43 Best Disney Movies In Spanish Every Learner Should Watch (2024)

I've got a confession: I’m a total Disney nerd. There’s just something about that magical moment when the Disney castle appears on screen that just gets me every time. So when I was struggling to learn Spanish a few years back, I had this wild idea - why not combine my Disney obsession with language learning?

The following day, I decided to rewatch "The Lion King" for the millionth time, but with a twist: I switched it to Spanish. Let me tell you, hearing Mufasa say "Todo lo que toca la luz" instead of "Everything the light touches" was mind-blowing. Suddenly, I wasn't just watching - I was learning Spanish without even trying!

That moment changed everything. Since then, I've binge-watched practically every Disney movie in Spanish. I've picked up slang from Ernesto de la Cruz, learned love phrases from Hércules, and even mastered some Spanish expressions thanks to Mirabel. Now, I'm excited to share my top 13 Disney movies in Spanish that'll help boost your language skills too.

Trust me, once you start, you won't be able to stop!

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Why You Should Start Watching Disney Movies In Spanish

Why watch Disney movies in Spanish, you ask? Well, besides the obvious fun factor and catchy Disney songs, there are some serious language-learning perks.

  • Familiar stories: You already know the plot, so you can focus on the language.
  • Simple dialogue: Disney characters often use everyday language that's easy to grasp.
  • Catchy songs: Music helps words stick in your memory like glue.
  • Visual context: The animations provide clear cues about what's being said.
  • Cultural insights: Many Disney movies offer glimpses into Spanish-speaking cultures.
  • Wide range of accents: From Castilian Spanish to Latin American variants, you'll hear it all.

The best part? It's super practical. You don't need fancy textbooks or complicated apps. Just grab some popcorn, curl up on your couch, and press play. You can watch with Spanish audio and English subtitles, then switch to Spanish subtitles as you improve.

And if you want to take your Spanish learning to the next level, check out this Lingopie guide on learning with Disney+!

13 Best Disney Movies In Spanish

Encanto

"Encanto" took the world by storm in 2021, becoming one of Disney's most beloved recent releases. This colorful animated musical tells the story of the Madrigal family, living in a magical house in the mountains of Colombia. Each family member has a unique magical gift - except for our protagonist, Mirabel. The film's exploration of family dynamics, self-worth, and Colombian culture, paired with Lin-Manuel Miranda's catchy tunes, made it an instant hit.

43 Best Disney Movies In Spanish Every Learner Should Watch (1)

What makes "Encanto" fantastic for Spanish learners is its use of Colombian Spanish. You'll hear authentic accents and colloquialisms that'll give you a real taste of how Spanish is spoken in Colombia. Plus, the movie is packed with visual representations of Spanish words, making it easier to connect vocabulary with images.

Spanish WordEnglish TranslationContext in the Movie
EncantoCharm/EnchantmentThe magical power that blesses the family
CasitaLittle houseThe magical, sentient Madrigal home
RegaloGiftThe magical abilities each family member has
MariposaButterflySymbolizes change and Mirabel's journey
FamiliaFamilyA central theme throughout the movie

La Sirenita (The Little Mermaid)

This beloved classic tells the story of Ariel, a curious and adventurous young mermaid who dreams of life on land. When she falls in love with a human prince, Ariel makes a dangerous deal with the sea witch Ursula to become human herself.

The songs, especially "Parte de tu mundo" (Part of Your World), are excellent for practicing pronunciation and learning idiomatic expressions. The movie also features both formal royal speech and casual dialogue, giving learners exposure to different language registers. Plus, Ursula's dramatic villain songs offer a chance to hear more complex, theatrical Spanish.

Spanish WordEnglish TranslationContext in the Movie
SirenaMermaidWhat Ariel is
SuperficieSurfaceWhere Ariel longs to be
VozVoiceWhat Ariel trades for legs
TridenteTridentKing Triton's magical weapon
MarejadaTide/SwellPart of the underwater environment
Cómo Aprender Idiomas Con Canciones De Disney [Guía Para Padres]Hoy, estamos emocionados de compartir una manera simple pero sumamente efectiva de enseñar idiomas a los niños: ¡a través de canciones de Disney! Sí, lo escuchaste bien, las canciones de Disney pueden ser una valiosa herramienta para aprender idiomas. Gracias a este artículo descubrirás que los cl…Lingopie Blog en EspañolRaysa De Oliveira Buezas

Coco

"Coco" is a celebration of Mexican culture that captured hearts worldwide upon its release in 2017. This film follows Miguel, a young boy with a passion for music, as he accidentally enters the Land of the Dead during Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). His journey to uncover family secrets and pursue his dreams has resonated with audiences of all ages, making "Coco" one of Pixar's most acclaimed films.

The movie is peppered with authentic Mexican expressions and slang, giving you a genuine feel for how Spanish is spoken in Mexico. It's particularly useful for learning vocabulary related to family, music, and cultural traditions. The movie's focus on Día de los Muertos also provides a glimpse into this important Mexican holiday, offering cultural context alongside language learning.

Spanish WordEnglish TranslationContext in the Movie
RecuérdameRemember meThe title of the main song and a key theme
OfrendaOfferingThe altar where photos of deceased family members are placed
AlebrijeSpirit animalColorful Mexican folk art sculptures, brought to life in the Land of the Dead
ChamacoKid (Mexican slang)Often used to refer to Miguel
MúsicoMusicianMiguel's dream profession, central to the plot

Buscando a nemo (Finding Nemo)

This Pixar masterpiece follows the adventure of Marlin, an overprotective clownfish father, as he searches the vast ocean for his son Nemo, who has been captured by a diver.

The movie showcases various acentos (accents) as Marlin and Dory meet sea creatures from different regions, helping you tune your ear to diverse Spanish pronunciations. Dory's olvidos (forgetfulness) and juegos de palabras (wordplay) offer a fun way to grasp Spanish humor.

Spanish WordEnglish TranslationContext in the Movie
BuscarTo search/look forThe main action of the movie, as Marlin searches for Nemo
OcéanoOceanThe vast setting of the film
TortugaTurtleCrush and the other sea turtles Marlin and Dory meet
TiburónSharkBruce and his friends, who are trying not to eat fish
AventuraAdventureThe journey Marlin and Dory embark on

Vaiana (Moana)

"Vaiana" (known as "Moana" in English-speaking countries) made a splash in 2016 with its stunning animation and empowering story. This tropical adventure follows Vaiana, a spirited teenager chosen by the ocean to reunite a mystical relic with the goddess Te Fiti and save her people.

For Spanish learners, "Vaiana" offers a unique opportunity to hear Spanish in a Polynesian context. The movie uses a neutral Latin American Spanish that's clear and easy to understand, making it great for beginners. You'll pick up lots of nature-related vocabulary, as well as terms related to seafaring and Polynesian culture.

Spanish WordEnglish TranslationContext in the Movie
OcéanoOceanA central character in the movie
CorazónHeartRefers to the heart of Te Fiti
AventuraAdventureDescribes Vaiana's journey
IslaIslandThe setting for much of the movie
NaveganteNavigatorVaiana's role as she learns to sail

Los Increíbles (The Incredibles)

This Pixar hit follows the Parr family, former superheroes trying to live a quiet suburban life while hiding their powers. When Mr. Incredible is lured into a mysterious assignment, the whole family must spring into action to save the world.

Here, you'll hear a range of speaking styles, from the formal language of newscasts and government officials to the casual banter between family members. The fast-paced action scenes are great for picking up quick phrases and exclamations, while the humorous dialogue offers exposure to Spanish wordplay and jokes.

Spanish WordEnglish TranslationContext in the Movie
SuperpoderesSuperpowersThe special abilities of the Parr family
Identidad secretaSecret identityWhat the family must maintain in public
ElasticidadElasticityElastigirl's superpower
VelocidadSpeedDash's superpower
SíndromeSyndromeThe name of the movie's villain

Enredados (Tangled)

This witty and heartwarming adventure follows Rapunzel, a princess with magical long hair who's been locked in a tower her whole life. With the help of the charismatic thief Flynn Rider, she goes on a hilarious and touching journey of self-discovery.

43 Best Disney Movies In Spanish Every Learner Should Watch (4)

The charm of this movie is that the dialogue is modern and colloquial, making it perfect for picking up common phrases and expressions. You'll hear a neutral Latin American Spanish that's clear and easy to follow. The movie is particularly great for learning vocabulary related to emotions, dreams, and personal growth.

Spanish WordEnglish TranslationContext in the Movie
SueñoDreamRapunzel's desire to see the floating lanterns
TorreTowerWhere Rapunzel is kept
CabelloHairRapunzel's magical long hair
FarolLanternThe floating lanterns central to the plot
LadrónThiefRefers to Flynn Rider's initial occupation

Hércules (Hercules)

This animated feature tells the story of Hercules, son of Zeus, who must prove himself a true hero to reclaim his godhood after being turned mortal as a baby. With the help of his trusty satyr trainer Phil and love interest Megara, Hercules faces monsters, titans, and the devious Hades, god of the underworld.

In this movie, you'll encounter Spanish terms for Greek gods, mythical creatures, and heroic feats. The characters' witty dialogue, especially Hades' rapid-fire quips, provides excellent exposure to colloquial expressions and wordplay in Spanish. Plus, the movie's themes of self-discovery and heroism introduce vocabulary related to personal growth and achievement.

Spanish WordEnglish TranslationContext in the Movie
SemidiósDemigodWhat Hercules is
HéroeHeroWhat Hercules aspires to be
TitánTitanThe giant enemies Hercules must defeat
InframundoUnderworldHades' domain
DestinoDestinyThe concept Hercules struggles with throughout the film

Intensa-mente (Inside Out)

This inventive Pixar film dives into the mind of 11-year-old Riley, personifying her emotions as colorful characters: Joy (Alegría), Sadness (Tristeza), Anger (Ira), Fear (Temor), and Disgust (Asco). As Riley copes with moving to a new city, we watch her emotions navigate this challenging time.

The Spanish used in Inside Out is clear and expressive, helping you connect words with the vivid emotional displays on the screen. You'll also pick up brain-related terms and phrases about memory and thought processes.

Spanish WordEnglish TranslationContext in the Movie
AlegríaJoyThe main emotion character, always optimistic
RecuerdoMemoryThe glowing orbs that represent Riley's memories
Islas de PersonalidadPersonality IslandsRepresent different aspects of Riley's personality
Tren del PensamientoTrain of ThoughtConnects different parts of Riley's mind
OlvidoForgottenWhere old memories go to fade away

La Bella y la Bestia (Beauty and the Beast)

This timeless tale follows Belle, a bookish and independent young woman who finds herself imprisoned in a mysterious castle by a fearsome Beast. As she discovers the gentle heart beneath the Beast's rough exterior, a spell begins to unravel. With its stunning animation, unforgettable musical numbers, and themes of love and acceptance, "La Bella y la Bestia" remains a jewel in Disney's crown.

Aside from the banter between Belle and the Beast, what I personally look forward to in this movie is the side characters. Why? Well, the enchanted objects in the castle, each with their unique personalities, provide exposure to diverse speaking styles and idiomatic expressions.

Spanish WordEnglish TranslationContext in the Movie
HechizoSpellThe curse placed on the Beast and his castle
RosaRoseThe enchanted rose that measures the Beast's time
BibliotecaLibraryThe Beast's gift to Belle, reflecting her love of books
TransformaciónTransformationWhat the Beast undergoes at the end of the movie
PrejuicioPrejudiceWhat Belle and the Beast must overcome

Valiente (Brave)

This Pixar film tells the story of Merida, a skilled archer and impetuous daughter of a Scottish king. Determined to carve her own path in life, Merida defies an age-old custom, inadvertently unleashing chaos in the kingdom. The movie's themes of family, fate, and bravery, coupled with its breathtaking animation of the Scottish Highlands, made it a unique addition to the Disney-Pixar canon.

43 Best Disney Movies In Spanish Every Learner Should Watch (5)

The movie is rich in vocabulary related to family relationships, tradition, and nature. You'll also encounter many descriptive words for bravery and strength, fitting the movie's themes. The formal language used in royal proclamations contrasts nicely with Merida's more casual speech, giving you exposure to different registers of Spanish.

Spanish WordEnglish TranslationContext in the Movie
DestinoFateA central theme Merida fights against
HechizoSpellThe magic that transforms Merida's mother
ArcoBowMerida's weapon of choice
ClanClanThe different Scottish families in the kingdom
TradiciónTraditionWhat Merida struggles against and ultimately redefines

Mulán (Mulan)

This animated classic tells the story of Fa Mulan, a young woman who disguises herself as a man to take her father's place in the army. With determination, courage, and the help of her dragon sidekick Mushu, Mulan fights to save China from invading Huns.

The movie blends Chinese cultural elements with Spanish language, introducing learners to how Spanish handles concepts from other cultures. You'll encounter a wide range of vocabulary related to war, honor, and Chinese traditions. The film's musical numbers, especially "Reflejo" (Reflection), provide excellent opportunities to practice pronunciation and learn idiomatic expressions.

Spanish WordEnglish TranslationContext in the Movie
HonorHonorA central theme and motivation for Mulan
GuerreraWarriorWhat Mulan becomes
DinastíaDynastyRefers to the imperial rule in China
DeshonraDishonorWhat Mulan fears bringing to her family
AntepasadosAncestorsThe spirits Mulan and her family honor

El Rey León (The Lion King)

"El Rey León," known as "The Lion King" in English, roared into theaters in 1994 and quickly became one of Disney's most beloved classics. This powerful story follows Simba, a young lion prince, on his journey to adulthood and his destined role as king. After tragedy strikes, Simba flees his pride, only to return years later to reclaim his throne from his villainous uncle, Scar.

43 Best Disney Movies In Spanish Every Learner Should Watch (6)

The movie's African setting introduces Spanish terms for savanna animals and nature, while its focus on lion society provides vocabulary related to leadership and family dynamics. The film's iconic songs, like "El ciclo sin fin" (Circle of Life) and "Hakuna Matata," are perfect for practicing pronunciation and picking up idiomatic expressions.

Spanish WordEnglish TranslationContext in the Movie
ReinoKingdomThe Pride Lands that Simba will inherit
CicloCycleAs in "el ciclo sin fin" (the circle of life)
ResponsabilidadResponsibilityWhat Simba must learn to accept
TraiciónBetrayalScar's actions against Mufasa and Simba
OrgulloPride (also means 'pride' as in a group of lions)Both meanings are relevant in the movie

30 Disney Movies in Spanish Worth Watching

In addition to the popular 13 Disney movies for learning Spanish, there are many other Disney films that offer unique linguistic and cultural experiences. These movies not only provide entertainment but also expose learners to different Spanish accents, regional variations, and vocabulary relevant to various aspects of life.

Below, we’ve curated 30 additional Disney movies in Spanish that are excellent for language learners at various levels, categorized by level of difficulty and what specific aspect of the Spanish language can be learned from each film.

Movie TitleLevel of DifficultyWhat You’ll Learn
La Dama y el Vagabundo (Lady and the Tramp)BeginnerEveryday vocabulary, animal names, family words
Blancanieves y los Siete Enanitos (Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs)BeginnerFairy tale vocabulary, descriptive language
Aladdín (Aladdin)IntermediateMagic and fantasy vocabulary, travel-related words
El Libro de la Selva (The Jungle Book)BeginnerJungle-related terms, animal names
Zootrópolis (Zootopia)IntermediateLaw enforcement terms, animal-related language, social themes
Tarzán (Tarzan)IntermediateNature vocabulary, emotional speech
Los Tres CaballerosIntermediateExposure to Mexican and South American culture, traditional words
Peter PanBeginnerAdventure-related vocabulary, fantasy expressions
Frozen 2IntermediateEmotional language, fantasy terms, expressions of change
PocahontasIntermediateHistorical vocabulary, nature-related terms
RatatouilleIntermediateFood-related vocabulary, kitchen and restaurant terms
WALL-EIntermediateTechnology and sci-fi vocabulary, environmental terms
El Emperador y Sus Locuras (The Emperor’s New Groove)BeginnerHumor-based vocabulary, simple dialogues
El Jorobado de Notre Dame (The Hunchback of Notre Dame)AdvancedMedieval terms, complex language about morality and society
Los Aristogatos (The Aristocats)BeginnerAnimal-related terms, informal speech patterns
La Bella Durmiente (Sleeping Beauty)BeginnerFormal language, classic fairy tale speech
Atlantis: El Imperio Perdido (Atlantis: The Lost Empire)AdvancedComplex storytelling, mythological and fantasy vocabulary
Bichos (A Bug's Life)BeginnerBasic animal-related vocabulary, friendship terms
Big Hero 6IntermediateTechnology-related vocabulary, action-based language
El Planeta del Tesoro (Treasure Planet)AdvancedSci-fi terminology, adventure-related terms, complex grammar
Monstruos, S.A. (Monsters, Inc.)BeginnerWorkplace vocabulary, friendship-related language
Lilo y StitchIntermediateFamily-oriented vocabulary, Hawaiian culture with Spanish
Los Rescatadores (The Rescuers)BeginnerAdventure-related language, travel terms
Robin HoodBeginnerClassic adventure vocabulary, archery-related terms
El Caldero Mágico (The Black Cauldron)AdvancedDark fantasy vocabulary, medieval and magic-related terms
Oliver y su Pandilla (Oliver & Company)BeginnerCity-related vocabulary, animal terms
Cars 2BeginnerTravel vocabulary, competition-related terms
Los Descendientes (The Descendants)IntermediateTeen slang, contemporary cultural references
Aviones (Planes)BeginnerFlight-related vocabulary, competition-related phrases
Tierra de Osos (Brother Bear)BeginnerAnimal-related terms, emotional expressions

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How To Use Disney Movies To Learn Spanish

By combining engaging stories, catchy music, and familiar characters with Spanish dialogue, you create an immersive and enjoyable learning experience. Here are some tips to maximize your Spanish learning while enjoying your favorite Disney films:

  1. Sing Your Heart Out: Can't get those Disney tunes out of your head? Perfect! Listen to the Spanish versions on repeat. Belt them out in the shower, in the car, wherever! Psst... Lingopie Music can help you nail those lyrics and their meanings.
  2. Channel Your Inner Disney Character: Pick your favorite movie quotes and make them your own. Practice them until they roll off your tongue. Bonus points if you use them in real-life conversations!
  3. Double Up on Subtitles: Turn on both Spanish audio and subtitles. When you hit a word you don't know, take a guess before looking it up. Lingopie's got your back with dual subtitles to make this a breeze.

Stick with it, and you'll be speaking Spanish like a Disney prince or princess in no time!

Lingopie Review: 10+ Best Features For Language LearningLingopie is a language learning platform that uses the immersive experience of watching TV shows and movies with the specific goal of teaching new languages.The blog for language lovers | Lingopie.comLingopie Team

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43 Best Disney Movies In Spanish Every Learner Should Watch (2024)
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