Best Disney Animated Features Based on Fairy Tales: 1940s-1990s

In 1937, the cinematic adaptation of "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" became the first full-length cel-animated feature in motion picture history. Adding to its historical firsts, it was also the first full-color production in America and the very first offering of the Walt Disney Animated Classics canon. Leading to more pioneering feats for Disney, this film became a jump-start offering for the future family-friendly animated movies of the studio.

It's quite difficult to single out the best animated film coming from any time period because of the varying factors that make many works considerably incomparable with one another. Often times they individually shine in their own best forms. Yet, when taking into consideration these movies' formats, source materials, family-friendly values, critical and general audience reviews, and box office success, choosing the best ones per decade becomes more feasible. These criteria validate the creation of a particular list of the best Disney animated pieces covering more than 50 years of cinema.

1940s: "Pinocchio" (1940)

"Pinocchio," Disney's follow-up to "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs," ushered a new, promising decade when it comes to showcasing further cinematic developments of animated features. Based on the 1883 story from Carlo Collodi's "The Adventures of Pinocchio," this screen adaptation is a coming-of-age film about a living puppet who must prove himself worthy to become a real boy. This critically acclaimed offering features delightful sound and visuals, touching characters, and a great moral lesson for kids.

1950s: "Cinderella" (1950)

"Cinderella" is another nostalgic charmer from Disney. Based on the popular fairy tale with origins coming from varying cultures and literary works, the core of its iconic story embodies how a person's goodness can find ways to reap rewards no matter how much oppression strikes. For this classic film, its appealing colors, sweet songs, and adorable characters continue to maintain popularity in today's modern culture.

1960s: "The Jungle Book" (1967)

The expressive animation, fun characters, and catchy songs of "The Jungle Book" make it stand out among the many animated offerings of the 1960s. Its story is inspired by the Rudyard Kipling book of the same title. This emotionally rich piece features the adventure of feral child Mowgli and how his animal friends convince him to leave the jungle to start a new life with human civilization.

1970s: "The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh" (1977)

"The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh" is a charmingly faithful adaptation of the stories and characters of A.A. Milne. This motion picture showcases a heart-warming collection of animated shorts about Pooh and his Hundred Acre Wood friends. It captures the innocent delights of its source material through the use of storybook-style animation filled with endearing characters and environments.

1980s: "The Little Mermaid" (1989)

"The Little Mermaid" is loosely based on Hans Christian Andersen's Danish fairy tale about a mermaid princess who longs to be with humans. It is a coming-of-age fable featuring engaging scenes that can please both children and adults. From its delightful animation to its catchy musical sequences, this animated movie allows viewers to immerse themselves with the breathtaking and sentimental journey of Ariel and the rest of the characters.

1990s: "Beauty and the Beast" (1991)

"Beauty and the Beast" features the timeless fairy tale about a young prince who is transformed into an ugly beast and the beautiful lady imprisoned in his castle. Filled with memorable musical numbers and elegant animation, this Disney piece is an enchanting and sweepingly romantic classic. Its success as a critically acclaimed film also led to a largely popular and record-breaking stage musical adaptation.

Heading to the movies? Get an instant mobile coupon to use at select theaters for free popcorn!