It doesn't take a genius to figure out that Disney is a titan of a studio, especially with their magical empire of award-winning films and series. That being said, they've always been pioneers of the industry, but certain films have a reputation being released ahead of the curve.
With that in mind, as the world's collective culture changes over the course of time, so does the impressions of various forms of media. Whether it's through their message or other means, certain features are more relevant today than when they premiered. Take a look at these flicks that premiered before their time.
Fantasia (1940)
While it was praised for its artistic merit, Walt Disney's passion project was not quite as successful as the features that came before it. However, as time went on, the film became known as one of the first animated art flicks upon various re-releases.
Finding its ideal audience in the psychedelic '60s, Fantasia has since blossomed into one of the most beautiful films in the studio's history and has since been regarded as Disney's first adult-oriented feature.
Saving Mr. Banks (2013)
Despite the studio's clean-cut and family-friendly exterior, Disney is not infallible. That being said, at least they're willing to admit it.
Though Saving Mr. Banks - a movie about the creative process behind the cinematic adaptation of Mary Poppins - takes more than a few narrative liberties with the relationship between Walt Disney and P.L.Travers, it still shows that their beloved founder wasn't all pixie dust. In an era where the company has its hand in more than a few pies much to many detractors' chagrin, Saving Mr. Banks serves as a sort of reminder that Disney always gets what it wants.
The Lion King (1994)
The Lion King might not seem like a good fit for the list, but it's more complicated than that. With the slew of live-action-remakes Disney has released in an attempt to cash in on the nostalgia factor, this animated masterpiece stands as a testament to what the company can do when they stay original.
Even with its own remake, the original The Lion King has stood the test of time. This one was a success because Disney was just being Disney.
Tangled (2010)
Though it takes a few notes from films like The Princess Bride, beneath the fantasy adventure lies a message that both kids and adults should pay attention to.
The subject of abusive relationships really isn't what most would call Disney magic, but Rapunzel's interactions with both Flynn and Mother Gothel illustrate the matter beautifully. In a time where relationships are being examined more closely, this is a perfect way to introduce the concept to young viewers.
Mary Poppins (1964)
Mary Poppins herself isn't the subject of interest here, but Mr. Banks. The workaholic father is Disney's warning to adults (parents or otherwise) about becoming too involved with one's career or work at the expense of what's really important in life: family and the simple joys of having fun.
Ambition is an admirable quality, but Mr. Banks's identity lies in his job, right down to his last name. Mr. Banks's redemption should remind all viewers that there are relationships and lives outside their vocations, something most modern audiences need.
Beauty & the Beast (1992)
Unlikely relationships are essentially commonplace in various Disney flicks, and while Belle and her Beast are certainly the epitome of Disney romances, the message of internal and external beauty bears repeating today.
Concerning the characters of Gaston and the Beast, a rewatch of this animated masterpiece reminds all viewers to evaluate the qualities of potential romantic partners. That gorgeous match on Tinder might be only as burly and brawny as their photos let them be!
Big Hero 6 (2014)
Mental health is a subject of discussion that is still growing, but some fans seem to forget that Disney tackled it quite touchingly in Big Hero 6.
Behind the animated comic book action and brightly colored costumes, Hiro's personal healthcare companion makes it his prime directive to help Hiro process his grief over Tadashi in a healthy way, as well as bring his killer to justice without destruction. Clever move, Disney.
A Bug’s Life (1998)
Systematic oppression and the Seven Samurai, that's what served as the backbone in this Pixar flick. Whether viewers knew it or not, the tale of ants and grasshoppers wasn't just a Disney take on a Kurosawa classic, but a metaphor for how one individual can take a stand for the rights of many.
As the lead grasshopper Hopper says, "You let one ant stand up to us, then they all might stand up." What a message for opposing a swarm of grasshoppers or a corrupt system coming from the bad guys themselves!
The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996)
What can be said about this film that hasn't been already? The Hunchback of Notre Dame is the studio's most mature and thought-provoking animated offering to date, as it deals in themes of oppression, religion, lust, and corruption of power.
And all the while, it tells a non-conventional Disney story that would sell-out theaters if it were released today. It can certainly stand toe-to-toe with the top spot of the most family friendly features.
Zootopia (2016)
Disney's Zootopia is the one movie that modern audiences need right now. In 2020's intense social and political climates, thousands of people need to be reminded of the message this animated masterpiece dished out just a few short years ago.
The world's always been broken and divided by terrible prejudices brought about by societal and systematic wrongs, but that's exactly why viewers of all ages need good-hearted individuals like Judy and Nick to show that character should stand above stereotypes and misconceptions.