Best Ron Clements Movies
Get ready to dive into the imaginative world of Ron Clements, a Disney legend who brought us some of animation's most beloved classics! His directing credits are filled with vibrant characters, catchy musical numbers, and heartwarming stories that have captured the hearts of audiences for generations. This list celebrates Clements' directorial achievements, showcasing his unique ability to blend humor, adventure, and genuine emotion into unforgettable cinematic experiences. Now it's your turn to be the critic! We've assembled a list of Ron Clements' best films, but the order is up to you. Use the drag-and-drop feature to rearrange the titles and create your own personal ranking of his greatest directorial works. Share your preferences and see how your list compares to others!
The Princess and the Frog (2009)
"The Princess and the Frog" (2009) revitalizes the classic fairy tale, set in the vibrant and jazzy backdrop of 1920s New Orleans. Tiana, a hardworking and ambitious waitress, dreams of opening her own restaurant. Her path takes an unexpected turn when she encounters Prince Naveen, transformed into a frog by the sinister voodoo magician, Dr. Facilier. In a desperate attempt to break the curse, Tiana kisses Naveen, only to find herself turned into a frog as well. Together, they embark on a transformative adventure through the Louisiana bayou, encountering a cast of memorable characters like the trumpet-playing alligator Louis and the wise voodoo priestess Mama Odie, all while trying to find a way to break the curse and return to their human forms. "The Princess and the Frog" earns its place on a list of Ron Clements' best films because it showcases his mastery of visual storytelling, character development, and musical integration. Clements, alongside John Musker, expertly crafts a vibrant and immersive world, drawing inspiration from the rich culture and music of New Orleans. The film also features a strong and independent female protagonist in Tiana, breaking from traditional Disney princess tropes. Further solidifying its spot is the film's unforgettable soundtrack, infused with jazz, blues, and gospel, creating a musical landscape as compelling as the animation. The film's enduring appeal lies in its heartwarming story, memorable characters, and its celebration of dreams, hard work, and the power of finding love in unexpected places.
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Aladdin (1992)
#11.0"Aladdin (1992)" is a vibrant and enchanting animated film that follows the adventures of a street-urchin named Aladdin in the bustling city of Agrabah. Princess Jasmine, stifled by her royal constraints and yearning for freedom, disguises herself and ventures into the marketplace, where she encounters Aladdin. Their connection is immediate, a spark of love ignited despite the vast social divide separating them. However, their burgeoning romance is threatened when Aladdin is imprisoned and unwittingly thrust into a dangerous scheme orchestrated by the power-hungry Jafar, who seeks a magical lamp that holds the key to ultimate dominion. This movie earns its place among the best of Ron Clements' filmography for its masterful blend of humor, heart, and thrilling adventure. Clements and his directing partner, John Musker, deliver a film rich with memorable characters, from the wisecracking Genie (voiced by the incomparable Robin Williams) to the cunning Jafar. "Aladdin" showcases Clements' knack for crafting compelling narratives with strong emotional cores, further elevated by visually stunning animation and a soundtrack brimming with catchy, award-winning songs. Its enduring popularity stems from its ability to transport audiences to a fantastical world while simultaneously exploring themes of social injustice, self-discovery, and the power of true love.
Moana (2016)
#22.0"Moana" (2016) whisks audiences away to the vibrant and enchanting world of Ancient Polynesia. When a devastating curse, unleashed by the demigod Maui, threatens her island home, the spirited and determined Moana, daughter of the village chief, embarks on a perilous journey across the vast ocean. Heeding the call of the sea itself, she seeks out Maui to right his wrongs and restore balance to the natural world, a quest filled with breathtaking animation, memorable musical numbers, and a powerful message about self-discovery and honoring one's heritage. "Moana" earns its place among Ron Clements' best films due to his masterful storytelling and visual flair. Clements, along with co-director John Musker, infuses the film with a deep respect for Polynesian culture and mythology, crafting a narrative that is both exciting and emotionally resonant. His signature blend of humor, heart, and unforgettable characters shines through, resulting in a visually stunning and universally appealing adventure that further solidifies his legacy as a leading figure in animated filmmaking. The film's strong female lead, its catchy soundtrack, and its groundbreaking use of computer animation all contribute to its status as a modern classic within Clements' impressive filmography.
The Little Mermaid (1989)
#33.0"The Little Mermaid (1989)" is a vibrant and captivating animated classic that reimagines the beloved Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale. This colorful adventure tells the story of an impetuous mermaid princess named Ariel who falls in love with the very human Prince Eric and puts everything on the line for the chance to be with him. Memorable songs and characters -- including the villainous sea witch Ursula -- bring the underwater world to life, creating a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience that continues to enchant audiences of all ages. This film rightfully earns its place among the best of Ron Clements' directorial works. Clements, alongside John Musker, masterfully revitalized Disney animation with "The Little Mermaid." It marked a return to the studio's musical roots, showcasing Alan Menken and Howard Ashman's iconic songwriting which injected Broadway sensibilities into the Disney formula. More importantly, Clements' direction gave the film a strong narrative drive, sympathetic characters, and a sense of genuine wonder, setting a new standard for animated storytelling and paving the way for the Disney Renaissance. His ability to balance humor, heart, and spectacle makes "The Little Mermaid" a true masterpiece of animation.
Hercules (1997)
#44.0Disney's "Hercules" (1997) is a vibrant and action-packed animated adventure that follows the journey of a young Hercules, blessed with incredible strength, as he strives to earn his place among the gods. Torn from Olympus as an infant and raised as a mortal, he embarks on a quest to prove himself a true hero. Along the way, he's guided by the wisecracking satyr Philoctetes (Phil), a washed-up hero trainer, and aided by his loyal winged stallion, Pegasus. However, his path to heroism is constantly thwarted by the hilariously sinister Hades, the god of the Underworld, who schemes to overthrow Zeus and seize control of Mount Olympus. "Hercules" definitively earns its spot on a list of "Best Ron Clements Movies" due to Clements' co-directorial role and distinctive storytelling influence. The film showcases Clements' signature blend of humor, heart, and compelling characters, evident in the witty dialogue, memorable musical numbers co-written by Alan Menken, and the dynamic relationships between Hercules, Phil, and Megara. While sharing directing credits with John Musker, Clements' influence can be seen in the film's focus on character development and the nuanced portrayal of complex themes such as identity, destiny, and what truly defines a hero. "Hercules" exhibits the very best of Clements' ability to craft a visually stunning and emotionally resonant animated classic.
The Princess and the Frog (2009)
#55.0"The Princess and the Frog" (2009) revitalizes the classic fairy tale, set in the vibrant and jazzy backdrop of 1920s New Orleans. Tiana, a hardworking and ambitious waitress, dreams of opening her own restaurant. Her path takes an unexpected turn when she encounters Prince Naveen, transformed into a frog by the sinister voodoo magician, Dr. Facilier. In a desperate attempt to break the curse, Tiana kisses Naveen, only to find herself turned into a frog as well. Together, they embark on a transformative adventure through the Louisiana bayou, encountering a cast of memorable characters like the trumpet-playing alligator Louis and the wise voodoo priestess Mama Odie, all while trying to find a way to break the curse and return to their human forms. "The Princess and the Frog" earns its place on a list of Ron Clements' best films because it showcases his mastery of visual storytelling, character development, and musical integration. Clements, alongside John Musker, expertly crafts a vibrant and immersive world, drawing inspiration from the rich culture and music of New Orleans. The film also features a strong and independent female protagonist in Tiana, breaking from traditional Disney princess tropes. Further solidifying its spot is the film's unforgettable soundtrack, infused with jazz, blues, and gospel, creating a musical landscape as compelling as the animation. The film's enduring appeal lies in its heartwarming story, memorable characters, and its celebration of dreams, hard work, and the power of finding love in unexpected places.
Treasure Planet (2002)
#66.0"Treasure Planet" (2002) boldly reimagines Robert Louis Stevenson's classic adventure novel "Treasure Island" in a stunning science fiction setting. When space galleon cabin boy Jim Hawkins stumbles upon a map leading to the legendary "loot of a thousand worlds," he embarks on an incredible journey across the cosmos. Aboard the R.L.S. Legacy, Jim finds an unlikely mentor in John Silver, a cyborg cook who imparts invaluable lessons on navigation and survival, guiding him through treacherous supernovas and violent space storms. However, the promise of fortune turns perilous as Jim uncovers a shocking truth: Silver is a pirate, plotting a mutiny to seize the treasure for himself, forcing Jim to confront his own courage and make a difficult choice. "Treasure Planet" earns its place among the best of Ron Clements's filmography for its innovative visual style and its heartfelt exploration of complex characters. Clements, alongside John Musker, consistently delivers stories with depth and emotion, and this film is no exception. While the film might not be as commercially successful as some of their other ventures, its unique steampunk-inspired aesthetic, combining classic sailing ships with futuristic technology, showcases Clements's willingness to take creative risks. More importantly, the film's core theme of found family, mirrored in the complicated but ultimately loving relationship between Jim and Silver, aligns with the heartfelt character dynamics that consistently elevate Clements's films, cementing its status as a memorable and underrated gem.
The Great Mouse Detective (1986)
#77.0"The Great Mouse Detective" (1986) follows the thrilling adventures of Basil of Baker Street, a brilliant mouse detective residing beneath the iconic London address. When the nefarious Professor Ratigan, a villain as cunning as he is charismatic, kidnaps the renowned toymaker Hiram Flaversham, Basil and his newly acquired companion, Dr. Dawson, embark on a perilous quest to rescue him. Their investigation leads them through the murky depths of London's underworld, a thrilling chase sequence in a toy shop, and ultimately, a showdown with Ratigan himself, where they must use their wits and courage to foil his dastardly plan for world domination. This charming animated feature is a delightful blend of mystery, adventure, and humor, showcasing classic Disney storytelling at its finest. "The Great Mouse Detective" earns its spot on a list of "Best Ron Clements Movies" not just for its engaging plot and memorable characters, but also for the pivotal role Clements played in its development and direction. As one of the film's directors (along with Burny Mattinson, David Michener, and John Musker), Clements was instrumental in shaping the movie's distinctive tone and visual style. His influence is evident in the film's clever blend of Victorian London setting and Sherlock Holmes-inspired mystery, creating a unique and sophisticated atmosphere. Furthermore, it marked a significant turning point in his career, solidifying his position as a major creative force at Disney and paving the way for future collaborations with John Musker on iconic films like "The Little Mermaid," "Aladdin," and "Moana."
Metal Men
#88.0"Metal Men," while perhaps not a household name like some of Ron Clements' other works, deserves its place on a list of his best films because it embodies many of the qualities that define his successful career. The film's concept - a group of sentient, elemental robots led by a brilliant but eccentric scientist - possesses the unique charm and imaginative world-building that Clements consistently brings to his projects. Imagine the potential for visual spectacle, witty character interactions, and a heartwarming story about found family within such a premise, all hallmarks of Clements' directorial style. Though the project might not have reached completion, the sheer creativity and narrative promise inherent in "Metal Men" speaks volumes about Clements' commitment to pushing the boundaries of animation and storytelling. Furthermore, placing "Metal Men" on this list acknowledges the important role that unproduced projects play in understanding a filmmaker's creative evolution. It provides insight into the types of stories Clements was interested in exploring and the themes that resonated with him. Even in its unrealized form, "Metal Men" offers a glimpse into Clements' artistic process and underscores his dedication to crafting compelling characters and narratives, regardless of genre or medium. Its inclusion demonstrates a comprehensive appreciation for Clements' body of work and recognizes the significance of projects that, while never fully realized, showcase the brilliance and vision that define his career.
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