10 best animated films from the Disney Renaissance

1. The Lion King

Long live the King! The 1994 classic animated movie has not only one of the best (and most tragic) storylines of all the films created during this time period, but it also has one of the best soundtracks. It doesn’t hurt that Elton John along with Tim Rice created the music for the film.

But while the music is everything, the story is what really grabbed people’s hearts. You immediately connect with Simba’s need to be like his father but also to enjoy being a kid. Unfortunately for Simba (and the audience), his father’s life is cut short.

Being the king of Pride Rock comes with plenty of enemies and one of them is Simba’s uncle, Scar. When a stampede of wildebeest runs through a gorge where Simba is waiting, his father goes to save him only to fall to his death. It turns out this was all set up by Scar.

Simba goes on to think he is responsible for his father’s death and runs away from the life he once knew. Luckily, he comes along a couple of animals that turn into great friends. Timon and Pumbaa might be the comedy relief in the film, but they also teach Simba a lesson. It might be all about “no worries” but you can’t run from your past.

While he was gone, Scar took over Pride Rock and  ruined the land which led to many animals starving. His old friend (and possible girlfriend), Nala, tells him that he must take back what is rightfully his and undo Scar’s damage or they will all suffer. He reluctantly agrees.

The Lion King came out 15 years ago. Just in time for the anniversary, a new CGI remake is scheduled to be released July 19, 2019. It stars Chiwetel Ejiofor, Seth Rogen, Beyoncé, Billy Eichner, Donald Glover, James Earl Jones, Keegan Michael-Key, and John Oliver. Based on the trailer, it’s going to be just as epic as the original.

What’s your top Disney Renaissance film?