Disney+ is a treasure trove of beloved classics, blockbuster franchises, and new originals, but beyond the well-known hits, there are countless hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a die-hard Disney fan or just looking for something fresh to stream, these underrated shows and movies deserve a spot on your watchlist. From forgotten animated gems to under-the-radar documentaries, here are the best hidden gems on Disney+ you need to stream right now.
Underrated Animated Classics You Might Have Missed
While everyone knows The Lion King and Frozen, Disney’s animation library is filled with lesser-known masterpieces that deserve more love. Here are a few you should check out:
- The Great Mouse Detective (1986) – A charming Sherlock Holmes-inspired mystery starring a tiny detective mouse. It’s witty, suspenseful, and full of old-school Disney magic.
- Atlantis: The Lost Empire (2001) – A visually stunning adventure with a steampunk twist, often overlooked in favor of Disney’s musical hits.
- Treasure Planet (2002) – A sci-fi reimagining of Treasure Island with breathtaking animation and a heartfelt story about father figures and self-discovery.
These films may not have gotten the spotlight they deserved upon release, but they’re perfect for fans of rich storytelling and unique animation styles.
Forgotten Live-Action Disney Films Worth Watching
Disney’s live-action catalog includes more than just remakes—here are some original gems that have slipped under the radar:
- The Black Hole (1979) – A dark, atmospheric sci-fi film that blends horror and adventure, decades ahead of its time.
- Newsies (1992) – A cult classic musical about newspaper boys fighting for workers’ rights, featuring a young Christian Bale.
- Tron (1982) – The groundbreaking cyberpunk adventure that paved the way for modern CGI, still holding up as a visually inventive classic.
These films showcase Disney’s willingness to experiment beyond fairy tales, offering something for every kind of movie lover.
Overlooked Disney+ Originals You Shouldn’t Skip
While The Mandalorian and WandaVision dominate the conversation, Disney+ has quietly released some fantastic original content that deserves attention:
- Earth to Ned (2020) – A hilarious mockumentary-style show about an alien who becomes obsessed with Earth’s pop culture.
- Prop Culture (2020) – A fascinating docuseries that tracks down original props from classic Disney films, offering nostalgia and behind-the-scenes insights.
- Howard (2018) – A touching documentary about Howard Ashman, the lyricist behind The Little Mermaid and Beauty and the Beast, whose genius shaped Disney’s Renaissance era.
These originals prove that Disney+ isn’t just about big franchises—it’s also a platform for unique, creative storytelling.
Hidden Gems from Disney’s Documentary Collection
Disney+ isn’t just for fiction—its documentary lineup includes some incredible true stories that often go unnoticed:
- Elephant (2020) – A breathtaking nature documentary narrated by Meghan Markle, following a herd of elephants on an epic migration.
- Into the Canyon (2019) – A visually stunning exploration of the Grand Canyon, blending adventure with environmental awareness.
- Marvel’s 616 (2020) – A deep dive into the lesser-known corners of the Marvel Universe, perfect for comic book enthusiasts.
These documentaries offer a mix of education, inspiration, and awe-inspiring visuals, making them perfect for family viewing or solo binge-watching.
International Disney Gems You Might Not Know About
Disney+ has a wealth of international content that often gets overlooked by U.S. audiences. Here are a few standout titles:
- 20 Once Again (2015) – A Chinese fantasy-comedy about a 70-year-old woman who magically regains her youth, blending humor and heart.
- Patagonia: Life on the Edge of the World (2021) – A mesmerizing docuseries exploring the wildlife and landscapes of Patagonia.
- Extraordinary (2019) – A Spanish teen drama about a girl navigating high school while hiding her supernatural abilities.
These international picks highlight Disney’s global storytelling reach, offering fresh perspectives outside the usual Hollywood lens.
Disney+ is packed with hidden treasures beyond its most advertised titles. Whether you’re in the mood for an overlooked animated classic, a nostalgic live-action adventure, or an underrated documentary, there’s something for everyone. So next time you’re scrolling, skip the algorithm’s top picks and dive into one of these hidden gems—you won’t regret it!