Disney Princess Movies: The Ultimate Guide

Hey guys! Ever wondered which Disney princess starred in which movie? Or maybe you're just looking to dive deep into the magical world of Disney princesses? Well, you've come to the right place! This is your ultimate guide to all things Disney princess movies. Let's get started!

The Original Classics

When we talk about Disney princesses, we have to start with the OG crew. These are the films that set the standard for all the princess movies that followed. These princesses taught us about kindness, bravery, and the importance of staying true to yourself.

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)

Snow White, released in 1937, holds a special place in Disney history as the first full-length animated feature film. Can you believe it? Back then, it was a groundbreaking achievement! This enchanting tale introduces us to Snow White, a princess whose beauty is envied by her wicked stepmother, the Queen. Driven by jealousy, the Queen orders a huntsman to kill Snow White, but he can't bring himself to do it and tells her to flee into the forest. Lost and scared, Snow White stumbles upon a cozy cottage inhabited by seven adorable dwarfs: Grumpy, Doc, Happy, Sleepy, Bashful, Sneezy, and Dopey. They welcome her into their home, and she becomes their housekeeper and friend.

The Queen, discovering that Snow White is still alive through her magic mirror, disguises herself as an old hag and offers Snow White a poisoned apple. One bite, and Snow White falls into a deep, death-like sleep. The dwarfs, heartbroken, place her in a glass coffin. A handsome prince, who had previously met and fallen in love with Snow White, comes across her coffin. He kisses her, breaking the spell and bringing her back to life. The film concludes with Snow White and the Prince riding off into the sunset to live happily ever after. Snow White is celebrated for its innovative animation, memorable characters, and timeless story. Its themes of good versus evil, jealousy, and true love continue to resonate with audiences of all ages, making it a beloved classic that has stood the test of time.

Cinderella (1950)

Cinderella, released in 1950, is a timeless tale of hope, kindness, and dreams coming true. This animated classic introduces us to Cinderella, a young woman living as a servant in her own home, mistreated by her cruel stepmother and stepsisters. Despite their constant torment, Cinderella remains kind and optimistic, holding onto the hope that one day her dreams will come true. Her only friends are the mice and birds who inhabit the house, and they provide her with companionship and support.

When an invitation to a royal ball arrives, Cinderella is initially forbidden from attending by her stepmother, who sees her as competition for the Prince's attention. However, with the help of her Fairy Godmother, Cinderella is magically transformed into a beautiful princess for one night. She attends the ball and captures the heart of Prince Charming, who is captivated by her grace and beauty. As the clock strikes midnight, the magic begins to wear off, and Cinderella must flee the palace, leaving behind one of her glass slippers. The Prince, determined to find the mysterious woman he danced with, searches the kingdom, trying the slipper on every maiden until he finds the one it fits. Of course, it fits Cinderella perfectly!

Cinderella is renowned for its stunning animation, memorable songs, and heartwarming message about the power of kindness and perseverance. The film's iconic moments, such as the transformation scene and the glass slipper fitting, have become ingrained in popular culture. Cinderella remains a beloved classic, inspiring audiences to believe in the possibility of dreams coming true, no matter how difficult the circumstances may seem.

Sleeping Beauty (1959)

Sleeping Beauty, released in 1959, is a visually stunning and enchanting fairy tale that captivates audiences with its beautiful animation and memorable characters. The story begins with the birth of Princess Aurora, who is cursed by the evil fairy Maleficent. Maleficent, angered at not being invited to Aurora's christening, curses the princess to prick her finger on a spinning wheel and die before the sun sets on her sixteenth birthday. However, one of the good fairies, Merryweather, softens the curse, decreeing that Aurora will instead fall into a deep sleep, only to be awakened by true love's kiss.

To protect Aurora, the three good fairies, Flora, Fauna, and Merryweather, disguise themselves as peasant women and raise her in a secluded forest cottage. They name her Briar Rose and keep her true identity a secret. On her sixteenth birthday, Aurora, while wandering in the forest, meets and falls in love with Prince Phillip. However, Maleficent's curse comes to fruition, and Aurora pricks her finger on a spinning wheel, falling into a deep sleep. Prince Phillip, with the help of the three good fairies, battles Maleficent, ultimately defeating her and breaking the curse with a kiss of true love.

Sleeping Beauty is celebrated for its breathtaking visuals, iconic villain, and romantic storyline. The film's opulent backgrounds, designed in a unique medieval style, create a visually rich and immersive experience. Maleficent, with her imposing presence and malevolent power, is considered one of Disney's greatest villains. The story's themes of good versus evil, true love, and destiny resonate deeply, making Sleeping Beauty a timeless classic that continues to enchant audiences with its beauty and magic.

The Renaissance Era

The Disney Renaissance brought a fresh wave of princess stories that were more empowered and adventurous. These princesses weren't just waiting for a prince; they were actively shaping their own destinies.

The Little Mermaid (1989)

The Little Mermaid, released in 1989, marked the beginning of the Disney Renaissance and revitalized the studio's animated musical films. The story follows Ariel, a spirited and adventurous mermaid princess who dreams of becoming human. Living in the underwater kingdom of Atlantica with her father, King Triton, and her sisters, Ariel feels constrained by her life beneath the sea. She is fascinated by the human world and collects artifacts from sunken ships, longing to experience life on land.

During one of her explorations, Ariel saves Prince Eric from drowning during a storm and falls deeply in love with him. Determined to become human and be with Eric, Ariel makes a deal with the sea witch Ursula. In exchange for her voice, Ursula grants Ariel legs for three days, during which she must receive a kiss of true love from Eric. If she fails, she will turn back into a mermaid and belong to Ursula forever. Ariel's journey on land is filled with challenges, as she struggles to communicate without her voice and navigate the human world.

With the help of her friends, Flounder the fish and Sebastian the crab, Ariel comes close to winning Eric's heart. However, Ursula interferes, disguising herself as a human and using Ariel's voice to trick Eric into marrying her. In a climactic battle, Ariel, Eric, and their friends defeat Ursula, restoring order to Atlantica. King Triton, realizing the depth of Ariel's love for Eric, grants her wish to become human permanently. The Little Mermaid is celebrated for its vibrant animation, unforgettable songs, and strong-willed protagonist. Ariel's determination to pursue her dreams and her willingness to defy expectations make her an inspiring and beloved character, solidifying The Little Mermaid as a modern classic.

Beauty and the Beast (1991)

Beauty and the Beast, released in 1991, is a timeless tale of inner beauty, acceptance, and the transformative power of love. This animated masterpiece tells the story of Belle, a young woman from a small French village who is considered an oddity by her neighbors due to her love of books and independent spirit. When her father, Maurice, becomes lost in the woods and seeks shelter in a mysterious castle, he is captured by the Beast, a prince who was transformed into a monstrous creature by an enchantress as punishment for his arrogance.

Belle bravely offers herself as a prisoner in exchange for her father's freedom and enters the Beast's enchanted castle. Initially frightened by the Beast, Belle gradually begins to see beyond his fearsome appearance and discovers the kind and lonely soul beneath. The castle is inhabited by enchanted objects, including Lumiere the candelabra, Cogsworth the clock, and Mrs. Potts the teapot, who become Belle's friends and confidantes. They encourage her to look beyond the Beast's exterior and see the man he once was.

As Belle and the Beast spend time together, they develop a deep connection, and Belle begins to fall in love with him. However, their newfound happiness is threatened by Gaston, a narcissistic and arrogant hunter who is determined to marry Belle and will stop at nothing to get what he wants. In a climactic battle, the Beast is wounded, and Belle declares her love for him, breaking the enchantress's spell and restoring him to his human form. Beauty and the Beast is celebrated for its stunning animation, memorable songs, and profound themes. The film's message that true beauty lies within and that love can conquer all has resonated with audiences for generations, making it a beloved and enduring classic.

Aladdin (1992)

Aladdin, released in 1992, is a vibrant and adventurous tale set in the fictional Arabian city of Agrabah. The story follows Aladdin, a charming street urchin who dreams of escaping his impoverished life and winning the heart of Princess Jasmine. Jasmine, the independent and headstrong daughter of the Sultan, feels trapped by her royal duties and longs for freedom and adventure. She disguises herself as a commoner and ventures into the city, where she meets Aladdin. They quickly form a connection, but their romance is threatened by their different social classes and the machinations of the evil Jafar, the Sultan's advisor.

Jafar seeks to overthrow the Sultan and rule Agrabah himself. He discovers a magic lamp hidden in a cave, which contains a powerful genie who can grant wishes. Jafar manipulates Aladdin into retrieving the lamp for him, but Aladdin manages to keep the lamp for himself. With the help of the Genie, Aladdin disguises himself as Prince Ali Ababwa and woos Princess Jasmine. However, his deception is eventually revealed, and he must confront Jafar and prove his worthiness to Jasmine and her father.

In a climactic battle, Aladdin outsmarts Jafar, trapping him in the lamp and saving Agrabah from his evil plans. With the Genie's help, Aladdin frees the Genie from his servitude and wishes to be himself again. The Sultan, recognizing Aladdin's true character, changes the law so that Jasmine can marry whomever she chooses. Aladdin is celebrated for its energetic animation, unforgettable songs, and humorous characters. The Genie, voiced by Robin Williams, is a standout, bringing wit and improvisation to the film. Aladdin's themes of self-discovery, honesty, and the importance of inner worth make it a beloved and timeless classic.

Pocahontas (1995)

Pocahontas, released in 1995, is a historical drama that tells a fictionalized account of the encounter between the Powhatan Native Americans and the English settlers in the early 17th century. The story centers around Pocahontas, a spirited and adventurous young woman who is the daughter of Chief Powhatan, the leader of the Powhatan tribe. When English settlers, led by Governor Ratcliffe and Captain John Smith, arrive in Virginia seeking gold and land, tensions quickly rise between the two cultures.

Pocahontas encounters John Smith while he is exploring the New World, and they develop a deep connection despite their cultural differences. They learn from each other about their respective worlds and strive to promote understanding and peace between their people. However, Governor Ratcliffe is determined to exploit the land and wage war against the Powhatan, seeing them as savages who stand in his way.

As tensions escalate, Pocahontas works to bridge the gap between the two cultures and prevent bloodshed. She helps John Smith understand the beauty and importance of the natural world and the wisdom of the Powhatan way of life. In a climactic moment, Pocahontas intervenes to save John Smith from being executed by her father, demonstrating her commitment to peace and understanding. Pocahontas is celebrated for its stunning animation, beautiful songs, and themes of cultural understanding and respect for nature. The film's message about the importance of seeing beyond differences and finding common ground resonates deeply, making it a thought-provoking and visually captivating film.

Mulan (1998)

Mulan, released in 1998, is an action-packed and inspiring tale set in ancient China. The story follows Fa Mulan, a courageous and independent young woman who disguises herself as a man to take her ailing father's place in the army. When the Huns invade China, the Emperor orders every family to send one man to join the Imperial Army. Mulan's father, who is old and frail, is determined to fulfill his duty, but Mulan knows that he will not survive the war. Determined to protect him, she cuts her hair, dons his armor, and takes his place, embarking on a perilous journey filled with challenges and self-discovery.

Mulan joins the army and struggles to fit in, facing discrimination and ridicule from her fellow soldiers. However, with the help of her dragon sidekick, Mushu, and the guidance of Captain Li Shang, she proves her worth through her intelligence, bravery, and determination. Mulan excels in combat and becomes a skilled warrior, earning the respect of her comrades. When the Huns launch a surprise attack, Mulan uses her strategic thinking to defeat them and save the Emperor and all of China.

Mulan's true identity is eventually revealed, but her bravery and heroism have earned her the respect of the Emperor and the people of China. She is offered a position as an advisor to the Emperor, but she declines, choosing to return home to her family. Mulan is celebrated for its strong female lead, thrilling action sequences, and themes of courage, honor, and self-acceptance. Mulan's journey of self-discovery and her willingness to defy expectations make her an inspiring and beloved character, solidifying Mulan as a modern classic.

The Revival Era

The 2000s and beyond saw a resurgence in Disney princess films, with each movie bringing something new to the table, from different cultural influences to unique character arcs.

The Princess and the Frog (2009)

The Princess and the Frog, released in 2009, is a charming and vibrant tale set in the jazz-filled city of New Orleans. The story follows Tiana, a hardworking and ambitious young woman who dreams of opening her own restaurant. Tiana is determined to achieve her goal through hard work and perseverance, inspired by her late father's dream. She works tirelessly as a waitress, saving every penny she earns to purchase an old sugar mill and turn it into her dream restaurant.

During the Mardi Gras season, Tiana encounters Prince Naveen of Maldonia, who has been transformed into a frog by the evil voodoo magician Dr. Facilier. Naveen, desperate to break the curse, believes that kissing a princess will restore him to his human form. He mistakes Tiana for a princess because of her costume and asks her to kiss him. However, when Tiana kisses Naveen, she is also transformed into a frog. Together, Tiana and Naveen embark on a journey through the bayous of Louisiana to find Mama Odie, a voodoo priestess who can break the curse.

Along the way, Tiana and Naveen encounter a colorful cast of characters, including Louis the trumpet-playing alligator and Ray the firefly, who become their friends and allies. They learn valuable lessons about love, friendship, and the importance of staying true to themselves. The Princess and the Frog is celebrated for its beautiful animation, catchy songs, and themes of ambition, perseverance, and the importance of following your dreams. The film's celebration of African American culture and its strong female lead make it a significant and beloved addition to the Disney princess canon.

Tangled (2010)

Tangled, released in 2010, is a delightful and adventurous tale based on the classic fairy tale of Rapunzel. The story centers around Rapunzel, a princess with magical long hair that has the power to heal and restore youth. As a baby, Rapunzel is kidnapped by Mother Gothel, an aging woman who wants to use Rapunzel's hair to maintain her youth. Mother Gothel locks Rapunzel away in a secluded tower, raising her as her own and forbidding her from leaving.

As Rapunzel grows up, she becomes curious about the outside world and longs to see the floating lanterns that appear in the sky every year on her birthday. On the eve of her eighteenth birthday, Rapunzel encounters Flynn Rider, a charming thief who stumbles upon her tower while on the run from the royal guards. Rapunzel makes a deal with Flynn: she will return his stolen crown if he agrees to take her to see the lanterns.

Together, Rapunzel and Flynn embark on a journey filled with adventure, danger, and self-discovery. They encounter a colorful cast of characters, including Maximus, a determined and loyal horse, and the Snuggly Duckling pub thugs, who become their unlikely allies. Tangled is celebrated for its stunning animation, humorous characters, and themes of freedom, self-discovery, and the importance of following your dreams. Rapunzel's journey to break free from her confinement and discover her true identity makes her an inspiring and relatable character, solidifying Tangled as a modern classic.

Brave (2012)

Brave, released in 2012, is a spirited and empowering tale set in the rugged Scottish Highlands. The story follows Merida, a fiercely independent and skilled archer who is the daughter of King Fergus and Queen Elinor. Merida chafes under the constraints of her royal duties and longs for freedom and adventure. She resists her mother's attempts to groom her into a proper princess and refuses to be betrothed to any of the neighboring clans.

When three suitors arrive to compete for Merida's hand in marriage, she defies tradition and enters the archery contest herself, winning her own hand and causing a rift with her mother. In a moment of anger and frustration, Merida seeks the help of a mysterious witch, who grants her a spell to change her fate. However, the spell goes awry, transforming Queen Elinor into a bear. Merida must now embark on a quest to break the spell and restore her mother to her human form.

As Merida and her mother journey through the wilderness, they learn to understand and appreciate each other. Merida realizes the importance of family and tradition, while Elinor learns to respect Merida's independence and spirit. Brave is celebrated for its stunning visuals, strong female lead, and themes of family, tradition, and the importance of finding your own path. Merida's determination to forge her own destiny and her journey to mend her relationship with her mother make Brave a powerful and inspiring film.

Frozen (2013)

Frozen, released in 2013, is a magical and heartwarming tale set in the fictional kingdom of Arendelle. The story centers around two sisters, Elsa and Anna. Elsa, the elder sister, possesses magical powers that allow her to create and control ice and snow. However, her powers are uncontrollable, and she accidentally injures Anna when they are children. To protect Anna and the kingdom, Elsa isolates herself in her room, suppressing her powers and distancing herself from her sister.

Years later, when Elsa is crowned queen, her powers are accidentally revealed to the public, causing her to flee Arendelle and retreat to a remote ice palace in the mountains. Elsa's departure plunges Arendelle into an eternal winter. Anna, determined to save her sister and her kingdom, sets out on a journey to find Elsa and convince her to return. Along the way, Anna is joined by Kristoff, a rugged ice harvester, his reindeer Sven, and Olaf, a sentient snowman brought to life by Elsa's magic.

Together, Anna and her friends face numerous challenges, including treacherous weather conditions, dangerous creatures, and their own inner demons. Frozen is celebrated for its catchy songs, stunning animation, and themes of sisterhood, self-acceptance, and the power of love. The film's message about embracing your true self and overcoming fear has resonated with audiences worldwide, making Frozen a cultural phenomenon and a modern classic.

Moana (2016)

Moana, released in 2016, is an adventurous and visually stunning tale set in the ancient South Pacific. The story follows Moana, a spirited and courageous young woman who is the daughter of the chief of Motunui, a Polynesian island. Moana is chosen by the ocean to restore the heart of Te Fiti, a powerful goddess whose heart was stolen by the demigod Maui, plunging the world into darkness. Moana feels a deep connection to the ocean and longs to explore beyond the reef, despite her father's warnings.

When her island is threatened by a blight that is killing the crops and depleting the fish, Moana defies her father and sets sail on a daring journey to find Maui and convince him to return the heart of Te Fiti. Along the way, Moana encounters numerous challenges, including treacherous weather conditions, fierce creatures, and her own self-doubt. With the help of Maui, Moana learns to navigate the ocean and embrace her destiny.

Moana is celebrated for its beautiful animation, catchy songs, and themes of courage, self-discovery, and the importance of honoring your heritage. The film's celebration of Polynesian culture and its strong female lead make it a significant and beloved addition to the Disney princess canon. Moana's determination to save her people and her unwavering belief in herself make her an inspiring and relatable character.

Raya and the Last Dragon (2021)

Raya and the Last Dragon, released in 2021, is an epic and visually stunning tale set in the fantasy world of Kumandra, inspired by Southeast Asian cultures. The story follows Raya, a skilled warrior princess who is the daughter of Chief Benja of the Heart Land. Kumandra was once a unified land where humans and dragons lived in harmony, but when the Druun, monstrous creatures that turn living beings into stone, threatened the world, the dragons sacrificed themselves to save humanity. Before they disappeared, the dragons created a gem that could repel the Druun. However, the gem was shattered into five pieces, and the lands of Kumandra were divided into five warring factions.

Years later, the Druun return, and Raya embarks on a quest to find the last dragon, Sisu, and reunite the shattered gem to save Kumandra. Along the way, Raya is joined by a diverse group of characters, including Namaari, a skilled warrior from the Fang Land, Boun, a young entrepreneur from the Tail Land, Tong, a formidable giant from the Spine Land, and Little Noi, a resourceful toddler from the Talon Land. Together, they must overcome their differences and learn to trust each other to defeat the Druun and restore Kumandra.

Raya and the Last Dragon is celebrated for its stunning animation, thrilling action sequences, and themes of trust, unity, and the importance of overcoming division. The film's celebration of Southeast Asian cultures and its strong female leads make it a significant and beloved addition to the Disney princess canon. Raya's journey to unite Kumandra and her unwavering belief in the power of trust make her an inspiring and relatable character.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! A comprehensive look at all the amazing Disney princess movies. From the classic tales that started it all to the modern stories that continue to inspire us, each film offers something special. Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to the magic, there's always something to discover in the world of Disney princesses. Keep dreaming, keep believing, and keep enjoying these timeless stories!