24 Must-Watch Animated Movies for the Whole Family

You guys know I love a good movie, and animated films hold a special place in my heart. They're not just for kids! I've been thinking about some of my favorites lately and decided to share a list of 24 animated gems that are perfect for family viewing. There's something here for everyone, from classic Disney to more recent hits. Check them out!

1. The Lion King (1994)

Oh my goodness, where do I even begin with The Lion King? This movie is an absolute masterpiece! The story of Simba's journey from carefree cub to rightful king is timeless, filled with powerful themes of family, responsibility, and overcoming adversity. The music is iconic (who doesn't belt out "Hakuna Matata"?), the animation is breathtaking, and the voice acting is superb. It's a true Disney classic that has touched generations. It’s definitely one of the best animated movies ever made!

Sequels/Related Films:

• The Lion King II: Simba's Pride (1998)
• The Lion King 1½ (2004)
• The Lion King (2019) (Live-action remake)

2. Coco (2017)

Coco is a vibrant and heartwarming celebration of family, culture, and the power of memory. The story of Miguel's journey to the Land of the Dead is visually stunning, with rich colors and intricate details. It beautifully explores Mexican traditions surrounding Día de los Muertos, and the music is absolutely fantastic. This movie is a real tearjerker (in the best way!), and it's a must-watch for anyone who appreciates beautiful storytelling. It's a modern classic for sure.

3. Ratatouille (2007)

A rat who dreams of becoming a chef? It sounds crazy, but Ratatouille makes it work brilliantly! This movie is charming, funny, and surprisingly sophisticated. The animation of the food is so realistic you'll practically be able to smell it! It’s a story about following your passion, no matter how unlikely it seems. This movie is a great reminder that anyone can cook, and it's definitely one of Pixar's finest.

4. Toy Story (1995)

Toy Story changed the animation game forever! As the first fully computer-animated feature film, it paved the way for so many others. But beyond the groundbreaking technology, it’s the heart of the story that makes it so special. The bond between Woody and Buzz is so relatable, and the movie perfectly captures the magic of childhood and the bond we form with our toys. It’s funny, heartwarming, and a true classic.

Sequels:

• Toy Story 2 (1999)
• Toy Story 3 (2010)
• Toy Story 4 (2019)

5. Finding Nemo (2003)

"Just keep swimming!" Finding Nemo is an underwater adventure that's both thrilling and touching. The animation of the ocean and its inhabitants is absolutely stunning, and the story of a father's desperate search for his son is incredibly moving. It's a story about overcoming fears and the power of family, and it's filled with memorable characters.

Sequel:

• Finding Dory (2016)

6. The Incredibles (2004)

A family of superheroes trying to live a normal life? The Incredibles is a clever and action-packed movie that's also surprisingly relatable. The characters are fantastic, the action sequences are thrilling, and the story explores themes of family dynamics and finding your place in the world. It’s a super fun movie (pun intended!), and it's definitely one of the best superhero movies, animated or otherwise.

Sequel:

• Incredibles 2 (2018)

7. WALL-E (2008)

WALL-E is a truly unique and beautiful film. It tells a powerful story about environmentalism, consumerism, and the importance of human connection, with very little dialogue for a good portion of the movie. The animation is stunning, and WALL-E himself is one of the most endearing characters ever created. It’s a movie that will stay with you long after you’ve seen it.

8. Up (2009)

Prepare for some tears! Up is a heartwarming and bittersweet story about loss, adventure, and finding new beginnings. The opening sequence is incredibly moving, and the rest of the film is filled with stunning visuals and memorable characters. It’s a reminder that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams.

9. Frozen (2013)

"Let it go!" Okay, I had to. Frozen took the world by storm, and it's easy to see why. This movie is a visual spectacle, with stunning animation of snowy landscapes and magical ice powers. The story of two sisters, Elsa and Anna, is heartwarming and empowering, and the music is absolutely unforgettable. It’s a modern Disney classic that has resonated with audiences of all ages.

Sequel:

• Frozen II (2019)

10. Zootopia (2016)

Zootopia is a clever and insightful movie that tackles important themes of prejudice and stereotypes in a way that's both entertaining and thought-provoking. The world-building is fantastic, and the characters are all unique and memorable. It’s a fun, fast-paced adventure with a powerful message.

11. How to Train Your Dragon (2010)

This movie is a soaring adventure about the unlikely friendship between a Viking teenager and a dragon. How to Train Your Dragon is visually stunning, with incredible animation of dragons in flight. The story is heartwarming and exciting, and it explores themes of acceptance and understanding. It’s a truly magical film.

Sequels:

• How to Train Your Dragon 2 (2014)
• How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World (2019)
• How to Train Your Dragon (2025) (Live-action remake)

12. Spirited Away (2001)

Spirited Away is a masterpiece of Japanese animation from Studio Ghibli. This movie is a visual feast, with breathtakingly beautiful animation and a fantastical story that will capture your imagination. It’s a coming-of-age story with themes of courage, perseverance, and the importance of remembering your name. It's a truly unique and unforgettable cinematic experience.

13. Moana (2016)

Moana is a vibrant and empowering adventure set in the beautiful world of Polynesia. The animation of the ocean is absolutely stunning, and the music is catchy and inspiring. Moana is a fantastic role model, and the story celebrates Polynesian culture and mythology in a beautiful way.

14. Inside Out (2015)

Inside Out takes us inside the human mind and introduces us to the personified emotions of Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust. This movie is incredibly clever and insightful, and it explains complex emotions in a way that's both entertaining and understandable. It’s a must-see for anyone who's ever wondered what's going on inside their head.

15. Kubo and the Two Strings (2016)

Kubo and the Two Strings is a visually stunning stop-motion animated film with a captivating story. The animation is incredibly detailed and expressive, and the story is a beautiful blend of Japanese mythology and folklore. It’s a truly unique and artistic film.

16. Shrek (2001)

Shrek is a hilarious and irreverent take on classic fairy tales. This movie is full of witty humor and memorable characters, and it subverts traditional fairy tale tropes in a clever way. It’s a fun and entertaining movie for the whole family, and it’s become a modern classic.

Sequels:

• Shrek 2 (2004)
• Shrek the Third (2007)
• Shrek Forever After (2010)

17. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018)

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is a groundbreaking and visually stunning animated film that completely reinvents the Spider-Man story. The animation style is unique and dynamic, blending different artistic styles to create a truly immersive experience. The story is fresh and exciting, introducing us to Miles Morales and a whole multiverse of Spider-People. It's a must-see for any superhero fan.

18. My Neighbor Totoro (1988)

My Neighbor Totoro is a heartwarming and magical film from Studio Ghibli. It tells the story of two young sisters who move to the countryside and befriend a giant forest spirit named Totoro. It's a gentle and charming film that captures the wonder and imagination of childhood. It’s a classic for a reason.

19. Princess Mononoke (1997)

Princess Mononoke is another masterpiece from Studio Ghibli, this time taking on more mature themes of environmentalism and the conflict between humanity and nature. The animation is stunning, and the story is complex and thought-provoking. It's a powerful and unforgettable film.

20. Beauty and the Beast (1991)

Beauty and the Beast is a beloved Disney classic that tells the timeless story of Belle and the Beast. The animation is beautiful, the music is enchanting, and the story is full of heart. It's a tale as old as time, and it continues to resonate with audiences today.

Related Films:

• Beauty and the Beast (2017) (Live-action remake)

21. Aladdin (1992)

Aladdin is a high-energy and entertaining Disney classic with memorable characters, catchy songs, and stunning animation. Robin Williams' performance as the Genie is iconic, and the story of Aladdin's journey from street urchin to prince is full of adventure and heart.

Related Films:

• The Return of Jafar (1994)
• Aladdin and the King of Thieves (1996)
• Aladdin (2019) (Live-action remake)

22. Tangled (2010)

Tangled is a charming and visually stunning Disney film that puts a fresh spin on the classic Rapunzel story. The animation is beautiful, the characters are engaging, and the music is catchy. It's a fun and heartwarming adventure for the whole family.

23. The Iron Giant (1999)

The Iron Giant is a heartwarming and touching story about the unlikely friendship between a young boy and a giant robot from outer space. It's a film with a powerful message about peace and understanding, and it's become a beloved classic.

24. Big Hero 6 (2014)

Big Hero 6 is a fun and action-packed Disney film that blends superhero action with heartwarming themes of friendship and loss. The characters are engaging, the animation is dynamic, and the story is both exciting and emotional. It's a great movie for superhero fans of all ages.

See also: All-Age Delights: Top Anime Movies for Kids and Tweens