Disney Pixar Animation

“The Emperor’s New Groove”

2000s animated comedy, “The Emperor’s New Groove” is a goofy, slapstick classic that will grab the attention of younger viewers as well as holding the interests of older viewers as well. 

“The Emperor’s New Groove” is a personal favorite of mine. I was introduced to this movie by my lovely step mom and have loved it ever since. Not only is this movie just generally entertaining, but it also has wonderful characters with lots of personality, as well as a fun story line that will keep audiences of all ages entertained throughout the entire duration of the film. 

“Tangled”

“Tangled” was released at the peak of the class of 2023’s childhood in 2010. One of my favorite Disney movies from childhood, “Tangled” puts a twist on the classic story of Rapunzel. In this version, Rapunzel is a strong young woman, with a chameleon side kick, who would do nearly anything to be able to see the floating lights. 

This movie is truly amazing, featuring a group of lovable characters, beautiful songs that define the tone of the movie, and some incredible and bright animation. If you haven’t seen “Tangled” you’re truly missing out, but if you have you would know just how fun this movie is. It’s the perfect childhood classic that never fails to fill viewers with that warm, fuzzy feeling.

“Tinkerbell”

Another one of my all time favorites, Disney’s “Tinkerbell” series is a wonderful collection of movies that will never fail to bring magic into people’s lives. Technically a spin off of Peter Pan, “Tinkerbell” is fittingly named after, and focuses on everyone’s favorite fairy. 

I may be biased because I watched the “Tinkerbell” movies every single day, but they are truly a staple in the collection of movies from the class of 2023’s childhood. Featuring wonderful characters, whimsical music, and an overall fun story, the “Tinkerbell” series is a perfect series to remind viewers of simpler times. 

“Peter Pan”

A companion to the “Tinkerbell” series, “Peter Pan” is a true childhood classic. Released in 1953, “Peter Pan” is certainly a movie from before our time, but still manages to grasp the ever present want to remain a kid for as long as possible. 

Neverland is the perfect place to revisit as senior year comes to a close, giving the graduating class one last chance to enjoy their childhood before they go out into the world as adults. 

“Cars”

Starring Owen Wilson, “Cars” is an all time classic that will wow young audiences at the first sight. Although the characters are just cars, they still manage to have dynamic personalities and creative character design. Featuring everyone’s favorite race car Lightning McQueen, “Cars” is a memorable movie that would make a perfect, nostalgic closer to the school year. 

“Meet The Robinsons”

Another personal favorite of mine, particularly for its futuristic design and goofy characters, “Meet The Robinsons” is a family centric movie with a twist. I have loved this movie ever since I was little, it’s funny, creative, and brings back bright memories from my childhood. 

“Meet The Robinsons” is a perfect childhood classic, featuring funny moments such as “I have a big head and little arms”. Honestly, it’s a perfect movie to close out the school year. It would fit perfectly into a movie marathon, but would also hold up well on its own too. 

“Princess and The Frog”

Released in 2009, “The Princess and The Frog” is another Disney twist on a classic story. Featuring the first ever black Disney princess, this movie was a milestone not only for the mouse house but also for young girls across the world. Taking place in the heart of New Orleans, this movie features a strong story about an independent young woman who’s really just trying to make her way in the world. 

As any other little girl was, I was a huge fan of the Disney Princess franchise, and “The Princess and The Frog” only added to that obsession. Even now, I adore Tiana’s bold and independent personality. In addition, I have always loved the multitude of animal sidekicks she picks up along her journey. Overall, this is an iconic film that will stand the test of time. 

“The Lion King”

Though “The Lion King” was never my favorite movie as a kid, I can completely understand why it has become such a staple film in so many households. Another classic family oriented movie, “The Lion King” follows a young lion cub and the treacherous journey he goes through to become king. This movie is an emotional rollercoaster, and often teaches kids a lesson about the life cycle. Though heartbreaking at times, this is a perfect movie to add to a senior-centric movie marathon in order to pull out the tears and bring up all the hard hitting emotions that come with graduating high school. 

“The Little Mermaid”

An 80s classic, and another addition to the neverending list of Disney Princess movies, “The Little Mermaid” is a childhood favorite of mine. I had a copy of this movie on VHS, and often forced my older brother to let me watch it instead of his silly boy movies. “The Little Mermaid” made itself a household name beginning in the 80s, but has seemingly stuck with young audiences throughout the years. Now earning itself a live action adaptation, this movie is filled with magical settings, a sweet love story, and some incredible music to sing along to. 

“Mulan”

Another example of an independent Disney Princess, “Mulan” tells a tale of a young girl who goes to war in order to protect her father. Not only is this movie an iconic depiction of a female hero, but it’s also a wonderful story about family and love. “Mulan” is funny, sweet, and action filled. It’s essentially the perfect princess story wrapped up with a little bow. 

“Up”

An introduction to the idea of death, but also the idea of adventure, “Up” is a 2009 Pixar film that follows a grumpy old man and a goofy boy scout through their misadventures in the sky. “Up” is heartbreaking and heartwarming all at the same time. It’s certainly the perfect movie to get viewers in their feels just as high school comes to a close. 

“Lady and The Tramp”

Though I’m not the biggest fan of “Lady and the Tramp”, I can certainly appreciate the nostalgia it beholds. A sweet story about dogs falling in love, an iconic scene featuring spaghetti that has been recreated a thousand times, and some very lovable characters all come together to make a lovely animated movie to entertain the kiddos. 

“Beauty and The Beast”

One of my absolute favorite movies as a child, “Beauty and the Beast” is a whimsical tale about a young woman and her unpredictable love story. Not only is this movie a childhood favorite of mine, but it was also the inspiration behind this year’s prom theme. Overall, “Beauty and the Beast” is the perfect film to close out senior year, reminding many of us of our childhoods as well as senior prom, and this creating a full circle moment. 

“Lilo and Stitch”

“Lilo and Stitch” down to its core is a movie about family and acceptance. A young girl and her older sister adopt a pet alien, which leads to a bunch of wacky misadventures across the universe. This movie holds a very special place in my heart, as well as the hearts of many other early 2000s kids. 

“Wall-E”

The concept of “Wall-E” really freaked me out as a little kid, but the movie teaches an important lesson about taking care of our planet. Not only is this movie a sweet story about a lonely little robot, but it also teaches kids how important it is to take care of your things. I wholeheartedly love “Wall-E” and all the funny little creatures that this movie features, and I strongly recommend it to anyone who loves adorable, but not very talkable characters. 

“Finding Nemo”

“Finding Nemo” is arguably one of the most iconic children’s movies of the early 2000s. It is easily the movie that defines my generation, and for good reasons. “Finding Nemo” is a heartwarming story about family and loss, as well as including themes of adventure. It’s fun, exciting, and will occupy audiences of all ages. 

“Bolt”

If I’m being completely honest, I’ve only seen “Bolt” once, but what I can tell you is that this movie is sweet, adventurous, and full of suspense. It is essentially the good version of the DC Super Pets movie that came out this year.