Disney
Disney+ review
1.2.1
October 29, 2020
Varies with device
Disney+
When I first heard about Disney+, I felt a blend of anticipation and doubt. As a lifelong fan of Disney movies, I eagerly anticipated the extensive library of films and shows that this new streaming service promised to offer. The launch date came, and I wasted no time in signing up for a subscription. But how does Disney+ stack up against my expectations? I decided to dive deep into my experience and share my thoughts.
Content Variety and Availability
The first thing that struck me about Disney+ was its impressive content library. From classic animated films like "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" to the Marvel Cinematic Universe and "Star Wars" franchises, it felt like a treasure trove of nostalgia. As I navigated the interface, I was delighted to discover both the beloved classics of my childhood and some lesser-known gems. The availability of documentaries from National Geographic added an educational component that I didn't expect but thoroughly enjoyed.
User-Friendly Interface
One of my earliest concerns was whether the platform would be easy to navigate. Happily, I found the user interface sleek and straightforward. The layout is clean, with categories clearly demarcated, making it a breeze to find exactly what I was looking for. I appreciated the personalized recommendations that popped up, guiding me toward new shows and films based on what I had previously watched.
The Marvel Universe
As a massive Marvel fan, I was particularly eager to see how the streaming service incorporated these superhero stories. I was thrilled to find every Marvel movie available for my viewing pleasure. Additionally, the original series like "WandaVision" and "The Falcon and the Winter Soldier" was a major draw for me. The ability to watch new Marvel content on a weekly basis made it feel like I had a built-in event to look forward to—instead of binge-watching everything in one go, I savored the anticipation.
Star Wars Mania
Being a Star Wars enthusiast, I was ecstatic about the new content exclusive to Disney+. The series "The Mandalorian" instantly became my favorite, beautifully blending nostalgia with fresh storytelling. The character of Grogu captured my heart, leading me on an emotional rollercoaster through the episodes. This original series added a richness to the Star Wars universe that I think fans had been craving.
Classic Animated Features
Disney’s animated classics have always held a special place in my heart. From "The Little Mermaid" to "Aladdin," reliving these stories through Disney+ was a joyous experience. The quality of their remastered versions was impressive. It felt like I was watching them for the first time all over again, with brighter colors and improved sound quality making a significant difference. I frequently find myself revisiting these films, often accompanied by fond memories from my childhood.
Family-Friendly Programming
Disney+ truly shines in its family-friendly offerings. Having children in the house, I was pleased to find suitable content for various age ranges. My kids loved "Frozen II" and the animated series like "DuckTales," allowing us to spend quality family time enjoying shows together. The parental controls made it easy to curate what they could watch, which brings peace of mind.
Documentary Side of Disney+
I was pleasantly surprised by the wealth of documentaries available on the platform. The "Disney Nature" series and "Inside Pixar" caught my attention and became favorites of mine. I appreciate documentaries that serve both to entertain and inform, and I found the storytelling in these series to be both deep and captivating. It's a nice change of pace from scripted shows and films.
Exclusivity of New Releases
One point that initially worried me was the exclusivity of new releases. While I understood that some films would be available for an added fee through Premiere Access, I couldn't help but feel slightly frustrated. The excitement of a new Disney film often comes with the joy of watching it the moment it drops on the platform. However, I was relieved to read that many films would eventually make their way to the library without the extra cost.
Mobile Compatibility
In today’s world, having streaming services that work well on mobile devices is crucial. I was pleased with how Disney+ performed on my smartphone and tablet. Streaming was smooth, with minimal buffering times. The ability to get content for offline viewing was a bonus, especially during long travels or downtime. The mobile app didn’t feel diminished in any way compared to using it on my television.
Pricing and Subscription Options
At $7.99 per month, Disney+ seemed reasonably priced considering the wealth of content available. I believe that families can get significant value from it, given the vast array of shows and movies suitable for all ages. The option to bundle Disney+ with Hulu and ESPN+ further sweetened the deal for those interested in more diverse viewing options.
Content for Adults
While Disney has traditionally been known for its family-oriented approach, I was curious about how they catered to adult audiences. I found that some original programming, particularly the Marvel and Star Wars series, included darker themes and more mature storytelling elements. Shows like "The Mandalorian" and "WandaVision" appealed to both new viewers and long-term fans. However, I admit I did miss some well-known dramas and comedies that were absent from the platform.
Original Content Quality
The quality of the original content on Disney+ has been more than satisfactory for me. While I've seen mixed reviews on certain shows, I’ve found a lot of gems that kept me glued to the screen. Beyond the obvious franchise properties, the service has also introduced interesting new stories and characters that I'd love to see explored further in future seasons.
Support for Multiple Users
One feature that I truly appreciate is the ability to set up multiple profiles under one account. With a family of four, this made managing our individual preferences a lot easier. Each member can curate their viewing history and recommended shows, eliminating the "what should we watch?" dilemma that often arises in households. Having customized profiles has truly enhanced our overall experience with the service.
The Drawbacks
While my overall experience with Disney+ has been positive, there have been some drawbacks worth mentioning. A few classic animated films that I was hoping to find on the platform were not available. Additionally, the absence of certain adult-oriented content could deter some viewers right from the start. I also noticed that the library updates have room for improvement; I find myself hoping for a faster influx of new content.
Future Growth Potential
As I think about the future of Disney+, I’m filled with optimism. The company’s ambitious plans for expanding their content offerings gives me something exciting to look forward to. I’m eager to see how they will continue to innovate and create original programming that will keep me engaged. With franchises such as Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars in Disney’s arsenal, there’s no denying that the platform has room to grow and evolve.
The Sense of Community
What I truly love about being a Disney+ subscriber is the sense of community it fosters among fans. Social media is buzzing with discussions around original series, animated classics, and future releases. I enjoy engaging with fellow fans, making recommendations, and sharing excitement over new episodes. This spirit of camaraderie can enhance one’s viewing experience, making it much more than just passive entertainment.
Disney+
To download the app, you will get links to the Official Website and/or official digital markets.