Atlantis: The Lost Empire

Milo James Thatch is a young linguist who's obsessed with proving Atlantis is real. When a funded expedition sets out, Milo signs on and ends up among an eclectic team of engineers, divers, mercenaries, and scholars aboard the submarine Ulysses. They follow cryptic maps and scattered clues across the ocean until they discover a hidden, technologically advanced civilization ruled by Princess Kida. The story tracks Milo as he applies his knowledge under pressure, forges friendships with unlikely allies, and watches wonder collide with pragmatic and military interests. The film balances brisk action and eerie ruins with quieter scenes of translation, artifact study, and the ethical questions that come with encountering another culture.

Released by Walt Disney Feature Animation in 2001, Atlantis: The Lost Empire was directed by Gary Trousdale and Kirk Wise. Story contributions came from Tab Murphy, Joss Whedon, and Bryce Zabel, and the voice cast includes Michael J. Fox as Milo, Cree Summer as Kida, and James Garner as Commander Rourke, with Claudia Christian and Corey Burton among the supporting players.

Among Disney films it stands out for favoring a darker, science fiction-leaning tone and a design approach that mixes industrial detail with ancient motifs. That distinctive look and a focus on worldbuilding helped it develop a devoted fanbase, and the movie is often cited by fans for its unique style, inspiring fan art, cosplay, and ongoing online conversation.

Critical response highlighted the film's ambitious visuals and inventive set pieces, while some critics felt character development and pacing were uneven. Audience reception has been generally positive, reflected in a 7.0 out of 10 user vote average, and the story raises recurring themes about cultural preservation, the dangers of exploitation, scientific curiosity, and what it means to belong.