With the premieres of "Toy Story 4", "The Lion King" and a live-action version of "Aladdin", Disney films have taken over global theaters this summer. 

Whether it's a sequel or remake, Disney reinvented many of this classics with lessons for both kids and adults. Princess Jasmine in the new version of "Aladdin" fights against patriarchal traditions. The cowboy Woody finally steps into the outside world and finds meaning in "Toy Story 4".

Many audiences said the films recalled their childhood memories while at the same time, they've seen changes and surprises in the making. 

Animated films have never been just for kids. The journeys of the characters are the embodiment of our development and the struggle we undertake to become the people we are today.

Growing up

Audiences are growing up and so are the Disney characters.

In the previous three chapters of "Toy Story", the only meaning for the toys is to win their owner's hearts and make them happy.

"Toy Story 4", however, challenges this philosophy and takes a bold step as the toys realize they have the right to prioritize their own happiness. Woody, Buzz Lightyear and the others finally learn how to create a meaningful life for themselves.

A comment on social media said it's also the same with how parents should get along with their kids. "When kids grow up, we should just let them go. Let them find their own ways of living," the comment said. 

Also, the growth of Simba – from an innocent baby lion to a powerful king – resonates with many audiences' experiences of overcoming setbacks and growing-up.

The power of dreams

Life extends to wherever your dream lies.

That's another life lesson Disney tries to convey.

In its 3D making "Zootopia" in 2016, Disney creates a tiny bunny who dreams of becoming the first bunny cop in the city of Zootopia.

Neither the discouragement from her family or the prejudices of society frightens her away. Through her hard work, she finally becomes an excellent cop in the big city and clears up serious criminal cases.

The Oscar-awarded "Coco" is another fine example of how dreams matter.

If the hero Miguel fails to pursue his dream of doing music, he would never have become a musician nor discovered the real story behind his family.

"The rest of the world may follow the rules, but I must follow my heart," Miguel said.

The rise of women

The Disney heroine, for decades, remained a beautiful and fragile princess who needed to be rescued by a handsome prince.

That's not the plot anymore.

In the live-action "Aladdin", Princess Jasmine refuses to marry a prince just to protect her country. Instead, she fights the patriarchal traditions and rules of the kingdom of Agrabah, and instead insists that she can rule the kingdom herself. 

The return of Bo Peep, who helps Woody to find meaning  in "Toy Story 4", is also an example of Disney's efforts to highlight the importance of females in society.