Disney Renaissance
Overview
The Disney Renaissance is a period from 1989 to 1999 during which Walt Disney Animation Studios returned to producing critically and commercially successful animated films that were mostly based on well-known stories, much as the studio did during the era of Walt Disney himself. The resurgence allowed Disney's animated films to become powerhouse successes at the domestic and foreign box office, earning much greater profit than most of the other films released by the studio in the same time period.
Background
Before the Disney Renaissance, the studio's animated features were experiencing a significant downturn. The 1980s saw a decline in box-office performance and critical reception for Disney's annual feature films, with the exception of The Little Mermaid, which is considered by many to be the film that sparked the beginning of the Disney Renaissance.
Films of the Disney Renaissance
The Disney Renaissance is best known for the films it produced, which have had a significant impact on popular culture. These films include The Little Mermaid (1989), Beauty and the Beast (1991), Aladdin (1992), The Lion King (1994), Pocahontas (1995), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996), Hercules (1997), Mulan (1998), and Tarzan (1999).
Impact on Disney
The Disney Renaissance had a profound impact on the Walt Disney Company. It not only revived the company's animation department, but it also helped Disney expand into Broadway, television, and theme parks. The success of the films also led to the creation of numerous direct-to-video sequels, a practice Disney had seldom utilized before.
Legacy
The Disney Renaissance left a significant legacy in animation and popular culture. The films of this era are regularly listed among the greatest animated films of all time, and they have had a significant cultural impact. The Renaissance also had a significant influence on the broader animation industry, revitalizing interest in the medium and leading to a period of increased competition and innovation.