At this point in the quarter, it’s easy to remember why being a kid is so fantastic—and, of course, we’re all looking for procrastination in any form: especially a movie. As we sob over a generation of kids who have never seen Cinderella because they’re too busy texting on their iPhones at age seven, Intermission takes a look at the greatest Disney animated classics.

 

Fantasia (1940)

One of Disney’s early productions, “Fantasia” transforms eight classical works into cartoon form with the help of Mickey Mouse, who plays a starring role as a sorcerer’s apprentice. Though seen as one of Disney’s “high-brow” movies, resulting in mixed reviews from critics, “Fantasia” represents one of Disney’s more successful deviations from the norm during the Disney Princess era.

 

Cinderella (1950)

This wouldn’t be a top Disney list without Cinderella, one of the major films of Disney’s “golden era” and a giant leap into the hearts of countless little girls. With some of the most memorable Disney compositions (“Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo,” “The Work Song,”) and the perfect happily ever after, no fairy tale will likely ever top that of Prince Charming and his princess.

 

Alice in Wonderland (1951)

Kids love “Alice” because it makes no sense. White Rabbits, Mad Hatters, random growth spurts, cards as people—Lewis Carroll was allegedly under several influences while writing the original story, as evidenced in the final product. However, everyone secretly wants to have as epic an adventure as Alice did, even if it requires sketchy sidekicks.

 

Aladdin (1992)

“Aladdin” was one of Disney’s first attempts at reaching a larger market—it was the beginning of the wave of more international tales, such as “The Lion King” and “Mulan.” One of the last hand-drawn animations produced by Disney, “Aladdin” gives hope to every viewer as it weaves a tale of endless possibilities in both romance and material possessions.

 

The Lion King (1994)

“The Lion King” still stands as Disney’s highest grossing 2D animated film in the United States, and for good reason. Rereleased in 2011 in a 3D version (and yes, we still cried during the film… “The Lion King” follows Simba’s transformation into a king after his father’s demise. Mostly, though, Scar is one of the most epic villains in cinematic history. Too bad his kids weren’t equally cunning.