15 best dramas on Disney+ that’ll stir your emotions

Looking for a movie that really moves you? Try one of the dramas on Disney+. The streaming service offers a range of family-friendly films that can be enjoyed by viewers of all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking for a compelling period piece, an enchanting musical, or a riveting sports story, Disney+ has something to satisfy your itch for a dramatic tale. 

So get your emotions ready because here are the best dramas on Disney+ right now.

This fanciful dramedy brings mature sensibilities to the Winnie the Pooh franchise. In it, a grown-up Christopher Robin (Ewan McGregor), now living in London, is brought back to his roots after he receives a surprise visit from his childhood friend, Winnie the Pooh.

Christopher Robin is an imaginative and charming film, particularly to those of us who grew up alongside the animals of the Hundred Acre Wood. Plus, the stuffed-animal-style Pooh and friends are so cute.

Where to watch: Christopher Robin is streaming on Disney+. 

2. Beauty and the Beast (1991)

While Disney’s more recent hits have a heavy emphasis on the comedy, several films in its ‘90s collection leaned into the drama — and Beauty and the Beast was no exception.

Recounting the story of a young French maiden who stumbles into the enchanted castle of a prince-turned-beast, this classic animation is one of Disney’s most romantic. But while the ballroom and library scenes are sweet and swoon-worthy, the movie has a lot more going for it. The incredible Howard Ashman-penned musical numbers like “Be Our Guest” and “Gaston” are delightful, while the lush animations are breathtaking.

Where to watch: Beauty and the Beast is streaming on Disney+. 

Loosely based on the nonfiction book of the same name by Margot Lee Shetterly, Hidden Figures tells the stories of the Black female mathematicians who, while working at NASA, became the unsung heroes of the space race. Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monáe deliver captivating performances as the women they represent. The appealing script and classy ‘60s aesthetics are an added bonus to this excellent film.

Where to watch: Hidden Figures is streaming on Disney+. 

4. Saving Mr. Banks

Saving Mr. Banks isn’t a completely accurate retelling of the making of Mary Poppins, but it is a heartwarming one.

This period drama follows Mary Poppins author P. L. Travers (Emma Thompson) as she travels to Hollywood to discuss turning her beloved book series into a movie with Walt Disney (Tom Hanks) himself. Thompson seamlessly plays the protective author while Hanks brings an eccentric energy to the movie maker. Their competing personalities make for some engaging onscreen chemistry.

Where to watch: Saving Mr. Banks is streaming on Disney+. 

5. Queen of Katwe

Before The Queen’s Gambit became the talk of the internet, Queen of Katwe delivered a delightful story about a star chess player — only this one was real. 

Based on the life of Phiona Mutesi, this biographical drama follows a girl from Uganda who uses her newfound chess skills to climb the competitive ladder and escape poverty in the process. The film’s poignant messages, carried by the talented performances of David Oyelowo and Lupita Nyong’o, makes it a true champion.

Where to watch: Queen of Katwe is streaming on Disney+. 

Raise a glass to freedom and the fact that you can stream Hamilton as much as you desire. You’ll definitely want to, because no matter how many times you’ve rapped along to “My Shot” or “Guns and Ships,” there’s nothing quite like seeing the massive dance numbers and dazzling costumes accompany the story of the famous Founding Father’s life on screen. Just make sure you have those tissues handy for Act 2.

Where to watch: Hamilton is streaming on Disney+. 

7. Mulan (1998)

You could watch the new live-action Mulan movie, which takes its task as a war drama very seriously. Or, you could watch the original animated film, which sends its heroine on a lively adventure to save China while showing off a witty script, relatable characters, and heartfelt themes of family and honor. (OK, just watch this one).

While the new Mulan is visually impressive, the 1998 film spins a story that’s vibrant and inspirational. Let’s not ignore its epic soundtrack, which spotlights songs like “Reflection” and “I’ll Make a Man Out of You,” or — most importantly — Mushu.

Where to watch: Mulan is streaming on Disney+. 

8. Togo

Set during a frosty 1925 winter, Togo recounts the true historical journey of Leonhard Seppala (Willem Dafoe) to transport medicine to an Alaskan town with help from his lead sled dog. The Disney+ original film is exciting (thanks to the treacherous journey) and sweet (thanks to the bond between Seppala and his husky). Its earnest plot is well-executed, giving the tale a sense of timelessness.

Where to watch: Togo is streaming on Disney+. 

9.  Hunchback of Notre Dame

Although The Hunchback of Notre Dame came out during the height of Disney Animation in the ‘90s, it’s oftentimes overlooked — but it shouldn’t be. The musical is one of Disney’s most complex, exploring heavy themes like genocide and damnation as lonely bell ringer Quasimodo longs to escape the Cathedral of Notre-Dame and live among the people. This, in combination with its striking visuals and moving musical numbers, makes the movie one of the more unique yet beautiful Disney masterpieces.

Where to watch: Hunchback of Notre Dame is streaming on Disney+. 

10. The Sound of Music

With romance, spirit, and the angelic voice of Julie Andrews, it’s no wonder The Sound of Music is a classic. 

In the musical drama, Maria (Andrews) teaches the von Trapp children a bunch of ridiculously catchy songs; Christopher Plummer plays a dashing love interest; and dreamy shots of the Austrian countryside grace the screen. The Sound of Music just radiates warmth.

Where to watch: The Sound of Music is streaming on Disney+. 

11. Remember the Titans

There’s something deeply moving about a sports film, especially when it’s this iconic. Remember the Titans tells the real-life story of coach Herman Boone (Denzel Washington), who tried to integrate T.C. Williams High School’s football team in the ‘70s in Virginia. It mixes the thrill of games with encouraging messages as its teens attempt to overcome their differences and join together. Combining strong performances with big emotions, Remember the Titans hits hard.

Where to watch: Remember the Titans is streaming on Disney+. 

12. Bambi

Thanks to its sweet story and hand-drawn animations, Bambi is the perfect drama for families.

The endearing animals and enchanting soundtrack make the movie worthwhile. But its touching story — which has its titular deer facing the joys and pains of growing up — is what makes it endure nearly 80 years after its initial release.

Where to watch: Bambi is streaming on Disney+. 

13. Bridge to Terabithia

Based on Katherine Paterson’s novel of the same name, Bridge to Terabithia has a couple of bullied 12-year-old neighbors dreaming up a fantasy world that helps them escape the harsh realities of everyday life. The coming-of-age drama blends whimsy with loss in a way that feels authentic.

Additionally, a young Josh Hutcherson and AnnaSophia Robb bring a comfort to the lead roles that makes Bridge to Terabithia feel deeply sentimental whether you grew up watching it or are checking it out for the first time.

Where to watch: Bridge to Terabithia is streaming on Disney+. 

14. Tarzan

Disney’s Tarzan explores what happens after a group of English travelers arrive in Africa in hopes of finding gorillas but instead encounter a man who’s been raised by them — and boy, this tale is spirited. It’s got thrilling action sequences, sharp visuals, a Phil Collins soundtrack that does not quit, and a touching story that focuses on themes of identity and belonging. Who doesn’t love an animated adventure?

Where to watch: Tarzan is streaming on Disney+. 

Need something new? Try Pixar’s latest, Soul, which catches up with middle school music teacher Joe Gardner (Jamie Foxx) after he falls through a New York City manhole and is sent to the mysterious Great Before — a place where unborn souls prepare to be sent to earth. 

The film curiously contemplates ideas about life and death while packing in snappy humor, colorful visuals, and a killer jazz soundtrack. It’s brimming with personality.

Where to watch: Soul is streaming on Disney+.