Though Disney has released a lot of great films throughout the years, the ‘90s, in particular, were filled with solid films. Of course, there were many animated classics released during this decade, being that the company was deep into the Disney Renaissance. That being said, there were also tons of live-action films that should not be overlooked. That’s what we’re here to focus on now. To do this, we’ll be turning to the scoring system on IMDb.
Every single Disney film released between 1990 and 1999 has received a star rating on the popular entertainment website. This score is based on the votes of registered users on a scale of one to ten.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that Shipwrecked could have qualified with a score of 6.7. Being that we have limited room, however, it’s getting a shout-out here in the intro.
With the logistics out of the way, it’s time to rewind the time and head to the movies; Here are the best Disney films of the '90s, according to IMDb.
White Fang (6.7)
Based on Jack London's novel of the same name, White Fang tells of the friendship between a gold prospector and his wolfdog during the Klondike Gold Rush in the 1890s.
The film was both a commercial and critical success, turning its budget of $14 million into $34 million. The emotions of the cast were praised as was the gorgeous scenery and beautiful soundtrack. Though the pacing was at times slow, the feel-good tone of the movie made up for any complaints.
That Darn Cat (6.7)
Disney released a thriller comedy called That Darn Cat! in 1965. In 1997, the studio released an updated version of the film with the same name.
The movie tells of the Randall sisters, Patti and Ingrid, who are constantly kept busy with the shenanigans of their cat, D.C. They soon find themselves facing a real mystery, however, after D.C. receives a secret note from a bank teller who is being held hostage.
Though the critical response to the film was low, the audience response was much higher. The sarcastic humor might have turned off some, but it attracted others.
Hocus Pocus (6.8)
Amock, amock, amock!
The Halloween classic known as Hocus Pocus hopped on a broomstick and flew into theaters in 1993. The horror-comedy tells of three witches who are accidentally brought to life by a teen boy in Salem, Massachusetts, on the evening of Halloween. It's up to Max and his friends to put an end to the sisters' chaos before they can make themselves immortal.
Though the film was criticized at the time of its release, it has since become enjoyed for its fun and style. A sequel is planned to be released onto Disney+.
Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (6.9)
This remake of 1963's The Incredible Journey tells of a bulldog, golden retriever, and cat who are dropped off at a ranch before their owners leave for a trip. Believing that they've been permanently left behind, however, the trio decides to team together and work their way back to their home.
Critics applauded the film for improving upon the original story, yet keeping the thrills simple and fun.
Newsies (7.0)
This 1992 musical tells of a group of homeless newsboys who struggle to make a living in New York City. After Joseph Pulitzer creates new restrictions for the paperboys, the guys decide to go on strike under the leadership of Jack "Cowboy" Kelly.
Though the film bombed at the box office, it attracted a large following after it had been brought to home video. Eventually, it was adapted into a Broadway stage show that received eight Tony nominations and two Tony Awards.
Muppet Treasure Island (7.0)
Robert Louis Stevenson's classic Treasure Island novel met Jim Henson's muppets in this '96 adventure comedy. Though the story told of the young Jim Hawkins who sets sail on the ocean after finding a treasure map, the characters are portrayed by iconic muppets including Kermit the Frog, Rizzo the Rat, and the Great Gonzo.
The film was enjoyed because it was fun and cheerful. The muppets added gags helped keep the plot fresh.
Cool Runnings (7.0)
Loosley based on a true story, Cool Runnings relays the tale of four eager bobsledders who set their hopes on competing in the Winter Olympics. The problem? The four have never seen snow. With a little help from a former competitor, however, they might just get the chance to make their dreams come true.
The sports comedy was successful at the box office, bringing in good ratings for its heartwarming story, solid performances, and entertaining humor.
Wild Hearts Can’t Be Broken (7.2)
This 1991 drama tells the story of the real Sonora Webster Carver, who becomes a diving horse rider. While advancing her daredevil career, Sonora falls in love with a man. Complications in her relationship, however, end up straining both her personal and professional life.
Though the actual Sonora found that the movie strayed greatly from her actual story, critics loved the film's charm and heart.
The Muppet Christmas Carol (7.7)
The muppets were back at it again in this musical retelling of Charles Dickens' classic holiday novella, A Christmas Carol. Each of the muppets took on iconic characters like Ebenezer Scrooge, Bob Crachit, and Tiny Tim as they search out the true meaning of Christmas one cold winter night.
Though A Christmas Carol has been adapted multiple times over the course of its existence, this version made changes that helped engage younger audiences. The touching story and added wit pushed the cause along.
The Straight Story (8.0)
Topping off the list as the highest-rated live-action Disney film of the '90s is this biographical road drama.
The Straight Story, which is based on the life of Alvin Straight, tells of a man who ventures from Iowa to Wisconsin on the back of a riding lawn mower in order to reach his estranged brother before he passes of a stroke.
The story received much acclaim for its beautiful and touching simplicity. It proved that a movie didn't have to have giant special effects and massive plot lines to be just as moving.