Best Animated Films for Kids – Get Ready for Family Movie Night!
Animated films have a special way of bringing families together. We’ve had parents and children all snuggled up on the couch for movie night, ready to be whisked away to magical worlds filled with talking animals, brave heroes, and unforgettable adventures. As an honorable mention, ‘The Boss Baby’ is also a fantastic choice for family movie nights.
The best animated movies for kids aren’t just for little ones – they’re guaranteed to keep parents and children of every age group engaged.
From classic Disney tales to modern Pixar masterpieces, there’s no shortage of animated gems to choose from. These films mix humor, heart, and stunning visuals to create stories that stick with us long after the credits roll.
Whether you’re looking for a good laugh or a touching message, animated movies deliver in spades.
We’ve rounded up some of our favorite animated flicks that the whole family can enjoy together.
Get ready to laugh, cry, and maybe even learn a thing or two as we dive into the wonderful world of animation!
Key Takeaways
Animated films bring families together with stories that appeal to all ages
The best animated movies mix humor, heart, and stunning visuals
Family movie nights are perfect for exploring both classic and modern animated gems
The Magic of Animation
Animation brings stories to life in ways that captivate both kids and adults. We’re constantly amazed by how a series of drawings or computer-generated images can create entire worlds and characters we fall in love with. Illumination Entertainment, known for its star-studded voice casts and engaging storylines, excels at creating animated films that appeal to both children and adults.
Bringing Stories to Life
Animation is like magic for storytelling. It lets us create anything we can imagine!
We can have talking animals, flying cars, or even bring history to life.
The best part? There are no limits to what we can do.
Animation helps us connect with characters in unique ways. We see their emotions in every expression and movement.
It’s wild how a bunch of lines and colors can make us laugh, cry, and cheer!
Computer-generated imagery (CGI) has taken animation to new heights. Now we can make super realistic 3D worlds that look almost real.
But don’t forget about good old 2D animation – it’s still going strong and looking better than ever.
From Sketches to the Big Screen
Ever wonder how those cute characters go from simple sketches to the big screen? It’s a long but exciting process!
Here’s a quick peek at how it happens:
Artists draw storyboards (like a comic book version of the movie)
Voice actors record dialogue
Animators bring characters to life through movement
Computer wizards add special effects and backgrounds
Musicians create the perfect soundtrack
Stop-motion animation is super cool too. Imagine moving tiny models bit by bit to create a whole movie. It takes forever, but the results are amazing!
We love how animation lets filmmakers push the boundaries of creativity.
Whether it’s a heartwarming Pixar film or a mind-bending indie movie, there’s always something new to discover in the world of film animation here.
All-Time Favorites
Animated films have given us some truly unforgettable stories. From timeless classics to modern hits, these movies capture our hearts and imaginations.
Classics That Never Age
Who doesn’t love the timeless classics that shaped our childhoods?
“The Lion King” roars with its epic story and unforgettable songs. We still can’t help but sing along to “Hakuna Matata”!
“Beauty and the Beast” enchants us with its tale as old as time. The dancing teacups and candlesticks never fail to make us smile.
And let’s not forget Cinderella’s magical transformation – that perfect blue sparkling dress gets us every time!
“The Little Mermaid” made waves with its underwater adventure. Ariel’s quest to be part of our world tugs at our heartstrings.
“The Nightmare Before Christmas,” a Tim Burton classic with universal appeal, captivates audiences with its unique claymation style and memorable songs, blending Halloween and Christmas themes seamlessly.
These movies prove that great stories never go out of style.
New Millennium Hits
The 2000s brought us some amazing new favorites!
“Frozen” took the world by storm with its sisterly love story and catchy tunes. We’re still belting out “Let It Go” in the shower!
The “Toy Story” series keeps getting better with each installment. Woody and Buzz’s friendship gives us all the feels. Their adventures make us laugh, cry, and everything in between.
These newer films blend stunning visuals and great animation with heartfelt stories. They tackle big themes in ways kids and adults can enjoy together. Movie night, anyone?
Adventures and Misadventures
Animated films take us on wild rides filled with excitement, laughter, and heart. From epic quests to superhero hijinks, these movies keep kids and adults alike on the edge of their seats.
Epic Journeys
Moana is a perfect example of an epic journey that we can’t get enough of.
Another great example is ‘Fantastic Mr. Fox,’ which appeals to adult audiences with its artistic merits and Wes Anderson’s unique visual style.
This brave teen sets sail across the ocean to save her people, facing monsters and self-doubt along the way. We love how she grows and learns to trust herself.
Another fantastic adventure is “Zootopia,” where a rookie bunny cop teams up with a sly fox to crack a big case.
It’s not just about solving crimes – it’s about overcoming prejudices and finding friendship in unexpected places.
“The Mitchells vs. the Machines” is a hilarious road trip gone wrong.
This family faces a robot apocalypse while trying to drop their daughter off at college. It’s packed with laughs and touching moments that’ll make us all want to hug our weird families tight.
Lego Movie Shenanigans
The Incredibles brings superhero fun to a whole new level.
This super-family juggles saving the world with everyday parenting struggles. We can’t help but giggle at Dash’s antics or cheer for Elastigirl’s awesome stretchy powers.
“Big Hero 6” mixes superheroes with science in the coolest way.
Watching Hiro and his inflatable robot buddy Baymax team up to fight evil is both exciting and heartwarming. It shows us that true strength comes from friendship and using our brains.
We also adore “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” for its fresh take on Spidey.
Miles Morales learns that anyone can wear the mask, and we’re here for it! The stunning animation and diverse characters make this a must-see for superhero fans of all ages.
Laughter for All Ages
Animated films bring joy to viewers of all ages. They make us laugh, smile, and feel good inside. Let’s look at some funny favorites that the whole family can enjoy together.
Comedic Gems
We love movies that make us laugh out loud! Shrek is a hilarious classic that pokes fun at fairy tales. The grumpy ogre and his silly donkey friend crack us up every time.
Finding Nemo swims with humor too. Dory’s forgetfulness and the tank gang’s antics keep us giggling. And who can forget the seagulls? Their “Mine! Mine!” still makes us chuckle.
Despicable Me brings the laughs with its goofy minions. Their banana obsession and silly language tickle our funny bones. Gru’s transformation from villain to dad is both sweet and amusing.
Witty and Wonderful
Some animated films mix clever humor with heartwarming moments. We adore how they make us think and feel at the same time.
Inside Out takes us on an emotional rollercoaster filled with witty jokes. Joy and Sadness’s journey through the mind is both funny and touching.
The Incredibles blends superhero action with family comedy. Mr. Incredible’s midlife crisis and Edna Mode’s sass keep us entertained.
Up’s opening montage tugs at our hearts, but two brothers, talking dogs and a grumpy old man’s adventures soon have us in stitches. These movies prove laughter and love go hand in hand.
Unforgettable Characters and Tales
Animated films are full of amazing characters and stories that stick with us forever. We’ve fallen in love with so many lovable heroes and unforgettable villains over the years!
Heroes, Villains, and Everyone In Between
Animated movies give us some of the best characters ever! We’re talking about memorable characters that feel like our friends. One such character is a young witch in a charming film narrative centered around a young girl’s adventures and challenges as she navigates her identity and powers.
Remember Dory from Finding Nemo? She’s the sweetest, funniest fish ever! And who could forget grumpy Carl from Up? His journey with Russell melts our hearts every time.
But it’s not just the good guys we love. Villains can be super fun too! The Nightmare Before Christmas gave us Jack Skellington – is the ailing father of he good? Bad? We’re still not sure, but we adore him no matter what!
And don’t even get us started on the sidekicks. Olaf from Frozen makes us laugh so hard we cry!
Stories That Stick With You
The best animated films tell stories that stay with us long after the credits roll.
Inside Out took us on an emotional rollercoaster (in the best way!) and taught us it’s okay to feel all our feelings.
Spirited Away is a magical adventure that we can watch over and over. It’s like a dream we never want to wake up from!
Some movies, like Kubo and the Two Strings, mix beautiful animation with deep themes.
We’re still thinking about Kubo’s quest years later.
And let’s not forget the pure joy of movies like Sing. Who doesn’t love belting out those tunes with the characters?
Family Movie Night Picks
We’ve got some amazing animated films that’ll make your next family movie night unforgettable!
These picks are perfect for bringing everyone together, from the littlest kiddos to the grown-ups.
Cozy and Comforting
Snuggle up with some cozy classics that’ll warm your hearts!
“My Neighbor Totoro” is a magical adventure that’ll transport you to a whimsical world. It’s perfect for little ones and adults alike.
For a dash of nostalgia, “Peter Pan” never gets old.
We love how it sparks imagination and takes us on a journey to Neverland. Who doesn’t want to fly with fairies and fight pirates?
Don’t forget about “Ratatouille”! This adorable tale of a cooking rat will have your tummies rumbling and your spirits soaring. Plus, it’s set in Paris – ooh la la!
Heartfelt Storytelling
Get ready for some serious feels with these touching tales!
“Coco” is a beautiful celebration of family and music that’ll have you reaching for the tissues (in a good way!).
We’re obsessed with how it brings Mexican culture to life with stunning visuals and catchy tunes.
It’s a perfect pick for movie night that’ll spark great convos with the kiddos.
Looking for more hidden gems? Try “The Secret World of Arrietty” or “Song of the Sea”.
These enchanting stories will sweep you off your feet with their gorgeous animation and heartfelt messages.
Animated Films with a Message
Animated movies can teach us so much while keeping us entertained. Let’s look at some films that really stick with you and make you think.
Life Lessons and Learning
We love how some animated films sneak in important life lessons.
Take “Encanto” for example. This colorful masterpiece shows us that everyone has value, even if we don’t have special powers. It’s all about being yourself!
“Wall-E” is another gem.
This cute robot teaches us to care for our planet. It’s a wake-up call wrapped in an adorable package.
And who could forget “Frozen”?
This movie shows us the power of sisterly love and being true to ourselves.
Inspiring and Impactful
Some animated films really tug at our heartstrings.
“The Prince of Egypt” brings an ancient story to life with stunning visuals and powerful music. It’s a tale of faith, freedom, and standing up for what’s right.
“Anastasia” is another winner.
This movie mixes history with fantasy and teaches us about family, identity, and never giving up hope.
These films do more than entertain younger viewers – they inspire us to be better.
They tackle big themes in ways kids can understand and adults can appreciate. It’s like getting a warm hug and a pep talk all at once!
Animated Films for Adults
Complex Themes and Storytelling
Animated films aren’t just for kids; they often delve into complex themes and sophisticated storytelling that resonate deeply with adults. These movies can feature intricate plotlines, mature humor, and thought-provoking messages that appeal to a more mature audience.
Take “Spirited Away” by Hayao Miyazaki, for example. This critically acclaimed animated film follows a young girl who finds herself in a magical world, working in a bathhouse for spirits. Beyond its enchanting visuals, the movie explores themes of identity, growth, and self-discovery, making it a compelling watch for adults.
Another gem is “The Lego Movie.” While it might seem like a simple children’s film on the surface, it cleverly tackles themes of conformity, individuality, and the power of imagination. Its witty humor and clever writing make it a delightful experience for adults, proving that animated films can be both entertaining and intellectually stimulating.
Tim Burton’s classics like “The Nightmare Before Christmas” and “Corpse Bride” also offer rich, darkly whimsical tales that captivate older audiences. These films, along with Pixar’s “Coco,” which beautifully explores family and cultural heritage, showcase the depth and versatility of animation as a medium. They remind us that animated films can offer profound experiences for every age group.
Other Notable Animated Films
Animated Movie Highlights
Beyond the well-known classics, there are numerous animated movies that have significantly impacted the world of animation, pushing the boundaries of storytelling, art, and technology.
One standout is “The Incredibles,” a superhero animated movie that pays homage to classic superhero films while offering a fresh, original take on the genre. With its clever writing, memorable characters, and stunning animation, it has become a beloved favorite among audiences of all ages.
“Kung Fu Panda” is another notable film, blending martial arts action with a heartwarming story and unforgettable characters. Its success led to a franchise with multiple sequels and spin-offs, each continuing to charm viewers with its great animation and engaging narrative.
“Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” revolutionized the superhero genre with its innovative animation style and fresh take on the Spider-Man story. This film’s unique visual approach and diverse characters make it a must-see for superhero movie fans.
Of course, we can’t forget “The Lion King,” a Disney classic that has become a cultural phenomenon. Its epic story, unforgettable songs, and stunning animation have left a lasting legacy in the world of animated films.
And then there’s “Toy Story,” the film that revolutionized computer animation and launched a beloved franchise. Its heartwarming story and groundbreaking animation continue to captivate audiences of every age group.
These films, along with many others, have helped establish animation as a respected and beloved medium. Whether you’re into superhero movies, martial arts adventures, or classic Disney tales, there’s an animated movie out there that will capture your heart and imagination.
Where to Stream the Joy
Finding great animated movies for kids is easy these days. We’ve got the scoop on where to catch all the best family-friendly flicks without leaving your couch.
Big Platforms for Younger Viewers
Disney+ is the heavyweight champ when it comes to animated superhero movies for all ages.
It’s packed with classics like “The Lion King” and new hits like “Encanto.” We love how it’s got something for everyone, from toddlers to teens (and let’s be real, us grown-ups too).
Netflix is another goldmine for animation lovers.
They’ve got a mix of original animated features and popular movies from other studios. “Klaus” and “The Mitchells vs. The Machines” are must-watches.
Hulu’s animation game is strong too.
They’ve got some great Dreamworks titles and anime that older kids will dig.
On-Demand Animated Delights
Amazon Prime Video is our go-to for a huge variety of animated films.
They’ve got everything from indie gems to big-budget blockbusters. Plus, you can rent or buy almost anything that’s not included with Prime.
Paramount+ is the new kid on the block, but it’s already making waves.
It’s home to tons of Nickelodeon content, so if your little ones are SpongeBob fans, this is the place to be.
For those nights when we just can’t decide, we love browsing animated movie lists to find something new. There’s always a hidden gem waiting to be discovered!
Holiday Specials and Seasonal Treats
Animated films offer some of the coziest holiday viewing experiences. We love snuggling up with our kiddos to enjoy festive favorites that capture the magic of special times of year.
Tim Burton Classic Spooky Flicks and Christmas Favorites
Who doesn’t love a good holiday movie night?
For Halloween, we’re all about “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” and “Coco.” These animated gems mix spooky fun with heartwarming messages.
When Christmas rolls around, our go-to is “The Grinch”.
Whether it’s the classic or the newer version, that green meanie always makes us laugh. And let’s not forget “The Polar Express” – talk about Christmas magic!
For a newer pick, we’re huge fans of “Klaus.”
It’s a fresh take on Santa’s origin story that’ll warm your heart faster than hot cocoa.
Celebratory Animation
Beyond the big holidays, there are tons of animated specials that celebrate all sorts of occasions.
“Ice Age: A Mammoth Christmas” is perfect for a wintry movie night, even if it’s not December 25th.
We also love Pixar’s “Bao” for Lunar New Year celebrations. It’s short, sweet, and packs an emotional punch.
For Earth Day, “WALL-E” is our top pick. It’s fun for kids and has an important message about taking care of our planet.
Don’t forget about “Coco” for Día de los Muertos. It’s a beautiful celebration of family and Mexican culture that we can’t get enough of.
Looking to the Future
Exciting times are ahead for animated films! We’re pumped about the new releases and sequels coming soon that will captivate viewers of all ages.
Upcoming Animated Excitement
Get ready to feel all the feels with “Inside Out 2”!
We can’t wait to see how Riley’s emotions evolve as a girl as she enters her teenage girl years. This sequel promises to be just as heartwarming and hilarious as the original.
Another film on our radar is the English dub of “Your Name”.
This Japanese masterpiece is finally getting the Hollywood treatment. We’re thrilled that more kids will get to experience its beautiful story of body-swapping and time travel.
For the littles, “Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie” is barking up excitement.
Our furry heroes are getting superpowers! It’s bound to be a hit with the preschool crowd.
Sequels and New Discoveries
Sequels are taking center stage in the world of animated films. “Toy Story 5” is in the works. We’re crossing our fingers it’ll be a toy story, just as magical as the others.
Who knows what new adventures Buzz and Woody will get into?
But it’s not all about sequels. We’re always on the lookout for fresh stories that could become the best animated kids movies of tomorrow.
Studios are pushing boundaries with unique art styles and diverse storytelling.
Keep an eye out for:
“Elio”: A space adventure from Pixar
“Spy Kids: Armageddon”: A reboot of the beloved franchise
“The Tiger’s Apprentice”: An adaptation of the popular book series
We’re so excited to see what the future holds for our animated feature films!
