The Best Disney Movie That Disney Didn't Make: A Hidden Gem

Have you ever wondered about the movies that could have been Disney classics but for some reason were never produced? In the vast universe of cinema, there are several films that have a Disney-like story or tone that could have been owned and brought to life by the house of Mouse. In this article, we will explore some of these hidden gems and discuss why they might be the best Disney movie that Disney didn't make.

1. The Chronicles of Narnia

When we think of magical realms and wondrous creatures, The Chronicles of Narnia comes to mind. This series, originally written by C.S. Lewis, has a rich storyline filled with fantastical elements, moral lessons, and epic adventures that would have fit perfectly within the Disney catalog.

The Narnia films, produced by Walden Media and the creative team behind Camelot and The Golden Compass, could have been owned by Disney and produced with their characteristic charm and quality. The storyline, which revolves around a young boy and his sister discovering a magical land, would have resonated with Disney's audience demographic. The multiple books, each containing a different set of characters and adventures, offer a wealth of material for Disney to work with.

Though The Chronicles of Narnia has been adapted into live-action films, had Disney produced them, the movies would have likely gained more viewers and become a staple in classic Disney movies. Additionally, it would have given more visibility to a variety of ethnicities and nationalities while still maintaining the magic and wonder that Disney is known for.

2. The Princess and the Warrior

The Princess and the Warrior is a brilliant adaptation of the Japanese manga series Princess Mononoke by Hayao Miyazaki. While the original film includes memorable action scenes and stunning visuals, it could have been further refined and broadened into a more mainstream Disney adaptation. The film tells the story of Princess Mononoke, a young girl who must learn to embrace her role as a warrior and fight against the destructive forces of the forest gods.

Disney’s animation style would have given this film a unique and polished look. The story's emphasis on environmentalism, ethics, and the balance between humans and nature would have connected with Disney’s core values and resonated with a wider audience. The diverse characters and settings would have also provided a more inclusive representation of the world.

Furthermore, the film’s themes of growing up, responsibility, and the importance of community could have been further explored, making it a more relatable and engaging experience for children and adults alike. Had Disney produced it, a sequel or multiple sequels could have been created, offering more depth to the storyline and ensuring its longevity as a franchise.

3. The Sword in the Stone

Another Disney movie that could have been produced by the company is The Sword in the Stone. Based on the legend of King Arthur, The Sword in the Stone tells the story of a young boy growing up under the tutelage of a wizard, Arthurian knights, and a mysterious sword that holds great destiny.

Disney’s ability to bring fantasy and adventure to the forefront of its storytelling, combined with the legendary nature of King Arthur, would have provided a rich narrative that could have captivated audiences. The themes of friendship, loyalty, and the quest for destiny would have been explored in a way that is genuinely Disney-like. Additionally, the film’s setting in medieval England and the presence of mythical creatures would have added a unique and enchanting touch to the storyline.

The success of other Disney animated films based on Arthurian legends, such as Excalibur and King Arthur and the Legend of the Round Table, suggests that a more polished and family-friendly version of The Sword in the Stone could have gained significant popularity. Had Disney produced it, the film could have been further developed into a series of interconnected stories, expanding the Arthurian universe and providing a consistent and engaging narrative.

Conclusion

While Disney has produced countless classic and beloved films, the idea of the best Disney movie that Disney didn't make certainly exists. Films like The Chronicles of Narnia, The Princess and the Warrior, and The Sword in the Stone offer a glimpse into what could have been. They represent a diverse range of stories and themes that would have added to the rich tapestry of Disney's filmography. Had these movies been produced by Disney, the company would have had a more varied and inclusive lineup of animated features. These hidden gems deserve recognition and consideration as potential contenders for the title of the best Disney movie that Disney didn't make.