Animated films have a magical ability to transcend age, drawing in both children and adults alike with vibrant visuals, compelling stories, and characters that often feel like family. Netflix has become a treasure trove of animated films, offering a wealth of options that cater to various tastes and moods. Whether you’re seeking laughter, heartfelt moments, or thrilling adventures, this guide will help you navigate the world of animated cinema on Netflix.
Why Watch Animated Films?
Animated films are not just for kids. The genre is known for its storytelling innovation and emotional depth. From family-friendly comedies to more mature narratives, animated movies can tackle complex themes, making them a perfect choice for viewers of all ages. Moreover, with Netflix continually expanding its library, the platform features a diverse range of titles that are worth exploring.
Categories of Recommendations
To make it easier to choose the perfect movie for your next movie night, we’ll break down our recommendations into specific categories: By Mood, By Genre, By Age Group, and Hidden Gems. This way, you’ll find exactly what you’re in the mood for!
By Mood
For a Good Laugh
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The Mitchells vs. The Machines
- Summary: This delightful film follows the Mitchell family as they embark on a road trip, only to find themselves fighting off a robot apocalypse.
- What Makes It Special: The film artfully balances humor and heart, showcasing eccentric family dynamics while delivering stunning animation.
- Where to Watch: Exclusively on Netflix.
- Trivia: The film was produced by Sony Pictures Animation and features a voice cast including Abbi Jacobson and Danny McBride.
- Kung Fu Panda
- Summary: Follow Po, a bumbling panda, as he pursues his dream of becoming a kung fu master.
- What Makes It Special: The film impresses with its engaging storyline, exceptional animation quality, and a strong message about believing in oneself.
- Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
- Audience Rating: This film has an impressive 87% on Rotten Tomatoes.
For Heartwarming Moments
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A Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon
- Summary: Shaun the Sheep and friends embark on an out-of-this-world adventure when a cute alien crash-lands in their backyard.
- What Makes It Special: Its charming stop-motion animation and clever humor make it suitable for all ages.
- Where to Watch: Streamable on Netflix.
- Trivia: This film was nominated for the Best Animated Feature at the Academy Awards.
- Finding ‘Ohana
- Summary: A treasure hunting adventure in Hawaii brings a family closer to their roots and each other.
- What Makes It Special: Balances adventure with poignant family themes and showcases Hawaiian culture beautifully.
- Where to Watch: Exclusively on Netflix.
- Audience Rating: It boasts a 67% on Rotten Tomatoes but has garnered positive audience reviews for its heartwarming story.
By Genre
Adventure
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Over the Moon
- Summary: A young girl builds a rocket ship to find a legendary moon goddess.
- What Makes It Special: The musical elements combined with awe-inspiring visuals make it a captivating narrative about grief and love.
- Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
- Trivia: The film features original songs penned by the renowned Lin-Manuel Miranda.
- Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle
- Summary: A darker retelling of the classic Jungle Book story, focusing on Mowgli’s struggle between his human heritage and animal instincts.
- What Makes It Special: Unlike other adaptations, this film provides a more mature angle on the beloved tale.
- Where to Watch: Exclusively on Netflix.
- Audience Rating: It holds a 53% rating on Rotten Tomatoes but has been praised for its visual effects.
Fantasy
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The Dragon Prince
- Summary: Set in a magical land, two human princes and an elvish assassin embark on a quest to bring peace to their warring kingdoms.
- What Makes It Special: The series has a rich narrative with nuanced characters and is known for its stunning animation.
- Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
- Trivia: Created by the team behind Avatar: The Last Airbender, the show has a dedicated fanbase.
- How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World
- Summary: Hiccup and Toothless discover the hidden world of dragons while dealing with a new threat.
- What Makes It Special: The film ties up the trilogy beautifully, weaving themes of friendship and responsibility.
- Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
- Audience Rating: It has an impressive 91% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
By Age Group
Kids
- Trolls World Tour
- Summary: The trolls discover that there are other kinds of music and embark on a quest to unite them.
- What Makes It Special: A celebration of music and diversity, it’s packed with catchy songs and vibrant visuals.
- Where to Watch: Exclusively on Netflix.
- Trivia: The soundtrack features iconic songs from various genres.
Family
- My Little Pony: A New Generation
- Summary: Set in a world where ponies no longer believe in friendship, a new generation of friends embarks on a quest to restore harmony.
- What Makes It Special: The film introduces modern themes of acceptance and diversity while retaining the charm of the original franchise.
- Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
- Audience Rating: It boasts a solid 5.8/10 on IMDb.
Hidden Gems
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I Lost My Body
- Summary: This French animated film follows a severed hand’s quest to reunite with its body while telling the story of the body’s past.
- What Makes It Special: The film utilizes creative storytelling methods, blending magical realism with deep emotional themes.
- Where to Watch: Exclusively on Netflix.
- Audience Ratings: It holds a 95% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
- Klaus
- Summary: A postman and a reclusive toymaker unite to bring joy to a city that has lost its holiday spirit.
- What Makes It Special: Klaus reinvents the origin story of Santa Claus with stunning animation and a charming narrative.
- Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
- Trivia: This film received a nomination for Best Animated Feature at the Academy Awards.
Unique Tips and Trivia
- Explore Various Cultures: Many films on Netflix are inspired by diverse cultures and folk tales, such as "The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind" and "The Breadwinner," providing a unique viewing experience.
- Watch for Special Features: Netflix often produces behind-the-scenes content and "making of" documentaries for their animated films, perfect for those interested in the filmmaking process.
- Family-Friendly and Mature Options: While many animated films cater to younger audiences, Netflix also features more mature narratives that tackle complex themes, giving adults plenty to enjoy as well.
Conclusion
Netflix’s library of animated films is rich and varied, offering something for every viewer, whether you’re after a lighthearted comedy, a grand adventure, or a heartwarming tale. As you dive into these cinematic gems, don’t forget to keep an eye on the platform for new releases and hidden treasures that constantly emerge.
So grab your popcorn, settle in, and prepare for a journey through some of the finest animated movies that Netflix has to offer. Happy streaming!
For more cinematic explorations, check out our guides on Top Family Movies on Netflix or Best Documentaries to Stream Right Now. Your perfect movie night is just a click away!
