Top 10 Disney Movies That Are Perfect for Adults

“Encanto” is a great watch for young audiences thanks to its colorful palette and catchy songs. But the songs also contain deeper themes of loneliness, generational trauma, and the pressures of adapting. These complement the story’s overall message of accepting people for who they are, no matter how “special”... or ordinary they might be. Adults will recognize the big message of breaking generational trauma, something many of us are currently taking it upon ourselves to do. Meanwhile, the film’s soundtrack embraces Hispanic culture to the fullest, warmly inviting viewers into Columbian life and culture. While “Encanto” does have fantastical elements like other Disney movies, adults can spot the symbolism easily and see themselves within the characters through their various stages of life.

There’s arguably no Disney animated film with darker material than this one, which makes it suitable for older audiences. Remember when Frollo tries to drop baby Quasimodo in a well? Quasimodo’s story continues to be wracked with tribulations as he grows up, facing isolation from the rest of the world. Older viewers can understand how it feels to be left out, especially when a person simply wants to be accepted. Adults are also better placed to appreciate “Notre Dame’s” mature themes of justice and fighting the evils of lust. As children, we’re afraid of Frollo’s general demeanor; as adults, we know just how fiendish he truly is. It’s no wonder the impact of the villain’s defeat and Quasi’s acceptance into society brings such a strong feeling of catharsis.

While “Coco” has young Miguel at its center, remembering past family members is a lesson better suited for those with greater life experience. It also appeals to the naivete and optimism many people lose as the years go by. Miguel’s pursuit of his passion for music encourages his close ones to think beyond their habitual way of life, injecting their family with a lot more love and laughter by the film’s end. Of course, there’s the additional theme of dealing with regret, as Miguel’s ancestor Hector comes to terms with his untimely demise. The movie wraps all the fun of a Mexican fiesta with hard-hitting questions about life, death, and what it means to have an enduring legacy.

No matter how old you are, slow-talking sloths at a DMV office will always be funny. Underneath all the humor, though, “Zootopia” delivers a genuine lesson about the dangers of prejudice, exclusion, and unchecked power, as well as the importance of tolerance. The unfair judgment of predators – along with the palpable political tensions in Zootopia – paint a pretty real picture. The film is designed to be thought-provoking to viewers, as we see a deeper side of each of the characters. Fortunately, Nick and Judy’s perfect chemistry and regular jokes prevent “Zootopia” from becoming too morbid. Still, grown-ups will finish the film feeling just as moved as they are entertained.

Chances are, adults watching “Toy Story 3” were kids back when the first two movies were released. Because of this, the film’s topic of transitioning from one chapter of life into another hits close to home. Woody and the gang’s mission to return to their owner is easy to root for, but this is the film’s way of preparing us for the big goodbye. “Toy Story 3” is a heartwarming tearjerker for balancing both nostalgia and maturity at the same time. Just like Andy, everybody has to grow up someday, which means moving on in some way. Goodbyes are also inevitable, and watching Woody bid farewell to Andy is as real as it gets.

It’s hard to understand what goes inside someone’s mind. “Inside Out” seeks to represent the many layers of a person’s emotions and how they might inform their decision-making process. Sure, there are some moments of comedy the kids might appreciate a bit more, like the over-the-top mannerisms of Joy, Sadness, Disgust, Fear, and Anger. But we’ve all been where Riley is at some point. Much like her, the average viewer can recall what it’s like when big changes happen in their lives. Meanwhile, parents can be reminded what it was like to be Riley’s age and how it’s sometimes difficult to express thoughts and feelings to grown-ups. “Inside Out’s” depiction of a person’s emotional depth is a nice reminder about the importance of empathy.

It’s easy to get wrapped up in the lighter side of “The Lion King.” Songs like “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King” and “Hakuna Matata” throw a warm, rose-colored haze over everything. That said, the film is heavy with realistic struggles of depression, envy, and dealing with the reality of death. Simba is forced to confront the consequences of his actions, both at a young age and as a fully grown lion. Although his journey is sidestepped by his time running away from his worries, “The Lion King” is ultimately about taking responsibility and learning from the past. There’s also the gorgeously animated backdrop of Africa and Hans Zimmer’s magnificent soundtrack that will capture anyone’s attention.

Pixar has always prided itself on carrying a strong story with an equally moving message. “WALL-E” might seem more like a love story to younger audiences, but grown-ups will get references to the dangers of harmful human impact on the environment. Through the eyes of the protagonist, we see the earth after it’s ravaged by mankind’s neglect. But there’s also a definite sense of hope, as WALL-E and EVE’s adventure ends up giving people another chance to start over. With the power of compassion and teamwork, the characters prove that even a dystopian future can be overcome. Plus, yeah, we’ll admit it: there’s just something heartwarming about watching a pair of robots fall in love.

On the face of it, a movie about an old man, a child, and a flying house sounds pretty slapstick. But the magic of storytelling pushes “Up” to the highest level of success. The opening is all the reminder viewers need that this is a solid tale of loss, grief, and trying to move on. One half of an older couple passing is a unique kind of hurt and it’s represented so perfectly. More than that, Carl and Russell’s unlikely dynamic is a winning formula for their personal growth. As Carl learns, having a child around can provide a much-needed perspective that adults otherwise overlook. “Up” teaches viewers that getting older doesn’t mean giving up, but preparing yourself for the next big adventure.

Disney took a stab at a father-son story with “A Goofy Movie,” which remains memorable in its own right. But “Finding Nemo” is where the challenges of being a parent are truly represented. Clownfish Marlin’s journey to bring his son back appeals to younger and older audiences. While kids are charmed by the quirky characters, adults see this for what it is: a single parent whose child has gone missing. Parents immediately sympathize with Marlin’s overprotectiveness and, along the way, they too might just learn an important lesson. It’s healthy to give children a little space and freedom. Who knew a film about fish could be such a perfect template for parenthood?