Lesser-Known Disney+ Movies That Are Totally Worth Watching

Disney+ hides a treasure trove of under-the-radar films alongside the big franchises, spanning true stories, daring animation, heartfelt sports dramas, adventurous family fare, and polished documentaries. Below are forty-five titles that often fly beneath the mainstream radar, with quick, practical details—who made them, who stars in them, what they’re about, and a few notable production facts—to help you decide what to queue up next.

‘Togo’ (2019)

Directed by Ericson Core, ‘Togo’ dramatizes the real-life serum run in Alaska led by musher Leonhard Seppala and his lead dog. Willem Dafoe stars as Seppala, with much of the film shot on snow-packed locations and sets to capture harsh Arctic conditions. The production used a mix of practical sled work and trained dog teams, with limited CGI to maintain authenticity. The film explores endurance and the bond between a musher and his dog across treacherous terrain.

‘Queen of Katwe’ (2016)

‘Queen of Katwe’ is directed by Mira Nair and follows Ugandan chess prodigy Phiona Mutesi’s rise from Katwe to international tournaments. Lupita Nyong’o and David Oyelowo co-star, and the film features extensive location shooting in Kampala and Johannesburg. Disney collaborated with local communities to cast many supporting roles from the region. The screenplay adapts Tim Crothers’s nonfiction book about Mutesi’s life and career.

‘Timmy Failure: Mistakes Were Made’ (2020)

Based on Stephan Pastis’s bestselling books, ‘Timmy Failure: Mistakes Were Made’ is directed by Tom McCarthy. It centers on a Portland kid who runs a one-boy detective agency with his polar-bear partner, blending live action with visual-effects creature work. The production filmed on location around Portland, incorporating local landmarks and neighborhoods. Wallace Shawn and Craig Robinson appear in supporting roles, with a whimsical score underscoring Timmy’s offbeat investigations.

‘Safety’ (2020)

‘Safety’ tells the true story of Clemson University football player Ray McElrathbey, who secretly cares for his younger brother while juggling academics and athletics. Directed by Reginald Hudlin, the film worked with Clemson’s facilities and recreated game-day sequences with large-scale crowd coordination. It features on-field action choreographed with consultants to mirror collegiate play. The narrative highlights NCAA compliance challenges and the community support that formed around the brothers.

‘Clouds’ (2020)

‘Clouds’ adapts Laura Sobiech’s memoir about her son, musician Zach Sobiech, and his songwriting journey. Directed by Justin Baldoni, the film integrates performances of Zach’s music with dramatized scenes of his life, friends, and family. Production partnered with the Sobiech family to incorporate real artifacts and inspirations behind the songs. The soundtrack includes the viral hit ‘Clouds,’ recorded by Zach with his band A Firm Handshake.

‘The Finest Hours’ (2016)

‘The Finest Hours’ recounts a U.S. Coast Guard rescue off Cape Cod after a tanker split apart during a fierce storm. Directed by Craig Gillespie, it stars Chris Pine and Casey Affleck, with large-scale water-tank work and digital effects to depict towering seas. The production rebuilt sections of the Pendleton tanker and small rescue craft for practical sequences. Technical advisors from the Coast Guard consulted on procedures, equipment, and period details.

‘McFarland, USA’ (2015)

Directed by Niki Caro, ‘McFarland, USA’ follows a high-school cross-country team formed in California’s Central Valley. Kevin Costner plays the coach, with principal photography capturing agricultural landscapes and community settings. The film draws on accounts of the real McFarland program, including training regimens and regional meets. Authentic race choreography and local casting helped portray the team’s running culture and family networks.

‘The Rocketeer’ (1991)

‘The Rocketeer’ adapts Dave Stevens’s comic about a stunt pilot who discovers a prototype jetpack. Directed by Joe Johnston, it features practical flying rigs, period aviation designs, and Art Deco production design. The score by James Horner emphasizes pulp-adventure tones, while effects teams blended miniatures with wire work. Jennifer Connelly and Timothy Dalton co-star in a story set against a Hollywood and airfield backdrop.

‘Return to Oz’ (1985)

Directed by Walter Murch, ‘Return to Oz’ draws from L. Frank Baum’s ‘Ozma of Oz’ and ‘The Marvelous Land of Oz.’ It uses extensive animatronics and stop-motion, including the characters Tik-Tok and Jack Pumpkinhead. The production’s darker visual approach includes elaborate practical sets and creature effects. Fairuza Balk stars as Dorothy, with location work and stage builds creating a weathered, fantastical Oz.

‘Flight of the Navigator’ (1986)

‘Flight of the Navigator’ follows a boy who disappears and returns after a mysterious trip aboard an alien ship. The film features early use of CGI mapping for the spacecraft’s reflective surface and motion. Practical set pieces and a full-size ship interior ground the scenes with tactile details. The soundtrack blends electronic elements with orchestral cues to match the film’s kid-meets-technology premise.

‘The Straight Story’ (1999)

Directed by David Lynch, ‘The Straight Story’ is based on Alvin Straight’s ride-on-lawnmower journey to visit his ailing brother. Richard Farnsworth stars, with Sissy Spacek in a supporting role, and the film emphasizes Midwestern landscapes through patient, widescreen cinematography. It received a general-audience rating unusual for the director’s filmography. Angelo Badalamenti’s score underscores a reflective tone aligned with the real-life account.

‘The Black Cauldron’ (1985)

‘The Black Cauldron’ adapts Lloyd Alexander’s ‘The Chronicles of Prydain’ into a dark fantasy quest. It marked a technological shift for Disney Animation, incorporating early computer-assisted imagery in layout and effects. Backgrounds and character designs draw on Celtic and Welsh influences for a distinctive look. The film’s production underwent notable edits to balance intense sequences with broader audience expectations.

‘Atlantis: The Lost Empire’ (2001)

‘Atlantis: The Lost Empire’ blends adventure and science-fantasy with a team of explorers searching for a hidden civilization. The art direction incorporates Mike Mignola–inspired angular design and a constructed Atlantean language developed by linguist Marc Okrand. Traditional animation is combined with computer-assisted vehicles and effects for large-scale set pieces. James Newton Howard composed the score, supporting the film’s expedition structure and ensemble cast.

‘Treasure Planet’ (2002)

‘Treasure Planet’ reimagines Robert Louis Stevenson’s ‘Treasure Island’ as a spacefaring adventure with solar-sailing ships. It pioneers deep-canvas technology to marry hand-drawn characters with 3D environments. The film’s visual style mixes retro nautical motifs with sci-fi machinery and alien species. John Rzeznik contributed original songs, while the narrative centers on mentorship between Jim Hawkins and John Silver.

‘Eight Below’ (2006)

‘Eight Below’ follows a group of sled dogs left behind during an Antarctic evacuation and the expedition guide determined to return for them. The production used trained canine performers and shot snowbound sequences with both location and stage work. It draws inspiration from a real Japanese research expedition and earlier dramatizations of that story. Paul Walker leads the cast, with sequences focused on survival, weather hazards, and team dynamics.

‘Stargirl’ (2020)

Directed by Julia Hart, ‘Stargirl’ adapts Jerry Spinelli’s novel about a free-spirited newcomer who shakes up a high school’s routines. Grace VanderWaal stars alongside Graham Verchere, with original songs incorporated into the story. Production used Arizona locations for school and desert sequences to ground the coming-of-age setting. The film balances performance scenes with quieter character moments that track confidence, friendship, and creativity.

‘Hollywood Stargirl’ (2022)

‘Hollywood Stargirl’ continues the protagonist’s journey as she moves to Los Angeles and collaborates with aspiring filmmakers and musicians. Julia Hart returns to direct, with Grace VanderWaal, Elijah Richardson, and Judy Greer leading the cast. The production weaves music creation into the narrative, featuring on-camera songwriting and recording. Los Angeles neighborhoods and small venues provide the backdrop for indie-spirited filmmaking and networking.

‘Flora & Ulysses’ (2021)

Based on Kate DiCamillo’s book, ‘Flora & Ulysses’ follows a comic-loving kid who discovers a super-powered squirrel. Directed by Lena Khan, it blends live action with VFX animation for the title character. Alyson Hannigan and Ben Schwartz co-star, with suburban settings and comic-style visual gags. The adaptation threads family dynamics with superhero tropes tailored to younger viewers.

‘The One and Only Ivan’ (2020)

‘The One and Only Ivan’ adapts Katherine Applegate’s novel about a silverback gorilla in a mall circus who discovers a path to freedom. The film combines live action with photoreal CGI animals supervised by major VFX houses. Bryan Cranston stars, with voice performances from Sam Rockwell and Angelina Jolie. Production recreated performance spaces and backstage environments to contrast spectacle with behind-the-scenes care.

‘Godmothered’ (2020)

‘Godmothered’ presents a trainee fairy godmother determined to prove the relevance of her craft in the modern world. Directed by Sharon Maguire, it features Jillian Bell and Isla Fisher in a contemporary Boston setting. Practical effects and digital enhancements support wand-centric transformations and comedic set pieces. The story explores mentorship within a magical bureaucracy that measures wishes and outcomes.

‘Rise’ (2022)

‘Rise’ dramatizes the Antetokounmpo family’s path from Greece to professional basketball success. Directed by Akin Omotoso, it centers on the brothers’ early development and the family’s efforts around paperwork, housing, and training. Real courts, community gyms, and neighborhood exteriors in Athens frame key sequences. The production consulted with the family to reflect milestones and challenges in competitive youth sports.

‘Better Nate Than Ever’ (2022)

Adapted from Tim Federle’s novel, ‘Better Nate Than Ever’ follows a theater-obsessed middle-schooler who heads to New York for a Broadway audition. Lisa Kudrow appears alongside Rueby Wood and Aria Brooks, with musical numbers integrated into street-level escapades. The film showcases rehearsal rooms, casting calls, and stage logistics for young performers. Location work in Manhattan highlights the audition ecosystem and supportive communities around it.

‘Magic Camp’ (2020)

‘Magic Camp’ focuses on a summer program where young magicians refine skills under a once-promising performer’s guidance. Directed by Mark Waters, it features Adam DeVine, Gillian Jacobs, and Jeffrey Tambor. Practical sleight-of-hand training informed many tricks, with consultants shaping routines for camera. Camp sets, workshops, and competition staging emphasize practice, teamwork, and showmanship.

‘Stuntman’ (2018)

‘Stuntman’ is a documentary following Eddie Braun as he attempts a rocket-powered jump inspired by Evel Knievel’s Snake River Canyon effort. Produced with Seven Bucks Productions, it chronicles testing, engineering, and risk calculations. The film includes interviews with veteran coordinators and behind-the-scenes logistics. Flight preparation, safety protocols, and crew dynamics drive the narrative toward the launch window.

‘Howard’ (2018)

‘Howard’ profiles lyricist Howard Ashman, known for shaping the modern Disney musical through collaboration with Alan Menken. Directed by Don Hahn, it draws on archival footage, demos, and interviews with family and colleagues. The documentary traces his theater roots, storytelling approach, and song development for animated features. It contextualizes creative breakthroughs alongside studio pressures and production timelines.

‘Wolfgang’ (2021)

Directed by David Gelb, ‘Wolfgang’ charts chef Wolfgang Puck’s culinary rise and influence on dining culture. The film combines archival material with new interviews and kitchen sequences across restaurants and test kitchens. It maps brand expansion, mentorship, and media appearances that broadened his reach. Culinary process shots highlight technique, sourcing, and service coordination behind signature dishes.

‘More Than Robots’ (2022)

‘More Than Robots’ follows student teams preparing for the global FIRST Robotics competition. Directed by Gillian Jacobs, it showcases design sprints, coding challenges, and mentor guidance across multiple countries. The documentary tracks setbacks and iterative problem-solving as teams refine their bots. Competition footage illustrates rules, alliance strategies, and the seasonal cycle of engineering milestones.

‘The Journey of Natty Gann’ (1985)

Set during the Great Depression, ‘The Journey of Natty Gann’ follows a girl traveling across the United States to reunite with her father. Directed by Jeremy Kagan, it features Meredith Salenger and John Cusack in early roles. On-location shooting captures forests, rail yards, and small towns to ground the period trek. Animal handling and stunt coordination support sequences involving a protective wolf companion.

‘Candleshoe’ (1977)

‘Candleshoe’ teams Jodie Foster with David Niven and Helen Hayes in a caper around a hidden fortune in an English manor. The plot involves a con intersecting with an eccentric household, with exterior work at historic estates. The production blends mystery clues with playful disguise gags and household set-pieces. Practical stunt bits and ensemble timing drive the story toward a treasure-hunt payoff.

‘Black Beauty’ (2020)

‘Black Beauty’ reimagines Anna Sewell’s classic from the perspective of a wild-caught mustang who forges a bond with a teen at a family stable. Directed by Ashley Avis, it stars Mackenzie Foy with voice performance by Kate Winslet. The production coordinated extensive equine training, humane handling protocols, and multi-horse doubles for action beats. Location work spans ranches, training arenas, and countryside trails to chart the horse’s changing caretakers.

‘Strange Magic’ (2015)

Produced by Lucasfilm and inspired by Shakespeare’s ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream,’ ‘Strange Magic’ follows rival fairy-tale realms whose rulers clash over a love potion. The film uses stylized character animation and a jukebox approach with popular songs reinterpreted by the cast. Voice talent includes Alan Cumming, Evan Rachel Wood, and Kristin Chenoweth. The production emphasizes elaborate creature design and dense forest environments rendered with detailed lighting.

‘The Black Hole’ (1979)

‘The Black Hole’ blends space-opera adventure with speculative science themes centered on a starship encountering a long-lost vessel near a gravitational singularity. The film showcases early motion-control visual effects, large-scale miniatures, and distinctive robot designs. John Barry composed the score, adding a dramatic orchestral presence to expansive set pieces. Practical sets, including a multi-level control deck and gantries, frame climactic sequences.

‘Valiant’ (2005)

‘Valiant’ is an animated feature about a small wood pigeon joining a World War II courier squadron. Produced in the United Kingdom with Disney handling distribution, it features voice performances by Ewan McGregor, Ricky Gervais, and Tim Curry. The production references wartime training, code-carrying missions, and coastal operations. Stylized aerial choreography and period-inspired props build a compact, family-friendly war story.

‘Meet the Robinsons’ (2007)

Based on William Joyce’s picture book, ‘Meet the Robinsons’ follows an inventive kid who time-travels into a future filled with eccentric relatives and rival inventors. The film reflects an early rollout of Disney’s CG animation pipeline after studio restructuring. Danny Elfman’s score anchors fast-moving sequences and recurring motifs. Visual gags, gadgetry, and character-driven set pieces emphasize optimism and persistence in problem-solving.

‘Young Black Stallion’ (2003)

Shot for IMAX presentation, ‘The Young Black Stallion’ serves as a prequel to ‘The Black Stallion’ canon and tracks a girl forming a bond with a desert-born colt. The production filmed across striking dune and wadi locations, emphasizing widescreen vistas. Equine trainers coordinated riding and racing sequences with safety-focused choreography. The narrative highlights cultural settings, family ties, and endurance riding traditions.

‘Noelle’ (2019)

‘Noelle’ follows the daughter of Santa Claus as she takes on holiday duties when her brother falters, blending North Pole tradition with a modern road-trip setup. Written and directed by Marc Lawrence, it stars Anna Kendrick and Bill Hader with supporting turns from Shirley MacLaine and Billy Eichner. Production design builds candy-striped workshops, bespoke costumes, and sleigh-flight gags enhanced by VFX. Location shooting in desert and urban areas supports fish-out-of-water sequences beyond the Pole.

‘White Fang’ (1991)

Adapted from Jack London’s novel, ‘White Fang’ centers on a young prospector and a wolfdog during a gold-rush era. The production integrates animal training with rugged location shoots for sled runs, camp life, and frontier towns. Cinematography highlights alpine backdrops and seasonal weather shifts. The story explores trust, domestication, and the challenges of remote livelihoods.

‘The Odd Life of Timothy Green’ (2012)

‘The Odd Life of Timothy Green’ follows a couple who, after writing down their hopes for a child, experience the sudden arrival of a mysterious boy. The film balances small-town settings with magical-realist elements tied to gardens and seasons. Jennifer Garner and Joel Edgerton star, with an ensemble of neighbors, coaches, and relatives shaping the community backdrop. Production design emphasizes natural textures, hand-made objects, and schoolhouse spaces.

‘Million Dollar Arm’ (2014)

‘Million Dollar Arm’ dramatizes a sports agent’s effort to scout cricket bowlers for baseball tryouts through a televised competition. The film spans training camps, visa logistics, and cultural adaptation for athletes transitioning to a new sport. It drew on consultants from professional baseball to stage pitching sessions and minor-league game action. Location work covers urban neighborhoods, stadiums, and practice facilities that chart the athletes’ progress.

‘Secretariat’ (2010)

‘Secretariat’ chronicles the Triple Crown–winning racehorse and the farm and racing teams that managed a high-stakes campaign. The production coordinates racetrack access, period wardrobes, and equine handling for gate breaks and stretch runs. Cinematography mixes handheld and crane movement to cover speed and crowd scale. Cast and crew consulted historical archives to align names, ownership details, and race-day particulars.

‘Dolphin Reef’ (2018)

A Disneynature feature, ‘Dolphin Reef’ explores the lives of a young dolphin and the reef community surrounding it. The film employs underwater cinematography, macro lenses, and time-lapse techniques to depict coral ecosystems. It highlights symbiotic relationships, predator–prey dynamics, and social bonds among pods. Narration guides viewers through feeding strategies, play behavior, and survival challenges.

‘Elephant’ (2020)

‘Elephant’ follows a matriarch-led herd on a long migration across varied terrains to find water and forage. The documentary team used long-lens and aerial platforms to minimize disturbance and capture herd movement. It documents decision-making within family groups, teaching behaviors, and route memory. Production partners worked with local guides and conservation experts for safe and ethical field practices.

‘Born in China’ (2016)

‘Born in China’ tracks several animal families—pandas, snow leopards, and golden snub-nosed monkeys—across distinct habitats. The filmmakers navigated high-altitude conditions, extreme temperatures, and remote plateaus for extended shoots. The narrative alternates between seasonal cycles and parental care patterns. Close-up sequences and camouflaged blinds enabled intimate views of rarely filmed species.

‘Monkey Kingdom’ (2015)

Set around ancient ruins in South Asia, ‘Monkey Kingdom’ follows a troop of toque macaques as they compete and cooperate within a social hierarchy. The crew used stabilized rigs and climbing vantage points to film foraging, grooming, and territorial disputes. The documentary covers nesting, predator awareness, and infant care across wet and dry seasons. It contextualizes troop behavior with nearby human landscapes and shared resources.

‘The Secret of the Magic Gourd’ (2007)

A collaboration with Chinese partners, ‘The Secret of the Magic Gourd’ combines live action with a CGI wish-granting gourd that complicates a boy’s daily life. Production integrates classroom, neighborhood, and fantasy interludes with practical props and digital augmentation. The story addresses effort versus shortcuts, with set pieces tied to schoolwork, hobbies, and community events. It reflects Disney’s early-localization strategy for original content tailored to regional audiences.

Share your own overlooked favorites from Disney+ in the comments so everyone can discover a few new picks to watch next!