Disney princess movies have enchanted audiences for generations, weaving tales of courage, love, and self-discovery. But beyond their captivating stories and memorable songs lies a remarkable financial success that has made them some of the highest-grossing films in history.
Let’s take a closer look at the top contenders in this magical realm. At the forefront is 'Frozen,' released in 2013. This film not only captured hearts with its powerful anthem "Let It Go" but also grossed over $1.28 billion worldwide, making it an unprecedented hit for Disney. The story of sisters Anna and Elsa resonated deeply with viewers, showcasing themes of familial love that transcended traditional fairy tale narratives.
Following closely behind is 'Frozen II,' which continued to explore the enchanting world introduced in its predecessor. Released in 2019, it earned approximately $1.45 billion globally—proving that audiences were still captivated by these beloved characters and their journey.
Another standout is 'The Lion King' (1994), often considered part of the broader Disney canon despite not featuring a traditional princess as its lead character; however, Nala's role cannot be overlooked when discussing female leads within this universe. With nearly $1.65 billion in box office receipts after various re-releases and adaptations—including the recent live-action version—it remains one of Disney's most iconic offerings.
Then there’s 'Beauty and the Beast' (1991), which was groundbreaking as Disney's first animated feature to be nominated for Best Picture at the Oscars—a testament to its quality storytelling alongside impressive box office returns exceeding $1.26 billion across all releases.
More recently, we can’t forget about ‘Moana’ (2016). While it may not have reached quite as high on total earnings—with around $643 million globally—it left an indelible mark through cultural representation and empowering messages about identity and bravery.
These films are more than just numbers; they represent milestones in animation history while fostering connections among diverse audiences worldwide—reminding us why we fell in love with these timeless tales long ago.
