StrawPoll

The Most Successful Disney Franchise, Ranked

Choose the franchise you think is the most successful!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 5, 2024 06:57
Deciding on a movie for family night can often lead to discussions about which Disney franchise is the best. With many series enchanting audiences over the years, each bringing its own unique flavor of magic and adventure, it's a topic that spans generations and tastes. By ranking these franchises, not only can fans see how their favorites fare, but new viewers can get recommendations based on popular opinion. On this site, your votes help shape the live rankings, giving a current view of which franchises resonate the most with audiences. Whether you're a lifelong fan or just discovering the joys of Disney movies, your input is crucial. This dynamic listing is fueled by community engagement, making it a fun and interactive way for everyone to share their passion for Disney's storied franchises.

What Is the Most Successful Disney Franchise?

  1. 1
    66
    votes

    Marvel Cinematic Universe

    Kevin Feige
    The MCU has become one of the most successful movie franchises of all time, grossing over $22 billion worldwide. The franchise's success is largely attributed to its interconnected storyline, beloved characters, and impressive special effects.
    The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is a highly popular and expansive franchise of superhero films and television shows based on characters from Marvel Comics. It is a shared universe where multiple films and series are interconnected, allowing for cohesive storytelling and character crossovers. The MCU has gained a massive following worldwide and has become a cultural phenomenon.
    • First Film Release: Iron Man (2008)
    • Number of Films: Over 20 (and counting)
    • Total Box Office Revenue: Over $22 billion
    • Highest-Grossing Film: Avengers: Endgame
    • Longest Film: Avengers: Endgame (181 minutes)
    Marvel Cinematic Universe in other rankings
  3. 2
    45
    votes
    Star Wars
    Mirko Toller · CC BY 2.0

    Star Wars

    George Lucas
    The Star Wars franchise has been a cultural phenomenon since the release of the first movie in 1977. It has since expanded into books, comics, TV shows, and video games. The franchise has grossed over $10 billion in box office revenue and has a dedicated fanbase around the world.
    Star Wars is an iconic and highly recognized sci-fi film franchise created by George Lucas. The franchise features a collection of distinctive ringtones that have become popular over the years. These ringtones capture the essence of the Star Wars universe and are loved by fans worldwide.
    • Title: Star Wars
    • Genre: Sci-fi
    • Release Year: 1977
    • Film Series: Star Wars saga
    • Theme Music Composer: John Williams
    Star Wars in other rankings
  4. 3
    22
    votes
    Pixar Animation Studios
    Coolcaesar at the English Wikipedia · CC BY-SA 3.0

    Pixar Animation Studios

    Pixar has produced some of the most beloved animated movies of all time, including Toy Story, Finding Nemo, and The Incredibles. The studio has won numerous awards and has grossed over $14 billion at the box office.
    Pixar Animation Studios is one of the most successful animation studios in the world, renowned for its groundbreaking storytelling and stunning visual effects. It has produced a vast array of highly acclaimed animated feature films that have captivated audiences of all ages.
    • Year Founded: 1986
    • Location: Emeryville, California, United States
    • Parent Company: The Walt Disney Company
    • First Feature Film: Toy Story (1995)
    • Academy Awards: Won 15 Academy Awards, including multiple Best Animated Feature wins
  5. 4
    16
    votes
    Disney Princesses
    mydisneyadventures · CC BY 2.0

    Disney Princesses

    The Walt Disney Company
    The Disney Princess franchise includes iconic characters like Cinderella, Snow White, and Ariel. The franchise has generated billions of dollars in merchandise sales and has become a staple of children's entertainment.
    Disney Princesses is a popular costume theme where individuals dress up as iconic princess characters from Disney movies. It is a beloved and timeless choice for people of all ages, particularly during Halloween or costume parties. The costumes typically include elaborate dresses, accessories, and hairstyle imitating the specific Disney princess. People can choose to portray classic princesses like Cinderella, Snow White, and Ariel, or newer additions like Elsa from Frozen or Moana. The creator of Disney Princesses is The Walt Disney Company, an entertainment conglomerate known for creating and popularizing these beloved animated characters.
    • Costume options: Various options to depict different Disney princesses
    • Accessories: Includes accessories like tiaras, wands, gloves, and jewelry
    • Dress style: Elaborate long gowns with unique designs and detailing
    • Characters: Princesses like Cinderella, Snow White, Ariel, Belle, Elsa, Anna, and more
    • Age range: Suitable for all age groups
    Disney Princesses in other rankings
  6. 5
    13
    votes

    Disney Channel Original Movies

    The Walt Disney Company
    The DCOM franchise includes popular movies like High School Musical, Camp Rock, and Descendants. The movies have become a cultural phenomenon, attracting millions of viewers and spawning merchandise lines.
    Disney Channel Original Movies (DCOM) is a franchise of television movies that are produced and aired by the Disney Channel. These movies are targeted specifically for a younger audience and have become immensely popular over the years.
    • First Movie: Under Wraps (1997)
    • Total Number of Movies: Over 100
    • Genre: Various genres including comedy, drama, musical, and fantasy
    • Average Length: Around 90 minutes
    • Launch Platform: Disney Channel
  7. 6
    11
    votes

    Frozen

    Frozen is one of the most successful Disney movies of all time, grossing over $1.2 billion at the box office. The movie's success has led to a sequel, merchandise lines, and a Broadway musical.
    Frozen is a Disney animated musical fantasy film that tells the story of two royal sisters, Elsa and Anna, in the kingdom of Arendelle. Elsa possesses magical ice and snow powers, but after accidentally causing eternal winter, she isolates herself, leaving Anna to embark on a journey to find her and save the kingdom.
    • Release Date: November 27, 2013
    • Genre: Animated musical fantasy
    • Directors: Chris Buck, Jennifer Lee
    • Writers: Jennifer Lee (story and screenplay), Hans Christian Andersen (inspired by)
    • Music: Kristen Anderson-Lopez, Robert Lopez
  8. 7
    9
    votes
    Pirates of the Caribbean
    The Walt Disney Company · Public domain

    Pirates of the Caribbean

    The Pirates of the Caribbean franchise has grossed over $4.5 billion at the box office and has become a popular attraction at Disney parks around the world. Johnny Depp's portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow has become iconic.
    Pirates of the Caribbean is a dark ride attraction at Disneyland Park. It takes riders on a thrilling journey through an immersive pirate-themed environment. Based on the Pirates of the Caribbean film series, the attraction features an elaborate storyline and detailed scenes that captivate visitors of all ages. The ride showcases a mix of animatronic figures, special effects, and audio-visual elements to create a truly immersive experience.
    • Location: Disneyland Park, Anaheim, California, United States
    • Opened: March 18, 1967
    • Ride Duration: Approximately 15 minutes
    • Type: Dark Ride
    • Theme: Pirates
  9. 8
    3
    votes

    The Lion King

    The Lion King is one of the most beloved Disney movies of all time, grossing over $1 billion at the box office. The movie has since been adapted into a successful Broadway musical, a live-action movie, and multiple video games.
    The Lion King is an animated musical film produced by Walt Disney Feature Animation and released by Walt Disney Pictures in 1994. It tells the story of a young lion prince named Simba, who must overcome various challenges to claim his rightful place as the king of the Pride Lands. The film incorporates themes of friendship, family, and the responsibilities of leadership.
    • Release Year: 1994
    • Animation Style: Traditional Hand-drawn
    • Running Time: approximately 88 minutes
    • Music by: Hans Zimmer, Elton John, Tim Rice
    • Box Office Revenue: $968.5 million worldwide
    The Lion King in other rankings
  10. 9
    5
    votes

    Toy Story

    The Toy Story franchise has become a beloved part of pop culture, with its iconic characters and heartwarming storylines. The movies have grossed over $3 billion at the box office and have won numerous awards.
    Toy Story is a beloved Disney movie that takes us into the imaginative world of toys when humans are not around. The story revolves around the secret life of toys and their adventures. It follows the journey of Woody, a pull-string cowboy doll, who becomes threatened by the arrival of Buzz Lightyear, a space ranger action figure, as their rivalry evolves into an unexpected friendship. Together, they navigate through numerous obstacles to find a way back to their owner. With its heartwarming story, memorable characters, and groundbreaking animation, Toy Story is a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of millions across generations.
    • Release Date: November 22, 1995
    • Running Time: 81 minutes
    • Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy
    • Director: John Lasseter
    • Writers: John Lasseter, Pete Docter, Andrew Stanton, Joe Ranft, Joss Whedon
    Toy Story in other rankings
  11. 10
    8
    votes
    Disney Parks
    Jrobertiko · CC BY-SA 3.0

    Disney Parks

    The Disney Parks franchise includes popular attractions like Disneyland, Walt Disney World, and Disney Cruise Line. The parks have become a vacation destination for millions of people around the world and generate billions of dollars in revenue for the company.
    Disney Parks in other rankings

Missing your favorite franchise?

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Ranking factors for successful franchise

  1. Global Box Office Revenue
    The amount of money earned by the franchise's movies in theaters worldwide is a key indicator of success.
  2. Merchandise Sales
    The amount of money generated through the sale of merchandise, such as toys, clothing, and other consumer products.
  3. Brand Recognition
    How well-known and recognizable the franchise is across generations.
  4. Critical and Commercial Success
    The critical reception of the movies and their overall success at the box office are important factors too.
  5. Cultural Impact
    How the franchise has influenced popular culture and society.
  6. Longevity
    The franchise's ability to sustain popularity and remain relevant over time.
  7. Spin-offs and Adaptations
    The success of spin-off movies, TV shows, and other adaptations tied to the franchise.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most successful Disney franchise. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Franchise is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 2950 views
  • 199 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Franchise once every 24 hours. The rank of each Franchise is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

Categories

More information on most successful disney franchise

Disney has been a household name for generations and has been responsible for creating some of the most beloved characters and stories in entertainment history. The Disney brand has expanded beyond just movies and TV shows, with theme parks, merchandise, and even Broadway productions. When it comes to their franchises, Disney has produced numerous successful ones over the years, with each one bringing its own unique magic to audiences around the world. From the classic fairy tales of Snow White and Cinderella to the adventures of Buzz Lightyear and Lightning McQueen, Disney franchises have captured the hearts of fans of all ages. So, what is the most successful Disney franchise? Let's dive in and find out.

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