Must-Watch Movies Before Going To Disneyland Paris 

Before heading to Paris on your next Disney trip, there are a few Disney movies that you might want to watch so that your whole family can recognise the Disney stars that you will see at the meet and greets for photos with Disney characters or see taking part in the parades as well as recognise the theming around the Disney resort and on the rides. With Disney having such a vast back catalogue of movies, especially now that the likes of Pixar and the Marvel Cinematic Universe have joined their ranks, there is a lot to get through before you head to the Disney parks! Here is a full, alphabetical list of movies along with a brief description of them and details of where you will see references to them in and around Disneyland Park, the Walt Disney Studios Park and the Disney Village.

Don’t forget, you can stream all your favourite Disney movies on Disney Plus.

Facts about Disney Movies

Hidden Mickeys: Disney animators love hiding Mickey Mouse silhouettes in the frames of their movies. Keep an eye out next time you watch a Disney classic – you might be surprised where Mickey pops up!

Real-life Inspiration: Many beloved Disney characters are based on real people. For example, the animators used actress Sherri Stoner as a model for the proportions of Ariel from The Little Mermaid and Belle from Beauty and the Beast.

Early Films Lack Moms: Notice a trend in some early Disney films? Snow White, Mowgli in The Jungle Book, and Pinocchio all lack a mother figure. This wasn’t intentional but reflects the societal view of families at the time these movies were made.

Award Recognition: Walt Disney holds the record for the most Academy Award wins of any individual – and many were for his animated films! He even received a special honorary Oscar for Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs in 1939.

Acronymic Characters: Pixar, now a Disney subsidiary, loves hiding clever names in plain sight. Did you know WALL-E actually stands for “Waste Allocation Load Lifter Earth-Class”?

Aladdin

Disney’s Aladdin is a story about a kind-hearted street rat named Aladdin who finds a magic lamp containing a powerful genie. With the genie’s help, Aladdin tries to win Princess Jasmine’s heart, but he faces challenges from the evil Jafar, who also wants the lamp’s power. It’s a classic tale of adventure, romance, and wishes coming true.

Aladdin theming can be seen in the Adventureland section of the main park on Le Passage Enchanté d’Aladdin (a walk-through of mini-scenes from Agrabah), in the studio’s park on Les Tapis Volants – Flying Carpets over Agrabah® ride, in the character meet and greets in Adventureland and as part of the parades through the centre of Disneyland Park.

Alice in Wonderland

A curious and adventurous young girl named Alice chases a white rabbit down a hole and stumbles into Wonderland, a fantastical world filled with talking animals, nonsensical riddles, and wacky characters like the Mad Hatter and the Cheshire Cat. Join Alice on a whimsical journey through this topsy-turvy land as she tries to find her way back home. 

Alice in Wonderland theming can be seen in Fantasyland in the main park as part of Alice’s Curious Labyrinth, the Matter Hatter’s Teacups, character meet and greets and the Disney Stars on Parade. New for 2024 in the Walt Disney Studios Park is Alice and the Queen of Hearts: Back to Wonderland – a high volume and high energy pop/rock face-off between Alice and the Queen of Hearts

Avengers

The Avengers are Earth’s mightiest heroes, a team assembled to face threats too big for any one superhero to handle.  They are a group of powerful individuals brought together by Nick Fury, the director of S.H.I.E.L.D. (Strategic Homeland Intervention, Enforcement and Logistics Division), a global peacekeeping agency.

The core members of the Avengers include:

• Iron Man (Tony Stark): A billionaire playboy genius and philanthropist who builds high-tech armour to fight crime.
• Captain America (Steve Rogers): A World War II super soldier with enhanced strength and fighting skills.
• Thor: The Asgardian God of Thunder with superhuman strength, durability, and the ability to control lightning.
• Hulk (Bruce Banner): A brilliant scientist who transforms into a giant green rage monster with immense strength.
• Black Widow (Natasha Romanoff): A highly skilled former Russian spy and martial artist.
• Spiderman (Peter Parker): A nerdy high school student bitten by a radioactive spider that grants him superhuman abilities.

Over the years, the Avengers roster has expanded to include other heroes like Hawkeye (Clint Barton), Black Panther (T’Challa), Scarlet Witch (Wanda Maximoff), and Vision. They face off against villains like Loki, Thanos, Ultron, and various alien threats.

Avengers theming can be seen exclusively in the Walt Disney Studios Park where they have an entire Avengers Campus! There are the rides: Avengers Assemble Flight Force and Spiderman W.E.B. Adventure, restaurants and food outlets: FAN-tastic Food Truck, PYM Kitchen, WEB Food Truck and the Stark Factory, the Hero Training Centre, character meet and greets and shows: Avengers Unite!, Warriors of Wakanda, Guardians of the Galaxy Dance Challenge, Heroic Welcome and The Amazing Spiderman as well as the Avengers-themed Disney Hotel New York: The Art of Marvel.

These are my son’s favourite Disney movies, he absolutely loved The Avengers!

Beauty and the Beast

Beauty and the Beast: A selfish prince is cursed to become a hideous beast by a powerful enchantress. To break the curse, he must learn to love and be loved in return. Enter Belle, a kind and intelligent young woman who offers to take her father’s place as the beast’s prisoner. As Belle and the Beast spend time together, a surprising friendship blossoms, and they both begin to learn valuable lessons about true beauty and love. 

Beauty and the Beast theming can be seen in the princess pavilion (timings vary) and the characters appear in the parades. You can also catch a glimpse of some characters in Mickey’s Philharmagic Show.

The original was one of my favourite Disney movies when I was growing up, I wanted to dress like Belle at every opportunity and I loved the fact that she was always reading!

Brave

Merida, a rebellious princess from a headstrong Scottish clan, defies tradition and longs for a life beyond arranged marriages and royal duties. When her actions unleash a dangerous curse on the kingdom, Merida must take charge, mend broken relationships, and discover the true meaning of bravery to save her family and restore balance. 

Merida can be seen in the parades.

Cars

Lightning McQueen, a hotshot rookie race car with dreams of winning the Piston Cup, finds himself stranded in the charming Radiator Springs town along Route 66. As he’s forced to slow down and help the townsfolk, Lightning learns valuable lessons about friendship, humility, and the importance of community. 

Cars theming can be seen in the Studios Park where you will find the Cars ROAD Trip and Cars Quatre Roues Rallye rides.

Cinderella

Disney’s Cinderella, after toiling for her evil stepmother, gets a magical chance to attend a royal ball where she dances with the Prince, but must escape before midnight leaving behind a glass slipper that leads to their happily ever after.

Cinderella can be seen in the Princess Pavillion, in Disney Stars on Parade and as part of the Disney Electrical Sky Parade.

This is yet another of my favourite childhood Disney movies. I loved the whole rags to riches by finding your one true love, a classic fairytale.

Coco

Miguel, a young aspiring musician from a family with a generations-old ban on music, dreams of following in the footsteps of his idol, Ernesto de la Cruz. On Dia de Muertos (Day of the Dead), Miguel accidentally enters the Land of the Dead and seeks the blessing of his deceased ancestor to pursue his musical passion. His heartwarming journey through this colourful and vibrant world teaches him about the importance of family history and honouring traditions. 

You can catch Miguel in the A Million Splashes Of Colour parade and in Mickey’s Philharmagic show. You can also head to Casa de Coco – Restaurante de Familia in Frontierland for authentic Mexican cuisine.

Dumbo

Jumbo Jr., a sweet but clumsy baby elephant with oversized ears, is ostracized by the other animals in the circus. However, Dumbo soon discovers his unique ears allow him to fly, and he becomes a beloved star attraction. This heartwarming tale celebrates embracing your differences and finding your own special talents. 

You can see Dumbo and hitch a ride on the Dumbo the Flying Elephant ride in the Fantasyland area of the main park.

Encanto

The Madrigals, a magical Colombian family living in a hidden and vibrant village, each possess a unique gift. However, Mirabel, the only non-magical member of the family, feels ostracized and longs to prove her worth. When the magic that protects their community is threatened, Mirabel must use her kindness, determination, and resourcefulness to save the day and rediscover the true meaning of family magic.

Mirabel appears in A Milion Splashes of Colour parade. 

This is one of our family’s favourite Disney movies, we all join in singing We Don’t Talk About Bruno!

Fantasia

Immerse yourself in a world of sight and sound with Fantasia, a unique Disney film that combines stunning animation with classical music masterpieces. Each segment tells a story through music and animation, taking you on a magical journey from the whimsical dance of hippopotamuses to the powerful depiction of Night on Bald Mountain. 

Fantasia theming can be seen throughout the main park and the studios in the form of statues, moving ornaments and landscaping in the gardens and flower beds. There is also a hint of the Fantasia magic in Mickey’s Philharmagic show.

Finding Nemo

Marlin, an overprotective clownfish, is devastated when his son Nemo is snatched by a diver. With the help of Dory, a forgetful but optimistic blue tang, Marlin embarks on a daring adventure across the vast ocean to find Nemo. This heartwarming story celebrates father-son love, friendship, and the importance of perseverance. 

Finding Nemo gets a lot of attention at Disneyland Paris. All the main characters appear in the Stars on Parade as well as popping up in the TOGETHER: A Pixar Musical Adventure. There’s also the Crush’s Coaster ride in the studio park.

Frozen

In the magical kingdom of Arendelle, Elsa, a young princess with the power to control ice and snow, accidentally unleashes an eternal winter. Her younger sister Anna, determined to save her kingdom from the cold, sets out on a perilous journey to bring back summer. Frozen is a heartwarming tale of sisterhood, love, and the power of self-acceptance.

Frozen characters appear in the Princess Pavilion, in the parades and in the Frozen: A Musical Invitaton show in the Studios Park.

Indiana Jones

Buckle up for action and adventure with Indiana Jones, a daring archaeologist who travels the globe in search of hidden treasures and ancient artefacts. Join Indy as he battles Nazis’ outwits cunning villains and explores perilous locations in his quest for knowledge and excitement.

Indiana Jones appears in Adventureland near Big Thunder Mountain on the Indiana Jones and the Temple of Peril ride and the Indiana Jones Adventure Outpost. 

Inside Out

Dive inside the mind of Riley, an 11-year-old girl, and meet her emotions: Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust. These personified emotions work together in Headquarters, the control centre of Riley’s mind, to guide her thoughts, feelings, and actions. Inside Out is a clever and insightful film that explores the complexities of human emotions and how they shape our lives. 

Inside Out (Vice Versa in France) characters appear in the parades in the main park. There is also an opportunity to meet Joy for a photo.

Jungle Book

Mowgli, a young orphan boy raised by wolves in the Indian jungle, embarks on a thrilling adventure as he journeys towards the “man village” with his animal friends. Along the way, he encounters a cast of unforgettable characters, including the wise panther Bagheera, the happy-go-lucky bear Baloo, and the menacing tiger Shere Khan. The Jungle Book is a timeless coming-of-age story about friendship, loyalty, and the importance of finding your place in the world. 

As Jungle Book is a classic Disney movie, there is a lot more evidence of it. You can see characters in the parades, and at the meet and greets and there’s also Colonel Hathi’s Outpost Restaurant in Adventureland.

Lilo & Stitch

Lilo, a lonely Hawaiian girl yearning for a friend, adopts Stitch, a mischievous and destructive experiment created by an evil scientist. As Lilo tries to teach Stitch about love, family, and responsibility, they form a heartwarming bond that turns their lives upside down. Lilo & Stitch is a delightful story about friendship, acceptance, and the importance of ‘ohana’ (family). 

Stitch has his own show in the Studios Park called Stitch Live! 

This is one of my daughter’s favourite Disney movies because it stars her favourite character, Stitch!

Lion King

Simba, a carefree lion cub destined for greatness, is forced to flee his pride after the tragic death of his father, Mufasa, at the hands of his envious uncle, Scar. Simba grows up in exile, learning valuable lessons from wise mentors Timon and Pumbaa. However, when his past comes calling, Simba must find the courage to return home, confront his past, and take his rightful place as king. The Lion King is a powerful coming-of-age story about responsibility, overcoming adversity, and the circle of life.

Another classic Disney film so a lot of characters can be spotted. Of course, you can see a lot of characters in the parades, there’s also Restaurant Hakuna Matata in Adventureland but the main Lioni King event is the Rhythms of the Pride Lands Show in Frontierland. It is quite simply spectacular, it felt like being at a West End theatre production.

Mary Poppins

With a spoonful of sugar and a dash of magic, nanny Mary Poppins arrives at the dysfunctional Banks household to bring joy, order, and a touch of wonder back into their lives. Through whimsical songs and fantastical adventures, Mary Poppins helps the Banks children rediscover their imaginations and teaches valuable lessons about family, responsibility, and appreciating the simple joys in life.

Mary Poppins and Bert appear in the Disney Stars on Parade through the main park.

Mickey’s Twice Upon a Christmas

Mickey Mouse and his beloved friends; Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy and Pluto celebrate the spirit of Christmas in this heartwarming collection of holiday stories. Join them as they create new traditions, cherish old memories, and rediscover the magic of the season. This delightful film captures the joy, warmth, and togetherness that make Christmas special. 

As Mickey Mouse is the face of Disney, he is everywhere! You can find him on food, drinks, souvenirs, character meet and greets, parades, shows and even in the flower beds. Other classic characters like Minnie Mouse, Pluto, Donald and Daisy Duck and Goofy can be found in the parades, shows and character meet and greets.

Moana

Moana, a brave Polynesian princess with a connection to the ocean, sets sail on a daring voyage across the Pacific to save her people from a mysterious curse. Joined by the demigod Maui, Moana encounters mythical creatures, navigates treacherous waters, and discovers her true potential as a Wayfinder. Moana is an inspiring story about courage, self-discovery, and the importance of honouring your heritage. 

Moana can be found in the parades and some of the shows.

This is one of Daddy Dino’s favourite Disney movies because he likes the songs.

Mulan

To save her ailing father from serving in the army against a powerful Hun invasion, Mulan, a brave and resourceful young woman, disguises herself as a man and takes his place. Through her courage, intelligence, and unwavering loyalty, Mulan earns the respect of her fellow soldiers and becomes a war hero. Mulan is a timeless tale that celebrates bravery, filial piety, and defying expectations. 

Mulan appears in the Stars on Parade.

Peter Pan

Peter Pan, a mischievous boy who never wants to grow up, whisks Wendy and her brothers away to the magical Neverland, a world filled with mermaids, pirates, and Lost Boys. There, they have exciting adventures, battle the villainous Captain Hook, and learn the importance of friendship and the value of childhood. 

With Peter Pan being another Disney classic, you can find a lot of him and his chums in the park. They appear in the parades and character meet and greets. There’s also the spectacular Peter Pan’s Flight ride in Fantasyland.

Pinocchio

Geppetto, a kind woodcarver, longs for a son. When his wish is granted by a magical Blue Fairy, his wooden puppet Pinocchio comes to life. However, Pinocchio must learn to be honest, brave, and unselfish in order to become a real boy. Join Pinocchio on his journey filled with talking crickets, mischievous foxes, and a whale of a time as he grapples with right and wrong. 

Pinnochio and Geppetto appear in the Disney Stars on Parade as well as having their own ride: Les Voyages de Pinocchio and shop: La Bottega di Gepetto.

Pirates of the Caribbean

Set sail on a swashbuckling adventure with Captain Jack Sparrow, a witty and irreverent pirate captain who navigates the treacherous waters of the Caribbean. Jack finds himself entangled with curses, mythical creatures, and rival pirates on his quests for treasure and freedom. 

Pirates of the Caribbean has its very own swashbuckling ride and it is epic! There’s also Pirate’s Beach, the Pirate Galleon and Captain Jack’s Restaurant des Pirates.

These are Daddy Dino and our daughter’s favourite Disney movies to watch together and the ride was a firm favourite with all of us.

Princess and the Frog

Tiana, a hardworking waitress with dreams of opening her own restaurant, accidentally kisses a prince who has been transformed into a frog by a voodoo curse. Now both frog-amphibians, they must work together to break the curse before it’s too late. This musical adventure set in New Orleans celebrates the power of dreams, perseverance, and finding love in unexpected places. 

Tiana appears in the Princess Pavilion and in the Disney Stars on Parade.

Ratatouille

Remy, a determined rat with a passion for cooking, dreams of becoming a chef in a Parisian restaurant. He teams up with a clumsy kitchen worker named Linguini to create culinary masterpieces, facing hilarious challenges and heartwarming moments along the way. Ratatouille is a delightful story about following your dreams, defying expectations, and the power of friendship.

If you head down past Crush’s Coaster in the Studios, all of a sudden you are transported to a bustling Parisian street. Here is where you can dine at Bistrot Chez Rémy and ride Ratatouille: The Adventure. This was one of my favourite rides at Disneyland Paris, it’s an incredible experience, you can’t see the tracks and no two rides are the same.

Rescue Rangers

Chip and Dale, two chipmunk detectives with a knack for solving mysteries, run a detective agency alongside their friends Gadget, Monterey Jack, and Zipper. They face off against villainous cats, rescue missing objects, and embark on thrilling adventures in their quest to help those in need. 

Chip and Dale appear in the Disney Stars on Parade.

Sleeping Beauty

Aurora, a beautiful princess, is cursed by an evil fairy to prick her finger on a spinning wheel and fall into a deep sleep. Three fairies try to protect her, but the curse takes hold. Years later, a handsome prince ventures into the forest where Aurora sleeps, determined to break the curse with a true love’s kiss. Sleeping Beauty is a classic fairy tale about good versus evil, the power of love, and the importance of breaking curses before bedtime.

Well, the main Sleeping Beauty theming is of course the castle. This is without a doubt the most iconic landmark in the whole of Disneyland Paris. It’s the focal point for the Electrical Sky Parade and Fireworks, you can walk around and explore it in La Galeria de la Belle au Bois Dormant, you can head underneath it to visit La Tanière du Dragon and you can shop in the depths of the castle. You can also see Aurora in the Princess Pavillion and in the Stars on Parade.

Snow White

Snow White, a princess with skin as white as snow, lips as red as a rose, and hair as black as ebony, flees her jealous stepmother, the Evil Queen, and finds refuge with the Seven Dwarfs. With the help of her animal friends and a handsome prince, Snow White must overcome the Evil Queen’s wicked schemes and find her happily ever after. 

Snow White appears in the Princess Pavillion, in the Stars on Parade and in the Snow White Ride: Blanche-Neige et les Sept Nains.

The very first of many Disney movies, the one that paved the way for all the animation magic to come, was Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Released in 1937, it was a groundbreaking achievement in full-length animation and captured the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Star Wars

A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away… Star Wars isn’t technically a Disney movie (acquired by Disney in 2012) but it has become a beloved part of their library. It follows a ragtag group of rebels fighting against the evil Galactic Empire. Join heroes like Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and Han Solo on epic space adventures filled with lightsaber battles, unforgettable characters, and the battle between good and evil.

Head down to Discoveryland in the main park to encounter Star Wars characters, you can get up close and personal with Darth Vader himself in the Welcome to Starport: A Star Wars Encounter and you can join the force on the Star Wars Hyperspace Mountain or Star Tours: The Adventures Continue rides. The Star Tours ride was a favourite with our family and every time you ride it’s a different experience.

Swiss Family Robinson

After their ship is wrecked in a storm, the Robinson family finds themselves stranded on a deserted island. Using their ingenuity and resourcefulness, they build a treehouse home and learn to survive in this new environment. This classic tale celebrates family, cooperation, and the human spirit in the face of adversity.

This not-so-well-known Disney movie is immortalised in Adventureland in La Cabane des Robinson a treetop adventure.

Sword in the Stone

Wart, a young and clumsy boy, dreams of becoming a knight. One day, he encounters Merlin, a powerful but eccentric wizard, who becomes his reluctant mentor. Through magical transformations and wacky adventures, Wart learns valuable lessons about courage, responsibility, and what it truly means to be a king. 

The Arthurian legend is brought to life in Fantasyland, you can have a go at pulling the sword from the stone yourself or take a ride on Le Carrousel de Lancelot.

The Little Mermaid

Ariel, a mermaid princess with a longing for the human world, makes a deal with the sea witch Ursula to trade her voice for legs. With the help of her animal friends and Prince Eric, Ariel embarks on a journey to fulfil her dreams and find true love, but she must learn the true value of her voice and her underwater world.

Ariel can be seen in the Princess Pavilion as well as in the parades.

Another of my favourite Disney movies from my childhood. my favourite song is Part of Your World.

Toy Story

What happens to toys when humans aren’t around? Toy Story takes you into the exciting world of Woody, a brave cowboy doll, and Buzz Lightyear, a fearless space ranger action figure. When a new toy arrives, it disrupts the hierarchy, leading to hilarious adventures, heartwarming moments, and the importance of friendship and loyalty, all from the perspective of your favourite playthings. 

Toy Story takes centre stage in both Discoveryland and the Studios. You can see all your favourite characters in the parades, and meet them at character meet and greets not to mention all the Toy Story themed attractions: Buzz Lightyear Laser Blast, Toy Soldiers Parachute Drop, RC Racer, Slinky Dog Zigzag Spin and Rustler Roundup Shootin’ Gallery.

Winnie the Pooh

Join Winnie the Pooh, a cuddly and lovable bear with a very sweet tooth, on his adventures in the Hundred Acre Wood. Winnie the Pooh and his friends, including Piglet, Eeyore, Tigger, and Rabbit, embark on silly quests for honey, sing silly songs, and experience the simple joys of friendship and imagination.

Winnie the Pooh characters can be seen in character meet and greets just off Main Street USA

Wish

The story of Asha, a sharp-witted and idealistic young woman who lives in the magical kingdom of Rosas. When her community faces trouble, Asha makes a passionate plea to the stars. Her wish is answered in a most unexpected way – by a cosmic force in the form of a little ball of boundless energy called Star. Together, Asha and Star embark on an adventure to confront the devious ruler, King Magnifico, and save Rosas. The film explores themes of courage, friendship, and the power of believing in yourself.

Asha can be seen in Disney Stars on Parade.

Zootopia

In Zootopia, a modern mammal metropolis where predators and prey live together, Judy Hopps, a determined rabbit from the countryside, joins the police force. Despite facing prejudice for her size, Judy teams up with a cynical fox named Nick Wilde to solve a mysterious case and prove that anyone can be anything they set their mind to. Zootopia celebrates diversity, breaking stereotypes, and the importance of working together to create a better world.

Judy can be seen in Disney Stars on Parade.

So there you have it! By incorporating a few movie marathons into your pre-trip prep, you can ensure your Disneyland Paris adventure is bursting with magic for everyone. Whether it’s soaring through the skies with Peter Pan or joining Buzz Lightyear on a galactic mission, a little bit of familiarity with the stories goes a long way to enhance your family’s enjoyment of these amazing rides, shows and parades.

For young kids, watching the associated Disney movies can drastically enhance their park experience. They’ll recognise characters, settings, and even plot points coming to life around them. This can transform a passive ride into an interactive adventure, fueling their imaginations and sparking endless excitement.

Even for adults, revisiting these classic tales can be a delightful way to reconnect with your inner child. You’ll appreciate the intricate details woven into the park’s design and storytelling, adding a whole new layer of enjoyment to your visit.

Remember, this list of Disney movies is just a starting point. With countless Disney and Pixar films to explore, the possibilities are endless. So, grab some popcorn, dim the lights, and get ready to embark on a cinematic journey that will set the stage for an unforgettable trip to Disneyland Paris. Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, a little movie magic can go a long way in making your Parisian Disney adventure truly extraordinary. I hope you have a wonderful time!

Let me know in the comments which are your family’s favourite Disney movies.