15 Best Disney Sci-Fi Movies, Ranked

Disney has long been a dominant force in the entertainment industry, crafting films that captivate audiences of all ages. Among its diverse portfolio, the studio’s sci-fi movies stand out for their imaginative storytelling, stunning visual effects, and memorable characters. The best Disney sci-fi movies achieved critical acclaim, box office success, and cultural impact. These films not only entertain but also push the boundaries of imagination, exploring futuristic worlds, advanced technologies, and profound themes that resonate with viewers.

Narrative complexity, innovation in visual effects, and audience reception are all crucial to claim a movie is the “best” of anything. Movies that have garnered widespread praise and left a lasting impression on popular culture are more commonly considered the creme of the crop. From heartwarming tales that delve into the essence of humanity to epic adventures across the cosmos, these films exemplify the best of Disney’s sci-fi repertoire.

15

‘The Black Hole’ (1979)

Directed by Gary Nelson

The Black Hole was Disney’s bold foray into the darker realms of science fiction, released at a time when space exploration films were gaining popularity. This film, featuring a star-studded cast including Maximilian Schell and Anthony Perkins, centers on a spaceship crew that encounters a mysterious black hole. It is notable for its pioneering special effects and an ambitious storyline that combines space adventure with philosophical questions about the nature of the universe.

Despite mixed reviews at the time of release, The Black Hole has gained a cult following over the years. Its eerie atmosphere, coupled with groundbreaking visual effects, made it a precursor to many of the darker, introspective sci-fi films that followed. The Black Hole‘s influence can be seen in its exploration of artificial intelligence and the ethical dilemmas associated with it, themes that are highly relevant in today’s technological landscape.

14

‘Tron’ (1982)

Directed by Steven Lisberger

Tron was a revolutionary film that brought the concept of virtual reality to the big screen long before it became a household term. Directed by Steven Lisberger, this movie starred Jeff Bridges as a computer programmer who gets sucked into a digital world where he must compete in gladiatorial games to survive. The film’s use of early CGI was groundbreaking, pushing the boundaries of what was possible in cinema at the time.

Though it received a mixed critical reception upon release, Tron has since been recognized as a cult classic, particularly among tech enthusiasts. Its influence extends beyond cinema into video games and digital art, making it a significant cultural artifact. Tron‘s innovative visual style and forward-thinking concept laid the groundwork for future films exploring virtual environments and the integration of humans and technology.

13

‘Big Hero 6’ (2014)

Directed by Don Hall and Chris Williams

Big Hero 6 merges superhero action with heartfelt storytelling, set in the futuristic city of San Fransokyo. The film follows a young robotics prodigy, Hiro Hamada, and his inflatable healthcare companion, Baymax, as they form a superhero team to solve the mystery behind a devastating event. This movie stands out for its blend of humor, emotional depth, and cutting-edge animation, which earned it the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.

The film’s exploration of grief, friendship, and innovation resonates deeply with audiences of all ages. Baymax, in particular, became an iconic character, symbolizing compassion and care in a high-tech world. Big Hero 6 not only showcases Disney’s ability to create compelling animated features but also highlights the potential for technology to be a force for good, making it a sweet yet action-packed standout entry in the sci-fi genre.

12

‘The Rocketeer’ (1991)

Directed by Joe Johnston

Set in the late 1930s, The Rocketeer is a nostalgic adventure that combines the charm of old Hollywood with the excitement of a superhero origin story. Directed by Joe Johnston, the film follows stunt pilot Cliff Secord, who discovers a jetpack that allows him to soar through the skies. The movie captures the spirit of the golden age of aviation and the allure of pulp fiction, offering a thrilling and heartwarming experience.

While not a massive box office success, The Rocketeer has garnered a loyal following and is praised for its stylized visuals, charming performances, and adventurous spirit. Its retro aesthetic and homage to classic serials make it a unique entry in Disney’s catalog. Moreover, The Rocketeer‘s themes of heroism and innovation, coupled with its nostalgic appeal, ensure its lasting legacy as a beloved sci-fi adventure.

11

‘Tomorrowland’ (2015)

Directed by Brad Bird

Tomorrowland is a futuristic adventure that imagines a world where science and creativity reign supreme. Directed by Brad Bird and starring Oscar winner George Clooney, the film follows a young girl and a former boy-genius inventor as they embark on a mission to uncover the secrets of Tomorrowland, a place caught between time and space. The movie celebrates innovation, optimism, and the potential of human ingenuity to shape a better future.

Despite mixed reviews, Tomorrowland stands out for its ambitious vision and unique premise. The film’s stunning visuals and thought-provoking themes encourage viewers to dream big and consider the impact of their actions on the future. Its message of hope and the power of imagination aligns with Walt Disney’s ideals, making it a fitting tribute to the spirit of exploration and discovery.

10

‘Atlantis: The Lost Empire’ (2001)

Directed by Gary Trousdale and Kirk Wise

Back at the turn of the century, Atlantis: The Lost Empire bombed. Hard. To this day, it still has a rotten score from both critics and audiences on Rotten Tomatoes. However, as time has gone on, and the benefit of distance has allowed viewers to re-evaluate this sci-fi adventure about a young linguist joining a group of explorers to find the mysterious lost continent of Atlantis, it has become a de facto modern classic.

The characters are delightfully fun, Milo Thatch in particular being one of the coolest movie adventurers; the balance between old-school sci-fi story and butt-kicking action is superb; and the animation is some of the most stunning of any 2D-animated Disney film. Yes, Atlantis has a few plot problems and some forgettable characters here and there, but its problems are easy to overlook when everything else is so entertaining. — Diego Pineda Pacheco

9

‘WALL-E’ (2008)

Directed by Andrew Stanton

WALL-E is a Pixar masterpiece that tells the story of a lonely waste-collecting robot left to clean up an abandoned Earth. Directed by Andrew Stanton, the film is notable for its minimal dialogue, relying heavily on visual storytelling and expressive animation to convey emotion and narrative. WALL-E explores themes of consumerism, environmental degradation, and the power of love, making it both a poignant and thought-provoking film.

The movie’s stunning animation and heartfelt story earned widespread acclaim, including the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. WALL-E is often lauded for its bold artistic choices and the way it tackles serious issues within a family-friendly format. Its endearing characters and imaginative vision of the future make it a standout in Disney’s sci-fi repertoire, resonating with audiences long after the credits roll.

8

‘Lilo & Stitch’ (2002)

Directed by Chris Sanders and Dean DeBlois

Lilo & Stitch combines sci-fi elements with heartfelt storytelling in a tale about an unconventional family. Directed by Chris Sanders and Dean DeBlois, the film follows a young Hawaiian girl, Lilo, and her alien pet, Stitch, who is a genetic experiment gone awry. This delightful sci-fi comedy is celebrated for its unique animation style, endearing characters, and themes of family and acceptance.

The film’s success lies in its ability to blend humor, emotion, and sci-fi adventure seamlessly. Stitch, with his mischievous yet lovable personality, became an instant icon. Lilo & Stitch also highlights the importance of empathy and understanding, showing that even the most unlikely individuals can form a family. Its sweet blend of cultural elements and universal themes ensures its place as a beloved and enduring Disney sci-fi classic.

7

‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ (2014)

Directed by James Gunn

Guardians of the Galaxy brought a fresh and irreverent tone to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, blending sci-fi adventure with humor and heart. Directed by James Gunn, the film follows a group of misfits, including Peter Quill, Gamora, Drax, Rocket, and Groot, as they band together to save the galaxy from a formidable threat. Its vibrant visuals, quirky characters, and eclectic soundtrack set it apart from other superhero movies.

The movie launched a successful trilogy, maintaining the same engaging storyline, memorable performances, and a unique blend of comedy and action. Guardians of the Galaxy revitalized interest in space operas and demonstrated Disney’s ability to balance lighthearted fun with epic storytelling. The film’s themes of friendship, redemption, and the importance of found family resonate deeply, making it a standout in both the MCU and Disney’s sci-fi offerings.

6

‘Incredibles 2’ (2018)

Directed by Brad Bird

Incredibles 2 continues the story of the Parr family, a group of superheroes navigating the challenges of family life and saving the world. Directed by Brad Bird, the film picks up right where the first movie left off, with Elastigirl taking center stage to combat a new villain while Mr. Incredible manages domestic duties. The movie combines thrilling action sequences with heartfelt family dynamics and sharp social commentary.

The film’s success lies in its ability to balance humor, action, and emotional depth, appealing to both children and adults. Its exploration of gender roles, family responsibilities, and the public perception of superheroes adds layers to its engaging narrative. Incredibles 2 showcases Pixar’s talent for creating rich, multifaceted stories that entertain and provoke thought, cementing its place as a top-tier Disney sci-fi film.

5

‘Treasure Planet’ (2002)

Directed by Ron Clements and John Musker

Another 21st-century Disney flop that became a huge cult classic, Treasure Planet is a steampunk swashbuckler about a teenager who finds the map to a great treasure hidden by a space pirate. Together with some friends, he sets off on his quest. One of the House of Mouse’s most dashingly animated and adventurously creative films, many would call it a true misunderstood masterpiece.

Unfortunately, as suggested, Treasure Planet was a financial failure upon release, but that’s precisely a big factor that contributed to its becoming the cult classic it is today. The characters and their dynamics are surprisingly complex and compelling, the world-building is fantastic, and the lighting-fast pace makes the whole adventure all the more entertaining. Some plot points may not make the most sense, but like many of Disney’s most underrated films, Treasure Planet has strengths that largely outweigh its weaknesses. — Diego Pineda Pacheco

4

‘Avengers: Infinity War’ (2018)

Directed by Anthony Russo and Joe Russo

Of the many great movies that the Marvel Cinematic Universe has put out, perhaps none have been as exceptional as Avengers: Infinity War. It’s one of the biggest cinematic events the world has ever seen, following the Avengers and their allies as they put everything on the line in an attempt to stop the powerful Thanos before his blitz of devastation puts an end to half of all life in the universe.

Even putting aside the tremendous excitement of seeing a decade’s worth of movies come together in a gargantuan crossover like this one, Infinity War is a really, really good film in its own right. It gives all its characters a solid chance to shine, it has a terrifying villain (who, in a way, is also the protagonist), and it has one of the bleakest endings in blockbuster history. — Diego Pineda Pacheco

3

‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ (2015)

Directed by J.J. Abrams

Star Wars: The Force Awakens reignited the beloved Star Wars saga, introducing new characters while honoring the legacy of the original trilogy. Directed by J.J. Abrams, the film follows Rey, Finn, and Poe Dameron as they join forces with the Resistance to fight the sinister First Order. The movie combines thrilling action, stunning visuals, and nostalgic elements, capturing the magic of the original films while paving the way for a new generation.

The film’s massive box office success and positive reception underscore its impact on the franchise and popular culture. Star Wars: The Force Awakens balances fan service with fresh storytelling, making it a pivotal entry in the ever-expanding Star Wars universe. Its exploration of themes such as identity, legacy, and the struggle between good and evil resonate deeply with audiences, securing its position as one of the best Disney sci-fi movies.

2

‘Rogue One: A Star Wars Story’ (2016)

Directed by Gareth Edwards

Sure, The Force Awakens is great, but Rogue One: A Star Wars Story — along with its prequel and companion piece, the extraordinary Andor — is the best thing that the House of Mouse has done for George Lucas‘s creation. It’s a prequel set a short time before the events of A New Hope, where a group of unlikely heroes band together on a mission to steal the Death Star plans and secure the galaxy’s freedom.

It’s by far one of the most thrilling Star Wars movies ever, with a ton of heart-racing set pieces and some of the best characters from the Disney era. It also perfectly captures and expands on the heart of the political critique of the original trilogy, showing the Empire at its most tyrannical and the Rebellion at its most relatable. It’s nuanced, it’s fun, it’s really well-directed, and it’s the kind of movie that Star Wars fans are clamoring to see more of. — Diego Pineda Pacheco

1

‘The Incredibles’ (2004)

Directed by Brad Bird

The best Disney sci-fi movie also happens to be one of the best action movies of the past quarter-century. It is, of course, The Incredibles. It follows the Parrs, a superpowered family trying to lead a quiet suburban life, until they’re forced into action to save the world. The movie works perfectly as a thrilling family movie, but is even better as a surprisingly mature and complex spy thriller and domestic drama.

The ideas that The Incredibles develops were the ones that brought superheroes to the 21st century, rooted in the U.S.’s post-9/11 anxieties. According to the film, superheroes are found right at home in people willing to embrace their individuality. It’s a richly layered, deceivingly adult-oriented movie, but its action-packed narrative, great sense of humor, and vivid characters make it the perfect choice for family movie night, too. At least as far as science fiction goes, Disney has never been better. — Diego Pineda Pacheco

NEXT: The Best Hand-Drawn Animated Disney Movies, Ranked