15 Underrated Animated Films That Deserve a Second Look
There are countless animated films out there, yet some do not get the recognition they truly deserve. Many of these films tell captivating stories and feature rich animation that has yet to be fully appreciated. It is easy to overlook them, but that does not mean they lack value. Whether they are quirky, emotional, or simply visually stunning, these films are worth revisiting. Keep reading to discover the hidden treasures in the world of animation.
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The Iron Giant (1999)
The Iron Giant is a heartfelt story set in the 1950s about a young boy who befriends a massive robot from space. Despite being a box-office disappointment at the time, the film has since gained a strong cult following. It explores themes of friendship, fear, and the power of choice, all set against a backdrop of stunning animation. The film’s emotional depth and timeless story make it an animated classic that is often overlooked.
The film’s strength lies in its ability to connect with both children and adults. Its mix of action, humor, and deeper philosophical questions resonates with audiences of all ages. Brad Bird, who later directed The Incredibles, created a powerful narrative that is still celebrated today. It is a must-watch for those who appreciate a well-crafted animated feature.
The Secret of Kells (2009)
The Secret of Kells is a visually stunning Irish animated film that brings a unique style and story to the screen. Set in medieval Ireland, it follows a young boy named Brendan who helps complete the legendary Book of Kells. The hand-drawn animation style, which is inspired by ancient Celtic art, gives the film an otherworldly feel. The movie is filled with rich mythology and historical references that often go unnoticed.
Though it was nominated for an Academy Award, The Secret of Kells didn’t get the widespread recognition it deserved. The artistry, music, and storytelling blend seamlessly, creating a magical experience. It is an ideal film for anyone who enjoys movies with intricate designs and historical depth. The film’s enchanting atmosphere makes it a standout in the world of animated cinema.
Song of the Sea (2014)
From the same creators of The Secret of Kells, Song of the Sea is a breathtaking tale based on Irish folklore. It tells the story of a young boy and his sister, who is a selkie, as they embark on a journey to save their world. The animation’s watercolor-like style gives the film a dreamlike quality, immersing viewers in a world of myth and magic. The film’s focus on family, grief, and healing makes it a deeply moving experience.
Song of the Sea may not have received the same recognition as other animated films of its time, but it is an artistic masterpiece. The rich storytelling and enchanting visuals make it stand out from mainstream animated movies. This film is perfect for viewers who are drawn to emotional, art-driven films. Its cultural references and heartfelt moments make it a gem worth discovering.
The Plague Dogs (1982)
The Plague Dogs is a haunting, often overlooked animated film from the creators of Watership Down. The movie tells the story of two dogs who escape from a laboratory where they were subjected to cruel experiments. It explores heavy themes such as animal cruelty, survival, and friendship. Though it was not widely appreciated upon its release, its raw emotional storytelling still captivates a niche audience today.
This film’s mature themes set it apart from typical animated features. Its dark, realistic portrayal of the plight of animals makes it a powerful social commentary. While it may not be suitable for younger viewers, it offers a challenging experience for those interested in animation that deals with real-world issues. The Plague Dogs deserves a second look for its emotional intensity and thought-provoking narrative.
Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)
Fantastic Mr. Fox is a stop-motion animated film directed by Wes Anderson, based on the classic Roald Dahl novel. The story follows a clever fox who, after living a quiet life, returns to his mischievous ways. The quirky humor and distinctive visual style make this film one of Anderson’s standout works. Despite being a critical success, it often gets overlooked in the wider conversation about animated films.
The film’s meticulous stop-motion animation, combined with a star-studded cast and witty dialogue, sets it apart from other animated features. Its blend of charm, humor, and cleverness makes it a delight for both children and adults. Anderson’s unique filmmaking style translates beautifully into the world of animation. Fantastic Mr. Fox is a must-see for those who appreciate quirky, offbeat films with a strong visual identity.
The Road to El Dorado (2000)
The Road to El Dorado is an adventure-comedy about two con artists who stumble upon the legendary city of gold. Although it didn’t perform well at the box office, the film has since garnered a loyal fanbase for its humor and charm. The vibrant animation and lively characters make it a fun ride from start to finish. It also features a catchy soundtrack that adds to the film’s memorable qualities.
The film’s animation style is colorful and lively, capturing the essence of an ancient civilization in a fun and accessible way. The chemistry between the two main characters is at the heart of the movie, providing plenty of comedic moments. Though it may have been overshadowed by other films released in the same period, it remains a cult classic. The Road to El Dorado is a hidden gem for anyone looking for an animated adventure.
The Emperor’s New Groove (2000)
The Emperor’s New Groove is a hilarious, fast-paced animated film from Disney that often gets overlooked among the studio’s more famous releases. The film tells the story of an arrogant emperor who is turned into a llama and must rely on a peasant to regain his throne. The witty dialogue, zany characters, and quirky humor make it a standout in Disney’s catalog. Despite its initial lack of success, the film has gained a cult following over the years.
The Emperor’s New Groove’s charm lies in its irreverent humor and unique animation style. The voice cast, led by David Spade and John Goodman, brings the characters to life with excellent comedic timing. It’s a fun, lighthearted film that doesn’t take itself too seriously. For those who enjoy offbeat Disney classics, this movie is worth revisiting.
The Last Unicorn (1982)
The Last Unicorn is an animated fantasy film based on Peter S. Beagle’s novel, and it remains a deeply beloved cult classic. The story follows a unicorn who sets off on a journey to find others of her kind, only to discover the human world’s complexities. The film blends elements of fairy tales, adventure, and fantasy in a unique and captivating way. It also features a hauntingly beautiful score by the band America, which adds to the film’s ethereal atmosphere.
Despite being a box office failure, The Last Unicorn has maintained its status as a cherished animated feature for many. The animation style, though dated by today’s standards, still holds a certain charm. The film’s themes of loss, identity, and self-discovery resonate strongly with adult viewers. It is a deeply emotional and artistic experience for those willing to dive into its fantasy world.
Coraline (2009)
Coraline, based on Neil Gaiman’s novel, is a dark fantasy stop-motion film that often gets overshadowed by other animated hits. The story follows a young girl who discovers a parallel world that seems better than her own, but it comes with dangerous secrets. The eerie, gothic style of the animation creates a haunting atmosphere that perfectly complements the film’s darker themes. Though it is considered a cult favorite, it remains underappreciated by many.
The film’s stop-motion animation is masterfully executed, with intricate details and a haunting design that lingers with viewers. Coraline’s blend of horror and fantasy offers something different from typical animated features. It is a film that challenges its young audience while offering a unique, visually stunning experience. Coraline deserves a second look for its artistic style and captivating narrative.
A Scanner Darkly (2006)
A Scanner Darkly is an experimental animated film based on Philip K. Dick’s novel, known for its distinctive rotoscope animation technique. Set in a dystopian future, the film follows an undercover cop who loses his grip on reality due to a drug-induced identity crisis. The film’s unique animation style brings its dark, surreal narrative to life, creating a world that feels both detached and unnervingly real. Despite being a critical success, it never reached the mainstream audience it deserved.
The rotoscoping technique used in the film gives it a dreamlike, unsettling quality that enhances its exploration of identity and paranoia. The voice cast, including Keanu Reeves, Robert Downey Jr., and Winona Ryder, delivers excellent performances that complement the film’s unique style. A Scanner Darkly challenges its audience with its complex themes and innovative animation. It’s a film that remains one of the most intriguing and thought-provoking animated features of its time.
The Tale of the Princess Kaguya (2013)
The Tale of the Princess Kaguya is a visually striking animated film from Studio Ghibli, known for its delicate watercolor-style animation. Based on a Japanese folktale, it tells the story of a young girl discovered in a bamboo stalk, who grows into a beautiful woman pursued by many suitors. The film’s minimalist art style sets it apart from other Ghibli films, providing an intimate and emotional experience. Though it was highly praised by critics, it did not receive the attention it deserved in wider circles.
The Tale of the Princess Kaguya’s hand-drawn animation is breathtaking, evoking a sense of fleeting beauty that complements the story’s themes of impermanence. The film’s emotional depth and nuanced portrayal of its characters make it a standout in the world of animation. It is a visually poetic exploration of love, loss, and the passage of time. This film is a masterpiece for those who appreciate subtle, artistic storytelling.
The Black Cauldron (1985)
The Black Cauldron is one of Disney’s darkest animated features, telling the story of a young pig-keeper who sets out to stop an evil warlord from using a magical cauldron to raise an army of the dead. It was a commercial failure upon release but has since earned a cult following for its mature themes and gothic atmosphere. The film stands out for its eerie atmosphere and unconventional Disney storytelling. The Black Cauldron remains one of the studio’s most underrated works.
The animation, although not as polished as some of Disney’s other films, offers a unique and haunting style. Its story is darker and more complex than typical Disney fare, which sets it apart from other family films. The Black Cauldron is an intriguing watch for those looking for an animated film that pushes boundaries. Its mature themes and emotional depth make it a film that deserves more recognition.
The Little Prince (2015)
The Little Prince, based on the classic novella by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, brings a fresh perspective to the beloved story with a combination of stop-motion and computer animation. The film blends the story of the Little Prince with a new narrative about a young girl who learns about life and imagination from her eccentric neighbor. The animation is beautifully detailed, capturing the whimsical yet poignant tone of the original story. Despite being a critical success, the film failed to find a large audience.
The Little Prince’s themes of childhood, loss, and the importance of imagination resonate deeply with audiences of all ages. The combination of storytelling formats, as well as its mix of humor and heartache, makes it a unique and captivating film. It is an emotionally rich film that explores universal themes in an accessible way. The Little Prince is a hidden gem for those who appreciate thoughtful, visually rich animated films.
Ernest & Celestine (2012)
Ernest & Celestine is a charming French-Belgian animated film about an unlikely friendship between a bear and a mouse. The film’s soft, watercolor-like animation and warm storytelling create a comforting atmosphere that appeals to viewers of all ages. Though it was well-received by critics, it remains underappreciated outside of animation circles. The movie’s focus on themes of friendship, trust, and overcoming prejudice resonates deeply, making it a standout in children’s animation.
Ernest & Celestine offers a gentle, heartfelt message about friendship and understanding. The film’s visual style is both cozy and whimsical, adding to its charm. The characters are endearing and relatable, creating a bond with the audience. It is a perfect film for those looking for a sweet, thoughtful animated feature that explores important life lessons.
The Wind Rises (2013)
The Wind Rises is a historical drama from Studio Ghibli, directed by Hayao Miyazaki. The film tells the story of Jiro Horikoshi, the designer of Japan’s Zero fighter plane during World War II. It is a deeply personal and philosophical film, touching on the balance between creativity and the consequences of war. While it was well-received by critics, it did not receive as much attention as other Ghibli films.
The animation is stunning, with lush landscapes and intricately designed aircraft taking center stage. The film’s mature themes and emotional depth set it apart from typical animated features. The Wind Rises invites reflection on the pursuit of dreams and the sacrifices that come with them. It is a beautiful and contemplative film that deserves a closer look.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.