11 Things Every Disney Movie Must Include

November 2, 2014

In case you didn’t know, we’re kind of obsessed with Disney movies. As a result, we’ve selflessly dedicated our lives to watching and re-watching these timeless tales. After years of learning every line and lyric, we have finally figured out why Disney movies are so amazing.

Here are the 11 things every Disney movie must include:


1. A young hero.

Disney baby montage

The Genie Transportation Services

Young and adorable can also mean innocent and naive. When all four characteristics come together, you get a pretty fantastic story of strength, discovery, and self acceptance. (aka every Disney movie.)

2. A loyal sidekick.

Disney sidekicks montage

From Meeko and Mushu to Olaf and Abu, sidekicks are one of the best things about Disney movies!

3. A scary villain.

Scar fire jump lion king

Where there’s a King (or Queen, Princess, Prince, etc.), there’s sure to be a creeper waiting to ruin their rein.

4. Magic. And lots of it!

Magic pixie dust

A sprinkle here, a happy thought there… before you know it, there’s magic everywhere!

5. Transformation.

Cinderella transformation

Whether it’s a physical makeover, or an emotional one, this is a key part of every Disney film.

6. Music.

Aristocat kittens dancing the aristocats

What’s a Disney movie without an amazing soundtrack to sing along to? But you don’t have to take our word for it. Check out the brand new NOW That’s What I Call Disney 3 CD for a full track list of awesome Disney songs.

7. Love (in all its forms.)

Sisterly love anna and elsa frozen

Disney movies are full of love. The unconditional love between sisters, the loyal love of friends, and romantic love when characters find the one.

8. Risk.

Rope zip line kuzco and pacha emperors new groove

Taking risks is part of growing up, especially in Disney movies. Sailing through the air on a homemade zipline is about as risky as it gets.

9. Sacrifice.

Pocahontas sacrifice john smith

Sacrifice is a theme seen time and time again in Disney movies. Pocahontas sacrifices herself to save John Smith, Anna sacrifices herself to shield Elsa from Hans, and Flynn sacrifices himself by cutting Rapunzel’s magical hair.

10. Set backs.

Hans and anna frozen

It ain’t over ‘til it’s over! Just when you think the hero is safe and sound, there’s a twist that sends your mind spinning with surprise. How could you not see this coming?!

11. A happy ending…

Happy ending

Cue big smiles all around.

What are your favorite moments from Disney movies? Let us know in the comments!

author avatar
Scott Atwood Co-Owner, Writer, Webmaster
Scott Atwood is the Co-Owner, Co-Creator, and Webmaster of The Main Street Mouse, one of Florida's leading Disney and theme park news sources. With an 18-year background in technical support and systems management, Scott brings a detail-oriented, research-driven approach to everything he does — from managing the technical infrastructure of TMSM to covering the latest Disney news, Marvel updates, and technology developments. As Project Planner and Business Relations Manager for TMSM, Scott works behind the scenes to ensure the site runs smoothly while also contributing articles on topics he's passionate about — including Star Wars, Marvel, Disney Parks, and the latest in tech and pop culture. What started as a hobby alongside his wife Michele has grown into a full-time labor of love, reaching Disney fans across the country every day. Scott is also Co-Host of the TMSM Weekly Podcast and Co-Owner of the House of Mouse Expo. He feels blessed to spend his days doing what he loves alongside his best friend and partner in all things Disney.



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