Top 10 Greatest Non-Disney Female Animated Characters in Movies

Ellie makes us all wish that woolly mammoths weren’t extinct. Of course, for much of her life, Ellie doesn’t even realize that she is a mammoth. Raised by opossums, she’s gifted in climbing trees and sleeping upside-down, despite her large size. Even after coming to terms with her true species, Ellie doesn’t abandon her opossum heritage. She understands that families can come in a variety of shapes and sizes, which Manny also learns from his diverse pack. Strong-willed and sometimes stubborn, Ellie isn’t easily won over. If you want to flatter her, though, just complement her gigantic buttocks.

Whether the sun is shining or it’s raining hamburgers, Sam Sparks never fails to brighten up our day. Perky, quirky, and enthusiastic, this weather girl has no shortage of on-screen charisma. Behind her attractive appearance however, is a big brain just waiting to flourish. Since TV audiences can be so superficial, Sam is afraid to let people know just how smart she really is. With some help from a fellow nerd, though, she finds that there’s nothing wrong with wearing glasses and a jello scrunchie. Sweet on the outside andnutritious on the inside, we could eat her right up.

Coraline Jones is a whiny, impatient, and selfish 11-year-old girl. And you know what? That actually makes her surprisingly relatable. Let’s be honest. We could all be a little bratty as children and get on our parents’ nerves. Any kid in Coraline’s shoes would be easily tempted by the Other World, which seems like nothing but fun and games on the surface. Upon looking deeper into her Other Mother’s button eyes, however, Coraline finds that this parallel universe is all a lie. When her real parents are taken captive, she must overcome her fears and put her wits to the test. As creepy as matters get, Coraline’s bravery helps the audience get through the dark times.

Astrid is one Viking we’d all want in our corner when dragons attack. Aside from being one of the most beautiful young ladies on the Island of Berk, Astrid is also quick-witted and highly skillful in battle. Where the other students in her Dragon Training class are mostly goof-offs, she remains focused at all times and committed to protecting her home. Like her fellow Vikings, Astrid firmly believes that all dragons are savage beasts. Once Hiccup opens her eyes, however, she discovers that a dragon can be a Viking’s best friend if properly trained.

Wyldstyle is one of the most inventive residents of the LEGO universe. Of course, you could probably figuref that out based on her eccentric nickname. This Master Builder strives to stand out from all the rest with her colorful appearance, creative mind, and lively spirit. As tough, independent, and distinctive as Wyldstyle is, part of her still feels like she could be much more. Through the seemingly ordinary Emmet, Wyldstyle comes to understand what it truly means to be special. Plus, she used to go out with Batman. Everything about this chick is awesome!

Mothers rarely take center stage in animated films. That’s just one of the many reasons why Mrs. Brisby is such a unique protagonist. The widow of Jonathan Brisby, this little mouse devotes her life to protecting her children. When her youngest son, Timmy, becomes deathly ill, she sets out on a daring journey to save him. Although the outside world is overrun with many dangers, love ultimately motivates this courageous mother to keep moving forward. Aside from being kind and dedicated, Mrs. Brisby proves herself to be much stronger than even she thought possible.

María Posada is certainly a woman worth fighting for, but La Muerte is a woman to die for. The Land of the Remembered is like an eternal fiesta under La Muerte’s reign. Drawing parallels to the female folk saint Santa Muerte, she is kindhearted, honest, and beaming with life. La Muerte is essentially the polar opposite of her husband, Xibalba, who rules over the Land of the Forgotten. Despite their differences, neither of these spirits can resist a good bet. Although Xibalba constantly attempts to win by cheating, La Muerte shows him that the purest heart always comes out on top.

Cartoonist Marjane Satrapi brings her autobiographical graphic novel to life in this Oscar-nominated animated feature. “Persepolis” brilliantly presents its themes regarding war, religion, and family through the eyes of a child coming of age. Born in Iran, Marjane grows up surrounded by political conflict, although she’s a little too naïve to fully comprehend such issues. Her world might be in black and white, but Marjane lights up the screen with her rebellious personality. Upon reaching maturity, she comes to realize just how challenging life can be. Even as Marji leaves the carefree days of childhood behind and discovers a wider world, she holds onto her memories and stays true to herself.

“Anastasia” is often mistaken for a Disney movie and its titular heroine could certainly give the likes of Ariel or Belle a run for their money. Very loosely based on the lost Russian princess, Anastasia suffers from amnesia and grows up unaware that she’s royalty. Despite having no recollection of who she is or where she came from, Anya holds onto the hope that she’ll one day belong to a family. It’s impossible not to be won over by her passion, resilience, and charm. Because of this, the audience roots for Anya on her journey to the past every step of the way.

Before we get to our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions:

Princess Bala
“Antz” (1998)

Master Tigress
“Kung Fu Panda” (2008)

Rita Malone
“Flushed Away” (2006)

Crysta
“FernGully: The Last Rainforest” (1992)

Roxanne ‘Roxie’ Ritchi
“Megamind” (2010)

Ginger
“Chicken Run” (2000)

Just as Shrek isn’t a conventional fairy tale hero, Fiona is far, far from a conventional princess. For example, you’d never see Cinderella or Snow White passing gas. This is one princess who’s more than capable of taking care of herself. Nevertheless, Fiona is brought up to believe that she must wait for her knight to come in order to live happily ever after. Once Fiona starts to let out her inner ogre, however, she breaks every rule in the storybook. By accepting who she is on the inside and outside, Fiona is finally able to see what true love really looks like.

Do you agree with our list? Who’s your favorite non-Disney female animated character? For more entertaining Top 10s published everyday, be sure to subscribe to MsMojo.