Magical Movies: The Dapper Danielle’s Top 10 Animated Disney Movies of All Time

If you’ve ever wanted to be a video game villain with a heart of gold, Wreck-It Ralph is the movie for you! Ralph, the misunderstood bad guy from the Fix-It Felix arcade game, just wants to be loved. And honestly? Same, Ralph. The whole movie is an ode to friendship, self-acceptance, and the joy of getting out of your comfort zone—plus, Vanellope von Schweetz is iconic and needs to be protected at all costs. With cameos from classic arcade characters and an incredibly fun storyline, this movie totally broke the mold. It’s got my heart, and I’m giving it the #10 spot because it’s an underrated gem.

Cue the 80s tunes, because Oliver & Company is a straight-up mood. Let’s be real: It’s hard not to sing “Why Should I Worry?” whenever you’re feeling particularly sassy. This movie is a reimagined version of Oliver Twist with a whole bunch of New York City street smarts, adorable dogs, and Billy Joel singing tunes. I grew up thinking that Dodger (the charismatic streetwise dog voiced by Billy Joel himself) was the coolest character on the planet, and honestly, I still do. It’s a fun and funky movie that doesn’t get nearly as much love as it deserves, but I’m here to correct that with a solid #9.

You’ve heard me say it before, and I’ll say it again: Mulan is the definition of badassery. Mulan doesn’t just save China—she reinvents what it means to be a hero. Whether it’s battling the Hun army or leading the charge in I’ll Make a Man Out of You, Mulan inspires us all to never let anything—be it tradition, gender norms, or an evil army—stop us from being the best version of ourselves. Plus, let’s not forget that Li Shang is a total heartthrob, and Mushu? The comic relief we never knew we needed. This one deserves all the love, and that’s why it’s coming in hot at #8.

Hercules is literally the most fun you’ll have with Greek mythology. With the best soundtrack in Disney history (don’t fight me on this), Hercules is a gloriously goofy and heartwarming adventure. From the catchy “Zero to Hero” to the uplifting “Go the Distance,” this film had me singing my heart out—and probably embarrassing myself in public. Megara is low-key the most relatable Disney character (snarky, independent, and secretly soft-hearted), and Hercules himself is just such a wholesome, muscle-bound goofball. If you don’t love Hercules, we can’t be friends. Simple as that.

Sometimes you just need a good, simple story. Winnie the Pooh (2011) is pure, unfiltered charm in its simplest form. The movie is like a hug for your soul—there’s something about Pooh and his pals in the Hundred Acre Wood that just brings peace to the heart. The animation style is soft and beautiful, the characters are endlessly lovable, and the gentle humor is perfect for a cozy movie night. Plus, if you’ve ever had a “how much honey is too much?” dilemma, you’ll totally relate to Pooh. It’s sweet, it’s calm, and it’s a reminder that sometimes the smallest moments bring the biggest happiness. “Oh, Bother!” – and that’s why this gem deserves the #6 spot.

Let’s just take a moment to appreciate the perfection that is Beauty and the Beast. This movie is a cultural touchstone that has everything: a strong, book-loving heroine, a misunderstood, cursed prince, talking furniture that definitely deserves their own spinoff, and some of the most iconic songs in the Disney catalog. “Be Our Guest,” anyone? And don’t even get me started on the romance. The way Belle looks at the Beast when he’s finally able to open up to her? I’m getting emotional just thinking about it. This is the movie that proved that true beauty is found on the inside—plus, who wouldn’t want to dance with their very own enchanted rose? This film belongs at #5 for sure.

Bippity boppity boo—Cinderella is the ultimate fairy tale. Sure, the whole “trapped in a stepmother’s house” plot may be a little dramatic, but let’s be real: Cinderella’s grace and perseverance make her the ultimate role model. Cinderella is where it all began for Disney Princesses (and for fairy godmothers in sparkly gowns), and no one can deny the magic of that famous pumpkin-turned-coach. The glass slipper, the ball, the singing mice—it’s a timeless classic. And who doesn’t want to be whisked away to a royal ball in a pumpkin carriage? Honestly, #4 feels like the perfect spot for this enchanting tale.

Yes, you read that right. The Lion King 1 ½ is a comedy masterpiece. This direct-to-video gem takes us on a hilarious journey through the eyes of Timon and Pumbaa, showing us what really happened behind the scenes of The Lion King. It’s essentially a buddy comedy, but with songs, zany humor, and a fabulous tribute to the original movie’s events. If you haven’t seen it, do yourself a favor and get ready to laugh until you can’t breathe. It’s a hilarious and heartwarming alternate universe that completely holds up next to its predecessor. Hakuna Matata forever, my friends.

Lilo & Stitch is the heart and soul of family, found in the most unexpected places. From Stitch’s chaotic antics to Lilo’s unique worldview (she’s the original quirky girl), this movie is an absolute treasure. The Hawaiian setting, the lovable characters, and the incredibly underrated soundtrack (let’s talk about “Aloha Oe” for a second) are just the icing on the cake. But what really makes this movie soar is its message about family. “Ohana means family” is not just a cute quote; it’s a universal truth that we can all get behind. Stitch may be an alien, but he’s the best thing that ever happened to Lilo (and to all of us). This movie earns its well-deserved spot at #2.

And the number one spot goes to the undisputed queen of Disney Princesses: Tiana. The Princess and the Frog is hands down my favorite animated Disney movie of all time. Tiana is a hardworking, ambitious woman who deserves all the love (and beignets). This film brings the magic of New Orleans to life with a stunning soundtrack, unforgettable characters (shoutout to Ray the firefly and Dr. Facilier), and a deeply empowering story. Plus, the beautiful blend of fairy-tale magic and real-world hustle speaks to my millennial soul. The message of working hard for your dreams—and that sometimes, the best things in life come when you least expect them—is why this movie holds such a special place in my heart. Tiana for life.