Top 10 Most Underrated Pixar Movies

#10: Elio (2025)

Pixars latest feature has debuted to less than stellar results at the box office. But it might be the audiences loss more than the studios, as Elio has already proven itself a delightful, out-of-this-world take on the coming-of-age genre. The movie follows the space-obsessed protagonist as he ascends to the Communiverse and meets a slew of new alien friends. In many ways, its a spiritual successor to cult sci-fi adventures like Explorers and Flight of the Navigator, complete with a nostalgic tone that reminds us equally of Pixars golden years. Although its too soon to tell if it will earn a place amongst its forebears, its peculiar characters and eye-popping visuals are enough to remind us that the studio can still shoot for the stars.

#9: Monsters University (2013)

This origin story of Mike and Sulleys brotherhood deserves credit for being Pixars only prequel to date. In capturing the two as enemies-turned-friends during their college days, Monsters University does what any good follow-up should do by reminding us why we love the original. Reuniting Billy Crystal and John Goodman, the movie expands upon the universes concept in intriguing ways while retaining the heart that brings it all together. Although the story is a tad predictable and reminiscent of one too many college comedies, it still works thanks to its innocent humor and earnest message. Mike and Sulleys journey to the Scare Floor is filled with speed bumps and harsh truths, but that only enhances their appeal for older fans who grew up alongside them.

#8: Soul (2020)

Surely, a movie that notched Pixar its astounding 11th Oscar for Best Animated Feature couldnt be considered underrated, right? Well, Soul is definitely a special case. Having gone straight to Disney+ due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it was largely denied the widespread appeal that its near unanimous critical acclaim set it up for. And thats really too bad, as it backs up its glorious animation with a diverse cast of likable characters and a thought-provoking story. Its set-up may inspire comparisons to Inside Out or Coco. But Soul distinguishes itself with an electrifying, jazz-infused score and its ambitious handling of ideas regarding how we judge the value of our lives. Its the kind of movie that can affirm or change your life in equal measure.

#7: Brave (2012)

Bearing a strong resemblance to Disneys typical princess stories, Brave tends to provoke a larger share of comparisons than the average Pixar movie. Even with an Oscar to its name, its still not exactly thought of as a classic. But considering that it was helmed by Pixars first female director and starred its first female protagonist, it gives us plenty of reasons to celebrate it. While certain story beats are undoubtedly familiar, Brave still has plenty of things going for it, such as its flawed yet forward-thinking protagonist and a cast of the UKs best talents. And thats to say nothing of its authentic vision of the Scottish Highlands, which is given life by a stirring score that honors the storys Celtic roots.

#6: Luca (2021)

Pixar is no stranger to exploring acceptance and impossible dreams. Luca may seem like it blends in when compared to a movie like Ratatouille, but it's bolstered considerably by its wholesome take on the fish-out-of-water trope and its unique visual design. Following a pair of sea monster buddies exploring the Italian Riviera as humans, Luca takes several cues from stop-motion and the work of Hayao Miyazaki. The off-kilter, storybook-like animation gives it a charm thats entirely its own, with its lack of verisimilitude befitting a story that embraces and celebrates imperfection. Luca may not swing for the emotional fences like other Pixar movies, but its nevertheless a whimsical yet touching salute to youth and friendship thats perfect for summertime viewings.

#5: Incredibles 2 (2018)

Despite its financial success, wed argue Incredibles 2 is still owed a little more respect. With its predecessor regarded as one of the studios finest, it could be said that high expectations caused this sequel to be unfairly judged by some. But its a cut above the majority of Pixar sequels, not to mention superhero sequels. Writer/director Brad Bird shows no signs of being out of touch, with Incredibles 2 pulling off a hilarious role reversal in the lovable Parr family that brings new dimensions to its action. With Helen kicking some major butt as Elastigirl and Bob stuck at home with the kids, the movie delivers a story thats as endearing and upstanding as the titular family, making it worth its 14-year wait.

#4: Turning Red (2022)

Another work relegated to Disney+, Turning Red was additionally hampered by insensitive criticisms over its cross-cultural story and frank portrayal of puberty. Of course, you dont have to look far to understand that these are the movies greatest strengths. Following pre-teen Mei Lee as she experiences profound changes while contending with a family curse, Turning Red is at its best when normalizing difficult topics. In addition to its invigorating humor, catchy music, and all too relatable themes, it's a milestone for Pixar in terms of representation. Headed by the companys first all-female creative team, Turning Red reflects this evolution through its personal yet universal tone. Its simultaneously a throwback for older viewers and a warm hug for kids who might need it later in life.

#3: Cars (2006)

The Cars franchise hasnt exactly produced great returns with its overabundance of sequels and spin-offs. However, that saturation makes it easy to forget that the first installment does a number of things quite well. Cars eases us into its world of anthropomorphic vehicles through precisely detailed animation. Each resident of Radiator Springs is given their own distinct look, while the top-notch cast manage to make us identify with Pixars most inhuman ensemble. Cars benefits especially from the late Paul Newman, who turned in his final feature performance as Doc Hudson. Newmans gruff and somber voice effectively elevates the movie beyond its kid-friendly nature. He offers some much-needed guidance to Lightning McQueen and audiences alike, encouraging compassion and an appreciation for the smaller things in life.

#2: Onward (2020)

If any Pixar movie is a victim of circumstance, its this one. How ironic, since Onward is a movie the world couldve used in the spring of 2020. Blending fantasy with a contemporary landscape, the movie follows elf brothers Ian and Barley on a quest to reconnect with their deceased father. Onward thrives on its imaginative world-building and the heartfelt bond between its two protagonists, whose hilarious differences never stop them from sharing a life-changing experience. Thanks to Chris Pratt and Tom Hollands fantastic chemistry, Onward rests comfortably in Pixars wheelhouse of addressing significant issues without sacrificing its entertainment value. Its a sincere approach to the rush of childhood adventure, reminding us that, sometimes, what were looking for was with us the whole time.

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

Finding Dory (2016)

It Treads Familiar Waters, But Still Makes a Satisfying Splash

Elemental (2023)

An Insightful Look at the Immigrant Experience Told With Exquisite Style

The Good Dinosaur (2015)

Its a Simple Story, But Still Contains Some of Pixars Best Imagery

#1: A Bugs Life (1998)

As the only one of Pixars first handful of features not to receive a sequel, A Bugs Life maintains a unique sense of individuality. But, as the title may suggest, its reputation has remained small after being released between two Toy Story movies. Granted, the movie did good business, but it definitely deserves re-examination nowadays. A playful riff on both Aesop and Seven Samurai, its story of an inventive ant defending his colony from grasshoppers is supremely entertaining. Packed to the brim with likable characters and ingenious humor, A Bugs Life is also a rich meditation on revolution and supremacy. In fact, its ability to combine family friendly thrills with hefty subject matter arguably solidified Pixar as an animation powerhouse heading into the new millennium.

Is there a Pixar movie you think doesnt get the love it deserves? Let us know down in the comments!