Unveiling Cinematic Treasures: Disney+’s Most Underrated Movies
When scrolling through Disney+, it’s tempting to settle on the platform’s biggest hitters—think Avatar: The Way of Water, Avengers: Endgame, or recent animated sagas. Yet behind the buzz, several outstanding films remain vastly underappreciated, often due to timing, niche appeal, or being overshadowed by cultural phenomena. Here are ten movies on Disney+ that deserve your attention and a well-deserved second wind on your watchlist.
Ron’s Gone Wrong
Ron’s Gone Wrong could have been a classic for today’s tech-savvy generation. Released during a period when many were hesitant to return to theaters, this animated story explores a world obsessed with personal robot companions. The protagonist, Barney, and his defective-yet-charming bot, Ron, anchor a narrative that’s both laugh-out-loud funny and sweetly authentic about friendship in the digital era. Despite a modest box office showing, its 82% Rotten Tomatoes score and remarkable voice cast (including Zach Galifianakis and Olivia Colman) make it a must-watch for fans of heart-before-hype animation.
Confessions of a Shopaholic
Labeled too quickly as a predictable romantic comedy, Confessions of a Shopaholic is far more than meets the eye. Based on the beloved Sophie Kinsella series, the film delivers biting humor and sharp social commentary about consumerism. Isla Fisher’s exhilarating performance is worth the runtime alone, supported by an ensemble including John Goodman, Joan Cusack, and Krysten Ritter. Overlooked on release, it now stands out as a comfort watch with surprising depth.
Anastasia
Animated features from the ’90s usually bring to mind staples like The Lion King or Aladdin, but Anastasia deserves a place beside those classics. Set in a rich alternate history, it follows its titular heroine on a sweeping quest of identity and destiny. Apart from being visually lush with memorable songs, Anastasia has earned its reputation as a critical darling and was even reimagined as a hit stage musical in recent years. Its presence on Disney+ is a rare treat for both new and nostalgic viewers.
Young Woman and the Sea
If you’re craving an inspiring true story, look no further than Young Woman and the Sea. Daisy Ridley, famed worldwide for her role as Rey, delivers a powerhouse performance as Gertrude Ederle, the first woman to swim the English Channel. Moving, meticulously crafted, and steeped in historical resonance, this biographical drama offers both an uplifting narrative and a showcase of Ridley’s evolution as a leading actress far beyond intergalactic adventure.
Atlantis: The Lost Empire
Among post-renaissance Disney animation, Atlantis: The Lost Empire has cultivated a cult audience over the years. The film’s unique dieselpunk aesthetic, mature storytelling, and ensemble cast of explorers searching for the legendary lost city make it a standout among early-2000s animation. With rich character design and thrilling adventure beats, Atlantis is perfect for fans who crave discovery, fantasy, and world-building far from the usual fairytale fare.
The Book of Life
The Book of Life suffers, paradoxically, from what followed it: Pixar’s blockbuster Coco. But this earlier celebration of Mexican folklore and the Day of the Dead holiday shouldn’t be missed. Its visually inventive style, heartfelt story about love and legacy, and a top-tier voice cast led by Diego Luna and Zoe Saldaña ensure it stands apart—not as a precursor, but as an essential watch in its own right.
The Little Mermaid (Live Action)
Remakes rarely escape comparison to their animated origins. The Little Mermaid live-action adaptation, though met with skepticism prior to release, deserves genuine recognition. Halle Bailey’s vocal performance, particularly her rendition of ‘Part of Your World,’ brings soaring new emotion to a beloved character. While debate over its budget and box office may persist, its enduring streaming popularity and Bailey’s star quality breathe new life into this waterside fairy tale.
The Great Mouse Detective
Overshadowed by Disney’s later hits, The Great Mouse Detective is nonetheless a delightful riff on the Sherlock Holmes mythos—this time in miniature. The film’s cleverness, strong mystery plotting, and charismatic characters helped revitalize Disney Animation during a more uncertain era. Today, it’s recognized by animation enthusiasts as a bridge between the studio’s past and future successes and is thoroughly deserving of rediscovery.
The Marvels
Despite being part of the famed Marvel Cinematic Universe, The Marvels didn’t get the recognition—or box office—one would expect from a direct sequel to a billion-dollar film. Targeted by online negativity before it had a chance to stand on its own, the movie still manages to deliver energetic action, vibrant chemistry between its leads, and fresh dynamics within the MCU. It’s a rewarding watch for anyone intrigued by the evolving landscape of superhero storytelling.
Put Cinema Curiosity to Good Use
Diving into the lesser-traveled corners of Disney+ can uncover original gems, breathing new appreciation into films once overshadowed or misunderstood. Each title on this list offers a unique reason to press play, whether you’re seeking laughter, nostalgia, or new perspectives on world-class storytelling.
