Top 10 Best Animated Movies of 2020

Between “Man of Tomorrow” and “Red Son,” 2020 was a busy year for Superman. His most memorable appearance, however, was in “Apokolips War.” The story unites the Justice League, Teen Titans and Suicide Squad in a nightmare scenario where Darkseid dominates the world. This ensemble piece utilizes its vast cast in inventive, haunting, and deeply emotional ways. The standout is John Constantine, who actor Matt Ryan once again practically embodies. While the film’s tailored for hardcore DC fans, the characters are so well-defined and the drama is so compelling that it achieves wider appeal. If “Apokolips War'' truly is the final entry in the DC Animated Movie Universe continuity, the filmmakers have gone out on an appropriately gritty, epic, and bittersweet note.

“Trolls World Tour” is notable for being one of 2020’s first major releases to adapt to the changing landscape, simultaneously releasing in limited theaters and on-demand. However you chose to watch it, the “Trolls” sequel provided a welcome escape, with bright imagery that leaps out at the audience like a pop-up book. The varied array of colors is complemented by a diverse soundtrack, delivering a mix of pop, rock, and more. The songs are cleverly tied into a story about different musical styles attempting to co-exist. While the film’s message probably won’t change the world, it was nonetheless a welcome one in 2020. Just because people aren’t singing the same song doesn’t mean that they can’t come together in harmony.

More than 50 years after his debut, Scooby-Doo remains a relevant name in animation. “Scoob!” pays homage to the “Scooby-Doo” formula that we’re all familiar with while also giving nods to Mystery Inc.’s lesser-known incarnations. The opening, in which the gang comes together, is reminiscent of “A Pup Named Scooby-Doo.” The Blue Falcon’s presence is a nice callback to “The Scooby-Doo/Dynomutt Hour.” Even the random cameos from celebrities like Simon Cowell feel like a callback to “The New Scooby-Doo Movies.” While “Scooby-Doo” isn’t generally known for high animation quality, “Scoob!” is one of the franchise’s most visually interesting entries, packed with Easter eggs that Saturday morning cartoon fans will appreciate. Could this be the beginning of a Hanna-Barbera Cinematic Universe?

“The Willoughbys” is based on the children’s book by Lois Lowry, although it just as easily could be mistaken for a Roald Dahl adaptation. Like many of Dahl’s stories, “The Willoughbys” revolves around precocious children and mostly neglectful adults. There’s even an eccentric candymaker! But it’s the tone, in particular, that brings to mind movies like “Willy Wonka,” “Matilda,” and “James and the Giant Peach.” The film is whimsical and sweet, but isn’t afraid to also be cynical and even mean-spirited at times. It’s refreshing to see a modern family film with an edge, but “The Willoughbys” never goes too far. The darker moments are balanced by a witty script, lively character designs by Craig Kellman, and a heartfelt moral about family.

Set before the series finale that aired five years earlier, the second “Phineas and Ferb” movie feels like catching up with close friends. This Disney+ exclusive is a strong ensemble piece, bringing together Phineas, Ferb, their gang, Dr. Doofenshmirtz, and Agent P for an out of this world adventure. The spotlight belongs to Candace, however, who matures from an antagonist figure to a protagonist we come to empathize with. The story gets to the root of Candace’s frustration, insecurities, and layered dynamic with her brothers. Despite dedicating her summer to trying to bust them, Candace loves Phineas and Ferb, who likewise show that they’d travel across the universe for their sister. It’s all tied together by candy-colored animation, catchy songs, and energetic voice work.

To North American audiences, Cartoon Saloon might not be a household name like Disney or DreamWorks. But this Irish studio has given us some of the century’s most atmospheric and beautifully drawn animated features, including “The Secret of Kells,” “Song of the Sea,” and “The Breadwinner.” “Wolfwalkers” is another worthy entry to that pantheon of Oscar nominees. Co-produced by Melusine Productions, this fantasy adventure received widespread acclaim coming out of the 2020 Toronto International Film Festival. Like many of Cartoon Saloon’s past efforts, the film tells a timeless story grounded in Celtic lore using stunning 2D animation techniques. Calling “Princess Mononoke,” “Wolf Children,” and “Brave” to mind, “Wolfwalkers” is familiar in all the right ways while still being a unique entity.

Although it technically made its U.K. debut in 2019, U.S. audiences had to wait until 2020 to revisit Mossy Bottom Farm. If the puntastic title makes you smile, then you’re guaranteed to grin throughout Shaun the Sheep’s second feature. Like its predecessor, this stop-motion adventure is a practically speechless picture, letting the expressive characters, physical comedy, and sight gags do most of the talking. It’s also refreshingly not just a retread of the 2015 Oscar nominee. The filmmakers devise an original story about aliens and government agents, but the movie never loses sight of the simple charms that make Shaun the Sheep stand out. Aardman Animations has done it again with impressive stop motion, a sharp wit, and a winning central character.

Of all the animated films that Netflix distributed this year, “Over the Moon” comes the closest to replicating the magic of Disney. That’s largely because it was directed by Glen Keane, whose resume extends from “The Little Mermaid” to “Tangled.” Like classic Disney films, “Over the Moon” uses inspirational songs to tell a timeless story with a few twists. While the film is grounded in Chinese traditions and lore, the characters and themes possess a modern sensibility. The film also has a contemporary sound that takes its cues from K-pop. “Over the Moon” not only sounds great, but the world of Lunaria is a wonder to behold. For an adventure that’s vibrant, tear-jerking, and “ultraluminary,” we’d suggest hopping aboard your rocket to the moon.

It might not be the first film to put a modern spin on a fantasy setting, but what sets “Onward” apart is its authentic portrayal of loss. This Pixar film centers on two elf brothers; one never got to know their late father while the other never got to say goodbye. Although magic exists in this universe, the film doesn’t provide any easy answers to dealing with grief. Sacrifices are made and not everybody gets the ending they envisioned. Yet, each character emerges stronger and the same can be said about the viewers. “Onward’s” theatrical window was cut short due to the pandemic, releasing digitally early. While the timing could be seen as unfortunate, audiences needed a film like this in March 2020.

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

“Mortal Kombat Legends: Scorpion’s Revenge” (2020)
Easily This Franchise’s Best Movie to Date

“The Croods: A New Age” (2020)
A Sequel Seven Years in the Making

“A Whisker Away” (2020)
For Cat & Anime Lovers Everywhere

“Lupin III: The First” (2019)
A Stunning Fusion of Japanese Artistry & 3DCG Animation

On the animation front, Pixar is frequently regarded as the best of the best. While it may’ve been tempting to award our top spot to another studio, co-directors Pete Docter and Kemp Powers truly outdid themselves with “Soul.” Following its premiere at the BFI London Film Festival, the film was met with perfect scores from The Hollywood Reporter, The Guardian, and The Playlist. Much like “Coco,” the film provides a vivid portrayal of the afterlife with music adding an essential component. But “Soul” is just as much about the impact we leave on Earth and why life is worth living. With its soulful sound, diverse cast, and meaningful story, the film not only has the potential to change your perception of animation, but your entire worldview.