The ultimate guide to Disney+ hidden gems

Disney+ launched with over 1,200 movies and TV shows, including exclusive originals like “The Mandalorian,” which attracted 10 million subscribers on its first day. This vast library offers a wealth of lesser-known content waiting to be discovered alongside its classic and blockbuster offerings.

Underrated Animated Shorts

One of the standout animated shorts available on Disney+ is “Feast,” an Oscar-winning piece from 2014. This short film tells the story of a dog’s life through the meals he shares with his owner, showcasing Pixar’s ability to convey deep emotion without the use of dialogue. The visual storytelling and emotional depth make it a must-watch for animation enthusiasts.

Another gem is “Paperman,” a 2012 short that blends 2D and 3D animation techniques to create a unique visual style. Set in 1940s New York, this romantic tale captures the magic of chance encounters and the power of love, all in a beautifully rendered black-and-white palette. The innovative animation techniques used in “Paperman” highlight Disney Animation’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of storytelling.

“The Blue Umbrella,” directed by Saschka Unseld, is another captivating short that can be found on Disney+. Released in 2013, it tells the story of anthropomorphic umbrellas navigating a rainy city night. This short uses the metaphor of connection to explore themes of companionship and love, making it a touching addition to Disney’s collection of animated shorts.

In addition to these well-known shorts, Disney+ also offers “Lorenzo,” a lesser-known but visually stunning short film that tells the story of a cat whose tail comes to life. Directed by Mike Gabriel, this short combines vibrant colors and a tango-inspired soundtrack to create a whimsical yet dark narrative. “Lorenzo” showcases Disney’s ability to blend humor with a touch of the macabre, making it a unique addition to the platform’s animated offerings.

Another noteworthy short is “Get a Horse!,” which cleverly combines classic hand-drawn animation with modern 3D techniques. Released in 2013, it features Mickey Mouse and friends in a nostalgic yet innovative adventure that breaks the fourth wall. This short pays homage to Disney’s animation legacy while demonstrating the studio’s commitment to innovation and creativity.

Forgotten Series

Disney+ offers a revival of “The Proud Family,” which began airing new episodes in 2021. This series continues to follow the adventures of Penny Proud, voiced by Kyla Pratt, and introduces new characters voiced by celebrities like Zachary Quinto as Dr. Vincent Parker. The revival maintains the charm of the original series while updating its themes for a modern audience.

“High School Musical: The Musical: The Series” is another live-action series that has captured the attention of Disney+ viewers. Set at East High in Salt Lake City, Utah, the series follows students as they stage a production of the iconic musical. With Olivia Rodrigo playing the character Nini Salazar-Roberts, the show combines nostalgia with fresh storytelling, appealing to both new fans and those who grew up with the original films.

For fans of buddy cop comedies, “Turner & Hooch” offers a modern take on the classic film. Starring Josh Peck as Deputy U.S. Marshal Scott Turner, the series follows his adventures with a slobbery dog in Sacramento, California. This reboot brings humor and heart to the small screen, making it a delightful addition to Disney+’s lineup of live-action series.

“The Mysterious Benedict Society,” based on the popular book series by Trenton Lee Stewart, is another intriguing live-action series available on Disney+. The show follows a group of gifted orphans recruited by the eccentric Mr. Benedict, played by Tony Hale, to stop a global emergency known as “The Emergency.” With its clever plot twists and engaging characters, the series offers a blend of mystery and adventure that appeals to both young viewers and adults.

Additionally, “Diary of a Future President” provides a heartfelt look at the life of a young Cuban-American girl named Elena, portrayed by Tess Romero, as she navigates middle school while aspiring to become the President of the United States. The series, narrated by Gina Rodriguez as the adult Elena, offers a humorous and inspiring perspective on growing up and pursuing one’s dreams, making it a valuable addition to Disney+’s diverse lineup.

Obscure Documentaries and Specials

“The Imagineering Story,” a six-part docuseries by Leslie Iwerks, provides an in-depth look at the history of Walt Disney Imagineering. Spanning 65 years, the series chronicles the development of Disney’s theme parks from the opening of Disneyland in Anaheim in 1955 to the present day. This documentary offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the creativity and innovation that have defined Disney’s theme park experiences.

“Howard,” directed by Don Hahn, is another compelling documentary available on Disney+. It focuses on the life and career of songwriter Howard Ashman, whose work was instrumental in the success of Disney Renaissance films like “The Little Mermaid.” The documentary explores Ashman’s contributions to Disney’s musical legacy and his untimely death from AIDS in 1991, providing a poignant tribute to his enduring impact on the world of animation.

“Marvel’s 616” is another documentary series that delves into the rich history of Marvel Comics and its cultural impact. Each episode, directed by different filmmakers, explores various aspects of Marvel’s legacy, from the creation of iconic characters to the influence of comic book culture on society. This series provides an insightful look at the creative minds behind Marvel’s success and the stories that have captivated audiences for decades.

“Into the Unknown: Making Frozen 2” offers a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of the blockbuster animated film “Frozen 2.” This six-part series follows the filmmakers, artists, and voice actors as they bring the beloved characters of Arendelle back to life. It provides a fascinating glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of producing a major animated feature, highlighting the dedication and creativity of the Disney Animation team.

Hidden Marvel and Star Wars Content

Marvel fans can explore alternate timelines in the animated series “What If…?” which began airing in 2021. Voiced by Jeffrey Wright as The Watcher, the series imagines different scenarios within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, such as “What If… Captain Carter Were the First Avenger?” This creative exploration of alternate realities offers a fresh perspective on beloved characters and storylines.

For Star Wars enthusiasts, the final season of “Star Wars: The Clone Wars” is a must-watch. Released in 2020, the season includes episodes featuring Ahsoka Tano, voiced by Ashley Eckstein, and is set during the Clone Wars era leading up to Order 66. This season provides a satisfying conclusion to the series, deepening the lore of the Star Wars universe.

“Ms. Marvel,” which premiered in 2022, introduces audiences to Kamala Khan, played by Iman Vellani. This series follows a Jersey City teen who gains superpowers, with filming locations in Atlanta, Georgia. “Ms. Marvel” brings a fresh and diverse perspective to the Marvel universe, highlighting the experiences of a young superhero navigating her newfound abilities and cultural identity.

“Star Wars: Visions” is another exciting addition to Disney+’s Star Wars content, offering a collection of animated short films created by Japanese anime studios. Each episode presents a unique vision of the Star Wars universe, blending traditional anime styles with the iconic elements of the franchise. This anthology series showcases the diverse storytelling possibilities within the Star Wars galaxy, appealing to both anime fans and Star Wars enthusiasts.

For those interested in exploring the Marvel universe further, “Loki,” starring Tom Hiddleston, offers a thrilling exploration of the God of Mischief’s adventures across time and space. The series delves into themes of identity and destiny, providing a deeper understanding of Loki’s character and his place within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. With its engaging plot and charismatic performances, “Loki” has become a standout series on Disney+.