10. Aladdin (1992)

Here we are at the top 10 Disney films ever. This is the best of the best, all of which have outdone every standard and will stand the test of time for years to come. And Aladdin is one film that has certainly done both of those things. The story of the magical tale from rags to riches was an instant classic. The soundtrack is filled with one hit after another that are so full of energy and life it is unbelievable.

The greatest characteristic of this film had to be Robin William’s performance as the infinite Genie, in which there is virtually no limits as to what dreams he can make come true. Aladdin is amazing in every sense of the word – from the devilish villain to the electrifying animation that contributed to this fast yet perfectly paced film of comedy and love. Aladdin is one of very few Disney movies where every note was hit just right.

9. Wreck-It Ralph (2012)

I feel that I might have to make a case for Wreck-It Ralph so high on the list. Although based on contemporary technologies such as video games, something reserved for children of today, I believe that Wreck-It Ralph had created one of the best character driven stories of depth and inner-investigation in years.

We are introduced to a character named Ralph who we have not necessarily seen before. Disgruntled and jaded with a life that is destined to go on forever with no chance of appreciation, Wreck-It Ralph portrays a story that is realistic to all of us. Life may not seem glamorous at times so you have to go out and prove yourself. It’s not about what you have or earn that makes you great, but who you truly are: your character.

With a wonderful sidekick, Vanellope, to join him (made emotionally complex a great Sarah Silverman performance), Ralph learns about being “a somebody.” Wreck-It Ralph deserves recognition as a phenomenal feat storytelling from Disney that rivals and surpasses all but a few Pixar films. Certainly cheated of its Oscar win.

8. Cinderella (1950)

The princess stories of princess stories is here in Cinderella. If you do not know the story of Cinderella and her race to beat the clock before midnight, then you might have to adjust your priorities in life. Cinderella deserves a top 10 spot not only because of its great charm, spirit, and lovable main heroine, but because of its place in popular culture as an iconic symbol of chasing your dreams and realising your fantasies.

This film has given us so many famous images and characters such as The Ugly Stepsisters, the Fairy Godmother, and the Pumpkin carriage. Praised by critics, fans, and pretty much everyone alive since its first release, Cinderella continues to enchant newer generations.

7. The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh (1977)

Here is a film that relates to at least one part of everyone’s childhood in one way or another. The imagination, nostalgia, and emotion of The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh explores the long-gone simplicity and innocence of being a kid. Like I mentioned before, all these top films explore bits and pieces of our lives and this film is one of the best in doing such a thing.

The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh gives us a sense of longing for the time when we were naïve about the world, and like Pooh and friends, we often misinterpreted everyday life as we grew and learned. Our minds were led by something other than logic and reason, and that was okay.

6. Peter Pan (1953)

Here is another film about the wonders of childhood. The reason Peter Pan works so well is not only due to its timeless quality and art, but because it’s about a character who appeals to everyone who wishes they can just stop life and escape reality for a while. Escapism, after all, is one of the most attractive qualities inherent to movies.

What makes Disney films, shows, and theme parks so popular to people of all ages is that Disney has allowed them to take a few minutes from the stresses of work and school and enjoy something positive and uplifting. Peter Pan symbolises this idea entirely. Remember when I asked what makes a movie last decades after release? This is another one of those reasons. What does the story say or do for the audience? Here, Peter Pan is a mascot for hope that things can get better.