Roger Ebert will forever be remembered as an emblem of film criticism, a man whose appreciation and critical analysis of the medium defined his life. He wrote many books that compiled thousands of movie reviews, and opened the eyes of millions of Americans in looking at more than just the face value of a film. In 1987 Ebert and fellow critic Gene Siskel’s PBS series caught the eye of Buena Vista Entertainment, Disney’s formerly-named television division, when they syndicated the show to mass audiences.

Ebert’s relationship with Disney would continue for two decades as co-host of the series, which went through many names including Siskel and Ebert and the Movies and later Ebert & Roeper. Though having a show essentially owned by Disney could have clouded many a critic’s judgment, Ebert was never one to shy away from the truth. He loved some movies. He hated others. But no matter the review, Ebert always shared an informed, well-reasoned opinion that viewers could relate to, as if he was just another friend sharing his thoughts.

Ebert even entered the Disney theme parks, in film form at least. He and Richard Roeper hosted a movie theater-themed exhibit at Epcot’s Innoventions in the early 2000s, discussing the visual quality of movies like Pearl Harbor and Atlantis: The Lost Empire.

Here are some of clips of Ebert reviewing some of his favorite Disney films, as well as a few he could not stand. Let us celebrate Ebert by re-watching his silver screen evaluation in full force as he examines a handful of Disney’s cinematic crop.

Disney Films He Loved

The Hunchback of Notre Dame

Pinocchio

The Little Mermaid

Toy Story

Disney Films He Hated

Return to Oz

Gone In 60 Seconds

Note: This film was distributed by Disney’s Touchstone Pictures label.

What are your favorite memories of Roger Ebert? Share your thoughts, and be sure to comment on whether or not you agree with his analyses of these Disney films.

This is Brett Nachman, signing off. Follow me on Twitter for alerts of new editions of Disney In Depth, Thursdays on Geeks of Doom. Have a good week!