2020 saw Disney+ continue its steady growth into becoming arguably the top streaming service in the world. One of the major reasons for that was the release of several notable feature films. That included ones always intended to head to Disney+ and some who were put there because movie theaters were mostly closed during the year.
Some of these releases, like Artemis Fowl and Mulan, weren't met with a strong reception from fans or critics. However, there were a handful of movies to hit the streaming service that audiences enjoyed, especially based on the strong ratings they scored over on IMDb.
Stargirl (6.2)
Not to be confused with the Arrowverse superhero series that also premiered in 2020, this Stargirl is much different in terms of premise. Based on a novel of the same name from 2000, this focuses on the titular free-spirited Stargirl, who is new to a high school and forms a bond with an unassuming boy who has had it rough.
Stargirl arrived on the streaming service on March 13. While not considered any kind of Disney classic, Julia Hart's direction was praised, as was the nostalgic tone and the message of non-conformity that the tale spreads.
Godmothered (6.2)
One of the most recent releases on this list is Godmothered. It hit Disney+ just in time for the holidays on December 4. This delivers a fun twist on the expected fantasy trope, as it follows a fairy godmother who struggles with her skills and looks to prove herself by helping a grown woman with her problems.
The unique setup to this works on its own but it is made better because of the leads. Jillian Bell and Isla Fisher are delightful together and the movie features a fair amount of self-aware humor. The leads had such a good time together that they've already discussed making a sequel.
Black Beauty (6.3)
Based on a novel of the same name written all the way back in 1877, this Black Beauty was actually not the first adaptation. 1994 saw one come to theaters with the likes of Sean Bean and David Thewlis featured, though it didn't do much in terms of box office success.
Starring the talented Mackenzie Foy and Kate Winslet, this Black Beauty take was met with mixed reviews. The story centers on the relationship forged between a wild horse and a teenage girl that lasts a lifetime. The film arrived on Disney+ on November 27.
Magic Camp (6.3)
If you put Adam DeVine in a movie, there's bound to be some fun to be had. That's part of the charm that made Magic Camp work so well. Released directly to the streaming service on August 14, the film also boasts a supporting cast including Gillian Jacobs and Jeffrey Tambor.
The movie centers around Andy (DeVine), a former struggling magician who returns to his old magic camp as a counselor at the behest of his old mentor and the camp's owner. While there, he bonds with a young aspiring magician in a heartwarming tale.
The One And Only Ivan (6.7)
After several entries based on lighthearted fantasy tales comes one that is a bit more serious in its tone. Originally intended to be shown in theaters, The One and Only Ivan ended up being moved to Disney+ and was released there for everyone on August 21.
Right off the bat, the cast stands out being led by Bryan Cranston and featuring the voices of Sam Rockwell and Angelina Jolie. Inspired by a true story and based on a kids' book of the same name, it tells the story of a gorilla who works together with an elephant to remember his past and escape from captivity.
Safety (6.8)
Sticking with dramatic stories, there's Safety. This film focuses on the real-life story of football player Ray McElrathbey. With his home life being unsteady, McElrathbey secretly raised his little brother on his college campus while playing for the Clemson Tigers.
Hitting Disney+ on December 11, it continued the tradition of films like Remember The Titans in terms of telling an emotional sports tale. It was noted that this hit on familiar beats but still worked due to the performances, plot, and the uplifting nature of it all.
Phineas And Ferb The Movie: Candace Against The Universe (7.2)
One of the most beloved television series from the 2010s available on Disney+ is Phineas and Ferb. The animated show ran from 2007 until 2015, spanning over 200 episodes. It mainly focused on the wacky adventures of two brothers during summer vacation.
On August 28, Phineas and Ferb the Movie: Candace Against the Universe hit Disney+. It sees the titular heroes trying to save their sister from another planet, only for her to consider staying due to how she is treated there. It holds a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and was right in line with what made the series work.
Clouds (7.5)
It certainly feels like this movie flew under the radar more than most of the others on this list. Based on Laura Sobiech's memoir Fly a Little Higher: How God Answered a Mom's Small Prayer in a Big Way, this musical drama arrived on October 16.
This emotional tale follows Zach Sobiech, a young musician who decides to make an album after finding out that his cancer has spread. It ends up becoming a bigger sensation than he could've imagined. The song "Clouds" shot up to the top of the iTunes chart thanks to the movie.
Soul (8.2)
The most recent entry on this list arrived on Disney+ on December 25. Initially slated for a theatrical release, Soul is the latest film from the incredible folks over at Pixar. As usual for the production company, it succeeded due to the screenplay, voice acting, visuals, creativity, and music.
Soul centers on a struggling jazz musician who is sent to the "Great Beyond" after an accident just before his big break. He then works together with an infant soul to reunite his body with his own soul. Things go awry at every turn and the two form an unexpected bond.
Hamilton (8.6)
Ever since Hamilton hit the stage in 2015, it seems like it's all anyone who saw it could talk about. Written completely by Lin-Manuel Miranda and based on the 2004 Alexander Hamilton biography, this play was finally set to come to theaters in 2021. However, it was moved up to Disney+ in July.
This version featured the original cast and was a live stage recording. That allows viewers to feel like they're in the theater with the addition of perfect camera cuts to catch every bit of choreography and emotion. It's remarkable to see Miranda, Daveed Diggs, Phillipa Soo, Renée Elise Goldsberry, Leslie Odom Jr., and everyone else at their very best.