We are back with another Disney+ Battle. This is the series where we take two movies available on Disney+ and compare and contrast them. This week, we are comparing a classic from the Disney Renaissance and a hidden gem from Disney’s First Dark Age. So, let’s see who wins a battle between “Aladdin” and “Robin Hood.”

1. PROTAGONIST

It’s easy to see the main characters in both of these films. The movies are named after the protagonists. Aladdin is a “street rat” living on the streets of Agrabah who one day wants a better life. Robin Hood is a fox who robs from the rich and gives to the poor during a time of heavy taxation in medieval England. Both are essentially criminals. Aladdin steals to survive while Robin Hood steals to help others. I think that makes Robin Hood the better protagonist. Point to “Robin Hood.”

Aladdin 0 | Robin Hood 1

2. ANTAGONIST

There’s a big difference in the villains of these films. The villain in “Aladdin” is Jafar, the most trusted advisor of the Sultan. He has the ear of the leader making him one of the most effective villains before adding any powers. When you throw in his snake staff that can hypnotize people, he’s a formidable foe. In contrast, Prince John is a weak villain. He’s portrayed as a cowardly lion who is taxing the poor to make himself richer while his brother, the King, is off leading the crusades. He sucks his thumb a lot and calls for his “mommy.” He’s a funny villain, but not a good one. Point to “Aladdin.”

Aladdin 1 | Robin Hood 1

3. SUPPORTING CHARACTERS

Both of these films have some of the best supporting characters in the Disney canon. In “Aladdin,” there is Princess Jasmine, the Sultan, Abu, Iago and, of course, Genie. Meanwhile, “Robin Hood” has Little John, Sir Hiss, the Sheriff of Nottingham, Maid Marian, Lady Cluck and Friar Tuck. Both have great characters, but I think the supporting cast of “Aladdin” is stronger. Point to “Aladdin.”

Aladdin 2 | Robin Hood 1

4. MUSIC

This might be an unfair category in this battle. “Aladdin” has some amazing songs from three of the greatest minds in music. It started as the third Disney collaboration between Howard Ashman and Alan Menken. It would be their final collaboration as Ashman passed during production. Tim Rice took over and between the three of them gave us some gems that can still be heard on Disney soundtracks today. “Robin Hood” has two fun songs with “Oo-de-lally” and “Phony King of England.” “Robin Hood” would do well in this category against a lot of other Disney films, but not against films from the Disney Renaissance. Point to “Aladdin.”

Aladdin 3 | Robin Hood 1

5. MEMORABLE MOMENTS

Both of these films are filled with memorable moments. In “Aladdin,” what stands out to me is the Cave of Wonders, Aladdin trying to escape the Royal Guard, “Prince Ali,” “A Whole New World,” Jafar being beaten by his lust for power, and “Genie, you’re free!” In “Robin Hood,” what I remember most is “Oo-de-lally,” Robin Hood and Little John robbing Prince John, the archery contest and the final theft; along with every time Prince John sucked his thumb. It’s close, but I think “Aladdin” is more memorable. Point to “Aladdin.”

Aladdin 4 | Robin Hood 1

“Aladdin” wins this week’s battle. While it looks lopsided with the 4-1 score, “Robin Hood” was close in every category. These are two of my favorite Disney films of all-time and I think they both stand the test of time. If you haven’t watched one or the other, I suggest you check them out. If you’ve seen them both, I suggest you revisit them.

But I’m going to throw it over to you? Which Disney film do you prefer: “Aladdin” or “Robin Hood?”

Jeremy Brown

Jeremy has been a big Disney fan since he was a kid growing up during the Disney Renaissance. One day he hopes to go to every Disney Park in the world.

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