Top 10 Live-Action Disney Movies

Who doesn’t love a good animal story – especially when those animals are given voice by the likes of Sally Field, Michael J. Fox and Don Ameche? In “Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey,” two dogs and a cat travel many miles to be reunited with their beloved human family. The film is equal parts adventure, humor and charm – and all together it’s a winning combination.

Getting shipwrecked and chased by bloodthirsty pirates was never as much fun as it was in “Swiss Family Robinson.” Sure, there’s the usual family friction – especially when a young lady shows up and strikes the fancy of the two older brothers. But there’s also the tree house of every kid’s dreams, ostrich rides, and enough fun and adventure to satisfy even the pickiest viewer.

Pixar’s John Lasseter has stated that “Toy Story” would’ve never come to be without “Tron” – and that’s reason enough to include this groundbreaking live action and CGI film here. But the fact is, “Tron” is a pretty great science fiction film, period. Its exploration of computer-based imagery provides stunning visuals, and its story is engrossing and enjoyable. A cult film that has gained an incredible fan base over the years, it even inspired a sequel – “Tron: Legacy” – a full 28 years after its release.

Disney memorably brought Jules Verne’s classic “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea” to the screen in 1954. An excellent and exciting adaptation of the novel, the film is especially remembered for its thrilling giant squid sequence. It also contains one of James Mason’s signature performances, as well as expert work from Kirk Douglas and Peter Lorre. While its special effects may not seem quite as realistic as today’s CGI-derived ones, the movie’s sense of wonder and excitement more than make up for this.

Animation and live action combine beautifully in “Bedknobs and Broomsticks,” a magical musical starring the incandescent Angela Lansbury. In the film, Lansbury plays an apprentice witch in wartime England whose magic helps keep the Nazis at bay. Underrated at the time of its release, Lansbury’s performance, the special effects and the sparkling score have won the flick many admirers in the years since.

The Muppets have had their ups and downs on the big screen, but this 2011 outing is first class all the way. It starts with an excellent premise: after a falling out, the Muppets reunite to save their old theater. Then, the creators fill it with snappy dialogue, lots of comic bits, catchy and tuneful songs, fun guest stars and, best of all, the Muppets just being themselves.

Rick Moranis got what is probably his best film role as a wacky scientist in the 1989 science-fiction comedy “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids.” As the title indicates, Moranis accidentally uses his newly developed shrink ray on his children – and the neighbor’s children as well. The expected fun and pandemonium ensue. Most people can predict many of the things that happen, but that’s okay: the film is sweet and funny, the special effects are great and the cast is winning. What’s not to like?

Denzel Washington turns in one of his best performances in “Remember the Titans.” As the black high school football coach trying to produce a winning team while fighting prejudice, he’s the solid anchor of this inspiring and uplifting film. The film attacks a difficult situation head on but with sensitivity, and the direction by Boaz Yakin brings out the strengths of both the cast and the script.

This fantasy flick introduced movie audiences to Johnny Depp’s memorably outrageous Captain Jack Sparrow – and they took him and the movie to their hearts. Terrifically funny, filled with swashbuckling action and loaded with choice bits, “The Curse of the Black Pearl” is about as enjoyable a movie as it’s possible to make. It’s even more fun than the Disney ride that inspired it – and that’s saying something.

Before we reveal our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions:
- “The Santa Clause” (1994)
- “The Parent Trap” (1961)
- “Old Yeller” (1957)
- “National Treasure” (2004)
- “Flight of the Navigator” (1986)

Generations of kids have grown up wishing they had someone in their lives like Mary Poppins. And why not? She may be a little tough on the outside, but she’s soft and cuddly on the inside. And she knows magic – real magic, even if she doesn’t call it that. The film’s seamless blend of live action and animation is still impressive half a century later, its classic score sparkles, and Julie Andrews’ Oscar-winning performance is irresistible. Altogether, that makes this film supercalifragiliciousexpialedocious.

Do you agree with our choices? What other live action Disney classics should we have put on this list? For more enthralling top 10s published daily, be sure to subscribe to WatchMojo.com.