Tangled. This 2010 animated masterpiece is a retelling of the Rapunzel fairy tale, and it absolutely stole my heart. Not only is it just a joy to watch (the lantern scene—be still, my swooning heart), but it also showcases many of the storytelling elements I love most: strong heroines, charismatic heroes, and a sprinkle of suspense and adventure.
Strong, Independent Heroine
Rapunzel is the kind of heroine I adore. She’s curious, determined, and resourceful, even after spending 18 years locked away in a tower. When the opportunity to escape finally arrives, she takes it—and doesn’t shy away from facing her fears. She doesn’t need Flynn Rider to save her; she simply needs a partner to help her navigate her new world, and I love that dynamic.
Charismatic Hero Who Falls Hard
Speaking of Flynn Rider… easily my favorite Disney animated hero. He’s a charming thief with a dry sense of humor and a hardened exterior, but it’s Rapunzel’s light and unrelenting optimism that cracks his shell. Watching him fall for her first—and hard—is one of the most satisfying arcs in the movie. I mean, all those stolen glances as she's just being her amazing self? Sigh.
Grumpy-Sunshine Dynamic
I have to linger on this one because it’s such a favorite trope of mine. The contrast between Flynn’s cynicism and Rapunzel’s sunshine personality creates not just humor, but an irresistible chemistry. Don't believe he's a grump? Check out his lyrics in I've Got a Dream:
I have dreams, like you, no, really!
Just much less touchy-feely
They mainly happen somewhere warm and sunny
On an island that I own
Tanned and rested and alone
Surrounded by enormous piles of money
He just wants to be alone! And wow, the frowns and grumbles he gives her when they leave the tower after his smolder doesn't work? It's the same dynamic I love exploring in my stories: two people who seem mismatched on the surface but are exactly what the other needs deep down.
Intrigue and Suspense
Then there's Mother Gothel—one of the most manipulative villains ever (although her Mother Knows Best is one of my fave musical numbers in the movie). The way she gaslights Rapunzel? Ugh! The tension she creates keeps you on the edge of your seat, especially when Rapunzel starts piecing together the truth.
And then the end? When she offers to sacrifice herself to save him, but he won't accept that, and then sacrifices himself for her? I get goosebumps every time I watch that scene. The tears. The joy. The unconditional love!
Why I Love It
At its heart, Tangled is a story about trust, vulnerability, and finding your courage. It’s a tale of two people who challenge each other to grow and believe in themselves. That positive, supportive dynamic is central to the relationships in my novels as well, and it’s what makes Tangled such a perfect fit for my list of top 5 movies of all time.
So, if you haven’t watched Tangled recently, consider this your sign to stream it tonight. And if you’re already a fan, tell me your favorite part! (Is it Flynn’s smolder? Because… so same.)
(Or is it the lanterns? Because I've yet to watch that scene without crying.)