Disney+ unveils dynamic Top 10 Today list

Disney+ is ramping up viewer engagement by introducing the Top 10 Today list, its new feature that highlights the most popular movies and TV shows on the platform daily. This innovation follows in the footsteps of Netflix, which first launched a similar ranking nearly five years ago. Disney+ strives to offer subscribers a fresh way to discover trending content and maximize their streaming experience.

How it works: personalized and engaging

The Top 10 Today list on Disney+ isn’t a one-size-fits-all ranking. Instead, it tailors content to each individual subscriber, varying based on multiple factors. These include:

User profile’s content rating: Titles shown are appropriate for the ages and preferences set within each profile.
Subscription plan: Subscribers with the Disney+/Hulu bundle will see a mix of titles from both services, allowing a richer and more diverse selection.
Geographic location: Regional variances mean the list adapts to available content in each country. This way, viewers always get the most relevant recommendations tailored to their area.

Notably, at launch, the Top 10 Today list will exclude Junior Mode profiles, ensuring that kids see content suited to their viewing needs separately.

What’s included: more than just most-watched

Disney+ clarifies that the Top 10 Today list isn’t just a tally of the most-watched titles. Instead, several factors are considered, blending a more nuanced approach to highlight popular content:

Total views at the episode and movie level within a day
Growing popularity of new releases

This method contrasts with the periodic viewership data Disney+ shares for popular shows and films, which traditionally calculates based on total subscriber stream time divided by runtime. This approach introduces a dynamic flair, offering a snapshot of what’s currently gaining traction and exciting viewers.

Compare and contrast: Disney+ vs other platforms

It’s interesting to note that unlike Netflix and Warner Bros. Discovery’s Max—where separate lists exist for TV shows and movies—the Disney+ list combines both. This mirrors the strategy adopted by Disney-owned Hulu with its top 15 rankings, launched in September 2023.

Disney+’s combined top 10 list offers a more holistic view of trending content, whether it’s a gripping series or a blockbuster film.

A look at the current favorites: top picks for Oct. 30

For subscribers of the Disney+/Hulu bundle, the current top 10 list as of Oct. 30 includes a mix of nostalgic hits and newer releases, perfectly tailored for the Halloween season:

Hocus Pocus (1993)
Disney+ original series Agatha All Along
Hocus Pocus 2 (2022)
Halloweentown
The Simpsons’ Most Wonderful Time of the Year
Venom
Mickey’s Spooky Stories
Halloweentown II: Kalabar’s Revenge
ABC’s High Potential
Haunted Mansion

This eclectic mix underscores the platform’s ability to cater to diverse tastes, from classic spooky tales to contemporary series with massive followings.

Taking a closer look at these picks reveals some intriguing trends. The timeless charm of Hocus Pocus and its sequel Hocus Pocus 2 underline a deep-seated nostalgia in viewers’ hearts, especially around Halloween. Meanwhile, the Disney+ original series Agatha All Along capitalizes on the growing fascination with the Marvel universe, merging mystery with magic.

The blend of new and old in these rankings reflects Disney+’s broad appeal, accommodating fans of enduring classics and those eagerly following new releases alike.

A strategic move in the streaming wars

The introduction of the Top 10 Today list is a significant step for Disney+ as it bolsters its competitive edge in the ever-evolving streaming landscape. By offering a curated, dynamic snapshot of what’s trending, Disney+ enhances the platform’s user experience, enticing subscribers to explore beyond their usual viewing habits.

Final thoughts

The launch of the Top 10 Today list showcases Disney+’s dedication to innovation and audience engagement. By tailoring the most popular content to individual viewer profiles, Disney+ ensures that each subscriber, regardless of their location or subscription plan, has a constant stream of trending and relevant content to enjoy.

Keep discovering what’s popular on Disney+ and stay updated with the ever-evolving Top 10 Today. Share your thoughts and favorite picks on social media, and follow us for more insights and updates on the trending world of streaming entertainment.