1991 Hit Film Ranked Among ‘Best Movies of All Time'
In 1991, Disney released what would become one of its most iconic films that would go on to redefine animated storytelling.
Beauty and the Beast has since been ranked among the best movies of all time by Rotten Tomatoes, a testament to its enduring charm, artistry and emotional depth.
The film, based a French fairy tale called La Belle et la Bête written in 1740 by Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve, follows Belle, a young woman who finds herself in the enchanted castle of a cursed prince. As she gets to know the Beast, she begins to see beyond his frightening exterior, uncovering a story about love, transformation and acceptance. Blending romance, music and fantasy, the film quickly became a standout of Disney's animation renaissance.
Among its many memorable elements is the performance of Angela Lansbury as Mrs. Potts. Her warm, comforting voice brought a sense of heart to the film, most notably through her rendition of the title song, "Beauty and the Beast." The performance became one of the film's most iconic moments, adding emotional depth to a story already rich with feeling. Lansbury's delivery helped elevate the song into a timeless classic, reinforcing the film's central message about love and kindness.
"I remember the day we were in the recording studio with the amazing Broadway singers in the background chorus and the amazing [New York Philharmonic] orchestra, Paige O'Hard, who voiced Belle, said in 2016. "And then Ms. Lansbury - who I have admired my whole life - came in after being up all night [...] and was a trooper. We were all worried she would be too exhausted and then she comes out and sings 'Beauty and the Beast' in one take."
At a 25th anniversary celebration of the film, Lansbury surprised and delighted fans with a performance of the song. Her voice was as beautiful, warm and loving as ever.
Beauty and the Beast was both a critical and commercial success, famously becoming the first animated film ever nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture. Its music, animation and storytelling set a new standard for the genre. It also won other two Academy Awards, one for Best Original Song for "Beauty and the Beast," and another for Best Original Score.
More than three decades later, the film remains a cornerstone of Disney's legacy, beloved by audiences of all ages.
With its inclusion on Rotten Tomatoes' list, Beauty and the Beast stands as a timeless classic, a film that continues to captivate with its unforgettable characters, music and message.
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This story was originally published April 20, 2026 at 4:30 PM.