Animated films have long captivated both children and adults. While Disney dominates the genre, other studios such as Warner Animation Group, DreamWorks, and Illumination are also delivering standout releases.
From mischievous Minions to singing Trolls, a select few animated movies excel beyond the mainstream. With memorable characters and clever storylines, these films illustrate the art’s enduring appeal. Explore a curated list of non‑Disney animated movies that are shaping up to become modern classics.
15 ‘Tom & Jerry: The Movie’ (2021)
The classic cat‑and‑mouse rivalry returns in a hybrid live‑action and animated adventure. Set in New York’s Royal Gate Hotel, Tom the cat is hired to evict Jerry the mouse before a wedding. Chloë Grace Moretz and Michael Peña lead an all‑star cast in this fast‑paced, action‑filled sequel that blends nostalgia with contemporary humor.
14 ‘The Angry Birds Movie 2’ (2019)
In this sequel to the 2016 hit, Red (Jason Sudeikis) leads an unlikely alliance of birds and pigs to confront the icy threat posed by the tyrannical Zeta. With a stellar ensemble—including Josh Gad, Leslie Jones, and Bill Hader—the film blends clever humor with vibrant computer‑generated imagery, solidifying its status as a potential classic.
13 ‘The Bad Guys’ (2022)
Based on a children’s graphic novel, this heist‑comedy follows a pack of thieving animals who feign reformation to avoid imprisonment. Directed by Pierre Perifel, the film features Sam Rockwell as Mr. Wolf and Craig Robinson as Mr. Shark. Its heartfelt message about redemption, combined with sharp wit, makes it a standout animated release.
12 ‘Minions: The Rise of Gru’ (2022)
Image via Universal
Set in the 1970s, the story traces the early days of Gru, an eleven‑year‑old super‑villain‑in‑training, as he seeks to join the notorious Vicious Six. Steve Carell reprises his role, alongside Alan Arkin and Michelle Yeoh, delivering another laugh‑filled installment in Illumination’s beloved franchise.
11 ‘Trolls World Tour’ (2020)
Poppy (Anna Kendrick) and Branch (Justin Timberlake) discover six troll realms, each linked to a distinct music genre, and race to prevent Queen Barb (Rachel Bloom) from silencing all melodies. Kenan Thompson voices the witty Tiny Diamond. The sequel delivers vibrant animation, catchy songs, and a colorful celebration of musical diversity.
10 ‘Croods: A New Age’ (2020)
The prehistoric Crood family encounters a walled paradise and clashes with the more technologically advanced Bettermans. The original impressive cast reunites (Nicolas Cage, Emma Stone, Ryan Reynolds) in this sequel directed by Joel Crawford, offering slapstick humor and heartwarming themes of family and adaptation.
9 ‘Wolfwalkers’ (2020)
Cartoon Saloon’s Irish folklore trilogy culminates in this breathtaking tale of Robyn Goodfellowe (Honor Kneafsey), daughter of a wolf hunter (Sean Bean), who discovers she can transform into a wolf. Co‑directed by Tom Moore and Ross Stewart, the film showcases stunning forests, vivid colors, and a magical exploration of identity and harmony with nature.
8 ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ (2025)
Image via Netflix
Netflix’s original animated film follows three K‑pop idols who battle soul‑stealing demons in secret. Directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, the movie blends anime‑inspired humor with themes of self‑acceptance and confronting the past, featuring catchy songs that prompted a sing‑along release.
7 ‘The Wild Robot’ (2024)
Based on Peter Brown’s novel, this DreamWorks feature centers on Roz, a robot voiced by Lupita Nyong’o, who washes ashore on an island of forest animals and forms an unlikely bond after hatching a goose egg. Co‑directed by Chris Sanders (Lilo & Stitch, How to Train Your Dragon), the film showcases lush 3D landscapes across the seasons, delivering a story of cooperation and found family.
6 ‘Flow’ (2024)
Image via Sideshow/Janus Films
Gints Zilbalodis’s wordless masterpiece depicts a world where humans have vanished and a flood forces a group of animals onto a boat. With no dialogue, the film relies on expressive animation to convey each creature’s personality and camaraderie. Its minimalist approach and visual storytelling earn it a place among modern animated classics.
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