Top 20 Animated Movies of the Century (So Far)
#20: “Encanto” (2021)
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While most of the members of Mirabel’s family were granted magical gifts that they used to help others, she was never given any special abilities. Although that fact made her feel alone at times, the heroine was still willing to risk everything to prevent her loved ones from losing their talents. The compelling family drama enchanted audiences with its vibrant story and ridiculously catchy songs. It also tackled issues such as generational trauma with skill and care. Although “Encanto” didn’t get much fanfare at first, it took the world by storm once it hit streaming. And since the story earned an Academy Award, it’s safe to say the world recognized that this film was a gift.
#19: “The Lego Movie” (2014)
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When the ordinary Emmet first stumbled onto an item that could stop a big bad, it didn’t seem like he had what it took to save the day. But it soon became clear that his optimism and earnestness were just what the world needed. Emmet stars in a story that has slick visuals that were made to look like stop motion animation. Not only does the style help the film stand out, but it paves the way for a wide variety of visual gags and witty jokes. “The Lego Movie’s” inclusion of characters from tons of different franchises also made the world feel big and beautiful. At the end of the day, the film built a fanbase upon its great humor and truly unique look.
#18: “Song of the Sea” (2014)
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Within the first few moments of this underrated feature, audiences are pulled in by beautiful hand-drawn animation. Beyond the bright visuals, viewers are taken into an engrossing story where a family fractured by grief is thrown in the middle of a mythological conflict. Their only chance to become whole again lies at the end of a magical adventure. Throughout the tale, the protagonists introduce audiences to important figures in Irish folklore. During each encounter, the young heroes are encouraged to lean on others and not to run away from their emotions. When that powerful message is combined with the beautiful animation and captivating mythological characters, you get a “Song of the Sea” that is worthy of being listened to.
#17: “The Breadwinner” (2017)
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This gripping story wastes no time in showing us the difficulties a young girl experiences while growing up in Afghanistan under the Taliban. Parvana’s life only becomes more challenging after her father is imprisoned. Unable to operate freely in society as herself, she pretends to be a boy to earn enough money to support her family and see her father again. The heavy story features intense and brutally realistic scenes. But it also slows down once in a while to emphasize how beautiful stories can bring light to the darkest of places. Ultimately, Parvana’s story of perseverance inspires just as much as it informs. Although it’s not the easiest film to watch, it’s a story that demands to be told.
#16: “Moana” (2016)
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In 2016, “Zootopia” told a heartwarming story that encouraged viewers not to judge anyone by outside appearances. (*xref) It was followed by a compelling adventure where protagonist Moana must journey across the ocean to save everyone on her island. During her adventure, we’re treated to powerful songs that hit as hard as tidal waves. When we’re not being blown away by music, we’re getting invested in Moana’s rocky relationship with the demigod Maui. Their forced partnership pushes both characters to grow from immature heroes to warriors worth rooting for. And their evolution leads to a beautiful conclusion that leaves you crying and cheering. In a 2016 full of great animated features, “Moana’s” tale stood out by having plenty of heart.
#15: “Frozen” (2013)
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Unless you’ve been stuck in a block of ice since 2012, it’s safe to say you’ve at least heard this modern Disney classic’s most famous song. As “Let It Go” became immensely popular outside theaters, the film became the fifth highest grossing movie of all time at the worldwide box office. A big part of its success was how it put a refreshing twist on Disney’s formula. Instead of being a damsel in distress, Princess Elsa’s a powerful royal who accidentally causes an eternal winter. While she’d usually be rescued by a dashing prince, her sister Anna is the one who steps up to save the day. “Frozen’s” clever departures from studio norms, memorable characters, and unavoidable songs all made it a pop culture phenomenon.
#14: “Coraline” (2009)
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The gorgeous and heartbreaking “Kubo and the Two Strings” is unquestionably one of Laika’s best stop motion efforts. But if we’re talking about their most beloved film, we’ve got to tell you a story about “Coraline”. This offbeat tale follows a headstrong girl who escapes from an unsatisfying life by traveling to another world. Once it becomes clear that the fantasyland she found is actually a nightmare, Coraline must outwit a sinister villain to save her soul. The film’s striking and at times terrifying imagery made it feel more mature. However, “Coraline’s” story is not only perfect for all ages, but it also has great lessons about responsibility and selflessness. Last but not least, the stop motion animation enhances every frame of this unconventional marvel.
#13: “Klaus” (2019)
During this wonderfully original holiday tale, a spoiled postman named Jesper must get a village to send thousands of letters in order to secure his inheritance. The desperate protagonist eventually convinces a man named Klaus to give away toys to local children who write letters. While Jesper only planned to help himself, he ended up improving the lives of the villagers he tried to scheme. This hilarious and heartwarming plot puts a great spin on the traditional Christmas story people are familiar with. On top of that, the film is full of fleshed out characters that have complex backstories and arcs. By fully committing to its original premise and great cast, “Klaus” positioned itself as a new Christmas classic.
#12: “Chicken Run” (2000)
Admittedly, a group of anthropomorphic chickens mounting a prison break is a pretty weird pitch for a family trip to the theater. And yet, that same kookiness is exactly why “Chicken Run” sprints past the finish line with ease. The slapstick humor just never gets old, especially when delivered by this outstanding voice cast . But, impressively, its story hasn’t gone cold, either. If anything, the social commentary is fresher now than when it first came out of the fryer in 2000. Story aside, this is practically required-viewing for its technical merits alone. “Chicken Run’s” impeccable use of claymation clucked a path to become the highest-grossing animated stop-motion film of all time. After crafting that gem, Aardman Animations films continued to impress with marvels like “Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit”.
#11: “Persepolis” (2007)
Author Marjane Satrapi gave us an unflinching look at what it was like to grow up before and after the Iranian Revolution in this animated epic. As the world changed around her, she was constantly forced to adapt to survive. Although Marjane endured plenty of painful setbacks, she always found the strength to get back up and keep moving forward. This daring film was unafraid to switch from realistic to exaggerated animated styles to make sharp points. The movie also didn’t shy away from dark and heavy events. Admittedly, it wasn’t always easy to look through Marjane’s eyes. But viewers who are willing to do so will gain a whole new perspective.
#10: “Inside Out” (2015)
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Although Riley’s head was home to five distinct feelings, Joy thought that the entire group should prioritize keeping the girl happy above all. But the bright emotion had to rethink her worldview when sadness became part of one of the kid’s core memories. This layered premise launched an adventure where there was no big villain or evil plot. Instead, the story was solely invested in showing that accepting a wide range of emotions is the key to a balanced life. That vital message lies at the beating heart of the imaginative world within Riley’s head. “Inside Out’s” story is an emotional rollercoaster that has the power to move audiences closer to embracing their own feelings.
#9: “How to Train Your Dragon 2” (2014)
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Dreamworks made our hearts soar when they released the first entry in this draconic fantasy series. Four years after introducing Hiccup and his dragon Toothless to the world, we returned to the village of Berk for an even more ambitious adventure. The sequel pits Hiccup and Toothless against a ruthless villain who wishes to use dragons as tools of war. Their quest is full of blissful highs, shocking twists, and crushing lows. Every triumph and setback is rendered with gorgeous and fluid 3D animation. And while lots of new elements are added, the film never forgets to keep deepening the relationship between Hiccup and Toothless. This sublime sequel confirmed that “How to Train Your Dragon” could soar as one of the century’s best franchises.
#8: “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish” (2022)
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Everything changes for a courageous cat once he realizes that he only has one life left. Although Puss makes a hilarious attempt to live without risk, he’s eventually pulled into the adventure that could be his last. His ambitious story is complemented by a unique animation style. The bold visuals make the introspective scenes feel every bit as dynamic as the fight sequences. While the film’s style is impressive on its own, the movie’s best quality is its ability to explore serious issues with humor and heart. The scene where Puss is completely overcome with anxiety in particular struck a chord with viewers. It was surprising that a kid’s movie that seemed to be about death turned out to be a vibrant celebration of life.
#7: “The Incredibles” (2004)
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If everyone’s super, no one is. But, somehow, the Parr family continues to stand out as a downright heroic example of the genre at its best. Mostly because, beneath the spandex, it’s not really about crime-fighting at all. Instead, it authentically explores a mid-life crisis inside a traditional nuclear family. Well, “traditional,” except for the fact they can actually go nuclear. Yeah, to put it lightly, those fight scenes are “totally wicked.” Alongside the fantastic music, nuanced character arcs, and the scene-stealing Edna Mode, this film’s legacy has stretched on long enough to make even Elastigirl jealous. It’s safe to say that “The Incredibles” is more than incredible.
#6: “Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio” (2022)
This Pinocchio tale immediately caught our eyes with intricate stop motion animation. It also took huge risks by remixing elements of the familiar story and setting it during World War 1. But what truly sets this Pinocchio story apart is its character work. Gepetto is a flawed inventor whose fear of loss prevents him from appreciating life. Instead of being an all-knowing force of good, Sebastian Cricket is making it up as he goes along. And while many Pinnochios aim to become real, this version is happy to embrace the world just as he is. Guillermo del Toro’s willingness to take so many risks led to the creation of one of the greatest animated adaptations ever.
#5: “Shrek” (2001)
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At first glance, this fairy-tale retelling follows the formula to a tee: storm the castle, slay the dragon, get the girl. Except, that’s only half the story. Perhaps the biggest revision is that Shrek himself is no Prince Charming - like, at all. So, instead of following the trend, this brilliant deconstruction reinvents the formula without ever fully abandoning it. It’s a tour de force of creativity and wit, all pulled together by an endlessly quotable script and some career-defining voicework. Much like ogres and onions, there’s a lot of layers to “Shrek.” Like, for example, some instantly iconic musical numbers – though, “Shrek 2” definitely takes the cake on that one.
#4: “Your Name” (2016)
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In this body swap film, a small town girl starts randomly switching bodies with a boy from the city. Their struggles to maintain each other’s lives lead to plenty of laugh out loud scenes. However, just when audiences think this story is just a strange slice-of-life comedy, a huge comet is dropped in the middle of the plot that completely changes the tone and genre. The huge risk is just one of the reasons “Your Name” became one of Japan’s highest grossing films of all time. The movie also features incredible animation, a sweeping romance, and a heart-pounding climax that will leave you breathless until the very last second. “Your Name” unquestionably needs to be called out as a spectacular animated feature.
#3: “Toy Story 3” (2010)
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Pixar ruled the late 2000s with the delicious “Ratatouille”, the awe-inspiring “Wall-E”, and the emotional “Up”. (*xrefs) These certified classics led up to the studio’s 21st century magnum opus: “Toy Story 3”. During this sequel, Woody and his fellow toys must figure out where they belong when their old friend Andy gets ready to leave for college. The movie dazzles us with great visuals as we explore this deep question. Additionally, it strikes a perfect balance between silly humor and grounded drama. But most importantly, the story says it's okay to take a new path that may lead you away from loved ones. Pixar’s masterpiece reminds us that no matter what happens, we never have to let go of the memories of our dearest friends.
#2:“ Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” (2018)
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Miles Morales knows better than anyone that with great power comes great responsibility. So, both he and the movie overall took some major leaps of faith. And, by doing so, they found the man inside of “Spider-Man.” Sure, the action’s top-notch and the animation is legit stunning, but it’s really Miles’ personal growth that saves the day. He’s no Peter Parker, and he’s no Gwen Stacy, but that’s more than okay. The multiversal shenanigans prove that Miles can still become the hero he never thought he could be. His final confrontation with Kingpin works specifically because it culminates the journey of a kid who just so happened to get spider powers. That story is arguably the film’s greatest strength. Before we highlight our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.
“Kung Fu Panda” (2008)
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“Fantastic Mr. Fox” (2009)
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“Coco” (2017)
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“Anomalisa” (2015)
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“Big Hero 6” (2014)
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#1: “Spirited Away” (2001)
There’s simply nothing that matches the riveting combination of wonder and fear conveyed in Hayao Miyazaki’s anime spectacle. The way it brilliantly takes advantage of the visual medium turns it into less of a film, and more of a work of art. After all, the gorgeous visuals often look like a moving, talking canvas brought to life. That flawless aesthetic helps the fluid story communicate the coming-of-age experience in a way nothing else ever has. It’s by and large Miyazaki’s magnum opus, if not the pinnacle of the entire industry to date. “Spirited Away” is more than a great movie. It’s a pure masterpiece, plain and simple.
