Fantasia (1940)
In order to appreciate “Fantasia”, you have to surrender to it. It’s simply a visual and symphonic experience. You may not exactly “like” it, but it sure is something to be appreciated. Bear in mind that it was also only the third film produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios.
Ultimately, while Fantasia is not about anything, it is still impressive and somehow even more so than it’s modern counterpart.
The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad (1949)
One of the classic early package films, this film joins two great shorts, "The Wind in the Willows" and "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow." The only problem, the books on which these shorts are based greatly differ in style.
The former is a lighthearted tale, while the latter is a classic horror story. Pairing these side by side is odd to say the least, even if as they are good as singular works. As far as the animation, even by 1940s standards is subpar.
The Aristocats (1970)
Fearing the vocal talents of Eva Gabor as Duchess, folks simply fell in love with this film. However, "The Aristocats" got a slightly lower ranking on an account of its lacking in originality and seems to emulate films like the"One Hundred and One Dalmatians" and "Lady and the Tramp".
With that said, "The Aristocats" is still delightful and the energetic scat song "Ev'rybody Wants to Be a Cat" is enough to make this movie a Disney classic.
Oliver & Company (1988)
It's Oliver Twist — but this time it has talking animals. Meek little kitten Oliver finds himself in the world of thieving dogs led by Fagin, the human. It's also set in a gritty New York City instead of London, giving it American relevance. The music definitely stands out with the vocal talents of Huey Lewis, Billy Joel, and Bette Midler.
How can we forget Middler's number "Perfect Isn't Easy."
Treasure Planet (2002)
Treasure Planet has an interesting look with its traditional 2D characters placed against 3D computer-generated backgrounds. The combination of the two art forms makes for a unique aesthetic and, simply, something beautiful to look at.
As a sci-fi take on the classic adventure novel Treasure Island, at times becomes its own worst enemy with too many fancy robots that detract from the story. When it's not getting lost in space, it is a powerful film.