Critics rank every Disney animated film

Walt Disney Animation Studios, originating as the Disney Brothers Cartoon Studio in 1923, has grown into a powerhouse of animated storytelling. Over nearly a century, the studio has released more than 50 fully animated feature films. The newest addition, Zootopia 2 (2025), has been widely praised by critics.

From its humble beginnings with Walt and Roy Disney bringing Mickey Mouse to life, Disney has expanded into a global media giant, owning franchises such as Star Wars, Marvel, Pixar, and more. Yet, the heart of Disney remains in its animated features. Since the release of its first full-length animation, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs in 1937, Disney has been the benchmark for animated storytelling.

Critics' ratings from Rotten Tomatoes were used to rank Disneys fully animated films, excluding hybrids like Mary Poppins and Song of the South, as well as productions by Disney MovieToons like A Goofy Movie. These scores were current as of December 2025, immediately following the release of Zootopia 2.

Lower-Ranked Films

Chicken Little (2005) 36%: A fearful young chicken believes the sky is falling, ignored by the adults around him. Despite its charm, the story failed to resonate with critics.

Brother Bear (2003) 38%: Following Tarzan, Disney explored brotherhood and redemption, but the story was considered simplistic.

Wish (2023) & Atlantis: The Lost Empire (2001) 48%: Both films were critiqued for weak storytelling and underdeveloped characters, despite rich visuals and nods to Disney history.

Home on the Range (2005) 51%: Three cows attempt to save their farm, entertaining yet largely forgettable.

Oliver & Company (1988) 52%: A modern take on Oliver Twist with a musical twist, praised for its animation but not considered a standout classic.

Mid-Tier Films

Pocahontas (1995) & Robin Hood (1973) 58%: Both films have interesting premises but were criticized for historical inaccuracies and muted storytelling.

Moana 2 (2024) 60%: The sequel focuses on adventure and reconnecting cultures, though critics found it less compelling than the original.

The Aristocats (1970) 64%: A tale of cats and romance, enjoyable but not particularly memorable.

Dinosaur (2000) & The Sword in the Stone (1963) 65%: Both films received mixed reviews for pacing and animation quality, despite their adventurous plots.

Meet the Robinsons (2007) & Treasure Planet (2002) 68%: Praised for creativity and animation, though considered uneven in execution.

Strange World (2022) 72%: Focuses on a family of explorers navigating a subterranean world; imaginative but uneven.

Higher-Ranked Classics

The Fox and the Hound (1981) 75%: A bittersweet story of friendship challenged by nature, notable for emotional depth.

Frozen II (2019) 77%: Explores Elsas powers and the mysteries of her kingdom, with strong musical moments.

Peter Pan (1953) & The Great Mouse Detective (1986) 78%: Adventure-packed tales with enduring charm and engaging characters.

The Rescuers (1977) 79%: Bernard and Bianca embark on a rescue mission, a warm and entertaining story.

The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996) 80%: A dark yet compelling adaptation of Victor Hugos novel, praised for visual energy and narrative depth.

Hercules (1997) 83%: A playful retelling of the Greek myth, blending humor and heroism.

Alice in Wonderland (1951) 84%: Whimsical adaptation of Lewis Carrolls classic, appreciated for its creativity despite uneven pacing.

The Rescuers Down Under (1990) 85%: A sequel with high adventure and beautifully crafted animation.

Top-Tier Favorites

The Princess and the Frog (2009), The Emperors New Groove (2000), & Lilo & Stitch (2002) 86%: Celebrated for humor, creativity, and engaging characters.

Wreck-It Ralph (2012) 87%: A fun story of video game characters seeking heroism beyond their programming.

The Jungle Book (1967) & Ralph Breaks the Internet (2018) 88%: Classic adventures with enduring songs and engaging stories.

Ichabod and Mr. Toad (1949), Tangled (2010), & Frozen (2013) 89%: Beloved tales combining strong characters with memorable music and animation.

Tarzan (1999), Sleeping Beauty (1959), Bolt (2008), & Winnie the Pooh (2011) 90%: Each film offers unique charm, adventure, and music that resonate across generations.

Mulan (1998), Bambi (1942), Lady and the Tramp (1955) 91%: Powerful storytelling with iconic animation and lasting emotional impact.

The Little Mermaid (1989), Encanto (2021), & The Lion King (1994) 92%: Classics combining unforgettable music, rich visuals, and compelling narratives.

Raya and the Last Dragon (2021) & Zootopia 2 (2025) 93%: Modern adventures with strong protagonists and cultural depth.

Beauty and the Beast (1991), Dumbo (1941), Moana (2016), & Cinderella (1950) 95%: Legendary films that define the Disney magic with timeless storytelling and music.

Aladdin (1992) 96%: Renowned for Robin Williams performance as Genie and enchanting world-building.

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937) 97%: Disneys first animated feature, still enchanting with its pioneering animation and storytelling.

One Hundred and One Dalmatians (1961) & Zootopia (2016) 98%: Innovatively crafted stories with iconic villains and richly imagined worlds.

The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh (1977) & Pinocchio (1940) 100%: Timeless masterpieces exemplifying Disney's artistry, emotional depth, and magical storytelling.

Author: Sophia Brooks