Everyone has a favorite Disney movie. The imagination, music, and sense of wonder all tug at some small part of ourselves that never grew up. Throughout the years, Disney movies have taught viewers several things: to chase your dreams, believe in yourself, have courage and be kind. While Christians have sparred with companies over their representation and methods, there’s no denying that Disney has a permanent place in our childhood hearts. From miracles from heaven to princesses who pray, these classic movies from Walt Disney incorporate more spiritual elements than you may notice. Here are some Disney movies with Christian messages.
"Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs"
“Snow White” was the first animated Disney film, and it has held up pretty well throughout the years. It’s not as empowering or coherent as new movies like “Frozen,” but it’s the only Disney film with an openly Christian princess. Some viewers may remember that halfway through the storyline, there’s a scene where Snow White is shown praying. With hands clasped and head bowed, she asks God to bless the seven little men who have been so nice to her. It’s a brief but emotional display of faith that you won’t find in modern movies.
"The Jungle Book"
A small spoiler for this early Disney film: the last act of “The Jungle Book” ends with a battle between Baloo and Shere Kan. During the fight, Baloo is “killed” while protecting Mowgli, which spurs the boy into fighting back with his newly developed fire. Afterward, the gathered animals take a moment to mourn Baloo, and Bagheera does something out of the ordinary. He tells Mowgli, “Greater love hath no one than he who lays down his life for a friend.” What viewers might not realize is that Bagheera is quoting a verse from John 15:13. In the end, Baloo is only unconscious, and the emotional scene is quickly replaced with laughter. However, this doesn’t negate the power of words or the one who inspired them.
"The Sword in the Stone"
“The Sword in the Stone” typically gets overlooked by any casual Disney viewer. The movie features a handful of random stories loosely stringed together by a few characters, so it’s understandable if the movie never makes anyone’s Top 10 list. However, there’s a moment toward the end that all Christians should appreciate. In the film’s opening monologue, it’s established that the mythical “sword in the stone” was considered a miracle to the English people, but it wound up forgotten because no one could free it. A couple of years later, a desperate young Arthur is shown running through the street searching for a sword for his foster brother. It’s only then that we see where the sword has been resting: in a churchyard. The English people acknowledged where true authority lies, and when the sword is pulled from the sword, spectators name it “A miracle ordained by heaven.”
"The Lion King"
“The Lion King” is often called “Hamlet with animals,” but one could make an argument for “The Prodigal Son” as well. Like the youngest son in Jesus’ parable, Simba lives a privileged life while ignoring all responsibility. The only thing he cares about is that one day, no one will be able to tell him what to do. So, after a series of events that take him away from home, Simba decides to embrace a foolish lifestyle or Hakuna Matata. While the prodigal son ultimately finds himself eating pig’s feed, Simba dines on grubs until he realizes he must return home and face the consequences of his actions. The reunion with Mufasa differs from what’s written in Luke 15, but it still captures the emotion of a father waiting for his wayward son to come home.
"Cinderella"
When it comes to female heroines, Cinderella is typically found somewhere near the bottom of the list. For years, she’s been called a pushover or someone who lets herself be bossed around and never does anything to help herself, so why should she get a happy ending? Shouldn’t happy endings go to people who deserve them? That’s not what Jesus said. In essence, the Bible is a story of God’s grace, and the point of grace is that it’s undeserved. In fact, Jesus tells several stories to show how His grace didn’t depend on good works. Like Cinderella, humanity didn’t deserve the blessing they received. We may sneer when the fairy godmother makes Cinderella beautiful, but the truth is Jesus does the same thing for us.
"Robin Hood"
“Robin Hood” might be the hero of many legends, but he wouldn’t get very far without Friar Tuck. The same is true for the animated Disney movie as well. The humble friar always serves as a model of justice, truth, and encouragement throughout the story. He’s the one who reunites Maid Marian and Robin Hood by inspiring them to overcome their differences. When the mean sheriff tries to extort the citizens of Nottingham for his gain, the good friar doesn’t allow it. Friar Tuck serves as an example all Christians should follow. Ultimately, it’s the threat of losing him that inspires Robin and his allies to take back their home. It goes to show that a true disciple of Jesus can impact well beyond their life. We can even change the course of a kingdom.
"The Hunchback of Notre Dame"
The Christian message in “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” is no secret, as Christian imagery is everywhere in this movie. The film opens with the main villain attempting to kill the protagonist when he was a baby, only to be stopped by a deacon who invokes the power of the Holy Spirit. Later on, the movie’s heroine sings a song where she talks to God and reminds viewers what prayer looks like. Even the villain fights with faith, wrongly believing that his holiness makes him better than everyone else. When it comes to Disney films, you won’t find one that involves God more than “The Hunchback of Notre Dame.”
Disney movies are known for having uplifting messages, but who knew so many of them involved a Christian perspective? So, the next time you need some inspiration, don’t be afraid to watch a Disney movie and soak in the message.
