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Due to Disney’s renowned legacy in animated films, Disney+ has often been perceived as a streaming service primarily for kids and families. However, this perception is evolving as the platform offers a diverse collection of over 500 movies, extending beyond childhood classics and catering to adult audiences. Setting aside the popular Star Wars and Marvel franchises, Disney+ boasts a range of options tailored for grown-ups.
While Disney+ is celebrated for its enchanting animated content, it has also ventured into producing non-animated titles that address mature themes such as drama, loss, and violence. The streaming service has expanded its viewer base by creating compelling dark series that are not suitable for children. Adults no longer need to question whether there’s content for them on Disney+, as the platform continues to diversify its offerings.
In addition to cute animations and high production quality, Disney+ has added several movies exclusively designed for adults. This list, updated as of October 24th, 2023, highlights some of the top Disney+ movies for adults. The platform is actively curating content that explores complex subjects, making it a worthwhile destination for adult viewers seeking engaging and thought-provoking films.
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25 Best Movies on Disney+ for Adults to Watch Right Now
10 Things I Hate About You (1999)
“10 Things I Hate About You,” a quintessential ’90s time capsule, stands out with its stellar cast and a contemporary twist on William Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew. The story revolves around a father’s decree that his younger daughter can only date once her older, less sociable sister starts dating. Enter a mysterious bad boy who might just be the one to bring the elder sister out of her shell.
What sets the film apart is its clever adaptation of Shakespeare’s work into a high school setting, a concept previously explored in the successful 1996 film, Romeo + Juliet. The enduring impact of both films can be attributed to the brilliant casting choices. The abundance of ’90s favorites in the cast is impressive, with Heath Ledger and Julia Stiles particularly shining and dominating the film.
Adventures in Babysitting (1987)
Chris Columbus, a protégé of Steven Spielberg, marked his directorial debut with Adventures in Babysitting, a delightful and understated comedy featuring an excellent lead performance by Elisabeth Shue. The story follows 17-year-old Chris Parker, who, after being dumped by her boyfriend on their anniversary, finds herself tasked with babysitting a lively group of kids for the night.
What Sets It Apart: Adventures in Babysitting possesses broad appeal, although it may be slightly beyond the grasp of younger audiences. The film’s humor, centered around a teenager grappling with increased responsibilities, might not fully resonate with them. Additionally, there are a few mature jokes that are best avoided for a younger audience.
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)
Even when considering Avengers: Infinity War, some argue that Black Panther: Wakanda Forever stands out as the most emotionally resonant film in the MCU. The narrative continues after the death of King T’Challa, and his sister takes on the responsibility of carrying his legacy forward. The storyline becomes imperative as the vengeful king Namor emerges.
What sets it apart is the incredibly intense opening, making it one of the most gripping moments in the MCU. The heart of Wakanda Forever revolves around the grieving process, a theme that naturally arose due to the untimely passing of Chadwick Boseman. Despite the tragedy, the film is a poignant and often entertaining exploration of the expanding Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Dan in Real Life (2007)
“Dan in Real Life,” a Steve Carell film, is a charming and underrated gem that tells the story of a widowed middle-aged father of three. With a family advice column, Dan takes his kids to his family home, leading to an unexpected romance with his brother’s new girlfriend, a bookstore owner.
What sets the film apart is Carell’s exceptional performance. Whether handling comedic or dramatic material, Carell showcases his versatility as an actor. While he often takes on similar roles, “Dan in Real Life” stands out as one of his most authentic and true-to-life performances, offering a refreshing reminder of his capabilities.
Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny (2023)
Fifteen years after the disappointing reception of “Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull,” James Mangold took the helm from Steven Spielberg for the final installment, “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny,” offering a vastly improved conclusion. In this chapter, Indiana Jones faces off against Nazis once again, but this time they’ve transitioned from wartime adversaries to NASA employees. A notable difference is the addition of Indy’s goddaughter, Helena Shaw, played by the always impressive Phoebe Waller-Bridge.
The film’s greatness is underscored by Harrison Ford’s enduring performance. While he has excelled in numerous roles, there’s a distinct connection between Ford and the character of Indy. At 81 years old, Ford still convincingly portrays the iconic action hero, a testament to both his acting prowess and Mangold’s direction. The film’s strength lies in its subtle moments, such as a dialogue-light scene between Indy and Marion Ravenwood, which adds depth to “Dial of Destiny.”
Deadpool (2016)
Deadpool stands out as one of the rare superhero movies geared towards an adult audience, and it’s currently available on Disney+. Ryan Reynolds takes on the role of the irreverent mercenary in this film, which serves as an origin story. Deadpool gains near-immortality, a scarred appearance, and a dark sense of humor after a military experiment, driving him to seek revenge on those responsible.
What Sets It Apart: Ryan Reynolds was deeply invested in this project, dating back to its development in 2004. After a disappointing portrayal in X-Men Origins: Wolverine, Deadpool was given a fresh start, maintaining its crude humor and mature content. The film’s unabashed violence and mature themes cater to an older audience. With Disney’s acquisition of Fox, fans can anticipate Deadpool’s integration into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, with the character making his debut in Deadpool 3 alongside Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine.
Isle of Dogs (2018)
Isle of Dogs, another stop-motion creation by Wes Anderson, may share the same animation technique as his previous films, but it is not specifically designed for children; rather, it caters more to an adult audience. The story unfolds in an alternate Japan where Megasaki City banishes its dog population to “Trash Island” due to fears of canine influenza. The narrative follows Atari, the nephew of Megasaki’s mayor, as he embarks on a journey to rescue his lost pet amidst growing rumors of misconduct back home.
The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Bryan Cranston, Edward Norton, Jeff Goldblum, Greta Gerwig, Scarlett Johansson, Bill Murray, and more. Despite its eccentric premise, Isle of Dogs maintains a subdued sense of humor and tone. Wes Anderson’s distinctive style permeates the film, adding an extra layer of creativity through the unique medium of animation.
Free Guy (2021)
In this modern comedy, hailed as another Ryan Reynolds masterpiece, the film seamlessly combines adult humor with remarkable CGI action. Drawing parallels to the contemporary equivalent of “The Truman Show,” “Free Guy” unfolds predominantly within the confines of an open-world video game. Thousands of players immerse themselves in the virtual realm daily to indulge in unrestrained violence. However, the smooth operation of the game takes an unexpected turn when an NPC named Guy gains self-awareness and begins making independent choices.
The film boasts Ryan Reynolds in the lead role as the awakened NPC, with Taika Waititi portraying the antagonistic CEO who controls the virtual world. Directed by Shawn Levy, a close collaborator with Reynolds known for his work on “Stranger Things,” the movie promises an entertaining journey through a modern fantasy landscape. Levy’s involvement in “Free Guy” and his upcoming collaboration with Reynolds on “Deadpool 3” further underscores their successful partnership.
Logan (2017)
Logan, the culmination of the Wolverine trilogy that commenced with X-Men Origins: Wolverine, expertly weaves a compelling narrative around the beloved adamantium-enhanced mutant. In this poignant farewell, James “Logan” Howlett, grappling with a diminishing healing factor, cares for an aging Professor X. The arrival of a new mutant disrupts Logan’s world, sparking a tumultuous cascade of violence.
Directed by James Mangold, who also helmed the preceding film in the trilogy, The Wolverine, this gripping conclusion is both intensely violent and emotionally poignant. It delves into profound themes such as aging and mortality, offering a bittersweet conclusion that resonates with adult audiences. Despite the serious subject matter, Logan doesn’t shy away from delivering the action-packed spectacle fans expect, showcasing Hugh Jackman’s iconic claws. Widely hailed as one of the standout comic book movies of the 2010s, Logan stands out as one of the best Marvel films to date.
Deadpool 2 (2018)
Deadpool 2, the second installment of Ryan Reynolds’ superhero passion project, proudly embraces its full R-rating, catering to adult and experienced comic book readers who appreciate non-traditional plotlines. The movie delivers everything fans desire and more.
What sets it apart is its self-referential nature, maintaining a compelling emotional plot alongside its extreme meta elements. The narrative centers around the antihero Cable and his time-travel device, which might inadvertently become part of Phase 5 in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Interestingly, Deadpool 2 hit theaters a year before Disney acquired Fox and incorporated the X-Men properties into the MCU, placing it in a somewhat ambiguous position in MCU canon. Fans eagerly anticipate Deadpool 3 to discover how Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman will fit into Marvel’s vast multiverse.
Miracle (2004)
Miracle, released in 2004, stands out as one of the finest sports movies ever produced, a sentiment widely shared by many. Centered around the true events of the 1980 Winter Olympics, the film stars Kurt Russell as Herb Brooks, the coach of the U.S. men’s hockey team. Tasked with leading a team of underdogs against the formidable Soviet Union, Brooks successfully orchestrates the iconic “Miracle on Ice.”
The film’s greatness is attributed to its resonance with adults, fueled by its historical backdrop. Beyond a conventional success story, Miracle distinguishes itself through compelling performances and exceptional craftsmanship. It emerges as a profoundly inspirational and unapologetically patriotic cinematic gem from the mid-2000s.
Howard (2018)
If you’ve been raised on timeless Disney classics like Aladdin and The Little Mermaid, you might be interested in the captivating backstory of how these enchanting tales made their way to the silver screen. The Disney+ documentary “Howard,” released in 2018, chronicles the life of Howard Ashman, a renowned lyricist who played a pivotal role in the Disney Renaissance. Following his success with the comedic musical Little Shop of Horrors, Ashman’s award-winning contributions to The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, and Beauty and the Beast solidified his legacy, despite his untimely death in 1991.
What sets this documentary apart is its comprehensive exploration of Ashman’s impact, delving not only into his musical genius but also his influential role behind the scenes during the Disney Renaissance and his endeavors beyond it. Directed by Don Hahn, the film skillfully weaves together archival footage and interviews, echoing the style of Hahn’s 2009 documentary, Waking Sleeping Beauty. It serves as an indispensable piece of Disney history, offering fans an essential glimpse into the magic that unfolded behind the scenes.
Who Framed Roger Rabbit? (1988)
Who Framed Roger Rabbit?, a beloved childhood film for many, holds enduring appeal for adults due to its homage to classic animation and groundbreaking fusion of live-action and animation. The film, blending seamlessly between the real world and the animated realm, features Bob Hoskins as detective Eddie Valiant. Tasked with exonerating the animated character Roger Rabbit from a murder charge, Valiant must overcome his biases against Toons. As time passes, the movie’s relevance for adults grows, thanks to its nostalgic references to older properties and its playful take on the noir genre. More than two decades after its release, Who Framed Roger Rabbit? remains thoroughly entertaining.
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Avatar: The Way of Water (2022)
After a wait of over thirteen years, the highly anticipated sequel to Avatar, titled “Avatar: The Way of Water,” has finally arrived, and it lives up to expectations. Sam Worthington reprises his role as Jake Sully, now leading a peaceful life among the Na’vi. However, the return of the RDA to Pandora puts this tranquility at risk, forcing Jake to fight once again.
What sets “The Way of Water” apart is its ability to provide Jake with new motivations and deeper emotional stakes. The extended gap between the two Avatar films allows viewers who have grown since the original to connect more personally with the conflicts presented in the sequel.
Remember the Titans (2000)
In suburban Virginia, the merging of a predominantly white and a predominantly Black high school gives rise to T.C. Williams High School. The true integration of the schools becomes evident on the football field, where the coach from the Black school is appointed as the head coach, despite having less experience than coaches from the white school.
Highlighted Qualities: The strength of the film lies in the team’s journey as they unite and rely on each other, ultimately forming one of the town’s most exceptional teams. “Remember the Titans” effectively translates the real-life story of the Titans to the big screen, boasting a strong ensemble cast including Denzel Washington, Donald Faison, and Kate Bosworth. Notably, the movie features a young Ryan Gosling in a supporting role.
The Rookie (2002)
The Rookie tells the true story of Jim Morris, a high school baseball coach who, at the age of 35, becomes the oldest rookie in Major League Baseball. Faced with a losing team, Morris makes a bet with his players to win the district championship, which they ultimately achieve. The film, featuring a stellar cast including Dennis Quaid, Rachel Griffiths, Jay Hernandez, and Brian Cox, elevates beyond a typical sports drama. Through its exploration of themes like family and ambition, The Rookie transcends, making it an inspirational movie suitable for adults.
Hidden Figures (2016)
Hidden Figures is a biographical drama adapted from the eponymous non-fiction book, highlighting the crucial contributions of three Black women mathematicians to NASA during the Space Race. These remarkable individuals played pivotal roles in the success of the early U.S. space program. The film, widely regarded as one of Disney’s best, sheds light on a previously overlooked story.
What sets Hidden Figures apart is its compelling narrative, which remained largely unrecognized for many years. The stellar performances of the cast, particularly Octavia Spencer, contributed to the film’s acclaim. Garnering three Oscar nominations, including Best Picture and Best Adapted Screenplay, the movie finally brought the spotlight to a tale that had been overlooked for too long. Now available on Disney+, Hidden Figures continues to be celebrated for its portrayal of these unsung heroes.
Retrograde (2022)
“Retrograde” is a gripping documentary that chronicles the concluding 9 months of the American occupation in Afghanistan, marking the end of a two-decade-long conflict. The narrative unfolds through the eyes of Afghan General Sami Sadat, a young leader collaborating with U.S. special forces to protect civilians against the advancing Taliban. As the odds stack against them, General Sadat strives to aid those seeking refuge from an impending Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.
What sets this documentary apart is its ability to humanize a familiar story, bridging the gap between headlines and the harsh reality on the ground. Often, we encounter news of violence and despair only to quickly overlook them. “Retrograde” breaks through this indifference by giving a face to the suffering in Afghanistan, offering a poignant portrayal of the final chapter in America’s involvement in this war-torn nation.
Flamin’ Hot (2023)
The captivating tale behind Flamin’ Hot Cheetos unfolds through the life of their creator, Richard Montañez, portraying a remarkable rags-to-riches journey as the son of a Mexican immigrant. Montañez, who had hustled throughout his life, was employed as a janitor at the Frito-Lay plant in Rancho Cucamonga when he conceived the idea of chili-covered Cheetos. Despite facing opposition from corporate executives, his concept proved to be a massive success, making for an inspiring narrative, albeit one subject to some debate regarding its authenticity.
What sets this biopic apart is its engaging narrative, led by Eva Longoria in her directorial debut, featuring notable actors like Tony Shalhoub, Matt Walsh, and Dennis Haysbert. The film, deemed suitable for family audiences, particularly resonates with parents, providing an enjoyable cinematic experience. Notably, it even received a screening at the White House.
The Simpsons Movie (2007)
Homer faces a string of misfortunes in The Simpsons Movie, a spinoff from the enduring animated series. The storyline unfolds as Homer impulsively adopts a pig that rapidly wreaks havoc on the town. This prompts the antagonist, Russ Cargill, to pressure President Arnold Schwarzenegger to seal off Springfield with a dome. Determined to protect his family and hometown, Homer takes on the challenge of thwarting Russ. What sets the movie apart is its ability to cater to diverse audiences, offering a range of humor from crude jokes to subtle political satire. Additionally, the film introduces higher stakes than the original series, allowing each member of the Simpson family to undergo tangible growth in this extended adventure.
Tron (1982)
Tron, a seminal Sci-Fi film, continues to enjoy a dedicated cult following, and Disney is actively working on the third installment, Tron: Ares, with a yet-to-be-determined release date. The film features a promising cast, including Greta Lee and Jared Leto, adding to the anticipation.
The greatness of Tron lies in its narrative, fulfilling the gaming fantasies of ’80s enthusiasts and resonating with contemporary gamers. The protagonist, Kevin Flynn (portrayed by Jeff Bridges), a software programmer, gets pulled into a computer after hacking a sentient system. In this digital realm, programs take on human-like forms, and Flynn must navigate and defend himself against malicious programs. His survival depends on the assistance of Tron, an altruistic security program. The storyline is captivating and provides an ideal escapade, making it a timeless and enjoyable experience, whether it’s your first or tenth viewing.
Avatar (2009)
Avatar stands out as an exemplary blockbuster, showcasing director James Cameron’s mastery of special effects in crafting the visually stunning world of Pandora. The film follows Jake, a former marine tasked with continuing his deceased brother’s mission on the planet. As he inhabits his avatar, an alien body linked to his consciousness, Jake discovers the nefarious intentions of the human corporation, Resources Development Administration, which aims to exploit the Na’vi people and their resources. Whether drawn to the poignant narrative of colonization or simply captivated by the breathtaking visuals, Avatar offers a cinematic experience that excels in both spectacle and storytelling.
The Finest Hours (2016)
“The Finest Hours” recounts a gripping true story of survival during a historical drama set in 1952 on Cape Cod’s coast. When the SS Pendleton is lost at sea during a blizzard, the US Coast Guard undertakes a daring rescue mission in extremely challenging conditions. Director Craig Gillespie, known for later acclaimed films like “I, Tonya” and Disney’s “Cruella,” showcases his early talent in this intense narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The tumultuous ocean adds a frightening element, making the film a compelling and riveting experience.
Free Solo (2018)
Free Solo, the winner of the Best Documentary Feature at the 91st Academy Awards, is a compelling must-watch on Disney+. The film follows rock climber Alex Honnold as he meticulously plans to ascend El Capitan in Yosemite National Park without any safety equipment, showcasing his fearless climbing style. Notably available on Disney+, the documentary is part of the impressive National Geographic projects offered on the platform. While the intense and heart-stopping nature of the climb may be daunting for some, Free Solo proves to be a captivating experience, even for those who typically shy away from documentaries. The unparalleled physical achievements and gripping tension make it a remarkable and inspirational story, encouraging viewers to pursue their passions.
Hamilton (2020)
The acclaimed Broadway production “Hamilton,” crafted by Lin-Manuel Miranda, narrates the life of Alexander Hamilton through a fusion of hip-hop, R&B, pop, soul music, and traditional show tunes. The musical deviates creatively from historical accuracy by featuring non-white actors in the roles of Founding Fathers and other historical figures, with Miranda himself portraying Alexander Hamilton. The show stands out for its exceptional music and narrative, skillfully reinterpreting Hamilton’s achievements within a contemporary framework. Its ability to modernize the Founding Father’s story makes it an engaging and educational experience for adults, seamlessly blending entertainment with historical insight.
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