10 Recent Disney Films That Are Actually Much Better Than Their Initial Receptions

Disney is a true entertainment juggernaut that has built a reputation for producing some of the best films of all time, from live action to timeless animated classics. From spelling fairy tales to modern versions of whimsical stories, It’s rare for a Disney film not to take off straight from release to critical acclaim and box office success.. However, over the past decade, there have been some Disney releases that haven’t received the same fanfare as their iconic franchises, receiving a mixed reception when first introduced to the public.

Some of this can be attributed to the film itself, but most of it can be attributed to the huge expectations and intense comparisons of Disney’s all-time best films, which cast an unfair shadow on these recent releases. Films like Ralph Breaks the Internetand Forward may have received mixed reviews, but they still retain all the weight of a Disney classicshowing an incredible narrative with exciting and fun themes. These Disney films feature the same intriguing characters and stellar visuals as their more popular counterparts and should be much more celebrated and appreciated than their initial reviews suggest.

10

Desire (2023)

Starring Ariana DeBose and Chris Pine

In another magical Disney story, the musical fantasy film To wish tells the story of a 17-year-old girl named Asha, voiced by Ariana DeBose. The plot follows her story as Asha makes a wish on a star so powerful that it is granted by an unstoppable ball of energy. called Star that triggers a magical adventure. It combines some of the best elements of modern Disney and Disney of old to create a moving story that also features some action, as Asha must face her kingdom’s devious emperor, Magnifico.

To wish featured a cast of talented actors who lent their skills and voices to the film, such as DeBose, Chris Pine, and Evan Peters. Although it was initially criticized for having a predictable plot without the usual Disney flair, still has a charming narrative that unfolds well at a measured and intriguing pace with a memorable cast of characters. The film’s seriousness and relatively simple plot may have initially been derogatory, but over time, it is this premise, with the basics done excellently, that makes it such a brilliant film and one that deserves more appreciation.

9

Light Year (2022)

Starring Chris Evans and Keke Palmer

In a film where Disney took a calculated risk, Light year is a spin-off of one of its most popular franchises of all time (in Toy Story), showing the origins and history of one of its main stars, Buzz Lightyear. The film is presented exclusively as a “film within a film”, as follows the titular Buzz as he travels on an intergalactic mission with a new crew who must battle the evil Zurg and his menacing army of robots. The spin-off has an intriguing premise and departs from its predecessor, both in terms of narrative and animation style.

In another departure from the original, Buzz is not voiced by the legendary Tim Allen as in the main franchise, but instead Chris Evans takes on the role of the Space Ranger. Critics have widely debated whether Light year works as a standalone film or whether it’s a character and an idea that just shines through in a larger framework surrounded by the usual cast of characters. Although there was some initial skepticism, the in-depth exploration of a main character from one of Disney’s most successful film series was considered a success, with its compelling performances and heroic storyline.

8

Strange World (2022)

Starring Jake Gyllenhall and Dennis Quaid

Strange World is a science fiction adventure film that follows a family of explorers with a legendary reputation who must travel to a mystical land called Avalonia, filled with unexplored creatures and habitats. Features an ensemble cast including Dennis Quaid and Jake Gyllenhaal as the family’s father and sonas well as Jaboukie Young-White and Lucy Liu. The story is enriched by generational family dynamics and interpersonal relationships that truly complete and elevate the narrative.

Although it struggled to make an impact at the box office due to a lack of substantial marketing, it still impresses with its imaginative story and beautifully constructed and animated creative world. Strange World is a film that has a particular focus on representation and social commentarybringing together a diverse cast of characters who delve into political and environmental themes throughout the film. The same message that may seem overwrought to some viewers may well be its greatest strength, as it toes the fine line between preaching and telling a complex, layered story.

7

Strange Magic (2015)

Starring Alan Cumming and Evan Rachel Wood

Although Disney is predominantly known for its original classics, it can still draw inspiration from one of the greatest playwrights of all time, William Shakespeare. Strange Magic is a musical fantasy based on a story by George Lucas (Star Wars) that was inspired by A Midsummer Night’s Dreamwhich follows the ruler of the Dark Forest, the Swamp King, and Marianne, a fire fairy princess. The Bog King hates love, but begins to change his mind when he meets the captivating princess in a unique story that features lots of twists and covers of modern pop songs.

Lucas has been working on the development of this project for 15 years like a film created for his three daughters, and it feels like a film that took so much dedication. Although the film did not receive good reviews, with criticism of the song choices and formulaic narrative, the film overall is a high-energy, family-friendly work, beautifully directed with a heartfelt and emotional story. While it isn’t as celebrated as many of Disney’s more conventional films, its unusual and quirky elements that combine humor, music, and fantasy may be the aspects that most elevate it.

6

Cars 3 (2017)

Starring Owen Wilson and Cristela Alonzo

Directed by Brian Fee in his directorial debut, the iconic pilot Lightning McQueen returns in the third film of the highly successful series Cars franchise. In this film, McQueen, who, after two previous cinematic appearances, is now a track veteran, must prove that he can handle the younger newcomers with his advanced technology and beat them at their own game. The incredible Owen Wilson reprises his role as the distinctive voice of McQueen, as the cast combines new and returning characters to create a unique story about legacy and adaptation.

However Cars 3 could initially be considered just another big-budget ‘money grab’ sequel to a massive franchise, it could be the most inventive and emotional film in the series. As Lightning McQueen’s age and skill begin to wane, there are moments of true poignancy and emotion as he struggles with the passing of time and the passing of the torch to a new generation of cars he helped inspire. The voice acting is stellar across the cast, as it accurately conveys the character development and dark moments that help punctuate the usual exciting racing sequences and entertaining plot.

5

Planes: Fire and Rescue (2014)

Starring Dane Cook and Stacy Keach

Written and directed by Bobs Gannaway, Airplanes: Fire and Rescue is a continuation of Airplanes (2013), which itself is a spin-off of the incredibly successful Cars franchise. In this edition, the main character, Dusty Crophopper, negotiates races to fight wildfires after being tasked with helping Piston Peak National Parkwhich produces beautiful, picturesque and lively landscapes. The film deftly explores Dusty’s decision to change roles after he discovers his gearbox is damaged and the implications this has on his own life and ambitions.

A spin-off sequel may seem like a project far removed from the grandeur it began with, but nothing could be further from the truth. The cast of Airplanes: Fire and Rescue does an excellent job, from the main characters to the secondary rolesand the plot and character development create an uplifting and positive message. The film has been criticized for its formulaic and relatively safe approach to its story, and while it doesn’t exactly break new ground, it nails the basics, which is sometimes the hardest thing to do, and creates a fun, family-friendly film.

4

The Good Dinosaur (2015)

Starring Raymond Ochoa and Jack Bright

In his feature directorial debut, director Peter Sohn shows an unusually composed and mature hand in the prehistoric adventure The Good Dinosaur. The film’s plot explores an alternate timeline of history where some dinosaurs did not become extinct.exploring the relationship between a young Apatosaurus named Arlo, who lives on a farm, and his human friend Spot. Once again, featuring a cast that voices the characters perfectly with all the charm and invention in a story that truly touches the heart.

Sometimes simply the timing of a film’s release can play the biggest role in its success, and unfortunately, it was released the same year as From the inside outwhich became one of Disney’s biggest hits in recent years. In comparison, The Good Dinosaur seemed to discourage the audience during its execution; although it offered a rich story about friendship and self-discovery, it failed to resonate and gain critical acclaim. Although it is not a grand film in any respect, it is a quieter and more reflective film that rewards those who like simple, quality narratives and beautifully animated characters.

3

Ralph Breaks the Internet (2018)

Starring John C. Reilly and Sarah Silverman

Ralph Breaks the Internet is the sequel to the mega-success Wreck-It Ralphonce again directed by Rich Moore with help, this time from Phil Johnston. The sequel follows Ralph and his friend Vanellope von Schweetzas as they travel the Internet to find a replacement steering wheel. to Vanellope’s Sugar Rush game to prevent Mr. Litawk, the arcade owner, from destroying the game. All voice actors reprise their roles, with John C. Reilly, Sarah Silverman and Ed O’Neill picking up where they left off, creating an intricate and heartfelt tapestry of stories.

While there is generally a preconceived notion that it is difficult for a sequel to live up to the original in mainstream cinema, Disney appears to have the structure and formula to produce some of the best sequels of all time. While some of the jokes and meta-references could be considered as potentially not having a long shelf life, Ralph Breaks the Internet does a great job of combining nostalgia and self-awareness with genuine questions of identity and values. The film combines several intricate subplots that, combined with its humor and action sequences, create a compelling and underrated work.

2

Elementary (2023)

Starring Leah Lewis and Mamoudou Athie

Starring Leah Lewis Mamoudou Athie and Ronnie del Carmen as some of the main voices Elementary is a unique blend of romance, comedy and drama directed by Peter Sohn (The Good Dinosaur). It is set in a place where fire, water, earth and air coexist peacefully.focusing mainly on the anthropomorphic relationship between the fire element Ember Lumen and the water element Wade Ripple, with the aim of saving a local store. The film does an excellent job of giving life and personality to the unusual characters, and the world built around them is exceptionally done.

Reviews for the film were quite harsh upon initial release, with widespread belief that the film’s themes were too heavy and that the story failed to capture Disney’s usual magic. Although the film has a deeper message and greater ambitions for its plotthe film does what Disney does best by providing a layered emotional narrative told in a unique way, with stunning visuals and memorable characters. Upon initial reception, Elementary has gained new appreciation, with a general consensus that it is one of Disney’s most popular films in recent years.

1

Onward (2020)

Starring Tom Holland and Chris Pratt

Directed by the capable hands of Dan Scanlon (Monsters University), Forward is a fantasy adventure film starring Tom Holland and Chris Pratt, who voice the lead roles of two elf brothers named Ian and Barley Lightfoot. Follow the two brothers as they embark on a journey to recover a powerful artifact that will give them the power to revive their deceased father for just twenty-four hours. The two lead stars bring a unique compassion and bond to their roles that truly elevates but also powerfully grounds the narrative, exploring complex themes of family, loss and memories.

Forward was actually hampered upon its release due to issues associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, so it went largely unnoticed when it was released. The film is firmly based on the chemistry between Holland and Prattwhich is exceptional from start to finish, combined with the gripping story, epic world-building, and intense dialogue that makes for a cohesive Disney classic. It builds to an incredible final ten minutes that are poignant, poignant, and beautiful all at the same time, producing one of the best Disney films in modern times that got off to a slow start upon release.