Not having a constant flow of original content might be the streamer’s biggest weakness, but Disney+ still has some of the best movies to stream now thanks to its legacy backlog and periodic new releases. The overall Disney brand is known for catering to the widest age demographics, having content from the likes of Star Wars and Marvel to National Geographic to satisfy every type of viewer. This regularly updated list highlights some of the best movies on Disney+ right now.
While you’re looking and if you’re not already a subscriber, take a look at the Disney Bundle, which will get you Disney+, ESPN+, and a basic Hulu subscription for just $14 a month. It’s a great value for the price you’re paying, as it essentially nets you three streaming services for the price of two.
If you want to expand your search, we’ve also rounded up the best shows on Disney+, as well as the best movies on Netflix, the best movies on Amazon Prime, and the best movies on Hulu.
Recently added to Disney+
-
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever
2022 -
Fire of Love
2022 -
Lightyear
2022 -
We Feed People
2022 -
Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers
2022 -
Turning Red
2022
Bears (2014)
78m
Genre
Documentary
Stars
John C. Reilly
Directed by
Alastair Fothergill, Keith Scholey
For those looking to take a break from dramas and action, Disney+ has plenty of engaging nature documentaries to get lost in. Coming from the company’s Disneynature brand, Bears is a beautifully executed documentary film following the ventures of a loving bear family. Narrated by actor John C. Reilly, the movie begins with a brown bear dubbed Sky and her cubs as they awaken from hibernation, and it continues to see the family venture across the landscape to find food and avoid the natural perils that pose threats to them.
Ice Age (2002)
81m
Genre
Animation, Comedy, Family, Adventure
Stars
Ray Romano, John Leguizamo, Denis Leary
Directed by
Chris Wedge
Though the franchise may have diluted itself with the several sequels that followed, the original 2002 Ice Age was a beloved animated classic of the decade. That says something considering its top-tier animated contemporaries, with the central theme of the “found family” heartwarming and the humor that arises from the unlikely group landing. As the title suggests, Ice Age takes place during the prehistoric age of mammals, where a woolly mammoth named Manny, a giant sloth named Sid, and a saber-toothed cat named Diego find themselves tasked with returning an infant human to its tribe.
Captain America: Civil War (2016)
147m
Genre
Adventure, Action, Science Fiction
Stars
Chris Evans, Robert Downey Jr., Scarlett Johansson
Directed by
Anthony Russo, Joe Russo
Marvel Studio’s Captain America trilogy raised the stakes with The Winter Soldier, often praised as being among the MCU’s best. Steve Roger’s trilogy closer, Civil War, was another solid follow-up this time functioning as a sort of mini Avengers film. In the aftermath of Avengers: Age of Ultron, the titular superhero team finds themselves starkly divided when pressures of international oversight mount over metahuman activity. Effectively divided into “Team Captain America” and “Team Iron Man,” Captain America: Civil War pits friends against friends in an explosive story.
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)
new
162m
Genre
Action, Adventure, Science Fiction
Stars
Letitia Wright, Lupita Nyong’o, Danai Gurira
Directed by
Ryan Coogler
Since the tragic passing of actor Chadwick Boseman, the sequel to Black Panther was always going to have a somber atmosphere about it. However, Ryan Coogler’s Black Panther: Wakanda Forever succeeds in being a tasteful and touching tribute that advanced the story from this corner of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. In the wake of King T’Challa’s death, the leaders of the nation need to rally together as Namor — the king of an ancient underwater civilization — leads an assault on Wakanda. Angela Bassett, in particular, leads the film with a commanding performance.
Wreck-It Ralph (2012)
101m
Genre
Family, Animation, Comedy, Adventure
Stars
John C. Reilly, Sarah Silverman, Jack McBrayer
Directed by
Rich Moore
The 2012 animated comedy Wreck-It Ralph is a great choice for family entertainment, and it takes a clever meta spin on the video-game-to-movie adaptation. It colorfully brings to life the nostalgic days of arcade gaming with charismatic characters played by the likes of John C. Reilly, Sarah Silverman, Jane Lynch, and more. Wreck-It Ralph follows the story of the titular video game villain that tires of the role of the antagonist and chooses to pursue his dream of becoming a hero.
Finding Nemo (2003)
100m
Genre
Animation, Family
Stars
Albert Brooks, Ellen DeGeneres, Alexander Gould
Directed by
Andrew Stanton
Disney’s Pixar Animation Studios can always be trusted to put together a memorable animated family movie. 2003’s Finding Nemo has since been regarded as a modern classic, transcending the decade it debuted in theaters. Starring the likes of Ellen DeGeneres, Geoffrey Rush, and Willem Dafoe, Finding Nemo tells the story of an overprotective clownfish named Marlin who goes on an ocean-wide quest with his forgetful friend Dory to find his lost son Nemo. The movie was released to critical acclaim for its charming brand of humor and heartfelt story that appeals to all audiences.
Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)
136m
Genre
Action, Adventure, Science Fiction
Stars
Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson, Sebastian Stan
Directed by
Anthony Russo, Joe Russo
Widely considered to be one of the best movies to come out of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Captain America: The Winter Soldier is an impressive sophomore entry in the titular hero’s film series. While most things in the mainline MCU aren’t particularly gritty, The Winter Soldier serves as an effective action-thriller with some conspiratorial intrigue. In this story, Captain America and Black Widow team up to uncover the seedy underbelly of S.H.I.E.L.D., as well as the sudden reappearance of the ominous Winter Soldier. It’s a refreshing change of pace, injecting a welcome dose of dramatic grit into this vast cinematic world.
Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018)
135m
Genre
Science Fiction, Adventure, Action
Stars
Alden Ehrenreich, Joonas Suotamo, Woody Harrelson
Directed by
Ron Howard
Though it underwhelmed at the box office, Lucasfilm’s Solo: A Star Wars Story managed to garner a moderately positive critical reception for its efforts. Solo sees the origin story of Han Solo played by Harrison Ford whom fans have long since come to know and love, with actor Alden Ehrenreich putting up an admirable performance as the young scoundrel on a series of high-octane space heists. From street kid to infamously talented bounty hunter, this Han is joined by a colorful and entertaining supporting cast, including Donald Glover’s take on a young Lando Calrissian and Game of Thrones alum Emilia Clarke’s portrayal of original character Qi’ra.
Return of the Jedi (1983)
135m
Genre
Adventure, Action, Science Fiction
Stars
Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher
Directed by
Richard Marquand
Even if it doesn’t quite hold up to the astronomically high standards set by A New Hope and The Empire Strikes Back, Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi is still a deeply rewarding conclusion to one of the greatest movie trilogies. After the revelations and fallout of Empire‘s climactic events between Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader, the young Jedi sets out on a mission to destroy the Empire’s second Death Star and defeat them for good. The Ewoks may overstay their welcome, but Return of the Jedi is similarly climactic and a resounding finish to Luke’s hero’s journey.
Willow (1988)
126m
Genre
Action, Adventure, Fantasy
Stars
Warwick Davis, Val Kilmer, Joanne Whalley
Directed by
Ron Howard
In 1988, George Lucas and director Ron Howard took a stab at fantasy in Willow. Ewok actor Warwick Davis headlined the film as Willow Ufgood, a Nelwyn/Dwarf who has big dreams of becoming a sorcerer. Willow’s life is upended when he becomes the guardian of a human infant, Elora Danan. The evil Queen Bavmorda (Jean Marsh) wants Elora dead because she is prophesied to end her reign. Bavmorda is far more powerful than Willow, which is why he’s lucky to have the swordsman known as Madmartigan (Val Kilmer) on his side. A Willow sequel series is currently streaming on Disney+.
Avatar (2009)
162m
Genre
Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Science Fiction
Stars
Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldaña, Sigourney Weaver
Directed by
James Cameron
It’s been a few months since Disney+ pulled Avatar so that people would watch it again in theaters. But now that Avatar: The Way of Water is here, James Cameron’s beautifully realized vision has returned. Sam Worthington stars as Jake Sully, a disabled Marine who is given the chance to replace his late brother in the Avatar program on the alien world, Pandora. Under the orders of Colonel Miles Quaritch (Stephen Lang), Jake’s mind inhabits an alien body similar to the Na’vi, Pandora’s native race. It’s Jake’s job to win the trust of the Na’vi, but his growing love for the Na’vi girl, Neytiri (Zoe Saldana), makes him realize that he’s on the wrong side.
Home Alone (1990)
103m
Genre
Comedy, Family
Stars
Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern
Directed by
Chris Columbus
‘Tis the season for Home Alone, the unlikely Christmas classic that made Macaulay Culkin a star. As the youngest son of the McAllister family, Kevin (Culkin) is accidentally left behind when the rest of the family goes on a holiday vacation. And for a while, it’s a dream come true for Kevin to have the house to himself. But when The Wet Bandits, Harry (Joe Pesci) and Marv (Daniel Stern), target Kevin’s house, he’ll have to overcome his initial fear to create a nearly lethal series of traps for the pair of inept crooks.
Fire of Love (2022)
new
97m
Genre
Documentary
Stars
Miranda July, Katia Krafft, Maurice Krafft
Directed by
Sara Dosa
National Geographic’s Fire of Love is the rare documentary that doubles as a love story and an appreciation for nature’s fury. Unfortunately, it is also a tragedy. The film showcases Katia and Maurice Krafft, a pair of French volcanologists whose passion for each other was only matched for the work they shared. Together, they traveled the world and essentially became volcano chasers. They chronicled their journey with stunning pictures and videos before they lost their lives in a volcanic explosion. Regardless, their story — and their love — is still inspiring.
Black Panther (2018)
134m
Genre
Action, Adventure, Science Fiction
Stars
Chadwick Boseman, Michael B. Jordan, Lupita Nyong’o
Directed by
Ryan Coogler
The original Black Panther movie was an unexpected cultural phenomenon in 2018, on its way toward becoming one of the most successful superhero films ever made. Credit for that in large part goes to director Ryan Coogler, the late Chadwick Boseman as T’Challa/Black Panther, and a terrific supporting cast. Michael B. Jordan’s Killmonger also gave T’Challa an incredibly compelling villain whose own tragic backstory challenges the Black Panther’s worldview. When Killmonger threatens to take over Wakanda itself, T’Challa will have to find it within himself to become the hero and the king that his people need.
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
76m
Genre
Fantasy, Animation, Family
Stars
Chris Sarandon, Danny Elfman, Catherine O’Hara
Directed by
Henry Selick
The Nightmare Before Christmas is perhaps the only Christmas movie that’s fit for Halloween — and vice versa. Tim Burton and director Henry Selick’s masterfully realized stop-motion animated masterpiece is probably keeping Hot Topic in business after all of these years. But this film is also beloved for its catchy tunes by Danny Elfman, and for the lovable hero, Jack Skellington (Chris Sarandon). Jack is the master of all things Halloween, and yet dreadfully bored by all of it. When he discovers that Christmas is a thing, Jack doesn’t hesitate to hijack the holiday and put his own spin on “Sandy Claws.” Needless to say, Jack’s take on Christmas really freaks out the human world. It also endangers his friends in Halloween Town.
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016)
133m
Genre
Action, Adventure, Science Fiction
Stars
Felicity Jones, Diego Luna, Alan Tudyk
Directed by
Gareth Edwards
With the release of Andor, it’s a good time to revisit Rogue One, one of the very best Star Wars movies of the Disney era. Director Gareth Edwards delivered a beautiful stand-alone film that serves as a prequel to the original Star Wars. Felicity Jones headlines the cast as Jyn Erso, a rebellious thief who is recruited to locate a former associate in order to receive a message from her long-missing father, Galen (Mads Mikkelsen). But soon enough, Jyn, Cassian Andor (Diego Luna), K-2SO (Alan Tudyk), and a ragtag team are on a suicide mission to steal the Death Star plans from the Empire in a desperate bid to save the Rebel Alliance.
Soul (2020)
101m
Genre
Animation, Comedy, Fantasy, Family
Stars
Jamie Foxx, Tina Fey, Graham Norton
Directed by
Pete Docter
Anyone who claims that Pixar has lost its way should check out Soul, one of the best films the studio has ever produced. Jamie Foxx leads the voice cast as Joe Gardner, a music teacher who has dreams of becoming a professional jazz musician. But just when Joe is on the verge of achieving his goal, he dies and finds himself in The Great Before. Rather than let his soul slip away into the afterlife, Joe teams up with a free spirit called 23 (Tina Fey) to find a way back to Earth.
The Rocketeer (1991)
108m
Genre
Action, Adventure, Science Fiction, Family
Stars
Timothy Dalton, Alan Arkin, Billy Campbell
Directed by
Joe Johnston
Not all superheroes come out of the Marvel Universe. In 1991, the late Dave Stevens’ comic book, The Rocketeer, was brought to the big screen by Disney and director Joe Johnston. In this very fun throwback adventure, Billy Campbell stars as Cliff Secord, a stunt pilot in 1938 who stumbles across an experimental jet pack that was stolen by Nazi spies. Cliff uses the jet pack to become the Rocketeer in part to keep his girlfriend, Jenny Blake (Jennifer Connelly). But when the Nazis and their hidden operatives come for the jet pack, Cliff will have to become a hero to save himself and his girl.
Toy Story (1995)
81m
Genre
Animation, Adventure, Family, Comedy
Stars
Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Don Rickles
Directed by
John Lasseter
Toy Story was a game changer in every sense of the word for Pixar, Disney, and the entire animation industry. Prior to 1995, hand-drawn 2D animation reigned supreme. As Disney and Pixar’s first full-length computer-animated film, Toy Story was a revelation at the time. And it is still a technical marvel nearly three decades later. Tom Hanks stars as the voice of Woody, a cowboy action figure who is the favorite toy of a boy named Andy. Or at least he was until space ranger Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen) came along. Woody’s attempt to get rid of his rival puts both toys in danger. And they can only save each other by working together.
The Sandlot (1993)
101m
Genre
Family, Comedy
Stars
Tom Guiry, Mike Vitar, James Earl Jones
Directed by
David M. Evans
Thanks to the 2019 acquisition of 20th Century Fox’s films and TV shows, The Sandlot is now a Disney movie. And it’s a very fitting distinction for this classic coming-of-age tale that just happens to be on the verge of its 30th anniversary in 2023. Tom Guiry stars as Scott Smalls, a lonely and unathletic kid growing up in the early ‘60s. Fortunately, Scott makes friends with Benjamin “Benny” Franklin Rodriguez (Mike Vitar) and the rest of his local sandlot baseball team. But when Scott accidentally loses a valuable signed baseball during a game, the boys question how they can possibly retrieve it from a notorious neighbor’s yard without running afoul of his intimidating canine.
The Princess Bride (1987)
99m
Genre
Adventure, Family, Fantasy, Comedy, Romance
Stars
Cary Elwes, Robin Wright, Mandy Patinkin
Directed by
Rob Reiner
William Goldman got the chance to adapt his novel The Princess Bride for director Rob Reiner, and the result was a cinematic classic. Cary Elwes stars as Westley, a farm boy who falls in love with Princess Buttercup (Robin Wright) at an early age. After years apart, Westley re-enters Buttercup’s life as the Dread Pirate Roberts. To save Buttercup from a forced marriage to Prince Humperdinck (Chris Sarandon), Westley makes some unlikely allies including Inigo Montoya (Mandy Patinkin) and a gentle giant named Fezzik (Andre the Giant). And in a clever framing device, the story unfolds as a bedside tale told by a grandfather (Peter Falk) to his sick grandson (Fred Savage).
Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988)
104m
Genre
Fantasy, Animation, Comedy, Crime, Family
Stars
Bob Hoskins, Christopher Lloyd, Joanna Cassidy
Directed by
Robert Zemeckis
You’ve never lived until you’ve seen Donald Duck and Daffy Duck in an increasingly violent piano duel at the Ink and Paint Club. In the alternate world of Who Framed Roger Rabbit, Disney and Warner Bros. Toons live side by side in Toontown. But when one of the cartoon industry’s biggest stars, Roger Rabbit (Charles Fleischer), finds himself wanted for murder, he turns to Eddie Valiant (Bob Hoskins). Back in the day, Eddie and his brother were the go-to private investigators for Toons. However, Eddie’s been in a funk ever since his brother was killed by a Toon. Fortunately for Roger, Eddie steps up when the malevolent Judge Doom (Christopher Lloyd) and his weasels hunt them down.
The Muppet Movie (1979)
97m
Genre
Music, Adventure, Comedy, Family
Stars
Jim Henson, Frank Oz, Jerry Nelson
Directed by
James Frawley
If you’ve ever heard the song Rainbow Connection, this is where it came from. The Muppet Movie is essentially the origin story for Kermit the Frog (Jim Henson), Miss Piggy (Frank Oz), Gonzo (Dave Goelz), and the rest of their friends from The Muppet Show. Kermit falls in love with the idea of making millions of people happy as an entertainer, but he falls even harder for Miss Piggy. Although love isn’t always a two-way street between them, Miss Piggy does save Kermit from the increasingly insane Doc Hopper (Charles Durning). In turn, Hopper hires a frog killer, Snake Walker (Scott Walker), to assassinate Kermit and his group before they ever reach Hollywood to audition for the opportunity of a lifetime.
Father of the Bride (1991)
105m
Genre
Comedy, Romance
Stars
Steve Martin, Diane Keaton, Kimberly Williams-Paisley
Directed by
Charles Shyer
Steve Martin is starting to show up a lot more on Disney+, in his family-friendly movies, of course. In this remake of Father of the Bride, Martin portrays George Banks, with Diane Keaton as his wife, Nina. Although the couple is initially happy, George is taken aback when his 22-year-old daughter, Annie (Kimberly Williams), comes home with her new fiancé, Bryan MacKenzie (George Newbern), after only knowing him for a few months. In addition to butting heads with Bryan and his parents, George has to contend with an eccentric wedding planner, Franck Eggelhoffer, as played by Martin’s frequent co-star, Martin Short.
Frozen (2013)
102m
Genre
Animation, Adventure, Family
Stars
Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel, Jonathan Groff
Directed by
Chris Buck, Jennifer Lee
How many times can you watch Frozen? Only your children know for sure. With the 10th anniversary of its release coming up soon, it has to be said that Frozen has earned its place in Disney history as perhaps the studio’s most popular film since the ‘90s. Idina Menzel stars as Elsa, the estranged Princess of Arendelle who is ostracized from the kingdom because of her incredible ability to bend ice and cold to her will. Kristen Bell also stars as Elsa’s sister, Anna. The sisters haven’t seen each other in years, but they will have to emotionally reconnect if they want to save the kingdom and each other.
Lightyear (2022)
new
107m
Genre
Animation, Science Fiction, Adventure, Action, Family
Stars
Chris Evans, Keke Palmer, Peter Sohn
Directed by
Angus MacLane
Get ready to meet the “real” Buzz Lightyear. Pixar’s Lightyear is predicated on the premise that this is the film that inspired the action figure from Toy Story. Beyond that, it’s largely its own take on the character originally played by Tim Allen. Captain America’s Chris Evans steps into the role of a much younger Buzz Lightyear, as his mission to explore strange new worlds inadvertently leaves his group marooned on a distant planet. And every time that Buzz performs a test flight with unstable energy, it sends him further and further into the future until he is the only original colonist who can stand against the alien robots led by Zurg (James Brolin). Fortunately, Buzz’s new friend, Izzy Hawthorne (Keke Palmer), and her team are there to help prove that Buzz doesn’t have to go it alone.
Moana (2016)
107m
Genre
Adventure, Comedy, Family, Animation
Stars
Auli’i Cravalho, Dwayne Johnson, Rachel House
Directed by
Ron Clements, John Musker
Need an excuse to watch Moana again? Disney+ has debuted a new sing-along version for fans of all ages. And boy is this a movie worth singing to. Lin-Manuel Miranda’s catchy tunes really rival the golden era of Disney musicals from the ‘90s. Auli’i Cravalho stars as Moana, a young woman who is destined to lead her people. But when she realizes that everything her people have is in danger, Moana leaves her island life behind to find the missing demigod, Maui (Dwayne Johnson), so they can restore the stolen heart of the goddess Te Fiti.
Tron (1982)
96m
Genre
Science Fiction, Action, Adventure
Stars
Jeff Bridges, Bruce Boxleitner, David Warner
Directed by
Steven Lisberger
2022 marks the 40th anniversary of Tron, a truly groundbreaking film that first hit theaters in 1982. Contrary to popular belief, Tron was not a flop at the box office, it just wasn’t a blockbuster hit. Fortunately, fans have embraced the story of Kevin Flynn (Jeff Bridges) a disgraced former programmer for ENCOM who is certain that CEO Ed Dillinger (David Warner) stole his work. While attempting to uncover evidence of that theft, Flynn is transported into the world of the computer itself. Flynn soon joins forces with Tron (Bruce Boxleitner) and Yori (Cindy Morgan), two programs that resemble his friends, Alan Bradley and Dr. Lora Baines. This movie is a visual masterpiece, and worthy of its cult status.
Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children (2016)
127m
Genre
Drama, Fantasy, Adventure, Family
Stars
Eva Green, Asa Butterfield, Samuel L. Jackson
Directed by
Tim Burton
Honest Trailers once described Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children as “Tim Burton’s X-Men.” That’s not an inaccurate statement. In this adaptation of Ransom Riggs’ novel, Jake Portman (Asa Butterfield) is alarmed to find his grandfather, Abe Portman (Terence Stamp), on the verge of death. Following Abe’s last words leads Jake to discover a hidden time loop where Miss Alma LeFay Peregrine (Eva Green) protects peculiar children with superhuman powers from the malevolent Mr. Barron (Samuel L. Jackson) and his Hallows. Unfortunately for Jake, his presence threatens to expose the entire home to Mr. Barron and permanently close the time loop.
Queen of Katwe (2016)
124m
Genre
Drama
Stars
Madina Nalwanga, David Oyelowo, Lupita Nyong’o
Directed by
Mira Nair
There aren’t a lot of sports biopics about chess players, but Queen of Katwe is one of the few. This film is based on the real story of Phiona Mutesi (Madina Nalwanga), a 10-year-old girl living in the slum of Katwe in Uganda. Despite the efforts of Phiona’s mother, Nakku Harriet (Lupita Nyong’o), the entire family is trapped in poverty. But they get a lifeline from Robert Katende (David Oyelowo), a missionary who teaches Phiona how to play chess. She soon proves to be such a prodigy that Robert introduces Phiona to the world of competitive chess masters. Yet even Phiona’s talent is stretched to its limit, forcing the young girl to question whether she can truly achieve her dream.
Big Hero 6 (2014)
102m
Genre
Adventure, Family, Animation, Action, Comedy
Stars
Scott Adsit, Ryan Potter, Daniel Henney
Directed by
Chris Williams, Don Hall
The Disney+ original series, Baymax!, has been released, so it’s fitting that we take a look back at the first big-screen appearance of everyone’s favorite healthcare robot in Big Hero 6. Unlike the vast majority of superheroes, Baymax (Scott Adsit) doesn’t really have any interest in fighting or violence. He was created to heal, and that is his purpose in life, even though young Hiro Hamada (Ryan Potter) tries to turn Baymax into something that he isn’t. Hiro’s new friends and Big Hero 6 teammates, Fred (T.J. Miller), Go Go (Jamie Chung), Wasabi (Damon Wayans Jr.). and Honey Lemon (Genesis Rodriguez), attempt to show Hiro a better way to be a hero. But it’s Baymax who allows Hiro to open his heart again.
Hamilton (2020)
160m
Genre
History, Drama
Stars
Lin-Manuel Miranda, Leslie Odom Jr., Renée Elise Goldsberry
Directed by
Thomas Kail
There are many hit Broadway shows, but very few that become a breakout cultural phenomenon in the way that Hamilton did. Lin-Manuel Miranda’s musical reimagining of the life of Alexander Hamilton and the founding fathers of America is a breathtaking spectacle with catchy tunes and one of the most popular Broadway hits in decades. Fortunately, the original cast members put in a special performance for this theatrically filmed event. This extraordinary group of actors may never again share the stage, but their version of Hamilton has a permanent home on Disney+ that can be revisited again and again.
Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (1989)
93m
Genre
Adventure, Comedy, Family, Science Fiction
Stars
Rick Moranis, Matt Frewer, Marcia Strassman
Directed by
Joe Johnston
Just over three decades ago, Honey I Shrunk the Kids was the pinnacle of live-action Disney summer movies. It’s still a lot of fun to revisit now, thanks largely to Rick Moranis’ lively performance as Wayne Szalinski, a beleaguered scientist who has created a way to shrink and enlarge objects. But Wayne just can’t seem to make it work safely. Wayne’s children, Amy (Amy O’Neill) and Nick (Robert Oliveri), and the neighbor’s kids, Russell “Little Russ” Thompson Jr. (Thomas Wilson Brown) and Ronald “Ron” Thompson (Jared Rushton), accidentally find the answer when they are shrunk to a microscopic size. In order to save themselves, the children will have to survive the perils of Wayne’s backyard.
Cool Runnings (1993)
98m
Genre
Comedy, Sports
Stars
Leon, Doug E. Doug, Rawle D. Lewis
Directed by
Jon Turteltaub
If you didn’t know that Cool Runnings was inspired by the true story of the 1988 Jamaica national bobsleigh team, then it would still be an inspiring underdog tale. Leon Robinson stars as Derice Bannock, a Jamaican athlete whose Olympic dreams are dashed…until he realizes that he could put together a four-man bobsleigh team with his friends, Sanka Coffie (Doug E. Doug), Junior Bevil (Rawle D. Lewis), and Yul Brenner (Malik Yoba). The late John Candy co-stars as Irving “Irv” Blitzer, a disgraced former bobsleigh medalist who sees his chance for redemption by training Derice and his friends. However, to truly compete, this is a team that has to find its own way. The Jamaican way.
Star Wars (1977)
121m
Genre
Adventure, Action, Science Fiction
Stars
Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher
Directed by
George Lucas
Forty -five years ago this week, the original Star Wars hit theaters and changed the movies forever. It was subsequently given the “Episode 4: A New Hope” name, but to the first generation of fans, it all starts here. In a desperate bid to keep Darth Vader (David Prowse with James Earl Jones as Vader’s voice) from retrieving the plans for a super weapon called the Death Star, Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher) hides them with two droids. From there, destiny awaits a restless young man named Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill), an exiled Jedi called Obi-Wan Kenobi (Alec Guinness), the Wookie Chewbacca (Peter Mayhew), and the scoundrel known as Han Solo (Harrison Ford). Even after all of these years, it’s still a rousing space adventure.
We Feed People (2022)
new
89m
Genre
Documentary
Stars
José Andrés Puerta
Directed by
Ron Howard
From National Geographic and director Ron Howard, We Feed People is a documentary that throws the spotlight on celebrity chef José Andrés and his nonprofit organization, World Central Kitchen. What began as a grass-roots company has become one of the leading humanitarian aid groups in times of trouble and disaster. This is its story and a look at the people who made it their mission to feed the hungry no matter how far they had to go.
Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers (2022)
new
96m
Genre
Comedy, Animation, Family, Adventure, Fantasy
Stars
John Mulaney, Andy Samberg, KiKi Layne
Directed by
Akiva Schaffer
We may never get a sequel to Who Framed Roger Rabbit, but surprisingly, Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers is here to pick up the torch with one of the most bitingly funny Disney movies to come along in this century. For the purposes of this movie, Chip (John Mulaney) and Dale (Andy Samberg) are washed-up toon actors who haven’t spoken to each other in years. The former duo is reunited when one of their Rescue Rangers co-stars goes missing, and they have to live up to their rep to find him. Along the way, Disney mercilessly skewers itself with satire that may be lost on younger viewers. Older members of the family are gonna get a kick out of it.
Inside Out (2015)
95m
Genre
Animation, Family, Adventure, Drama, Comedy
Stars
Amy Poehler, Phyllis Smith, Bill Hader
Directed by
Pete Docter
If you don’t mind having a good cry, then Inside Out remains a stunning addition to the Pixar library with a unique original story. Almost the entire movie takes place within the mind of a young girl named Riley (Kaitlyn Dias), through the emotions personified as Joy (Amy Poehler), Sadness (Phylis Smith), Fear (Bill Hader), Anger (Lewis Black), and Disgust (Mindy Kaling). When Riley is overwhelmed by despair following a difficult move, Joy is alarmed by the growing presence of Sadness. But soon, both avatars are lost in Riley’s mind, with no easy way to rejoin the rest of their companions. They will have to trust and appreciate each other in order to make it home.
Empire of Dreams: The Story of the Star Wars Trilogy (2004)
151m
Genre
Documentary
Stars
Robert Clotworthy, Kenny Baker, Jim Bloom
Directed by
Kevin Burns, Edith Becker
Since May is the 45th anniversary of Star Wars, it’s only fitting that we take a look back at how it all began. Empire of Dreams: The Story of the Star Wars Trilogy is a comprehensive examination of the making of Star Wars, The Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi. George Lucas and numerous cast members and crew share their memories and insight into one of the great sci-fi epics of our time. Fair warning, at two and a half hours, it’s quite long. But it’s also split up into five chapters, which may make for an easier way to break up the viewing experience if you choose to do so.
The Simpsons Movie (2007)
87m
Genre
Animation, Comedy, Family
Stars
Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright
Directed by
David Silverman
The Simpsons have been around for the better part of four decades, but they have only had one cinematic adventure so far. And The Simpsons Movie happens to be one of the best stories in the franchise, with enhanced animation for the big screen. After Homer Simpson (Dan Castellaneta) causes an ecological disaster, almost everyone in Springfield rises up and chases the Simpson family out of town. But when Springfield itself is targeted for destruction by the crazed head of the EPA, the entire Simpson clan must return in order to save their friends and neighbors.
Monsters, Inc. (2001)
92m
Genre
Animation, Comedy, Family
Stars
John Goodman, Billy Crystal, Mary Gibbs
Directed by
Pete Docter
Monsters, Inc. is one of Pixar’s finest films from its early years, and it features a great comedic duo in John Goodman and Billy Crystal. In an alternate world populated by monsters, energy is only available from harnessing the screams of human children. Mike (Crystal) and Sullivan (Goodman) are two monsters who are assigned to the scare floor before they accidentally bring a girl named Boo (May Gibbs) back from the human world. When Mike and Sully try to protect Boo from harm, they also discover secrets that may bring down Monsters, Inc. for good.
Turning Red (2022)
new
100m
Genre
Animation, Family, Comedy, Fantasy
Stars
Rosalie Chiang, Sandra Oh, Jordan Fisher
Directed by
Domee Shi
If you’re wondering if Pixar’s latest film lives up to its legacy, the answer is a resounding “yes.” Turning Red takes place two decades ago, and follows a 13-year-old girl named Meilin “Mei” Lee. Mei is at a time in her life when her body is changing in strange ways, like transforming into a giant red panda whenever she feels any strong emotion. Is it a curse or a blessing? It turns out that Mei’s distant ancestors had a mystical bond with red pandas. Unfortunately for Mei, she has to find her own answers. And it’s a good thing that she has friends who love her, regardless of whether she’s a red panda or not.
Night at the Museum (2006)
108m
Genre
Action, Adventure, Comedy, Family, Fantasy
Stars
Ben Stiller, Robin Williams, Carla Gugino
Directed by
Shawn Levy
All three of the Night At the Museum movies are on Disney+, but the first one is especially charming. Ben Stiller stars as Larry Daley, a perennial loser who gets a chance to become a security guard at the American Museum of Natural History. Much to Larry’s surprise, the exhibits come to life at night, including a model of Theodore Roosevelt (Robin Williams). When Larry brings his son, Nick (Jake Cherry), to see the miracle for himself, they discover a plot to rob the museum of its magic. And it’s up to Larry, Nick, and their new friends to save the day.
Iron Man (2008)
126m
Genre
Action, Science Fiction, Adventure
Stars
Robert Downey Jr., Terrence Howard, Jeff Bridges
Directed by
Jon Favreau
Before Jon Favreau wowed Star Wars fans with The Mandalorian, he helped found the Marvel Cinematic Universe with Iron Man. Unlike many of its MCU brethren, this movie feels a lot more grounded as Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) has an epiphany after getting kidnapped by terrorists in Afghanistan. Instead of selling weapons, Tony decides to create an armored suit unlike anything ever created before under the wary eyes of his employee, Virginia “Pepper” Potts (Gwyneth Paltrow), and his shady business partner, Obadiah Stane (Jeff Bridges). Iron Man set the template for almost every comic book movie that came after it. And it’s now available to stream in its IMAX-enhanced aspect ratio.
Ratatouille (2007)
111m
Genre
Animation, Comedy, Family, Fantasy
Stars
Patton Oswalt, Ian Holm, Lou Romano
Directed by
Brad Bird
It may sound hard to believe now, but some Hollywood observers really believed that Ratatouille would be Pixar’s first flop. Instead, this beautifully made film is a real charmer thanks to a winning performance by Patton Oswalt as Remy, a rat with a passion for cooking and food. Remy is so enamored with the late chef, Auguste Gusteau (Brad Garrett), that he wants to be a professional cook. Remy soon finds a human partner, Alfredo Linguini (Lou Romano), an employee at Gusteau’s restaurant with no talent for cooking. But with Remy’s direction, they can create magic with food.
Encanto (2021)
102m
Genre
Animation, Comedy, Family, Fantasy
Stars
Stephanie Beatriz, María Cecilia Botero, John Leguizamo
Directed by
Byron Howard, Jared Bush
Following up on the success of Moana, Disney and songwriter Lin-Manuel Miranda have once again made beautiful music together in Encanto. This also happens to be the 60th animated film produced by Disney Pictures. Within the film, a Colombian family, the Madrigals, are blessed with unique magical powers that make them the protectors of their small town. However, Mirabel Madrigal (Stephanie Beatriz) isn’t like the other members of her family. She doesn’t have any magical ability of her own, and she is painfully ordinary. Yet when the magic powering her family is threatened, Mirabel may be the only one who can save them all.
Digital Trends streaming roundup
-
Best shows on Disney+
-
Best Amazon Prime Original movies
-
Best movies on Netflix
-
Best movies on HBO Max
-
Best movies on Hulu
The Avengers (2012)
143m
Genre
Science Fiction, Action, Adventure
Stars
Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo
Directed by
Joss Whedon
It’s not an exaggeration to say that The Avengers changed the game for superhero movies. Marvel Studios’ first-ever team-up film brought together Iron Man (Robert Downey, Jr.), Captain America (Chris Evans), Thor (Chris Hemsworth), Hulk (Mark Ruffalo), Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson), and Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner) together under the watchful eye of Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson) to take on Thor’s estranged brother, Loki (Tom Hiddleston). The heroes’ frequent personality clashes are even more engaging than the fights. Regardless, the climactic Battle of New York features the heroes at their best as they take on an alien invasion. It’s almost a perfect superhero film, even though it was upstaged by its sequels.
Luca (2021)
95m
Genre
Animation, Comedy, Family, Fantasy
Stars
Jacob Tremblay, Jack Dylan Grazer, Emma Berman
Directed by
Enrico Casarosa
A shy, young sea monster living off the coast of Italy meets a free-spirited fellow sea monster, and their friendship brings them out of the water and into the world of humans in this delightful film from director Enrico Casarosa. The filmmaker’s own childhood in Genoa, Italy, inspired this tale of friendship, which casts Jacob Tremblay and Jack Dylan Grazer as sea monsters Luca and Alberto, respectively. Fun, funny, and beautifully brought to the screen, Luca is a love letter to childhood friendships and the sights, sounds, and delicious food of the Italian coast.
Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
124m
Genre
Sci-Fi, Action, Adventure
Stars
Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher
Directed by
Irvin Kershner
Widely considered the best installment of the entire sci-fi saga, The Empire Strikes Back is the chapter that featured the most dramatic character arcs of the original trilogy and established both their legacies and the tragic events that intertwined their destinies. Not only that, but it also introduced some of the franchise’s most popular supporting characters, Lando Calrissian and Boba Fett, and featured one of the trilogy’s most memorable battles, set on the frozen planet of Hoth. After the heroic events of A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back offered a far more somber exploration of the gritty realities of war against an oppressive, formidable force led by a seemingly indestructible foe: Darth Vader.
Raya and the Last Dragon (2021)
107m
Genre
Family, Fantasy, Animation, Action, Adventure
Stars
Kelly Marie Tran, Awkwafina, Izaac Wang
Directed by
Don Hall, Carlos López Estrada
A lone warrior sets out to reunite the fractured land of Kumandra by reassembling a powerful magical artifact in this feature from Walt Disney Animation Studios. Part martial arts adventure, part heist film, and soaked in visually stunning images and wonderful fantasy elements, Raya and the Last Dragon is a story about the families we create for ourselves and the strength it takes to build trust after a tragedy. Kelly Marie Tran voices Raya, a capable, independent warrior who must journey to the far corners of her world to bring it together. She’s joined by the dragon Sisu, voiced by Awkwafina, as well as a host of other colorful characters portrayed by Gemma Chan, Daniel Dae Kim, Sandra Oh, Benedict Wong, and Alan Tudyk, among others.
Editors’ Recommendations
-
The 49 best shows on Netflix right now (March 2023)
-
The best anime on Hulu right now
-
The best movies and shows on Shudder right now (March 2023)
-
The best Hulu original series right now
-
The best mysteries on Netflix right now
