that. It's absolutely bonkers, but it's more a Tim Burton movie than it is a Disney movie, and that's a great thing. It's a film that has the freedom to be whatever the hell it wants to be. 

Maleficent: Angelina Jolie’s Heartbreaking Mutilation

Maleficient figured out early on that one of the best ways to do these movies was to take what fans know, but put a different spin on it. Maleficient makes the villain in the original story a sympathetic victim in this one, and what a victim she is. Angelina Jolie's character is drugged and then mutilated, and the movie doesn’t even try to avoid the obvious implications. Jolie’s scene where she realizes what has happened to her is as harrowing as anything we’ve ever seen from Disney.

Cinderella: Cate Blancett Is Perfect

Cinderella is possibly the absolute best of the live-action Disney remakes, as it nearly perfectly blends the classic with the new. It’s not a direct translation of the original, but all the key elements are there. But of all the things it does right, the thing it may do best is bring a Disney Villain to life in a way we’ve never seen before. Cate Blanchett is deliciously evil as the Wicked Stepmother. It’s a performance not to be missed. 

The Jungle Book: Idris Elba's Sher Khan Is Scarier Than The Original

What Cate Blanchett brought to a live performance, Idris Elba brought to the voice performance of Shere Khan in The Jungle Book. I’m not sure there’s a lot in any of the live-action remakes that I would actually say is better than the comparable part of the original films, but Elba’s performance brings a menace to the villain that it just doesn’t have in the animated version.

Beauty and the Beast: Belle And Her Father

The Beauty and the Beast remake makes various small changes to the story that seem primarily focused on dealing with perceived "problems" with the original film. They are largely pointless changes that don't actually improve the movie. However, if there is a change that does, it's the (slightly) stronger focus on Belle's relationship with her father. It includes the song "How Does A Moment Last Forever," the best of the new songs, and gives an endearing performance from Kevin Kline.

Christopher Robin: A Remake Made For The Adults That Grew Up On The Original

For the most part, the Disney live-action remakes have been about recreating a classic movie in a way that will work for all generations. Christopher Robin, on the other hand, may be the most “adult” of them all because it’s a story that really isn’t meant for kids who love Winnie the Pooh. It’s meant for the grown-ups who used to, and. it's a movie about remembering childhood, not experiencing it.

Dumbo: The Villain Is An Evil Walt Disney

Dumbo is actually more a sequel than a remake of the Disney animated classic, and it’s when the film dispenses with the events of the original that it actually gets good. But nothing quite prepares you for the fact that the movie’s villain, V.A. Vandevere, as played by Michael Keaton, is the successful creator of a new type of entertainment complex: a theme park. He’s basically, “What if Walt Disney, but evil.” It’s incredible that this movie was allowed to go there, and it should be appreciated.

Aladdin: The Jams Scene Is Comic Gold

Aladdin, like so many other Renaissance Disney remakes, is a pretty faithful adaptation of the animated original, but there is one entirely new scene, where Prince Ali and the Genie present themselves to the Sultan which does not appear in the earlier movie. It’s an absolutely hilarious scene where Aladdin makes a fool of himself and the Genie can’t bear to watch. It’s a scene that would not have fit in the original movie since the humor is an entirely different tone, playing to Will Smith's strengths instead of those of Robin Williams. Honestly, the remake could have used more of that.

The Lion King: The Circle Of Life Is Breathtaking 

The “Circle of Life” from the original animated version of The Lion King is one of the great movie openings of all time. It's an epic song showing off equally epic animation from the company that does it better than anybody. The Lion King remake, which isn't "live-action," showcased digital effects at an incredible level of quality. Put the two things together and you have something truly special. It’s an absolute showcase of the technology in the best way. One look at this and it's not shocking that The Lion King remake won an Oscar.

Lady and the Tramp: Janelle Monae and “He’s A Tramp”

When remaking any Disney classic, there are going to be hurdles. Additionally, there things that were done so well the first time around that when doing them again, it’s going to be difficult not to come up short. For Lady and the Tramp, that thing is the song “He’s a Tramp” sung by the iconic Peggy Lee in the animated classic. How do you even try to clear that bar? You get Janelle Monae. She takes on the task and she makes it look easy.

Mulan: Solid Action Filmmaking  

Mulan is one of the few of the Renaissance era Disney movies to not go full musical with its remake, but what it lacks in songs it makes up for in action.  While Disney’s animated movies have upped their action with recent films like Raya and the Last Dragon, this was the first Disney Princess that we really got to enjoy kicking some butt. 

Cruella: Punk Rock Disney

Cruella is an interesting twist on the live-action remake not only in that it's an origin story prequel, but also in the way that prequel was set up. A true prequel to 101 Dalmatians would be set in the UK in the 1950s, but this one goes full 1970 English punk, and it's the perfect pace or Cruella to thrive, giving the movie an energy many of these remakes lack. It's not a prequel to the animated film, but rather the launch of its own franchise, and that's ok. Cruella 2 is a sequel that many may actually get excited to see. 

Pinocchio: Pleasure Island Is Surprisingly Dark

If there's one thing that could be said about classic Disney animated films, it's that they could get really scary. The original Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs famously terrified children, but it's hard to imagine most of these remakes doing the same. The original Pinocchio's Pleasure Island sequence had children transforming into donkeys and I'm guessing more than a few kids had trouble with that back in the day. The remake doesn't lighten the sequence at all, making for one of the scarier parts of any of the modern remakes.

Peter Pan & Wendy: Jude Law’s Hook Is A Villain With Depth

Peter Pan and Wendy played with some interesting ideas that were not present in the animated classic, and most of them aren’t really taken anyplace interesting. The one character who is given surprising depth is Captain Hook. Jude Law’s performance in the film is the one to watch. Hook isn’t the simple caricature that he was in the animated movie, which gives his never-ending battle with Peter Pan a lot more weight.

The Little Mermaid: Halle Bailey’s Voice

The newest live-action remake, The Little Mermaid, certainly brings the animated film to life. All the songs and key plot beats are there. It’s a fun movie, but the thing that stands out among all is “Part of Your World.” The movie’s classic "I want"
song is performed with incredible power by star Halle Bailey. It’s clear why she was the one cast when you hear her sing this song above all others. It’s even better than the original.

We certainly haven't seen the end of the live-action Disney remakes. A new version of Snow White is among the upcoming Disney movies we'll be seeing in the next few years, and films based on everything from Hercules to The Aristocats are also planned. Maybe one of these will be a truly great film, but even if they are not, they will certainly have something worthwhile to offer. 

Ah Disney. Something that has held my heart for years, ever since I was a young one. From their delectable Disney rides, to their movies and everything else, I have always loved Disney, and one thing I most certainly love are the Disney princesses – specifically, their songs.

While many girls such as myself grow up loving the Disney princesses as a whole, I was also one of the many who grew up singing their songs at the top of my lungs for all to hear. And now, several years later, I feel inclined to make a list and rank my favorite those tunes. If you want to know about the best Disney princess songs, this is my ranking from worst to best.

Also, just a quick thing – I know we all want songs from Hercules or even The Hunchback of Notre Dame, but unfortunately, Meg and Esmerelda are not considered Disney princesses, so I can’t put those in. However, I will suggest you go and listen to “I Won’t Say I’m In Love” and “God Help The Outcasts.” Absolute bangers. 

Honorable Mention: Let It Go (Frozen)

Okay, Elsa isn’t a princess when she sings “Let It Go,” I know. But, it would be a sin to not at least mention this song because of how freaking popular it was. I mean, only 2021's “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” surpassed it, but no other Disney song has come close to the mayhem of this banger. 

It still slaps to this day and no matter how many more Frozen sequels come out, nothing is going to beat Elsa singing “Let It Go.” It’s just that good. 

12. Someday My Prince Will Come – Snow White And The Seven Dwarves

Okay, let’s get into the actual list. “Someday My Prince Will Come” from Snow White and the Seven Dwarves is boring as heck.

Granted, it’s a product of its time, I know that and acknowledge it. But in comparison to the great Disney princess songs that have been released, it’s last. Here’s hoping that Rachel Zegler’s version will be better in the live-action movie. 

11. Once Upon A Dream – Sleeping Beauty

“Once Upon a Dream” from Sleeping Beauty isn’t that much better than the previous entry on this list, but I have to put it a spot above, because I feel at least a little more connection to Aurora. The poor girl has lived in the woods her whole life and really knows nothing else beyond that, and she dreams of meeting someone.

You can also argue that the song doesn't even talk about meeting the love of her life, but just someone she cares about and wants love from. Also, Aurora’s voice could rock me to sleep. 

10. When Will My Life Begin? – Tangled

Ugh, I hate to put Tangled's “When Will My Life Begin?” so low, because I used to sing it all the time. But, there’s no substance to it. It’s really just Rapunzel talking to herself about how much she wants to leave the tower and start her life after doing the same mundane tasks over and over again. 

I mean, I feel the same, girl. But it’s just not worthy of being toward the top. I do love Tangled though – will forever be a Flynn Ryder girl. 

9. Speechless – Aladdin

“A Whole New World” is not a Disney princess song, it is a love song, and I stand by that. However, “Speechless” from the live-action Aladdin is a Disney princess song that is sung by Jasmine – and I kind of rock with it.

Naomi Scott has a brilliant voice, and the song itself is powerful, talking about how she refuses to go down without a fight even though the rest of the world wants her to be quiet. She really brings out the spunk of Jasmine that we saw in the animated film. I only wish that it wasn’t all in her head in the movie – we had musical moments in the film itself, why did this song have to be in her head?

8. A Dream Is A Wish Your Heart Makes – Cinderella

Say what you want about Cinderella, but this song still makes me feel at home when I listen to it. “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes” is something I actually believe, and when I feel down on myself, I’ve genuinely listened to this to make myself feel better. 

Compared to other Disney songs down the line, it’s not the best, but the lyrics still hit. “No matter how your heart is grieving, if you keep on believing, the dream that you wish will come true.” Like, those are powerful words of perseverance for a kid’s song; to keep believing no matter what. 

7. Belle – Beauty And The Beast

Technically Belle isn’t a princess yet when she sings “Belle” in Beauty and the Beast, and she’s not the only person singing, but her voice stands out the most – as she doesn’t have a solo in the film. However, I do love it so much even now. 

It’s literally just Belle talking about how she feels unseen and left out amongst everyone else – literally just because she reads and is slightly more educated, but you can sense her wanting to find something better out there. “There must be more than this provincial life” indeed.

6. For The First Time In Forever – Frozen

Frozen had an incredible soundtrack, and one of the first songs featured was “For The First Time in Forever” where both Anna and (technically) Elsa are princesses. It was before she was crowned, even if Disney sees them as queens of Arendelle now. What I love about this song more than some of the others is the dichotomy between the two sisters. 

We sees how excited Anna is to finally open up the gates, giddy and literally jumping off the walls and tripping over herself, to Elsa’s fears about letting her powers go. The voices of Kristen Bell and Idina Menzel meld so well and I will forever love listening to them over and over again. It’s a great duet – one I have sung along to many times. 

5. Almost There – The Princess And The Frog

The Princess and the Frog is an underappreciated movie that deserves so much more love, and “Almost There” is a brilliant Disney princess song. Again, Tiana isn’t technically a princess when she sings it, but dang does she belt it out. 

Obviously, Anika Noni Rose was phenomenal, but the very premise of the song is what does it for me – that through hard work, Tiana is going to reach her dream, that she’s getting “closer and closer everyday” and she’s almost there – speaking to little girls everywhere to keep working towards their goals. You just have to love it. 

4. Reflection – Mulan

I always forget that Mulan only has, like, five songs in it before its tone shifts, but “Reflection” is brilliant. Talking about Mulan’s internal conflict, it’s all about her feeling bad and how she feels she has brought dishonor to her family. 

She doesn’t even recognize her own reflection because she puts on a mask to bring happiness to her family, but she can’t even do that, and she wants her reflection to be her again rather than the perfect doll everyone wants her to be. Perfection.

3. Part Of Your World – The Little Mermaid

I mean, it’s The Little Mermaid. One of the best Disney movies ever. It started the Disney renaissance – you knew it would be high up here. 

I’m not the hugest fan of Ariel, just because I don’t agree with her giving up her voice to be with a man she didn’t even know, but “Part Of Your World” is certainly one of the best, because I think anyone can relate to feeling like a literal fish out of water, but with her, she actually feels as if she doesn’t belong and wants to find somewhere else to be – wants to be part of someone else’s world that she finds so much more intriguing and interesting. 

I think anyone can relate to that message, and even if you don’t think Ariel is the best Disney princess, she certainly has one of the best songs. And yes, I can’t wait to hear Halle Bailey sing it, too. 

2. Colors Of The Wind – Pocahontas 

Okay, let’s ignore the fact that Pocahontas is incredibly, historically inaccurate. I know that. We all know that. And the music, if we’re being honest, is mostly forgettable. I think the only other song I remember from it is “Just Around the Riverbend,” and briefly, “Savages.”

But “Colors of the Wind” is something else. And you know it, too. 

It’s the perfect song to accurately describe how the Native Americans of the United States felt as the colonizers came, placing claim to land that they didn’t know. 

Pocahontas urges John Smith to think with all the colors of the wind, to recognize that there are other people who live on this planet that don’t look like him. That the Earth is a beautiful place that deserves to be worshiped and held sacred, not conquered. We can’t keep cutting down trees or killing animals because they are a part of the cycle of nature – the beauty of the world around us. 

I’m pretty sure I became such a stickler for preserving nature because of this movie, and now, I go on walks and runs all the time to enjoy it as much as I can, because there is so much out there to love. Pocahontas says it best – we must paint with all the colors of the wind.

1. How Far I’ll Go – Moana

I literally just did an article about how much I love Moana, but I’ll go into it again – I love Moana. And I adore “How Far I’ll Go.” With a passion so deep I can barely hold it in. 

Not only do I love Lin-Manuel Miranda’s lyrics, the song is fantastic in every way, both in its melodies and its meaning. Think about it – it’s almost like another version of “Part of Your World,” but this time, focused on fulfilling one's deepest desires instead of wanting to be a part of someone else’s world.

All Moana wants to do is sail out on the sea, because she feels as if it’s calling her. She feels as if this is what she is meant to do and while she knows she has responsibilities back home, she can’t stop this urge to go, to see just “how far” she can go, but she knows the moment she leaves, there’s no turning back. 

But in the end, it’s too much – she pushes herself to go to the sea, despite her fears and judgements, because she trusts herself to go on this adventure – even if at first, it doesn’t go as planned. 

Moana technically isn’t a princess in the movie, but Disney considers her one – so she gets the number one spot in my heart and on this list. 

Disney is coming out with another movie this year that seems to feature another female protagonist – Wish, and she might be a princess. So, maybe we’ll get a new song to add to this list. For now, I’m happy with what we have, and hope you are, too. Now, go and watch Frozen again.  

You know the face. Hell, you even know the voice, as you've undoubtedly heard his distinctive cadence and pitch at some time in your life. I'm talking about Lo Pan himself, James Hong, as this is a celebration of the many James Hong movies and TV shows that have been made throughout the years. And "many" is actually an understatement, as Hong has played over 600 television and movie roles in the course of his almost 70-year long career. Damn. 

He started out as an uncredited South Korean Pilot Trainee in 1954’s American war film, Dragonfly Squadron, but found his first major break in the 1957 TV show, The New Adventures of Charlie Chan as “Number One Son” Barry Chan for 36 episodes. Since then, he’s been in several movies, and made multiple appearances on TV shows like Dynasty, The A-Team, and The Adventures of Brisco County Jr., just to name a few.  

Hell, he’s also done voice acting in video games like Diablo III, and Call of Duty: Black Ops II. And, he even directed some movies, including a horror flick called The Vineyard, and even a 1979 sexploitation comedy called Teen Lust. But, this article isn’t about teen lust! It’s about some of Hong’s best roles! Can I get an “indeed!”?  

Big Trouble In Little China (David Lo Pan) 

In one of Kurt Russell’s best movies, a truck driver named Jack Burton (Russell) ends up on an adventure with his friend in order to rescue “a girl with green eyes.” He needs to do this since an eternal spirit desires to marry her so that his curse can be lifted!    

And, James Hong plays the “evil spirit” by the name of Lo Pan. When I wrote my article about Big Trouble in Little China after re-watching the cult classic for about the millionth time, I couldn’t help but appreciate just what a silly (yet spooky!) performance Hong put in. From his wheelchair-bound old man form, to his evil magician form, he OWNS this movie, having some of the very best moments. Trust me, if he wasn’t in this film, it wouldn’t even come close to being the cult classic that it is today. He’s that great in it.   

The Golden Child (Dr. Hong) 

In one of Eddie Murphy’s funniest performances, a private detective (Murphy) is tasked with finding a missing person who just so happens to be “the golden child.” Murphy cracks jokes while Charles Dance makes angry faces. It’s a good time all around.   

And, James Hong plays a sort of straight man to all of this nonsense. What’s crazy is that The Golden Child and Big Trouble in Little China came out in the exact same year of 1986, and yet, you couldn’t get a more different performance from Hong, who plays a sort of guide into this mystical world. From being an evil, mystical character himself in one to being one of the safe harbor characters here, these two movies are proof that he could do it all.  

Wayne’s World 2 (Jeff Wong) 

In one of Mike Myers’ many unforgettable movie roles, he plays the lovable Wayne Campbell in this hit sequel to the 1992 original. Here, Wayne and Garth want to put on a concert, and wackiness ensues.    

One of the wackiest movements, though, has to come from James Hong himself, who plays Jeff Wong, the father to Wayne’s girlfriend, Cassandra, played by the great Filipino actress, Tia Carrere. In this scene, Hong and Myers have an intense (and ridiculous) martial arts fight, with the former hamming it up every second. It doesn’t get much better than this.      

Bloodsport II: The Next Kumite (Master Sun)  

In this lesser, direct-to-video sequel to the Jean-Claude Van Damme masterpiece (yes, masterpiece), a new character (Daniel Bernhardt) gets imprisoned and mistreated, but then learns martial arts from a fellow inmate, played by our boy James Hong. Our hero then enters the next Kumite (hence the title) and uses his teacher’s “Iron Hand” technique to fight his way to the top of the competition. 

Honestly, I probably never would have even watched Bloodsport II, III, and 4 if not for Blockbuster, which is where I saw most of my favorite obscure movies. Hong played—what else?—a martial arts expert in II and III (but not 4), and he was undoubtedly the best part of these two flicks, bringing gravitas to something as silly as grown men kicking and slapping each other. Honestly, I wouldn’t recommend II or III if not for him. He pretty much saves these two movies. And, since he’s not even in 4, I wouldn’t recommend that one at all. I need my James Hong, people!    

Mulan (Chi-Fu) 

Mulan, which is one of the very best movies in the Disney Renaissance era from 1989-1999, is about a young woman who poses as a man so that her ailing father doesn’t have to be conscripted. It’s a sweet film, with some powerful ballads.  

James Hong plays a real scumbag as Chi-Fu, the Emperor of China’s advisor. It’s not one of the biggest roles in the film, but it’s certainly memorable, as he talks down to women, and generally is the most annoying character in the entire movie. But, as soon as you hear that voice, you instantly say, "Huh, that’s James Hong." Because honestly, you just can’t miss it.  

Everything Everywhere All At Once 

A24’s highest grossing film ever, Everything Everywhere All At Once, is about a woman punching, kicking, and finding herself throughout the multiverse. Or, it’s a family drama sci-fi epic. Or, it's a dark comedy about the meaninglessness of life. Truthfully, it could be any of those things, or none of those things. But, whatever it’s actually about, you need to see Everything Everywhere All At Once right now!  

James Hong plays the senile father, Gong Gong, to our heroine, Evelyn Quan Wang (Michelle Yeoh). But, he also plays Alpha Gong Gong, one of the leaders of the Alphaverse. Once again, he plays dramatic and silly with aplomb, even appearing in a zooming wheelchair, which brought back happy Big Trouble in Little China memories to my ‘80s soul.  

Kung Fu Panda (Mr. Ping) 

A panda who loves kung fu (Jack Black) may be the laziest panda in all of China, but that’s until he learns that he can actually do kung fu, just like Neo in The Matrix. It went on for three movies and multiple TV shows.

Guess what? James Hong pretty much always showed up to voice Po’s adoptive father, Mr. Ping. It doesn’t matter if it’s on the big screen, or the small, Po’s adorable goose dad is in love with his noodle shop, and also his son. In that way, he adds warmth (and silliness) whenever it’s necessary. 

Honestly, I could have gone on and on about James Hong, but I thought I’d end it there. For more news on Hong and other great actors, be sure to swing by here often. 

It's hard to determine if Disney is currently going through its second renaissance when it comes to its Disney animated movies. Films from Tangled (which is better than Frozen. I will die on this hill.) all the way through Encanto, have proven that the quality has been consistent and amazing for over a decade now, which is actually longer than the first Disney Renaissance, as it lasted ten years and included bangers like The Little Mermaid, which, would you believe, almost didn’t get made, and The Lion King.

For those of you who have no idea what I'm talking about, the “Disney Renaissance” lasted from 1989-1999 and started with The Little Mermaid, and by all accounts, ended with Tarzan. That said, that would mean that Fantasia 2000 and Dinosaur were not “Disney Renaissance” material, I suppose (Poor, Dinosaur). But, that would also imply that the excellent, The Emperor's New Groove, which came out in 2000, also isn’t a part of the Disney Renaissance, which makes me sad, because The Emperor’s New Groove is amazing.     

Anyway, I’m going off on a tangent now. You want to know what the best animated films in the Disney Renaissance are, and I’m going to tell them to you…in song form! Wait, no? The readers can’t hear my song? But, I dragged the piano out and everything. Oh, okay. Then I guess you’re just going to have to read it in word form. I’ll tell you, though, the song I had planned for you was amazing. You’re just going to have to trust me on this. Now, on with the list!  

10. Pocahontas (1995) 

Pocahontas is the story of the Powhatan woman, Pocahontas, falling in love with the English settler, John Smith. It’s incredibly inaccurate (I have a feeling that Disney didn’t want to get into the icky aspect of Pocahontas being around 10 when she met John Smith), and also deals with racism, but, you know, the songs are pretty good.

So is the animation, but the rest of it just feels really off and incredibly boring at times. It’s also one of the few Disney movies I haven’t shown my daughter yet, mostly because I don’t think it’s very good, but also because of the way it shows racism. I think Zootopia, which is, in my mind, the best recent Disney animated movie, did a much better job of going into that touchy subject.    

9. The Rescuers Down Under (1990) 

A sequel to the 1977 film, The Rescuers, The Rescuers Down Under again features Bernard and Bianca, this time rescuing a boy in Australia, who has been kidnapped by a gun-toting poacher. Fun? 

Well, kind of. The Rescuers Down Under unfortunately feels incredibly forgettable since 1) It’s a sequel to a film that I don’t think many people were asking for back in 1990, and 2) it all feels a bit lopsided. For instance, our heroes, Bernard and Bianca, are often off on the sidelines somewhere while side characters take over the story. So, in the end, it’s fine–and the flying sequences are incredible–but overall, it kind of gets lost in the rest of the Renaissance. Oh, well.  

8. Hercules (1997) 

Tackling mythology this time, Disney’s Hercules is about the demigod who goes from zero to hero, while his uncle, Hades, tries to take him down. 

Our very own Alexandra Ramos believes that Hercules is underrated, and yeah, I can definitely see that. The music is great, the story is fun, and the animation is top notch (especially that hydra fight). And, I like it. I just wish it dug even deeper into the mythology aspect.    

It also, like Pocahontas, decides to tell its own tale, so Hera is a caring mother in this film rather than a vindictive, scorned wife who wants her husband’s bastard progeny dead. Missed opportunity, if you ask me, Disney. Missed opportunity. It’s fun, yes, but it’s sort of missing something, in my opinion.  

7. The Hunchback Of Notre Dame (1996) 

Based on the Victor Hugo novel of the same name, The Hunchback of Notre Dame is dark as hell. Dealing with the disfigured bell-ringer, Quasimodo, who wants to be down with the people instead of up in his tower, he has to prevent his guardian from getting all touchy feely with a beautiful woman named Esmerelda.  

Let’s just be clear: The Hunchback of Notre Dame should not be rated-G. In the very first moments, Quasimodo's mom is chased and dies on the steps of the cathedral, and the evil Frollo wants to drown her baby. At the same time, later in the film, Quasimodo hangs out with some wise-talking gargoyles, and the tone is just incredibly off. The music is probably the best in the entire Disney Renaissance, but the story around it (or at least the tone) could be much sharper. I’m still waiting on that live-action The Hunchback of Notre Dame movie, though. That could be interesting.    

6. Tarzan (1999) 

The last film in the Disney Renaissance, Tarzan is about a man raised by apes who learns he’s actually human. He meets up with a woman named Jane, and they fall in love. Pretty standard stuff. 

But, you know what? It’s much better than it has to be. The Phil Collins soundtrack is exceptional, the animation (Tarzan looks like he’s roller blading on those branches!), and the overall flow of the story is much better than I remembered it being when I saw it as a kid. Don’t sleep on Tarzan if you haven’t seen it in ages. It deserves a re-watch!   

5. The Little Mermaid (1989) 

A mermaid falls in love with a prince on land, makes a deal with a sea witch to have legs, and gives her voice away just to be with him. Not a poor message for children at all! 

Kicking off the Renaissance, The Little Mermaid probably has some of the most memorable music out of all of these films. In fact, when I think of the Disney Renaissance, Sebastian banging on clams is the first image that comes to my mind. It’s a quick-paced film with a good story, but again, that message of a woman giving up everything (even her whole identity) just to be with a good looking dude is really troubling to me. I really hope the live-action remake of The Little Mermaid irons out that message somehow.   

4. Mulan (1998) 

Not wanting her aged father to be conscripted, Mulan dresses up as a man, and fights in the war in his stead. She also finds romance in the process with a man who wants to make a man out of her. How lovely.

Mulan may not have even been a real person, so I’m not going to touch on the accuracy of this one, but thankfully, I don’t have to, because the story, music, and visuals are all top notch. You’re never bored watching Mulan like you are with Pocahontas, and you feel tension at Mulan’s identity possibly being found out through most of the film. I could have done without her dragon companion, Mushu (Sorry! But I definitely don’t consider it one of Eddie Murphy’s funniest characters), but the rest is great.    

3. Aladdin (1992) 

A street urchin finds a magic lamp, wishes to become a prince, and literally sweeps a girl off of her feet for a magic carpet ride. What more could you possibly want?

After Beauty and the Beast a year earlier, which I considered a “girl movie” at the time, I was happy to have a male lead and a lot more action. And, what great action it is! Some of the most enthralling moments in the entire Renaissance are in this film. Robin Williams as the genie is also one of the best characters in this ten year period. Add the phenomenal music, and you have one of the best animated movies in this era, by far.  

2. Beauty And The Beast (1991) 

A beautiful bookworm falls in love with a beast (who basically kidnaps her), and breaks the spell that fell upon said beast due to his cruelty and arrogance. 

The first animated film to ever be nominated for Best Picture, Beauty and the Beast is a visual spectacle that still looks beautiful today. The story also feels “as old as time,” which makes it feel timeless in that way. Adult me can appreciate all the time and effort that went into this Disney masterpiece that would stand at the top of the heap if not for one other movie.  

1. The Lion King (1994) 

A young lion prince has to take his mantle as king years after he abandoned his position as a child. Yep, that’s pretty much the movie in a nutshell.

I mean, come on now. What can beat The Lion King? The story is the best (it’s basically Hamlet), the animation is godly, and the music is unmatched. I STILL say Hakuna Matata to this day. This movie IS my childhood.

What’s your favorite movie in the Disney Renaissance? For more news on everything Disney, make sure to swing around here often. 

While Disney released a live-action remake of Mulan just a few years back, for a lot of folks, nothing beats the 1998 animated original. The penultimate movie in the Disney Renaissance (Tarzan concluded that era in 1999), Mulan starred future Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. actress Ming-Na Wen as the title character, a young woman in the Han dynasty who pretends to be a man to take her elderly father’s place in the army. Mulan also featured Jurassic Park’s BD Wong as Captain Li Shang, but evidently a decent amount of people were unaware of this specific casting, as evidenced by some delightful comments.

To celebrate Mulan’s 22nd anniversary, the Disney Facebook page shared two side-by-side photos of Ming-Na Wen and BD Wong recording lines for the animated movie. There were all sorts of comments on the post, from people showering Wen with compliments to sharing their favorite Mulan songs, as well as a handful of people who were surprised Wong was part of Mulan’s cast. This fan summarized that sentiment pretty well:

Yes, folks, BD Wong did indeed supply all of Shang’s regularly-spoken dialogue, while Donny Osmond was tapped as the character’s singing voice. At the time, Wong was arguably best known for playing Dr. Henry Wu in Jurassic Park, which co-starred Sam Neill, Jeff Goldblum, Laura Dorn and Richard Attenborough, among others. This next fan was pleased to learn that one of their top Jurassic Park franchise performers also took part in Mulan:

Disney’s take on Mulan saw Fa Mulan training with the other recruits under Shang’s command, and while initially Shang felt betrayed when he learned about Mulan’s deception, they ultimately put aside their differences to save defeat Shan Yu and save the Emperor. By the end of the movie, Shang visits Mulan and her family at their home, having become enamored with her. Another Disney fan is now pleased that she can associate Shang with Henry Wu:

Speaking of Henry Wu, while he was only a minor character in the first Jurassic Park movie, BD Wong later reprised the role for all three Jurassic World movies, where the character appeared as a key supporting antagonist. So while Shang stands out as one of Disney’s more notable male protagonists, this fan pointed out how Wong’s character in the Jurassic Park franchise went on to cause more problems. 

However, some people might not know BD Wong best on the live-action front from the Jurassic Park/World movies, but from his time as Dr. George Huang in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. After initially recurring in Seasons 2 and 3 of the NBC series, he was upgraded to a main cast member from Seasons 4-12, and then made guest appearances between Seasons 13-17. As this person put it:

Ming-Na Wen and BD Wong later reprised their respective roles for Mulan II, which was released direct-to-video in the United States in early 2005. Wong’s other notable credits include playing Father Ray Mukada in Oz, Brent Rosen in Madam Secretary, Whiterose/Minister Zhi Zhang in Mr. Robot and Professor Hugo Strange in Gotham. Wong can currently be seen for his fourth outing as Henry Wu in Jurassic World Dominion, and he’ll be heard later in the near future as the voice of Hon Wing in Gremlins: Secrets of the Mogwai, which will both air on Cartoon Network and stream for HBO Max subscribers.

Keep visiting CinemaBlend for all sorts of Disney-related news, and take a look through our 2022 release schedule to see what movies the Mouse House has coming up for the rest of the year.

You know, when I married a Filipina, I didn’t just marry her. I married into her entire family. And while I can’t really marry into her culture, I have certainly adopted a great deal of it, not only for myself, but also for my two children, as I want them to embrace being both Black and Filipino. In that way, I’ve become very familiar with Filipino food, Filipino traditions, and of course, Filipino actors. 

Because you know what’s interesting? There are quite a few actors that you know and love who have Filipino roots. I would be remiss if I was talking about Filipinos and didn’t mention Jo Koy and his great comedy specials, because if you’re Filipino, then you’re likely familiar with Jo Koy. But, with him now mentioned, here are seven great Filipino actors, and where to watch them.  

Dave Bautista - Guardians of the Galaxy 

I've always believed that every great wrestler could make for a great actor, since they're pretty much maintaining a role and storyline every single week. Dwayne Johnson's best recognized for his movies now, but for a time, wrestling fans were on the edge of their seats for him every week when he portrayed The Rock. And, the same could be said for Dave Bautista, who simply went by Batista when he was still wrestling in the WWE. Bautista is the son of a Greek mother, and a Filipino father, making him biracial.   

As an actor, Bautisa has been in a lot of noteworthy films lately, such as his brief (but potent) role in Dune, which he considered “a blessing," the lead role in Army of the Dead, and many others. But he’s definitely best known as Drax the Destroyer, in the Guardians of the Galaxy series. The third film will be the last time we see Bautista play Drax, but you can still check him out in Volumes 1 and 2, if you ever start to miss him.     

Watch Guardians of the Galaxy on Disney+.   

Lea Salonga - Mulan 

Any theater-junkie can tell you that Lea Salonga can act and sing her heart out. In fact, the quintessential version of Kim from Miss Saigon, belongs to Miss Salonga, who portrayed her in both the original West End production, as well as the eventual Broadway version, making her the first Asian actress to ever win a Tony Award. She was also the first Asian actress to portray the roles of Eponine and Fantine for Les Miserables, so her theater cred is well established.  

That said, most Disney fans will likely know her pipes from the singing voices of both the original Princess Jasmine as well as Fa Mulan from the animated versions of Aladdin and Mulan, respectively. Honestly, when I think of my favorite Disney songs, I usually hear them in Lea Salonga’s voice, and I know that I’m not alone. 

Watch Mulan on Disney+. 

Dante Basco - Avatar: The Last Airbender 

I, like many people of a certain age, was introduced to Dante Basco from the Steven Spielberg movie, Hook (though, his first movie role was actually as Romeo in Michael Jackson’s Moonwalker, which is a movie that scarred me as a child). In Hook, though, he played the leader of the Lost Boys, Rufio, and (spoiler alert!) what happened to him in that movie also scarred me as a child.   

But, I think he’s probably most known now as the voice of Zuko from Avatar: The Last Airbender. Some of the best episodes of Avatar feature Zuko, and they wouldn’t be nearly as good if Basco didn’t infuse his voice with such a full range of emotions. In every way, Dante Basco brought the heart and soul to Avatar: The Last Airbender, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.  

Watch Avatar: The Last Airbender on Netflix.     

Vanessa Hudgens - Tick, Tick…BOOM! 

Like Lea Salonga, Vanessa Hudgens is a singer who can also act. Her late father was of Irish, French, and Native American descent, and her mother is a Filipina, making her biracial, much like Bautista. (And my own children!) Hudgens rose to fame with High School Musical as Gabriella Montez, but has also been in a number of other popular films like Journey 2: The Mysterious Island, Spring Breakers, and was even in the DC sitcom, Powerless, so she’s got massive range.    

But, I wanted to focus on Vanessa Hudgens in tick, tick...BOOM!, as she did a marvelous job as the friend of Jonathan Larson (played by Andrew Garfield) and also a performer in his plays. Through her acting and singing, she proved yet again what a powerhouse force she can be.  

Watch tick, tick…BOOM! On Netflix. 

Lou Diamond Phillips - Longmire 

Lou Diamond Phillips was born in the Philippines to a Filipina mother and an American father of Scotch-Irish Cherokee descent. He’s been around since the early '80s, but rose to superstardom when he played Ritchie Valens in La Bamba back in 1987. One year later, he played the troubled youth, Angel Guzman, in the classic school movie, Stand and Deliver. And he’s been acting pretty much nonstop ever since.   

I wanted to focus, though, on his work in the long-running show, Longmire. Phillips plays the sagacious Cheyenne, Henry Standing Bear, who runs a bar and is Longmire’s best friend. Phillips plays him with the kind of confidence that only an actor of several decades could acquire, making him feel both ancient and fresh as a character at the same time.  

Watch Longmire on Netflix. 

Tia Carrere - Lilo & Stitch

Tia Carrere was born in Hawaii, but her lineage is Filipino. I’ll always loved her for her work in the two Wayne’s World movies as Cassandra Wong, but she’s had a long career in both movies and television, with some of her credits including the soap opera General Hospital, the comedy High School High, and the James Cameron action movie, True Lies, with Arnold Schwarzenegger.  

That said, like Lea Salonga and Dante Basco, a lot of people, especially young people, might know Carrere best from her voice, as she voiced Lilo’s older sister, Nani, in the Disney movie, Lilo & Stitch. Tia Carrere plays Nani perfectly as a super stressed, older sister who is just trying to keep the little family they have together. Plus, it’s set in Hawaii, which plays into Carrere’s birth place. Just always remember, “Ohana means family.” 

Watch Lilo & Stitch on Disney+. 

Jacob Batalon - Let It Snow 

And lastly, I wanted to highlight Jacob Batalon, who, when I asked my wife for potential actors to talk about for this article, she said, “Little Spider-Man.” When I pressed her on who she meant, she said, “You know, Little Spider-Man. His friend.” That’s when I realized she meant Ned Leeds from the recent Spider-Man trilogy, and yes, Jacob Batalon is Filipino, and he plays Ned Leeds in the Spider-Man movies. 

But, everybody knows that. So, I instead chose to focus on his role as Keon in the Netflix romantic comedy, Let It Snow, which is based on a YA novel. In it, Batalon plays a loveable employee named Keon at a diner called Waffle Town. It’s an ensemble cast, and it all leads to a big party that he throws, which brings all the characters together. It’s a fun little holiday film, and Jacob Batalon is a highlight. 

Watch Let It Snow on Netflix. 

Those are just seven Filipino actors in movies and television. For more news on other Filipino actors and actresses, make sure to swing by here often. 

It might be safe to say the Ming-Na Wen has never been more badass than as Fennec Shand in Disney+’s line-up of Star Wars TV show spin-offs. However, that being said, it should not go unnoticed that the Book of Boba Fett cast member has already been playing badass characters on the big screen and the small screen in either live-action or animated settings for much of her career. 

If you are in need of refresher on this topic, perhaps we should take a look at some of the best Ming-Na Wen movies and TV shows now available on streaming and/or as a digital rental or purchase. We will start with a show that you may have likely already seen if you call yourself a fan of the Chinese-born actress’ performance as Fennec Shand.

The Mandalorian (Disney+)

A masked, interplanetary bounty hunter (Pedro Pascal) has a change of heart when he discovers his latest retrieval assignment is a child of rare breed and forgotten power, for whom he becomes a surrogate father and protector.

Why it’s worth checking out if you like Ming-Na Wen: Ming-Na Wen made her first appearance as Fennec Shand on the fifth episode of The Mandalorian as an enemy of the titular hero before returning in Season 2 as his ally and a companion of Temuera Morrison as Boba Fett.

Stream The Mandalorian on Disney+.

Star Wars: The Bad Batch (Disney+)

A group of highly-skilled, genetically engineered clones (all voiced by Dee Bradley Baker) band together on a trek through the galaxy in search of a reason why they were the only ones of their kind on the side of the Jedi in the aftermath of the Clone Wars.

Why it’s worth checking out if you like Ming-Na Wen: Following her revival on The Mandalorian Season 2 and before reprising the character again on The Book of Boba Fett, Ming-Na Wen returned as Fennec Shand in the form of a voice role on Disney+'s Star Wars: The Bad Batch for two episodes of the action-packed, animated series. 

Stream Star Wars: The Bad Batch on Disney+.

Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D. (Netflix)

The mysteriously resurrected Phil Coulson (Clark Gregg) - a top-ranking agent of the Strategic Homeland Intervention, Enforcement and Logistics Division - puts together an elite team of covert operatives to help keep tabs on the safety of the earth in the aftermath of the game-changing events in New York City in 2012.

Why it’s worth checking out if you like Ming-Na Wen: Before becoming a part of the Star Wars Universe, Ming-Na Wen was already a member of the Disney Family, as seen by her role on Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. - one of the most beloved Marvel TV shows despite barely counting as canon anymore - as experienced, multi-talented S.H.I.E.L.D. operative Melinda May for all 136 episodes of the ABC original series.

Stream Agents Of Shield on Netflix.
Buy Agents Of Shield on Amazon.

Mulan (Disney+)

When her elderly father is summoned to defend China from an emerging threat, a young maiden (Ming-Na Wen) disguises herself as the opposite sex in order to take his place and leads the army to victory with help from a plucky, bumbling dragon (Eddie Murphy) sent by her ancient ancestors.

Why it’s worth checking out if you like Ming-Na Wen: In her first instance of being a part of the Disney Family, Ming-Na Wen lent her voice to the title role of 1998’s Mulan - a thrilling, beloved, Oscar-nominated animated epic based on a real Chinese legend with a strong commentary on gender equality that was later adapted into a live-action film in 2020, which Wen would also make a special cameo appearance for.

Stream Mulan on Disney+.
Rent/Buy Mulan on Amazon.

Ralph Breaks The Internet (Disney+)

A reformed video game villain (Academy Award nominee John C. Reilly) and his sharp-tongued, young friend (Sarah Silverman) use a recently installed Wi-Fi router to escape the arcade they live inside and venture into the World Wide Web.

Why it’s worth checking out if you like Ming-Na Wen: Just two years before appearing in 2020’s Mulan remake, Ming-Na Wen reprised the character herself when she lent her voice to the hit animated sequel Ralph Breaks the Internet, which hilariously depicts a crossover of just about every animated Disney princess on record amid a dizzying display of other references to the company's extensive IP.

Stream Ralph Breaks The Internet on Disney+.
Rent/Buy Ralph Breaks The Internet on Amazon.

Todd McFarlane’s Spawn (HBO Max)

A government assassin (Keith David) is murdered by his boss and sent to Hell where he is resurrected as the reluctant leader of Satan’s army, only to use his new abilities as a protector of innocence and punisher of corruption on Earth, which ignites a war for his soul between the opposing ends of the afterlife.

Why it’s worth checking out if you like Ming-Na Wen: Playing the lead of Mulan would actually launch a very impressive career for Ming-Na Wen as a voice actor and one of her most notable roles following the hit Disney movie was a recurring stint as the angelic Jade on Spawn - the Emmy-winning, HBO original animated adaptation of Todd McFarlane’s celebrated horror comic book series which aired from 1997 to 1999.

Stream Spawn on HBO Max.
Buy Spawn on Amazon.

The Batman (HBO Max)

After returning to the crime-ridden metropolis he grew up in after spending years training abroad, young billionaire Bruce Wayne (Rino Romano) assumes a dark, symbolic identity to protect his city, indirectly attracting the attention of new bizarre and threatening personalities.

Why it’s worth checking out if you like Ming-Na Wen: Jade on Todd McFarlane’s Spawn would not be the last voice acting role in an animated superhero TV show for Ming-Na Wen, who also had a recurring stint as Gotham City detective Ellen Yin on The Batman - a unique and surprisingly sophisticated reimagining of the Dark Knight’s early years fighting crime that began airing on The CW (then The WB) around the same time Batman Begins was released.

Stream The Batman on HBO Max.
Buy The Batman on Amazon.

Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within (HBO Max)

After becoming infected with particles originating from an extra-terrestrial threat, a brilliant young scientist (Ming-Na) joins forces with her old flame (Alec Baldwin) and his military crew in hopes to save the Earth and herself from the strange, phantom-like enemy in 2056.

Why it’s worth checking out if you like Ming-Na Wen: One of the more notable animated movies of Ming-Na Wen’s voice acting career following the success of Mulan was 2001’s Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within - an adaptation of the successful series of video games in which the actress plays the ambitious central hero.

Stream Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within on HBO Max.
Rent/Buy Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within on Amazon.

Street Fighter (Amazon Rental)

A hardened colonel (Jean-Claude Van Damme) leads an army of soldiers into the country of Shadaloo where they take on the eccentric dictator General M. Bison (Raul Julia), who has captured many people and transformed some of them into grotesque mutant creatures.

Why it’s worth checking out if you like Ming-Na Wen: Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within was not the first video game movie starring Ming-Na Wen, who also played vengeful reporter Chun-Li in 1994’s Street Fighter - writer and director Steven E. de Souza’s endearingly cheesy, engrossingly surreal feature-length adaptation of the arcade classic.

Rent/Buy Street Fighter on Amazon.

ER (Hulu)

The personal and social lives of the emergency room staff at the County General Hospital in Chicago, Illinois, tend to frequently intersect with the already intense, life-or-death pressure they face in their professional lives on a daily basis.

Why it’s worth checking out if you like Ming-Na Wen: After starring in Street Fighter, Ming-Na joined the ER cast as Dr. Jing-Mei Debra "Deb" Chen during its premiere season in 1995 and stayed on as a series regular for creator Michael Crichton’s long-running, NBC original medical drama until 2004.

Stream ER on Hulu.
Buy ER on Amazon.

The Joy Luck Club (IMDb TV)

The lives of four American-born young women intersect as they each struggle to figure out how to navigate their difficult relationships with their native Chinese-born mothers while living in San Francisco.

Why it’s worth checking out if you like Ming-Na Wen: Before joining ER, Ming-Na Wen had actually previously broken out as a TV star on the soap opera As the World Turns in the late 1980s, but her breakout role in a feature film came in 1993 when she played June in The Joy Luck Club - the critically acclaimed, award-winning adaptation of Amy Tan’s highly influential novel.

Stream The Joy Luck Club on IMDb TV.
Rent/Buy The Joy Luck Club on Amazon.

One notable title I wanted to mention but could not include on our list due to its lack of availability on streaming or even for digital purchase is the Emmy-nominated Stargate Universe, on which Ming-Na Wen played Camille Wray for its entire two-season run on SyFy. Fans should also keep a lookout for when the actress reunites with her Mulan co-stars B.D. Wong and James Hong for Gremlins: Secrets of the Mogwai - an animated series taking place before the events of the classic horror-comedy movies that will be available for streaming exclusively on HBO Max.

Encanto is one of the latest Disney movies to quickly become a fan favorite among families and animated Disney movie fans. Encanto tells the story of 15-year-old Mirabel Madrigal (Stephanie Beatriz) and her family. Mirabel is the only member of her family that doesn’t have a special power, and that may make her just what they need to save the day. The film has become a major hit, especially since it premiered on Disney+. 

If you’re like many Encanto fans, you’ve already watched this Disney movie 400 times, and now you may want some suggestions of other Disney movies, animated flicks, and live action films that share characteristics with Encanto. It is a unique family saga with excellent music, so let’s explore some other family friendly films like Encanto.

Raya And The Last Dragon (2021)

Raya and the Last Dragon is a Disney movie that follows Raya (Kelly Marie Tran) as she seeks a dragon named Sisu (Awkwafina) and pieces of a magic pendant, to restore order and save everyone from turning into stone. Encanto and Raya and the Last Dragon share many similarities. Both stories explore what happens when a young girl may be the key to her family’s survival. Raya and the Last Dragon and Encanto both have magical elements and showcase cultures not typically shown in animation here.

Raya and the Last Dragon may not be everyone’s favorite Disney movie but its heroine has just as much heart as Mirabel, and that’s what makes them both compelling to watch. 

Stream Raya and the Last Dragon on Disney+.
Rent/buy Raya and the Last Dragon on Amazon.

Moana (2016)

The ocean picks Moana (Auli’i Cravalho) to find Maui (Dwayne Johnson) to restore the heart of Te Fiti. Maui and Moana set off on an adventure that brings them into contact with many obstacles and sea creatures. Moana and Encanto have similar tones, animation styles, and both feature music by Lin-Manuel Miranda.

Moana and Encanto are also non-Princess origin stories about young girls who prove to their family that they can become the heroes through will, determination, and belief in themselves and their abilities. To me, Moana and Mirabel would be the best of friends if they existed in the same universe. 

Stream Moana on Disney+.
Rent/buy Moana on Amazon.

Mulan (1998)

Mulan is an animated film from one of the peak times of animated Disney movies. It's based on the Chinese legend of Hua Mulan, and sees Mulan (Ming-Na Wen) join the Imperial Chinese Army to protect her father and family. This is one of the best movies on Disney+ because it’s a classic that kind of created the foundation for other Disney movies about unconventional, brave, and smart Disney heroines.

Characters like Mirabel are kindred successors to characters like Mulan. These young women love and respect their family so much that they’re willing to make major sacrifices in order to keep them safe. They also show Disney heroines can be feminine without necessarily having to be extremely girly, but these characters also don't criticize or degrade other very girly characters. They just know that they’re not that type of girl.

Stream Mulan on Disney+.
Rent/buy Mulan on Amazon.

Coco (2017)

Coco follows 12-year old Miguel (Anthony Gonzalez). After he seeks out the mausoleum of someone he believes is his great great grandfather, he ends up in the Land of the Dead. He then searches for his relative while exploring his musical passion. Coco’s cast also includes Gael Garcia Bernal, Benjamin Bratt, and Alanna Ubach.

Coco is one of Disney and Pixar’s best films because it’s generally a good story and highlights Mexican culture, which often isn’t shown in Disney animated flicks. Coco and Encanto share a similar spirit and focus on two different hispanic cultures. They also both have an emphasis on culture, traditions, family, and heritage.

Stream Coco on Disney+.
Rent/buy Coco on Amazon.

Wolfwalkers (2020)

Wolfwalkers is an animated film about a legend of people who can transform into wolves. It mainly focuses on Robyn (Honor Kneafsey), a young girl who hopes to become a wolf hunter like her father, then she meets a young wolfwalker (Eva Whittaker) and her perspective starts to change. The Wolfwalkers cast also includes Sean Bean, Simon McBurney, and Maria Doyle Kennedy. 

Wolfwalkers and Encanto are both stories about legends and people with extraordinary abilities. These magical people are also a pack or family of some sort. I believe that people who enjoy Encanto for the magical elements and idea of legends and curses will also enjoy Wolfwalkers. 

Stream Wolfwalkers on AppleTV+.

Vivo (2021)

Vivo follows a magical kinkajou named Vivo (Lin-Manuel Miranda) from Havana, Cuba as he travels to Florida to help deliver a song to the true love of an old friend. He teams up with Gabi (Ynairaly Simo), the niece of his friend. Vivo’s voice cast also includes Zoe Saldana, Brian Tyree Henry, Juan de Marcos, Nicole Byer, and Gloria Estefan.

Vivo is another heartwarming animated film with Lin-Manuel Miranda’s music. Gabi and Mirabel are almost opposite characters. Mirabel is a little ashamed of being different from her family, while Gabi loves that she’s odd and weird. However, both girls would agree that they try their best to help their families.

Stream Vivo on Netflix.

Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989)

Kiki’s Delivery Service is a Studio Ghibli film that follows a young witch in training as she moves out on her own and runs a delivery service out of a bakery. The film is considered one of the best Studio Ghibli movies for many reasons, one of them being how easy it is to relate to Kiki's (dubbed in English by Kirsten Dunst) story of the trials and tribulations of growing up. 

Encanto and Kiki’s Delivery Service deal with what happens when you have to take charge of your own destiny. They both show the difficulties and growth that come from becoming the most active force in determining whether you fail or succeed. It also explores the anxiety one feels if they don’t meet expectations.

Stream Kiki’s Delivery Service on HBO Max.
Rent/buy Kiki’s Delivery Service on Amazon.

Onward (2020)

Onward is a Pixar and Disney movie about two brothers who go on a quest in order to see their deceased father one more time. The brothers exist in a world where mythical creatures live in semi-harmony, including elves, unicorns, and pixies. Onward’s voice cast features Tom Holland, Chris Pratt, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, and Octavia Spencer.

Onward and Encanto showcase the importance of familial bonds and how it pushes people to new heights in order to protect them, reunite them, or make them happy. It's more about the bonds between siblings, whereas Encanto’s main siblings are at odds, but them starting to understand each other kind of helps Encanto reach its resolution.

Stream Onward on Disney+.
Rent/buy Onward on Amazon.

The Willoughbys (2020)

The Willoughbys follows a group of siblings who try to find new parents. Their current ones are neglectful, selfish and self-centered. They really love each other, but not their children. The Willoughbys cast stars Will Forte, Maya Rudolph, Alessia Cara, Terry Crews, Martin Short, Jane Krakowski, Sean Cullen, and Ricky Gervais.

None of the Madrigal family are as terrible as the Willoughbys' parents, but both films show that sometimes families can be harmful, especially in how they treat each other. The Madrigals learn from their mistakes and begin to grow and build a stronger foundation because of it. The Willoughbys' children rely on each other for comfort and love. 

Stream The Willoughbys on Netflix.

In The Heights (2021)

In The Heights is based on the Lin-Manuel Miranda musical of the same name. It follows residents of the Washington Heights neighborhood in New York City. Usnavi (Anthony Ramos) is the narrator and main character, who dreams of leaving the Heights and returning to the Dominican Republic to revive his late father’s business.

The Madrigals are the main focus of Encanto but the community's love and respect for the family also plays a major role. At one point, the community comes together to help the Madrigals. Both In the Heights and Encanto put a major emphasis on the importance of community and that no one can do anything completely alone. Usnavi and Mirabel are also both major dreamers. Usnavi with his fantasies about returning to the Dominican Republic, and Mirabel about her hopes of saving her family and finally finding her place within that group and feeling special.

Stream In The Heights on HBO Max.
Buy In The Heights on Amazon.

Instant Family (2018)

Instant Family is the story of a couple who decide to foster a teen girl, and then find out that she has two younger siblings, so they foster all three. The main focus of the film is how these parents and children learn to be a family, and is based on a real life adoption story. Instant Family stars Mark Wahlberg, Rose Byrne, Isabela Merced, Gustavo Quiroz, and Julianna Gamiz.

Instant Family is extremely heartwarming, which makes it a good movie to pair with Encanto. Both explore topics of what makes a family work, and what happens when a family is kind of broken and needs repairing. These films explore how families can work together to overcome any obstacle.

Stream Instant Family on Paramount+.
Rent/buy Instant Family on Amazon.

The Encanto reactions prove that Disney has another hit animated film. It’s the right blend of heartwarming, exciting, unique, and charming. And, of course, it has great songs. Admit it, “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” is still in your head. Encanto is a great animated movie and now that you’ve watched it so many times, you can finally check out some other movies on this list. 

It’s been a year of delays, delays and more delays for a lot of major theatrical releases, but the tide may be finally turning. This weekend, despite being available on HBO Max, a slew of people ultimately opted to let the major studios know that they are ready and willing to get back to the theater with a monster theatrical release for Godzilla Vs. Kong. Things are looking good for the likes of Spiral and A Quiet Place Part II as well, prompting me to wonder: Did Disney make a mistake when it shifted Black Widow’s release date and the MCU schedule roughly a week ago?

Heading into the weekend, it was anticipated that Godzilla vs. Kong would make a little over $20 million in theaters, a tidy and middling number but not wholly unexpected during pandemic times, when theater capacity has been lessened and also when the movie was made available on HBO Max. Then a funny thing happened: The Millie Bobby Brown and Alexander Skarsgard starrer blew past that amount in two days -- weekdays no less. At the time of this writing (and Sunday box office numbers have not dropped yet), it’s made a much heftier sum.

Through Friday, the movie neared $28 million and new box office estimates have it in the $40-$50 million range for opening weekend domestically. That’s honestly not much lower than the opening weekend domestically for Godzilla: King of the Monsters, which opened to a little over $47 million in 2019. It’s also a sign that the box office is roaring back to life.

Why Did Disney Make The Call On Black Widow So Early?

The whole thing honestly has me wondering why Disney and Marvel didn’t wait to make the call on Black Widow a week ago. I know a lot of the major studios are hoping to hold onto their “sure things” until theaters are fully reopened, but there's one advantage movies opening over the next couple of months will have: there’s virtually no competition. When I went to see Godzilla vs. Kong this weekend, sure there were a few theaters devoted to Raya and the Last Dragon and Bob Odenkirk’s Nobody; however Godzilla vs. Kong had the run of a majority of screens.

Allowing major new movies releases to have a higher percentage of available screens in specific theaters lets these films potentially put up big numbers, even in areas with capacity limitations. In addition, newer features like allowing customers to order concession food on an app and pre-select their seats should make many guests who may have been a bit nervous about returning more comfortable. People should of course do what makes them more comfortable, but as a larger percentage of the population gets vaccinated, it's easy to envision a future in which pre-pandemic numbers are possible for the right movie.

It’s also weird because the news came right after head honcho Bob Chapek literally said the studio was going to be “flexible” and make a call “at the last minute.” Instead, the company made a call like 6 weeks+ out ahead of release. If the studio could just have held its horses and seen how Godzilla vs. Kong did and what the landscape looked like mid-month this month instead of jumping the gun and shifting to late summer, we could still be getting an MCU movie as Falcon and the Winter Soldier wrapped its Disney+ run. Plus, it’s worth noting that if Disney had just waited and even ultimately made the same call, at least the company would have made the same call with more information rather than less.

Why Black Widow’s Budget Likely Factors

To be fair, Black Widow needs to cover more ground than Godzilla vs. Kong, though not by much. The anticipated budget for Black Widow is $200 million while the new MonsterVerse film has been estimated at $160 million before marketing. Black Widow also has the distinct disadvantage of having to maintain marketing interest over a much longer period of time, given it was supposed to come out last May. Given the way box office works and given we don’t have specific access to the numbers, the general thought is that movies need to make at least 2.5X their budget in order to start making real money (and it may be even more for a movie that needed to sustain interest through an entire pandemic).

It’s also worth pointing out that Warner Bros. has a totally different philosophy toward this year than Disney seems to have. Warner Bros. has basically decided to push HBO Max over everything else. Disney seems to be fine pushing out the titles that weren’t “sure things” for the studio -- aka movies like Mulan and new, original property Raya and the Last Dragon, but unlike HBO Max, the studio hasn’t made it cheap or easy, upcharging on Disney+ to see the flicks. And over the last few weeks, there’s been a weird shift in the attitude toward the two approaches.

Warner Bros., Once Angering Directors, Is Now Having A Bright Moment

By holding big movies for their theatrical releases, Disney has carefully towed a line between trying not to lose money and also trying to make sure that theaters are still going to be available options for entertainment at the end of all of this global trouble. The company has sustained that image over a period of a year, until this week. Meanwhile, Warner Bros. pissed off the likes of Christopher Nolan, got into a legal fight with Legendary -- the company behind Godzilla vs. Kong -- and has overall incurred ire through nearly this entire pandemic period, even when it comes to things like industry paydays.

But by releasing Godzilla vs. Kong at a time when there is clearly an appetite for big movies and big movies are few and far between, it’s looking as if Warner Bros. has actually gotten it right this week. There’s an argument that could be made Legendary also had a key role in this, but the end result is that Godzilla vs. Kong is going to have a viable box office run and promote HBO Max at the same time. Meanwhile, theater owners are now angry that Black Widow held out so long yet will still simultaneously release on Disney+. What is Disney gaining as it now waits three more months for its next big MCU turn?

Cruella And Phase Four Of The MCU

If you look at the upcoming movies schedule over the next several months, Disney will be releasing Cruella at the end of May, Emma Stone’s highly-anticipated take on the famous 101 Dalmations character. So, to be clear, I’m not arguing that Disney is running scared here or not trying to help the box office landscape at all. But no offense, releasing Cruella over Black Widow would be like if Warner Bros. had decided to release Mortal Kombat and then Godzilla vs. Kong a few months later. Mortal Kombat and Cruella have fanbases, they both look like interesting movies --seriously no negative thoughts toward either of them -- but if you want to jumpstart the box office, you need Godzilla vs. Kong and you need Black Widow.

Most of what Marvel has coming up in Phase Four of the MCU are unknowns. People don’t know The Eternals and even though Kumail Nanjiani getting ripped has received positive reactions, a lot of people could not tell you much about that property as a whole. Shang-Chi is also a newcomer MCU character and while Marvel has made box office wins out of previously lesser known characters in the past, until Thor: Love and Thunder and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness are finally out, the MCU is going to be a lot of new, new, new. I would guess the thought process is that a July 9 release date will give more time for people to get vaccinated and for theaters to open up more, making Black Widow more of a sure thing. However, it’ll also be competing with Top Gun: Maverick (out the weekend before), so I’d argue that’s a factor as well.

Disney has a lot to factor in and none of the decisions the studios have made over the last 12 months have been made lightly. Choosing a release date is always somewhat of a chess game, and now Disney has to hedge whether or not it feels people will be ready to go back to the movies on top of competing with other theatrical releases. Studios at this point are also strapped and making money needs to factor in. In many ways, the studios are also deeply responsible for whether or not the future of theatrical entertainment will even involve movie theaters. I don’t necessarily blame Disney for making the choice it did, particularly given how much notice Disney+’s Marvel series have been getting and capably whetting people’s appetites for what’s next.

At the end of the day though, how cool would it have been if Black Widow had been one of the first movies to really get people back to theaters? As it stands, it’s looking like other titles are going to fill that gap.

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Last summer, Walt Disney Studios announced a Disney+ $30 add-on called Premier Access for the release of Mulan in place of the big-budget live action film coming to theaters amidst closures. Although specific metrics were not released for Mulan, outside data seemed to suggest success for the company. Disney then decided to make Raya and the Last Dragon available to view at home for an extra $30 with a Disney+ subscription, as well alongside a theatrical release. So, how’d it do?

New data found Raya and the Last Dragon had 20% less purchases on Disney+ during its early March opening weekend that Mulan had last fall, per Antenna. The analytics startup additionally found there to be a 30% decline in signups for the streaming service between March 5 and 7 in comparison to the first four weekends Mulan was available on Premier Access (via Business Insider).

In other words, Raya and the Last Dragon reportedly did not attract a ton of new subscribers to Disney+ during its debut weekend, nor did it match early Mulan purchases. When Niki Caro’s live-action remake came out, data suggested that the movie drove up Disney+ install rates by 68% and consumer spending on the app grew nearly 200% for the September release. Evidently Raya’s impression is much milder.

All this being said, Antenna’s data should not be taken at face value, because it presents neither the entire picture nor the raw data from Disney+. The startup reportedly pulled its data from opt-in panels on platforms, such as budgeting apps. But since Disney does not disclose its numbers, it’s the closest idea we have of how Raya and the Last Dragon did on Disney+ Premier Access.

Another factor here is the fact that Raya and the Last Dragon went to theaters and streaming at the same time, while Mulan was exclusive to Disney+ and some international markets. But Raya has underwhelmed at the box office too, scoring just $68.4 million worldwide after three weekends in theaters. It initially opened to $8.5 million, below Tom & Jerry’s $14 million debut the weekend prior.

Still, Raya and the Last Dragon was released during COVID times and is technically the 2nd highest grossing domestic release of 2021 thus far. The Premier Access model must be working for Disney in some capacity considering the company just announced this week that two of its summer flicks, Cruella and Black Widow, will come to theaters and be available to stream for the $30 Disney+ price tag as well.

Warner Bros is using a similar concept for all of its 2021 movies by releasing them both to theaters and offering them to HBO Max subscribers. In that instance, they are offered without an additional fee, but only for a 30-day window. Did you purchase Raya and the Last Dragon on Disney+ for $30 since its release? Vote in the poll below.

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Movie theaters were almost entirely closed for the better part of a year, and while they occasionally reopened in a few places, people in major parts of the country, like New York and Los Angeles, had no option to visit theaters even if they wanted to do so. Even now, many theaters are still closed. However, it does appear that, however slowly, things are beginning to finally reopen in a way that might be permanent. It's still going to be months, if not another year, before things are back to normal, but being able, and willing, to go to the movies again finally seems like a real possibility.

For the most part, we're now looking at a 2021 release calendar that looks an awful lot like the 2020 release calendar. Most studios held off on releasing their big tentpole movies until such time as they might be able to actually bring in significant box office dollars again. However, a handful of movies, both big and small, did come out in 2020, either during a time when no theaters were open or theaters were unavailable to many parts of the nation. Now that this is finally starting to change, here are the movies that could really use a theatrical release since they never really got one the first time around.

Hamilton

While it was not necessarily that shocking to see a number of planned 2020 releases make the jump to streaming platforms and VOD, one movie that nobody was expecting to see on Disney+ in 2020 was Hamilton. The filmed production of the stage musical had been set for a theatrical release in 2021, and while we were seeing the theatrical release calendar get a significant shakeup that included 2021 and beyond, nobody was expecting to see a movie planned that far out come that soon. Although it's great that we got to see it last summer, it would still be nice to see it in theaters. Not everybody watches movies at home with a great sound system, and being able to experience Hamilton with theater quality audio would make it worth spending the money for a movie ticket.

Soul

Several of Disney's planned 2020 releases ended up on Disney+, but perhaps the biggest of them all was Pixar's Soul. It was, without question, the most popular of this group with both fans and critics. And while Soul doesn't have a plot or a story that screams "big screen," Pixar animation is always a visual feast and best when seen in a theater. For many, Soul was a movie that brought them optimism and hope during a year where there was little of that going around. Being able to return to theaters by seeing Soul the way it was meant to be seen feels fitting. Hearing that impressive jazz soundtrack and Oscar nominated score on a theater sound system would give many fans an experience they simply could not have with the movie at home.

Bill and Ted Face the Music

Bill and Ted Face the Music was never going to be a box office heavyweight; that's just not the sort of franchise this is. But the first two Bill and Ted movies got theatrical releases, so it's only fair that the end of the trilogy gets the same treatment. Technically Bill and Ted Face the Music was released in theaters, but not really. It came out at a time that your best chance of seeing it was at the drive-in, assuming you have one of those in your neighborhood. For those of us that saw Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure and Bill and Ted's Bogus Journey in theaters, we were looking forward to completing the trilogy the same way, and without that experience, it feels like something is missing.

Mulan

When theaters shut down a year ago, Mulan was one of those movies that we thought would be among the first big blockbusters available to watch when they returned. However, while some studios continued to push back films, Disney eventually relented and released the live-action version of Mulan as the first Premium Access title for Disney+, but at a premium price. Mulan, to be blunt, isn't the best movie. It has issues from a story perspective that keep it from really being something special. However, the movie is visually stunning, and as such, it could really use theatrical exhibition to show off the gorgeous cinematography on hand. Even watching Mulan in 4K on Disney+, it feels small. The movie was clearly shot with theatrical exhibition in mind, and it would be nice to see it that way given the chance.

Tenet

The other big movie besides Mulan that would hold out in an attempt to be the film marking a triumphant return to theaters was Christopher Nolan's Tenet. The movie would technically get a theatrical release, just like the director wanted, but it was during a time when movie theaters were still largely unavailable to most, and many of those who might have capable of visiting theaters were less sure about doing so. Christopher Nolan is a supporter of theatrical exhibition and there's no reason that his movie shouldn't get the release he wanted to see it get. There absolutely is value in that experience, and it would be nice for those who wanted to see Tenet in theaters, but never really had the chance, to finally be able to do so.

To be sure, getting theatrical releases now are unlikely to turn any of these movies into massive blockbusters. With all of them already available at home, many people that might have bought tickets before won't do so now. But for those who really appreciate theaters and everything they represent, and everything they're capable of providing that can't be replicated at home, the chance to see these movies, and others, on the big screen would be appreciated and enjoyed by a lot of fans. Hopefully, at some point, we can see some of these movies impacted by the pandemic given special theatrical engagements for those that would absolutely go back to the theater to experience them in a brand-new way.

In a year where many people may have spent more time indoors than they're accustomed used to, the world needed action now more than ever. Unfortunately, there were some big-ticket items on the docket for action that were sidelined due to the pandemic, so audiences were tasked with seeking out things that could deliver at least the punch of James Bond, if not the class and high-quality suits.

Fortunately, 2020 still had a relatively good year in action, and there are certainly more than a few released that will stand the test of time as quality movies that will be revisited for generations to come. The following is a list of the best 10 films, ranked from good to greatest, with a bit of additional commentary on what made these movies such fun rides from start to finish.

10. Mulan

Even if 2020 wouldn't have happened, it's hard to believe Mulan wouldn't have delivered some of the best martial arts fight scenes we'd see all year. It's not often that Disney goes this hard on the action and, while in a normal year this film may have not made the list due to other offerings, I absolutely think it deserves a spot on the list of top action films of 2020. I could probably watch Liu Yifei kick objects at people all day, so it's a good thing this movie gives us plenty of it.

9. Honest Thief

Honest Thief is a movie that, to be completely honest, may be familiar with some viewers. Liam Neeson is the aged action hero in a plot that revolves around him being a badass and dealing out justice where needed. It won't win an Oscar but, at its heart, it's exactly what a classic action film is. It doesn't have to be great, it just has to deliver action in spades, and this movie certainly does that. Go in with the right expectations, and this is certainly a film worthy of a spot on the list.

8. Jiu Jitsu

Jiu Jitsu is the definitive movie for anyone who is a super fan of Nicolas Cage. I guess if there were one thing I could say to sell you on this movie, it's that there's a scene where Cage respectfully bows to a murderous alien Predator-type, and then the two proceed to have an epic katana fight. That's just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the zany off-the-wall action in this movie, all of which seems to be at least somewhat tongue-in-cheek.

7. Project Power

I can't say Project Power was the best superhero movie I saw in 2020 (not many will), but I will say it was one of the better action movies I saw. The high-intensity action mixed with superpowers made for some especially entertaining sequences, with the fire in the apartment being one of the highlights that had me on the edge of my seat. I also liked the idea that everyone only had their powers on a temporary basis, which forced the movie not to just shower viewers with CGI heavy scenes but to rely on some good old close-quarters combat to keep the action rolling.

6. The Old Guard

The Old Guard was one of the most hyped Netflix releases of the year, and with good reason. The world got to see Charlize Theron bringing her badass energy to an action film yet again, in a Highlander-esque ensemble that really went for it with the gun battles. It was great, and it will be even greater if Netflix is able to get a sequel going, especially after that teasy post-credits scene.

5. Tenet

Christopher Nolan's Tenet was obviously going to make the list, and the action that happens in it is great. With that being said, I mentioned earlier that story isn't always important when it comes to a likable action film and, in this case, the plot did seem to get in the way of some people's enjoyment in the movie. For that reason, it's definitely a Top 5 contender for the best action film of 2020, but I can't in good conscience give it any higher than that.

4. Birds Of Prey

Birds Of Prey (And The Fantabulous Emancipation Of One Harley Quinn) certainly ranks on the higher end of this list and features some of the most brutal action scenes we saw in 2020. I don't think I'll ever be able to rest my legs on anything where there's a space in between my ankles and thighs for fear of someone jumping down and snapping them in half.

3. Bad Boys For Life

It took damn near two decades for Bad Boys to get another movie, but it finally happened and was well worth the wait. The action was top-notch, the tension between Mike and Marcus was a nice touch and overall, it was like the franchise hadn't lost a step in its time away. I guess if there's one complaint I can lodge, it's that I didn't like the main song from the soundtrack nearly as much as "Shake Ya Tailfeather." But hey, not everything is perfect.

2. Extraction

When I saw a kid get thrown off a roof in Extraction, I knew shit was going to get intense. In terms of balls-out action, this movie does not disappoint in the slightest, though I did have beef with it killing off so many characters that I would've loved to seen make a return in the sequel. I also thought it was a bit crazy how Chris Hemsworth's Tyler Rake managed to survive that whole ordeal at all, but I guess if John Wick can keep on ticking after three movies, he can, too.

1. Wonder Woman 1984

2020 was a downer year for film, but even one of the worst years on record managed to save its best or last. In Wonder Woman 1984, Gal Gadot is kicking ass, taking names, and reminding us along the way that movies are coming back in a big way in 2021, even if the future of theaters may still be up in the air. Even so, this one is definitely the newest on the list but without question, the best bang for your buck when it comes to superhero action.

Any picks you think were left off the list? Feel free to throw them into the comments below, and continue to stick with CinemaBlend for more on the best of 2020, and everything ahead in movies and television.

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Mulan was meant to be one of Disney's major theatrical releases in 2020. Of course, as with all theatrical releases, that plan hit some snags. Disney delayed for most of the year, hoping that theaters would be open and audiences would return. Unfortunately, those thigs did not happen. This led Disney to take Mulan in a unique direction as far as distribution. The movie was put on the Disney+ streaming service, as had happened with other films as well. In the case of though Mulan, it was priced at $29.99, on top of one already needing a Disney+ subscription. It's unclear how many people actually sprung for that additional cost, but if you're one of the people who did not, there's good news. Mulan is now available for no additional fee, as long as you're a current subscriber to Disney+, of course.

If you waited this long, then perhaps the live-action Mulan just didn't appeal to you for some reason. While Disney's live-action remakes of its animated films have frequently brought in box office billions, there are those that don't care for them, to be sure. But now that Mulan is all but $7 away, there are some reasons worth giving the new Mulan a chance.

It's Not A Carbon Copy Of The Original

While seeing an animated Disney classic brought to life on the screen is one reason that many people love the live-action remakes, I've always been partial to those movies that took the property in a different direction. Maleficent gave us the villain's point of view. Dumbo was really more sequel than remake. While Mulan is, at its core, the same story as the animated one, there are a lot of significant differences. If what you want is a live-action version of the same story you already love, then Mulan might not work, but if you want something a little different, this is it.

The live-action Mulan isn't a musical, first and foremost. There are some references to the original Disney songs in the score, but that's about it. Entirely new characters have been added, such as Mulan having a sister now. They've also been taken away; for instance, Mulan doesn't have a grandmother here. Other characters have been radically changed. Li Shang of the animated Mulan is now effectively two characters, which drastically changes the interactions and motivations of everybody involved. New villains are here with new motivations. The plot isn't fresh, but it's been refreshed more than most Disney remakes.

Awesome Martial Arts Action

The new Mulan was a movie that was clearly designed to appeal to an audience outside the United States. The animated movie was never embraced in China and Disney wanted this one to work better in the second largest box office nation on earth. Many of the design and style choices were made with this in mind. The lack of a sidekick comedy dragon is specifically due to this. Bit if there's one major benefit to this strategy, it's that the new Mulan has some really fun martial arts sequences that were clearly inspired by the films of Asia.

The animated Mulan wasn't without quality action, but the cartoon version never looked quite like this. Mulan is a goddess of wire-fu throughout the film and that makes the action sequences here worth watching all by themselves. If you're a serious devotee of Asian cinema, there won't be anything you haven't already seen, but we certainly haven't seen anything like it in a Disney movie before. And there's simply a lot more of it. The new Mulan is a significantly longer film than the animated one, and much of that extra run time is given over to action scenes.

Beautiful Cinematography

While it is nice that we got to see Mulan this year rather than having it pushed off to 2021 and beyond, there are certainly downsides to that as well. The movie was clearly filmed to be seen on the big screen. No place is that more evident then the fact that the movie is simply beautiful to look at. Even if you ignore the characters and the story, the locations where Mulan was filmed, primarily New Zealand, are just lovely, and the movie makes a point to show it all to you.

Yes, it would have better on a big screen, but that's not going to happen anytime soon. And so, it's better to see it on your TV then not see it at all. That being said, Mulan is available in glorious 4K UHD on Disney+, so if you do have a compatible television, it still looks pretty damn amazing.

Donnie Yen... Enough Said

As mentioned earlier, the character of Li Shang from the original film was transformed in the new one into two separate characters. Yosan An played Chen, the love interest character for the story, and Donnie Yen was Commander Tung, Mulan's commanding officer. Honestly, the love interest side of the story didn't really do it for me, though your mileage may vary. However, Donnie Yen is pretty much always great in everything he does, and Mulan is no exception.

I'm not sure there's anybody better alive today who could have played the role of Tung in the new Mulan. He's a surrogate father to Mulan while still being able to lead his troops and show that he has all the skills necessary to do that. Does Donnie Yen get a superfluous scene that's there just to let the accomplished actor show off his martial arts skill? Of course he does. Do we care? No, we do not.

Ming-Na Wen's Cameo

If there's a true downside to live-action remakes, even the good ones, it's that attention shifts to the live-action actors, and often the voice talent that brought the animated characters to life can be overlooked. Ming-Na Wen voiced Mulan in the original animated film, but nobody was going to let the audience forget about her completely. Keep your eyes open, because she makes an appearance in the live-action movie as well.

If you've somehow made this far without seeing or learning about her appearance, I'm not going to spoil it for you here. Just rest assured that if you get near the end of the movie and you haven't seen her yet, you haven't missed anything. Ming-Na Wen takes center stage when she appears, so she's hard to miss. And that's a great thing, because the live-action remake wouldn't be here if it wasn't for her.

Is the live-action Mulan remake a perfect movie. No, not really, but it's not a complete mess either. It has high points and low points, just like most movies. And honestly, if you already have Disney+ (if you don't, use the following link to sign up), why wouldn't you just give it a look. I guess that's the bonus sixth reason to watch it. You're basically paying for it now anyway, so why not?

When it was announced back in August that the live-action version of Mulan would skip movie theaters and go straight to Disney+, it caused quite a stir. As you can imagine, that decision also affected the cast and crew and now one Mulan star shared how he felt when it didn’t get a chance to be seen on the big screen. And now one such cast member has opened up about these complicated feelings.

For many movies, the theatrical experience is the key destination. So for Chen Tang, the actor who played Yao one of the soldiers that befriend Mulan, when Mulan didn’t get that experience, he had mixed feelings about it. The actor told Insider that they filmed it big and intended for it to be seen big. Here’s what he said:

After Mulan landed on Disney+, there was a serious case to be made that it truly deserved a theatrical release for it to be experienced to its fullest. Of course, in any other environment, Disney likely would have done just that. But due to current events, it thought it would be better going direct to VOD.

Mulan may not have gotten the theatrical experience it deserved, but Chen Tang sees a silver lining to all of it and is just happy people got to see it. He said later,

Disney’s live-action remake strategy has been mostly a big success, with many of the movies breaking $1 billion at the box office. So they likely had the same hopes for Mulan. That said, it sounds like Mulan still did well on Disney+, with one head honcho saying they were pleased with what they saw.

Disney’s Mulan won’t be the only movie that would have gotten a theatrical release heading straight to Disney+ this year. In another surprise announcement in October, Disney revealed that Pixar’s Soul will also skip the theater and go to Disney+, instead. Its planned release date is December 25. Unsurprisingly, this move has caused movie theaters to sound an alarm.

Though Mulan didn’t get a theatrical release, it might not be out of the question for that to change in the future. After all, older movies get re-releases in the theater all the time. Perhaps Disney will do the same for Mulan once things go back to normal? I'd imagine there'd be quite a few fans eager to see it in the theater.

In the last few days, the movie world has been abuzz with one particular name: Borat. The Sacha Baron Cohen character saw his second film launch this past weekend on Amazon Prime, and its widespread viewership was evident just in the amount of chatter it stirred up online. Of course, it's been a bit harder to calculate its success since it's on a streaming service instead of the box office, but now Amazon has provided a round figure to chew on and marvel at.

While the numbers provided aren't exactly specific, Amazon has announced that Borat 2 a.k.a. Borat Subsequent Moviefilm was streamed by tens of millions of customers during its first weekend – which began with a virtual watch party that featured a dance party with the titular Kazakh reporter. According to the company, more than a million fans tuned into that event alone.

So how does that debut stack up against other major streaming launches from this fall – for example, Disney+'s Mulan? Well, it's a bit hard to say given that the streaming numbers aren't nearly as clear as box office figures and not uniformly reported, but based on the statistics that have launched it definitely looks like the raunchy comedy was watched by way more people in its first few days than the family adventure film (though it is important to note that Mulan had a handicap of a $30 price tag in addition to standard Disney+ streaming service fees).

In mid-September, which is to say a couple weeks after Mulan's Labor Day weekend launch, it was reported that just under 30 percent of households in the United States with a Disney+ subscription opted to purchase access to the film, which roughly translates to about 9 million accounts. Compared to the numbers presented by Amazon, Borat 2 has already outpaced those numbers within a much shorter time frame.

That being said, that has also been alternative reporting of the figures. Variety has numbers provided by TV analytics provider Samba TV, and they say that Mulan played in 1.2 million households vs. Borat 2 playing in an estimated 1.6 million. Those are vastly different stats than those above, but that's very much a side effect of the more privately controlled distribution model.

What will also obviously be interesting to track is how well Borat 2 continues to perform in the weeks ahead. Most blockbuster competition has vacated from release dates in November, and it's worth noting that when the first Borat was released in 2006 it stayed at number one at the box office for two weeks, and remained in the top 10 for nearly a month.

As long as movie theater closures remain a thing, streaming ratings for major movies will continue to remain an interesting subject, so stay tuned for all of the latest here on CinemaBlend.

All the film studios have tried a variety of different methods to get their major theatrical projects in front of audiences during the global pandemic. Some have moved films direct to streaming platforms. Others have made movies available via Premium VOD rental option. Even a few have opened in theaters where possible, even if that has mainly meant drive-ins in recent months. Disney tried something thus far unique with Mulan, by basically doing all of the above. If you wanted to watch the movie in the U.S. you had to both have a Disney+ subscription and pay $29.99 for a premium VOD purchase. However, starting next week, anybody who wants to watch Mulan digitally will be able to do so without Disney+.

The digital film platforms FandangoNOW and Vudu have announced that beginning Tuesday, October 6, Mulan will be available for digital purchase for $29.99. This means that while the movie will still cost the same that it did as a Premium VOD offering on Disney+, you don't actually need to have Disney+ so technically that makes the movie six dollars cheaper. Vudu is also sweetening the pot by offering a three dollar credit on a future purchase if you pre-order Mulan.

Normally this would be a fast transition from the movie's initial release to the Digital release, it will have basically been just about a month, but really you can't call anything normal right now. Mulan is so far the only movie to have gone with the purchase price route on top of the paid subscription, so nobody knew how successful it would be.

Technically, we still don't, as Disney has yet to release any official numbers regarding the number of Disney+ subscribers who actually spent the additional money. Some estimates have been made which would indicate that Mulan, at least, wasn't a total failure, but more than likely anybody who was going to pay the Disney+ price has done so by now, and so it certainly doesn't hurt to make the movie more available and see if it can pull in some additional revenue.

Especially because it's already been announced that Mulan will be made available as a standard Disney+ title in early December, so there's only so much time before that happens. If you have Disney+ but didn't pay for the Premium Access film, just sit tight for two more months. It will be interesting to see if, given the compressed timeline, Mulan even gets any sort of physical Blu-ray release. Under the circumstances, it looks like it might happen after it hits standard Disney+.

While Disney+ subscriber numbers are pretty impressive, certainly there are a lot of people who don't have the service. This means there's at least a decent-sized audience who might be willing to go ahead and grab Mulan now that they have the opportunity. Are you one of those people? Let us know in the poll below.

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The theater closure brought about by the pandemic saw the different movie studios react in different ways but we saw some patterns emerge eventually. For the most part, movie releases that were seen as big "tentpole" style releases saw their release dates delayed, some by a couple of months, some by a year or more. Smaller films that weren't seen as having massive box office potential were moved to VOD and streaming services. However, Disney recently bucked that trend by deciding to release Mulan, a movie that was expected to be a box office powerhouse, as a premium VOD product on Disney+. The decision was a surprise, but it may have paid off in a big way.

Mulan was released theatrically in some markets, including China, where the expectations were huge, and thus far the film has failed to be embraced there, but the Disney+ response appears to have been quite different. Thus far, Disney has not released any official numbers as far as how many households actually put down the $29.99 on top of their regular subscription fee to watch the film, however, Yahoo is reporting that analytics research firm 7Park Data has calculated that nearly 30% of U.S. Households with Disney+ purchased the movie before September 12, which translates to over $260 million in revenue.

To be clear, these numbers are estimates and are based on little hard data from Disney. We know that the global Disney+ subscriber base is over 60 million people. We don't actually know how many U.S. subscribers there are, but the numbers are based on the estimate that about half of subscribers are in the U.S. This means that about nine million households spent the extra cash on Mulan.

Disney has only publicly said the company was "pleased" with the Disney+ results, but at this point, we likely won't get any hard numbers from the company until the next earnings call, which is expected in November, unless the recently announced Investors Day happens first. Still, if these numbers are close to accurate, it's understandable why Disney would be pleased. Combined with the global box office numbers it would put Mulan somewhere around a $300 million gross, which, in the case of this movie may only be enough to keep the film from losing money, but under the circumstances, you can call that a win.

If these Disney+ numbers are approaching accurate, then this is, at the very least, very good news for Disney+. Even with reports that Mulan will become a standard part of the service before the end of the year, millions were willing to spend the cash to watch the movie earlier than that, and demand for the film was high enough that people spent more for it then most other premium VOD movies have been going for recently, especially when you add in the month of Disney+ that was also necessary.

While Disney had previously called Mulan a "one-off" meaning that we should not be expecting more Premium Disney+ content, the company also said they would be watching the response closely. Disney+ had already proved itself to be a powerhouse in the streaming service game and now it's looking even stronger.

Say what you will about Mulan, but one thing is for sure, those who worked on it put a lot of effort into the production. Perhaps one of the most impressive aspects of it is the incredible fight scenes. With many of the characters performing supernatural feats and often fighting multiple characters at once, it looked like the choreography was complicated, including the final fight. But according to Mulan’s main antagonist Jason Scott Lee, there was one scene that was even more complicated to shoot.

Though I won’t spoil anything, the final fight scene in Mulan looked tough to pull off with a few interesting elements involved that made it quite a scene to behold. But as it so happens, Jason Scott Lee, who played villain Böri Khan, told Collider that he had trained for scenes that were ultimately cut and was actually the most complicated to pull off. Here’s what he said:

Wow, he’s got me invested in what that opening fight scene with Böri Khan showing up would have looked like. While Böri Khan’s entrance in the movie included some stunning effects, it's not of this exact scale. It sounds like they had something bigger, but didn’t have the time to make it happen. FOMO alert.

Of course, things like this happen all the time in the movie industry. Scripts get rewritten during production, characters and scenes get added or removed, and later down the line, there’s typically reshoots that need to happen. Mulan was no different and underwent a number of changes while being made.

In the case of Jason Scott Lee, his villainous character underwent multiple changes before they went into production. Most of the original ideas, he admitted, were pretty outlandish, including long riding coats and a wolf’s head on his shoulder. Obviously, they scaled it down to what we see in the film.

It’s hard to say if we’ll get to see any of these deleted fight scenes Jason Scott Lee mentions or if they were all removed before production. If they did end up filming any of them, I, for one, would be eager to hear if they end up in bonus features on the Blu-Ray. Stay tuned for more movie news at CinemaBlend.

Disney's live-action Mulan wanted to be one of the big tentpole releases welcoming people back to theaters. While that didn't end up working out domestically, as the movie has instead been released as a premium VOD product on Disney+, the film is getting theatrical distribution elsewhere, including in China, a country that was expected to be big for Mulan for numerous reasons. Unfortunately, it's not working out that way, as the film opened in China to only $23 million on its first weekend, which was below expectations that were already on the low side.

China is the second biggest box office in the world and is a place where Disney often finds box office success with Marvel movies and other major tentpole releases. And with Mulan being a Chinese story, there was, of course, hope that China would embrace this new live-action version. The studio made no secret that many of the changes made from the original Disney animated version were done specifically to better appeal to the Chinese audience.

According to THR, expectations were that Mulan would do something in the range of $30 to $40 million, which would have put the film either on par or better than the $30 million that Tenet did on its first weekend in China, but it didn't work out that way. Chinese response has not been kind to the film. It seems that while Disney tried to make this movie specifically appeal to the Chinese audience, that hasn't worked out.

It will be interesting to see what it is about the new Mulan that didn't work for China. Everything from the removal of Mushu the talking dragon to the fact that Mulan doesn't cut her hair in the new version of the film was done, at least in part, because elements like those in the original movie were part of the reason the animated version didn't work in China the first time around.

The Chinese box office accounts for more than half of the total international take for Mulan, which has brought in $37.6 million from 17 different markets. How much the movie has brought in from Disney+ has yet to be announced by the House of Mouse, though the public comments we have heard indicate that Disney is happy with what the studio has seen. Estimates are that something in the range of one million households viewed the film on its opening weekend domestically but that doesn't take into account what happened in other countries that saw the Disney+ or the viewership that has been added since then.

Certainly, the $200 million blockbuster is going to have some trouble being successful in the current environment, but that's going to be the case for any movie, regardless of how popular it might have been otherwise. Mulan was going to be a big hit, and it still might be, even if what constitutes a big hit right now is very different.

Mulan’s bumpy ride from page to screen, in theory, would have ended when it premiered -- but it doesn’t appear that will be the case. Amid multiple rounds of controversy and a constantly-shifting release schedule that resulted in its release on Disney+, it’s made headlines time and again since it was announced. Now that it’s been released, Mulan is facing a new round of scrutiny over one of its filming locations -- and Disney has responded to the backlash.

After Mulan hit Disney+ earlier this month, some fans quickly noticed that in the credits, the filmmakers acknowledged a government agency in the Xinjiang province of China. That area is controversial because it is where Uighurs, a minority ethnic group, are being detained in mass internment camps. According to Deadline, Xinjiang province officials authorized the Mulan crew to film in that region.

As the area is a focal point of global concern, controversy arose over its inclusion in the Mulan credits. American politicians have criticized Disney’s decision to enter into a relationship with the Xinjian province and called on the studio to remove the film from theaters and Disney+.

When Deadline asked Disney CFO Christine McCarthy about the scrutiny over the shooting location and its impact on the film’s reception, she was straightforward:

Christine McCarthy went on to provide more insights -- and addressed how the controversy has impacted the studio:

This is not the only issue Mulan has faced with regard to the Chinese government. In 2019, fans online organized a #BoycottMulan hashtag campaign after the film’s star, Liu Yifei, expressed support for the Hong Kong police force amidst widespread demonstrations within the region. Mulan was also saddled with numerous logistical issues, including costly reshoots and COVID-19-related release issues.

Despite the myriad issues Mulan has faced, many critics praised the movie and early data seems to indicate it’s found an audience on Disney+.

After a movie such as Mulan gets released, usually we’d examine how its box office performance and determine how the Disney remake performed against its massive $200 million production budget. But in an unprecedented move for the studio, Disney decided to bring the action epic straight to homes last weekend. Mulan costs $30 to view, on top of a Disney+ subscription, before it heads to the streaming library later this year. So how’d it do this week?

Since Disney has not revealed specific figures, it’s not an easy task to measure the success of Mulan. The movie is currently at #6 on the streaming service’s “Trending” tab, but there’s a few ways we can gauge the performance of the Disney remake thus far, especially in terms of comparing audience interaction with Mulan to the drop of Hamilton back in July. And it appears to be looking good.

Earlier this week, Mulan was the #1 movie on Disney+’s “Trending” tab and, according to the streaming guide Reelgood (via IndieWire), the movie had a 15% share among all titles streamed, out of the two million users who access VOD platforms through Reelgood. In comparison, Hamilton, during its first weekend, had about a nearly 10% share. Bill & Ted Face The Music has a 5% share.

Theoretically, it's a large sample for the service that could indicate Mulan is a success for the studio. Another piece of data from Sensor Tower tracked the amount of downloads of the Disney+ app the week of Mulan’s release against the week prior. According to TechCrunch, Mulan upped install rates by 68%, and consumer spending within the app grew 193% during the week as well. In other words, Disney+ saw a lot more money roll in during Mulan’s “opening weekend” than usual.

However, per Sensor Tower’s reporting method, Mulan did not quite outpace Hamilton. When the stage musical hit Disney+ on Independence Day weekend, Hamilton’s debut bumped up Disney+ app downloads 79% from the weekend prior. Considering there's about a ten-percent difference, the spike Mulan created would be inherently more prominent either way since new users would be paying $6.99 for a monthly membership and $29.99 to view Mulan.

Disney CFO Christine McCarthy made a brief comment about the performance of Mulan earlier this week, saying the company was “very pleased” with what they saw. But without box office numbers or streaming figures, the true reach of Mulan is tough to measure. The movie is currently hitting theaters in places like China and Russia and Disney+ is available globally.

Based on what we’re seeing, there was legitimate interest in Disney+’s experiment with Mulan. In many regions, theaters are not open or operating at capacity, so perhaps it was an enticing offer to Disney fans – especially those with families. Did you check out Mulan this week and are you interested in the platform continuing to offer “Premier Access?” Vote in our poll below and stay tuned here on CinemaBlend on the latest movies coming to streaming.

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Mulan SPOILERS are ahead.

It's always an uphill battle to bring back a classic to audiences after they have spent their childhoods living with these characters. Disney has been remaking a number of its animated treasures, most notably from the studio’s Renaissance era, which lasted from 1989 to 1999. After the success of Aladdin and The Lion King last year, Niki Caro’s Mulan is here, but this one is not like the others.

While the other recent remakes have heavily borrowed from their animated predecessors, Mulan seeks to defy the musical in quite a few ways Although if you follow along closely, there are a ton of nods to the 1998 version too. When speaking to Jimmy Wong, the live-action movie’s Ling, over a video call, I asked the actor about one scene from the original in particular: when Mulan’s soldier friends help her save China by masquerading as femme fatales in order to distract Shan Yu’s army. Here’s what Wong said regarding if it was ever going to make its way into the 2020 version:

So it was never in the cards for Ling, Yao and Chien Po to storm the castle with Mulan. While revisiting the original, Jimmy Wong told CinemaBlend he felt it was one of the more ridiculous moments in the original that he didn’t particularly miss in the live-action version. However, he did find himself missing Eddie Murphy’s Mushu and memorable songs like “I’ll Make A Man Out Of You” or “Reflection.”

The new movie traded the comedy and musical elements that are tied to Disney’s animation genre for a more dramatic and epic retelling. When looking at 2020’s Mulan this way, it makes sense why elements such as Mushu or the more comedic moments with the other soldiers were left out. Though, Jimmy Wong has thought about pulling together a clever Halloween costume with this moment:

If handled with care, that moment from the 1998 version could have furthered the movie’s exploration of gender expression too. But when the movie hits the third act, Mulan is largely on her own taking on Jason Scott Lee’s Bori Khan, with the other soldiers elsewhere fighting off Khan's soldiers.

As far as Mushu goes, Niki Caro said the dragon was not part of the film because the filmmakers felt it was important for Mulan to cultivate relationships with her fellow soldiers and commit to “the realism of her journey.” And as you might imagine, having characters bust out into song wouldn’t exactly commit to the film’s realist vision either.

Mulan is currently available to view on Disney+ for $29.99 until November 2, and will join the streaming service this December. Check out more exclusive Mulan coverage here on CinemaBlend and our 2020 release schedule for what movies are coming later this year.

Disney's live-action adaptations of its animated films have been, almost without exception, massive box office successes. Several of them have broken the $1 billion mark at the global box office, and Mulan was widely expected to be another huge hit. The expectation was so strong that it was little shock that, rather than shift the film to VOD platforms or delay the film by a significant period, Mulan was originally playing the waiting game with the pandemic, with hopes to be one of the first major film releases in theaters once those theaters were open again. Unfortunately, what was hoped to be only a brief delay only continued to drag on, forcing Disney to make new plans.

In the end, Disney relented and released Mulan on Disney+, but as a Premium VOD product, meaning that it would cost viewers $30 in addition to having a current Disney+ subscription to watch it. It was a unique response to a very unique situation, but the real question remains. Did it work? Disney CFO Christine McCarthy was asked that exact question yesterday when she appeared virtually at the Citi 2020 Global Technology Conference, and while she did not go into specifics, it seems that so far, Disney is happy with the reception the film has seen. McCarthy told the conference...

That response is obviously, pretty vague, but it's also unequivocally positive. If Disney was less than thrilled with the "opening weekend" numbers for Mulan, Christine McCarthy could have downplayed the results or just been even vaguer in describing the situation. It wouldn't make sense to play up the film's success too much if that wasn't justified, as at some point more specifics will surely be released. McCarthy told the conference (via Reuters) that more details would be released at the company's next earnings call, which will be in November.

Whatever numbers Mulan puts up will almost certainly look small compared to what a tentpole theatrical release can potentially do, but you have to assume that when Christine McCarthy says the company is pleased, she's speaking in a relative sense. This whole thing was very much a test balloon and while Disney certainly had expectations, it was anybody's guess how close to the mark they'd be. Of course, Mulan is starting from a strong position considering that Disney+ as a subscription service has already surpassed pretty much all expectations as far as subscriber numbers go, which means the number of people who could drop their Mulan money with the click of a button was not insignificant.

Disney has been clear to tell people not to draw any conclusions or have any expectations for future releases like this, at the same time, with the theatrical experience overall still very much an open question, the possibility that Mulan could be the first of several releases like this is always there.

It’s hard to come down off of ReelBlend Episode #133. That was the one where Mount Rushmore director Christopher Nolan joined the ReelBlend boys to geek out (in his own way) about Tenet. But the show needs to soldier on, and we have something new and shiny and awesome to obsesses over.

Denis Villeneuve’s first full Dune trailer.

Have you seen it yet? You probably want to watch this trailer before pressing play on the new ReelBlend. Because Sean got an early sneak peek at it. And Jake and Kevin both comment on the teaser that ran in theaters before Tenet. So watch! And this listen to our Dune comments on the latest episode of the show.

HBO Max has a new comedy dropping this week. Unpregnant stars Haley Lu Richardson and Barbie Ferreira in a teen road-trip movie that also tackles, head on, the discussions about readily available abortions in select U.S. states. Director Rachel Lee Goldenberg is our guest this week, with amazing stories to tell about her cast, and the filming of Unpregnant.

The weekly poll this week had to do with Mulan, which was available to rent on Disney+. You guys voted on whether or not you were going to pay for it. And then we discussed whether it was worth it… and we had VERY different opinions.

We also commented on the first trailer for Rebecca, starring Lily James and Armie Hammer. And we got into a great conversation about the current Tenet box office situation, which is slowly collecting dollars thanks to a limited theatrical run.

Finally, we have some exciting news! We’ve teamed up with Warner Bros. Home Entertainment to take you behind-the-scenes with some of Hollywood’s most influential filmmakers. Starting on Sept. 15 at 5pm PT/ 8 pm ET, the three RB hosts will be introducing a series of documentaries on some of our favorite directors. Live tweet during the movies with all of us by using #WBFilmmakers! More details as we get closer.

Be sure to subscribe to the show on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts, including YouTube! You can also sign up to get an extra, exclusive episode of the show each week with a ReelBlend Premium subscription right here.