Pocahontas

Pocahontas has built a real following in Australia on Disney Plus, and in the US on Disney Plus among viewers who do not usually seek out animation. The runtime earns every minute, with nothing here that feels like padding. A 7/10 rating says what the writing already makes obvious: this one works. Irene Bedard's voice work is a big part of what makes it distinctive. Available now on Disney Plus — press play and find out why people keep recommending it.

There is a reason Pocahontas keeps coming up in conversation. Visually distinctive and narratively ambitious, Pocahontas operates well above the genre average. Pocahontas, daughter of a Native American tribe chief, falls in love with an English soldier as colonists invade 17th century Virginia. Irene Bedard and Mel Gibson bring more to it than the format typically demands. It hit screens in 1995. The visual gags in Pocahontas reward close attention without ever depending on it. There is real craft here, even in the moments that do not fully land.

If you have been sleeping on Pocahontas because of the format, the format is not the issue here. If you have run out of similar titles to watch, this is a strong next pick. Best experienced as a single, sustained watch from start to finish. The writing operates at a level the format's reputation does not fully prepare you for. Adult animation that actually works for adults.