The Most Popular Animated Movies of Recent Years You Can’t Miss

Animated films have a magical way of captivating audiences of all ages with their vibrant characters, fantastical events, and heartwarming stories. From defying the laws of physics to exploring deep emotional journeys, these movies never fail to entertain. In this post, we’ve rounded up the most-watched animated films of recent years that have taken the world by storm. Don’t miss out on these unforgettable animated gems – grab your popcorn and enjoy the ride!

The Wild Robot (2024) – IMDb: 8.3

In this animated film, Roz, a highly intelligent robot, is stranded on a deserted island after a shipwreck. As she fights to survive in this harsh environment, Roz forms bonds with the island's animals and becomes the caretaker of an orphaned gosling. Directed by Chris Sanders, the film stars Lupita Nyong'o, Pedro Pascal, and Kit Connor.

Hotel Transylvania (2012) – IMDb: 7.0

Dracula runs a luxurious resort far from the human world, where he can protect his family from humans. However, when a young man stumbles upon the resort and falls in love with Dracula’s daughter, the overprotective vampire becomes even more defensive. Directed by Genndy Tartakovsky, the movie features the voices of Adam Sandler, Kevin James, and Andy Samberg.

Moana (2016) – IMDb: 7.6

Set in ancient Polynesia, this animated film tells the story of Moana, a young girl who answers the call to restore her island after a terrible curse, which was created by the demigod Maui. Moana embarks on a journey to find Maui and save her people. Directed by Ron Clements, John Musker, and Don Hall, the movie stars Auli'i Cravalho, Dwayne Johnson, and Rachel House.

The Remarkable Life of Ibelin (2024) – IMDb: 8.4

This documentary centers on Norwegian actor Mats Steen, who tragically passed away at the age of 25 from a degenerative muscle disease. After his death, his parents began receiving heartfelt messages from Mats’ online friends from all over the world, leading them to realize that their son’s life was not as isolated as they had believed. Directed by Benjamin Ree, the film stars Jessica Carroll, Zoe Croft, and Kelsey Ellison.

The Book of Life (2014) – IMDb: 7.2

The story follows Manolo, a young man caught between meeting his family’s expectations and following his own heart. He embarks on an adventurous journey across three fantastical worlds, where he faces his greatest fears. Directed by Jorge R. Gutiérrez, this film features the voices of Diego Luna, Zoe Saldana, and Channing Tatum.

WALL·E (2008) – IMDb: 8.4

This animated sci-fi film takes place on a future Earth, where a waste-collecting robot named WALL·E is tasked with cleaning up a planet abandoned by humans. WALL·E meets another robot named EVE and falls in love. Together, they embark on a journey that will change the fate of humanity. Directed by Andrew Stanton, the film stars Ben Burtt, Elissa Knight, and Jeff Garlin.

Howl's Moving Castle (2004) – IMDb: 8.2

In this magical tale, a young woman named Sophie is cursed by a jealous witch and transformed into an old woman. Her only hope for breaking the curse lies with Howl, a young wizard who lives in a walking castle. Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, this beloved film features the voices of Chieko Baishô, Takuya Kimura, and Tatsuya Gashûin.

Shrek (2001) – IMDb: 7.9

This animated classic follows the story of Shrek, a grumpy ogre whose swamp becomes overrun by fairy tale creatures exiled by a cruel lord. To reclaim his land, Shrek embarks on a mission to rescue a princess for the lord. Directed by Andrew Adamson and Vicky Jenson, it features the voices of Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, and Cameron Diaz.

Kiki's Delivery Service (1989) – IMDb: 7.8

Kiki, a young witch, moves to a seaside town with her black cat, Jiji, and starts a flying delivery service. In the process, she grows through magical encounters, forms lasting friendships, and discovers her purpose in life. Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, this heartwarming film stars Kirsten Dunst, Minami Takayama, and Rei Sakuma.

Transformers One (2024) – IMDb: 7.7

The film delves into the past of Optimus Prime and Megatron, two sworn enemies whose rivalry once changed the fate of Cybertron. Despite being bitter enemies, they were once brothers. Directed by Josh Cooley, the film features the voices of Chris Hemsworth, Brian Tyree Henry, and Scarlett Johansson.