49 Underrated Animation Films to Discover
48 titles
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The Good DinosaurMovie · 2015 · 93m · Adventure, Animation, FamilyA sweeping adventure into a prehistoric world follows Arlo, an Apatosaurus, as he forms an unexpected bond with a human.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.7 - 2
Chico & RitaMovie · 2010 · 93m · Animation, Music, RomanceChico is a young piano player with ambitious aspirations. Rita is a captivating singer possessing a remarkable voice. Drawn together by music and love, their story follows the classic bolero tradition, filled with both emotional pain and suffering.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.1 - 3
Highlander: The Search for VengeanceMovie · 2007 · 86m · Action, Animation, FantasyColin MacLeod seeks revenge against the man who killed the woman he loved. His pursuit of the immortal Marcus Octavius spans centuries, and the chase begins to consume him. Along the way, he encounters a woman who echoes the memory of his lost love. Ultimately, his confrontation with Marcus will determine not only his own destiny but the future of the entire world.IMDb 6.7TMDB 7.1 - 4
The Great Mouse DetectiveMovie · 1986 · 74m · Animation, Family, AdventureProfessor Ratigan plots to kidnap London's famous toymaker, aiming to control the city's theater. Detective Basil of Baker Street, a brilliant detective skilled at disguise, teams up with his assistant Dawson to stop him. They journey through London to rescue the toymaker and foil Ratigan's plan. Facing dangerous obstacles and puzzling clues, Basil and Dawson discover how much they're willing to risk for their friend. This suspenseful, humorous, and heartwarming story offers a thrilling experience from start to finish.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0 - 5
Taking FlightMovie · 2015 · 6mTaking Flight is a short film inspired by the life of Antonio Pasin, the inventor of the Radio Flyer wagon. This fictional story begins with a young boy's dull day with his grandfather, filled with too many activities and too much supervision, which unexpectedly transforms into an extraordinary adventure. The boy must overcome wild monkeys and aliens to save the universe, all through the power of imagination. In this epic journey, a boy rediscovers childhood, a father learns to be a better dad, and a grandfather reminds everyone what it truly means to be a child.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.0 - 6
The Suicide ShopMovie · 2012 · 79m · Comedy, Animation, MusicIn a bleak French city where despair is widespread, a vibrant shop, run by the Tuvache family for generations, readily supplies the means for those struggling with suicidal thoughts.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.3 - 7
Titan A.E.Movie · 2000 · 94m · Animation, Science Fiction, AdventureA young man discovers he possesses the key to humanity's future, but an aggressive alien race known as the Drej seeks to eradicate humankind.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.6 - 8
Sword of the StrangerMovie · 2007 · 103m · Action, Animation, HistoryA young boy named Kotaro and his dog are hunted across China by deadly assassins. They encounter No Name, a mysterious stranger who becomes involved in their pursuit. The trio develops a connection after No Name saves the dog from a poisoning attempt. However, the assassins locate Kotaro, forcing No Name to confront his history to prevent a devastating outcome.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.6 - 9
Shave ItMovie · 2012 · 4mDeep in the forest, where bulldozers are destroying the trees, a monkey discovers a shaving machine and begins using it. Disguised as a human, he ventures to the city and quickly builds a successful career. Recognizing the importance of political influence, he eventually becomes president. Now in power, he is poised to enact change.IMDb 5.9TMDB 6.2 - 10
A Cat in ParisMovie · 2010 · 70m · Animation, ComedyThis is a suspenseful mystery set against the backdrop of Paris, unfolding throughout a single, eventful night in the city's backstreets and on its rooftops.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.7 - 11
CencorollMovie · 2009 · 27m · Animation, Science FictionWhen a colossal monster appears, terror grips a town's residents, but Yuki and her classmate Tetsu remain calm. Tetsu also has a peculiar pet of his own, a creature called Cenco. Meanwhile, another boy, Shuu, is the one controlling the destructive monster, setting the stage for an impending confrontation.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.2 - 12
FernGully: The Last RainforestMovie · 1992 · 76m · Family, Fantasy, AnimationIn the magical rainforest of FernGully, a small boy named Zak is shrunk by Crysta, a sprite who wants to save their home from being destroyed. A logging company's greed endangers FernGully, so Zak and his fairy friends fight back against the lumberjacks to protect the forest. They must also confront a vengeful spirit that threatens their world. This story about friendship and courage shows how working together can restore balance to the enchanted realm of FernGully.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.4 - 13
TatsumiMovie · 2011 · 94mThis animated film tells the story of Yoshihiro Tatsumi, the manga writer who changed the art form by creating darker, more mature narratives. The film brings several of his stories to life through animation.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.4 - 14
A Goofy MovieMovie · 1995 · 78m · Adventure, Comedy, RomanceThis heartwarming story follows Goof, a charmingly clumsy man, and his teenage son Max on a cross-country road trip to their old family fishing spot. What starts as a simple adventure quickly becomes a series of funny mishaps that help them connect and grow closer.
The trip allows father and son to share memories and navigate the difficulties of understanding each other in a busy world. The film balances humor with genuine emotion, offering a story that appeals to everyone. It’s a celebration of family, friendship, and appreciating life's simple moments during a journey of adventure.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.0 - 15
Fantastic PlanetMovie · 1973 · 72m · Animation, Science FictionOn the planet Ygam, two species coexist in a world of inequality: the spiritually advanced Draags, who see the human-like Oms as inferior beings to be used for amusement, and the Oms, struggling to survive. Some Oms seek refuge in the planet's wilderness, but face deadly, organized hunts. The film explores themes of prejudice and power, set against the backdrop of a strange, new world.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.6 - 16
StorksMovie · 2016 · 87m · Adventure, Animation, ComedyOnce, storks delivered babies. Now, they deliver packages for a worldwide online retailer. Junior, the company's best delivery stork, is on the verge of a promotion when he accidentally activates the Baby Making Machine, resulting in the birth of an unexpected baby girl.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.7 - 17
Waltz with BashirMovie · 2008 · 90m · Drama, Animation, WarAn Israeli film director speaks with other veterans of the 1982 Lebanon War. He uses their stories to piece together his own recollections of serving in the conflict.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.7 - 18
The Secret of NIMHMovie · 1982 · 83m · Family, Animation, FantasyA widowed field mouse undertakes a journey with her family, facing hardship when a farmer's plow threatens their home. She must relocate her loved ones, including her weak son, to find safety. With help from a wise crow and escaped lab rats, the determined mother overcomes obstacles to build a new home for her family on secure ground. This story explores family, hope, and the strength found in working together.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.5 - 19
Fumiko's ConfessionMovie · 2009 · 3m · Animation, Comedy, RomanceFumiko, a schoolgirl who recently confessed her love, is rejected by the boy, who wants to focus on baseball. Heartbroken, she runs downhill through the town, increasing her speed as she cries.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.7 - 20
CHAINSAW MAIDMovie · 2009 · 7m · Animation, HorrorWhen a family is overrun by a relentless horde of zombies, their salvation rests on the shoulders of their housekeeper – a strikingly attractive woman armed with a chainsaw.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.7 - 21
Spirit: Stallion of the CimarronMovie · 2002 · 83m · Animation, Adventure, FamilyA wild mustang, taken from his family, is relentlessly driven by a desire to rejoin his herd. He will do anything to escape captivity and find his way back home.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.7 - 22
Roujin ZMovie · 1991 · 80m · Animation, Drama, Science FictionThis drama centers on Mr. Takazawa, an elderly man cared for by Haruko, a dedicated nursing student. The Japanese Ministry of Public Welfare introduces Z-001, a new computerized hospital bed with robotic functions, designed to be more efficient than human nursing. Haruko questions whether the machine can truly understand and meet Mr. Takazawa's individual needs, believing in the importance of human connection in healing. The film examines the challenges of technology in healthcare, prompting reflection on the irreplaceable human elements of patient care.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.5 - 23
The Old MillMovie · 1937 · 9m · Animation, Thriller, FamilyThis Oscar-winning short film follows a variety of creatures – birds, mice, owls, and more – as they seek shelter in an old mill during a fierce storm. As the storm intensifies, the mill's ancient wheel begins to turn ominously, threatening the building's stability. The inhabitants band together, facing the storm with determination. The film culminates in a suspenseful climax as the mill’s fate hangs in the balance. When the storm passes, the film highlights the power of unity and perseverance among unlikely allies, leaving a lasting impression.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.3 - 24
Oliver & CompanyMovie · 1988 · 74m · Animation, Comedy, FamilyThis animated version of Charles Dickens' classic story is set in New York City, populated by charming animal characters. Oliver, a small and lovable kitten, is orphaned and alone in the city. He meets Dodger, a lively and resourceful dog with a flair for trouble, and joins his gang.
The gang engages in various thefts under the command of a powerful human villain who dominates the city's streets. Oliver's life changes when he meets Jenny, a compassionate young woman. This encounter forces him to reconsider his understanding of friendship, loyalty, and family.
The film combines adventure, comedy, and drama, highlighting an orphaned animal's strength and finding comfort in unexpected friendships while confronting the complexities of human nature.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.7 - 25
The Saga of BiornMovie · 2011 · 7mAn aging Viking warrior sets out to reach Valhalla, the legendary afterlife of feasting and revelry. He believes he must die bravely in battle to earn entry, but soon learns that achieving the "right" death is a far more complicated task than he imagined.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.0 - 26
RedlineMovie · 2009 · 102m · Animation, Action, Science FictionA daring driver sets out to compete in Redline, the galaxy's most famous race, held only once every five years. His path to participation is fraught with obstacles: he must navigate powerful criminal organizations, government interference, and personal relationships.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.5 - 27
Survivor (AU)Movie · 1985 · 80m · Animation, Action, Adventure"Australian Survivor" drops 24 determined people onto a wild tropical island. Stripped of everything, they must survive using only their wits and resourcefulness – building shelters, making fire, and finding food in a demanding environment that pushes them physically and mentally. The contestants compete against the elements and each other, forming alliances and playing strategic games in a world where trust is rare and betrayal is always a possibility. This intense competition series explores human instinct, survival skills, and the drive to win in a fundamental setting.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.4 - 28
Mind GameMovie · 2004 · 103m · Animation, Romance, ComedyNishi is a failure with a longing for his childhood sweetheart. Following a run-in with the Japanese mafia, he experiences a trip to heaven and back, only to find himself stranded in an even stranger location.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.5 - 29
Song of the SeaMovie · 2014 · 94m · Family, Animation, FantasyThis is the story of Ben and Saoirse, the last Seal Children, who embark on a journey home after their mother vanishes. Sent to live with their Granny in the city, they resolve to return to their seaside home, but their journey becomes urgent as they enter a world of magic from their mother's stories. These fairy folk have lingered in our world for too long, and Ben discovers Saoirse holds the key to their survival.IMDb 8.0TMDB 8.0 - 30
Batman: Assault on ArkhamMovie · 2014 · 76m · Thriller, Animation, ActionBatman races against time to locate a bomb hidden by the Joker, all while Amanda Waller dispatches her new Suicide Squad on a mission to infiltrate Arkham Asylum and retrieve crucial data stolen by the Riddler.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.3 - 31
AntzMovie · 1998 · 83m · Animation, Family, ComedyArchie, a worried ant, unexpectedly swaps places with a brave soldier and finds himself torn between love and war. After falling for the spirited Princess Lily, Archie joins a ceremonial parade. But his new life takes a dangerous turn when a ruthless general secretly recruits him to fight a powerful termite army. As Archie experiences battle, the difference between love and conflict blurs in this heartwarming and action-filled story about loyalty, courage, and finding himself.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.2 - 32
9Movie · 2009 · 79m · Action, Adventure, AnimationWhen 9 first awakens, he discovers a desolate world devoid of humans. He unexpectedly finds a small group of others like him, sheltering from dangerous machines that hunt them. Though new to the group, 9 persuades them that hiding is not a viable solution.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.9 - 33
Sausage PartyMovie · 2016 · 89m · Adventure, Animation, ComedyFrank, a hot dog, leads a team of grocery items on a journey to uncover the reality of their lives and what happens when they are selected to leave the store.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.8 - 34
VincentMovie · 1982 · 6mVincent Malloy is captivated by the work of Vincent Price and immerses himself in dark fantasies, much to his mother's dismay.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.9 - 35
Rain TownMovie · 2011 · 10mFor as long as anyone can remember, this town has been perpetually drenched in rain. Most residents have since relocated to drier areas. Time and the weather have blurred memories. Yet, occasionally, a stranger stumbles into this forgotten, rain-soaked place.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.6 - 36
Scooby-Doo on Zombie IslandMovie · 1998 · 77m · Animation, Mystery, FamilyThe Mystery Inc. gang reunites for a new adventure on a bayou island to investigate a haunting. They're tracking the ghost of Moonscar the pirate, but soon discover other terrifying creatures are lurking. Encountering cat-like monsters and zombies, the team realizes these supernatural beings are real. Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Velma, Daphne, and Fred must overcome their fears and solve the mystery of the haunted island before it's too late.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.7 - 37
Justice League: The Flashpoint ParadoxMovie · 2013 · 81m · Animation, Science Fiction, AdventureThe Flash arrives in a devastated alternate reality and joins forces with different versions of his friends to fix the timeline.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.9 - 38AriaMovie · 2001 · 11mOn a lush, remote island, Butterfly lives in solitude until a ship arrives carrying the charming sailor Pinkerton. The story is inspired by Giacomo Puccini’s opera *Madame Butterfly*.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.3
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The Princess and the RobotMovie · 1984 · 93mIn the whimsical world of Planet Carrotland, Lord Raider and his robot companion live a peaceful life. When a cosmic event from the Pulsar star sparks feelings in the robot for Princess Mimi, a sweet pink bunny, their love is threatened. The king announces a tournament to decide who will win the Princess's hand in marriage.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.6 - 40
All Dogs Go to HeavenMovie · 1989 · 84m · Drama, Animation, FamilyAfter being murdered by his rival Carface, Charlie, a shrewd casino owner, arrives in heaven for dogs. Determined to avenge his death and reclaim his business, he teams up with Mr. Clawson, a devilish figure, to return to the living world. He's warned that this will mean eternal damnation.
Back on Earth, Charlie reconnects with his loyal partner Itchy and plots revenge against Carface. They meet a young orphan who can talk to animals, giving them inside information for winning horse races. As their quest for vengeance intensifies, Charlie is haunted by nightmares of hell and begins to doubt whether revenge is worth losing his soul.
This animated film examines loyalty, redemption, and the impact of difficult choices, set against a backdrop of high-stakes gambling and daring schemes.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.8 - 41
Professor Layton and the Eternal DivaMovie · 2009 · 99m · Family, Animation, MysteryProfessor Layton, an archaeologist and puzzle enthusiast, and his assistant Luke find themselves in an adventure when a masked person steals an opera house. The stolen guests are forced to compete in a dangerous game: the victor gains eternal life, while the losers face death.IMDb 6.7TMDB 7.5 - 42
The Plague DogsMovie · 1982 · 86m · Adventure, Animation, DramaTwo unlikely heroes, Rowf and Snitter, race across the English countryside for survival after escaping an animal research laboratory. They must evade search parties, including the military, who believe they carry the bubonic plague.
This adventure follows the dogs as they use their instincts to stay ahead of those pursuing them. Their journey highlights loyalty, trust, and friendship in a desperate fight for survival.
Facing overwhelming odds, the duo makes difficult choices, raising questions about what it means to survive when facing captivity. This gripping story is a deeply emotional and thought-provoking experience.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.9 - 43
Dead LeavesMovie · 2004 · 52m · Animation, Comedy, CrimePandy and Retro find themselves naked on Earth, with no memory of who they are or where they came from. Driven by hunger and the need for clothes, they begin a series of crimes. Eventually, they are caught and sent to Dead Leaves, a notorious prison on the moon.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0 - 44
Ernest & CelestineMovie · 2012 · 80m · Animation, Family, AdventureCelestine, a small mouse, wants nothing to do with a career in dentistry. Ernest, a large bear, yearns for a creative outlet. Their paths cross, and despite their inherent differences, Celestine and Ernest find common ground, embarking on a life of crime together.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.8 - 45
La Maison en Petits CubesMovie · 2008 · 12m · Animation*La Maison en Petits Cubes* follows a grandfather who builds his house with blocks to keep the rising floodwaters at bay, triggering a cascade of cherished memories.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.9 - 46
Captain Underpants: The First Epic MovieMovie · 2017 · 89m · Family, Comedy, AnimationThis hilarious comedy follows George and Harold, two kids with wild imaginations, who hypnotize their principal into believing he's a superhero called Captain Underpants – a hero who's both enthusiastic and not very bright.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.3 - 47
ColorfulMovie · 2010 · 127m · Animation, Drama, FamilyAt the train station to die, a disheartened man is told he's been granted a second chance. He's reborn as 14-year-old Kobayashi Makoto, who recently died by suicide. Guided by a spirit named Purapura, the soul must uncover his biggest regret from his past life before his time in Makoto's body expires. He also has other tasks: understanding why Makoto took his own life and learning to appreciate this new life.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2 - 48
The RewardMovie · 2013 · 9mDriven by dreams of recognition, two young boys embark on a life-changing treasure hunt.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0
