Disney princesses have captivated audiences for generations with their enchanting stories, magical worlds, and timeless messages. We’ve fallen in love with these royal heroines time and time again, reliving their adventures through countless rewatches and sing-alongs.
Now, thanks to Disney+, we can easily access a treasure trove of princess films at our fingertips. In this article, we’ll explore the 12 Best Disney Princess movies on Disney Plus, highlighting the cream of the crop for your next movie night. From classic hand-drawn animations to modern CGI masterpieces, there’s a princess tale for every taste and age group on this streaming platform.
1) The Little Mermaid
We can’t help but fall in love with The Little Mermaid all over again every time we watch it. This 1989 classic kicked off Disney’s Renaissance era and set the standard for princess movies to come.
Ariel’s journey from mermaid to human is filled with catchy tunes that we still find ourselves humming today. “Part of Your World” and “Under the Sea” are absolute show-stoppers that capture the magic of this undersea adventure.
The vibrant animation brings the ocean world to life in stunning detail. We’re always mesmerized by the colorful coral reefs and the sinister depths of Ursula’s lair.
Speaking of Ursula, she’s one of Disney’s most iconic villains. Her scheming and powerful presence make her a worthy adversary for our spirited heroine.
We adore Ariel’s determination and curiosity. Her quest for independence and true love resonates with audiences of all ages. The Little Mermaid movie on Disney+ is a timeless tale that we believe every Disney fan should experience.
With its perfect blend of romance, humor, and adventure, The Little Mermaid remains a crown jewel in Disney’s princess collection. It’s no wonder this beloved classic continues to enchant new generations of viewers.
2) Beauty and the Beast
We absolutely adore this timeless tale as old as time. Beauty and the Beast is a true masterpiece that captivates us every time we watch it. The 1991 animated version is one of Disney’s finest classics, and for good reason.
The stunning animation brings the enchanted castle and its inhabitants to life in a way that still amazes us today. We’re always impressed by the attention to detail in every frame.
Belle is a refreshing princess who values knowledge and kindness over appearance. Her bravery and compassion make her a role model we can’t help but admire.
The Beast’s character development is fantastic. We love watching him transform from a gruff, selfish prince into a caring and selfless individual.
Let’s not forget the incredible soundtrack! “Be Our Guest” never fails to put a smile on our faces, while “Beauty and the Beast” tugs at our heartstrings.
The supporting characters are just as lovable. Lumiere, Cogsworth, and Mrs. Potts add humor and warmth to the story. We can’t imagine the film without them.
In our opinion, Beauty and the Beast rightfully earned its place as the first animated film to be nominated for Best Picture at the Oscars. It’s a true gem in Disney’s crown.
3) Aladdin
We adore Aladdin for its magical blend of romance, adventure, and humor. This 1992 classic whisks us away to the enchanting city of Agrabah, where street rat Aladdin falls for the spirited Princess Jasmine.
The film’s Pixar-like humor and pacing make it a delightful watch for all ages. Robin Williams’ unforgettable performance as the Genie steals the show, delivering rapid-fire jokes and pop culture references that keep us laughing.
Jasmine stands out as a strong-willed princess who defies tradition and seeks freedom. Her chemistry with Aladdin is palpable, and their magic carpet ride is one of Disney’s most romantic scenes.
We can’t get enough of the catchy musical numbers. “A Whole New World” still gives us goosebumps, while “Friend Like Me” showcases the Genie’s showstopping abilities.
Aladdin’s rags-to-riches story teaches valuable lessons about being true to oneself and the importance of honesty. It’s a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences of all ages on Disney+.
4) Mulan
We absolutely adore Mulan as one of the most inspiring Disney Princess movies. This 1998 animated classic tells the story of a brave young woman who disguises herself as a man to take her father’s place in the army.
Mulan stands out for its powerful message of self-discovery and challenging gender norms. The protagonist breaks the mold of traditional Disney princesses, showing that heroism comes in many forms.
The film’s stunning animation brings ancient China to life with vibrant colors and sweeping landscapes. We’re always blown away by the attention to detail in every scene.
Mulan’s character development is truly exceptional. She grows from an uncertain young woman into a confident warrior, earning the respect of her fellow soldiers and ultimately saving China.
The movie’s soundtrack is another highlight. “Reflection” and “I’ll Make a Man Out of You” are catchy tunes that perfectly capture Mulan’s journey and the film’s themes.
We can’t forget about Mushu, Mulan’s hilarious dragon sidekick. His witty one-liners add a perfect touch of humor to balance the more serious moments.
5) Frozen
We absolutely adore Frozen! This modern Disney classic took the world by storm with its catchy tunes and heartwarming story. It’s no wonder it became one of the highest-grossing animated films of all time.
The tale of sisters Anna and Elsa resonates deeply with audiences of all ages. We love how it subverts traditional princess tropes, focusing on sisterly love rather than romantic interests.
Elsa’s struggle with her ice powers and journey to self-acceptance is truly inspiring. And who can forget Olaf, the lovable snowman who brings humor and warmth to every scene?
The animation is breathtaking, especially the ice effects and snowy landscapes. We’re constantly amazed by the attention to detail in every frame.
Let’s not forget the music! “Let It Go” became an instant classic, but the entire soundtrack is filled with memorable songs that we can’t help but sing along to.
Frozen brought Disney princess movies into a new era, blending classic fantasy with modern humor. It’s a must-watch for any Disney fan on the streaming platform.
6) Tangled
We adore “Tangled” for its fresh take on the classic Rapunzel story. This 2010 gem breathed new life into Disney’s princess lineup with its witty humor and stunning visuals.
The film’s 3D look and Pixar-esque pacing bring a modern flair to the fairy tale genre. Rapunzel’s spunky personality and Flynn Rider’s charming roguishness make for an irresistible duo.
We can’t get enough of the catchy tunes, especially “I See the Light.” The lantern scene is pure Disney magic, reminding us why we fell in love with these movies in the first place.
Maximus the horse steals every scene he’s in, proving that sidekicks don’t need to talk to be hilarious. And let’s not forget Pascal, the adorable chameleon with attitude to spare.
“Tangled” marked a turning point for Disney animation. It set the studio on a path to a brighter era, paving the way for future hits.
We love how the animators balanced cutting-edge technology with the warmth of traditional animation. It’s a perfect blend of old and new that keeps us coming back for more.
7) Moana
We absolutely adore Moana, a Disney princess who breaks the mold in all the best ways. This 2016 animated gem takes us on an unforgettable journey across the Pacific Ocean.
Moana isn’t your typical princess. She’s the daughter of a chief, destined to lead her people. Her connection to the sea and determination to save her island make her incredibly relatable and inspiring.
The film’s stunning visuals transport us to a lush, vibrant world of Polynesian culture. We’re blown away by the attention to detail in every frame.
Moana’s music is simply spectacular. From “How Far I’ll Go” to “You’re Welcome,” the soundtrack is a masterpiece that rivals even “Frozen” in our opinion.
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s performance as the demigod Maui adds charm and humor to the story. His chemistry with Auli’i Cravalho’s Moana is perfect.
We love how the film emphasizes themes of self-discovery and environmental stewardship. It’s a refreshing take on the princess narrative that resonates with audiences of all ages.
Moana’s popularity has only grown since its release, inspiring a wide range of merchandise that celebrates the beloved character and her adventurous spirit. From adorable Moana toys that bring the story to life to Moana digital collectibles that let fans interact with the magic in new ways, the enduring appeal of Moana is a testament to the film’s timeless quality and her inspiring journey.
8) Cinderella
We can’t help but adore the timeless charm of Disney’s 1950 animated classic Cinderella. This enchanting tale of a mistreated young woman who finds her happily ever after continues to captivate audiences of all ages.
The film’s stunning animation brings the magical world to life, with vibrant colors and fluid movement that still impress today. We’re particularly fond of the adorable animal sidekicks, especially Gus and Jaq, who add humor and heart to the story.
Cinderella herself is a character we can’t help but root for. Her kindness and resilience in the face of adversity make her a truly inspiring princess. And who can forget that iconic transformation scene? The sparkling blue gown and glass slippers are pure Disney magic.
The memorable songs, like “A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes” and “Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo,” have us humming along every time. We love how they perfectly complement the story and enhance the film’s whimsical atmosphere.
While some may argue the plot is simple, we believe its timeless message of hope and perseverance is what makes Cinderella a true Disney Princess classic. It’s a must-watch for anyone with a Disney+ subscription.
9) Pocahontas
Pocahontas stands out as a unique entry in the Disney princess lineup. We love how it tackles more mature themes than many of its predecessors.
The film’s stunning animation brings the lush forests of Virginia to life. Its visual style perfectly captures the natural beauty of the New World.
Pocahontas herself is a strong and independent protagonist. We admire her courage and wisdom as she navigates the conflict between her people and the English settlers.
The movie boasts what many consider the best soundtrack of any Disney animated film. “Colors of the Wind” remains an iconic Disney song to this day.
While the film takes significant liberties with historical accuracy, it still offers valuable lessons about cultural understanding and environmental stewardship.
Critics have given Pocahontas mixed reviews over the years. It currently holds a 55% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, lower than many other Disney princess movies.
Despite its flaws, we believe Pocahontas deserves a spot on this list for its ambition and memorable moments.
10) The Princess and the Frog
We absolutely adore The Princess and the Frog! This 2009 gem brings us Disney’s first Black princess, Tiana, in a charming tale set in vibrant New Orleans.
Tiana’s determination and work ethic make her one of the most relatable Disney princesses. We love that she’s not waiting for a prince to rescue her – she’s got big dreams of owning her own restaurant.
The movie’s stunning hand-drawn animation is a treat for the eyes. It’s a beautiful throwback to Disney’s classic style in an era of 3D animation.
The catchy jazz-inspired soundtrack has us tapping our toes every time. “Almost There” is an instant classic that perfectly captures Tiana’s ambition and spirit.
We can’t forget about the lovable supporting characters. Ray the firefly and Louis the alligator add plenty of humor and heart to the story.
The Princess and the Frog offers a fresh take on the classic fairy tale. It’s a delightful addition to Disney’s princess lineup that we find ourselves returning to again and again on Disney+.
11) Sleeping Beauty
We adore Sleeping Beauty, a timeless classic that’s one of our favorite Disney princess movies. Released in 1959, this animated gem continues to captivate audiences with its stunning visuals and unforgettable characters.
Princess Aurora, with her grace and beauty, steals our hearts from the moment she appears on screen. Her enchanting voice and kind nature make her a truly lovable protagonist.
But let’s be honest, Maleficent steals the show as one of Disney’s most iconic villains. Her sinister presence and dramatic flair add an extra layer of excitement to the story.
We can’t get enough of the three good fairies – Flora, Fauna, and Merryweather. Their bickering and magical mishaps provide much-needed comic relief throughout the film.
The film’s animation is a feast for the eyes. The intricate backgrounds and vibrant colors transport us to a magical medieval world.
And who can forget the memorable soundtrack? “Once Upon a Dream” remains one of the most beloved Disney songs of all time.
While Aurora spends a good portion of the movie asleep, the adventure surrounding her awakening keeps us on the edge of our seats.
12) Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs
We can’t help but feel nostalgic when we think about Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. This timeless classic holds a special place in our hearts as the first full-length animated feature film ever created.
Released in 1937, Snow White set the stage for all Disney princess movies to come. We love how it brings the Brothers Grimm fairy tale to life with its enchanting animation and memorable characters.
The story of the kind-hearted princess who finds refuge with seven quirky dwarfs never fails to captivate us. We’re always amazed by the film’s historical significance in the world of animation.
Snow White’s journey, from fleeing her evil stepmother to finding true love’s kiss, is a tale we never tire of watching. The catchy tunes like “Heigh-Ho” and “Someday My Prince Will Come” still have us humming along.
While Snow White might not be as active a protagonist as later Disney princesses, we appreciate her gentle nature and optimism. Her ability to befriend both animals and dwarfs alike is truly endearing.
Cinematic Evolution of Disney Princesses
Disney princesses have undergone a remarkable transformation over the decades. The evolution reflects changing societal values and technological advancements in animation.
From Classic to Modern
We’ve seen a dramatic shift in Disney princesses since Snow White debuted in 1937. Early princesses like Cinderella and Aurora were often passive characters waiting to be rescued by their princes.
The 1990s brought more independent heroines like Belle and Mulan. These princesses had goals beyond finding true love and actively drove their own stories forward.
Recent princesses like Moana and Raya showcase even more diversity and agency. They’re leaders, problem-solvers, and heroes in their own right. Disney princesses have gone through quite a lot of (much-needed) evolution to better reflect modern values and empower young viewers.
Impact of Animation Advances
Technological progress has revolutionized how Disney brings princesses to life on screen. Early hand-drawn animations were beautiful but limited in their realism and fluidity of movement.
The introduction of computer animation opened up new possibilities. Films like “Tangled” and “Frozen” showcase incredibly detailed environments and more naturalistic character movements.
We’ve seen vast improvements in rendering textures like hair, fabric, and water. This allows for more visually stunning and immersive princess worlds. Modern animation techniques also enable more nuanced facial expressions, adding depth to princess characterizations.
These technological leaps have elevated storytelling, allowing filmmakers to create even more magical and captivating Disney princess adventures.
Cultural Influence and Representation
Disney Princess movies have made significant strides in portraying diverse cultures and challenging traditional stereotypes. We’ve seen a remarkable shift towards more authentic representation and inclusive storytelling in recent years.
Breaking Stereotypes
Disney has come a long way from its early princess films. Modern princesses are no longer passive damsels in distress waiting to be rescued. Instead, they’re brave, independent, and driven by their own goals. Raya and the Last Dragon showcases a fierce warrior princess who doesn’t need a prince to save the day.
We love how Moana defies the typical princess mold. She’s a strong-willed leader chosen by the ocean itself. Her journey isn’t about finding romance, but about saving her people and discovering her own identity.
Mulan breaks gender stereotypes by disguising herself as a male soldier. Her story emphasizes bravery and loyalty over traditional feminine ideals.
Diversity in Characters
Disney’s push for diversity has given us a wonderful array of princesses from different cultural backgrounds. Tiana, Disney’s first African American princess, brings New Orleans culture to life through music, food, and vibrant storytelling.
Turning Red explores the experiences of first-generation immigrant teenagers, tackling cross-cultural identities with humor and heart. We appreciate how it portrays Chinese Canadian culture authentically.
Coco immerses us in Mexican traditions, particularly the Day of the Dead. Its vibrant depiction of family bonds and cultural heritage resonates deeply with audiences worldwide.
Pocahontas marked an early attempt at cultural representation, though it faced criticism for historical inaccuracies. We’ve seen Disney’s approach evolve significantly since then, with more research and cultural consultants involved in the creative process.
We hope you enjoyed this magical journey through some of the best Christmas movies on Disney Plus. If you’re eager to discover even more Disney movie magic, check out our other popular 10 Best Christmas Movies on Disney Plus, all designed to enhance your Disney experience. You can see all of these popular family films on Disney Plus.