We have all seen the magic of Disney films. They capture a sense of awe and excitement in every motion picture with stunning animation and groundbreaking storytelling. To think that it all started with Mickey Mouse in the late 1920s is quite amazing. Now, it’s safe to assume that nearly every child born in the 90’s has seen a set of Disney movies that are still widely popular today, such as Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, and dozens more. With that said, popular titles will not be mentioned as this list primarily focuses on the films produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios that may have been overlooked or not mentioned, as much as the heavy hitters. Without further ado, here are the top five Disney movies you probably haven’t seen.

1. Oliver & Company: Released in 1988, Oliver & Company is a musical comedy that tells the story of Oliver, a homeless kitten who joins a gang of dogs to survive in the streets of New York City. On top of gorgeous animation and catchy pop- rock songs like “Why Should I Worry?,” Oliver & Company is a heartfelt story of comradery and bravery. Since Oliver and the gang roam the streets of New York City, they’re are sure to find adventure on every block. Not to mention there’s a hilarious Chihuahua named Tito who definitely steals the show. If that doesn’t convince you to watch this movie, I don’t know what will!

2. Tarzan: Tarzan is the story we all know: a man raised by apes. However, Disney’s version takes the original tale and makes it into a personal film of identity and what family really means. When Tarzan encounters other humans that arrive in the jungle, he starts to question whether he truly belongs with the gorilla family that raised him. The story takes the characters we love on lots of thrills, laughs, and unforgettable moments that Disney is known for. With great songs that play throughout the movie like “Two Worlds,” “Son of Man” and “You’ll Be In My Heart,” you will be singing louder than Tarzan’s chest-beating triumph and victory call.

3. Robin Hood: Based on the legend of Robin Hood, Disney decided to put a twist on this one. Instead of portraying the main characters as humans, they are all anthropomorphic animals with Robin Hood as a fox and Prince John as a lion. The story follows the adventures of Robin Hood, Little John, and the inhabitants of Nottingham as they fight against the excessive taxation of Prince John. Of course, it’s the witty and charming nature of Robin Hood that drives the film, but you can’t help but give credit to the spectacular voice acting and creativity behind this motion picture.

4. The Hunchback of Notre Dame: The Hunchback of Notre Dame centers on Quasimodo, the deformed bell-ringer of Notre Dame, and his struggle to gain acceptance into society. As one of Disney’s darkest films, the movie goes into themes such as infanticide, lust, damnation, sin, and even genocide. However, The Hunchback of
Notre Dame teaches a very important lesson: learning to accept who you are. Somehow, it manages to take all of those elements, mix them with great characters and one of the best soundtracks in a Disney motion picture, and make it into a compelling narrative that will stay with you even after the credits roll.

5. Pocahontas: This musical romantic-drama is inspired by the known history of the Native American woman Pocahontas and Englishman John Smith. Alan Menken, legendary composer and Disney veteran, really outdid himself with Pocahontas because he captures the very spirit of the movie with beautiful tracks like “Colors of the Wind” and “Farewell.” The narrative focuses on Pocahontas and John Smith, two individuals from different parts of the world that fall in love and have to deal with the consequences of the imminent clashes of their native groups. It’s an inspirational story that emphasizes respect and understanding of people and things we don’t know about. Pocahontas also has one of the most heart-wrenching endings in any Disney movie.

So what do you think? Have you seen any of the movies on the list? If not, then take a break from studying, pop some popcorn, and watch these amazing movies! As a precaution, you may want to bring a box of tissues with you because, well, it is Disney after all.