There are many reasons why Disney movies are some of the most beloved films of all time. The storylines are gripping and uplifting, the music is memorable, and the animation is beautiful.
While some may consider Disney movies as only surface-level entertainment for children, they often have thought-provoking messages that leave the viewer with a new perspective. Every Disney movie has some sort of message attached to it, but there are a few with more powerful takeaways than the rest. Read on for the top 10 Disney movies with the best messages!
In this article:
Cinderella
The story of Cinderella is one that most people know, even if they have not seen the classic Disney film. The “rags-to-riches” trope is one that is used throughout many different movie and television genres, where the main character living in a bad situation is able to push through to end up in a position with more wealth, power, or fame. The “rags-to-riches” storyline is also utilized in Disney’s Cinderella, but there is another message the movie provides that is arguably more important: having courage and being kind to others will set you up for a “rich” life, even if you don’t become wealthy or famous in the process.
Throughout the film, Cinderella is treated poorly by her stepmother and stepsisters simply because they feel more powerful than her. Despite how unhappy they make her feel, she never stops treating them respectfully. She also shows kindness to the animals in her home, even though she has more power than them. She may be in a higher position than the mice and birds, but she still helps them in whatever way she can, and in turn, they help her when she needs it most.
The message “have courage and be kind” is a great reminder that even if others are treating you badly, you should still approach them with respect. While they may not recognize your kindness, other people will, like the Prince does with Cinderella. If you are able to respectfully and courageously stand up to your bullies, you will be end up being rewarded.
The Princess and the Frog
Disney's The Princess and the Frog has a message that is beneficial for everyone, no matter their age or circumstances. For most of the movie, Tiana is focused on working as hard as she possibly can to achieve her dream of opening her own restaurant, and she does not allow herself to relax or have any fun. Meanwhile, Naveen has the opposite problem—he spends all of his time engaging in frivolous activities and has not worked a day in his life.
As the film progresses, the characters learn that the best way to live is to have an even mix of both work and play. By the end of the film, Tiana and Naveen are able to compromise with an equal balance of work ethic and fun.
The message we take from this is that while hard work is admirable, it can quickly become exhausting if there is no time built in to play. And if all someone ever does is play, they will not know the value of hard work when they really need it. A balance of both is essential for a happy life.
Tarzan
Another movie from the Golden Age of Disney animation that has a great message is Tarzan. In the story of Tarzan, learning that he belongs to an entirely different species than the one he grew up with is challenging for him, his gorilla family, and the other humans he meets. The gorillas shelter Tarzan from his true identity because they are scared of humans and are worried that he could find out and turn on them. Jane and her father don’t understand why Tarzan would want to remain in the jungle with his family when he could go with them to become part of the human world.
Ultimately, the gorillas and humans are all able to recognize that although they may come from two completely different worlds, they have similar hopes, dreams, wants, and needs for their lives. The idea that we all have things in common no matter who we are or where we come from is one of the best messages that Disney has to offer.
Zootopia
A Disney movie that has a similar takeaway to Tarzan (and also involves a lot of animals) is Zootopia. The main premise of the movie is that even though all the animals have become “civilized,” there are still prejudices against the different species. Prey still believe that predators are dangerous and should not be trusted, and predators believe that prey are meek and unimportant.
In Zootopia, Judy assumes that because Nick is a fox, he is sneaky and untrustworthy, and Nick assumes that because Judy is a bunny, she can be easily pushed around. However, by the end of the movie, they both prove to each other and the rest of the characters that they are more than just their stereotypes and can coexist in peace.
The message that no one should be judged based on their history, background, or upbringing is a powerful one. Just because someone is raised in a certain environment or comes from a specific group does not mean that they should automatically be associated with certain stereotypes.
The Sword in the Stone
Sticking with the classic Disney movie genre, The Sword in the Stone is another well-known story (and very underrated, in my opinion). The tale of young Arthur successfully pulling the sword out of the stone when so many strong men were unable to do so is one that gives many people hope that they too can accomplish goals others don’t think they are capable of. The Sword in the Stone has one of the best Disney movie messages because it is an important reminder to never underestimate someone’s abilities.
Arthur’s father and older brothers do not trust him with more than the most basic tasks, and they still don’t believe he will be able to handle even these, so they are completely shocked when Arthur proves to everyone that he can pull the sword out of the stone.
Even if someone’s looks, intelligence, or personality make them appear incapable of handling something, it’s important to never assume that. They could very well have other hidden traits that make them perfect for the job, and the extent of their skills, knowledge, and determination could end up surprising everyone.
Encanto
One of Disney's newer films, Encanto, shares the important message that every person has unique gifts and talents, and even if they do not feel special compared to others, they are still worthwhile and can come in handy when least expected. When Mirabel is not blessed with an extraordinary gift like the rest of her family, she feels that she cannot measure up to her sisters and cousins and is not needed. However, when things in her family start to break down, Mirabel is the one who is able to save them.
Because she is ordinary and is not consumed with any amazing abilities, she is able to see the cracks that begin to form in their foundation when no one else does, and that turns out to be the key to fixing them. The message that Encanto provides is a powerful one, as it is a necessary reminder that even though there will always be people who are better at something, each individual's skillsets play an essential role in their families and communities.
Toy Story
In addition to the animated films that come from Walt Disney Animation Studios, there are several Disney-Pixar movies that teach important lessons as well. Toy Story, the first film to be created and released by Disney-Pixar, is one of those highest on the list for movies with the best messages.
At first glance, Toy Story does not appear to have an obvious takeaway. It’s a fun story about a cowboy and space ranger who have to learn how to get along and work together when they’re thrown into a difficult situation. However, one of the best messages to come out of the movie is that people can love different things for different reasons.
Andy adores Woody because he was one of his first toys. When Andy receives Buzz Lightyear as a birthday present, he immediately becomes so excited about his new shiny toy, and Woody feels like he’s being neglected. After Woody and Buzz get left behind at the gas station, Woody believes that Andy only cares if Buzz comes home. He doesn’t understand that Andy is worried about both him and Buzz coming back safely, and he just assumes that Buzz is more important to Andy.
It’s an important reminder that while someone may find new people or activities to be passionate about, it doesn’t mean they don’t still love the things they used to, and they will still have a place in their heart for both.
You can see the beloved Toy Story characters come alive at Disneyland's Pixar Pier! Read more about all the land has to offer in our guide to Pixar Pier, including details about attractions and dining reviews.
Inside Out
The best message that comes from the Disney-Pixar movie Inside Out is clearly stated near the end of the film: in order to experience joy, you need to first experience sadness. As the main character Riley struggles with the challenges of moving, friendships, and growing up, Joy is dedicated to making sure she is always happy and doesn’t experience any negative emotions. This plan backfires when Joy and Sadness attempt to save Riley’s core memories and can’t find their way back to headquarters. The other emotions do their best to help Riley feel joy, but they only end up making her feel worse.
When Joy finally returns to headquarters, she can’t do anything to get Riley out of the numb state she’s in. Ultimately, Sadness is the one who is able to make Riley feel happy again, and the emotions learn that they are all important and need to work together to help Riley grow. This lesson can be challenging to accept, but it’s one of the best messages Disney movies have to offer. While experiencing negative emotions never feels great, sadness, anger, fear and disgust are necessary to ensure the joy that comes after is meaningful.
Inside Out is going to have a sequel, which we will announce more about as details appear. To read more about future attractions, shows, and lands, be sure to check out our guide to rides and additions coming to to Disneyland and new rides at Walt Disney World.
Finding Nemo
Disney movies focus on different kinds of relationships, with a particular emphasis on romances and friendships. However, there are a few that look at another special type of bond—that of a parent and their child—and those movies can have some of the best messages. One such film is Disney-Pixar's Finding Nemo, where the main plot of the film is centered around Nemo and his dad Marlin. When Nemo becomes angry with Marlin for preventing him from experiencing new things, he is suddenly separated from him, and both of their worlds are turned upside down.
This movie depicts a devoted parent doing everything in his power to help his child, as Marlin makes his way across the entire ocean searching for Nemo. While they both meet several new friends along the way, the message of the movie is clear: the bond of a parent and their child is stronger than any other. When Marlin and Nemo are finally reunited, they have both realized that although they may not agree on everything, they will always love and fight for each other.
You can experience scenes from Finding Nemo in the Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage at Disneyland. Read more about the attractions at Disneyland in our guide, including tips and what to expect.
Monster's Inc.
Many people struggle with the fear of the unknown, which is why one of the best Disney movie messages can be found in Disney-Pixar's Monster's Inc. At the beginning of the movie, Mike, Sulley, and the rest of the monster world know very little about people or the human world, except that their screams keep their city running. They have used the human world only as a tool to provide the monster world with electricity and have not ever attempted to learn more about humans.
When Boo comes into their lives, and they have the chance to spend time with her, they realize there is so much they do not know. By interacting with Boo for several days straight, they learn that human laughter is much more powerful than screams, and they are able to increase their electricity supply. Monster's Inc. offers up the impactful lesson that the unfamiliar may be frightening, but if people take a chance and explore their fears a bit further, they could learn that the unfamiliar is not so scary after all.
Although there are only 10 movies listed here, almost every Disney movie has a great message. Are there any that we missed? Let us know what Disney movies you think have the best messages!
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