46 Classic Animated Specials from Rankin/Bass
46 titles
- 1
Santa, Baby!Movie · 2001 · 44mNoel, a songwriter battling a creative block, begins taking his frustrations on his family. His daughter Dakota, rewarded with a wish for a good deed, asks for her father to write a hit song. A minor storyline about kindness to animals runs parallel to the main plot.IMDb 4.9TMDB 4.3 - 2
The Wind in the WillowsMovie · 1983 · 96mToad, known for his recklessness, finds himself in trouble and must enlist the aid of his friends to try and save Toad Hall.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.0 - 3
The ConeheadsMovie · 1983 · 24mBased on the popular Saturday Night Live sketch, this animated pilot follows the Coneheads as they arrive on Earth with plans to take over. However, their mission takes an unexpected turn when they begin to embrace domestic life.IMDb 5.5TMDB 4.9 - 4
The Flight of DragonsMovie · 1982 · 96m · Animation, Fantasy, FamilyA conflict is growing between magic and logic, threatening the magical world. The wise wizard Carolinus creates a permanent barrier to protect it, but the evil wizard Ommadon opposes this protection. To stop Ommadon and keep peace between the two worlds, Carolinus sends Peter Dickinson on a special quest. Peter, who understands both magic and science, must overcome challenges and defeat Ommadon to save the balance between enchantment and reason.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.7 - 5
The Last DinosaurMovie · 1977 · 106mA wealthy big game hunter (Boone) and his hunting party are unexpectedly transported to prehistoric times. There, they find themselves hunted by a fearsome dinosaur.IMDb 5.2TMDB 6.3 - 6
The First Christmas: The Story of the First Christmas SnowMovie · 1975 · 24mA young shepherd named Lucas is blinded by lightning and found by nuns at a nearby abbey. Sister Catherine describes snow to him, as he has never seen it before. Lucas is chosen to play an angel in the abbey's Christmas pageant, and a snowfall during the performance seems to work a small miracle.IMDb 6.7TMDB 5.3 - 7
The Little Drummer BoyMovie · 1968 · 25mFollowing a kidnapping and subsequent escape, young drummer Aaron searches for his camel. He discovers the animal at the Nativity scene, alongside the Baby Jesus. Aaron offers the infant Jesus his only possession: a song played on his drum.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.6 - 8
The Mouse on the MayflowerMovie · 1968 · 60mThe historic ship Mayflower is caught in a violent storm. The story unfolds through the eyes of Willum, a church mouse aboard. It begins with the pilgrim preachers' decision to journey to America and their embarkation on the Mayflower. A severe storm threatens to sink the vessel. Willum, a pilgrim mouse, devises a plan to save the ship. After a safe landing, the pilgrims draft the Mayflower Compact and begin building their church and colony. However, it’s autumn, and they face limited food supplies for the winter. They learn to cultivate crops in the spring and hold a large harvest feast as autumn approaches – their first Thanksgiving.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.0 - 9
The Emperor's New ClothesMovie · 1972 · 52mTwo swindlers trick a king into believing they've created a suit of invisible cloth, visible only to those lacking intelligence. To avoid appearing foolish, the court pretends to admire the nonexistent garment, even though the king is completely unclothed.IMDb 6.7TMDB 5.0 - 10
One Hour in WonderlandMovie · 1950 · 59mFirst broadcast on Christmas Day, 1950, this was Disney's inaugural television special. It showcases Edgar Bergen and his characters, Charlie McCarthy and Mortimer Snerd, at a Christmas party hosted by Walt Disney. The program features movie clips, animated shorts, and the debut performance of the Fire House Five Plus Two jazz band.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.8 - 11
The Easter Bunny Is Comin' to TownMovie · 1977 · 50mTo avoid a flood of letters, the Mailman answers questions about Sunny, a baby rabbit adopted by Kidville, a town populated entirely by children. Sunny delivers Easter eggs to a neighboring town, where he discovers no children and a rightful young king being controlled by his aunt. The king enjoys Sunny’s dyed eggs and jelly beans. So, Kidville, with the help of an old train engine, plots a way to distribute them.IMDb 7.0TMDB 5.5 - 12
The Last UnicornMovie · 1982 · 92m · Fantasy, Animation, FamilyA spirited young unicorn sets out on a quest for truth and belonging after receiving a mysterious message from a butterfly. Believing she is the last of her kind, she seeks answers about what happened to the other mythical creatures, who appear to have been captured by the fearsome Red Bull. She joins forces with Schmendrick, a clumsy magician with unreliable magic, and Molly Grue, a woman whose lifelong dream is to see a unicorn. Together, they travel far from home, facing both wonder and peril, and eventually reach the castle of King Haggard. The unlikely trio must learn to trust each other as they uncover the secrets of the unicorn's past and her connection to the Red Bull.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2 - 13
The Little Drummer Boy: Book IIMovie · 1976 · 24mAaron, a young drummer, must defend a bellmaker's valuable silver bells from being taken by Roman soldiers.IMDb 6.5TMDB 5.9 - 14
Nestor, the Long-Eared Christmas DonkeyMovie · 1977 · 25m · Animation, FamilyNestor the donkey has unusually long ears, far longer than any other donkey in his herd. One cold night, he's left out in the desert. He journeys across the vast landscape, discovering new places and facing difficulties. He learns about his special abilities and finds friendship and acceptance. This beautiful and moving film is an uplifting story about being different and overcoming challenges.IMDb 6.8TMDB 5.9 - 15
Jack FrostMovie · 1979 · 48m · Family, Animation, Fantasy"Pardon-me Pete: The Tale of Jack Frost" follows Jack Frost's journey as he transforms from a mythical being into a human, seeking love and acceptance. Hoping to win the heart of a lovely woman, Jack asks Father Winter for help. Winter agrees, but with a condition: Jack must find a house, gold, a horse, and a wife before spring arrives. As Jack pursues these goals, he faces unforeseen obstacles and learns important lessons about life. With time running out, Jack's story of love, ambition, and finding himself unfolds, blending humor and warmth.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.5 - 16
Ballad of Smokey the BearMovie · 1966 · 60m"Ballad of Smokey the Bear" recounts the origin of Smokey's name. Smokey and his woodland companions discover an unfamiliar creature responsible for starting fires. Smokey discovers his purpose in confronting this unusual animal.IMDb 6.6TMDB 3.5 - 17
Frosty's Winter WonderlandMovie · 1976 · 25m · Animation, Family, TV MovieA magical snowman named Frosty returns to his town after years at the North Pole, prompted by news of the first snowfall. The film is a story about loyalty, friendship, and the Christmas spirit, brought to life with stunning animation.
Frosty's journey home is filled with challenges as he travels through winter landscapes, encountering various animals and people along the way. He demonstrates kindness and selflessness, highlighting the importance of community and cherishing relationships. Despite obstacles, Frosty’s determination shows that promises are meant to be kept.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.6 - 18
The Bushido BladeMovie · 1981 · 104mA ceremonial samurai sword, intended as a gift from the Emperor of Japan to the American ambassador, is stolen. The search for the blade brings together American sailors and Japanese samurai.IMDb 5.3TMDB 5.4 - 19
'Twas the Night Before ChristmasMovie · 1974 · 25m · Animation, FamilyA close-knit town is cut off from Santa's deliveries after a prank letter reaches the North Pole. With Christmas Eve near and presents untouched, the townspeople band together to persuade Santa to change his mind and bring back the holiday spirit. Their journey is filled with laughter, warmth, and moments of friendship, teaching them about forgiveness and the true meaning of Christmas, ultimately uniting the community.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.7 - 20
Return to OzMovie · 1964 · 51mThis story keeps Dorothy in Oz with her magical shoes. A tornado carries her back to the magical land. The Scarecrow, Tin Woodman, and Lion have lost the gifts they received from the Wizard of Oz MGM film, destroyed by the Wicked Witch's return. The four journey to the Wizard for assistance, but he is as powerless as ever.IMDb 5.3TMDB 2.0 - 21
Rudolph and Frosty's Christmas in JulyMovie · 1979 · 97m · Animation, Fantasy, FamilyA sinister force named Winterbolt aims to turn the peaceful North Pole into his own dark domain. Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and a group of quirky friends team up to stop him. The heroes face danger and discover themselves on an exciting adventure, learning the importance of friendship to overcome evil. Their journey reveals the true meaning of Christmas as they confront Winterbolt and find their own strengths.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.4 - 22
The King and IMovie · 1999 · 87m · Animation, Family, MusicThis period drama tells the story of Anna Loenowens, a Welsh woman who becomes a governess and English tutor to King Mongkut of Siam's many wives and children. As Anna adjusts to the royal court and its traditions, she frequently clashes with the King.
She works to introduce Western culture to the palace, teaching the young royals English, customs, and etiquette. Amidst growing cultural tensions, Anna prepares her students for a key event with European diplomats, hoping to change their view of the King.
The film explores cultural exchange, personal development, and the impact of education, as Anna's commitment to her students ultimately influences the future of Siam. Through beautiful visuals and compelling storytelling, the film offers a glimpse into the complex relationship between two very different worlds.IMDb 4.4TMDB 5.4 - 23
The Ivory ApeMovie · 1980 · 104m · Action, Adventure, DramaA remarkable adventure begins when a light-colored ape escapes from a freighter headed to Bermuda. On the island, two anthropologists see a chance to protect this unusual animal from being exploited. But local authorities, fearing the unknown and bound by custom, hire a notorious hunter to find and kill the ape before it causes trouble. The fate of the ape becomes a central point of conflict between conservation and tradition.IMDb 4.9TMDB 3.5 - 24
Rudolph the Red-Nosed ReindeerMovie · 1964 · 52m · Animation, Family, TV MovieSam the snowman tells the story of Rudolf, a young reindeer with a distinctive red nose who feels like an outsider. He joins Hermey, an elf who wants to be a dentist, and Yukon Cornelius, a prospector looking for a special mineral, on an adventure. They meet the Abominable Snowman and discover an island of toys Santa didn't choose.
Heartbroken about not fitting in, Rudolf promises to help these misfit toys. On Christmas Eve, when fog prevents Santa's sleigh from flying, Rudolf’s red nose provides an unexpected solution for both the sleigh and the toys.
This beloved story celebrates friendship and the spirit of Christmas, captivating audiences with its memorable characters and their journey to acceptance.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.4 - 25
The Mad, Mad, Mad ComediansMovie · 1970 · 60m*The Mad, Mad, Mad Comedians* is a 1970 American animated television special produced by Rankin/Bass Productions. Following *Frosty the Snowman* (1969), it was their second animated project outsourced to Osamu Tezuka's Mushi Production in Tokyo, Japan. The show aired on ABC on April 7, 1970, before the Academy Awards. It's a tribute to classic vaudeville, featuring animated versions of well-known comedians' routines.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.0 - 26
The Wacky World of Mother GooseMovie · 1967 · 81mMother Goose and her classic fairytale companions team up to thwart a band of cunning spies in this animated adventure for children.IMDb 5.0TMDB 2.3 - 27
The Sins of Dorian GrayMovie · 1983 · 97mThis adaptation of Oscar Wilde's story follows Dorian Gray, an actress determined to achieve international fame. She makes a pact to trade her soul for the perfection of her image on film. As she sleeps and skillfully manipulates her way to stardom, she knows that her film portrayal, not herself, will bear the marks of time and the consequences of her immoral actions.IMDb 5.6TMDB 5.7 - 28
Here Comes Peter CottontailMovie · 1971 · 51mPeter Cottontail aspires to be the top Easter Bunny, a goal supported by everyone in April Valley… except for his rival, Evil Irontail. To earn the coveted position, Peter must deliver more Easter eggs than Irontail, ensuring Easter for all the children.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.0 - 29
Cricket on the HearthMovie · 1967 · 49mThis charming animated musical adapts Charles Dickens' beloved story, *A Cricket on the Hearth*. It follows a poor toymaker and his daughter, who befriend a helpful Cricket named Crocket on Christmas morning. When misfortune befalls the family, Crocket steps in to bring back peace and happiness.IMDb 5.4TMDB 5.1 - 30
The Return of the KingMovie · 1980 · 98m · Animation, Fantasy, AdventureTwo unlikely heroes, Frodo and Sam, begin a difficult journey to destroy the One Ring in Mount Doom. They face danger as they are hunted by Sauron, who wants the Ring's power for evil. Their friends fight Sauron's armies to protect Middle Earth from darkness. This story shows courage, friendship, and sacrifice as Frodo and Sam try to overcome impossible odds and decide the fate of their world.IMDb 5.7TMDB 6.4 - 31
The HobbitMovie · 1977 · 77m · Family, Fantasy, AnimationThis adventure follows Bilbo Baggins, an ordinary hobbit who becomes involved in a grand quest. Gandalf the Wizard visits him one evening, bringing with him a company of dwarves who ask for his help. They explain that their kingdom has been seized by the dragon Smaug and beg Bilbo to assist in getting it back.
Gandalf has secretly told the dwarves that Bilbo is a skilled burglar – a claim that isn't true. As they journey together, Bilbo must overcome his lack of experience and demonstrate his worth to the group. The story explores courage, friendship, and finding oneself, with surprising events happening along the way. Featuring beautiful visuals, compelling characters, and an interesting story, this tale will appeal to viewers of all ages.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.5 - 32
MarcoMovie · 1973 · 109mThis film blends live-action and animation to tell the epic story of Marco Polo's travels to the exotic East. A significant portion of the narrative focuses on Polo's relationship with the influential Kublai Khan.IMDb 4.7 - 33
The Year Without a Santa ClausMovie · 1974 · 51m · Animation, Family, TV MovieThis heartwarming story follows St. Nicholas as he feels disconnected from the children he loves and questions his role as Santa Claus. He decides to take a break from his duties, but Mrs. Claus and two elves, Jingle and Jangle, are determined to keep the Christmas spirit alive.
They embark on an adventure to find where the joy of the holidays has disappeared. Guided by a magical snowfall, they travel the world, rekindling children's love for Christmas. As cheer spreads, it becomes clear that Santa is more than just a man; he represents hope and togetherness during the festive season.
Throughout their journey, the group reminds Santa of his importance and the impact he has on children. The story ends with Santa returning to his purpose, ready to continue spreading love and happiness at Christmas.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.2 - 34
Santa Claus Is Comin' to TownMovie · 1970 · 51m · Animation, Family, FantasyS.D. Kluger, a postman fascinated by Santa Claus, tells the story of Kris, a baby raised by elf toymakers, the Kringles. Kris grows up wanting to bring joy by delivering toys to the children of Sombertown. But the town's mayor makes their mission difficult, and the Winter Warlock stands in their way. The film explores themes of love, determination, and kindness in a story designed to uplift viewers.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.1 - 35
The Stingiest Man in TownMovie · 1978 · 50mFrom the creators of classic Christmas specials like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer comes this animated take on A Christmas Carol. This 49-minute musical features Walter Matthau as the miserly Scrooge and Tom Bosley as B. Humbug, Esq., a narrator in the style of Jiminy Cricket. The film is animated by Topcraft, the Japanese studio behind other Rankin/Bass films including The Hobbit and The Last Unicorn.IMDb 6.4TMDB 5.3 - 36
Willy McBean & His Magic MachineMovie · 1965 · 94mYoung Willy McBean teams up with a monkey from Mexico named Pablo for a journey through time. Their mission: to prevent the villainous Professor von Rotten from altering the course of history.IMDb 6.0TMDB 4.3 - 37
The Bermuda DepthsMovie · 1978 · 97mA team of scientists exploring the ocean's depths faces a double threat: a captivating young woman who appears to have risen from the dead, and a primeval sea monster lurking within the treacherous Bermuda Triangle.IMDb 5.6TMDB 5.3 - 38
The DaydreamerMovie · 1966 · 101mTo ease his studies, a young Hans Christian Andersen seeks enlightenment in a mythical Garden of Paradise. There, each time he dozes off, he dreams vivid stories of the characters he will later create: The Little Mermaid, Thumbelina, and The Emperor's New Clothes, among others.IMDb 6.1TMDB 4.6 - 39
The First Easter RabbitMovie · 1976 · 25mA cherished stuffed rabbit is chosen by a fairy to become the very first Easter Rabbit.IMDb 6.6TMDB 5.6 - 40
Frosty the SnowmanMovie · 1969 · 25m · Family, Animation, TV MovieAfter a long absence, Dr. Gulliver returns home and excitedly shares his incredible experiences from unexplored lands with his doubtful family. He describes giant creatures and amazing landscapes in detail, leading them to wonder if his stories are the product of isolation or evidence of a truly wondrous world. The story explores how we perceive reality and what our limitations are, unfolding with a sense of awe that makes us consider the vastness of what we don't know and the possibilities within ourselves.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.9 - 41
King Kong EscapesMovie · 1967 · 104mThis adaptation of the Rankin/Bass cartoon "The King Kong Show" follows the story where Dr. Who tasks King Kong with mining for Element X after a robot, Mechani-Kong, fails. The task escalates into a massive battle between the two Kongs on top of Tokyo Tower.IMDb 5.5TMDB 6.2 - 42
Rudolph's Shiny New YearMovie · 1977 · 50m · Animation, Fantasy, FamilyOn New Year's Eve, a brave reindeer named Rudolph undertakes a critical mission: to find Happy, a missing baby symbolizing the arrival of the new year. As midnight nears, Rudolph journeys through snowy lands, facing obstacles in his search for the infant. He meets various characters who help him solve the mystery of Happy's disappearance. The story is full of humor, friendship, and Christmas spirit, appealing to audiences of all ages. Racing against time to find Happy before the clock strikes twelve, Rudolph discovers a heartwarming message about family and tradition during this festive time.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.4 - 43
The Life and Adventures of Santa ClausMovie · 1985 · 50mThe Great Ak convenes a council of immortals to petition for Santa Claus's immortality, recounting his origins as justification. The Ak discovered an abandoned infant and entrusted him to a lioness and a fairy for upbringing, naming him Claus. Witnessing the world's suffering, Claus chose to dedicate himself to alleviating it by crafting toys for orphans. However, King Awgwa, the valley's ruler, opposed this happiness, sparking a major conflict among the immortals.IMDb 7.2TMDB 5.5 - 44
The Leprechauns' Christmas GoldMovie · 1981 · 24mWhile searching for a Christmas tree, cabin boy Dinty Doyle arrives on a strange, unknown Irish island. He inadvertently frees a grumpy banshee from her prison in a pine tree. Leprechaun Blarney Kilakilarney warns that the banshee will try to steal his clan's pot of Christmas gold to survive. With help from Lord Patrick, the king of the fairies, Dinty and Blarney devise a plan to stop the gold-hungry banshee before Christmas morning.IMDb 6.2TMDB 5.4 - 45
Pinocchio's ChristmasMovie · 1980 · 49m · Family, Animation, FantasyDuring the Christmas season, Geppetto prepares for the holidays while Pinocchio embarks on an adventure. Joining a puppet show to earn money for a gift, Pinocchio falls in love with Julietta, a fellow puppet.
Pinocchio's new romance changes his life, leaving Geppetto worried about his son and their promises. This story explores growing up, responsibility, and family, combining puppetry, romance, and heartfelt emotion.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.6 - 46
Mad Monster Party?Movie · 1967 · 95m · Animation, Comedy, FamilyA world-weary Dr. Frankenstein gathers Dracula, the Werewolf, the Creature from the Black Lagoon, and Mr. Hyde to choose his successor in the art of creating monsters. But the position isn't the only prize. Frankenstein has discovered a dangerous secret that could destroy everything, and he must prevent it from falling into the wrong hands. As this unusual convention unfolds, the competition for the title becomes entangled with a desperate fight to save the world from disaster.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.6
