Disney’s Animated Releases 2020-2025: A Mixed Bag of Successes

The period from 2020 to late 2025 has proven to be a tumultuous era for Disney’s animated films, marked by a blend of critical successes and notable failures. As the studio navigates the shifting landscape of theatrical releases and streaming demands, the inconsistency in quality has become glaringly apparent. This article delves into the varying reception of Disney’s animated features during these years, spotlighting how the studio has grappled with balancing innovation and audience expectations.

Struggles with Theatrical Prestige and Streaming Demands

Disney’s animated output in this period reflects a broader struggle to maintain its legacy of excellence while adapting to the evolving demands of the entertainment industry. The studio has oscillated between ambitious original projects and safe returns to established franchises. This inconsistency has resulted in a mixed output, with some films achieving immediate success while others quickly faded from public memory.

The studio’s latest release, featuring the character Asha, was anticipated as a grand return to form. Unfortunately, it was criticized as a hollow corporate product rather than a whimsical tribute to Disney’s storytelling roots. The plot revolves around King Magnifico, who hoards the wishes of his citizens to retain his power. Despite its intriguing premise, the execution fell flat, relying heavily on nostalgic references and failing to develop a compelling narrative. Critics noted that the film’s visual style, a combination of watercolor textures and 3D animation, often appeared unfinished, and the musical numbers lacked the catchy appeal of Disney’s best.

Successes and Failures of Recent Releases

The sequel to the beloved Moana saw the return of the titular character and the demigod Maui on a quest to break a curse separating the islands of Oceania. While the animation remained visually stunning, the film suffered from an episodic plot that detracted from the narrative’s impact. The absence of Lin-Manuel Miranda‘s songwriting was felt, resulting in a film that, while enjoyable, lacked the essential magic of its predecessor.

On a more positive note, Raya and the Last Dragon has been praised for its breathtaking visuals and strong combat choreography. This action-heavy fantasy follows the warrior Raya as she seeks the legendary dragon Sisu to unite a fractured world. While the film’s world-building was commendable, it faced criticism for its muddled thematic resolution, which some felt oversimplified complex political issues.

Conversely, the film featuring the family of legendary explorers, the Clades, struggled to resonate with audiences. Although the animation team excelled in crafting a vibrant, alien landscape, the narrative was hampered by a heavy-handed environmental message and a generational conflict that felt stale. Ultimately, this film suffered from poor marketing and failed to captivate viewers.

In contrast, the return of Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde in their latest adventure has garnered acclaim. Critics hailed this sequel as a standout, noting its ability to tackle complex themes of xenophobia and class while maintaining the charm of its predecessor. The animation quality and detailed world-building contributed to its success, making it a rare sequel that not only matched but in some areas surpassed the original.

Another highlight of this era is Encanto, which became a cultural phenomenon. The story of Mirabel, the ordinary member of the magical Madrigal family, resonated with audiences worldwide. Its soundtrack, led by the hit “We Don’t Talk About Bruno,” dominated music charts, while the film’s exploration of generational trauma and family expectations struck a chord with viewers without relying on a traditional villain.

As Disney continues to release animated features through late 2025, the question remains: which of these films will endure the test of time? The studio’s ability to innovate while adhering to its core values will be crucial in shaping its future in animation.