The Walt Disney Company has long been synonymous with enchanting fairy tales, many of which are adaptations of stories that have entered the public domain. Here’s a look at 10 of the best Disney movies that have their roots in these timeless classics.

1.Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)

Adapted from the German fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm, this was Disney’s first full-length animated feature film and is renowned for its pioneering role in animation.

2.Cinderella (1950)

Based on Charles Perrault’s “Cendrillon”, this rags-to-riches story has become a keystone in Disney’s collection, introducing characters and melodies beloved by generations.

3.Sleeping Beauty (1959)

Drawing from both Charles Perrault’s “The Sleeping Beauty” and the Brothers Grimm’s “Little Briar Rose”, this classic film features one of Disney’s most memorable villains, Maleficent.

4.The Little Mermaid (1989)

Inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s tale, “The Little Mermaid” marked the beginning of the Disney Renaissance and has since inspired a Broadway show, and soon, a live-action adaptation.

5.Beauty and the Beast (1991)

This movie takes its cue from the French fairy tale by Jeanne-Marie Leprince de Beaumont and received widespread acclaim for its animation and musical score.

6.Aladdin (1992)

Adapted from “Aladdin’s Wonderful Lamp”, part of the folk tales in “One Thousand and One Nights”, this movie introduced audiences to the charming streets of Agrabah and iconic characters like Genie.

7.The Lion King (1994)

While not directly taken from a single public domain story, “The Lion King” borrows elements from Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” and the biblical tales of Moses and Joseph, crafting a unique narrative about responsibility and redemption.

8.Pocahontas (1995)

Derived from historical figures rather than fairy tale or legend, this film tells a romanticized version of Pocahontas and John Smith during the establishment of Jamestown.

9.Mulan (1998)

Based on the Chinese legend of Hua Mulan, this animated feature celebrates bravery and gender roles with its depiction of a young woman who disguises herself as a man to save her father.

10.Frozen (2013)

Loosely inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s “The Snow Queen,” Frozen broke box office records for animated films and launched an anthem for self-acceptance with its hit song “Let It Go.”

These movies exemplify how Disney has taken stories available to all and imbued them with unique magic, creating new versions that continue to delight audiences worldwide.