What are Gen Z’s Favorite Disney Movies?

Gen Z’s favorite Disney movies often emphasize themes of identity, resilience and cultural representation, drawn from surveys, social media trends and discussions in 2024 and 2025.

Here’s the TL;DR...

• Frozen leads with its anthems on self-empowerment that defined childhood for many in this generation.

• Encanto gains traction from family dynamics and viral songs addressing generational trauma.

• Inside Out series stands out for exploring mental health issues like anxiety in relatable ways.

• Moana appeals through stories of independence and heritage exploration.

• Tangled draws fans with adventure and personal growth narratives.

• Big Hero 6 connects via tech innovation and diverse friendships.

• Zootopia sparks interest in social justice topics like prejudice.

• Lilo & Stitch resonates with quirky family bonds and the “ohana” concept.

• Mulan inspires with defiance against norms and warrior spirit.

• Treasure Planet emerges as an underrated pick for its sci-fi twists on classics.

• Brother Bear gets mentions for emotional depth and underrated storytelling.

• The Emperor’s New Groove charms with humor and cult status.

Frozen Tops Lists for Its Empowering Songs and Sisterhood

Frozen holds a special place for Gen Z, who grew up singing “Let It Go” at every opportunity. Reddit users in 2025 threads recall it as a staple of their early years, blending magic with emotional honesty. The film’s focus on breaking free from expectations keeps it fresh.

Encanto Captures Attention with Family Pressures and Catchy Tunes

Encanto surged in popularity via TikTok, where “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” became a phenomenon. Gen Z commenters highlight its portrayal of sibling dynamics and inherited burdens as deeply relatable. The movie’s cultural elements add layers that spark ongoing conversations.

Inside Out Films Help Gen Z Navigate Emotions

The Inside Out series addresses joy, sadness and now anxiety in the 2024 sequel. Fans at events and online note how these stories mirror school stresses and mental health challenges. Pixar’s approach makes complex feelings accessible without oversimplifying.

Moana Inspires with Journeys of Self-Discovery

Moana’s tale of defying tradition to save her people resonates strongly. Released in 2016, it aligned with Gen Z’s formative years and promotes autonomy. Discussions tie its themes to finding purpose in uncertain times.

Tangled Appeals Through Adventure and Relatability

Tangled refreshes fairy tales with Rapunzel’s curiosity and escape from isolation. Older Gen Z members on forums praise its humor and soundtrack as nostalgic highlights. The story’s emphasis on growth strikes chords in a connected yet lonely world.

Big Hero 6 Blends Action with Heartfelt Bonds

Big Hero 6 mixes superhero elements with loss and innovation. Analyses from 2023 and 2025 point to its diverse cast and tech focus appealing to gadget-savvy Gen Z. Baymax’s role provides both laughs and comfort.

Zootopia Tackles Social Issues in Engaging Ways

Zootopia uses animals to explore bias and cooperation. As a 2016 hit, it fits Gen Z’s push for inclusivity. Online praise centers on its subtle lessons that encourage empathy.

Lilo & Stitch Builds Loyalty with Unique Family Stories

Lilo & Stitch’s “ohana means family” message endures in polls. Gen Z appreciates the Hawaiian setting and alien antics mixed with real emotions. It’s seen as grounding amid fun chaos.

Mulan Stands Out for Defiance and Cultural Depth

Mulan’s 1998 original and remakes keep it relevant through streams. Forum users value its gender-bending plot as progressive. The warrior arc inspires across ages.

Treasure Planet Gains Cult Following Among Gen Z

Treasure Planet appears frequently as an underrated favorite in Reddit threads. Its space adventure reimagining of classics draws praise for animation and rebellion. Four mentions in one 2025 discussion underscore its appeal.

Brother Bear Earns Praise for Emotional Complexity

Brother Bear gets called out as underrated with a “beautifully complex story.” Two users in recent threads note it brings tears through themes of transformation. It’s a quieter pick that hits deep.

The Emperor’s New Groove Delights with Witty Humor

The Emperor’s New Groove holds cult status for its comedy. Mentions highlight it as a fun, quotable escape. Gen Z lists often include it alongside groove-worthy classics.

Disney films continue to evolve alongside Gen Z, offering mirrors to their experiences while providing escapism. As this generation enters adulthood, these movies foster nostalgia and reflection on growth. Future releases targeting Gen Z, like those pitched for young men, could expand this legacy and keep the studio connected.

Hat Tips

• Reddit r/GenZ, “What’s your favourite Disney movie?”, February 28, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/GenZ/comments/1j0bor7/whats_your_favourite_disney_movie/

• Variety, “Disney Urgently Seeking Movies for Gen Z Men”, August 21, 2025, https://variety.com/2025/film/news/disney-marvel-lucasfilm-gen-z-1236494681/

• The Guardian, “Honey, I lost the kids: is generation Z done with Disney?”, August 18, 2024

• Reddit r/Letterboxd, “What’s an animated movie that’s popular among Gen Z?”, October 3, 2024, https://www.reddit.com/r/Letterboxd/comments/1fv7cbf/whats_an_animated_movie_thats_popular_among_gen_z/

• MovieWeb, “10 Animated Movies That Define Gen Z”, September 13, 2023

• Reddit r/GenZ, “what are your 10 favorite Disney/Pixar movies growing up”, March 4, 2023, https://www.reddit.com/r/GenZ/comments/11ifb23/what_are_your_10_favorite_disneypixar_movies/

• MIDiA Research, “Why Disney’s Encanto is a cross-generational success”, September 19, 2024

• Screen Rant, “Disney Seeks Pitches For Gen Z Male Audience After Minecraft Movie Success”, August 21, 2025

Article Compiled and Edited by Derek Gibbs on December 12, 2025 for Clownfish TV D/REZZED.