Disney’s ‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame’ Earns ‘Certified Fresh’ Status Decades After Release

Published on 12/20/24 by Craig Smith

Disney’s 1996 animated film The Hunchback of Notre Dame has finally achieved “Certified Fresh” status on Rotten Tomatoes, boasting an 80% approval rating. This milestone, first noted by CBR, reflects a significant shift in critical reception over the years.

Upon its initial release, the film received mixed reviews, with some critics praising its ambitious themes and musical score, while others were less favorable. Over time, however, appreciation for the film’s complex narrative and mature subject matter has grown, leading to a reevaluation by both critics and audiences.

The Hunchback of Notre Dame stands out in Disney’s animated canon for its darker tone and exploration of profound themes such as prejudice, sin, and redemption. The film’s musical score, composed by Alan Menken with lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, has been particularly lauded for its depth and emotional resonance.

This recognition on Rotten Tomatoes underscores the film’s enduring impact and its ability to resonate with contemporary audiences, reaffirming its place as a significant work in Disney’s animated history.

• News Topic: Disney Movie News
• Disney Character(s) in this Article: Captain Phoebus (The Hunchback of Notre Dame), Clopin Trouillefou (The Hunchback of Notre Dame), Djali (The Hunchback of Notre Dame), Esmeralda (The Hunchback of Notre Dame), Hugo (The Hunchback of Notre Dame), Judge Claude Frollo (The Hunchback of Notre Dame), Lady DeBurne (The Hunchback of Notre Dame), Laverne (The Hunchback of Notre Dame), Madellaine (The Hunchback of Notre Dame), Quasimodo (The Hunchback of Notre Dame), Sarousch (The Hunchback of Notre Dame), The Archdeacon (The Hunchback of Notre Dame), Victor (The Hunchback of Notre Dame)
• Movie(s) in this article: The Hunchback Of Notre Dame
• Attraction(s) in this article: The Hunchback of Notre Dame – A Musical Adventure | Disney World