Animated films aren’t just for kids. They span a wide range of genres, from family-friendly and comedy to action and horror. The best-animated movies are not only exceptional films but also remarkable works of art. Whether through stop-motion, traditional cartoons, or CGI, these films immerse viewers in imaginative worlds. This list includes top animated features for both families and older audiences, so please note that not all of these films are suitable for children. However, each one delivers outstanding storytelling, stunning visuals, and a true representation of animation’s finest achievements.
From heartwarming tales that resonate with all ages to edgy narratives that push boundaries, these films showcase the versatility of animation. They capture the imagination and evoke a range of emotions, proving that animation is a dynamic and influential medium. Prepare to be captivated by the creativity and artistry that defines these timeless classics and modern masterpieces.
Top Animated Films to Watch?
This list highlights animated films released from 1940 to 2021, though animation itself has existed since the late 1800s. While animated shorts have been a staple of the genre, this list focuses solely on full-length films. Notably, the first full-length animated film was Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, released in 1937.
Featured prominently are films from Disney, Studio Ghibli, and Pixar, but the list also includes works from Laika, DreamWorks, and various independent studios. Although the two highest-grossing animated films, The Lion King (2019) and Frozen II, are not included, many of the films on this list have achieved significant critical and commercial success. This selection highlights the evolution of animation and its impact on both audiences and the industry. The list encompasses various animation styles, such as stop-motion, traditional animation, and CGI, showcasing the diverse excellence of animated cinema.
30. Shrek (2001):
In many ways, Shrek transformed the animated film industry. It not only helped establish CGI and DreamWorks Animation but also became the first film to win the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.
Featuring the voices of Mike Myers and Eddie Murphy, Shrek tells the story of an ogre who is compelled to rescue a princess. The film is based on the book Shrek! by William Steig. Shrek has three sequels and two spin-off films, including the recent hit Puss in Boots: The Last Wish. The film’s innovative humor and unique take on fairy tales set a new standard for animated storytelling. In 2020, Shrek was honored as the first animated film of the 21st century to be selected for preservation by the Library of Congress. Its influence continues to resonate, making it a beloved classic in animation history. Shrek is currently available for streaming on Peacock and fuboTV.
29. Prince of Egypt (1998):
The Prince of Egypt might seem like a simple retelling of the Bible, but it stands out for its breathtaking visuals and memorable soundtrack. The film features a score by Hans Zimmer and includes songs by Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston. The star-studded voice cast includes Val Kilmer, Ralph Fiennes, Michelle Pfeiffer, Sandra Bullock, Jeff Goldblum, Danny Glover, Patrick Stewart, Helen Mirren, Steve Martin, and Martin Short.
The film narrates the story of the Book of Exodus and Moses. It won an Oscar for Best Original Song, becoming the first non-Disney/Pixar animated film to receive an Academy Award. The film’s innovative animation techniques and powerful storytelling have earned it a lasting place in the hearts of audiences and critics alike. Its themes of freedom and redemption continue to resonate, making it a significant contribution to animated cinema. Recently, many have called for the film to be celebrated as an iconic animated classic. The Prince of Egypt is available for rent on YouTube, Amazon Prime, Google Play, and Apple TV.
28. Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009):
Fantastic Mr. Fox is one of two stop-motion animated films directed by Wes Anderson. Based on Roald Dahl’s story of the same name and co-written with Noah Baumbach, the film follows the adventures of a fox who breaks a promise to his pregnant wife.
Featuring voice talents such as George Clooney, Meryl Streep, Owen Wilson, and Bill Murray, the film underperformed at the box office but received critical acclaim, holding a 93% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Its distinctive visual style, characterized by intricate stop-motion animation and Anderson’s signature flair, has earned it a cult following. The film’s clever humor and heartfelt story make it a standout in the genre. Fantastic Mr. Fox is currently available for streaming on Max.
27. The Last Unicorn (1982):
The Last Unicorn is a fantasy adventure film directed by the legendary Arthur Rankin Jr. and Jules Bass. The movie follows a unicorn who takes on human form to escape the genocide of her kind, perpetrated by a ruthless king. Known for its dark tone and style, the film features an unusual soundtrack with music from the band America and the London Symphony Orchestra.
Initially receiving mixed reviews, the film has since developed a devoted cult following. It has been referred to as a “secret Studio Ghibli film” and a proto-anime. The animation studio Topcraft, which produced the film, went bankrupt afterward, leading to the creation of Studio Ghibli by former Topcraft employee Hayao Miyazaki. The film’s striking visual artistry and emotional depth have left a lasting impact on fans and critics alike. The Last Unicorn also boasts voice performances from Alan Arkin, Jeff Bridges, Mia Farrow, Angela Lansbury, and Christopher Lee. It is currently available for streaming on Peacock, Tubi, Amazon, Hulu, and the Roku Channel.
26. The Thief and The Cobbler (1993):
The Thief and The Cobbler is a difficult film to categorize. While the movie faces criticism for its appropriation and exoticism of Middle Eastern cultures, its long and tumultuous production history has earned it a cult following. The film, which began production in the 1960s, remains unfinished.
Directed by Richard Williams and featuring Matthew Broderick and Vincent Price in his final role, the film was passed between several studios and even received partial funding from a Saudi prince. Its troubled production inspired the 2012 documentary Persistence of Vision, which described it as “The untold story of the greatest animated film never made.” The production issues largely stemmed from Williams’ meticulous attention to detail and distinctive animation style. Despite its flaws, the film’s groundbreaking animation techniques and ambitious vision have left a lasting impact on the industry. The Thief and The Cobbler are often cited as a fascinating example of what might have been in the world of animated cinema. It is available for rent on YouTube, Amazon Prime, and Google Play.
25. Paprika (2006):
Paprika is an R-rated Japanese animated psychological thriller based on the novel of the same name. It was the final film directed by the acclaimed anime filmmaker Satoshi Kon. The story follows a dream detective who tracks down a terrorist responsible for stealing a device that can manipulate people’s dreams.
The film premiered at the Venice Film Festival and has often been cited as a potential influence for Inception due to their shared themes and plot elements, though Christopher Nolan has not confirmed this connection. Paprika is known for its imaginative narrative and visually striking animation. The film’s innovative approach to blending reality and dreams has made it a standout in the world of anime. Its vivid imagery and complex storyline continue to captivate audiences. Paprika currently holds an 86% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and is available for streaming on Tubi.
24. The Mitchells vs. the Machines (2021):
The Mitchells vs. the Machines is a sci-fi comedy from Sony Pictures Animation. Written by Mike Rianda, the film follows a family whose college road trip takes an unexpected turn when a robot uprising occurs.
The movie features the voices of Danny McBride, Abbi Jacobson, Maya Rudolph, Mike Rianda, and Eric Andre. Although the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted its distribution, the film received a limited theatrical release before being distributed on Netflix. The Mitchells vs. the Machines garnered critical acclaim and was especially praised by the LGBTQ community for including a main LGBTQ character in a family film. Renowned director Bong Joon-ho even included it among his favorite films of 2021. The film’s unique animation style and heartfelt story have resonated with audiences of all ages. Its blend of humor and emotion makes it a standout in modern animated cinema. The film is currently available to stream on Netflix.
23. Wallace and Gromit The Curse of the Were-Rabbit (2005):
Wallace and Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit is a stop-motion animated film directed by Nick Park and Steve Box. As part of the beloved Wallace and Gromit series, this movie marks the first full-length feature in the franchise.
In the film, Wallace and his loyal dog, Gromit, run a pest control business and are tasked with stopping a giant rabbit from wreaking havoc on their town. The film holds a 95% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. Its charming animation, witty humor, and endearing characters have made it a favorite among audiences of all ages. The film’s inventive stop-motion techniques and clever storytelling showcase the unique artistry of the creators. Wallace and Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit is currently available for streaming on Peacock.
22. Loving Vincent (2017):
Loving Vincent is a film that explores the life and death of Vincent Van Gogh. While the plot is both heartbreaking and poignant, the film is especially renowned for its distinctive style. Composed of 65,000 frames of oil painting on canvas, it closely resembles Van Gogh’s artistry and took 125 artists six years to complete. The film proudly claims to be the “world’s first fully painted film.”
Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, Loving Vincent currently holds an 85% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The film’s remarkable visual style, achieved through painstakingly hand-painted frames, offers a deeply immersive experience that brings Van Gogh’s world to life in a unique way. Co-directors DK and Hugh Welchman, who led this groundbreaking project, released another fully painted film, The Peasants, in 2023. This new work is inspired by the artwork of young Polish artists from the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries. Loving Vincent is currently streaming on AMC+.
21. Your Name (2016):
Your Name follows two high school students who mysteriously swap bodies in the lead-up to a rare comet. This Japanese animated film is celebrated for its captivating twist, memorable soundtrack, and unique narrative approach. It combines a touching teen romance with profound themes of cultural identity and disaster.
The film is available in both its original Japanese version and an English dub. Well-received for its story and style, Your Name holds an impressive 98% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Its stunning animation and emotional depth have made it a favorite among audiences worldwide. The film’s exploration of connection and memory resonates deeply, enhancing its impact as a modern classic. Toho Studios in Japan is also working on a live-action adaptation. Your Name is currently available for streaming on Crunchyroll.
20. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993):
Directed by Henry Selick and produced by Tim Burton, The Nightmare Before Christmas is a cherished classic for both Halloween and the holiday season. This stop-motion animated film follows Jack Skellington, the King of Halloween Town, as he attempts to take over Christmas during a midlife crisis.
The film features a memorable score by Danny Elfman and the voice talents of Chris Sarandon, Catherine O’Hara, and Paul Reubens. Based on a poem Tim Burton wrote while working as a Disney animator in the 1980s, The Nightmare Before Christmas has developed a dedicated cult following. It has inspired concerts, spin-off comics, video games, toys, and even a seasonal overlay at Disney’s Haunted Mansion in both Disneyland and Tokyo Disneyland. Its unique blend of dark whimsy and festive cheer has made it a perennial favorite, celebrated for its inventive animation and imaginative world. The film is currently available for streaming on Disney+ and Hulu.
19. Toy Story (1995):
Toy Story is the first of three Pixar films on this list, marking the studio’s debut feature film and the first fully computer-animated feature film. As one of the top movies of the 1990s, Toy Story follows a group of sentient toys, where a new astronaut toy, Buzz Lightyear, challenges the cowboy Woody for the title of their owner’s favorite. The film features voice performances by Tim Allen and Tom Hanks and was directed by John Lasseter.
The movie has led to three sequels, with Toy Story 5 currently in development. The original trilogy is highly acclaimed, with Toy Story and Toy Story 2 each holding a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and Toy Story 3 maintaining a 98% rating. Praised for its groundbreaking animation and heartfelt storytelling, Toy Story has set a high standard for animated films. It continues to captivate audiences of all ages with its timeless charm and imaginative world. Toy Story is available for streaming on Disney+.
18. Coraline (2009):
Laika Studios is renowned for its exceptional stop-motion animated films, including ParaNorman, Kubo and the Two Strings, and Missing Link. However, its first feature film, Coraline, directed by Henry Selick, stands out as a children’s horror masterpiece.
Based on the young adult novel by Neil Gaiman, Coraline follows a young girl named Coraline who discovers a sinister alternate universe behind a secret door. The film’s unique blend of eerie visuals and captivating storytelling has earned it a cult following, with a 91% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Coraline is praised for its inventive animation and chilling atmosphere, setting a high standard in the genre. Its influence extends beyond the screen, inspiring various adaptations and a lasting impact on audiences. Coraline is currently available for streaming on Max.
17. Persepolis (2007):
Persepolis, based on the graphic memoir by Marjane Satrapi, is a biographical drama depicting Satrapi’s life after the Iranian Revolution. The film is notable for its predominantly black-and-white animation style, staying true to its graphic novel origins.
Premiering at the Cannes Film Festival, Persepolis won the Jury Prize and was nominated for Best Animated Feature at the Academy Awards. It holds an impressive 96% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The film’s powerful narrative and distinctive visual style have earned it widespread acclaim, making it a standout in the realm of animated cinema. Persepolis offers a poignant and visually striking portrayal of personal and political upheaval, reflecting its rich source material. It is available for rent on YouTube, Amazon Prime, Google Play, and Apple TV.
16. Ratatouille (2007):
“Anyone can cook,” and Ratatouille, a film about a rat aspiring to become a chef, embodies this spirit. Featuring Patton Oswalt and directed by Brad Bird, Ratatouille stands out among Pixar’s impressive roster for its compelling storytelling and stunning visuals.
The film won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and received four additional nominations. Thirteen years after its release, Ratatouille inspired an unauthorized fan musical, which led to a virtual concert raising over $1.9 million for The Actors Fund during the COVID-19 pandemic. Its influence extends into pop culture, with notable references such as the Raccacoonie parody in Everything Everywhere All at Once. Celebrated for its creativity, emotional depth, and memorable characters, Ratatouille remains a beloved classic. It is currently available for streaming on Disney+.
15. Anastasia (1997):
“Anastasia is a musical that weaves together historical fiction and romance, focusing on the dramatic end of the Romanov dynasty and the escape of the youngest daughter of the deposed tsar. While the film includes some elements based on real events and characters, it leans more towards a fairy tale than historical accuracy.
The film stars Meg Ryan, John Cusack, Kelsey Grammer, and Christopher Lloyd, and was directed by Don Bluth and Gary Goldman. Bluth, who began his career as an artist at Disney, went on to create classic animated films such as The Secret of NIMH, An American Tail, The Land Before Time, and All Dogs Go to Heaven. Despite similarities to Disney films of the time, Anastasia was produced in collaboration with Fox Animation Studios. This enchanting film is celebrated for its memorable songs and lush animation, capturing the imagination of audiences both young and old. Its engaging storyline and beautiful visuals make it a timeless favorite. Since Disney acquired 20th Century Fox in 2019, Anastasia has been added to Disney’s catalog and is now available for streaming on Disney+.
14. Fantastic Planet (1973):
Fantastic Planet is an adult-oriented sci-fi animated film that serves as an allegory about humans living on an unusual planet dominated by colossal humanoid aliens. Its experimental approach to animation and storytelling sets it apart in the genre.
The film won the Special Prize at the 1973 Cannes Film Festival and holds a 91% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. It was also the first animated film to receive a PG rating from the MPAA in the U.S. With a brief runtime of 71 minutes, it is the shortest film on this list. Fantastic Planet is available for streaming on Max, Plex, and the Roku Channel. Renowned for its striking visual style and innovative narrative, Fantastic Planet continues to captivate audiences with its surreal and thought-provoking content. Its unique blend of science fiction and social commentary has cemented its status as a cult classic. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this groundbreaking film that challenges conventional animation and storytelling.
13. Anomalisa (2015):
Anomalisa is a psychological stop-motion comedy-drama by Charlie Kaufman, based on his 2005 audio play of the same name. Starring David Thewlis and Jennifer Jason Leigh, the film provides a haunting and introspective look at modern loneliness and human connection.
The film premiered at the Telluride Film Festival and earned a nomination for Best Animated Feature Film at the Oscars. It has been praised by critics and currently holds a 91% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Anomalisa is available for rent on YouTube, Amazon Prime, Google Play, and Apple TV. This unique film stands out for its innovative stop-motion animation and deeply resonant storytelling. Its exploration of existential themes through a seemingly ordinary life brings a fresh perspective to the genre. With its rich character development and emotional depth, Anomalisa invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences of connection and isolation. Don’t miss the chance to experience this thought-provoking and visually stunning film.
12. My Neighbor Totoro (1988):
Directed by Hayao Miyazaki and animated by Studio Ghibli, My Neighbor Totoro tells the charming story of two sisters and their encounters with the forest spirits in rural Japan. Set in the 1950s, the film beautifully captures the magic and wonder of childhood in the countryside.
The film was initially dubbed in English in 1989 and was re-dubbed in 2004, featuring voice performances by Dakota Fanning, Elle Fanning, and Timothy Daly. Totoro, the titular forest spirit, has become a cultural icon and the mascot for Studio Ghibli. My Neighbor Totoro is available for streaming on Max. This beloved classic is renowned for its whimsical animation and heartfelt storytelling, making it a timeless favorite for audiences of all ages. Its gentle narrative and stunning visuals offer a nostalgic journey into a world where nature and fantasy intertwine. My Neighbor Totoro remains a quintessential example of Miyazaki’s masterful ability to create enchanting and universally appealing films. Dive into this magical experience and let the spirit of Totoro captivate your imagination.
11. Fantasia (1940):
“Fantasia is arguably the most experimental film ever released by Disney. Instead of following a singular plot, the film showcases eight classical music pieces conducted by Leopold Stokowski and visually interpreted by Disney’s animators. Each segment is dialogue-free and accompanied by the Philadelphia Orchestra.
The film is best known for its adaptation of Paul Dukas’s The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, featuring Mickey Mouse and animated brooms. However, many of the other segments are more abstract and less narrative. Fantasia holds a 95% rating on Rotten Tomatoes but has not been without controversy. Early issues included a plagiarism lawsuit and criticism over its scientific depiction of the universe’s birth, while later critiques have addressed racial insensitivity. In the 1960s, Walt Disney personally oversaw the removal of a racially insensitive centaur character, and since then, only the edited version has been released. Disney attempted to follow up with Fantasia 2000, but it did not capture the experimental spirit of the original. The film’s innovative approach to animation and music remains a significant influence in the industry. Fantasia is celebrated for its bold artistic vision and continues to be a unique experience for audiences. The film is available for streaming on Disney+.
10. Coco (2017):
Another Pixar film, Coco, follows a young boy who becomes trapped in the Land of the Dead during Día de los Muertos. The movie explores themes of generational trauma, the power of music, and the importance of family connections.
Featuring an all-Latino principal cast, including Anthony Gonzalez, Gael García Bernal, Benjamin Bratt, and Edward James Olmos, many of these actors also voiced characters in the Spanish-language version. Coco won two Academy Awards for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song and was named Best Animated Film of 2017 by the National Board of Review. The film is praised for its vibrant visuals and authentic representation of Mexican culture and traditions. Coco delivers a heartwarming and visually stunning experience, celebrating the beauty of family heritage and the enduring power of music. It is available for streaming on Disney+.
9. My Life as a Courgette (2016):
Also known as My Life as a Zucchini, My Life as a Courgette is a French-Swiss stop-motion animation film that explores a young boy’s life in an orphanage. While the film features colorful characters and whimsical visuals, it also addresses profound themes like abandonment and the quest for belonging.
With an impressive 99% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, the film was nominated for an Oscar for Best Animated Feature. It also won two César Awards for Best Animated Film and Best Adapted Screenplay. The film is celebrated for its unique animation style and its ability to convey deep emotions through its artful storytelling. My Life as a Courgette offers a touching and heartfelt portrayal of childhood and resilience. It is available to rent on YouTube, Amazon Prime, Google Play, and Apple TV.
8. Sleeping Beauty (1959):
Disney’s Golden and Silver Ages were marked by the release of many classic animated films, including Snow White, Bambi, Lady and the Tramp, 101 Dalmatians, and Cinderella. Among these, Sleeping Beauty stands out as perhaps the most visually rich, featuring an art style inspired by pre-Renaissance tapestry. Its intricate and vibrant visuals set it apart from its peers, creating a fairy tale world of unparalleled beauty.
Despite a decade-long production and a hefty budget of $6 million, Sleeping Beauty initially struggled at the box office. However, its subsequent re-releases and enduring cultural impact have cemented its place as a cherished Disney princess film. The film also introduced the formidable character Maleficent, who later starred in her live-action film series with Maleficent (2014) and Maleficent: Mistress of Evil (2019). Sleeping Beauty is currently available for streaming on Disney+, offering a timeless experience for new generations of viewers.
7. I Lost My Body (2019):
I Lost My Body is not a film for children it can be quite viscerally disturbing at times. This French animated horror drama follows a severed hand navigating through Paris as it searches for its body a Moroccan delivery boy named Naoufel, who lost it in a carpentry accident.
Despite its macabre premise, I Lost My Body offers a profound and beautiful exploration of themes such as community, place, and belonging. Directed by Jérémy Clapin and adapted from Guillaume Laurant’s novel Happy Hand, the film premiered at the 2019 Cannes Film Festival Critics’ Week, where it made history as the first animated feature to win the Nespresso Grand Prize. Its unique storytelling and striking visual style have captivated audiences and critics alike, leading to its win of two César Awards and an Oscar nomination for Best Animated Feature. The film’s haunting and lyrical narrative, combined with its innovative animation techniques, make it a standout piece in contemporary cinema. I Lost My Body is currently available for streaming on Netflix, offering a compelling and artistic experience for viewers.
6. Grave of the Fireflies (1988):
Grave of the Fireflies is one of Studio Ghibli’s darkest films. Directed by Isao Takahata, the movie portrays the tragic struggle of two children trying to survive the ravages of war in 1940s Japan.
This profoundly sad film is not intended for children. It was initially shown as a double feature with the much lighter My Neighbor Totoro. Notably, it was the only theatrical Studio Ghibli film, before From Up on Poppy Hill in 2011, for which Disney did not hold North American distribution rights. Roger Ebert praised it as an “emotional experience so powerful that it forces a rethinking of animation.” The film’s haunting and realistic portrayal of war’s impact on innocent lives has garnered widespread acclaim for its emotional depth and storytelling. Unfortunately, Grave of the Fireflies is not currently available for rent or streaming in the US, making it a challenging film to access for those interested in experiencing this poignant piece of animation.
5. Beauty and the Beast (1991):
Disney began exploring adaptations of Jeanne-Marie Leprince de Beaumont’s fairytale Beauty and the Beast in the 1930s and again in the 1950s. However, it was during the Disney Renaissance era (1989-1999) that the studio finally produced an animated musical version of the beloved tale. This era also introduced other iconic films such as The Lion King, The Little Mermaid, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Aladdin, Mulan, and Hercules.
Beauty and the Beast follows Belle, who falls in love with a prince cursed to live as a fearsome beast in the French countryside. The film features a score by Alan Menken and lyrics by Howard Ashman, who had previously worked together on The Little Mermaid. Tragically, Ashman passed away from AIDS-related complications just six months before the film’s release, and Beauty and the Beast was dedicated to his memory. The film’s enchanting music and timeless story have left a lasting impact, securing its place as one of Disney’s most cherished classics. It received Academy Awards for Best Original Score and Best Original Song and is available for streaming on Sling and Disney+.
4. Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988):
Who Framed Roger Rabbit is often debated as an animated film, though it’s not entirely animated. Directed by Robert Zemeckis, this film is notable for its innovative mix of animation and live-action, which sparked renewed interest in the animation genre. The film’s unique approach was groundbreaking at the time, blending seamlessly with its noir-style narrative and complex storytelling.
Adapted from the novel Who Censored Roger Rabbit, the movie is a noir-style crime comedy featuring a cartoon character who is falsely accused of murder, alongside a human private detective investigating the case. The film stars Bob Hoskins, Christopher Lloyd, and Stubby Kaye in live-action roles, with voice work by Charles Fleischer, Kathleen Turner, and Mel Blanc. The visual and narrative creativity, along with its memorable characters, have contributed to its lasting appeal. It has developed a cult following and was honored in 2016 with a place in the National Film Registry at the Library of Congress for its cultural, historical, and aesthetic significance. It’s available for streaming on Disney+.
3. The Iron Giant (1999):
The Iron Giant is an animated science fiction film and the directorial debut of Brad Bird, who would later direct acclaimed films such as The Incredibles. Set in 1950s Maine, the story follows a lonely boy who forms an unexpected friendship with a giant alien robot. The film features the voice talents of Jennifer Aniston, Harry Connick Jr., and Vin Diesel as the robot.
Drawing inspiration from Ted Hughes’s 1968 book The Iron Man, which Hughes wrote for his children following the death of their mother, Sylvia Plath, the film incorporates elements that are both emotionally resonant and visually striking. It features a moving score by the Czech Philharmonic and its artistic style is influenced by the works of Norman Rockwell, Edward Hopper, and N.C. Wyeth, giving it a nostalgic and timeless quality. The film’s profound and heartwarming story, coupled with its strong anti-gun message, has earned it a special place in the hearts of many viewers. The Iron Giant remains a beloved classic for its compelling narrative and memorable animation. It is available for streaming on Sling and Paramount+.
2. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018):
Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is an animated superhero film that tells the origin story of Miles Morales and his encounters with other Spider-Men as they unite to save the city and the multiverse from the villainous Kingpin.
The film features a talented cast including Shameik Moore, Jake Johnson, Hailee Steinfeld, Mahershala Ali, Brian Tyree Henry, Lily Tomlin, John Mulaney, Nicolas Cage, and Liev Schreiber. It was succeeded by Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, which premiered in 2023, and Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse, initially scheduled for 2024 but delayed due to the SAG-AFTRA strike. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse won the Oscar for Best Animated Feature Film and was widely acclaimed for its groundbreaking storytelling and innovative animation. The film’s unique visual style and dynamic narrative have set a new standard in animation. Its success has also paved the way for the continued exploration of the Spider-Verse in future installments. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is available for streaming on Hulu with Live TV and Fubo.
1. Spirited Away (2001):
Written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki, Spirited Away is a renowned fantasy film from Studio Ghibli. It follows the story of Chihiro, a ten-year-old girl who becomes trapped in a mystical spirit realm. To save her parents from the sinister witch Yubaba, Chihiro must navigate through this enchanting world.
For 19 years, Spirited Away held the record as the highest-grossing film in Japan. It also achieved a historic milestone by being the first and so far, only non-English-language animated film to win the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. The film was distributed in North America by Walt Disney Pictures, thanks to John Lasseter’s influence. The English-language version features a cast including Daveigh Chase, Michael Chiklis, Tara Strong, Susan Egan, and John Ratzenberger. Spirited Away is currently available for streaming on Max. Praised for its imaginative storytelling and breathtaking animation, Spirited Away remains a beloved classic in the world of cinema. Its unique blend of folklore, magic, and heartfelt emotion continues to captivate audiences of all ages. This masterpiece not only showcases Miyazaki’s extraordinary vision but also stands as a testament to the universal appeal of Studio Ghibli’s enchanting films.
Final Thoughts
The 30 Best Animated Movies Of All Time offers a captivating journey through the rich and diverse world of animation. From pioneering classics like Disney’s Fantasia and Studio Ghibli’s My Neighbor Totoro to groundbreaking modern films like Coco and Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, this list celebrates the art of animation across various styles and genres. Each film selected not only showcases exceptional storytelling and artistry but also highlights the ways animation continues to push boundaries and captivate audiences of all ages.
The list spans decades, illustrating how animation has evolved from the early days of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs to contemporary masterpieces. While some films, like Shrek and Toy Story, have left a significant mark on the industry, others, such as The Last Unicorn and The Thief and The Cobbler, remain beloved cult classics. Whether through the innovative use of CGI, the charm of stop-motion, or the beauty of hand-drawn animation, these films demonstrate the limitless creativity and emotional depth that animation can offer. Ultimately, this collection of animated films is a testament to the genre’s ability to transcend age, offering profound experiences that entertain, inspire, and move audiences worldwide. Each film holds a special place in the hearts of viewers and continues to influence the world of animation for future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
What makes an animated movie one of the best of all time?
The best animated movies are distinguished by their exceptional storytelling, artistic innovation, and emotional impact. They often combine creative visuals, memorable characters, and compelling narratives that resonate with audiences of all ages. These films also reflect advancements in animation technology and techniques, setting benchmarks for future works.
How were the 30 animated movies selected for this list?
The movies were chosen based on a combination of critical acclaim, cultural impact, and influence within the animation industry. Consideration was given to both classic and modern films that have made significant contributions to the art of animation and have been widely celebrated by audiences and critics alike.
Are all the movies on the list suitable for all ages?
While many of the films are family-friendly and suitable for audiences of all ages, some may contain themes or content that could be more appropriate for older viewers. It’s always a good idea to check individual movie ratings and reviews to ensure they are suitable for specific age groups.
How do these animated films compare to each other?
Each film on the list brings its unique qualities to the table. Comparing them can be challenging due to differences in animation styles, storytelling approaches, and cultural contexts. The list aims to highlight a diverse range of films, showcasing a wide array of experiences and innovations in animation.
Are there any films on the list that are lesser-known?
Yes, the list includes both widely recognized classics and lesser-known gems. This selection aims to celebrate a broad spectrum of animated films, acknowledging both mainstream successes and beloved cult classics that may not have achieved the same level of commercial success but are highly regarded by enthusiasts and critics.
