1. Beauty and the Beast (1991)

When thinking of the most well-known, widely-loved Disney princess movie, Beauty and the Beast is the first that comes to mind. Not only does it have a decent plot, but the characters are lovable and memorable. The princess, Belle, is a character you can root for the entire movie and is not just a simpering fool who the prince must save from stupid decisions. The supporting characters are lively, and by the end of the movie, the viewers are fully invested in the story.

     2. The Princess and the Frog (2009)

This movie is a wonderful story that introduces Bayou culture, as well as, spins a humbling tale of hard work. Tiana is a determined waitress that pursues her dream while facing difficult odds. Prince Naveen learns about working to obtain what you want, while being incredibly handsome all the while. The songs are incredibly fun and the audience can’t help but sing along.

     3. Pocahontas (1995)

While not as well-known, Pocahontas cannot be overlooked. This is a brutally truthful story about what the Native Americans faced when colonists came to the New World. It does not have a classic happy ending, but you still get to enjoy the respect that the two cultures develop for one another. John Smith is a good man who learns humility, something that everyone needs and is entertaining to watch. 

     4. Tangled (2010)

The characters of this movie are what make the film memorable. The audience can’t help but love Flynn, a thief, but one with strong morals and Rapunzel, a fiery, independent girl who wants to experience the world. She is relatable in her curiosity of new experiences and the duo quickly become one the most well-loved duos. Not to mention, the action of the movie is some of the best of all princess movies as the characters face evil stepmothers, rouges, and the favorite; a charming, honorable horse.

      5. Mulan (1998)

Mulan is about as empowering of a princess movie as you will get. The audience holds a deep respect for Mulan as she nobly attempts to save her family, even though she knows she may face execution. Who doesn’t love a good hero transformation like the one where Mulan “makes a man” out of herself. By the end of the movie, she proves everyone who doubted her wrong and never once gave up, even when it was the easy thing to do. Not to mention, Mushu is one of the best characters ever with his clever humor and adorable personality.

     6. Moana (2016)

Moana is unique in its ending, but the audience can’t help but love it. At first, there was slight anger at the girl not getting the guy, but you soon come to realize that it is truly a beautiful story of friendship and family. The Hawaiian culture is magnificent, and the twist on the gods as well as nature is brilliant. The songs may not be as good as others, but it still is a fun movie to watch. Moana and Maui’s relationship is lovely to watch as they prove loyalty to each other and strengthen their friendship. Also, there’s a highly relatable chicken…who doesn’t love that?

     7. Frozen (2013)

Again, rather unconventional on the true love result, but still an amazing story nonetheless. Familial love can be overlooked, but in this movie, it takes the forefront and gets the recognition it deserves. The sisterly loyalty and blundering antics of the sidekicks portrays an admirable tale. Also, ask any kid you know to sing “Let it Go” and they will be able to sing it for you.

     8. Aladdin (1992)

Aladdin seems to be the forgotten princess movie for most people. It’s a good story and anyone who watches it wants a tiger, but for some reason, it is never remembered. Jasmine is an independent princess who everyone loves, but one can’t help but get frustrated with her bumbling father and his naivete. Genie is lovable yet petty. It is a decent enough movie to watch, but sometimes the characters can make frustrating decisions. The ending is a happy one at least.

      9. The Little Mermaid (1989)

For the Little Mermaid, either you love it or you hate it. “Under the Sea” is a classic song that most people can dance along to. However, you can’t help but feel embarrassment for Ariel as she blunders through the human world. Also, what kind of princess can’t talk? Ariel gives up her voice for a man she meets once and finds handsome. 

      10. Cinderella (1950)

Cinderella is the classic, typical princess movie that comes to mind. It has a reasonable plot with an amusing dose of magic. The transformation of beggar to beauty is any girl’s dream. However, the prince is somewhat of a bland character and the music not amazing. The group of cute animal sidekicks helps the movie and in the end, the prince is clever enough to find his princess.

      11. Sleeping Beauty (1959)

Sleeping Beauty is cute but somewhat disturbing. The evil witch is liable to give kids nightmares, either as a woman or a dragon. There seems to be one good song in the movie, but even “Once Upon a Dream” can become slightly annoying after long enough. The fact that a helpless princess needs her strong prince to fight evil and come help wake her from an eternal sleep doesn’t bode well for self-sufficient women. Also, the prince kissing Aurora while she is asleep and unawares is slightly concerning.

      12. Snow White and the Seven Dwarves (1937)

Snow White was far ahead of its time, but watching it today leads for a boring couple of hours. The plot is sparse and Snow White just does a lot of cleaning of the house she is squatting in. The first time you meet the prince, he is wandering through the woods and just happens upon the Snow White. They don’t even have a conversation, but a couple of days later he stumbles upon the poisoned princess. For some reason, he thinks it’s a good idea to kiss her even though she is believed to be gone and they have never truly met. Miraculously, she wakes up, but that’s just creepy.