Ok, I couldn't keep it down to 5. Theres going to be 6 with a couple of honourable mentions. They are in no particular order because that's just too hard. I
love all these movies.
Now keep in mind that I base about 90% of my choices on sentiment (I am a girl after all) and movies need to have strong interesting characters for me to find them appealing over and over.
So here goes....
Mulan:
The stand out things for me in this movie are the background art, the fiery little package of Mushu, The music (particularly 'Reflections'), and above all, Mulan - a young woman of immense courage, resourcefulness, a clever mind and inner strength. (things that some of the Disney Princesses lack, which annoys me)
Alice in Wonderland:
I know lots of people don't particularly like this movie but for some odd reason, I've always loved it. Probably the Fantasy Vs Reality aspect. Mary Blairs artwork was amazing (such vibrant colours set against the black backdrop is brilliant) The eccentric imaginative language that treats English as a game rather than just something used to talk with. The Cheshire Cat is magnificent in all his michevious glory and I love the Mad Hatter ( so much so, I named my party shop after him) purely because he is nuts. And other than Mickey stuff, Mad Hatter stuff would be the second of my most treasured memorabilia (well, equal second with Donald perhaps).
Tarzan:
This has wow factor for me. Its the huge 'sets' (the deep canvas effect) the constant action, the 'greenness' and the haunting music. The very real emotions and character shown by the 'cast' also gets to me. and the best lines from the movie are:
" and Daddy, they took my boot" (Jane) - so girly in the midst of the wilderness. Cracks me up every time.
"Are you sure this water's sanitary? it looks questionable to me..."
Paranoia at its best. Love it.
The Hunchback of Notre Dame:
Such a colourful (read purple) movie to watch and yet with such a dark plot of lust and corruption of power with a baddy worthy of the title. I never tire of this movie. Some moments in this one give me chills eg: when Quasimodo holds Esmerelda in his arms and cries for sanctuary and the whole 'hellfire' scene. This is a real 'thinking' movie, even the songs make you think. Course it doesn't hurt that it is set in France.
Beauty and the Beast:
Is there anyone that doesn't like this movie? Of all the Disney Princesses, Belle is my favourite. Intelligent, inquiring and knows her own mind. The art is magnificent (particularly the stained glass window in the opening scene) as is the music. The colours are perfection and the Ballroom scene always gives me goosebumps. My favourite scene is the transformation and subsequent kiss that in my opinion is the best animated one ever. This one has real Disney Magic and a truly sigh-worthy love story ( yeah, girly, I know).
The Lion King:
Absolutely the best opening scene in a Disney Movie (With Tarzan a close second). The lavish landscapes capture the feeling of the 'pridelands' brilliantly. The music is outstanding. I love the overall theme of progression from a 'hakuna matata' lifestyle to finding your rightful place. I love Rafiki's insightful eccentricity and Timon's quips. Again the colours in the animation set the tone for me.
And the honourable mentions - Lilo and Stitch and The Little Mermaid. Both are colourful, energetic, and have great music.
Phew, all done. There are so many more that I love as well, but these are the ones I would sit and watch over and over.
~Lisa~