Top 10 Best Animated Movies of 2024

“Orion and the Dark” may be more family-friendly than the last animated film that Charlie Kaufman wrote, “Anomalisa.” Being a Kaufman production, though, the narrative is never straightforward, the humor is endlessly inventive, and the protagonist is a highly relatable neurotic. While Orion is too young to endure a midlife crisis like some of Kaufman’s other protagonists, his universal fear of the dark is something we’ve all endured, albeit perhaps not to such hysterical extremes. Although much of the film is draped in the literal Dark, director Sean Charmatz[a] also injects vibrant colors that cleverly personify the entities of night. Based on Emma Yarlett’s picture book, “Orion and the Dark” has the essence of a bedtime story sure to offer sweet - occasionally surreal - dreams.

Moana’s latest voyage was conceived as a Disney+ series. To the surprise of fans, it was announced that the project had been modified into a full-fledged sequel, making a splash in theaters nine months later. While “Moana 2” has an episodic feel, we’re glad Disney gave it the big screen treatment. On a technical level, the water effects are beyond realistic, plunging the audience into a high-seas adventure worthy of a theme park experience. While much of the creative talent has changed hands, the animation is as stunning as ever, the songs are still catchy enough, and the voice work remains top-notch. Auliʻi Cravalho and Dwayne Johnson are again at the story’s heart. What could be better than having these two back?

Premiering to praise at Annecy in June 2024 before receiving an Oscar-qualifying run during awards season, this fully animated “Looney Tunes” movie deserves to blow up at the box office upon expanding to more theaters next year. A love letter to Termite Terrace alumni like Bob Clampett, “The Day the Earth Blew Up” is also a fun buddy picture, a charming love story, and a laugh-a-minute comedy. Every frame is packed with ingenious references to sci-fi and classic cartoons, but the Easter eggs never overshadow the character dynamics. Eric Bauza[b]’s ability to transition between channeling Daffy Duck and Porky Pig is a voice acting feat. Director Peter Browngardt[c] has made a testament to why these characters are timeless and deserve more respect in today’s world.

With biblical undertones, “Transformers One” is best described as “The Prince of Egypt” with giant robots. This origin story centers on two friends as close as brothers. That makes it all the more tragic knowing these future leaders are headed down opposite paths, bound to become mortal enemies. Director Josh Cooley is no stranger to action figures, having won an Oscar for “Toy Story 4.” He’s made a film that’ll not only resonate with viewers who grew up with the toys, but “Transformers” shows as well. It’s closer to “Beast Wars” than the live-action movies. While the film may awaken your inner child, it’s also a reminder that “Transformers” can be surprisingly adult, even Shakespearean. In every sense, it’s more than meets… well, you know.

This French animated film seems simple on the surface, both aesthetically and thematically. Following a misunderstanding, a mother tries to make amends with her young daughter by cooking a special chicken dish. Making the meal is one thing, but acquiring the most crucial ingredient turns into a literal wild chicken chase. What starts as a mother-daughter story spirals into a tale about community with everyone becoming unusually invested in Linda’s supper. The vibrant use of colors highlights how food can bring a diverse group of people together. Food can also be therapeutic, as this chicken dish guides Linda and her mother through their grief. Like a bowl of hot chicken soup, Chiara Malta and Sébastien Laudenbach[d] have made a film that’s good for the soul.

With zero dialogue, “Flow” is a masterclass of visual storytelling. Director Gints Zilbalodis[e] immerses us in a naturalistic environment that looks like our world, yet feels mystical. Among the forest’s animal population is a stray black cat who walks alone. Walking becomes next to impossible as a flood submerges the land, putting the cat in the same boat as several other animal castaways. While much of the film takes place on the water, “Flow” is a gravity-defying experience that practically lifts the audience from their chairs. As transcendent as “Flow” may be, it tells an easy-to-follow story about a found family. Despite being different species, the characters come to see each other as a pack. Together, they’re a force greater than nature itself.

As much as we yearn for original stories, especially from studios like Pixar, some cinematic worlds demand to be expanded upon. Since the original “Inside Out” was about growing pains, it only makes sense that Riley’s story would continue. Whether or not you grew up with the first film, the sequel’s portrayal of Anxiety struck a chord with viewers of all ages. Maya Hawke’s wonderfully anxious performance is just one way that “Inside Out 2” evolves the franchise’s themes with a mix of humor, honesty, and limitless creativity. Anxiety summed up what many of us felt in 2024. That might be one of the reasons “Inside Out 2” became the highest-grossing animated feature ever, bringing comfort when we needed it most.

Technology has helped animation get to where it is today. However, artificial intelligence can’t replace an artist’s touch, despite what Silicon Valley and various CEOs think. This is apparent throughout Wallace and Gromit’s second feature, which was meticulously crafted by hand. Taking a nuanced approach, “Vengeance Most Fowl” explores the advantages of technology in innovative and efficient hands. Yet, the film is just as much about what happens when tech is used irresponsibly. Enter Feathers McGraw, a villain who can be menacing and hilarious without ever changing the blank expression on his face. The return of this fan-favorite foe offers something old for longtime viewers while bringing plenty of new ideas to the table. Nick Park proves again that he doesn’t miss.

From the Oscar-winning “Harvie Krumpet” to the tragically underrated “Mary and Max,” those who’ve been following Adam Elliot’s career will immediately recognize his signature in “Memoir of a Snail.” Like Elliot’s past works, this stop-motion film is depressingly funny, bleakly whimsical, and deeply personal. “Memoir of a Snail” is something more, though, traversing the cycle of loss and abuse - as well as how to escape it. Sarah Snook’s narration infuses the protagonist with empathy, making you laugh one minute and bawl your eyes out the next. Although “Memoir of a Snail” will break you down, it unexpectedly builds you up again with inspiring moments that feel earned. Just when you think you have the film figured out, there’s more going on underneath the shell.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

Po Still Packs a Powerful Paw of Fury

Kaiju, Robots, Superheroes, & Baseball, What’s Not to Like?

Like One’s Imagination, The Animation Here is Boundless

A Bittersweet Story of Friendship, Regret, & The Creative Drive

A Pharrell Documentary Told With Legos That’s Sure to Leave You Feeling Happy

2024 gave us a few animated films about parenting and technology. None struck a balance like “The Wild Robot.” Speaking of balance, the film’s aesthetic seamlessly blends cutting-edge animation and the warmth of the illustrated novels that inspired it. While the visual storytelling makes us feel one with nature, the voiceover performances from Lupita Nyong'o, Pedro Pascal, and everyone else are at the root of the film’s humanity. We know the characters are primarily animals and machines. Yet, “The Wild Robot” is a timely reflection of our society. It’s a vicious world, but if wildlife and a wild robot can learn the value of community, maybe people can too. It’s a personal best from director Chris Sanders and one of the year’s best movies, period.

What’s your favorite animated movie of the year? Let us know in the comments.

https://youtu.be/dbPs2PVtU-o?si=QXGRkCwdsWvBAcU2&t=18
[b]BOW (like "take a") zuh: https://youtu.be/gaNO4KykWMY?si=ISduUe7M-dennS8D
[c]Brown-GART:
https://youtu.be/kG5KXjyv5Kg?si=8CkTbP2s0TA2X1y6
[d]SAY-bass-TYEN LOW-den-BACK:
https://youtu.be/due2Fb8_zaE?si=FZA7RkzeRoItXl-Q
[e]G (like gulp) INTS ZEEL/ZIL-ba-LOW-diss:
https://youtu.be/YkncKAGzFH8?si=aCBk0Xvv8DvhscXU