5) The Hunchback Of Notre Dame (1996)
Disney is often darker than it’s given credit for. Dumbo after a tipple of alcohol. Bambi’s mother and her little accident. Mufasa’s spot of bother with his brother. Moments like these are scattered throughout Disney’s classic filmography, but if pushed to choose the darkest film ever made by the Magic Kingdom, it’s likely that most would choose The Hunchback of Notre Dame.
Quasimodo’s struggle to be accepted may include a few dance numbers and talking gargoyles, but themes of infanticide, lust and genocide aren’t exactly light bedtime viewing for whippersnappers under the age of ten. The Hunchback of Notre Dame was a bold attempt to combine serious issues with the levity usually associated with the studio, but the film’s balance between light and dark was inconsistent at times, detracting from the overall message of the story.
A live action version of Disney’s take on the classic tale could retain the gothic aesthetic and award-winning music, while also providing the perfect opportunity for those irritating gargoyles to be smashed once and for all. Those unhappy with the ending where Esmerelda chose the handsome soldier over the disfigured hero of the story could also be satisfied, sending out a message that those born different can still find love too.
Good job on that one by the way Disney.