Top 5 Underrated Disney Characters

Everyone loves a good Disney movie. There is nothing like sitting down and being transported to your childhood for any period of time. These movies are full of so many wonderful characters, but most people seem to gravitate towards the main ones. I say it is high time we give the minor characters the respect they deserve. Without further ado, here is a (completely objective and unofficial) ranking of the Top 5 Underrated Disney Characters.

5. Michael Darling- Peter Pan (1953)

Ah, Michael Darling. Any time people make a list of the cutest Disney kids Michael is sadly left off. Michael is adorable with his huge eyes, innocent face, pink jammies, and teddy bear. Not to mention the fact that his attitude embodies the college student mentality, "Go for days without sleep." Here's to you, Michael Darling. Thank you for reaffirming our life choices.

4. Oaken- Frozen (2013)

Sure, we like to say, "Woo-hoo! Big summer blowout!" but we don't take the time to think about how much of a boss Oaken is. Oaken is kind and considerate, but he doesn't let anyone take advantage of him. Not to mention the fact that he can point out that what you are doing completely crazy without making you feel bad about yourself. Now all that Oaken needs to master is the phrase "Bless your heart!"

3. Nakoma- Pocahontas (1995)

Let's all take a moment to feel bad for not even knowing Nakoma's name. Why is she so important? Well, to put it simply, Pocahontas is flipping crazy. Nakoma is the stable friend that every free-spirited girl needs to keep her semi-grounded. She is also an amazing friend. She is literally the type of friend who will be waiting at the bottom to catch you when you jump off a cliff. If she were in Mulan, she would totally be a girl worth fighting for.

2. Esmeralda- The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996)

Esmeralda is easily one of the best yet most over-looked Disney women. Why? She's the boss, that's why. She is brave, kind, resourceful, and loving towards all people. That's not even mentioning how beautiful she is. Esmeralda is proof that beauty is more than just skin deep. She has one of the most beautiful hearts that Disney has ever seen. God Help the Outcasts is a hauntingly beautiful Disney song that is ageless. I didn't see this movie until I was 19, but I cried when I heard this song because it is a heartfelt prayer that really puts life into perspective.

1. Ray- The Princess and the Frog (2009)

Could it have been anyone else? Ray is easily one of the greatest Disney characters of all time, major or minor. He loves Evangeline with all of his heart and he has faith that someday they will be together. He is a loyal friend even to death. He is a loving member of his family and he has a way of making everyone feel welcome. Ray's heart is always in the right place and he would do absolutely anything for anyone he cares about. Ray's death scene is easily one of the few times that Disney made people cry sad tears and happy tears in less than a minute. It just doesn't seem fair that Ray can be crushed so easily, but all his love for and faith in Evangeline pays off in the end. He gets to be beside his love forever.

Who is a Disney character that you thing goes unfortunately unrecognized? Comment below and your character might just make the next installment of Underrated Disney Characters! Be sure to share this post with your friends and subscribe to see Stargazing with van Gogh posts first.