The year 2021 continued to demonstrate the power and versatility of animated films, with studios across the globe producing works that pushed the boundaries of storytelling, artistry, and technology. From heartwarming tales to action-packed adventures, the best animated movies of 2021 captured the imaginations of audiences young and old. Here’s a detailed look at the top 5 best animation movies of 2021.
1. Encanto
- Studio: Walt Disney Animation Studios
- Directors: Byron Howard, Jared Bush, Charise Castro Smith
- Synopsis: “Encanto” tells the story of the Madrigal family, who live in a magical house in the mountains of Colombia. Each member of the family is blessed with a unique magical gift—except for Mirabel, who feels out of place in her extraordinary family. When the magic of the Encanto begins to fade, Mirabel takes it upon herself to discover the cause and save her family’s magic.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: “Encanto” is a visually stunning film that beautifully captures the vibrant culture and landscapes of Colombia. The film’s rich, colorful animation, combined with its catchy musical numbers by Lin-Manuel Miranda, make it a feast for the senses. More than just a visual spectacle, “Encanto” delves deep into themes of family, identity, and acceptance, offering a poignant and relatable story that resonates with audiences of all ages.
2. Luca
- Studio: Pixar Animation Studios
- Directors: Enrico Casarosa
- Synopsis: Set in a seaside town on the Italian Riviera, “Luca” follows the story of a young sea monster named Luca who dreams of exploring the human world. Together with his newfound friend Alberto, Luca experiences an unforgettable summer filled with gelato, pasta, and endless scooter rides. However, the boys must keep their true identities hidden from the townspeople, who fear and hunt sea monsters.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: “Luca” is a charming coming-of-age story that celebrates friendship, curiosity, and the joys of childhood. The film’s stunning animation captures the idyllic beauty of the Italian coastline, making it a visual treat. With its heartfelt narrative, endearing characters, and themes of acceptance and self-discovery, “Luca” is a feel-good movie that resonates with viewers of all ages.
3. The Mitchells vs. The Machines
- Studio: Sony Pictures Animation
- Directors: Michael Rianda, Jeff Rowe
- Synopsis: “The Mitchells vs. The Machines” centers on Katie Mitchell, an aspiring filmmaker who embarks on a cross-country road trip with her quirky, dysfunctional family as she heads to college. However, their trip is abruptly interrupted by a global robot uprising, and it’s up to the Mitchells to save the world from the AI apocalypse.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: This film is a hilarious and visually inventive adventure that blends family comedy with sci-fi action. The animation is bold and vibrant, utilizing a unique mix of traditional and digital techniques to create a distinctive style. Beyond the laughs and action, “The Mitchells vs. The Machines” explores the complexities of family relationships, making it both a fun and emotionally resonant watch.
4. Raya and the Last Dragon
- Studio: Walt Disney Animation Studios
- Directors: Don Hall, Carlos López Estrada
- Synopsis: “Raya and the Last Dragon” is set in the fantasy world of Kumandra, where humans and dragons once lived in harmony. When an ancient evil known as the Druun threatens the land, the dragons sacrifice themselves to save humanity. 500 years later, the Druun return, and it’s up to a young warrior named Raya to track down the last dragon, Sisu, and unite the divided kingdoms to defeat the evil once and for all.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: “Raya and the Last Dragon” is a visually breathtaking film that immerses viewers in a rich, mythical world inspired by Southeast Asian cultures. The film’s action-packed story, combined with its themes of trust, unity, and redemption, makes it a compelling watch. With strong voice performances, particularly from Kelly Marie Tran as Raya and Awkwafina as Sisu, the film delivers both excitement and emotional depth.
5. Flee
- Studio: Final Cut for Real, Sun Creature Studio, Vivement Lundi!
- Director: Jonas Poher Rasmussen
- Synopsis: “Flee” is an animated documentary that tells the true story of Amin Nawabi, a man on the verge of marriage who decides to share his hidden past for the first time. Through animation, Amin recounts his journey as a child refugee from Afghanistan, fleeing to Denmark to escape the Mujahideen. The film explores themes of identity, trauma, and the refugee experience in a deeply personal and powerful way.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: “Flee” stands out not only for its unique blend of animation and documentary filmmaking but also for its poignant and timely narrative. The film’s use of animation allows for a deeply immersive and emotionally resonant retelling of Amin’s harrowing journey, making it a powerful and unforgettable experience. “Flee” is a testament to the versatility of animation as a medium for storytelling, tackling complex and sensitive issues with grace and humanity.
Conclusion
The year 2021 was a remarkable one for animation, offering a diverse array of films that captivated audiences with their creativity, emotion, and visual splendor. From the colorful and heartwarming world of “Encanto” to the groundbreaking and deeply personal storytelling of “Flee,” these films demonstrated the endless possibilities of animated cinema. Whether you’re in the mood for an epic fantasy adventure, a hilarious family road trip, or a thought-provoking documentary, the best animated movies of 2021 have something to offer everyone.
