The best animated movies are those which leave the audience with a sense of nostalgia and have a happy ending. What was once used as a visual diversion for children has evolved into a genre that is as creatively splendid and engaging as any live-action film and even better.
In recent years there have been significant advancements in the technological aspects of the animation world; advances in vector art, puppets, motion capture, and tweening have helped produce higher-quality movies. The world of animation has something in store for everyone out there.
Here is a list of the best animated movies of the 21st century:
1 – The Incredibles (2004)
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The Incredibles (2004) is a classic animated movie that has won the hearts of many viewers. The film tells the story of a family of superheroes who, after years of living as regular citizens, are forced to use their skills to save the world from a dangerous villain. The dynamic between each character is entertaining and captivating, as the audience gets to see how each family member contributes to the mission in their own unique way.
With stunning visuals and an unforgettable storyline, The Incredibles has become a beloved movie for kids and adults alike. It is a must-see for anyone looking for a fun and thrilling adventure.
2 – Ratatouille (2007)
In the world of animated films, Ratatouille is a true masterpiece. Released in 2007, this movie is full of heartwarming moments, stunning visuals, and memorable characters. The story follows a rat named Remy who dreams of becoming a chef in a world where rodents are shunned from the world of humans. With the help of a bumbling young chef named Linguini, Remy embarks on a culinary journey that will have you on the edge of your seat.
With vibrant colors, catchy tunes, and a heartwarming message about following your passions, Ratatouille is a must-see for audiences of all ages.
3 – Lion King (2019)
The beloved classic, Lion King, is back and roaring on the big screen in 2019. The film, directed by Jon Favreau, brings the iconic story of Simba and his journey to become King of the Pride Lands to a new generation of fans. From the breathtaking visuals to the nostalgic soundtrack, this film is a visual feast for the senses that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
With a star-studded cast featuring Donald Glover, Beyoncé, and James Earl Jones, Lion King (2019) is a must-see for anyone who has ever been touched by this timeless tale of courage, loss, and love. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the story, this movie will take you on a epic adventure through the African savanna and leave you feeling inspired.
4 – Finding Nemo (2003)
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With its vibrant oceanic scenes and endearing characters, Pixar’s Finding Nemo (2003) has long been a beloved family favorite. The story follows the journey of an overprotective clownfish named Marlin and his forgetful sidekick Dory as they swim through the Great Barrier Reef to find Marlin’s missing son, Nemo. Along the way, they face dangerous obstacles, make new friends, and learn the power of perseverance and bravery.
From the lovable surfer-dude turtle, Crush, to the menacing anglerfish, Finding Nemo’s diverse cast of creatures is both entertaining and engaging. With stunning animation and heartwarming themes of family and friendship, it’s no wonder that Finding Nemo is still captivating audiences nearly two decades after its initial release.
5 – The Lego Movie (2014)
In 2014, the Lego Company took the world by storm with their first full-length feature film, The Lego Movie. With its dynamic animation, clever writing, and all-star voice cast, this movie immediately became a fan favorite. The film follows the story of Emmet, an ordinary Lego figure, who inadvertently becomes the key to saving the Lego universe from a wicked tyrant.
Along the way, he teams up with a group of fellow Lego characters and embarks on an epic adventure that’s sure to keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. Whether you’re a fan of the Lego universe or just looking for a fun family flick, The Lego Movie is an absolute must-see.
6 – Kung Fu Panda (2008)
In 2008, Kung Fu Panda roared onto the big screen, charming audiences of all ages with its lovable protagonist, Po. The unlikely hero, a noodle-making panda, dreams of one day becoming a kung fu master, but feels discouraged by his round shape and lack of combat experience. That is, until fate intervenes and he is chosen to train under the legendary Furious Five and their strict leader, Shifu. With the help of his comrades and his own perseverance, Po begins to unlock his inner warrior and the true power of kung fu.
This comedic and action-packed adventure never fails to bring a smile to audiences, proving that even the most unlikely heroes can achieve greatness.
7 – Spirited Away (2001)
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Spirited Away, directed by the talented Hayao Miyazaki, brings to life an enchanting world of magic, wonder, and mystery. This captivating animated film tells the story of Chihiro, a young girl who unknowingly stumbles upon a seemingly deserted amusement park with her parents. However, things quickly take a turn for the worse when her parents are transformed into pigs, leaving Chihiro completely alone in a strange and unfamiliar realm.
Each moment of Spirited Away is a breathtaking adventure full of fascinating characters, gorgeous animation, and an unforgettable soundtrack. The film expertly captures the imagination of both children and adults alike, leaving them spellbound by the vibrant and fantastical world Miyazaki has created.
8 – Shrek (2001)
Shrek (2001) is a classic animated movie that has captured the hearts of people of all ages. The film follows the journey of an unlikely hero, an ogre named Shrek, as he sets out to save his swamp from a group of fairy tale creatures. Along the way, he meets and befriends a talkative donkey, takes on the evil Lord Farquaad, and falls in love with a princess. What makes Shrek truly special is its ability to blend humor, heart, and a strong message about the importance of being true to oneself.
This movie has become a cultural phenomenon, spawning sequels, merchandise and even an amusement park attraction. Shrek has earned its place as a beloved classic of the animation world.
9 – Ice Age (2002)
In the animated adventure-comedy, Ice Age (2002), audiences are transported back to prehistoric times where a group of unlikely animal friends come together to save a human baby. This glacially thrilling tale features memorable characters including the mammoth, Manny, the sloth, Sid, and the saber-toothed tiger, Diego, who team up on a perilous journey across icy terrains to reunite the infant with his tribe. Along the way, the trio faces a series of challenges and obstacles, including treacherous glaciers and hungry predators.
With its heartwarming story of friendship and bravery, along with its stunning visuals and slapstick humor, Ice Age is a family-friendly classic that has delighted audiences for nearly two decades.
10 – Wall-E (2008)
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Wall-E is an animated science-fiction film that captivated audiences when it hit the screens in 2008. It tells the story of a lonely trash compactor robot that is left behind on Earth to clean up the mess of humanity, after they were forced to abandon the planet due to the overpowered waste crisis. Despite being a movie that is primarily aimed at children, Wall-E has plenty of thought-provoking commentary on consumerism and the environment, making it enjoyable for adults as well.
Arguably, the most impressive part of this beloved Pixar film are the expressive non-verbal moments shared between Wall-E and his companion, EVE. The heartwarming bond between the two robots is a testament to the power of love and determination, even in the most desolate of circumstances.
11 – Big Hero 6 (2014)
Big Hero 6 is an animated film that delivers in more ways than one. The story follows a young prodigy named Hiro Hamada and his robot creation Baymax as they navigate the bustling metropolis of San Fransokyo. The character development is masterfully done, with each member of the Big Hero 6 team bringing their own unique set of traits and quirks to the table. The visuals are breathtaking, with the cityscapes and action sequences leaving a lasting impression on viewers.
But what truly sets this film apart is its emotional core. The themes of loss, friendship, and perseverance resonate deeply and leave a lasting impact beyond the final credits. Big Hero 6 is a true gem that deserves a place in any animation lover’s collection.
12 – Up (2009)
Up (2009) is a heartwarming and unforgettable animated movie that resonates with audiences of all ages. The film follows the adventures of Carl, an old man who sets out on a journey to fulfill a lifelong dream of exploring the world. With his trusted companion, a young boy named Russell, they embark on an incredible adventure that takes them to exotic places and introduces them to a cast of lovable characters. Throughout their journey, the unlikely pair learn important life lessons about friendship, love, and the importance of cherishing every moment.
With stunning graphics, an emotional storyline, and a brilliant soundtrack, Up (2009) is a must-watch movie that will leave viewers smiling long after the credits roll.
13 – Inside Out (2015)
Inside Out is a true cinematic masterpiece that takes viewers on a journey inside the mind of a young girl named Riley. The film brilliantly personifies Riley’s emotions as five distinct characters, each with their own unique personalities and quirks. From Joy’s boundless energy to Sadness’ infectious melancholy, each emotion is a joy to watch in action. But beyond the humor and heartwarming moments, Inside Out offers a poignant message about the importance of embracing all aspects of one’s emotional experience.
It’s a film that will make you laugh, cry, and maybe even gain a newfound appreciation for the complexity of the human psyche.
14 – How to Train Your Dragon (2010)
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Released in 2010, How to Train Your Dragon is an epic animated adventure that follows the story of a young Viking named Hiccup. Though he comes from a long line of dragon hunters, Hiccup has never quite fit in with the rest of his tribe. When he finally captures his first dragon, a night fury named Toothless, Hiccup realizes that these creatures may not be the fierce beasts his people have always believed them to be.
With the help of Toothless, Hiccup sets out to change the minds of his fellow Vikings and forge a new bond between humans and dragons. This heartwarming tale is a must-watch for anyone who loves a good underdog story or just can’t get enough of these fascinating fire-breathing beasts.
15 – Coco (2017)
Coco (2017) is a heartwarming story about family, love, and the power of music. The film follows Miguel, a young boy who dreams of becoming a musician despite his family’s disapproval. When he finds himself accidentally transported to the Land of the Dead, he meets his ancestors and discovers the true meaning of family. With colorful animation and catchy songs, Coco paints a vivid picture of Mexican culture and traditions.
As Miguel navigates his way through the Land of the Dead, he learns about his family’s rich history and gains a new appreciation for the importance of remembering those who came before us. Coco is a beautiful film that will make you laugh, cry, and ultimately leave you feeling uplifted.
16 – Encanto (2021)
Disney’s newest animated film, Encanto, takes us on a magical journey through the vibrant world of Colombia. The story follows the Madrigal family, who lives in a magical house full of enchanting powers. However, when their magical abilities start to fade, it’s up to Mirabel Madrigal to uncover the truth and save her family from losing their powers forever.
Not only is Encanto visually stunning with its vibrant colors and beautiful animation, but it’s also filled with heartwarming moments and a phenomenal soundtrack featuring Lin-Manuel Miranda. This movie is a must-see for anyone who loves a good family adventure with a touch of magic!
17 – Apollo 10 1⁄2: A Space Age Childhood (2022)
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The upcoming film “Apollo 10 1⁄2: A Space Age Childhood” is a nostalgic and touching representation of the wonder and excitement of the Space Age. Set in the early 1970s, the film tells the story of a young boy named Danny who becomes captivated by the Apollo 10 mission and dreams of becoming an astronaut himself. Through Danny’s eyes, we see the awe-inspiring accomplishments of NASA and the profound impact they had on a generation of young Americans.
With breathtaking visuals and a heartfelt storyline, “Apollo 10 1⁄2” promises to take audiences on a journey back in time to relive the majesty of the Space Age.
Conclusion
These movies are just some of the exemplary animated movies out there. Animated films provide us with the one-of-a-kind gift of amusing depictions of our greatest desires. With the situation of the globe as it is, we may require more crazy, wacky, and artistic animations than ever before. We hope you enjoy watching them.
