Period Dramas on Disney Plus
Disney+ joined the streaming world a few years back, and they’ve since added numerous period dramas and historical fantasies to their lineup. If you’re unsure what to watch, we have a list of romantic period dramas on Disney+ for you. From favorites like Pirates of the Caribbean to hidden gems like The Rocketeer and Amy, there’s plenty to enjoy. Grab your remote and dive in!
The list includes historical fantasies, period films, and movies/shows similar to period dramas, such as WandaVision. Note that this list, initially published in 2019, was updated for 2023, and availability may change.
35 Romantic Period Dramas on Disney+
1. Aladdin (2019)
A street urchin named Aladdin meets Princess Jasmine, a magic lamp, and a genie. The film is known for its musical numbers and romance, starring Will Smith, Mena Massoud, and Naomi Scott.
2. Amy (1981)
In the early 20th century, Amy leaves her husband to teach visually and hard-of-hearing students, helping them speak for the first time while developing a romance with a Doctor. This is a heartwarming drama starring a young Jenny Agutter.
3. Beauty and the Beast (2017)
This period fantasy, set in the 18th century, follows Belle as she is imprisoned by a cursed man turned beast. Their romance unfolds in a castle with lovely costumes and memorable songs.
4. Bedknobs and Broomsticks (1971)
During World War II, three children find magic with a witch as their guardian. This whimsical and adventurous family movie includes romantic moments between the characters Miss Price and Mr. Browne.
5. Captain America (2011) / Agent Carter (2015) / The Avengers: Endgame (2019)
During World War II, Steve Rogers becomes Captain America with the help of a super-soldier serum and falls in love with Agent Peggy Carter. Their love story spans several Marvel movies and the spinoff TV show Agent Carter, concluding in Avengers: Endgame.
6. The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian (2008)
The Pevensie siblings return to Narnia in the 1940s to overthrow an evil king and restore Prince Caspian to the throne, with a budding romance between Susan and Caspian.
7. Eternals (2021)
Following a race of immortals through various time periods, they fight to save Earth from destruction. The film has several romantic storylines despite its average reception.
8. The Finest Hours (2016)
Based on a true 1952 story, the Coast Guard attempts to rescue sailors from a sinking ship. It’s a thrilling man vs. nature tale with a love story starring Chris Pine.
9. The Greatest Showman (2017)
A period musical about P.T. Barnum, the founder of Barnum & Bailey Circus. Filled with catchy songs and romance, it stars Hugh Jackman.
10. Hamilton (2020)
Lin Manuel Miranda’s award-winning musical captures the life of Alexander Hamilton. The show features two compelling love stories and has been adapted for Disney+.
11. Hello, Dolly! (1969)
Set in Victorian times, this musical follows matchmaker Dolly Levi on her quest for love. Starring Barbra Streisand, it’s known for its music and classic charm.
12. Hidden Figures (2016)
This drama tells the true story of three women who helped NASA launch John Glenn into space in the 1960s. The film features a romance between Katherine Johnson and Captain Jim Johnson.
13. Into the Woods (2014)
A period fantasy musical inspired by fairy tales about a baker and his wife on an adventure to achieve their dream of having a child. It explores themes of true love and romance.
14. John Carter (2012)
A Civil War veteran is transported to another planet with newfound abilities, where he meets a princess in need of help. The film, while not as romantic as the source material, is engaging.
15. The Journey of Natty Gann (1985)
Set during the Great Depression, a young girl travels across the country to find her father, saving a wolf and finding love along the way.
16. Jungle Cruise (2021)
Based on the Disneyland ride, this 1916-set adventure follows Dr. Lily Houghton, her brother, and a riverboat skipper on a quest for a mystical tree. The film has a paranormal romance and is similar to Pirates of the Caribbean and The Mummy.
17. Lady and the Tramp (2019)
A live-action remake of the classic Disney tale, set in 1909. It tells the love story of a Cocker Spaniel and a street mutt.
18. Mary Poppins Returns (2018)
In 1930s London, Mary Poppins returns to help the Banks children, with a subplot featuring a sweet romance between Jane Banks and Jack the Lamplighter.
19. Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children (2016)
Set in 1943, this film adapts the popular book about children with unusual abilities, featuring a romance between the main character, Jake, and Emma Bloom.
20. Mulan (2020)
A young Chinese girl disguises herself as a man to become a warrior. This version includes a romance with a fellow soldier.
21. Newsies (1992)
This musical follows the NYC newsie strike of 1899, starring Christian Bale. It includes a romantic subplot and delivers nostalgic ’90s entertainment.
22. Oklahoma! (1955)
Set at the turn of the 20th century, this musical follows cowboy Curly McLain’s romance with farm girl Laurey Williams. It’s filled with catchy tunes and nostalgia.
23. Once Upon a Time (2011) / Once Upon a Time in Wonderland (2013)
Once Upon a Time blends modern-day settings with fairy-tale pasts. The spinoff, Once Upon a Time in Wonderland, focuses on Alice’s adventures in a magical world. Both shows are filled with romance and optimism.
24. Pirates of the Caribbean Movies
The historical fantasy series follows Will Turner and Captain Jack Sparrow in their quest to save Elizabeth from supernatural pirates. The series includes a love triangle and memorable performances from Johnny Depp.
25. Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time (2010)
Despite some controversial casting, this ancient-set action film features a romance between a fugitive prince and a princess.
26. The Princess Bride (1987)
A comedy-fantasy set in a fictional medieval world, this film follows the hero Westley as he rescues his true love. It’s a beloved classic with action, romance, and humor.
27. The Rocketeer (1991)
In 1938, a young pilot discovers a jetpack prototype, turning him into a flying superhero while his actress girlfriend faces danger. This adventure-filled romantic drama is perfect for fans of classic Hollywood.
28. The Sound of Music (1965)
This acclaimed musical, set in 1930s Austria, tells the love story between Maria and Captain Von Trapp. It’s a classic that continues to be celebrated for its music and romance.
29. The Three Musketeers (1993)
Set in 17th century France, this film features the Musketeers on a quest filled with romance and adventure.
30. Tuck Everlasting (2002)
In the early 19th century, Winnie falls in love with an immortal named Jesse Tuck. This adaptation of a children’s novel stars Alexis Bledel and Jonathan Jackson.
31. WandaVision (2021)
Though not a traditional period drama, WandaVision recreates different time periods through the lens of classic sitcoms. The show follows the love story of Wanda and Vision, blending romance with Marvel adventure.
32. Cinderella (1997)
This version of Cinderella features an all-star cast and is known for its catchy music and beautiful costumes.
33. Ever After: A Cinderella Story (1998)
This adaptation of Cinderella gives the fairy tale a historical twist, featuring Leonardo Da Vinci as the fairy godmother. It’s a beloved family classic with memorable performances and a timeless love story.
34. Wild Hearts Can’t Be Broken (1991)
Based on a true story, this inspirational film follows Sonora Webster, who dreams of becoming a horse diver. The romantic drama stars Gabrielle Anwar and Michael Schoeffling.
35. West Side Story (2021)
Directed by Steven Spielberg, this classic musical revives the Romeo and Juliet-inspired tale of forbidden love amid gang rivalry. It’s a visually impressive film with a compelling love story.
Additional Period Dramas on Disney+ (Many Not Romantic but Wonderful!)
– 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea
– Adventures of Bullwhip Green
– The Adventures of Huck Finn
– Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.
– Alice in Wonderland
– Alice Through the Looking Glass
– The Apple Dumpling Gang and its sequel
– Around the World in 80 Days
– Babes in Toyland
– Blackbeard’s Ghost
– The Call of the Wild
– Castaway Cowboy
– A Christmas Carol
– Christopher Robin
– Cruella
– Darby O Gill and the Little People
– Davy Crockett (2 movies)
– Dumbo
– Emil and the Detectives
– Glory Road
– The Greatest Game Ever Played
– Greyfriars Bobby
– Invincible
– Iron Will
– The Jungle Book (2016)
– A Kid in King Arthur’s Court
– The Kid Who Would Be King
– Liz & Dick
– Loki
– Maleficent
– Mark Twain and Me
– Mary Poppins
– Miracle
– Miracle at Midnight
– The Mysterious Benedict Society
– Newsies: The Broadway Musical
– The Nutcracker and the Four Realms
– Old Yeller
– Pete’s Dragon (2 versions)
– Pinocchio
– Pollyanna
– The Prince and the Pauper
– Red Tails
– Remember the Titans
– Return to Oz
– The Right Stuff
– Ruby Bridges
– Saving Mr. Banks
– Secretariat
– Shipwrecked
– Sign of Zorro
– Squanto: A Warrior’s Tale
– Star Wars Movies & TV Shows
– The Story of Robin Hood
– Swiss Family Robinson
– Tall Tale
– Those Calloways
– Tom and Huck
– Willow (movies and TV show)
– White Fang
– White Fang 2
Coming Soon
A Small Light – A series about Miep Gies, the woman who helped Anne Frank and her family hide, premieres on May 2, 2023.
Feel free to explore these romantic period dramas on Disney+ and dive into timeless tales of love and adventure.
