Disney, however, did not always keep on that shiny ascending path to success. Occasionally, the company had problems, especially with their box office successes once the 1990s transitioned into the new millennium. Sure, “Atlantis” and “Treasure Planet” seemed like fantastic animated adventures on paper, but when competing against the constant triumphs of Pixar and DreamWorks, both films completely flopped.
And although Disney is now reigning supreme once again with their recent acquisition of Pixar Studios and their amazing success of their teen heart throbs (such as Shia LaBeouf, Zak Efron and the Jonas Brothers), the company can still never beat the touching, box office hits of their glory days during 1990s.
Therefore, to commemorate the best movies to come out of Disney’s studios (not including their live action, family, sports and adventure films), here is a list of three must-see animated films currently playing on cable and satellite TV. Although these three can be easily found on the Disney Channel, they can be seen on one of the numerous HD movie channels as well.
“Beauty and the Beast” – Although “Up” was nominated for best picture during the last Academy Awards, “Beauty and the Beast” still holds the record as the first animated film to ever be nominated for an Oscar in that category. Released in 1991, the romantic tale of Belle and the Beast became one of Disney’s most beloved and recognized movies. With great songs and creative characters, such as talking teapots and candle sticks, the movie was a box office success and even spawned a Broadway show, which still runs on an international scale.
“Aladdin” – Disney immediately followed and captured the success of its 1991 “Beauty and the Beast” with “Aladdin” in 1992. As a classic rags to riches tale, the film follows Aladdin, a street rat, as he tries to win the heart of Princess Jasmine and out smart the evil Jafar who is trying to rule the kingdom. With the help of his Genie (voiced by the hysterical Robin Williams) and magic carpet, Aladdin transforms from a poor street dweller to a prince and fights for not only his life but for the lives of all who inhabit the land.
“Lion King” – It seemed like Disney could do no wrong in the early 1990s with their previous hits. Once the “Lion King” released in 1994, Disney officially cemented their status as the most famous animation studio on the planet. The story chronicled the life of Simba, who after believing himself to be the cause of his father’s death during a stampede flees the savannah to live in the jungle, away from his kind. But his destiny is unavoidable, and Simba soon learns the true meaning of being not only a lion, but also a king. With an unbelievable story, soundtrack and hit Broadway show, the film to this day is still considered one of Disney’s finest achievements.
From “Beauty and the Beast” to “Up”, catch up on all of the best Disney films with directtv satellite tv. The Disney channel is available with all direct tv packages. Tune in with the entire family to watch some of the best animated films ever created.
