Now that the conditions outside are a little too cold and snowy, it’s that time of year to snuggle in your bed with a warm hot chocolate while watching your favorite movies. There’s no better time than now to bring out your inner kid and turn on a fun Disney movie. But which one?
“The Lion King” is one of the highest-grossing animated films of all time, and with a celebrated musical score, Disney’s 1994 family film continues, and no doubt will do so forever, to enchant and entertain audiences. The story of the honored lion prince Simba follows him as he journeys through his happy childhood, which suddenly turns tragic with the murder of his father by his evil uncle, Scar. Simba’s exile and triumphant return incorporates elements of the Bible and African folk legends, along with classic mythology to produce a thrilling, wonderfully told tale that is timeless.
“Aladdin,” the 1992 Disney animation, is adapted from a classic Arabian folktale. The film version is generally faithful to the original story. However, improvisation and modernization serve to create a more contemporary feel. The street-smart Aladdin and his pet monkey are regulars along the city streets, but when, by chance, they encounter Princess Jasmine, things begin to change. Looked upon unfavorably by the Sultan’s top henchman, the evil Jafar, Aladdin winds up tossed in jail, as well as finding himself in the middle of Jafar’s plot to take over the kingdom with the aid of a magic lamp. The late Robin Williams lends his voice to this animation, which makes it even more legendary.
“Finding Nemo,” a 2003 Disney animation, is an ocean tale about a father and son clownfish, Marlin and Nemo. The two are separated when a scuba diver snags Nemo and takes him away to live in an aquarium in a dentist’s office. Marlin and Nemo frantically plot ways to reunite, but time isn’t on their side, as the dentist’s niece plans to take Nemo away. If Nemo doesn’t find a way out soon, he may never see his father again! This deep-sea story will take you on a scenic route through the ocean with a heart-felt story, making it a must-see film.
“Toy Story” was the first production from Walt Disney Pictures’ Pixar Studios. The film was the first to fully use CGI (Computer Generated Imagery), and is almost unanimously hailed as the benchmark film for animation. Aside from being technically revolutionary, Toy Story features a group of iconic contributors, from executive producer Steve Jobs, director John Lasseter, music by Randy Newman, and voices by actors such as Tom Hanks and Tim Allen. The film also introduces unforgettable characters such as Buzz Lightyear, Woody the cowboy and Mr. Potato Head. The critical and box-office success of Toy Story created an endless legacy of two sequels, video games, amusement park attractions, and not to mention the impact on the film industry itself. Toy Story’s dazzling graphics and timeless characters are a treat for all ages.
“Frozen,” Disney’s 2013 hit, introduces a new Disney princess, Anna the Ice Princess, joining familiar Disney characters such as Cinderella, Snow White and Sleeping Beauty. Mystical trolls, sub-zero surroundings and talking snowmen and reindeer all contribute to Anna’s adventure. Her task requires her to seek help from a rugged mountain man to assist her in rescuing her sister Elsa, who is trapped in the Kingdom of Arendelle in harsh, wintry conditions. Time is of the essence in a race to save not only Elsa, but also the helpless citizens of the frozen Kingdom.
Make yourself comfortable, put on one of these movies, and let the Disney experience take you on a ride unlike ever before.
