How Many Disney Princess Films Are There?

There are currently 13 official Disney Princess films featuring the 13 official Disney Princesses. These films, spanning decades of cinematic history, represent a powerful franchise that continues to enchant audiences worldwide with its tales of courage, kindness, and dreams coming true.

The Magical World of Disney Princesses

For generations, the Disney Princess franchise has been a cultural cornerstone, shaping perceptions of fairy tales, heroism, and femininity. Beyond simply providing entertainment, these films and characters serve as touchstones for young audiences, instilling values and inspiring imaginations. Understanding the scope and evolution of this iconic brand is key to appreciating its lasting impact.

Defining a “Disney Princess Film”

Before diving deeper, let’s clarify what constitutes a “Disney Princess Film.” Generally, it refers to a feature-length animated film produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios or Pixar Animation Studios that centers around a female protagonist who is either a princess by birth, marriage, or heroic deed. This protagonist must also be included in the official Disney Princess lineup curated and marketed by Disney.

The Official List of Disney Princess Films

Here are the 13 official Disney Princess films, in chronological order of their theatrical release:

1. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)
2. Cinderella (1950)
3. Sleeping Beauty (1959)
4. The Little Mermaid (1989)
5. Beauty and the Beast (1991)
6. Aladdin (1992)
7. Pocahontas (1995)
8. Mulan (1998)
9. The Princess and the Frog (2009)
10. Tangled (2010)
11. Brave (2012)
12. Moana (2016)
13. Raya and the Last Dragon (2021)

Disney Princess Films: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

To further illuminate the captivating world of Disney Princesses, here are some frequently asked questions.

FAQ 1: What makes a character an “Official” Disney Princess?

The qualification to be an “Official Disney Princess” is more complex than simply being a princess in a Disney movie. The character must be human (or mostly human), play a significant role in her film, and achieve “princess status” through birth, marriage, or by demonstrating heroic qualities. Moreover, the character’s film must perform well both critically and commercially. Ultimately, the final decision rests with Disney Consumer Products, which evaluates a character’s marketability and brand potential.

FAQ 2: Why aren’t characters like Tinkerbell, Anna, and Elsa considered official Disney Princesses?

While beloved characters, Tinkerbell, Anna, and Elsa are marketed under separate franchises. Tinkerbell is the face of the Disney Fairies franchise, while Anna and Elsa helm the incredibly successful Frozen franchise, which Disney chose to market independently due to its immense popularity and established brand identity. Their exclusion isn’t a reflection of their popularity, but rather a strategic business decision.

FAQ 3: Has any Disney Princess ever been “demoted” or removed from the official lineup?

Yes, Tinkerbell was part of the Disney Princess lineup, but she was then moved to her own franchise of Disney Fairies.

FAQ 4: Are there any live-action Disney Princess films?

While there are numerous live-action adaptations of classic Disney animated films, including Cinderella (2015) and Beauty and the Beast (2017), these are generally considered adaptations of existing animated films rather than standalone “Disney Princess Films” in the same vein. These adaptations, however, have greatly contributed to the renewed popularity of these iconic characters.

FAQ 5: Which Disney Princess film was the highest-grossing at the box office?

As of today, it’s complicated since it depends on whether you adjust for inflation. Without adjusting for inflation, Beauty and the Beast (2017), the live-action adaptation, currently holds the record, earning over $1.2 billion worldwide. However, when adjusting for inflation, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs still reigns supreme due to its groundbreaking success in 1937.

FAQ 6: Which Disney Princess film introduced the first non-white Disney Princess?

Pocahontas (1995) marked a significant milestone as the first Disney Princess inspired by a Native American historical figure. This broadened representation within the franchise, paving the way for further diversity.

FAQ 7: Which Disney Princess film introduced the first African-American Disney Princess?

The Princess and the Frog (2009) broke ground by introducing Tiana, the first African-American Disney Princess. This was a significant step forward in diversifying the franchise and providing representation for a wider audience.

FAQ 8: Which Disney Princess film features a princess who isn’t looking for a romantic relationship?

Several Disney Princess films challenge traditional narratives focused solely on romance. Mulan prioritizes saving her father and her country over finding a husband, and Moana is driven by her desire to explore and restore balance to her world. Brave’s Merida actively resists being forced into marriage. These princesses offer a refreshing departure from solely romance-driven storylines.

FAQ 9: What is the future of Disney Princess films?

The future of Disney Princess films looks bright, with ongoing rumors and announcements of new animated and live-action projects. Disney is committed to continuing to evolve the franchise, introducing diverse characters and stories that resonate with modern audiences while staying true to the core values of the brand. Expect to see more inclusive narratives, strong female leads, and innovative storytelling techniques in future installments.

FAQ 10: How does Pixar influence the Disney Princess franchise?

While Pixar isn’t traditionally known for princess stories, Brave (2012) represents a significant collaboration between Pixar and the Disney Princess brand. Merida’s inclusion in the official lineup demonstrates the potential for Pixar’s unique storytelling sensibilities and animation techniques to contribute to the franchise. It showcases the power of family and the exploration of different aspects of love.

FAQ 11: Are there any common themes across all Disney Princess films?

Despite their diverse settings and characters, Disney Princess films share common thematic threads. These often include the importance of inner beauty, courage, kindness, perseverance, and believing in oneself. Many films also emphasize the power of dreams and the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity.

FAQ 12: Why are Disney Princess films so popular and enduring?

The enduring popularity of Disney Princess films stems from several factors. Their timeless fairy tale narratives, memorable characters, catchy songs, and stunning animation create a captivating and immersive experience for audiences of all ages. Furthermore, the films’ underlying themes of hope, love, and the triumph of good over evil resonate deeply with viewers, providing a sense of comfort and inspiration. The constant evolution of the franchise to reflect modern values also ensures its continued relevance and appeal.

In conclusion, with 13 official Disney Princess films, this franchise has created a legacy by captivating hearts and inspiring imaginations around the world. As Disney continues to innovate and expand its storytelling, the magic of the Disney Princesses will undoubtedly continue to enchant audiences for generations to come.