In here we show you top 10 animated movies of all time {According To IMDB}. These timeless animation classics represent the pinnacle of a continuously evolving art form. In honor of the release of Disney/Pixar’s Soul (now available for streaming on Disney+), we present to you a definitive ranking of the greatest animated feature films of all time. From Walt Disney’s hand-drawn masterpieces to the groundbreaking creations from Pixar, Laika, and Illumination, animated films captivate us by offering boundless storytelling possibilities. In curating this list, we consider factors such as the films’ overall quality, cultural impact, longevity, and re-watch value.
In ascending order, here are the 10 best animated movies of all time, ranked according to IMDB.
Table of Contents
- 10. It’s Such A Beautiful Day (2012) – 8.3
- 09. Toy Story 3 (2010) – 8.3
- 08. Princess Mononoke (1997) – 8.4
- 07. WALL-E (2008) – 8.4
- 06. Coco (2017) – 8.4
- 05. Your Name (2016) – 8.4
- 04. Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse (2018) – 8.4
- 03. Grave Of The Fireflies (1988) – 8.5
- 02. The Lion King (1994) – 8.5
- 01. Spirited Away (2001) – 8.6
- Conclusion
10. It’s Such A Beautiful Day (2012) – 8.3
“It’s Such a Beautiful Day” is an animated film that was released in 2012 and directed by Don Hertzfeldt. The movie is a unique and experimental work that showcases Hertzfeldt’s talents as a writer, animator, and filmmaker. It serves as his first feature-length film and combines three previously released short films into one cohesive and captivating narrative.
The film is divided into three chapters, each of which was originally released as a standalone short film. The first part, “Everything Will Be OK,” was released in 2006 and garnered significant acclaim, including the Grand Prize at the Sundance Film Festival. The second short, “I Am So Proud of You,” followed in 2008, continuing the story established in the first chapter. Finally, the titular third film, “It’s Such a Beautiful Day,” was released in 2011, concluding the narrative arc.
The seamless editing of these three chapters results in a feature film that explores profound themes and emotions. The story revolves around Bill, a stick-figure character with a distinctive, minimalist animation style. The film delves into Bill’s life, thoughts, and experiences, taking the audience on a journey through his existential musings, memories, and struggles with mental health.
Hertzfeldt’s animation style is both simplistic and visually striking, using hand-drawn techniques to bring the characters and their emotions to life. The film blends dark humor, introspection, and surreal imagery to create a thought-provoking and poignant exploration of the human condition.
Upon its release, the feature film version of “It’s Such a Beautiful Day” received widespread critical acclaim. Many film critics praised its unique approach to storytelling, emotional depth, and philosophical themes. The Los Angeles Film Critics Association named it runner-up for Best Animated Film of the year, and it earned a place on numerous “Best of” lists from various film publications.
“It’s Such a Beautiful Day” has continued to resonate with audiences long after its initial release. It has been recognized as one of the best animated films of the 21st century and is often regarded as a timeless classic in the genre. Its introspective exploration of life, mortality, and the human experience has cemented its place as a significant and influential work of animated cinema.
Overall, “It’s Such a Beautiful Day” is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant animated film that pushes the boundaries of storytelling. Through its unique animation style and philosophical themes, it captivates viewers and leaves a lasting impression. The film stands as a testament to Don Hertzfeldt’s talent and creativity, solidifying his position as a visionary filmmaker in the world of animation.
09. Toy Story 3 (2010) – 8.3
“Toy Story 3” is a beloved animated film released in 2010, produced by Pixar Animation Studios and distributed by Walt Disney Pictures. It serves as the third installment in the iconic Toy Story franchise, following the success of “Toy Story” in 1995 and “Toy Story 2” in 1999. Directed by Lee Unkrich, the film features a talented ensemble voice cast and delivers an emotional and heartwarming story.
The plot revolves around Andy Davis, the owner of the beloved toys Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and their friends. Andy, now 17 years old, is preparing to leave for college, leading to a bittersweet realization that his toys will be left behind. Through a series of misadventures, Woody, Buzz, and the other toys find themselves mistakenly donated to a daycare center by Andy’s mother. They must navigate the challenges of the daycare and ultimately make a choice about their loyalty and their future.
The film features the return of the original voice cast, including Tom Hanks as Woody, Tim Allen as Buzz Lightyear, and Joan Cusack as Jessie, among others. Additionally, new characters are introduced, voiced by notable actors such as Ned Beatty, Michael Keaton, Whoopi Goldberg, and Timothy Dalton. The talented voice performances bring the characters to life and add depth to the emotional journey of the toys.
“Toy Story 3” received critical acclaim and garnered numerous accolades. It became the second Pixar film to receive an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture, following “Up.” The film also received nominations for Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Sound Editing, and Best Original Song, ultimately winning the awards for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song. The film’s success at the box office was remarkable, becoming the first animated film to surpass $1 billion in worldwide revenue. It held the title of the highest-grossing film of 2010 and the highest-grossing animated film of all time at the time of its release. Additionally, it stood as Pixar’s highest-grossing film and one of the most expensive films ever made.
“Toy Story 3” resonated with audiences of all ages due to its compelling storytelling, memorable characters, and emotional depth. The film explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the inevitability of change. It beautifully captures the nostalgia and attachment people have to their childhood toys while also delivering a poignant message about letting go and embracing new phases in life.
The success of “Toy Story 3” led to the release of a fourth installment, “Toy Story 4,” in 2019, which continued the adventures of Woody, Buzz, and their friends. However, the impact and legacy of “Toy Story 3” remain significant, as it concluded the original trilogy with a powerful and heartfelt conclusion, reminding audiences of the enduring power of friendship and the magic of childhood imagination.
08. Princess Mononoke (1997) – 8.4
“Princess Mononoke” is a highly acclaimed animated film from 1997, written and directed by the renowned Japanese filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki. Produced by Studio Ghibli, the movie captivated audiences with its breathtaking animation and compelling story. Set in the late Muromachi period of Japan, the film weaves together historical elements with fantasy and explores the delicate balance between nature and human civilization.
The story follows Ashitaka, a young prince from the Emishi tribe, who becomes embroiled in a conflict between the gods of a mystical forest and the humans who seek to exploit its resources. As Ashitaka tries to find a way to bring harmony to both sides, he encounters Princess Mononoke, a human girl raised by wolves and fiercely protective of the forest. The film delves into complex themes such as environmentalism, the destructive nature of humanity, and the consequences of greed.
“Princess Mononoke” features a talented voice cast, including Yōji Matsuda as Ashitaka, Yuriko Ishida as San (Princess Mononoke), and Yūko Tanaka as Lady Eboshi. The film showcases Hayao Miyazaki’s masterful storytelling and attention to detail, creating a visually stunning world filled with vibrant characters and breathtaking landscapes. The animation is meticulously crafted, displaying the meticulous artistry and skill for which Studio Ghibli is renowned.
Upon its release, “Princess Mononoke” was a tremendous success in Japan. It became the highest-grossing film of 1997 in the country and held the record for the highest-grossing domestic film until Miyazaki’s “Spirited Away” surpassed it in 2001. The film resonated with audiences around the world, garnering critical acclaim and expanding Studio Ghibli’s popularity and influence outside of Japan.
In North America, “Princess Mononoke” was distributed by Miramax, with an English-language adaptation featuring a script by acclaimed writer Neil Gaiman. Although the film had a modest box office performance, it achieved significant success on DVD and video, finding a devoted following and further elevating the reputation of Studio Ghibli in Western markets.
“Princess Mononoke” stands as a testament to Hayao Miyazaki’s artistry and storytelling prowess. Its exploration of environmental themes, morally complex characters, and stunning animation have solidified its status as a masterpiece of animated cinema. The film continues to be celebrated for its timeless message and remains a beloved classic, enchanting audiences with its beauty and thought-provoking narrative.
07. WALL-E (2008) – 8.4
“WALL-E” is a highly acclaimed animated film released in 2008, produced by Pixar Animation Studios and distributed by Walt Disney Pictures. Directed by Andrew Stanton, the movie takes place in a distant future, set in the year 2805. It tells the story of a small, sentient robot named WALL-E, who is left alone on Earth to clean up the massive amounts of garbage left behind by humans.
As the last remaining robot on Earth, WALL-E develops a personality and emotions over time. His monotonous existence takes an exciting turn when he encounters EVE (Extraterrestrial Vegetation Evaluator), a sleek robot sent to Earth to search for signs of life. WALL-E falls in love with EVE and embarks on a space adventure with her, encountering challenges and discovering the true fate of humanity.
The film features a minimal amount of dialogue and relies heavily on visual storytelling and expressive animation to convey emotions and drive the narrative forward. Ben Burtt, Elissa Knight, and Jeff Garlin lend their voices to the main characters, with notable appearances by John Ratzenberger, Kathy Najimy, Sigourney Weaver, and Fred Willard.
“WALL-E” received widespread critical acclaim for its animation, compelling story, memorable characters, and impactful themes. The film explores issues such as consumerism, environmental degradation, and the consequences of human negligence. It resonated with audiences of all ages, captivating viewers with its heartfelt romance, humor, and thought-provoking social commentary.
At the box office, “WALL-E” performed well, grossing over $521 million worldwide against a budget of $180 million. It received numerous accolades, including the Golden Globe Award for Best Animated Feature Film and the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. It also garnered praise from critics, with many considering it one of the best films of 2008 and one of the finest animated films ever made.
“WALL-E” has endured as a beloved film, cherished for its creativity, imaginative world-building, and its ability to deliver a powerful message in an accessible and entertaining way. It has been recognized as a cinematic masterpiece, often appearing on lists of the greatest films of the 21st century and continuing to inspire future generations of filmmakers and animation enthusiasts.
06. Coco (2017) – 8.4
“Coco” is a captivating animated film that was released in 2017, produced by Pixar Animation Studios and distributed by Walt Disney Pictures. Directed by Lee Unkrich, with co-direction by Adrian Molina, the movie tells the heartwarming story of a 12-year-old boy named Miguel.
The film takes inspiration from the Mexican holiday known as the Day of the Dead (Día de Muertos). Miguel finds himself accidentally transported to the Land of the Dead, where he embarks on an extraordinary journey to seek the help of his deceased great-great-grandfather, a legendary musician. Miguel’s goal is to find a way back to the land of the living and to reconcile his family’s ban on music.
“Coco” features a talented voice cast, including Anthony Gonzalez as Miguel, Gael García Bernal, Benjamin Bratt, Alanna Ubach, Renée Victor, Ana Ofelia Murguía, and Edward James Olmos. The film beautifully depicts Mexican culture, showcasing vibrant visuals, rich traditions, and heartfelt storytelling. It explores themes of family, memory, and the power of pursuing one’s passion and dreams.
With meticulous animation and attention to detail, “Coco” brings the Land of the Dead to life, immersing audiences in a visually stunning and emotionally resonant world. The film’s music, composed by Michael Giacchino, further enhances the storytelling, with memorable songs such as “Remember Me” leaving a lasting impact.
Upon its release, “Coco” received widespread acclaim for its animation, voice acting, music, visuals, and its respectful portrayal of Mexican culture. Audiences and critics praised the film for its emotional depth, relatable characters, and its celebration of family and heritage. It achieved both critical and commercial success, grossing over $807 million worldwide and becoming one of the highest-grossing animated films at the time of its release.
“Coco” earned numerous accolades, including two Academy Awards for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song (“Remember Me”). It also received recognition at the BAFTA Awards, Golden Globe Awards, Critic’s Choice Movie Awards, and Annie Awards, among others.
The film’s heartfelt storytelling, universal themes, and vibrant representation of Mexican culture have made “Coco” a beloved animated film that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. It stands as a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of embracing and cherishing our heritage and family bonds.
05. Your Name (2016) – 8.4
“Your Name” is a mesmerizing animated film from 2016, produced by CoMix Wave Films and distributed by Toho. Written and directed by Makoto Shinkai, the film blends elements of romance, fantasy, and coming-of-age storytelling.
The story revolves around two high school students, Taki and Mitsuha, who inexplicably find themselves swapping bodies. Taki resides in Tokyo, while Mitsuha lives in a rural town in the Japanese countryside. As they navigate their daily lives in each other’s bodies, they form a connection and develop a deep bond. However, their newfound connection becomes even more complex when they discover that they are separated by time as well.
“Your Name” showcases stunning animation, with beautifully detailed landscapes and fluid character movements. The film captures the essence of both urban and rural Japan, juxtaposing the fast-paced city life of Tokyo with the tranquility and natural beauty of the countryside. The animation direction by Masashi Ando and character design by Masayoshi Tanaka bring the characters to life and capture their emotions with nuance.
The film features the voices of Ryunosuke Kamiki as Taki and Mone Kamishiraishi as Mitsuha, with a memorable soundtrack composed by Radwimps. The music enhances the emotional depth of the film and complements the breathtaking visuals.
Upon its release, “Your Name” received widespread acclaim from audiences and critics alike. It was praised for its beautiful animation, compelling story, and emotional resonance. The film became a commercial success, grossing over ¥41.44 billion (US$380.15 million) worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing anime films of all time.
“Your Name” garnered several awards, including Best Animated Feature at the Los Angeles Film Critics Association Awards, Sitges Film Festival, and Mainichi Film Awards. It was also nominated for Best Animation of the Year at the Japan Academy Prize.
The impact of “Your Name” extended beyond Japan, captivating audiences worldwide and solidifying Makoto Shinkai as a visionary filmmaker. Its universal themes of connection, love, and the longing to understand one another resonated with viewers, transcending cultural boundaries.
The film’s success has also led to a live-action American remake currently in development by Paramount Pictures, showcasing the enduring appeal of the story and its potential to captivate audiences in different mediums.
“Your Name” stands as a testament to the power of animation as a medium for storytelling, evoking deep emotions and leaving a lasting impression on viewers. Its exploration of love, fate, and the importance of human connection has solidified its place as a modern animated masterpiece.
04. Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse (2018) – 8.4
“Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” is a groundbreaking animated superhero film that was released in 2018. Produced by Columbia Pictures and Sony Pictures Animation in association with Marvel Entertainment, the movie marks the first animated feature in the Spider-Man franchise. Directed by Bob Persichetti, Peter Ramsey, and Rodney Rothman, the film showcases the story of Miles Morales, a young teenager who becomes the new Spider-Man and joins forces with other versions of the hero from different dimensions to save their universes from the villainous Kingpin.
The film boasts an impressive voice cast, with Shameik Moore lending his voice to the character of Miles Morales. Other notable voices include Jake Johnson, Hailee Steinfeld, Mahershala Ali, Brian Tyree Henry, Lily Tomlin, Luna Lauren Velez, John Mulaney, Kimiko Glenn, Nicolas Cage, and Liev Schreiber. The film’s screenplay was written by Phil Lord and Rodney Rothman, and it is inspired by the work of Miles Morales’ co-creator, Sari Pichelli.
“Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” introduces audiences to a unique visual style that combines computer animation with traditional hand-drawn comic book techniques. The film captures the spirit and energy of the comic book medium, immersing viewers in a vibrant and dynamic world. With a dedicated crew of up to 140 animators, the film pushed the boundaries of animation and visual storytelling.
Upon its release, “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” received critical acclaim for its animation, compelling characters, engaging story, voice acting, and humor. The film’s innovative style and its focus on the diverse range of Spider-Man characters from various dimensions resonated with both comic book enthusiasts and general audiences.
The film was a commercial success, grossing over $375 million worldwide against a budget of $90 million. It won numerous awards, including Best Animated Feature at the 91st Academy Awards, making it the first non-Disney/Pixar film to win the category since 2011’s “Rango.” It also garnered recognition at the Golden Globe Awards, British Academy Film Awards, and Annie Awards.
The success of “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” led to the announcement of two sequels, “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (Part One)” and “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (Part Two),” set to be released in 2022 and 2023, respectively. Additionally, a spin-off film is currently in development, further expanding the Spider-Verse universe.
Overall, “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” is hailed as a groundbreaking animated film that reimagines the superhero genre. It celebrates the legacy of Spider-Man while introducing fresh and diverse characters to captivate audiences. With its unique animation style, engaging story, and memorable characters, the film has left an indelible mark on both the superhero genre and the world of animation.
03. Grave Of The Fireflies (1988) – 8.5
“Grave of the Fireflies” is a powerful and poignant animated film released in 1988. Directed by Isao Takahata and produced by Studio Ghibli, the movie is based on the semi-autobiographical short story of the same name by Akiyuki Nosaka. It presents a heartbreaking narrative set in the city of Kobe, Japan, during the final months of World War II.
The film follows the story of two siblings, Seita and Setsuko, who are orphaned after their mother’s death during an air raid. With their father serving in the Japanese Navy, the young children must fend for themselves in a war-torn country. The film explores their desperate struggle for survival, their resilience, and the enduring bond between brother and sister.
“Grave of the Fireflies” captures the devastating impact of war on civilians, depicting the harsh realities faced by Seita and Setsuko. The film delves into themes of loss, grief, innocence, and the human spirit’s ability to persevere in the face of unimaginable circumstances. Its powerful storytelling elicits profound emotions and invites reflection on the devastating effects of war on the lives of innocent people.
The animation in “Grave of the Fireflies” is beautifully crafted, capturing both the harshness of war and the tender moments between the siblings. The film’s artistry and attention to detail highlight the emotional weight of the story, immersing the audience in the characters’ experiences.
Upon its release, “Grave of the Fireflies” received critical acclaim and has since been regarded as one of the greatest war films ever made. It is often cited as a major work of Japanese animation and a testament to the power of the medium to convey complex and emotional narratives. The film’s heartbreaking depiction of the human cost of war resonated with audiences around the world, evoking empathy and compassion.
“Grave of the Fireflies” stands as a reminder of the lasting impact of war and the importance of compassion, empathy, and understanding. Its portrayal of the indomitable spirit of children in the face of tragedy has left an enduring mark on the world of cinema. The film continues to be celebrated for its artistic achievements and its ability to shed light on the devastating consequences of conflict on innocent lives.
02. The Lion King (1994) – 8.5
“The Lion King” is an iconic animated musical drama film that was released in 1994. Produced by Walt Disney Feature Animation and distributed by Walt Disney Pictures, it is the 32nd Disney animated feature film and a notable entry in the Disney Renaissance era. The film was directed by Roger Allers and Rob Minkoff, and produced by Don Hahn, with a screenplay by Irene Mecchi, Jonathan Roberts, and Linda Woolverton.
Set in a kingdom of lions in Africa, “The Lion King” draws inspiration from various sources, including biblical stories like Joseph and Moses, as well as William Shakespeare’s “Hamlet.” The story revolves around Simba, a young lion who is destined to succeed his father, Mufasa, as the King of the Pride Lands. However, Simba’s wicked uncle, Scar, plots to seize the throne and orchestrates Mufasa’s demise. Manipulated by Scar into believing he is responsible for his father’s death, Simba flees into exile. During his journey, he encounters the carefree duo Timon and Pumbaa, who teach him about a worry-free life. But as he grows older, Simba receives valuable guidance from his childhood friend Nala and the wise Rafiki, leading him to confront his past and reclaim his rightful place as king.
“The Lion King” features a star-studded voice cast, including Matthew Broderick as the adult Simba, James Earl Jones as Mufasa, Jeremy Irons as Scar, Jonathan Taylor Thomas and later Matthew Broderick as the young Simba, Moira Kelly as Nala, and an array of talented performers bringing the animal kingdom to life.
The film stands out for its memorable musical score, composed by Hans Zimmer, and its unforgettable songs, written by Elton John and Tim Rice. Classics like “Circle of Life,” “Hakuna Matata,” and “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” became instant hits and have remained beloved by audiences for years.
Upon its release, “The Lion King” received widespread critical acclaim, earning praise for its compelling story, memorable characters, breathtaking animation, and powerful themes of family, responsibility, and finding one’s place in the world. The film became a commercial success, grossing over $763 million worldwide and becoming the highest-grossing film of 1994. It has since become one of the most successful and beloved animated films of all time.
“The Lion King” received numerous accolades, including two Academy Awards for its achievement in music and the Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy. It has inspired various derived works, such as a successful Broadway adaptation in 1997, two direct-to-video sequels, a television series, and a photorealistic remake in 2019.
“The Lion King” holds a special place in the hearts of many, enchanting audiences of all ages with its timeless story, memorable characters, and unforgettable music. It remains a beloved classic in the world of animation, continuing to captivate new generations with its universal themes and enduring legacy.
01. Spirited Away (2001) – 8.6
“Spirited Away” is a mesmerizing animated fantasy film that was released in 2001. It was written and directed by the renowned Hayao Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli. The film takes viewers on a captivating journey into the world of Kami, the spirits of Japanese Shinto folklore.
The story centers around Chihiro Ogino, a ten-year-old girl who finds herself in a mysterious and enchanting realm after moving to a new neighborhood. When her parents are transformed into pigs by the witch Yubaba, Chihiro must navigate this otherworldly realm and work in Yubaba’s bathhouse to find a way to save herself and her parents, ultimately seeking a way back to the human world.
“Spirited Away” showcases Miyazaki’s masterful storytelling and breathtaking animation. The film beautifully portrays the themes of self-discovery, courage, and the importance of human connection. The imaginative and intricate world-building immerses viewers in a rich tapestry of magical creatures, stunning landscapes, and compelling characters.
The film received critical acclaim and has garnered numerous accolades. It won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, marking the first hand-drawn and non-English-language animated film to achieve this honor. It also received the prestigious Golden Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival.
“Spirited Away” holds a special place in the hearts of audiences around the world. Its universal themes, striking visuals, and heartfelt storytelling resonate with viewers of all ages. The film’s success is a testament to Miyazaki’s artistry and his ability to create imaginative and emotionally resonant narratives.
In addition to its critical acclaim, “Spirited Away” has become a beloved classic and is often regarded as one of the greatest animated films of all time. Its impact extends beyond the animation genre, captivating audiences with its universal themes and captivating storytelling.
Whether it’s the enchanting world, the endearing characters, or the profound messages it conveys, “Spirited Away” continues to captivate and inspire audiences, cementing its status as a timeless masterpiece in the realm of animation and storytelling.
Conclusion
In conclusion, animated movies have the incredible ability to captivate audiences of all ages with their captivating stories, stunning visuals, and profound messages. From heartwarming tales to epic adventures, animated films transport us to imaginative worlds, allowing us to experience emotions and connect with characters in ways that are both entertaining and meaningful.
Throughout the years, animated movies have pushed the boundaries of creativity and storytelling. They have become a powerful medium for exploring complex themes, addressing social issues, and touching the hearts of viewers worldwide. Whether through traditional hand-drawn animation or cutting-edge computer-generated imagery, these films showcase the immense talent and dedication of the artists, animators, writers, and directors who bring them to life.
Movies like “It’s Such a Beautiful Day,” “Toy Story 3,” “Princess Mononoke,” “WALL-E,” “Your Name,” “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse,” “Grave of the Fireflies,” “The Lion King,” and “Spirited Away” have left an indelible mark on the world of animation and popular culture. These films have received critical acclaim, garnered numerous awards, and continue to be cherished by audiences worldwide.
Animated movies are not limited by age or language; they have the power to transcend boundaries and resonate with people from all walks of life. They evoke laughter, tears, and a range of emotions, creating lasting memories and sparking important conversations.
As we continue to embrace and appreciate the artistry of animated films, let us celebrate the diverse stories they tell, the imaginative worlds they create, and the impact they have on our lives. Whether they transport us to distant galaxies, magical kingdoms, or familiar settings, animated movies provide us with a source of joy, inspiration, and reflection.
In a world where imagination knows no bounds, animated movies remind us of the limitless possibilities of storytelling and the enduring magic of cinema. They will continue to shape the landscape of entertainment, inspire future generations of filmmakers, and bring us together through the shared experience of storytelling.