Top 10 Disney Movies That Instantly Make You Happier
#10: “Moana” (2016)
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Let's start on the island of Motunui. Moana is the daughter of the chief and gets chosen by the ocean to restore the heart of Te Fiti. She has to make an incredible journey across the sea along with the mischievous demigod Maui. On the way, she finds her true purpose in life and we get to enjoy plenty of catchy tunes that don't leave our heads for days. Oh, and there's also a flamboyant crab that pays tribute to David Bowie with its fabulousness. “Moana” is the movie that’ll make you cry happy tears and perhaps even want to go on a little quest of your own.
#9: “The Lizzie McGuire Movie” (2003)
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This film was based on an uber-popular Disney Channel show that many millennials were obsessive about. In it, Lizzie McGuire goes on an unforgettable adventure to Rome where she is mistaken for a popular singer named Isabella. Lizzie has to work with Isabella’s partner Paolo to get ready for an award show, all while pretending she’s still just a regular girl who’s taking a tour of Rome with her class. This movie gave birth to an unforgettable soundtrack, along with a feel-good final song that will stay on repeat for the rest of our lives.
#8: “Ratatouille” (2007)
Are you a foodie with a passion for cooking? Then "Ratatouille" is a story for you. The movie follows a young rat named Remy who wants to become a chef just like his idol Gusteau. He ends up working at a restaurant and achieving his dream of making it all the way to the top of the culinary world. It’s not easy work, but Remy’s passion and talent for cooking is obvious. As you watch this one, make sure you have all the ingredients ready for the Ratatouille dish - you’ll be inspired to make it after you’re done.
#7: “Tangled” (2010)
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This movie takes us on a journey with a young woman who’s brave enough to chase her dreams. The story follows Rapunzel, who lives in an isolated tower with her so-called “mother,” a witch who actually kidnapped her at a young age. Wishing to learn more about the floating lanterns that mysteriously appear in the sky every year on her birthday, Rapunzel runs away with a charming thief named Flynn Rider. Along the way, she experiences the world for the first time, forms unique friendships, and falls in love. The movie has all the components of a feel-good film, complete with an inspiring soundtrack.
#6: “Hercules” (1997)
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We love a good mythic Greek hero, and Hercules definitely fits the bill. This demi-god is the son of Zeus, and he’s on a mission to become a true hero so he can join his father in Olympus. The movie is action-packed, but it still has time to follow Hercules as he awkwardly tries to charm his love interest, Megara. This is one of the funniest Disney movies ever made, with an iconic performance from James Woods as the eminently quotable villain, Hades. Ultimately, the film’s message is that being a hero has nothing to do with your physical strength - it's about selflessness, compassion, and helping others.
#5: “The Muppets” (2011)
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Imagine being the biggest superfan of the Muppets and getting to join them in a quest to save their theater from an evil oil magnate. That's precisely what "The Muppets" movie is all about. Walter – who is a Muppet himself – gets a chance to expose Tex Richman's plans to drill underneath the Muppets' theater. Together, they manage to defeat the bad guy and along the way, Walter realizes what truly matters in life. The movie teaches a timeless lesson about setting goals and making them happen with teamwork. In the words of Kermit, life is like a movie. Write your own ending!
#4: “A Goofy Movie” (1995)
Top 10 Movies That INSTANTLY Make You Happier
This one is for the angsty teens and their parents. Goofy’s 14-year-old son Max finds his father’s antics embarrassing and doesn't want to become anything like him. But when their father-son fishing trip becomes the journey of a lifetime, the two finally renew their bond and leave us with a tear-jerker happy ending. Max’s struggles navigating high school and dealing with a slightly eccentric parent are totally relatable. This movie has it all - a wacky family vacation gone wrong, adolescent drama and teenage love, and ultimately, an important life lesson learned.
#3: “Toy Story” (1995)
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Toys that come to life? Yes, please. “Toy Story” has earned its place in the history books as a Disney classic. Imagine being someone’s favorite toy and watching your human lose interest in you as he grows older. That’s what happens as Woody, Mr. Potato Head, Slinky Dog, and more welcome an oddly behaved newcomer to Andy’s room. “Toy Story” is about true friendships that come in all shapes and sizes. It’ll leave you digging out that old toy box and keeping an eye on your toy friends in the hope that they’ll come alive when you’re not around. It’s true Disney magic.
#2: “Mary Poppins” (1964)
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This one is an oldie, but it never goes out of style. No matter how old you are, you’ve heard of the magical nanny that is Mary Poppins. The story begins with two not-very-well-behaved children who need to find a new nanny. Soon, Mary Poppins arrives on the wind – but she’s not just any ordinary nanny. She flies in with a magical bag and adventures galore, along with songs you’ll be singing for days. It’s a heart-warming story of finding your imagination and embracing the child within, even in the toughest times. And we know that “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” will stay in your head on repeat!
Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.
“Monsters, Inc.” (2001)
In Disney, Even the Monsters Have Big Hearts
“Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl” (2003)
Captain Jack Sparrow Will Bring a Smile to Your Face
“Wreck-It-Ralph” (2012)
The Ultimate ‘Believe in Yourself’ Disney Movie
“Newsies” (1992)
All About Doing the Right Thing & Speaking Up
“Alice in Wonderland” (1951)
Let Your Imagination Soar
#1: “The Emperor’s New Groove” (2000)
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Emperor Kuzco is an arrogant and selfish protagonist who wants to destroy a village for his own personal gain. However, his plans are put to a halt when his power-hungry advisor Yzma poisons him and turns him into a llama. In this form, Kuzco must overcome his toxic personality and learn humility and teamwork. He even joins forces with one of the same villagers whose home he wanted to destroy. By the end of the journey, Kuzco turns from a self-absorbed ruler to a selfless and compassionate leader who's actually made some new friends.
Which Disney movie instantly lifts your mood? Let us know in the comments below!
