12 Direct-to-DVD Movies That Shockingly Sold Well
Several direct-to-DVD movies surprised the industry by selling far more copies than expected.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 4 min read
Direct-to-DVD releases are often seen as lower quality than theatrical films, but some still became major successes. These titles connected with fans, offered new stories, or appealed to children and families. Their strong sales proved that a film did not need theaters to make an impact.
1. The Lion King 1½ (2004)
The Walt Disney Company on Wikimedia Commons
Disney released this as a comedic spinoff focusing on Timon and Pumbaa. Many fans were eager for more content after the original Lion King. It sold over a million copies in its first few days. The film became one of Disney’s best-selling direct-to-DVD releases.
2. Bambi II (2006)
Ivobel on Wikimedia Commons
This midquel told the story of Bambi’s life with his father after his mother’s death. Although not released in theaters, it sold strongly worldwide. Families bought it quickly due to the classic brand name. It became one of the top-selling Disney DVDs of its year.
3. Cinderella III: A Twist in Time (2007)
Medium69 on Wikimedia Commons
Disney gave this sequel a time-travel twist that caught viewers’ attention. Many were surprised by its creative plot and higher animation quality compared to other sequels. It performed well in DVD sales across the United States and abroad. The film’s unexpected success showed there was still interest in classic princess stories.
4. The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea (2000)
The Walt Disney Company on Wikimedia Commons
This sequel focused on Ariel’s daughter, Melody. Although reviews were mixed, children of the time embraced it. Sales were much stronger than predicted. It became one of Disney’s most profitable direct-to-video titles.
5. Lilo & Stitch 2: Stitch Has a Glitch (2005)
The Walt Disney Company on Wikimedia Commons
The popularity of Lilo & Stitch made fans eager for more. This story about Stitch’s malfunctioning genetic programming was well-received by families. It sold heavily on DVD in its first year. The film helped extend the franchise’s success.
6. Aladdin and the King of Thieves (1996)
Disney Television on Wikimedia Commons
This was Disney’s third Aladdin film and featured Robin Williams returning as the voice of Genie. Fans appreciated his comeback, which boosted interest. The DVD sold in large numbers soon after release. It remains one of the stronger-selling Disney sequels.
7. Scooby-Doo on Zombie Island (1998)
Hanna Barbera, Warner Bros. Animation on Wikimedia Commons
This was a darker take on the Scooby-Doo franchise. It sold strongly on VHS and later on DVD, revitalizing the series. The success led to more direct-to-video Scooby-Doo films. It proved the brand could thrive outside of television.
8. Barbie in the Nutcracker (2001)
Mattel, Inc. on Wikimedia Commons
This was the first Barbie direct-to-DVD movie. It quickly became a hit among young audiences. The sales were so strong that it launched an entire line of Barbie films. It turned into one of Mattel’s most profitable media projects.
9. American Pie Presents: Band Camp (2005)
Pottero on Wikimedia Commons
This spinoff of the American Pie series skipped theaters but found a big audience on DVD. Fans of the original movies picked it up quickly. It sold over a million copies in the U.S. alone. The success led to several more American Pie direct-to-DVD films.
10. The Land Before Time II: The Great Valley Adventure (1994)
Fæ on Wikimedia Commons
The original movie was popular in theaters, and this sequel went straight to home video. It performed surprisingly well and led to over a dozen more sequels. Families continued to buy them for years. The strong sales turned it into a lasting franchise.
11. Mortal Kombat: Annihilation (1997)
Midway Games on Wikimedia Commons
Although criticized for quality, the home video market made it profitable. The strength of the Mortal Kombat brand carried sales. Fans of the games still wanted to own it. The DVD release helped it achieve financial success despite poor reviews.
12. The Fox and the Hound 2 (2006)
Joe Haupt on Wikimedia Commons
This was a midquel focused on the friendship between Tod and Copper. Despite not matching the original film’s impact, it sold well among families. Its DVD release brought in strong profits for Disney. It became another example of a sequel that succeeded without theaters.