60+ Disney Movies That Are Good: The Ultimate 2026 Watchlist

What’s New in 2026: The Essential Watchlist

• The Fantastic Four: First Steps (2026): The highly anticipated MCU reboot led by Pedro Pascal, focusing on a retro-future aesthetic.
• Elio (June 2026): Pixar’s latest cosmic adventure about a boy who becomes Earth’s ambassador to the stars.
• Tron: Ares (2026): Jared Leto stars in this long-awaited expansion of the grid, pushing the boundaries of CGI and electronic soundtracks.
• Hoops (Disney+ Original): A new high-energy sports drama exploring the gritty reality of collegiate basketball.
• Toy Story 5 (Late 2026): Woody and Buzz return to navigate a world of modern tech and the digital toy era.
• The Mandalorian & Grogu: The first theatrical Star Wars release in years, bringing the iconic duo to the big screen.
• Live-Action Moana: A visual spectacle starring Dwayne Johnson, reimagining the 2016 classic for a new generation.
• Frozen 3: Continuing the Arendelle saga with a deeper focus on the origins of Elsa's magic.
• Hoppers: Pixar’s quirky upcoming film about a girl who swaps brains with a beaver to go undercover in the animal kingdom.
• Zootopia 2 (November 2025/Early 2026): Judy and Nick return to tackle a new case involving a mysterious reptile.

### Latest Signals (24h)

• Production Update: Final post-production rendering for Elio has officially begun at Pixar Animation Studios as of January 2026.
• Trailer Drop: The second teaser for The Fantastic Four: First Steps hit 50M views in under 12 hours, signaling massive hype according to What’s on Disney Plus.
• Platform Shift: Disney+ announces a new "4K Curator Mode" specifically for the 2026 slate to enhance visual fidelity on home theaters.

You are standing in front of the TV, the blue glow of the Disney+ home screen reflecting in your tired eyes. You’ve had a long day, and all you want is one good movie to help you decompress, but the "Recommended for You" rail feels like a chaotic labyrinth. This is the 'Shadow Pain' of the streaming era: having everything at your fingertips but feeling like you have nothing to watch.

We’re moving past the scroll fatigue. Finding disney movies that are good isn't just about high Rotten Tomatoes scores; it's about matching the film's frequency to your current mental state. Whether you need the 'Dopamine Hit' of a new Marvel release or the 'Emotional Safety' of a Pixar classic, this guide is designed to be your curated shortcut to the best 2026 has to offer.

The Pixar Protocol: Emotional Intelligence Through Animation

• Inside Out 2: A masterclass in emotional complexity, introducing 'Anxiety' as a central character—perfect for the 25-34 demographic.
• Coco: A visual and psychological exploration of legacy and the importance of ancestral connection.
• Ratatouille: The ultimate film for the 'imposter syndrome' era, proving that talent can come from anywhere.
• Soul: A deep dive into the 'flow state' and the difference between having a career and having a purpose.
• Up: An exploration of grief and the resilience of the human spirit through a whimsical lens.
• Turning Red: A necessary look at intergenerational trauma and the messiness of growing up.
• Wall-E: A silent-film-inspired critique of consumerism that remains Pixar’s most hauntingly beautiful work.
• The Incredibles: A family systems analysis disguised as a superhero movie.
• Finding Nemo: A study in helicopter parenting and the necessity of letting go.
• Toy Story 3: The definitive cinematic treatment of transition and the bittersweet nature of moving on.

Pixar movies work because they utilize 'emotional mirroring.' By personifying abstract concepts like joy, fear, or purpose, these films allow adults to process their own feelings in a safe, third-party narrative space. When you watch Inside Out 2, you aren't just watching a cartoon; you are witnessing a neurobiological map of your own stress responses.

This mechanism is why Pixar often hits harder for the 25-34 age group than for children. While kids enjoy the slapstick, adults recognize the 'Shadow Self' in the characters' struggles. To maximize the psychological benefit, pair these films with a 'distraction-free' environment to allow the narrative arc to complete its emotional release cycle.

Marvel Cinematic Universe: Beyond the Cape

• The Fantastic Four: First Steps: The 2026 crown jewel for those seeking a fresh start for the MCU.
• Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3: A high-energy space opera that deals heavily with empathy and found family.
• Spider-Man: No Way Home: The ultimate nostalgia trip that manages to be a coherent, high-stakes drama.
• Black Panther: Wakanda Forever: A powerful exploration of collective mourning and political responsibility.
• Avengers: Endgame: The massive, 3-hour payoff that rewards long-term emotional investment.
• Captain America: The Winter Soldier: A tight political thriller that happens to have a super-soldier in it.
• Iron Man: The grounded, character-driven origin story that started it all.
• Thor: Ragnarok: A vibrant, comedic pivot that proves Marvel can laugh at itself.
• Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings: Incredible choreography meets a deep father-son conflict.
• Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness: For those who want a touch of horror in their superhero diet.

When looking for disney movies that are good within the MCU, look for the 'Auteur Signal.' Directors like James Gunn or Ryan Coogler bring a specific thumbprint that elevates these films above standard action fare. These movies serve as 'High-Energy Logic' puzzles—they satisfy the need for complex world-building while delivering the visceral thrill of a well-executed battle sequence.

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the sheer volume of Marvel content, stick to the 'Standalone Gems' like Guardians or Iron Man. These don't require a PhD in comic book history to enjoy; they are simply great cinema that happens to feature capes. Check out the latest critical consensus on Wired to see how the new 2026 entries are shifting the rankings.

The Data-Driven Choice: Comparing Critical vs. Audience Scores

Using a 'Critical-Audience Matrix' helps bypass the bias of professional critics who might miss the 'heart' of a film. When the Audience Score is significantly higher than the Tomatometer, it usually indicates a 'Comfort Watch'—a movie that may have technical flaws but excels in emotional resonance. Conversely, when the Critic Score leads, expect a more challenging, thought-provoking experience.

According to the NYT review archives, Disney's 2026 strategy is leaning heavily into narrowing this gap, ensuring that 'good' movies satisfy both the technical critic and the casual Sunday-night viewer. This alignment is the 'Gold Standard' for movie night success.

The Renaissance Era: Why the 90s Classics Still Rule

• The Lion King (1994): The peak of the Disney Renaissance; Shakespeare in the Savannah.
• Beauty and the Beast (1991): A masterclass in pacing and musical integration.
• Aladdin (1992): High-energy comedy led by the legendary Robin Williams.
• The Little Mermaid (1989): The film that proved Disney could still dominate the cultural zeitgeist.
• Mulan (1998): A powerful subversion of the 'damsel in distress' trope.
• Hercules: The most underrated visual style in the Disney canon, inspired by Greek pottery.
• Tarzan: Featuring an elite Phil Collins soundtrack that still hits 20+ years later.
• Lilo & Stitch: A grounded look at grief and 'Ohana' that feels remarkably modern.
• The Emperor’s New Groove: The funniest, most quotable movie in the entire library.
• Peter Pan: A classic look at the 'Man-Child' archetype that serves as a fascinating psychological study today.

Nostalgia acts as a 'Neural Blanket.' When you revisit these disney movies that are good, your brain releases oxytocin because you are interacting with a 'known safe' variable. This is why we re-watch The Lion King for the 50th time when we’re stressed. It’s not just a movie; it’s a form of emotional regulation that reminds us of a time when the world felt smaller and more manageable.

To make these feel fresh, try watching with the 'Director’s Commentary' or looking for the hidden 'Easter Eggs' that link the 90s era to the new 2026 releases. Even the Rotten Tomatoes 2026 leaderboards still see these classics trending during holiday seasons, proving their evergreen status.

Star Wars & Live-Action: The Adult Disney Experience

• Andor (Season 1/2 as a Movie Cut): The most 'adult' Star Wars content ever made, focusing on the mechanics of rebellion.
• The Empire Strikes Back: Still the gold standard for cinematic sequels and character development.
• Rogue One: A gritty war film that adds immense weight to the original trilogy.
• A New Hope: The ultimate 'Hero’s Journey' template used in psychology and literature.
• Cinderella (2015): A live-action remake that actually improves on the original by giving the lead more agency.
• Cruella: A stylish, punk-rock origin story that works as a high-fashion heist movie.
• Maleficent: A psychological re-framing of a villain through the lens of trauma and betrayal.
• The Jungle Book (2016): A technical marvel that brings a 'National Geographic' intensity to the fable.
• Christopher Robin: A touching look at 'Adult Onset Cynicism' and the cure for it.
• Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny: A legacy sequel that deals with aging and the relevance of the past.

Choosing between a live-action remake and a Star Wars epic depends on your 'Sensory Load' capacity. Live-action remakes like Cruella or Maleficent are visually dense and fashion-forward, stimulating the aesthetic centers of the brain. Star Wars, particularly the newer 'grounded' entries like Andor or Rogue One, engages the 'Systems Thinking' part of the brain, asking you to consider the ethics of power and resistance.

If you're looking for disney movies that are good but want to avoid the 'cartoon' stigma, these live-action and sci-fi entries are your bridge to a more sophisticated viewing experience. They provide the 'Glow-Up' the Disney brand needed to keep 25-34 year olds subscribed long after the kids have gone to bed.

FAQ

1. What is the number 1 rated Disney movie?

The highest-rated Disney movie on Rotten Tomatoes is technically 'Pinocchio' (1940) with a 100% score, though 'Toy Story' and 'The Lion King' are often cited as the #1 movies based on a combination of critical acclaim and cultural impact.

In 2026, many fans consider 'Inside Out 2' the top modern choice due to its perfect balance of humor and emotional intelligence for adults.

2. What are some good non-animated movies on Disney Plus?

There are several excellent non-animated options, including 'Cruella,' 'Rogue One: A Star Wars Story,' 'Hamilton,' and 'National Treasure.' For a more serious tone, 'The Straight Story' or 'Remember the Titans' are highly recommended.

If you want something with a 2026 edge, 'The Fantastic Four: First Steps' is the premier live-action choice currently trending.

3. What new Disney movies are coming out in 2026?

Major 2026 releases include 'Elio' from Pixar, 'The Fantastic Four: First Steps' from Marvel, 'Tron: Ares,' and the live-action reimagining of 'Moana.'

'Toy Story 5' and 'Frozen 3' are also on the horizon, though their exact streaming dates depend on their theatrical windows earlier in the year.

4. Which Pixar movie is best for a 5-year-old?

For a 5-year-old, 'Cars' or 'Finding Nemo' are excellent because they offer high visual stimulation and simple, clear moral lessons about friendship and bravery.

'Toy Story' is also a staple for this age group, though 'Inside Out' might be better saved for when they are 7 or 8 and can understand the emotional concepts better.

5. Are there any Marvel movies that are actually good for adults?

Yes, Marvel movies like 'Captain America: The Winter Soldier,' 'Black Panther,' and 'Logan' (available in many regions) offer mature themes, complex political subtext, and high-quality cinematography that appeals to adults.

'The Fantastic Four: First Steps' in 2026 is also being marketed with a more sophisticated, retro-futurist vibe that targets an older audience.

6. What are the best classics to watch on Disney+?

The best classics to watch include 'The Lion King,' 'Beauty and the Beast,' 'Aladdin,' and 'The Little Mermaid.' These films from the Disney Renaissance offer the best music and storytelling.

For a deeper cut, try 'Fantasia' or 'Sleeping Beauty' for their incredible artistry and orchestral scores.

7. What is the best movie on Disney Plus right now?

Right now, 'The Fantastic Four: First Steps' and 'Inside Out 2' are the most talked-about movies on the platform. If you want a documentary style, the 'Taylor Swift: Eras Tour' remains a top-trending choice.

Always check the 'New to Disney+' section for 2026 originals that may have dropped in the last 30 days.

8. Which Disney movies have the highest Rotten Tomatoes scores?

Movies with 95% or higher scores include 'Toy Story' (100%), 'Zootopia' (98%), 'Finding Nemo' (99%), and 'Mary Poppins' (96%).

These high scores generally indicate a movie that is universally loved by critics for its structure, pacing, and originality.

9. Is Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny on Disney Plus?

Yes, 'Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny' is currently streaming on Disney+. It serves as a great legacy watch for fans of the original trilogy.

It explores themes of time and aging, making it a surprisingly poignant watch for the 25-34 demographic.

10. What are some underrated gems on Disney+?

Underrated gems include 'The Emperor's New Groove' for comedy, 'Treasure Planet' for its unique aesthetic, and 'A Goofy Movie' for its incredibly relatable father-son dynamic.

'The Rocketeer' is also a fantastic live-action choice that often gets overlooked by mainstream audiences.

References

wired.com — The 70 Best Movies on Disney+ Right Now

rottentomatoes.com — Best Movies on Disney+ (2026)

nytimes.com — The 50 Best TV Shows and Movies on Disney+ Right Now

whatsondisneyplus.com — Top 50 Best Movies On Disney+ (January 2026)