The 1990s were a golden era for Disney, with animated classics like The Lion King, Aladdin, and Beauty and the Beast dominating pop culture. However, Disney’s live-action films from this decade also left a lasting impact, delivering family-friendly adventures, heartwarming stories, and unforgettable performances.
From Robin Williams’ hilarious role in Flubber to the underdog triumph of The Mighty Ducks, these films continue to spark nostalgia for those who grew up watching them. Here’s a ranking of the best Disney live-action movies from the ’90s—some beloved, others underrated, but all worth revisiting.
10. Flubber (1997)
- Directed by: Les Mayfield
- Starring: Robin Williams, Marcia Gay Harden, Christopher McDonald
Robin Williams’ infectious charisma elevates Flubber, a remake of The Absent-Minded Professor. The film follows eccentric scientist Philip Brainard, who accidentally creates a bouncy, sentient green substance while trying to save his university.
Why It’s Nostalgic:
- Williams’ comedic genius.
- The iconic, gooey Flubber.
- A mix of science fiction, slapstick comedy, and heartfelt moments.
Rotten Tomatoes Scores:
- Critics: 24%
- Audience: 33%
9. The Mighty Ducks (1992)
- Directed by: Stephen Herek
- Starring: Emilio Estevez, Joshua Jackson, Joss Ackland
A quintessential sports underdog story, The Mighty Ducks follows Gordon Bombay (Estevez), a disgraced lawyer who finds redemption coaching a ragtag youth hockey team.
Why It’s Nostalgic:
- The ultimate feel-good sports movie.
- Iconic “Flying V” hockey formation.
- Spawned a beloved franchise (D2, D3, and a Disney+ series).
Rotten Tomatoes Scores:
- Critics: 27%
- Audience: 65%
8. The Parent Trap (1998)
- Directed by: Nancy Meyers
- Starring: Lindsay Lohan, Dennis Quaid, Natasha Richardson
A charming remake of the 1961 classic, The Parent Trap introduced the world to Lindsay Lohan, who played twin sisters Hallie and Annie, separated at birth and reunited at summer camp.
Why It’s Nostalgic:
- Lohan’s breakthrough performance.
- Heartwarming family themes.
- A fun, wholesome remake with a modern twist.
Rotten Tomatoes Scores:
- Critics: 87%
- Audience: 70%
7. 101 Dalmatians (1996)
- Directed by: Stephen Herek
- Starring: Glenn Close, Jeff Daniels, Joely Richardson
Disney’s first-ever live-action remake, 101 Dalmatians brought Cruella de Vil to life, with Glenn Close delivering an unforgettable, over-the-top performance as the fur-obsessed villain.
Why It’s Nostalgic:
- Close’s deliciously evil performance.
- A fun and campy adaptation.
- The beginning of Disney’s live-action remake trend.
Rotten Tomatoes Scores:
- Critics: 39%
- Audience: 40%
6. Hocus Pocus (1993)
- Directed by: Kenny Ortega
- Starring: Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kathy Najimy
A Halloween cult classic, Hocus Pocus follows three resurrected witches, the Sanderson Sisters, as they wreak havoc on Salem, Massachusetts.
Why It’s Nostalgic:
- Hilarious, over-the-top performances.
- A perfect mix of humor and spookiness.
- Became a Halloween tradition, leading to Hocus Pocus 2 and an upcoming Hocus Pocus 3.
Rotten Tomatoes Scores:
- Critics: 41%
- Audience: 72%
5. Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993)
- Directed by: Duwayne Dunham
- Starring: Michael J. Fox, Sally Field, Don Ameche (voices)
A heartwarming adventure, Homeward Bound follows three loyal pets who embark on a perilous journey home to reunite with their family.
Why It’s Nostalgic:
- A deeply emotional story about pets and loyalty.
- Great voice acting, including Michael J. Fox as Chance.
- A movie that still makes audiences tear up.
Rotten Tomatoes Scores:
- Critics: 87%
- Audience: 71%
4. Newsies (1992)
- Directed by: Kenny Ortega
- Starring: Christian Bale, Bill Pullman, Robert Duvall
Loosely based on the 1899 newsboys’ strike, Newsies follows young newspaper sellers fighting for fair wages. Though it flopped at the box office, it later became a beloved Broadway musical.
Why It’s Nostalgic:
- Christian Bale’s unexpected musical performance.
- Energetic dance numbers and inspiring themes.
- Gained a second life as a Tony Award-winning stage show.
Rotten Tomatoes Scores:
- Critics: 39%
- Audience: 79%
3. Angels in the Outfield (1994)
- Directed by: William Dear
- Starring: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Danny Glover, Christopher Lloyd
A heartfelt baseball fantasy, Angels in the Outfield follows a young boy’s wish to see his struggling baseball team win, aided by real-life angels.
Why It’s Nostalgic:
- An uplifting underdog story.
- Young Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s breakout role.
- Great performances from Christopher Lloyd and Danny Glover.
Rotten Tomatoes Scores:
- Critics: 31%
- Audience: 49%
2. Cinderella (1997)
- Directed by: Robert Iscove
- Starring: Brandy, Whitney Houston, Whoopi Goldberg
This diverse and groundbreaking adaptation of Cinderella features Brandy as the first Black Disney princess and Whitney Houston as the Fairy Godmother.
Why It’s Nostalgic:
- Memorable songs & powerful performances.
- A magical, inclusive take on a classic tale.
- One of the most beloved TV musicals of all time.
Rotten Tomatoes Scores:
- Critics: 86%
- Audience: 74%
1. The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
- Directed by: Brian Henson
- Starring: Michael Caine, The Muppets
A charming adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic, The Muppet Christmas Carol features Michael Caine’s straight-faced performance as Scrooge, surrounded by beloved Muppet characters.
Why It’s Nostalgic:
- One of the best Christmas movies ever.
- A perfect blend of humor, heart, and holiday magic.
- Michael Caine’s unforgettable portrayal of Scrooge.
Rotten Tomatoes Scores:
- Critics: 78%
- Audience: 86%
