Disney: The 4 Best & 5 Worst Direct-To-Video Sequels To Disney's Animated Classics

Disney's reign over animated children's movies is iconic. That said, some of the sequels are rather lackluster and pale in comparison to the hit films that inspired them. From the adventures of Wendy and Peter Pan to Cinderella's happily ever after, the narratives that follow the classic Disney originals are hit and miss, with some elevating the original storylines to new heights and others that flop upon release.

Here is a look at five of the best and five of the worst direct-to-video sequels to Disney's animated classics.

9
Worst - The Fox And The Hound 2

In this sequel, the fox and the hound (again) have their friendship tested. The original film was a tear-jerking symphony of heartache and laughter. And its ending was a (heartbreakingly) fantastic conclusion to the tale of the fox and hound.


Simply put, the original was great, and it did not require (nor benefit) from a sequel.

8
Best - Beauty And The Beast: The Enchanted Christmas

This 1997 sequel was a great addition to the original movie because it warms the festive hearts of families that celebrate that holiday. It centers around Belle and the Beast opening the castle up for a holiday party where the entire village is invited. This a great tale of forgiveness, moving forward and remembering what the spirit of Christmas truly means.

7
Worst - Atlantis II: Milo's Return

Not only was this sequel unwarranted, but the animation difference is also so prominent that it almost fully contorts Kida's appearance. The original film had a great ending and didn't require a sequel, so this addition simply feels like a money-grab. That's especially true when you consider just how different this one is.

6
Best - Pocahontas II: Journey To A New World

This 1998 sequel follows Pocahontas as she travels to England, attempts to assimilate to English culture, reacquaints with John Smith, and marries John Rolfe. While the Pocahontas movies tend to throw historical accuracy out the window, this addition is a guilty pleasure film that shows the hypocritical barbarousness of England's cultural tendencies while the English characters choose to point the finger at Pocahontas and her people.

The iconic song from the movie, "Where Do I Go From Here" is also a fantastic inclusion to the symphony of Disney sing-a-longs.

5
Worst - The Hunchback Of Notre Dame II

Not only is the animation exceedingly different from the original film, but it also simply was not needed. Yes, it's nice to see Quasimodo fall in love with a great girl, but when Disney adapted the original movie from the book, the company also created a screenplay that tied up the original loose ends of the film. The Hunchback of Notre Dame was a divine standalone film.

4
Best - Brother Bear II

Now that Kenai has accepted and embraces his role as a brother and bear, his story continues with him encountering his human friend Nita. Nita is meant to marry another man, however, she must burn an amulet that Keani gave her many years ago. So, the three go on a quest to destroy the amulet, but those feeling Kenai felt for Nita reignite along the way.

3
Worst - Mulan II

This 2004 direct-to-video sequel had some promise; however, Mulan II lacked substance and changed its voice actors. While it is common to change voice actors in these sequels, the distinction between the original film and the sequel was distracting and pulled audiences away from the rather forgettable storyline, which was Mulan aiding in the travel of the Emperor's three daughters as they travel across the countryside to meet their betrothed.

2
Best - The Lion King II: Simba's Pride

One of the best sequels to a Disney Original is The Lion King II: Simba's Pride. This film follows the next generation of lions as Simba's daughter falls in love with Scar's son, Kovu. Not only is Simba the king of pride rock, but his storylines also reign over all other Disney sequels.

From an adaptation of Shakespeare's Hamlet to one of Romeo and Juliet, this sequel is a fantastic addition to The Lion King Movies.

1
Worst - Cinderella II: Dreams Come True

Rated at a paltry 11% on Rotten Tomatoes, much is lacking in this Disney sequel. This 2002 film follows Jaq and Gus as they narrate Cinderella's new life as a princess. Some common complaints were that this lacked true drama and that the stories seemed episodic rather than cinematic.
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