W2TCH

22 Animated Films Recommended by Harvard

21 titles

Default order ↑PopularityIMDb ratingTMDB ratingRelease dateRuntimeTitleBudgetBox office
  1. 1Princess MononokeMovie · 1997 · 134m · Adventure, Fantasy, AnimationPrince Ashitaka of the Emishi is cursed by a vengeful boar god and journeys west seeking a cure. His travels force him to confront the clash between those who want to protect the forest and those who seek to exploit it. He meets San, a fierce protector of the woods, and Lady Eboshi, a determined leader aiming for prosperity by using the forest's resources. Ashitaka must now navigate the conflict between these opposing forces, searching for a way to find balance between nature and humanity.Stream onIMDb 8.3TMDB 8.3
  2. 2The Cameraman's RevengeMovie · 1912 · 13m · Animation, ComedyA husband seeks revenge for his wife's affair by making a stop-motion animated film exposing her infidelity. Using beetles as characters, he tells a story of love, betrayal, and redemption. As the film prepares to be shown at the local cinema, anticipation grows. The movie reveals a secret while exploring human emotions. With its unique storytelling and animation, the film is both entertaining and thought-provoking.IMDb 7.7TMDB 6.9
  3. 3My Neighbor TotoroMovie · 1988 · 86m · Fantasy, Animation, FamilyTwo sisters, Kiki and Chizu, leave their city home and move with their father to be near their mother, who is hospitalized. While adjusting to their new surroundings, they discover a magical secret: ancient Totoros live in the forest. The youngest sister, Satsuyu, finds a giant, flying Totoro who becomes her friend. When Satsuyu runs away upset, Kiki, the older sister, must seek help from the Totoros to find her. The sisters go on a fantastical journey together, strengthening their bond and connection to nature. The film shows how magic can be found everywhere and how love helps during difficult times.Stream onIMDb 8.1TMDB 8.1
  4. 4Fast and Furry-ousMovie · 1949 · 7m · Animation, ComedyThis animated short film introduces Wile E. Coyote and the Road Runner for the first time. Set in the 1940s, it establishes the core dynamic of their relationship: Wile E. Coyote relentlessly tries to catch the speedy Road Runner using elaborate traps and inventions. This early film, before the Acme Corporation becomes involved, showcases the humor and unpredictable results that define these iconic characters.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.0
  5. 5Nausicaä of the Valley of the WindMovie · 1984 · 117m · Adventure, Animation, FantasyAfter a devastating apocalypse, the peaceful kingdom of the Valley of the Wind is one of the last safe places left. It's surrounded by a poisonous forest protected by giant insects. Princess Nausicaä works to find a way for people and nature to live together, guiding her people on a hopeful path toward healing the environment. Her bravery and understanding lead her on a compelling journey about strength, compassion, and finding balance after destruction.Stream onIMDb 8.0TMDB 7.9
  6. 6The StreetMovie · 1977 · 10mThe film centers on a Montreal Jewish family navigating their grandmother's final days. As she passes away, a young boy anxiously awaits the room he has been promised.Stream onIMDb 6.6TMDB 5.6
  7. 7Gertie the DinosaurMovie · 1914 · 12m · Animation, ComedyThis influential animated film, often thought to be the first feature-length animation, was a crucial step in creating cartoons focused on character. Unlike earlier "trick films," this movie featured a character with a personality that resonated with audiences. This innovation paved the way for popular cartoon series by Walt Disney and others. Historically, the film is significant for its use of keyframe animation, a technique that improved animation smoothness and character expression.Stream onIMDb 7.1TMDB 6.7
  8. 8Snow White and the Seven DwarfsMovie · 1938 · 83m · Fantasy, Animation, FamilySnow White is forced to flee her kingdom after her stepmother, the Queen, becomes jealous of her beauty. She finds refuge in a cottage belonging to seven dwarfs. The Queen, determined to remain the fairest, sees Snow White as a threat and sends her to be harmed. This story follows Snow White and the dwarfs as they work together to escape the Queen's dangerous plots, discovering the strength of friendship and love in the face of hardship.Stream onIMDb 7.6TMDB 7.1
  9. 9Dimensions of DialogueMovie · 1983 · 12m · Animation, ComedyThis film examines the complexities of how we communicate through three separate stories. Each story explores different ways people interact, showing the difficulties and advantages of each in various situations. The first story looks at spoken communication and how words can bring people together or drive them apart. The second focuses on nonverbal communication, asking viewers to understand the hidden messages in body language and expressions. The final story examines digital communication and how technology affects our relationships in today’s world. By looking at these different forms of interaction, the film explores what it means to connect with others.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.6
  10. 10Street of CrocodilesMovie · 1986 · 21m · Animation, FantasyA marionette, once inanimate, awakens when its strings are cut, finding itself in a strange, dimly lit room. Now free, it cautiously explores the unfamiliar world it has always known only as confinement, uncovering hidden secrets. This unusual story explores themes of control, identity, and liberation from limitations, told through the eyes of a puppet finding its way beyond its predetermined path. As it encounters odd objects and challenges, the puppet begins to question its own existence, leading to a surprising revelation that alters its view of life, regardless of strings.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.5
  11. 11Three Little PigsMovie · 1933 · 8m · Music, Animation, ComedyThree pigs build houses: one of hay, one of sticks, and one of bricks. The first two pigs laugh at their brother for choosing bricks, thinking it's unnecessary in their safe neighborhood. But their attitude changes when a cunning wolf tries to trick them, first pretending to be a lost sheep, then blowing down their houses. Realizing they were wrong, the two pigs go to their brother's brick house and sing "Who's Afraid of the Big Bad Wolf?" The story highlights the importance of family and listening to good advice, all while keeping you on the edge of your seat.Stream onIMDb 7.5TMDB 6.9
  12. 12FantasmagorieMovie · 1908 · 2m · Animation, ComedyÉmile Cohl's early animated film is a visually imaginative and surreal journey. Influenced by pioneering animators, the movie follows a protagonist who creates a movie theater, leading to bizarre encounters with an elephant and a daring escape from jail. The film showcases innovative animation techniques through seamless transformations and fluid transitions, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that highlights Cohl's artistic vision and contribution to the developing world of animation.Stream onIMDb 6.9TMDB 6.6
  13. 13Luxo Jr.Movie · 1986 · 2m · Animation, ComedyThis charming animated short tells the story of Luxo Jr., a curious and playful desk lamp. Content with a simple ball, his world expands when it bursts, leading him to seek something more. His father, Luxo, expects this interest to fade, but Luxo Jr. discovers an even bigger ball. The film celebrates the boundless energy and curiosity of youth, along with the gentle relationship between generations, in a heartwarming and whimsical way. Its simple yet engaging story is brought to life with beautiful animation and clever storytelling for audiences of all ages.Stream onIMDb 7.2TMDB 7.0
  14. 14The Cat ConcertoMovie · 1947 · 8m · Animation, Comedy, MusicThis short film follows Tom, formally dressed and ready to perform Liszt's "Hungarian Rhapsody" at the piano, as an orchestra tunes up below. But his performance is interrupted by Jerry, a mischievous mouse who hides inside the piano. Jerry’s presence causes unexpected chaos as Tom struggles to play while trying to get rid of him. Jerry, however, responds with his own musical antics, creating a lively duet with Tom. The escalating energy of their musical battle culminates in a thrilling finale, leaving one animal to take the applause. The film playfully blends classical music with the humor of an unlikely partnership between Tom and Jerry.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.6
  15. 15The Fabulous World of Jules VerneMovie · 1958 · 83m · Adventure, Science FictionAs technology rapidly changes the world, a respected professor researching fundamental matter is targeted by a rising dictator who wants to exploit his knowledge. When global tensions escalate, a young reporter discovers a complex conspiracy involving the professor's kidnapping and a mysterious girl found at sea. With little time left, the reporter and the girl must race to expose the captor's dangerous plan: building a devastating super-bomb. Facing betrayal and loyalty, they navigate a perilous path that threatens not only their lives but the future of humanity. This suspenseful drama examines knowledge, power, and ethics, prompting questions about progress and ambition. It’s a gripping story with compelling characters, exploring human nature and keeping audiences captivated.Stream onIMDb 7.5TMDB 7.1
  16. 16Tale of TalesMovie · 1979 · 29m · AnimationThis film follows a young gray wolf whose childhood memories illuminate Russia’s history and cultural heritage. Vivid visuals bring these recollections to life, offering glimpses into the past as the wolf journeys across the Russian landscape. The film explores the beauty of the country and its complex cultural traditions, revealing a deeper understanding of Russian identity and the enduring connections between its people. It's a moving story about memory, nostalgia, and the bond between animals and humanity.Stream onIMDb 7.8TMDB 7.3
  17. 17Fritz the CatMovie · 1972 · 78m · Animation, Comedy, DramaSet in the 1960s, the film follows a college student who rebels against societal norms during a period of major social change and increased personal freedom. Using satire to highlight hypocrisy, it explores the lives of young people who defy expectations. The protagonist's actions mirror the era's turmoil, creating a story that is both funny and thought-provoking. The movie offers an engaging look at the complexities and contradictions of a decade undergoing rapid transformation.Stream onIMDb 6.2TMDB 6.2
  18. 18The HandMovie · 1965 · 18m · Animation, HorrorA talented potter is asked by a giant, unseen hand to create a special statue. He turns down the offer, happy with his quiet life and his beloved plant. But the hand’s requests turn increasingly demanding, using bribes, threats, and coercion. As the potter struggles to meet these demands, he's drawn into a series of unfortunate events, forcing him to reconsider what truly matters – ambition versus connection. The film is a visually rich exploration of this conflict within a fantastical setting.Stream onIMDb 7.9TMDB 7.4
  19. 19TangoMovie · 1985 · 8m · AnimationThe film focuses on a single, continuous shot of a room as thirty-six people of all ages populate it. Their interactions create a compelling, disconnected dance. The film contrasts these individuals and their actions to explore how we often struggle to connect, even when sharing the same space. The characters move in repetitive, seemingly random patterns, forming an absurd, dance-like display that reveals both humor and sadness in human relationships. This tableau vivant invites viewers to consider themes of isolation, the fleeting nature of connection, and our shared desire for meaningful relationships in modern life.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.4
  20. 20Steamboat WillieMovie · 1928 · 8m · Animation, ComedyMickey Mouse captains a steamboat on a river journey with Minnie as his passenger. He aims to create music using the boat's animals, crafting instruments from them to blend into a harmonious melody. The playful adventure highlights Mickey's inventive spirit and love for Minnie, turning a simple boat ride into a special experience for them both.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 7.3
  21. 21Water and PowerMovie · 1989 · 57mThis film explores the relationship between humanity and the natural world in Los Angeles, focusing on the city's increasing desertification caused by excessive water use.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.0