These female Disney characters need more time in the spotlight. Welcome to MsMojo, and today we’re counting down our picks for the most overlooked animated women in Disney and Pixar flicks that deserve far more love.
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00:00 "I know you're very busy there at Inventco Labs,
00:02 and we're just so excited to have you as a judge."
00:04 "It's my pleasure, Mr. Willerstein."
00:06 Welcome to Ms. Mojo, and today we're counting down our picks
00:09 for the most overlooked animated women in Disney and Pixar flicks
00:13 that deserve far more love.
00:15 Beware of potential spoilers ahead.
00:17 "Don't worry, Shorty here can explain it to you later."
00:22 Number 30.
00:23 Mrs. Jumbo - Dumbo
00:25 Mothers and maternal figures tend to be overlooked in the Disneyverse.
00:29 Women either being separated from their kids or killed off.
00:33 The examples are endless, from Bambi's mom to Widow Tweed.
00:36 But we want to focus on Mrs. Jumbo, Dumbo's mom.
00:39 "Isn't it thrilling?"
00:40 "I'm all a-flutter!"
00:41 "Ah, this is a proud, proud day."
00:46 She barely speaks and spends most of the movie kept from her son
00:48 after she gets in trouble protecting him.
00:51 Yet while much of Dumbo's journey of self-discovery occurs away from her,
00:54 she anchors him.
00:56 The baby mind sequence alone exemplifies her devotion.
00:59 And the support she's always going to provide.
01:02 "Rest your head close to my heart, never to part, baby of mine."
01:13 That's unconditional motherly love, and it's absolutely breathtaking.
01:17 Considering the emotional weight Mrs. Jumbo infuses the tale with,
01:21 it's a real shame she isn't talked about more.
01:23 "And I'll see you never again."
01:26 "No, we didn't go!"
01:28 "And I'll see you never again."
01:31 "And the land and sun..."
01:33 Number 29.
01:34 Anita Radcliffe, 101 Dalmatians
01:38 Pongo is onto something when he decides Anita Radcliffe and her pup
01:41 are the perfect love matches for him and his owner, Roger.
01:44 "It was almost too good to be true.
01:45 I'd never find another pair like that, not if I looked for a hundred years."
01:49 Seriously, Anita's wonderful.
01:51 Yet when we talk about this 1961 movie,
01:54 she's not usually the first, second, or even fourth name that comes up.
01:57 "For heaven's sakes, where are they?"
01:59 "Who, Cruella? I don't--"
02:01 "The puppies, the puppies!"
02:02 [Air horn]
02:04 "No time for games, where are the little brutes?"
02:06 We get it.
02:07 The Dalmatians are obviously central to the story,
02:10 and Cruella de Vil is too fabulous a villain to ignore,
02:13 and Roger writes a super catchy, accurate song.
02:16 But Anita is the one at the center of it all, connecting the threads.
02:20 She may not be the loudest character, but she's kind, reliable, and has a huge heart.
02:25 Her only crime is trusting Cruella for a little too long.
02:28 "She's like a spider waiting for the kill."
02:32 "Roger, she'll hear you."
02:34 "Look out, Cruella de Vil."
02:36 Number 28.
02:38 Mad Madam Mim - The Sword in the Stone
02:40 The Sword in the Stone is one of Disney's most underappreciated offerings,
02:44 and its villain is also hugely overlooked.
02:47 Maybe it's because she's not a traditional bad guy.
02:49 But if you ask us, her eccentricity is a big part of what makes her worthy
02:53 of more attention.
02:54 "Now don't tell me you've never heard of the marvelous Madam Mim."
02:58 "Well, no, I don't guess so."
03:01 "Madam Mim?"
03:02 "Good heavens, good heavens."
03:05 "My boy, I'm the greatest. I'm truly marvelous."
03:09 Madam Mim is a merciless witch,
03:11 and there's not much that makes her happier than seeing her rivals suffer.
03:14 She's not above cheating, either, as evidenced by her duel with Merlin.
03:18 "Now, now, Mim, Mim, no, no dragons, remember?"
03:20 "Did I say no purple dragons? Did I?"
03:24 [Splash]
03:25 She's also just a trip to watch,
03:27 with her overconfidence and unique personality.
03:30 It's time to put a lot more respect on her name,
03:33 because she's as terrifying as the Maleficents and Evil Queens of this world.
03:37 "I am an ugly old freak. The magnificent, marvelous,
03:42 mad, mad, mad, mad, Madam Mim."
03:44 Number 27.
03:47 Meriwether, Sleeping Beauty
03:49 How could you not love the three good fairies?
03:52 They not only raise Aurora, but play a huge part in defeating Maleficent alongside Philip.
03:57 Frankly, they could use more appreciation as a unit.
04:00 But between Flora, Fauna, and Meriwether,
04:02 we'd say it's the latter who's the most underrated,
04:05 considering her immense contributions to the story.
04:08 "I think we've had enough of this nonsense.
04:11 I think we ought to think of Rose and what she'll think of this mess.
04:15 I still think what I thought before. I'm going to get those wands."
04:21 Her resolute and sassy attitude is too fun,
04:24 especially when she butts heads with Flora.
04:26 Beyond that, though, she always comes through when she's needed.
04:29 "Then she can undo this fearful curse?"
04:32 "Oh no, sire. Maleficent's powers are far too great."
04:37 "But she can help."
04:39 Let's not forget she's the one who subdues Maleficent's death curse,
04:43 ensuring the princess will fall into a deep slumber
04:45 true love's kiss can save her from instead.
04:48 Aurora owes her life to this blue loving fairy.
04:51 Where's national Meriwether day?
04:52 "It can only do good, dear, to bring joy and happiness."
04:56 "Well, that would make me happy."
04:58 Number 26. Wendy Darling, Peter Pan.
05:01 The titular character, Captain Hook, and Tinkerbell get the bulk of the attention here.
05:06 Pan is the kid refusing to grow up, Hook is his sworn enemy,
05:10 and Tink, well, she speaks for herself.
05:12 But what would the adventure flick be without Wendy? Nothing.
05:16 "I came to listen to the stories."
05:19 "My stories? But they're all about you."
05:22 "Of course, that's why I like 'em. I tell 'em to the lost boys."
05:26 She and her brothers accompanying Peter to Neverland fuels the entire plot.
05:30 Plus, she captivates the protagonist, much to Tinkerbell's dismay.
05:34 Most importantly, she's a voice of reason,
05:36 understanding the Darlings must go home.
05:39 "Peter? Goodbye, Peter."
05:45 We care about the outcome because we care about her.
05:48 Thanks to her kindness and adventurous yet sophisticated persona.
05:52 Striking a balance between preserving your childlike wonder while growing up isn't easy,
05:56 but she does it flawlessly.
05:58 Give her her flowers.
06:00 "Oh, I'm so happy. I think I'll give you a kiss."
06:04 Number 25. Mrs. Potts, Beauty and the Beast.
06:09 We know this is the tale as old as time of Belle and Beast's romance.
06:12 We also know that Lumiere and even Cogsworth tend to steal the show among the supporting cast.
06:17 However, if the light should shine on anyone, it's this teapot.
06:21 She's the mom of the house, as her warmth and comforting presence
06:24 assures us things will be okay.
06:26 "But I've lost my father, my dreams, everything."
06:30 "Cheer up, child. It'll turn out alright in the end. You'll see."
06:36 Mrs. Potts brings whatever is needed to a situation,
06:39 be it compassion with Belle or tough love with the Beast.
06:42 That's saying nothing of her riveting rendition of the film's theme song.
06:46 "Tale as old as time, song as old as rhyme, beauty and the beast."
06:54 Yes, more minor female characters like the wardrobe and the feather duster
06:58 are often forgotten too.
06:59 Yet Mrs. Potts is the woman most taken for granted in relation to her monumental impact.
07:04 "I work and I slave all day long, and for what?
07:08 A culinary masterpiece called to waste."
07:11 "Don't stop your grousing. It's been a long night for all of us."
07:14 Number 24. Grandma Tala - Moana
07:17 "You're a long ways past the reef."
07:20 "Grandma?"
07:21 "Guess I chose the right tattoo."
07:27 Wise, understanding, caring, determined, dynamic, and extraordinary.
07:32 These are some of the words we'd use to describe Moana's grandmother.
07:35 We all know how important she is to the protagonist,
07:38 helping her fulfill her destiny before and after her passing.
07:42 But it seems like nobody ever stops to uplift Tala the woman.
07:45 "Why are you acting weird?"
07:47 "I'm the village crazy lady. That's my job."
07:51 She doesn't care if other people don't completely get her.
07:53 She knows herself and the truth, and trusts that her people will find their way back to the ocean.
07:58 Her fierce conviction and dedication to this belief is nothing short of admirable,
08:02 as is her ability to be totally original while still prioritizing community.
08:06 The spirited, fearless life she led could be its own movie, and it's one that should be made.
08:11 "The village may think I'm crazy or say that I drift too far,
08:15 but once you know what you like, well there you are."
08:19 Number 23. Vanellope von Schweetz - Wreck-It Ralph Franchise
08:25 This clever racer/princess endures many trials and tribulations.
08:29 She's ostracized due to her glitch status in Wreck-It Ralph,
08:32 and gradually opens up, uncovering the truth about her identity.
08:36 "This is me. Look, the code may say I'm a princess,
08:41 but I know who I really am, Ralph. I'm a racer with the greatest superpower ever!"
08:46 In the sequel, she finds a new home, really coming into herself.
08:50 She's anything but traditional through it all,
08:52 redefining what it means to be a royal through her bold quick-wittedness.
08:56 She's also a once-in-a-lifetime friend, but perhaps because she's not part of the
09:01 official Disney Princess franchise. Her name is often at the bottom of the list
09:05 when folks speak about the studio's heroines.
09:07 "I know, I know, I know, I'm an idiot."
09:10 "And?"
09:11 "And a real numbskull."
09:13 "And?"
09:14 "A selfish diaper baby."
09:16 "And?"
09:16 "And... a stink brain."
09:21 "The stinkiest brain ever."
09:24 If Ralph Breaks the Internet proved anything, though,
09:26 it's that Vanellope von Schweetz belongs with Ariel and company.
09:30 Here's hoping she starts receiving the same adoration they've historically gotten.
09:34 "Oh steering wheel, oh steering wheel,
09:38 oh yes I want a steering wheel, doo-doo-doo-boop-wow."
09:44 Number 22.
09:45 Bo Peep - Toy Story Franchise
09:47 There are toys that we forget to cherish. Bo is largely relegated to the background
09:52 in the franchise's first two entries,
09:54 with her stories often revolving around her romance with Woody.
09:57 "What do you say I get someone else to watch the sheep tonight?"
10:01 "Hell yeah, right."
10:05 "And now they're..."
10:06 "I'm just a couple of blocks away."
10:09 She's not even in the third movie, save for a quick cameo.
10:13 Having been donated.
10:14 The thing is, she's anything but a background doll.
10:17 Thankfully, she's back in a big way in Toy Story 4,
10:20 making herself heard as a self-sufficient leader who needs no owner.
10:24 "You really don't think you'll ever be in a kid's room again, huh?"
10:28 "Nope. And now with the carnival traveling through,
10:30 it's our chance to hop a ride and leave town."
10:33 "You're leaving?"
10:34 "Sure am. You ever think about getting out there, seeing the world?"
10:37 The porcelain figurine knows her worth,
10:39 proving that femininity and power are anything but mutually exclusive.
10:43 Yet her bravery, resourcefulness, and intelligence
10:46 aren't commended enough for our liking.
10:48 Instead, Bo is usually discussed in relation to Woody.
10:51 It's high time she gets her own spotlight. She's a star.
10:54 "What did I say? I leave, you follow."
10:57 "Bo, I'm so sorry, really. Just tell me how to help."
10:59 "You really want to help? Then stay out of my way."
11:02 Number 21. Charlotte Lottie LaBeouf, The Princess and the Frog
11:07 There's a lot going on in this movie. Between Tiana's restaurant dream,
11:11 her romance with Prince Naveen, Dr. Facilier's evil doing,
11:14 and, you know, the frog thing, it's easy to forget about Charlotte.
11:18 But just because something is easy doesn't make it right.
11:21 "Now run along. There are plenty of young fillies dying for you
11:24 to waltz them into a stupor. Give me them napkins, quick!"
11:28 "What are those for?"
11:29 "I swear I'm sweating like a sinner in church!"
11:31 She's Tiana's bestie, and at first she may seem like a stereotypical rich girl.
11:36 And yes, she's spoiled. However, the young woman is much more than that.
11:40 "All my life, I read about true love and fairy tales and...Tia, you found it.
11:48 I'll kiss him. For you, honey. No marriage required."
11:55 She's a good, generous person who's willing to prioritize her friend's love for Naveen
12:00 over her own desire to be royalty. She's also a blast to be around.
12:04 We'd be lucky to have her in our corner. So we'd recommend re-watching
12:08 The Princess and the Frog while keeping a special eye out for Lottie this time.
12:11 "How old did you say you were?" "I'm six and a half."
12:16 "Well, I waited this long."
12:19 Number 20. Miss Bianca, the Rescuers franchise.
12:24 "Are you...are you all right, dear?"
12:26 "Why, she...she tried to kill us, that...that terrible woman!"
12:31 Miss Bianca is arguably one of the first true feminists to come out of the Mouse House.
12:37 When The Rescuers hit theaters in 1977, female Disney characters weren't generally
12:42 depicted as strong or self-reliant. This little mouse, however, stood out as a modern lady.
12:48 "Just went through a red light." "Oh, I do that all the time, darling.
12:52 Now, come on. Stop worrying."
12:56 Classy, resourceful, and full of passion, anybody would want to have an adventure with her.
13:00 Bianca's outgoing attitude perfectly complements the timid Bernard,
13:04 her partner at the Rescue Aid Society.
13:06 "What did you do to make him so mad?" "Nothing, he's just a...just a grumpy old lion."
13:14 Both of these characters are treated as equals, and neither is limited by his or her gender.
13:19 Bianca in particular lights up the screen with her charisma. Just as she's an underrated character,
13:24 the same could be said about the 1990 sequel The Rescuers Down Under.
13:29 "But you don't understand. A boy needs our help. He's in trouble."
13:33 "Boy? You mean, little kid kind of boy?"
13:36 Number 19. Captain Amelia, Treasure Planet.
13:40 "Mr. Ogden, make sure all lifelines are secure, good and tight."
13:45 The ladies of this list come from a wide variety of backgrounds,
13:50 but how many can say they've piloted a sailboat through space?
13:54 This feline captain, serving as the film equivalent to Captain Smollett
13:58 in this sci-fi film adaptation of Treasure Island, is an exceptional leader and navigator,
14:03 who guides the RLS legacy across black holes, supernovas, and cosmic storms.
14:08 "Here it comes!" "Hold on to your lifelines, gents, it's gonna be a bumpy ride!"
14:15 Paired with her nautical expertise is her quick wits, sophisticated style of speech,
14:19 and her uncompromising professional standards.
14:22 "Don't much care for this crew you hired."
14:25 "They're... how did I describe them? I don't know, I said something rather good this morning before coffee."
14:30 "A ludicrous parcel of driveling galutes, ma'am."
14:35 Known to some as the finest captain in this or any other galaxy,
14:38 Amelia is about as tough and brave as they come in this underappreciated box office flop.
14:44 "Unorthodox, but ludicrous."
14:47 "Unorthodox, but ludicrously effective."
14:51 Number 18. Kida, Atlantis the Lost Empire.
14:55 "You do swim, do you not?"
14:57 "Oh, I swim pretty good, pretty good, pretty good, swim good, pretty good, I swim pretty good."
15:02 Kida is a different kind of Disney princess. She doesn't sing songs or wear fancy dresses.
15:08 Rather, this princess and eventual queen of Atlantis is a warrior woman who knows
15:13 how to handle herself in battle. Kida isn't a straight-faced stick in the mud, though.
15:17 She also has a certain wide-eyed curiosity that makes her more identifiable.
15:22 "I have some questions for you, and you are not leaving this city until they are answered."
15:26 Since this film didn't do so well at the box office,
15:29 Kida is never marketed in the Disney princess franchise. Given the cult status Atlantis has
15:34 been gaining, however, perhaps Kida will join her fellow royals someday.
15:39 "If these outsiders can unlock the secrets of our past, perhaps we can save our future."
15:45 Number 17. Kiara, The Lion King 2 - Simba's Pride
15:49 "Them? Us? Look at them. They are us. What differences do you see?"
15:57 This direct-to-video sequel might not be able to compete with the original masterpiece,
16:02 but it still managed to give us a compelling new protagonist.
16:05 "I'm not just a princess, you know. That's only half of who I am."
16:09 The film shifts focus from King Simba to his daughter and future queen of the Pride Lands,
16:14 Kiara. Like her father before her, this lioness is headstrong and rebellious,
16:19 but brave and compassionate as well. She isn't afraid to follow her heart either,
16:23 falling in love with a banished lion named Kovu despite his connection to Scar.
16:28 "I've never done this before." "Really? My father and I used to do this all the time.
16:34 He says all the great kings of the past are up there."
16:40 Most importantly, she exemplifies the makings of a strong ruler,
16:43 using peace and logic to bring two feuding families together.
16:47 "A wise king once told me, 'We are one.' I didn't understand him then. Now I do."
16:56 Since making her debut, Kiara's circle of life has continued in the Disney animated
17:00 series The Lion Guard. "I was nervous about ruling
17:03 the Pride Lands at first too." "I'm not nervous. Well, maybe a little."
17:09 Number 16. Franny Robinson - Meet the Robinsons
17:13 "Surely that is not the best you can do."
17:16 Compared to some other members of the wacky Robinson family, Franny is fairly level-headed
17:21 and responsible. At the same time though, she's still colorful, creative, and crazy in all the
17:27 right ways. "Your words do not threaten me, brother." "Then enough words. Now the real battle begins."
17:38 With a passion for music, this pioneering woman conducts a choir of jazzy frogs.
17:43 In addition to being an innovative musician and master of martial arts,
17:59 she's also a loving, nurturing parent. She's not only affectionate towards her own son Wilbur,
18:04 but will welcome any child in need with open arms. A mother who knows best, Franny is always right.
18:11 Even when she's wrong. "Just a little tip for the future. I am always right. Even when I'm wrong,
18:18 I'm right." Number 15. Chicha - The Emperor's New Groove
18:24 "I gotta go wash something." Pacha's very pregnant wife, Chicha could have been a pretty straightforward,
18:29 forgettable character. Yet the film actually develops her into someone incredibly likable.
18:35 "Okay everybody, move aside. Lady with a baby coming through." The glue that holds her family
18:40 together, Chicha is caring, supportive, and typically the smartest person in the room.
18:45 "He is the emperor. I'm sure he's busy." "No, no, no, no. Emperor or no emperor,
18:49 it's called common courtesy." She knows how to resolve almost any problem while still maintaining
18:54 a calm demeanor and sense of humor. "What do you mean the door is stuck? Try jiggling the handle."
19:00 "There is no handle in here." "There's not?" "Are you sure?" "All right, I've had enough of this.
19:06 Tell us where the talking llama is and we'll burn your house to the ground." Even when the
19:10 diabolical Yzma threatens to burn her house down, Chicha easily takes control of the situation,
19:16 with some help from her hyper children. And remember, she won't think twice about smashing
19:21 your face in with a frying pan. "Hi there." "Um, that was him." "Whoops." Number 14. Sadness.
19:29 Inside out. "Wait, Joy, you could get lost in there." "Think positive." "Okay, I'm positive
19:36 you will get lost in there." Although she seems like a one-note killjoy at first, sadness proves
19:42 that feelings can have many different layers. After 11-year-old Riley moves from Minnesota
19:47 to San Francisco, Joy attempts to keep her spirits high while keeping sadness at bay. However,
19:52 it eventually becomes clear that sadness is an essential part of being human. "I'm too sad to
19:58 walk. Just give me a few hours." Everybody has to deal with disappointment, loss, and change
20:05 on occasion. Sometimes we need to cry in order to move forward. "Crying helps me slow down and
20:10 obsess over the weight of life's problems." When sadness finally takes control of Riley's console,
20:16 it's equally tear-jerking and uplifting, amounting to a happy ending. Sadness thus emerges as an
20:23 unsung hero in one of Pixar's most emotional movies to date. "I can't, Joy." "Yes, you can.
20:28 Riley needs you." Number 13. Maid Marian. Robin Hood. "Please, sire, I beg of you to spare his
20:38 life. Please have mercy." We were tempted to go with the plucky lady-in-waiting Lady Cluck,
20:44 but we really can't talk about Maid Marian enough. Aside from being a humanoid,
20:49 Maid Marian stands out from other Disney heroines for several reasons. For starters,
20:54 she doesn't fall in love with a prince. "Marian, my love, will you marry me?" "Oh,
20:58 darling, I thought you'd never ask me." But an outlaw who robs from the rich. Marian and Robin
21:03 Hood don't follow the love-at-first-sight trope either, as they actually formed a strong connection
21:08 during their youth. While they are separated for an extended period, "Oh, Robin, you're so brave
21:15 and impetuous." Marian still holds a torch for Robin, and sees all the good he's doing for the
21:20 poor people of Nottingham. When Robin faces execution, she pleads with the dastardly Prince
21:25 John to spare his life and is eventually reunited with her true love. Playful, kind,
21:30 and courageous, Maid Marian is undeniably one foxy lady. "You have six children?" "Six? Oh,
21:40 it doesn't at least." Number 12. Yzma, the Emperor's New Groove. "A few drops in his drink,
21:47 then I'll propose a toast, and he will be dead before dessert." Disney villains are usually
21:52 known for being crafty and menacing, but Yzma is a straight-up comedic baddie. That might be why
21:58 she's often overlooked, but it's also what makes her such a unique antagonist. Although she aspires
22:03 to be taken seriously, Yzma's wicked schemes always blow up in her face. "Why do we even have
22:09 that liver?" Remember when the Evil Queen used the poisoned apple on Snow White? Well, Yzma's plan
22:14 to poison Emperor Kuzco plays out more like a screwball farce, as he's accidentally turned
22:19 into a llama. Yzma never lets go of her conquest for power, but all she finds is failure and
22:25 humiliation around every corner. This makes her a great source of comedy, especially when paired
22:30 with her moronic henchman Kronk. "Take him out of town and finish the job now!" "What about dinner?"
22:38 "Kronk, this is kind of important." Number 11. Go-Go, Big Hero 6. "Welcome to the nerd lab."
22:47 Baymax may steal the show, but Big Hero 6 has no shortage of fun supporting characters. This
22:52 adrenaline junkie particularly stands out with her engineering gifts, athletic skills, and need for
22:58 speed. "That's it." You wouldn't want to get on Go-Go's bad side, or challenge her to a drag race
23:09 for that matter. As fast as she is furious, she never fails to woman up in the face of danger.
23:15 "Stop whining, woman up." Although Go-Go comes off as tough and sarcastic, she also possesses a strong
23:22 sense of morality and a kind heart. She'll loyally fight alongside any of her friends, and is always
23:28 there when somebody needs a hug. She might be a tech nerd, but that doesn't make her any less
23:32 badass. It might make her more so. "Why are we stopped?" "The light's red!" "There are no red lights in the car chase!"
23:39 Number 10. Nala, The Lion King. "Who are you?" "It's me, Simba." A childhood friend of Prince Simba,
23:50 this spirited young lioness is always up for a little exploration and mischief. Nala grows up to
23:55 become a fiercely independent resident of the Pride Lands, refusing to live under Scar's tyranny.
24:01 Boldly leaving her home to seek out help, she finds an old friend, and the rightful king. "Isn't it great?
24:08 We could get in big trouble." "I know." Nala not only pushes Simba to confront his past and accept his
24:14 responsibilities, but also opens his heart to mature romantic feelings. Returning to Pride Rock,
24:20 Nala and Simba rise above Scar, taking their place in the circle of life together.
24:25 It just goes to show that behind every great king, is a great queen. "No! Simba's gone back to
24:31 challenge his uncle to take his place as king." "Oh." Number 9. Alice, Alice in Wonderland. "If I had a world
24:40 of my own, everything would be nonsense." This treasured Disney classic is full of unforgettable
24:45 characters, such as the Mad Hatter, the Cheshire Cat, and the Queen of Hearts.
24:49 Ironically, the one character that usually gets overlooked is Alice herself. In a movie this zany
24:59 and off the wall though, the audience needs a sensible protagonist to bring them back to reality.
25:04 "It would be so nice if something would make sense for a change." Aside from being a relatable heroine,
25:10 Alice is polite, smart, and spunky. Even if her curiosity can get her into trouble,
25:15 she always stands up for herself and fights to keep her head. "When I get home I should write a
25:20 book about this place. If I, if I ever do get home." Being a daydreamer, Alice ultimately finds that
25:29 Wonderland can be a nice place to visit, but she would not want to live there. "Well I've had enough
25:34 nonsense. I'm going home. Straight home." Number eight, Jessie, Toy Story franchise.
25:42 Full of energy and joy, this yodeling cowgirl makes us all wish that toys could spring to life.
25:51 "Prospector said someday you'd come. Sweet mother of Abraham Lincoln, the prospector,
25:56 he'll wanna meet you." Although Jessie is often cheerful, she's not all fun and games. Behind her
26:02 friendly exterior, she's overcome with an overwhelming fear of abandonment. You can't
26:07 help but shed a tear after learning about Jessie's falling out with her previous owner, Emily.
26:12 "You never forget kids like Emily or Andy, but they forget you." Speaking of which, have you
26:23 heard the theory that Emily might be Andy's mom? "Andy!" Oh well, we digress. The point is that
26:28 Jessie's an incredibly empathetic character we come to truly care about. Through her friendship
26:33 with Woody, she eventually finds a new home with Andy and later with young Bonnie. She even shares
26:39 a charming romance with Buzz Lightyear. Number seven, the muses, Hercules. "That is what our
26:53 story is." "You listen to him? He's making this story sound like some Greek tragedy." "Lighten up
26:58 dude." "We'll take it from here darling." "You go girl." You wouldn't think that a gospel choir
27:06 and ancient Greece would go hand in hand. The muses somehow pull it off though, narrating our
27:11 hero's journey in style. Often found within pieces of art, these five goddesses move the
27:29 story along with catchy music and great comedic timing. They additionally help the conflicted
27:34 Megara to see the light and accept her feelings for Huncules. "Honey you mean Huncules." Believe
27:40 it or not, Disney was originally eyeing the Spice Girls to voice the muses, but their plate was too
27:45 full. Apparently they thought Spice World would be a better career move. Regardless, the muses knew
27:55 how to make Greek mythology fun and that's the gospel truth. Number six, Nani Pelikai, Lilo and
28:09 Stitch. "If you promise not to fight anymore, I promise not to yell at you. Except on special
28:16 occasions." Lilo and Stitch is largely about the relationship between Lilo and Stitch, duh. Yet
28:22 some of the most powerful moments in the film are shared between Lilo and her older sister Nani. "Did
28:27 you lose your job because of Stitch and me?" "Nah, the manager's a vampire and he wanted me to join
28:34 his legion of the undead." "I knew it." After their parents tragically die, Nani becomes Lilo's
28:41 legal guardian. Although Nani tries her best, she struggles to act a single parent while also
28:46 maintaining a steady job. The fact that a stern social worker is constantly on her back doesn't
28:51 help. "I am the one they call when things go wrong and things have indeed gone wrong." Despite
29:02 her frustration, Nani loves Lilo more than anything and will do whatever it takes to keep
29:07 her family together. Even if you took the lovable Stitch out of the equation, this film still could
29:12 have worked as a relatable, poignant story about Ohana. "Ohana means family. Family means nobody
29:19 gets left behind." Number five, Princess Alonwe, The Black Cauldron. "I'm Princess Alonwe. Are you
29:26 a lord or a warrior?" Alonwe holds the princess title, but she's never been marketed alongside
29:33 Snow White, Cinderella, or the Magic Kingdom's other royal residents. This is largely because
29:38 The Black Cauldron wasn't a success upon release. Since the film has developed a devoted following
29:44 over the years though, Disney should really invite Alonwe to their most exclusive club.
29:48 "You are somebody. You must believe in yourself. I believe in you." Adventurous and flucky,
29:58 Alonwe demonstrated that princesses could be more than damsels in distress. "What does a girl know
30:03 about swords anyway?" "Girl? Girl? If it weren't for this girl, you would still be in the Horned
30:11 King's dungeon." When we first see her, she actually rescues Taron from the dreaded Horned
30:16 King's dungeon. "Well, you'd better stay close to me or you'll get lost." An active heroine who
30:21 takes charge, Alonwe arguably paved the way for the likes of Ariel and Belle, marking a significant
30:27 turning point for Disney princesses that shouldn't be ignored. "Well, I got us out of the castle,
30:32 didn't I?" "Phew, I'd say it was the sword's magic." Number four, Jane Porter, Tarzan. "Now,
30:39 stay away from me like a very good wild man." At first glance, Jane might seem like a typical
30:44 damsel in distress. Granted, this English lady does need to be rescued by Tarzan upon first
30:50 arriving in the jungle. Seeing how Jane is out of her usual environment, though, it makes sense that
30:55 she would get off to a bumpy start. Plus, her wit and enthusiasm make Jane a damsel you'd want to
31:01 save from danger. "Put me down! Put me down! Pick me up! Pick me up! Pick me up!" Most importantly,
31:08 Jane adapts to the jungle over time, learning to swing from vines like a pro. She additionally
31:14 shows Tarzan what it means to be human. In return, the ape man shows Jane how to let out her wild
31:20 side. "I was saved by a flying wild man in a loincloth." "Loincloth? Good Lord." Number three,
31:27 Megara, Hercules. "Is Wonder Boy here for real?" "What are you talking about? Of course he's real."
31:33 In many respects, Disney's interpretation of Hercules is a lot like Superman. So, it's only
31:38 fitting that Herc's love interest would possess all of Lois Lane's spunk and sarcasm. "I'm a
31:43 damsel. I'm in distress. I can handle this. Have a nice day." Megara, or Meg for short,
31:50 we're friends, gives up on romance after an ex-boyfriend leaves her heartbroken. While she's
31:56 reluctant to admit her true feelings for Herc at first, the muses help Meg to accept the fact
32:01 that she's in love. "No chance! No way! I won't say it! No, no! Yes, who? Yes, I! Why deny it? Uh-oh!"
32:10 Due to her contract with the Lord of the Underworld, Meg is forced to stab her hero in
32:15 the back. Through sacrifice and bravery, though, she finds redemption and becomes a true hero in
32:21 her own right. "Wonder Boy, what? Why did you?" "People always do crazy things when they're in love."
32:32 Number two, Esmeralda, the Hunchback of Notre Dame. "Esmeralda." "Shh, you'll hide here until
32:39 you're strong enough to move." Esmeralda is one of Disney's most exquisitely drawn female
32:44 characters, but it's what's on the inside that makes her such a compelling person.
32:48 Seeing the value of inner beauty, this dancer stands up for the deformed Quasimodo while
32:53 everyone else mocks and shames him. "The only fool I see is you!" Although she's had her fair
33:01 share of run-ins with the law, Esmeralda knows how to get herself out of trouble with a smile.
33:06 Even when she finds herself in a seemingly hopeless situation, this rebellious woman will
33:11 still hold her head high and accept fate with dignity, showing the lonely Hunchback what a
33:16 man is really made of. Esmeralda is an alluring free spirit, an inspiring role model, and a truly
33:23 underappreciated Disney heroine. "Wow, you're quite an acrobat." "Thank you." Before we unveil our top
33:29 pick, here are a few honorable mentions. Olivia Flaversham, the Great Mouse Detective. This young
33:35 mouse goes through more than she's given credit for. "Just wait, that was smarter than you. He's
33:41 going to put you in jail. He's not afraid of a big, old, ugly rat like you." Honey Lemon,
33:49 Big Hero 6. An iconic, intelligent, yet oft-ignored optimist. "Ta-da! It's pretty great, huh?" "So
33:58 pink." "Here's the best part." "Whoa." "I know, right? Chemical metal embrittlement." Sarah Hawkins,
34:10 Treasure Planet. A single mother who has more than earned her moment. "It's been hard enough
34:14 keeping this place afloat by myself without you going-" "Mom, it's no big deal. There was nobody
34:18 around. Those cops just won't get off my..." "Forget it." Blue Fairy, Pinocchio. We know
34:27 she doesn't grant wishes for attention, but we still think she could use a bit more of it.
34:31 "We'll be good, won't we?" "Very well. But this is the last time I can help you."
34:37 Disgust, Inside Out. We're disgusted by the lack of love towards this hysterically relatable
34:42 emotion. She basically keeps Riley from being poisoned, physically and socially. "That is not
34:48 brightly colored or shaped like a dinosaur. Hold on, guys. It's broccoli! Yes!" "Well,
34:55 I just saved our lives. Yeah, you're welcome." Before we continue, be sure to subscribe to our
35:00 channel and ring the bell to get notified about our latest videos. You have the option to be
35:05 notified for occasional videos or all of them. If you're on your phone, make sure you go into
35:11 your settings and switch on notifications. Number 1. Grandmother Fah, Mulan. "Great. She
35:18 brings home a sword. If you ask me, she should have brought home a man." "Excuse me." Who
35:22 wouldn't want this lively, outspoken grandma as a member of the family? With a lucky cricket by her
35:28 side, Grandmother Fah lives her life without fear. She'll walk across a busy street with her eyes
35:33 closed and come out completely unharmed. "Yep, this cricket's a lucky one!" Despite her smart,
35:44 alicky nature, she genuinely cares about her family, particularly granddaughter Mulan. "You're
35:51 ready." "Not yet. An apple for serenity, a pendant for balance." When Mulan disguises herself as a
36:00 man and heads off to war, Grandmother Fah prays to the ancestors to look after her. Watching this
36:05 spirited old lady, we can see where Mulan gets much of her independence. Now where's her spinoff
36:11 movie? "Woo! Sign me up for the next war!" Which of these characters do you think deserves a bigger
36:17 moment in the spotlight? Let us know in the comments. "Is this an interrogation?" "I believe
36:22 it's called an introduction." Do you agree with our picks? Check out this other recent clip from
36:27 Ms. Mojo and be sure to subscribe and ring the bell to be notified about our latest videos.