Sure, you've seen Frozen, Tangled, the Finding Nemo movies and every Disney classic made before 2000, but you've been missing out on some lovely movies from the 2000s that you may have seen or may have just forgotten about. These will be classics like Moulin and Cinderella someday, so you might as well hop on the fanboy/fangirl train a bit early. Here are 6 of my favorite Disney movies that you've been sleeping on.
6. The Lilo and Stitch Series
The original Lilo and Stitch came out in 2002 and had amazing, original, and memorable characters. It spawned some great sequels that show how love can be extended to those who seem too different from us to be understood or cared for, just like the original; I think this message is still very relevant today, if not more so. The television series is wonderful as well and was always so interesting for me growing up. You've gotta love Stitch and Lilo, and all the rest of the gang of humans and aliens that make these movies so unique and full of familial love and adventure into the unknown. You can watch these on Netflix too!
5. Wreck-It Ralph
If you grew up loving video games, you will deeply appreciate this movie. I know this was a big hit for many people, but this was an impactful movie for me. We've probably felt like Wreck-It Ralph before. We didn't like our lives, how we were treated, or just feeling stuck in a routine and wanting to have a little more control over our lives and make something of ourselves. Throughout his Journey, Ralph discovers a lot about his own worth and the lives of others in the video games he visits, making this a very deep and meaningful movie—for me at least. The world the movie takes place in is beautiful and immersive and the characters are relatable and honest. Just give it a watch.
4.Bridge to Terabithia
For years and years, this has been up there as one of my favorite movies of all time. I cherish the DVD copy I own. I want to name my first child "Leslie" after the main character. And, if we're being honest, I used to have the biggest crush on AnnaSophia Robb (Maybe still do). This movie is so heartfelt and captures a lot of childlike wonder and the desire for escape from life that many of us desire. It's sad and redemptive and full of realistic depictions of life and the trials that come with it. Take a little trip to Terabithia and get away from school or work. Be prepared to cry the first couple times you watch it.
3. Up
This has been another movie that's had a bit of internet resurgence or hype because the beginning is heart wrenching, but it really is an adventure of a movie that shows true love and devotion. Carl is witty and wise, Russell is hilarious and full of life. The movie has a great plot and takes you on an emotional adventure that puts you right into the movie. This may not even need to be on this list, but people really gotta give this one some respect. It's sweet and you can see so much growth in the characters from start to finish while getting some laughs and warmth in your heart.
2. Ratatouille
Look, this movie is flames. My love for Paris aside, the setting and characters in this movie really make it. Even the rats and humans who don't play long roles in the film really add to it all. I love Remy, the main character and Linguini, his human puppet. They're loveable and mesh well together to create amazing food and again show that a person shouldn't be judged by their origins or how people perceive them, but by who they want to be seen as—who they really are. The ending is magnificent and joyous, so this is a must watch.
1. Wall-E
Waaaaaaallllleeeeee. Yes, coming in at number 1 is the instant classic Wall-E. The world building in this movie is incredible. The people over at Disney managed to take a robot that can only say his own name and make him so relatable and full of life. Eve is amazing too and their robot love is truly admirable. Wall-E showcases the unconditional love we should have for people. As I said, the world this movie mostly takes place in is very interesting: a space shuttle headed for a new planet, full of obese humans who can't even walk. It's a deep story with lots of societal critique and a redemptive end. Watch them all, but if you choose one, this is it.