Frozen has the snow, the songs and the unforgettable characters, but its biggest strength is the bond between Anna and Elsa. One sister wants to bring Elsa back into the world; the other is afraid that her powers will hurt the people she loves. Their story turns a classic fairy-tale setting into a warm, funny adventure about family, acceptance and learning to be yourself.

If you’re looking for another film with that combination of fantasy and feeling, this countdown has a range of choices. You’ll find royal adventures, magical curses, big musical numbers and heroines who are determined to make their own choices. Some of these films echo Frozen through sisterly or family relationships; others share its wintry magic, sweeping animation or sense that love can change a life.

The list counts down from Beauty and the Beast to Tangled. Along the way, it includes classics such as The Little Mermaid and Anastasia, along with modern adventures like Raya and the Last Dragon and Moana. Each film has its own world and style, but all offer a little of the wonder that makes Frozen such a rewarding rewatch.

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10. Beauty and the Beast (1991)

Belle lives in a small French village but dreams of finding a life beyond its familiar routines. When her father is imprisoned in an enchanted castle, she offers to take his place. The castle’s master is a Beast, and its staff have been transformed into household objects. Belle gradually discovers that there is more to the Beast than his frightening appearance—and that the curse can only be broken if he learns to love and be loved in return.

The film shares Frozen’s interest in looking past appearances and finding the person underneath fear and isolation. Elsa hides her powers because she worries they make her dangerous; the Beast has been turned into someone others fear. Both characters need room to be understood, and both stories show how compassion can change the way people see themselves.

Belle’s curiosity and love of books make her a strong, memorable heroine. She wants adventure, but she’s also thoughtful and brave enough to risk her freedom for her father. The film’s enchanted castle is full of personality, from Lumière and Cogsworth to Mrs. Potts, and its songs help carry the story from its playful opening to its sweeping romantic moments.

For Frozen fans, this is a natural choice if you enjoy fairy-tale settings, memorable songs and stories about learning to see beyond a first impression. Its emotional heart is different from the sisterly bond at the centre of Frozen, but it similarly treats love as patience, understanding and change. In the UK, the 1991 animated film is currently listed on Disney+. Check current UK availability (https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/beauty-and-the-beast).

9. The Little Mermaid (1989)

Ariel is a mermaid princess who longs to explore the human world. She collects objects from the surface and dreams of a life beyond the sea. When she rescues Prince Eric from a shipwreck, her curiosity turns into a determination to meet him again. Ariel makes a dangerous bargain with the sea witch Ursula, trading her voice for a chance to live on land.

The sense of longing connects The Little Mermaid to Frozen. Elsa wants to stop hiding from the world, while Ariel wants to discover one she has only glimpsed from a distance. Both heroines have to confront the risks of following a powerful desire, and each story gives its young protagonist a world that feels vivid and full of possibility.

Ariel is impulsive, adventurous and curious, while Ursula makes an unforgettable villain with her theatrical confidence and sharp humour. The songs are a major part of the film’s enduring appeal. “Part of Your World” captures Ariel’s yearning; “Under the Sea” turns the ocean into a joyful musical celebration. The animation has a hand-drawn warmth that gives the underwater scenes their own visual magic.

If your favourite part of Frozen is the way music makes the characters’ feelings impossible to ignore, The Little Mermaid is a must-watch. It’s a bright, romantic adventure with a heroine who is willing to take a chance on the life she wants. In the UK, the 1989 animated film is currently listed on Disney+, with digital rental and purchase options also available. See current UK listings (https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/the-little-mermaid).

For more princess stories, explore That Love Podcast’s ranking of Disney princesses (https://www.thatlovepodcast.com/post/best-disney-princesses-of-all-time-ranked) and our guide to the best Disney soundtracks (https://www.thatlovepodcast.com/post/ranking-the-most-memorable-disney-soundtracks-of-all-time). If you’d like to connect your brand with our readers and listeners, learn about advertising with us (https://www.thatlovepodcast.com/advertise-with-us).

8. Anastasia (1997)

Anya is an orphan living in Russia who has only fragmentary memories of her childhood. Hoping to learn who she is, she travels to Paris with two charming con men who plan to present her as the missing Grand Duchess Anastasia and claim a reward. As Anya’s memories return, the journey becomes more than a scheme: she begins to wonder whether she really might be the princess she has been pretending to be.

Like Frozen, Anastasia is an animated musical with a heroine whose identity is at the centre of the story. Anya is trying to work out where she belongs, and her journey brings adventure, romance and a little mystery. The film’s snowy settings and winter atmosphere will also appeal to viewers who love Frozen’s icy landscapes, though the story’s tone is more romantic and historical.

Meg Ryan voices Anya, with John Cusack as the con man Dimitri and Christopher Lloyd as the villainous Rasputin. The songs give the film a classic musical sweep, especially “Once Upon a December,” which turns Anya’s uncertain memories into a hauntingly beautiful scene. The chemistry between Anya and Dimitri adds lightness to the more dramatic parts of the story.

The real history behind the film is heavily reimagined, so it’s best approached as a fantasy rather than a historical account. As a fairy-tale adventure, though, it has a memorable heroine, a journey towards self-discovery and a romantic score that lingers. In the UK, Anastasia is currently listed on Disney+, with rental and purchase options through digital stores. Check current UK streaming options (https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/anastasia-1997).

7. Wish (2023)

Asha lives in the kingdom of Rosas, where people entrust their wishes to the powerful King Magnifico. When she discovers that he isn’t keeping those wishes safe in the way she believed, Asha asks the stars for help. A little star answers her call, and together they set out to restore hope and challenge the king’s control.

Wish is a Disney fairy tale about a young woman who decides that the future of her community should not rest in the hands of one person. Asha’s determination echoes the bravery Anna shows when she sets out to reach Elsa, while the magical star brings a playful companion into the adventure. The story mixes familiar fairy-tale ingredients with a modern question about who gets to decide which dreams are worth pursuing.

Ariana DeBose voices Asha, with Chris Pine as Magnifico. The film’s look includes visual nods to Disney’s animation history, while its songs help give Asha’s journey a classic musical shape. “This Wish” works as her declaration that she won’t accept a future chosen for her. The story has plenty of bright comedy, but its conflict gives the film a little more tension than a simple wish-fulfilment tale.

If you like Frozen’s mix of fantasy, music and a heroine making difficult choices, Wish is an easy pick. It’s also a good option for a family viewing night when you’re in the mood for a contemporary fairy tale with a hopeful ending. In the UK, Wish is currently listed on Disney+, with rental and purchase options available through major digital platforms. See the latest UK listings (https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/wish-2023).

6. Raya and the Last Dragon (2021)

Raya lives in Kumandra, a land that was once united by a close bond between people and dragons. After a dark force threatens the kingdom, the dragons sacrifice themselves to save humanity, but the land is eventually divided into rival regions. When the danger returns, Raya searches for Sisu, the last dragon, hoping to restore what was lost.

The film offers a more action-heavy adventure than Frozen, but the two share a focus on young women taking responsibility for the people around them. Raya is brave and capable, yet she has learned to be wary after the world’s divisions have hurt her family. Sisu, voiced by Awkwafina, is more optimistic and funny. Their contrasting personalities give the story a lively rhythm as they travel through Kumandra.

Raya’s journey is about more than finding a dragon. She has to decide whether she can trust people again, even when experience has taught her to protect herself. That emotional conflict gives the action a purpose. The film’s fantasy world draws on a range of Southeast Asian influences, with distinct landscapes and communities that make each stop along the journey feel different.

For viewers who love the grand scale of Frozen and want a faster-paced quest, Raya and the Last Dragon is an exciting choice. Its story of mending divisions also gives the adventure a meaningful heart. In the UK, the film is currently available on Disney+. Check current streaming options (https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/raya-and-the-last-dragon).

If you’re enjoying the countdown, listen to more That Love Podcast episodes (https://www.thatlovepodcast.com/episodes). Our conversations cover film, television, relationships and culture.

5. The Princess and the Frog (2009)

Tiana works hard as a waitress in New Orleans and dreams of opening her own restaurant. When she meets Prince Naveen, a charming but careless royal who has been turned into a frog, a kiss leads to an unexpected problem: Tiana becomes a frog too. Together, they travel through the bayou in search of a way to become human again, meeting new friends and discovering what they truly want along the way.

Like Anna and Elsa, Tiana and Naveen have to figure out how to work with someone whose personality is very different from their own. Tiana is practical and determined, while Naveen has spent more time enjoying life than planning for it. Their adventure gives both characters a chance to grow. Tiana learns that ambition doesn’t have to crowd out connection, while Naveen discovers the value of responsibility.

The film’s New Orleans setting gives it a rich atmosphere, from the music to the colourful bayou sequences. Anika Noni Rose voices Tiana, and Bruno Campos voices Naveen. The songs range from lively jazz to reflective ballads, with Dr. Facilier’s show-stopping villain number adding a touch of supernatural menace.

The Princess and the Frog is a lovely choice if you enjoy Frozen’s musical fantasy and its message that love and courage can change a life. Tiana also offers a different kind of heroine: she has a clear dream and works steadily towards it, even when a magical detour changes everything. In the UK, the film is currently listed on Disney+. Check current UK availability (https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/the-princess-and-the-frog).

4. Brave (2012)

Merida is a Scottish princess, a gifted archer and a young woman who does not want her future decided for her. Her mother, Queen Elinor, expects her to follow royal traditions and accept a formal match. Merida’s attempt to change her mother’s mind leads to a spell with unexpected consequences, forcing the two to find a way to repair their relationship before it’s too late.

The strongest link to Frozen is the central family bond. Anna and Elsa love each other but struggle to understand one another; Merida and Elinor have the same problem, even though their conflict is between a mother and daughter. Merida resents being controlled, while Elinor believes she is preparing her daughter for the responsibilities of the crown. Their journey asks both of them to listen and see the other’s point of view.

The Scottish Highlands give the film a dramatic, atmospheric setting. Merida’s archery makes her a memorable action heroine, but the story’s emotional strength comes from her relationship with Elinor. Kelly Macdonald voices Merida, and Emma Thompson brings warmth and authority to the queen. The humour, particularly from Merida’s father Fergus and her mischievous triplet brothers, helps balance the more serious family scenes.

If you love Frozen for its complicated family relationships and magical winter setting, Brave offers another heartfelt animated adventure—this time with forests, bears and a fiercely independent archer. In the UK, it is currently listed on Disney+, with rental and purchase options available through digital stores. See current UK listings (https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/brave).

For more Disney film recommendations, read our guide to the evolution of Disney animation (https://www.thatlovepodcast.com/post/the-evolution-of-disney-animation-from-snow-white-to-encanto) and 12 Disney movie-night picks (https://www.thatlovepodcast.com/post/12-disney-movie-nights-for-mothers-day-viewing-guide). If our articles have helped you find your next watch, support our independent creators (https://www.thatlovepodcast.com/donate).

3. Encanto (2021)

The Madrigals are an extraordinary family. Everyone except Mirabel has received a magical gift, and each gift helps the community in a different way. When the family’s magic starts to weaken, Mirabel tries to understand what is happening and how to protect the home and people she loves. Her search reveals that the family’s problems are not only magical; they’re tied to expectations and the pressure to appear perfect.

The family focus makes Encanto a strong follow-up for Frozen. The earlier film explores the relationship between two sisters; Encanto expands that idea to a whole family, with Mirabel navigating her place among sisters, cousins and relatives who all have different roles. Like Anna, she refuses to give up when someone she loves is in trouble. Like Elsa, other family members are carrying pressures they find hard to talk about.

The songs are central to how the film tells its story. “Surface Pressure” captures the weight Luisa feels from being relied on, while “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” turns family secrets into a memorable musical number. Stephanie Beatriz gives Mirabel warmth and determination, and the ensemble cast helps each member of the Madrigal family feel distinct.

The film’s vibrant Colombian setting and magical Casita create a world that is full of motion and personality. More than anything, Encanto is a story about belonging even when you don’t fit the role people have assigned to you. That theme is a natural match for Frozen fans, and the emotional payoff is just as rooted in family. In the UK, Encanto is currently available on Disney+. Check current streaming availability (https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/encanto).

2. Moana (2016)

Moana is the daughter of a village chief, but she feels drawn to the ocean beyond the reef. When a blight threatens her island, she sails out to find the demigod Maui and restore the heart of Te Fiti. It’s a dangerous voyage, and the sea doesn’t make the journey easy. Moana has to learn how to navigate the world beyond home—and discover what kind of leader she wants to be.

Like Anna, Moana sets out on a journey because the people she loves need her. Both heroines are brave, curious and sometimes impulsive, but their stories are also about identity. Moana is not simply choosing between her home and the ocean; she is finding a way to honour both. That emotional balance gives the adventure real purpose.

Auli‘i Cravalho voices Moana, and Dwayne Johnson brings comic swagger to Maui. Their relationship develops through bickering, teamwork and growing respect. The film’s ocean animation is sweeping and expressive, and the songs make Moana’s hopes and doubts easy to feel. “How Far I’ll Go” captures the pull between the familiar life she knows and the possibility of becoming something more.

For Frozen fans, Moana offers another heroine-led musical adventure with an unforgettable setting, a strong family connection and a journey towards self-confidence. Its world is warmer and more oceanic than Arendelle, but it shares the same sense of wonder. In the UK, the film is currently listed on Disney+. Check current UK viewing options (https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/moana).

1. Tangled (2010)

Rapunzel has spent her whole life in a tower, where Mother Gothel insists that the outside world is too dangerous. Rapunzel dreams of seeing the floating lanterns that appear in the sky each year on her birthday. When the thief Flynn Rider hides in her tower, she makes a deal with him: he’ll take her to the lanterns, and she’ll return the stolen crown he’s carrying. Their journey becomes an adventure that changes both of their lives.

Tangled is the closest match on this list to Frozen’s blend of magic, humour, music and emotion. Rapunzel wants to understand who she is and see the wider world, much as Elsa eventually wants to stop hiding and Anna wants to reconnect with her sister. Rapunzel’s relationship with Gothel adds a different kind of family conflict, while her friendship with Flynn gives the story a lively romantic-comedy thread.

Mandy Moore voices Rapunzel, and Zachary Levi plays Flynn. Their chemistry gives the adventure much of its humour, especially as Flynn’s confidence runs into Rapunzel’s curiosity and determination. Rapunzel is creative and resourceful: she paints, reads, cooks and can use her long hair to pull herself—and other people—out of trouble. Pascal the chameleon and Maximus the horse add a pair of scene-stealing animal companions.

The lantern sequence is one of modern animation’s most memorable moments, but the film’s emotional appeal goes beyond its visuals. Rapunzel is learning to trust her instincts and build a life beyond the limits someone else has set for her. That journey makes Tangled a natural number one for fans of Frozen: it has a magical world, a heroine finding her voice and a story that balances laughter with genuine feeling.

In the UK, Tangled is currently listed on Disney+, with rental and purchase options on digital services. Check current UK listings (https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/tangled).

More Disney Adventures to Explore

If you’d like to keep the animated movie marathon going, explore these That Love Podcast guides:

• The 10 Best Disney Princesses, Ranked (https://www.thatlovepodcast.com/post/best-disney-princesses-of-all-time-ranked)

• The 10 Best Disney Soundtracks of All Time (https://www.thatlovepodcast.com/post/ranking-the-most-memorable-disney-soundtracks-of-all-time)

• The Evolution of Disney Animation (https://www.thatlovepodcast.com/post/the-evolution-of-disney-animation-from-snow-white-to-encanto)

• Top Disney+ Movies for a Cozy Winter Day (https://www.thatlovepodcast.com/post/best-disney-plus-movies-cozy-winter-day)

• The Best Family Movies of All Time (https://www.thatlovepodcast.com/post/best-family-movies-of-all-time-ranked)

For more film and television conversations, browse our podcast episodes (https://www.thatlovepodcast.com/episodes). If you’d like to introduce your business to our audience, learn about advertising with us (https://www.thatlovepodcast.com/advertise-with-us). And if our recommendations have been useful, support the podcast here (https://www.thatlovepodcast.com/donate).

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I watch first if I love Frozen?

Start with Tangled for a similar mix of animation, songs, adventure and a heroine finding her way in the world. Brave is a strong option if the family relationship between Anna and Elsa is your favourite part, while Moana offers another musical adventure about a young woman taking responsibility for her community.

Which movie on this list is most similar to Frozen?

Tangled is the closest overall match in tone and structure: both are modern animated fairy tales with magic, humour, memorable songs and a young heroine on a journey of self-discovery. Brave is the closer match if you’re looking for a story focused on family conflict.

Which films have the strongest sister or family stories?

Encanto centres on a large family whose members are struggling under different expectations. Brave focuses on a mother and daughter learning to understand one another. The Little Mermaid and Beauty and the Beast also explore family bonds as part of their heroines’ journeys.

Which movie has the best songs?

That depends on what you enjoy. The Little Mermaid and Beauty and the Beast have classic Disney musical numbers, while Encanto and Moana feature newer songs that are closely woven into the characters’ stories. Anastasia has a sweeping musical style of its own.

Are these films suitable for young children?

Many of the titles have a U classification in the UK, while some carry a PG rating. All include some peril, magic or fantasy conflict. Check the current UK classification and consider your child’s comfort with tense scenes before watching together.

Which film has the strongest heroine?

Every film gives its heroine a different kind of strength. Tiana is hardworking and ambitious, Merida is an independent archer, Raya is a determined warrior, and Moana is a thoughtful leader. Rapunzel’s creativity and curiosity make Tangled a particularly appealing choice for viewers who like heroines who solve problems in unexpected ways.

Which movie has the most wintry atmosphere?

Anastasia includes snowy settings and a wintery European journey. Beauty and the Beast has a chilly enchanted-castle atmosphere in parts, while The Little Mermaid offers a very different kind of escapism through its bright underwater world.

Is Anastasia based on a true story?

The film uses the historical mystery of Grand Duchess Anastasia as inspiration, but it is a fictional animated musical. Its story takes significant liberties with history and should be watched as a fantasy adventure rather than a historical account.

Where can I stream these movies in the UK?

Streaming catalogues change. At the time of writing, Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, Anastasia, Wish, Raya and the Last Dragon, The Princess and the Frog, Brave, Encanto, Moana and Tangled are listed on Disney+. Use the linked JustWatch pages to confirm current UK availability, rental and purchase options.

Which movie should I choose for family movie night?

Choose Tangled for comedy and adventure, Moana for a musical voyage, or Encanto for a warm story about family. If you want a classic, The Little Mermaid and Beauty and the Beast are both strong options.

More Places to Find Great Movies and TV Shows

Use JustWatch UK (https://www.justwatch.com/uk) to see where films are streaming, available to rent or available to buy. For cast information, film details and reviews, visit IMDb (https://www.imdb.com/) and Rotten Tomatoes (https://www.rottentomatoes.com/).

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