The year 2019 was a banner year for animation, showcasing a blend of sequels to beloved classics, bold new stories, and technological innovations that pushed the boundaries of what animated films could achieve. From heartwarming tales of friendship to epic adventures, the animated films of 2019 left a lasting impact on audiences worldwide. Here’s a detailed look at the top 5 best animation movies of 2019.
1. Toy Story 4
- Studio: Pixar Animation Studios
- Director: Josh Cooley
- Synopsis: “Toy Story 4” continues the story of Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and the rest of the toys as they embark on a road trip with their new owner, Bonnie. During the trip, Woody encounters an old friend, Bo Peep, who opens his eyes to a new world where toys can live free from the constraints of being owned. Meanwhile, Woody also takes it upon himself to protect Forky, a new toy Bonnie made from a spork, who struggles to understand his purpose.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: “Toy Story 4” is a touching and emotionally resonant conclusion to the beloved franchise that started in 1995. The film explores themes of identity, purpose, and letting go, while also delivering the humor, heart, and high-quality animation that Pixar is known for. It’s a fitting end to Woody’s journey, offering both closure and a fresh perspective on what it means to be a toy.
2. Frozen II
- Studio: Walt Disney Animation Studios
- Directors: Chris Buck, Jennifer Lee
- Synopsis: “Frozen II” follows Elsa, Anna, Kristoff, Olaf, and Sven as they venture beyond Arendelle to uncover the origins of Elsa’s magical powers and the truth about their family’s past. Their journey leads them to an enchanted forest and a mysterious river, where they must confront hidden secrets and make life-changing decisions.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: “Frozen II” builds on the success of the original film, offering a deeper and more mature story that explores themes of self-discovery, environmentalism, and the bonds of family. The film’s breathtaking animation, coupled with its memorable songs like “Into the Unknown,” makes it a visual and auditory delight. It’s a sequel that expands the world of “Frozen” while delivering the emotional depth and character development that fans craved.
3. How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World
- Studio: DreamWorks Animation
- Director: Dean DeBlois
- Synopsis: In “How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World,” Hiccup and Toothless must face their biggest challenge yet as they search for a hidden dragon utopia known as the “Hidden World” to protect their species from a ruthless dragon hunter named Grimmel. As Hiccup grows into his role as the leader of Berk, he must also come to terms with the possibility of letting Toothless go to ensure his friend’s safety and happiness.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: This final installment in the “How to Train Your Dragon” trilogy delivers a satisfying and emotional conclusion to the epic story of Hiccup and Toothless. The film is a visual masterpiece, with stunning animation and breathtaking landscapes that bring the dragon world to life. Its themes of friendship, leadership, and sacrifice resonate deeply, making it one of the most poignant animated films of the year.
4. Klaus
- Studio: Netflix Animation
- Director: Sergio Pablos
- Synopsis: “Klaus” is a reimagined origin story of Santa Claus, following the story of Jesper, a spoiled and lazy postal academy student who is sent to a remote, frozen town as punishment. There, he meets a mysterious toymaker named Klaus, and together they begin a tradition of gift-giving that transforms the town and inspires the legend of Santa Claus.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: “Klaus” is a visually stunning film that combines traditional hand-drawn animation with cutting-edge lighting and texturing techniques to create a unique and beautiful aesthetic. The film’s heartwarming story, memorable characters, and inventive take on the Santa Claus legend make it a standout in the realm of holiday films. It’s a story about kindness, redemption, and the power of giving, making it a perfect watch for the holiday season and beyond.
5. I Lost My Body (J’ai perdu mon corps)
- Studio: Xilam Animation
- Director: Jérémy Clapin
- Synopsis: “I Lost My Body” is a French animated film that tells the story of a severed hand that escapes from a laboratory in Paris and embarks on a journey to reunite with its body. As the hand navigates the city, the film interweaves flashbacks of the young man to whom the hand belongs, exploring his life, love, and loss.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: “I Lost My Body” is a deeply moving and visually innovative film that pushes the boundaries of animated storytelling. The film’s unique narrative structure, blending surrealism with a poignant exploration of human emotions, makes it a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Its themes of loss, memory, and the search for meaning resonate on a profound level, making it one of the most thought-provoking animated films of 2019.
Conclusion
2019 was a remarkable year for animated films, offering a wide range of stories that captivated audiences with their creativity, emotional depth, and stunning visuals. From the heartwarming conclusion of “Toy Story 4” to the innovative storytelling of “I Lost My Body,” these films demonstrated the power of animation to tell stories that resonate with viewers of all ages. Whether you’re looking for epic adventures, heartfelt tales, or groundbreaking animation techniques, the best animated movies of 2019 have something to offer everyone.
