Who doesn’t remember waking up on a weekend morning to Mickey Mouse and his adventures? Behind so many of our favourite childhood memories is The Walt Disney Company, which has produced hundreds of movies over the decades. Here’s our pick of 5 of the best classic Disney movies to watch with the family — perfect for a rainy day when you need a cosy afternoon indoors. Is your favourite on the list?
Walt Disney, born in 1901, was reportedly a shy man who lacked confidence in his early years. Along with his brother Roy, he went on to found the Walt Disney Company in 1923. The first film he ever produced was Alice’s Wonderland, a silent black-and-white short that marked the beginning of an era that has touched the hearts of millions of families since.
Mickey Mouse came along a few years later — the warm-hearted mouse who’s always eager to help his friends and stand up for what’s right is said to have been inspired by 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 history — let’s get to our favourite Disney movies to watch as a family.
You May Also Enjoy: 99 Truly Magical Disney Baby Names
#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.
This one tops our list because, despite its tough opening, it teaches children that you don’t always get what you want straight away — sometimes you have to work for what you need.
You May Also Enjoy: Top 10 Classic Films to Watch with Children
#2. The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh (1977)
This is a must-see for the whole family. Pooh and his friends always seem to land in some kind of mishap, whether it’s Winnie getting stuck in Rabbit’s front door after one snack too many, or the gang searching for Eeyore’s missing tail. Kids of every age love watching them muddle their way through to a happy ending.
You May Also Enjoy: 50 of The Best Family Movies of All Time
#3. Hocus Pocus (1993)
https://youtu.be/Mi2JpQgHAQI
This 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 to watch together, especially around Halloween.
#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 later regrets, the spirits transform him into a bear as a consequence. The transformation scene is a real standout, with stunning colour and sound. It’s a feel-good watch suitable for all ages.
You May Also Enjoy: David Beckham Builds Lego Disney Castle
#5. Fantasia (1940)
https://youtu.be/LpKA9n-75tQ
No list of Disney classics would be complete without Fantasia. Made in 1940, it’s a collection of eight segments set to classical music, originally conducted by Leopold Stokowski. Mickey Mouse takes centre stage in one segment as the Sorcerer’s Apprentice, with a few magical mishaps along the way.
Its sequel, Fantasia 2000, was released in 1999 and is also a wonderful watch for the whole family. It keeps Mickey as the Sorcerer’s Apprentice but adds seven new segments, with conductor James Levine leading the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.
Your own list of favourite Disney movies might look quite different from ours — but they all share the same magic: the ability to touch and inspire us in some way.
What are your family’s favourite Disney movies? Share them with us in the comments below.
FAQs: Classic Disney Movies for Family Movie Night
What age group are these classic Disney movies suitable for?
Most of these films work well for a wide age range, though a few scenes (particularly in Bambi) can be intense for very young or sensitive children. It’s worth previewing anything you’re unsure about before watching together as a family.
Are these classic Disney movies available to stream right now?
Availability changes over time and varies by region and streaming service, so it’s worth checking your usual platform closer to movie night to see what’s currently on offer.
Is Hocus Pocus too scary for younger kids?
Hocus Pocus is more of a family comedy than a true horror film, but it does have some spooky moments and mild peril. Parents of younger or easily spooked children may want to watch it with them first.
Why do these older Disney films still hold up for kids today?
Great storytelling, memorable characters and timeless themes like friendship, courage and family don’t go out of date — which is exactly why these classics are still worth a place in family movie nights today.
Related Reads
- 99 Truly Magical Disney Baby Names
- Top 10 Classic Films to Watch with Children
- 50 of The Best Family Movies of All Time
- David Beckham Builds Lego Disney Castle
Save This for Your Next Rainy Day
Not sure when you’ll get around to movie night? Bookmark this list now so you’ve got it ready the next time you need an easy, cosy activity for a rainy afternoon at home.
Don’t Miss Our Weekly Ideas
Want more family movie picks, activity ideas and days out delivered straight to your inbox? Sign up for our free newsletter for weekly ideas, competitions and offers — it only takes a minute, and it’s completely free.
