You’ve watched The Imagineering Story, The Mandalorian, and absolutely every episode of Disney’s Fairytale Weddings. Think you’ve reached the end of binge-worthy content on Disney+? Think again. Its time for your Charmingly Retro Disney Plus movie marathon. We’ve scouted the best picks from the 70s, 80s, and 90s and found the movies that actually hold up in 2020. Get your popcorn bucket ready and jump into this retro movie watchlist!
The Rocketeer (1991)
When’s the last time you watched The Rocketeer? The flick delivers the golden era of Los Angeles in the 1930s with a healthy splash of art deco styling. You’ll get a fresh reminder of how truly ageless Jennifer Conolley is while drooling over the incredible vintage wardrobe, hair, and makeup looks. The story follows all the Hollywood classic tropes – entertaining, light, and fun – and is strong enough to allow forgiveness for the Industrial Light and Magic special effects.
Splash (1984)
Mermaids in New York City, Tom Hanks in his prime, John Candy as the sidekick and Ron Howard in the director’s chair – you know this is going to be magical. Splash follows the story of a hopeless romantic in a new relationship with a beautiful woman that’s secretly a mermaid (secretly a mermaid? us too.) The flick is still laugh-out-loud funny and downright heartwarming. We call this 80s rom-com the perfect addition to your retro movie marathon.
Newsies (1992)
Get ready for toe-tapping, sing-along fun as Newsies slings The Daily Banner your way. A young Christian Bale will steal your heart and make you seriously question why the star hasn’t gifted us with more song and dance moments in his later years. The film inspired a Broadway hit musical, which ran from 2014 to 2016 and enchanted fans worldwide. Still, no stage version could truly replace this classic’s home in the Disney library.
The Princess Bride (1987)
The Princess Bride. Need we say more? No retro movie marathon would be complete without a viewing of this 80s classic. A telling of a princess torn from her young love, the film is equal parts comedy, romance, adventure, and fantasy. With more memorable quotes than we can count this one deserves a watch or two, or three. INCONCEIVABLE!
The Muppet Movie (1979)
Passed from generation to generation, The Muppets are the gift from Jim Henson that just keeps on giving. Starring the whole crew, The Muppet Movie is a 70s gem that never fails to delight. Jam-packed with mega-star cameos from the likes of Steve Martin and Mel Brooks, the film delivers the iconic cinema moment of Kermit strumming his banjo to the melody of The Rainbow Connection.
Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (1989)
Let the nostalgia wave wash over you while you press play on Honey, I Shrunk The Kids. The movie still proves to be a fun watch almost 30 years later with plenty of jokes that stand the test of time. We can see why the film held the top spot for the highest-grossing Disney live-action film for five years. And yes, we’re still having dreams of digging into those oversized oatmeal creme pies.
Sister Act (1992)
Whoopi, Whoopi, WHOOPI! Finish your dip into the 90s with Sister Act. The film serves up gut-busting laughs and songs that will have you clapping along from the couch. You can’t help but root for this plucky squad of choir nuns! Whoopi Goldberg and Maggie Smith deliver memorable character performances and plenty of fun. Bonus: you’ll be prepped and ready for when Sister Act 3 (currently under development) makes its way onto Disney+.
What’s on your retro Disney movie watchlist? Let us know in the comments below. For now, we say add these flicks to your Disney Plus list – stat!
