Where would our Disney Animation heroes be without their plucky sidekicks? Sidekicks are vital to any adventure – they support, encourage and inspire our heroes on their journeys. They are also usually the ones to make us laugh out loud. Since 1923, Walt Disney Animation Studios has created truly iconic sidekicks.
At Immersive Disney Animation in Las Vegas, you will see the artistry of iconic characters brought to life and up close like never before.
Which one is your favorite? See if they made our list:
“I’m travel-size for your convenience. If I was my real size, your cow here would die of fright.” – Mushu, Mulan
In Mulan, Mushu starts out helping our titular hero for his own benefit – he wants to prove himself. Despite his best intentions, initially his attempts to help and encourage Mulan more often than not get her into trouble. However, as the story progresses, he grows into his role of supportive sidekick. Mushu is also hilarious, and it may be argued that his actions are what drives the plot forward.
“Ring, ring! Who’s there? Destiny? I’ve been expecting your call.” – Rhino, Bolt
In Bolt, Rhino is proof that size doesn’t matter. He delivers epic proportions of bravery (and hilarity) in a hamster-sized package. Not only is Rhino Bolt’s biggest fan, once he teams up with Bolt, he shows that he has what it takes to be a hero himself. Rhino understands that heroes need their sidekicks, and that being a hero’s sidekick is a wonderful responsibility. He also gives the best motivational speeches, and knows how to deliver a knockout punchline.
“Some people are worth melting for.” – Olaf, Frozen
Dreamt to life by a young Elsa, Olaf in Frozen is a snowman who dreams of feeling the summer heat. He joins Anna on her quest to save Elsa and their kingdom, Arendelle. His boundless enthusiasm, can-do attitude, and unconditional devotion to those he cares about make him a great sidekick and valued friend. He is also very funny, and is endlessly quotable.
“I heard a sound of distress. What seems to be the trouble?” – Baymax, Big Hero 6
In Big Hero 6, Hiro Hamada is lost and despondent when Baymax becomes part of his life. Designed and built by Hiro’s older brother, Tadashi, Baymax is an inflatable healthcare robot. His main concern is Hiro’s wellbeing. His marshmallowy design is not ideal for subterfuge, but he helps and supports Hiro – even when Hiro makes mistakes. Baymax also teaches Hiro what is important, and worth fighting for.
“WWWAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!” – Heihei
Yes – Heihei is a rooster. Yes – Heihei can’t speak, and eats rocks. And unlike most sidekicks, he is more of a hindrance than help. However, Heihei is a scene stealer. His reactions to situations are equal parts deadpan and over-the-top dramatic. Even Moana defends him in the face of (deserved) criticism: “Well, some of our strengths lie beneath the surface, while others… far beneath…”
So, who is your favorite Disney Animation sidekick? Did they make our list?
At Immersive Disney Animation, now in Las Vegas, beloved movies from the Walt Disney Animation Studios catalogue will be brought to life using state-of-the-art video mapping and projection technology. You will get to see the artistry of iconic characters up close like never before.
This is a magical experience you don’t want to miss! Get your tickets now at DisneyImmersive.com.