Animated films have been pivotal in shaping our childhood memories and, for some, even our adult experiences. Iconic titles like The Lion King, Toy Story, and Ice Age are revered classics that remain etched in our minds. These films continue to thrive through remakes, extensive marketing, and successful franchise expansions. Yet, there exists a treasure trove of underrated animated films that didn’t receive the recognition they deserve.
These hidden gems, although less celebrated, possess the same captivating charm and emotional warmth as their more famous counterparts. Often overlooked, they are waiting to be rediscovered. From exhilarating journeys across breathtaking landscapes to fresh takes on timeless stories, these underrated animated movies are still deserving of your attention.
10. Spirit: Stallion Of The Cimarron (2002)
Directed By Kelly Asbury & Lorna Cook
Upon its 2002 debut, Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron achieved moderate success and even earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Feature. This Western tale stands out for its unique storytelling, featuring animal characters who communicate without the use of anthropomorphism. This approach, along with its rich emotional depth and breathtaking animation, gives the film an authentic appeal.
Despite its initial popularity and subsequent Netflix adaptations, Spirit has unfortunately faded from mainstream discussion. Critics noted that its straightforward narrative may resonate more with children than adults, yet the movie’s unfiltered beauty and poignant moments can transport viewers back to a simpler time. A revisit might be just what you need!
9. Epic (2013)
Directed By Chris Wedge
Though Epic features vibrant characters and stunning visuals, it hasn’t created a lasting cultural impact like other animated films. This story follows M.K., a defiant teenage girl who is miniaturized and finds herself in a secret realm defended by tiny warriors determined to protect their forest. The film’s intriguing concept and familiar themes make it a worthwhile watch.
Released in 2013 to mixed reviews, Epic didn’t achieve the commercial success of competitors, leading to its current status as an underrated film. Despite its simple storyline, the genuine and heartfelt qualities make it just as engaging as many mainstream animated features.
8. The Swan Princess (1994)
Directed By Richard Rich
One of the most memorable moments in The Swan Princess is when Odette breaks off her engagement with Derek for his shallow response to her question about his feelings for her. This pivotal scene showcases the film’s deeper exploration of identity beyond physical appearance. Unfortunately, The Swan Princess is often overshadowed by other groundbreaking animated classics.
With a captivating soundtrack, mystical curses, and a heroine transformed into a swan, this delightful tale is both enchanting and clever, drawing from the classic story of Swan Lake. Released the same year as The Lion King, its commercial performance was impacted. Despite direct-to-video sequels boosting its popularity, the film still deserves more recognition.
7. The Prince Of Egypt (1998)
Directed By Brenda Chapman, Steve Hickner, & Simon Wells
Upon its release, The Prince of Egypt was celebrated as one of the finest animated films ever created. This visual masterpiece tells the story of the Exodus, enriched by a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack and stunning voice performances from stars like Val Kilmer and Ralph Fiennes. While it received critical acclaim and heavy box office success, its more solemn tone may have limited its mainstream appeal.
Unlike other lighthearted DreamWorks films, The Prince of Egypt focuses on profound themes such as destiny and morality. This deeper narrative, while emotionally impactful, lacks the requisite humor that often characterizes successful animated features. Nevertheless, it remains one of DreamWorks’ standout productions.
6. The Road To El Dorado (2000)
Directed By Eric “Bibo”Bergeron & Don Paul
The animated adventure of The Road to El Dorado follows the charming con-artist duo Miguel and Tulio as they embark on a quest for gold in a mythical city. Featuring sparkling dialogue and a mesmerizing score, this cleverly written film is a fresh take on ancient legends.
Despite its humorous approach and the dynamic chemistry between its protagonists, the film did not garner favorable reviews at the time of its release. However, it recently regained some popularity through social media, where its memorable scenes have inspired memes. This resurgence could lead to a new audience appreciating this delightful animated gem.
5. Thumbelina (1994)
Directed By Don Bluth & Gary Goldman
Thumbelina, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale, introduces audiences to a charming heroine no bigger than a thumb. This visually whimsical movie tells the story of a young girl seeking love and belonging. While it did not achieve the same commercial success as other films upon release, it won the hearts of many children in the 1990s.
Over time, Thumbelina has fallen into obscurity, overshadowed by more prominent Disney and Pixar titles. Yet this timeless tale, filled with nostalgia, humor, and emotion, deserves a reminder of its own. A heartfelt story like this, though not a blockbuster, truly deserves a more prominent place in our memories.
4. The Great Mouse Detective (1986)
Directed By John Musker, Dave Michener, Ron Clements, & Burny Mattinson
Inspired by Arthur Conan Doyle’s brilliant detective character, Basil isn’t your typical hero; he is a talented mouse detective solving mysteries in Victorian London. The Great Mouse Detective stands as one of the finest examples of animated storytelling, earning acclaim upon its release.
However, over time, it seems to have disappeared from the spotlight. Unlike other classics, it has not benefitted from sequels or remakes. Revitalizing this intriguing animated detective story could rekindle interest in a plot that deserves to be alive in the public’s memory.
3. Treasure Planet (2002)
Directed By John Musker & Ron Clements
Treasure Planet, a unique reimagining of Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic tale, transports the story into outer space. At first, it was met with limited financial success, yet critics praised its bold approach and rich character development. Featuring memorable characters like Jim Hawkins and Long John Silver, it also boasts a compelling soundtrack and earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Feature.
Unfortunately, this cinematic masterpiece has struggled to maintain a lasting presence in popular culture. With its groundbreaking animation overshadowed by other mainstream titles, Treasure Planet remains among the most underrated Disney films.
2. Dinosaur (2000)
Directed By Ralph Zondag & Eric Leighton
Capitalizing on the popularity of dinosaurs in cinema, Disney’s Dinosaur was an innovative blend of live-action and CGI animation, emerging as one of the highest-grossing films of 2000. Its remarkable visuals and pioneering technology made it a spectacle.
However, despite its initial success, Dinosaur has slipped through the cracks of Disney’s legacy. Lacking catchy tunes and an overly simplistic plot, it failed to achieve iconic status like many other animated films. Yet, its emotional depth and heartfelt storytelling ensure that it deserves a place in the annals of animated history.
1. The Lord Of The Rings (1978)
Directed By Ralph Bakshi
Ralph Bakshi’s animated The Lord of the Rings, released in 1978, was a bold and experimental depiction of J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic saga. Competing against a blockbuster live-action trilogy, this adaptation struggled for recognition. Nevertheless, it achieved financial success and presented a captivating interpretation of the beloved literary world.
While it may not reach the grandeur of Peter Jackson’s acclaimed adaptations, the 1978 version retains a certain charm and creativity. Although overshadowed by later interpretations, its originality and profound influence on subsequent works deserve to be acknowledged.