Breaking the fourth wall is a time-honored tradition in storytelling, and Disney movies are no exception. In this post, we’ll take a look at 17 Disney movies that broke the fourth wall, letting the characters speak directly to the audience and adding an extra layer of fun and whimsy to these beloved films.
Aladdin (1992)
The Genie, voiced by Robin Williams, often talks directly to the audience with an array of pop culture references that only viewers would understand, from transforming into Arnold Schwarzenegger to imitating Jack Nicholson.
The Emperor’s New Groove (2000)
The film is known for its fourth-wall-breaking humor. For example, Kuzco pauses the film to talk to the audience directly, and even uses a red marker on the screen to discuss the plot.
Zootopia (2016)
Officers Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde reference real-world issues in a way that clearly addresses the audience. They discuss themes such as stereotyping and bias in a way that translates to real-world issues.
Ratatouille (2007)
Remy often addresses the audience with his thoughts about humans, cooking, and his own dreams, providing commentary throughout the movie.
Chicken Little (2005)
Chicken Little uses narration and direct address to interact with the audience. He refers to his past mistakes that we, the viewers, wouldn’t otherwise know about, and often comments on the events as they unfold.
Hercules (1997)
The Muses in Hercules often talk to the audience, narrating the story in a cheeky, knowing manner. They act as both characters in the story and outside commentators.
Robin Hood (1973)
The rooster Alan-a-Dale serves as the film’s narrator and regularly breaks the fourth wall to guide us through the story. He offers commentary on events and characters, speaking directly to the audience.
The Great Mouse Detective (1986)
Basil of Baker Street, the detective mouse, often addresses the audience directly. He explains his detective process and even makes a few jokes at our expense.
Oliver & Company (1988)
Dodger often makes knowing comments about the “humans” watching the film, acknowledging the audience’s existence.
Cars (2006)
Lightning McQueen winks at the camera after winning his first race, acknowledging the audience and breaking the fourth wall.
A Goofy Movie (1995)
Max, in an attempt to impress Roxanne, looks at the audience and says “It’s a little childish and stupid, but then, so is high school,” clearly addressing viewers.
Mulan (1998)
Mushu, much like the Genie in Aladdin, often talks directly to the audience, sharing jokes and observations that are intended for the viewers rather than other characters.
Wreck-It Ralph (2012)
Ralph breaks the fourth wall in the Bad-Anon meeting by talking to the camera, acknowledging the audience’s presence.
Moana (2016)
Maui refers to Moana’s status as a “princess,” referencing the common Disney trope, despite Moana’s insistence that she’s not a princess. The comment is a clear wink to the audience.
Bambi (1942)
Friend Owl speaks directly to the audience when he introduces the concept of being “twitterpated,” a direct nod to the viewers.
Monsters, Inc. (2001)
Mike Wazowski often speaks to the audience with asides and knowing comments, particularly when he’s filming the commercial for Monsters, Inc. and during the end credit outtakes.
Enchanted (2007)
Enchanted cleverly plays with the tropes of Disney princess films. The film often breaks the fourth wall with its self-aware humor, especially when Giselle brings her fairy-tale logic into the real world.
MORE FROM LOVED BY CURLS – 23 MOVIE/TV CHARACTERS WHO SEEMED NICE BUT WERE ACTUALLY COMPLETE JERKS
Movies and TV shows can be biased and will sometimes make you root for a character that isn’t actually nice. A recent internet survey asked, “What movie/tv show character was made out to be nice but was actually a jerk?” Here are the top 23 answers:
23 MOVIE/TV CHARACTERS WHO SEEMED NICE BUT WERE ACTUALLY COMPLETE JERKS
20 MOVIES WE WISH WE COULD ERASE FROM OUR MINDS AND WATCH AGAIN FOR THE FIRST TIME
Do you ever wish you could travel back in time to relive a favorite movie experience all over again? Reddit recently compiled a list of such amazing movies, and here are 20 of our favorites.
20 MOVIES WE WISH WE COULD ERASE FROM OUR MINDS AND WATCH AGAIN FOR THE FIRST TIME
THE 38 MOST AWESOME ‘BAD GUYS’ IN MOVIE HISTORY
They’re the ones we love to hate, the characters that make our blood boil, and keep us on the edge of our seats. These are the 38 best movie villains of all time.
THE 38 MOST AWESOME ‘BAD GUYS’ IN MOVIE HISTORY
27 MOVIES THAT YOU’LL REGRET NOT WATCHING SOONER
With so many great movies out there, it can be tough to decide which ones to watch. A recent internet survey asked, “What’s a movie everyone should watch at least once in their life?” and here are the top 29 answers.
27 MOVIES THAT YOU’LL REGRET NOT WATCHING SOONER
19 MOVIES WHERE THE SUPPORTING ACTOR STOLE THE ENTIRE SHOW
While leading roles often get the most attention and acclaim, supporting actors can play an equally important role in making a movie memorable. Someone recently asked, “What is one supporting role that truly stole every scene they were in?” and we’ve listed the top 20 answers below.