My All-Time Top 5 Animated Children’s Movies (Part I)
Wednesday, May 25th, 1977 is a day that will forever be etched in my memory. For those of you unaware of the significance of this day, it was when the world was introduced to Star Wars: A New Hope! I remember waiting in line and entertaining theater goers while we waited to enter the movie theater, unaware that this one movie would set me on a path in my love for movies! A great film not only entertains but also inspires, challenges, and imparts valuable lessons through iconic characters and captivating storytelling.
This is certainly true for the world of animated children’s movies as the truly memorable movies are able to accomplish all the above. Animated children's movies hold a special place in my heart, as they possess the power to entertain, inspire, and educate young minds. Reflecting on this, I've compiled a list of my top five all-time favorite animated children's movies.
Toy Story (1995)
This story is about the power of friendship and believing in oneself. Join Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and a dynamic cast of toys as they navigate the evolving world of their growing kids. Ever wondered what toys do in their downtime? Watch this movie to find out. "To infinity and beyond"!
A Bug’s Life (1998)
This movie had me belly laughing throughout! We join a colony of ants facing bullies - a gang of grasshoppers - who demand food. Flik meets a circus of insects to save the day, highlighting the power of teamwork. Such a fun watch! Side note: Heimlich the Caterpillar steals the show!
Up (2009)
Of all the animated films I have seen, this was the most moving. In one of the most brilliant and heartbreaking opening scenes, we learn about 78-year-old Carl, the love of his life, and how he developed his love of adventure. Carl ties thousands of balloons to his house and sets off on the adventure of his childhood dreams. Along the way, we meet Russell, an overzealous 8-year-old Wilderness Explorer; Doug, a dog with a special collar that helps him talk; and Kevin, a giant flightless bird. Throughout this journey, Carl learns that the real adventure lies in the life you live every day and the people you get to share it with.
Monsters Inc. (2001)
Like the previous stories, this one is unique and totally original. Sulley & Mike Wazowski are the top scare team at Monsters Inc., the largest scare factory in the world of Monstropolis. Everything seems to be going smoothly until their scary world is turned upside down by the introduction of Boo, the most adorable tiny human that goes where no human has gone before.This story is about confronting and overcoming fears and that laughter is ten times more powerful than a scream.
WALL-E (2008)
I LOVE this movie. The last robot left on Earth, WALL-E discovers a new purpose rather than what he was built for as a Waste Allocation Load Lifter - Earth class. Instead of just surviving each day, WALL-E chooses to live and steps out of his comfort zone in pursuit of EVE, the Extra-Terrestial Vegetation Evaluator. In his quest, he finds new life (figuratively & literally) and with the help of EVE, they work together to save Earth. This was particularly enjoyable because the vast majority of the film had no spoken dialogue, relying instead on the wonderfully animated body language of the robots to tell the very human story.
I hope you enjoyed this little look at some of my favorite animated children’s movies. I really enjoyed sharing my them with you.
Like most successful movies, I will be adding a sequel at some point in the coming months and sharing another round of five animated children’s movies. But, if you have not yet to seen any of these movies, I highly recommend that you click on the links and start your viewing journey today. You will not regret it.