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The term “best-animated movie” has different connotations for different individuals; thus, it’s difficult to generalize. People who grew up with classic Disney movies or other family-friendly feature-length cartoons are more likely to conceive adaptations of their favorite comic-book storylines.
It’s still possible that some people regard anime or avant-garde artists outside of the mainstream to be animation’s best. Just because they don’t have any live-action elements doesn’t mean they’re all the same.
If you’re looking for the best-animated movies available on Netflix, we’ve sifted through all the options. Everything from classics to recent films can be found here, with a wonderful array of animation styles to choose from.
Whatever your level of interest in animation, you’ll find something to enjoy here.
Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs
Writers/Directors: Christopher Miller, Phil Lord
If the song “Sunshine and Lollipops” wasn’t in the movie, you’d still be smiling ear-to-ear after watching Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs. Director Phil Lord and Christopher Miller’s anarchic silliness (I’m still not sure how they got away with the snowball scene) is present, as there’s a strong emotional connection to the story of food showering down.
There’s a heartwarming narrative of a father and son bonding, a sweet romance, and a talking monkey ripping out the heart of a gummi bear.
The Mitchells vs. The Machine
Director: Mike Rianda
The Mitchells vs. The Machines is a must-see for fans of The LEGO Movie and wacky sci-fi. This Netflix original is a family road trip comedy with a sci-fi twist, produced by Sony Pictures Animation.
An argument between the father and daughter leads to her father driving her to college himself rather than allowing her to fly there.
This was his last attempt at bringing the family together, and thus the story begins.
Their road trip coincides with a full-blown robot revolt, which forces the Mitchell family to step up as humanity’s final hope with all of their peculiarities and issues. It’s funny, uplifting, and visually impressive all at the same time.
Monster House
Director: Gil Kenan
Writers: Pamela Pettler, Rob Schrab, and Dan Harmon
Many horror films have been released over the years that have featured haunted houses, but this rarely occurs in animation. Enter Monster House, a computer-generated fright feast based on some truly terrible ghost stories.
Monster House depicts a grumpy old man as the custodian of a creaking old building, but as he succumbs to illness, the house itself is revealed to be a source of fear for the community. Three youngsters put themselves in harm’s way to uncover the mysteries of an abandoned house.
This is one haunted home story that gets better with age, with just the right amount of comedic relief to keep the little ones from freaking out.
Bee
Director: Steve Hickner, Simon J. Smith
Writer: Jerry Seinfeld, Andy Robin, Barry Marder, and Spike Feresten
A talking bee sues humankind for taking their HONEY in this ludicrous Jerry Seinfeld film. It ranks high on the scale.
Renée Zellweger plays a woman who falls for the bee, and the two of them even land an airplane together. It’s a fun ride, and it’s easy to see why it’s so adored.
Many reasons could be cited for this success, including the star-studded cast (Patrick Warburton is joined by John Goodman, Chris Rock, and Kathy Bates), the message of “justice for bees,” or even the fact that it has become a viral internet sensation.
We’re not saying you have to agree with everyone else but aren’t you fascinated about this 21st-century piece of Seinfeld?
If Anything Happens, I Love You
Director: Michael Govier, Will McCormack
This Academy Award-winning short explores the anguish of two parents following the death of their teenage daughter in a school shooting.
Even as they get more and more distant from one other, thoughts of their child bring them back together again in the shadows. Despite the heavy subject matter, they worked closely with the Everytown for Gun Safety group to make this a worthwhile watch.
How to Train Your Dragon 2
Director: Dean DeBlois
Unlike its predecessor, How to Train Your Dragon 2 begins in a completely new setting. This sequel begins with a spectacular game of “dragon racing,” in contrast to the first film’s focus on the Vikings’ long-running battle against the fire-breathing creatures
It’s like Quidditch, but with a lot more oomph. One megalomaniac is determined to ruin it all for everyone; thus, the villagers of Berk are now friends with the dragons.
Amidst all the action, Hiccup’s family history is explored, which means there are many heartfelt moments. It also serves to remind how awesome it would be to have a dragon as a pet.
Klaus
Writer/Director: Sergio Pablos
Klaus, the filmmaker Sergio Pablos’ contemporary holiday marvel (and Oscar-nominated film), is a 2D, hand-drawn animation film,
Following postal worker Jesper (Jason Schwartzman) as he is forced to work on a remote, wintery island presents a genesis narrative to Santa and the tradition of youngsters writing him letters (J.K. Simmons).
An A+ cast includes Joan Cusack and Rashida Jones, who offer their charm and charisma, but it is the enchanting Nordic-inspired art that provides this movie with the whimsical joy it needs to warm your heart at the holidays or any other time of year! In our opinion, this is a future Christmas classic.
The Lorax
Director: Chris Renaud
Although the Grinch and Green Eggs & Ham are two of Dr. Seuss’ most famous works, The Lorax can be his most thoughtful one.
Seuss’s whimsical paintings are brought to life on the big screen in this adaption, including an adolescent love tale starring Miss Americana- Taylor Swift and the crush of 90s, Zac Efron.
Even if you’ve never heard of Danny DeVito, you’ll be a tree-hugger after just one viewing of this kid’s film, which features a hairy orange guy voiced by DeVito.
In essence
We hope you have enjoyed whole-heartedly this list of wholesome animated films available on Netflix. There are plenty of more outstanding animated films out there, but these are our favorites.
If you’re planning to make an animated video and looking for a reputable video production company, consider BuzzFlick – a video animation agency in this business for decades.
From 2D animation to Post-production services, they do it all.
