My name is Sydnee T. Gould, and I am a movie-holic. But I'm not like most movie addicts. I love Disney movies.
No, not the big, successful ones you're thinking about. I'm talking about the low-budget, poorly-written, truly horrible Disney TV movies. The following are a list of my personal favorites, in no particular order, as they all hold a special place in my heart.
I'd also like to note that all of the information and names in this article are completely from memory because, yes, I am that obsessed.
1. "Lemonade Mouth"
This movie is so underrated, I can't even try to begin to sell it to you. Bridget Mendler, Adam Hicks, and their band are guaranteed to have you singing along after watching the movie for the twentieth time. This is also a great feature for a college movie night... not that I would know.
2. "Rags"
Alright, this one is a Nickelodeon movie. I cheated. But Keke Palmer! That's all you really need to hear to be convinced to watch this movie. Her and Max Schneider mesh so well together in this rags-to-riches tale. If you aren't convinced yet, Drake Bell makes an appearance as well. What more could you ask for?
3. "Starstruck"
I know I said they were all my favorite, but this one is always the one I choose to watch first. Anyone who watched "Sonny With A Chance" carries the same soft spot for Sterling Knight as I do. This is the classic girl-hates-boy-wait-no-girl-likes-boy story. It's completely predictable, but the songs are some of the best I have heard, despite the autotune. But hey, it was 2010.
4. "Camp Rock"
I'm not one to go for the more popular options, like "Camp Rock" or "High School Musical", but I can remember the moment when I stumbled across "Camp Rock" airing on TV, and I decided to give it a chance. This movie may have started my love for Disney TV movies, and I haven't turned back since. Demi Lovato and the Jonas Brothers can do no wrong in my book.
5. "Let It Shine"
This movie is a case of mistaken identity meets truly horrible rap, and it is probably the most entertaining trainwreck I have ever seen. Tyler James Williams makes us wonder. Maybe everyone hated Chris because he was a horrible rapper?
6. "Cloud 9"
Four years later and I am still shipping Dove Cameron and Luke Benward. While I would usually argue that football makes the best sports movies, this is an exception. Kudos to the stunt doubles that made it look like these Disney stars could snowboard as well as they were supposed to.
7. "Teen Beach Movie"
Ah Hah! We have hit the newer movies now. Ross Lynch, ladies and gentlemen, branches out from "Austin and Ally" and finds himself on a journey with another brunette. Despite all the hate this movie gets for its terrible plot line and production, no one can deny that that boy can sing. I'm cruising for a bruising any day.
8. "Zombies"
The newest of the movies I am aware of, this is a Romeo and Juliet spin-off in a world where zombies and humans can't get along. Making sure to cover all the bases, the cheerleader and the jock join forces to change the perceptions of society. It's a few months old and I have seen it too many times to count.
Meg Donnelly and Milo Manheim are adorable together and not the worst singers in the world. Also, credit to Trevor Tordjman for embodying the lead male cheerleader. Breaking down barriers.
I can't deny that the acting is bad and the songs are worse, but these movies are genuine entertainment. Some of the songs will surprise you, and being reminded of the wholesome life lessons children are taught can be good for the soul. Don't judge a Disney TV movie by its cover.
Push play and let's judge it together.
Energetic dance performance under the spotlight.
Taylor Swift in a purple coat, captivating the crowd on stage.
Taylor Swift shines on stage in a sparkling outfit and boots.
Taylor Swift and Phoebe Bridgers sharing a joyful duet on stage.
