Having first released a feature film in 1937, Walt Disney Pictures has been making live-action and animated hits for over 80 years. While every production period has been notable, from the early days to more recent years, the films created during the ’70s should not be overlooked. That’s what we’re here to look at now.
The popular movie and TV show website known as IMDb has assigned every Disney film a star rating, based on the votes of registered users on a scale of 1 to 10. This is what we’ll be using to stack up all of the studio’s films from the ’70s. Its also worth noting that while we’ll be counting both theatrical and TV releases, we won’t be including documentaries in the mix. With the logistics out of the way, it’s time to grab some popcorn, gather ‘round the big screen, and blast to the past; Here are the best Disney movies from the 1970s, according to IMDb.
No Deposit, No Return (1976) - 6.6
This family comedy told of a set of children who end up getting entangled in the schemes of two dumb criminals. Their hope is to trick the adults into funding their plane tickets to visit their mom in China.
However, both groups eventually become fond of each other, their plans begin to take the sidelines. Though the plot could have been improved upon, the film remains memorable nonetheless.
The Omega Connection (1979) - 6.7
Known as The London Connection in other countries, this made-for-TV spy film relayed the tale of two teenagers on a mission to track down a man who is abducted by criminals in London.
Though it might be hard to track down this film today (no, it’s not reached Disney+), the film was well-received by many upon its release.
The North Avenue Irregulars (1979) - 6.8
In 1979, this comedy crime film rushed into theaters. It told of a man who arrives as the new minister at North Avenue Presbyterian Church in California.
After he assigns the church’s sinking fund to a woman whose husband is known for gambling (and he bets the money on a horse race), a long line of crazy events ensue. The quirky humor was beloved at the time of its release, causing many to feel nostalgic for the classic story.
Candleshoe (1977) - 6.8
Now this is one you can stream on Disney+ right now. This ‘77 adventure film tells of a young orphan named Casey who teams up with con-men in an attempt to nab a treasure hidden inside of an elderly woman’s estate.
Though the girl (played by Jodie Foster) at first acts as the woman’s granddaughter in order to assist the criminals, she instead finds herself searching out the prize in an attempt to keep the bad guys away from it. The film’s strong cast, comedy, and overall fun has it ranking high for many who grew up alongside it.
The Rescuers (1977) - 6.9
This ‘77 adventure film tells of two mice who are part of the Rescue Aid Society in New York City. This team, which is part of the United Nations, helps out those who are in need. When the mice learn that a young orphan girl has been abducted by the evil Madame Medusa, the pair sets out to return her home with the assistance of their friends.
The lovely animations and imagination had this film garnering a round of applause from many. It became the first Disney animation to receive a sequel. The follow-up film, The Rescuers Down Under, released in 1990.
A Tale Of Two Critters (1977) - 7.0
This live-action adventure tells of a bear cub and raccoon who end up befriending each other. Though their relationship is unlikely, they live out their days in the Pacific Northwest where they encounter all sorts of adventure together.
The 48-minute film was released alongside The Rescuers as part of a double feature. Although the movie didn’t become a classic, it is nonetheless remembered by those who grew up with it. This is an underappreciated gem that’s definitely worth seeking out.
The Littlest Horse Thieves (1976) - 7.1
This British-American family drama, which was titled Escape from the Dark in the United Kingdom, tells of a group of children who learn that the pit ponies used to collect coal are going to be killed. Upon hearing the news that machinery will be filling in for the animals, the kids plan to steal the horses in an attempt to let them run free.
Though the movie’s original release was modest, it was definitely emotional and sweet. Many who saw it at the time of its arrival looked fondly upon its impact.
The Aristocrats (1970) - 7.1
This classic Disney animation tells of a mother cat and her kittens who live under the roof a retired opera singer in 1910 Paris. The woman decides that she wants her fortune to be left to her pets after she dies, but after her butler hears this, he sets out to rid of the cats. Though the butler is unsuccessful, the cat family is left far from home and must journey back with the help of an alley cat they encounter.
The fun songs, memorable characters, and enchanting charm had this one ranking high in the books of many critics. Thankfully for fans of this classic, it has left the Disney Vault and is now available for streaming on Disney+.
Robin Hood (1973) - 7.6
The adventures of Robin Hood - the legendary outlaw who robbed the rich to give to the poor - were adapted by Disney in 1973.
This animated fantasy tells of the hero and his sidekick, Little John, who deal with the prince’s attempt to put unreasonable taxes on the residents of the Sherwood Forest. Alongside his merry men, they battle the land’s biggest enemies. With a strong voice cast, wit, and beautiful art style, the film received great praise at the time of its release.
The Many Adventures Of Winnie The Pooh (1977) - 7.6
Topping off the list is the adorable tale about Christopher Robin and his stuffed animals.
This 1977 animated musical combined the stories of Winnie the Pooh and the Honey Tree, Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day, and Winnie the Pooh and Tigger Too into one giant tale. It also popularized the Winnie the Poohfranchise as a whole, which remains important to children everywhere today.
