Who doesn’t remember curling up on a rainy weekend to watch Mickey Mouse and his adventures? Behind so many of our best movie memories is The Walt Disney Company, which has produced hundreds of films over the years. Here’s our pick of 5 of the best classic Disney movies to watch with the family. Is your favourite on the list?
Walt Disney was reportedly a shy man who lacked confidence as a young adult. Along with his brother Roy, he went on to found the Walt Disney Company in 1923. The first movie he ever produced was Alice’s Wonderland, a silent black-and-white film that signalled the start of an era that has touched the hearts of millions.
Mickey Mouse came along a few years later — the warm-hearted little mouse who is always eager to help his friends and stand up for what’s right is reported to have been based on one of Walt’s own pet mice. Designed in 1928, Mickey was the star of the first ever cartoon with synchronised sound, and he remains the mascot of the Walt Disney Company to this day.
But enough about history — let’s get to our favourite Disney movies to watch as a family.
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#1. Bambi (1942)
Our number one pick for family movie night is Bambi. A little fawn learns early in life about the harsher side of nature, and through adventures with his friends, he finds the courage to overcome whatever comes his way.
Bambi tops our list despite its tough opening scenes, because it gently shows children that from a young age, you don’t always get what you want — sometimes you have to be brave for what you need.
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#2. The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh (1977)
A must-see for all the family. Winnie and his friends are always getting themselves into scrapes, from eating too much honey and getting stuck in Rabbit’s front door, to helping search for Eeyore’s missing tail. Kids of every age love watching them muddle through their mishaps together.
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#3 Hocus Pocus (1993)
https://youtu.be/Mi2JpQgHAQI
This Disney classic about three witches accidentally summoned back to life — and the chaos they cause trying to restore their youth — has stood the test of time. Wherever there’s a talking cat, you know something wild is about to happen. It’s not an animated film, but it’s a brilliant family comedy the whole house can enjoy together.
#4. Brother Bear (2003)
An animated film built around brotherly love and respect for all living things. When our young hero makes a choice he shouldn’t have, the spirits transform him into a bear as a consequence. The moment of transformation is a real standout — the colours and sound design are gorgeous. A genuinely feel-good movie suitable for all ages.
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#5. Fantasia (1940)
https://youtu.be/LpKA9n-75tQ
No list of classic Disney movies would be complete without Fantasia. Released in 1940, it’s a collection of eight segments set to sweeping classical music, conducted by Leopold Stokowski. Mickey Mouse stars in one of the best-loved segments as the Sorcerer’s Apprentice, with a few magical mishaps along the way.
The sequel, Fantasia 2000, keeps Mickey as the Sorcerer’s Apprentice while adding seven new segments, with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra performing under conductor James Levine. It’s just as breathtaking to watch as a family.
I’m sure your own list of favourite Disney movies looks a little different from ours — but they all share one thing in common: the ability to touch and inspire us, whatever age we are.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the best classic Disney movies to watch with the family?
Classic Disney favourites well worth revisiting together include Bambi, The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, Hocus Pocus, Brother Bear and Fantasia — each offering something different, from gentle life lessons to big laughs and stunning animation.
Are classic Disney movies suitable for younger children?
Most classic Disney films are suitable for a wide age range, though a few — like Bambi — include emotional or intense moments. It’s worth previewing a film first if you’re unsure how a younger or more sensitive child might react.
What makes a Disney movie a “classic”?
There’s no strict rule, but classic Disney movies are generally those that have remained popular across generations, blending memorable characters, music and storytelling that still resonates with families decades later.
Is Fantasia suitable for young children?
Fantasia is a visually stunning film built around classical music rather than dialogue, so younger children may need an adult alongside them to help with attention span, but it’s a wonderful introduction to both animation and orchestral music.
More Rainy Day Family Favourites
Looking for more ways to fill a rainy afternoon? You might also enjoy our roundups of the best family movies of all time, classic films for children, and fun Disney-themed ideas for the whole family — all handy for the next time the weather keeps you indoors.
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What are your family’s favourite Disney movies? Share them with us in the comments below.
