As a kid you probably dreamt up what happened to your favorite Disney characters after they lived happily ever after. Unluckily for us, Disney answered these questions by going on a rampage of sequel-making, releasing a host of box office blunders and straight-to-DVD mishaps. As a child, we may not have noticed the oddities of the time-traveling Cinderella saga or the plain weirdness of The Hunchback of Notre Dame 2, but as adults these movies can be a little hard to swallow (because even Disney can’t beat their own classics!).
However, even with the majority of Disney sequels falling short of their predecessor, there are a few titles that are worth the watch nonetheless!
1. The Toy Story Saga
tumblr
There’s no arguing with this one! As possibly one of the best film series that Disney has produced with Pixar, Toy Story 2 and 3 did well in theaters and stayed true to the heart of the classic 1995 film. They also have great character development. Kids and adults alike will be able to appreciate this whole trilogy…to infinity and beyond of course.
2. Beauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas
giphy
While the plot of this one isn’t exactly sequel material, it was released six years after the 1991 classic. The story follows Belle and Beast, deckin’ the halls and having themselves a merry little Christmas. The Beast, of course, isn’t a big Christmas guy, but with the help of his lady and their enchanted friends, he’s able to get in the holiday spirit. The movie is one of the best quality follow-up’s, with good music and a worthwhile story.
3. The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride
tumblr
Another well-made sequel was Disney’s next chapter to The Lion King. Simba has come a long way from being that young whipper-snapper crowned King of Pride Rock. He’s all business and a super great dad. His daughter with Nala, Kiara, is just as spunky and rambunctious as her parents were, with a knack for exploring all that she can in the savanna…including forbidden territory. In the spirit of the first movie’s Hamlet-esque Shakespearean drama, this one takes a twist on Romeo and Juliet (with a happily-ever-after ending of course).
4. Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest
tumblr
While Pirates of the Caribbean may not be a classic quite yet, it’s still worth the mention. The hit action movie, based off of the classic Disneyland/Disney World ride, captured everyone’s heart when it hit theaters in 2003. The later movies in the series might not be up to par, but the second film, Dead Man’s Chest, wasn’t too bad. We meet the ominous Davy Jones, see Orlando Bloom save the day, watch Keira Knightley be a badass independent woman, get our Jack Sparrow fill, and encounter lots of swash-buckling adventure.
5. The Little Mermaid 2: Return to the Sea
tumblr
For the princess-at-heart, this movie’s release was pure gold. Sure, it wasn’t the best quality cinematic masterpiece, but for the wannabe mermaid and Ariel fanatic, this Disney princess sequel worked its magic (and maybe still does). Melody, the-now-Queen-on-land Ariel’s daughter, is a discontent preteen with an marine obsession–typical. Of course, the story is basically just The Little Human, who wants to be a mermaid, but captured the hearts of fans of the first movie, who totally identified with Melody.
6. Lady and the Tramp 2: Scamp’s Adventure
tumblr
Though this movie’s saving grace is pretty much the cute puppies, Scamp’s Adventure isn’t half bad, as far as kids movies go. Lady and Tramp’s son is pulling a Melody-in-Little Mermaid 2, all unsettled about his leash and collar and doghouse life. He, of course, wants to be a street dog! It has that Oliver and Company spin-off feel, but is still entertaining. And encompasses good life lessons!
7. Aladdin: King of Thieves
tumblr
As the final installment of the Aladdin triology, King of Thieves can’t beat the classic tale. However, Genie’s hilarious quips and the campy tale of Aladdin finding his family is more enjoyable than we’d like to admit. It’s not the best Disney sequel of the bunch, but it certainly was a childhood favorite for many.
8. Peter Pan: Return to Neverland
tumblr
There have been many a Peter-Pan-sequel-story and this is Disney’s attempt. Though diehard fans of the original might not love the new take, this one, which did play in movie theaters, is a well-made follow-up. It follows the typical Disney sequel arc and centers around Jane, Wendy’s daughter, who–as the title suggests–makes a journey to Neverland. And a whole new journey ensues with our favorite boy who never ever grows up.
9. The Rescuers Down Under
tumblr
As the sequel to the overlooked 1977 film (The Rescuers), The Rescuers Down Under follows a whole new rescue mission in the heart of Australia. Lovable city and country mouse band together once more, this time to help a little boy who wants to save the eagles. Same adorable mice, new adventures.
10. Fantasia 2000
tumblr
You forgot about this one, didn’t you? Part two of the first Fantasia experience, which was released in 1940, brings new music and new artistic visuals to Disney’s unique symphonic experience. While the Fantasia movies weren’t exactly ‘kid favorites,’ as adults we can appreciate the gorgeous artwork and animation that went into bringing these full-orchestrated pieces to life. It’s more entertaining then you might think (and is the perfect movie to put on in the background)!
