Animated cinema is a cinematic art that uses animation technology to create animated movies with hand-drawn or computer-generated characters, objects, and settings. This art form combines illustration, photography, digital graphics and technology of animation to create films that tell stories and create fantastic and imaginary worlds. Among animated movies there are some masterpieces that are undoubtedly among the must see movie.
Origins of Animated Movies
The creation of animated cinema was a gradual process involving many people and inventions throughout history. However, although there have been many pioneers of animation, it can be said that animated cinema as we know it today has been greatly influenced by the works of Émile Cohl and Winsor McCay.
Emile Cohl, a French director of the early cinema, was one of the first to create animated movies using hand drawings. In 1908, he made “Fantasmagorie”, considered the first cartoon in the world. The film features images of hand-drawn objects and characters that move and transform in weird and fantastic ways.
Winsor McCay, an American cartoonist, has contributed significantly to the growth of animated cinema in the United States. In 1911, he created “Little Nemo,” an animated movie that used the technique of “rotoscopy,” which is the drawing of images on filmed images of real-life actors. McCay then created other groundbreaking animated movies, such as 1914’s “Gertie the Dinosaur,” which was the first film to use the animated character as the star of a live-action show.
Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, animated cinema continued to grow and evolve thanks to the work of many animators and directors, including Walt Disney, who created the character of Mickey Mouse and made the first film d “Steamboat Willie” color animation in 1928. Since then, animated movie has grown into a multibillion-dollar industry producing hit movies and animated series around the world.
Animated cinema became popular in the 1930s with the success of Walt Disney films such as ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’ and ‘Pinocchio’. Over the years, animated cinema has continued to evolve and adopt new techniques, becoming an ever more sophisticated and versatile art form.
Today, animated cinema is very popular and produces films for audiences of all ages. Animated movies can be fun and upbeat, like “Toy Story” and “The Lion King,” or more serious and serious, like “Persepolis” and “Waltz with Bashir.” Some animated movies are intended for an adult audience, such as ‘Akira’ and ‘Waking Life’, while others are created specifically for children, such as ‘Finding Nemo’ and ‘The Incredibles’.
Furthermore, animated cinema is not limited only to feature films. There are also animated series for television, short films, commercials, music videos and more.
Traditional Animated Movies
Animated cinema can be divided into several categories based on the animation technique used. Traditional animation, also known as classic animation or cell animation, is an animation technique that involves creating drawings on paper that are then animated, frame by frame. These drawings are then transferred to motion picture film, resulting in smooth and immersive animation.
The traditional animation technique was first used in the film industry in the early 20th century. During those years, Walt Disney was one of the pioneers of traditional animation and his company, the Walt Disney Company, became famous for its classic animated feature films such as ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’ and ‘Cinderella’.
The traditional animation technique requires great skill and patience. To create smooth animation, animators must draw each individual frame of the animation by hand, using pencils, pens, or brushes on drawing paper. Next, the drawings are transferred to film and stitched together to create a moving animation.
To create the illusion of movement, animators use a technique called the “animation principle.” This principle involves the use of specific drawing techniques, such as deformation, anticipation and superimposition, to create a smooth and realistic animation.
Despite the advent of digital technologies, traditional animation continues to be used today, particularly in artistic animation and independent productions. Traditional animation remains an art form prized for its beauty and its ability to convey emotion through movement and color.
Stop-Motion Animated Movies
Stop-motion animation film technique, also known as frame-by-frame animation, is a traditional animation technique that has been used since the dawn of cinema. It consists of creating a sequence of images photographed frame by frame, where each image is slightly modified to create the illusion of movement.
In the case of stop-motion animation technique, objects are moved and photographed frame by frame to create the animation. For example, to create an animated movie using this technique, animators may use puppets, objects, models, or puppets that are moved and photographed at regular intervals.
The process of making a stop-motion animated movie takes a lot of time, patience, and precision. Animators must create each character and object using materials such as modeling clay, cloth, rubber, and other materials. Next, the animators have to move each character and object to the desired position and then photograph each individual frame.
Once all the frames have been photographed, they are then edited in sequence to create the story of the film. Sometimes animators may also add special effects or sound to create a more immersive viewing experience.
The end result is an animated movie with a very particular look, where every single frame is a stop-motion image that moves with a unique effect. This technique has been used to create many successful animated movies, including Henry Selick’s ‘Coraline’, Nick Park’s ‘Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit’ and Wes Anderson’s ‘Isle of Dogs’.
Computer Animated Movies
Computer-animated movies, also known as computer-generated imagery (CGI) animated movies, are cinematic works created entirely on the computer using computer animation techniques. These films combine computer graphics, animation and rendering to create moving images that look real.
The first fully computer-generated animated movie was Pixar’s “Toy Story” in 1995, which marked a historic turning point in the world of animation. Since then, computer animation technology and techniques have been used to create numerous other successful animated movies, such as ‘Shrek’, ‘Frozen’, ‘Zootopia’, ‘Coco’ and ‘Soul’ just to name a few .
Computer-animated movies have several advantages over traditional hand-drawn animation techniques. First, they offer greater creative freedom because images can be manipulated and changed more easily than traditional animation. Secondly, CGI technology allows you to create characters and environments that look more real and detailed, providing audiences with a highly immersive viewing experience.
However, computer animation also requires a large investment of time and resources. Creating a single frame can take hours or even days of work, which means that producing an entire computer-animated movie can take years of work by a team of artists and technicians.
In general, computer-animated movies have become a very popular film genre due to their ability to offer audiences immersive and visually stunning stories. With the continuous development of CGI technology, it is likely that we will see more and more computer-animated movies in movie theaters and online streaming platforms.
Here is a list of the best arthouse animated movies to watch, considered masterpieces of the genre.
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is an animated movie produced by Walt Disney and released in 1937. It is the first animated feature film ever produced and one of the most popular animated movies of all time.
The film is based on the Brothers Grimm fairy tale “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs”. The plot follows the life of Snow White, a beautiful princess who is forced to flee the castle where she lives due to the envy of her stepmother, the Evil Queen. Snow White takes refuge in a house in the woods, where she lives with seven dwarfs: Grumpy, Puppy, Dotto, Eolo, Gongolo, Mammolo and Sleepy. The Evil Queen discovers where Snow White is hiding and tries to kill her with a poisoned apple, but finally the prince of the kingdom arrives to save her with a loving kiss.
The film was a huge box office success and received great attention from critics. It was also the first film to be accompanied by an original soundtrack, consisting of music and songs.
The film was a major turning point in the history of animation and paved the way for the production of several other successful animated movies. The film has also had a great cultural impact becoming a popular icon around the world.
Fantasia (1940)
Fantasia is an animated movie produced by Walt Disney Productions and released in 1940. It is an innovative and experimental work for the time, as the film mixes animation and classical music to create a sort of “synaesthesia” between the senses of hearing and vision.
The film consists of eight segments, each of which is accompanied by a soundtrack composed by great musicians such as Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, Stravinsky and Bach. The segments, animated by some of the best artists of the time, include ballet scenes, dance of the fairies, the fight between good and evil and much more.
One of the most famous segments of Fantasia is probably Stravinsky’s “The Rite of Spring,” which chronicles the evolution of life on Earth, from the birth of the sun to the appearance of the dinosaurs. The segment was criticized at the time for its brutality and violence, but has become a cornerstone of modern animation.
Fantasia was a big box office success, but met with mixed reactions from critics. However, in the following years it has become a cult film, appreciated both for its visual beauty and for its artistic audacity. The film was also very influential on popular culture, and inspired many other films and artistic productions.
Pinocchio (1940)
The 1940 film Pinocchio is an animated classic produced by Walt Disney Pictures and directed by Ben Sharpsteen and Hamilton Luske. The film is based on the children’s novel by Carlo Collodi, “The Adventures of Pinocchio”.
The plot follows the adventures of the wooden puppet Pinocchio, who is created by the carpenter Geppetto and given to the Blue Fairy. Pinocchio has the desire to become a real boy and so begins a journey full of dangers and adventures to prove himself worthy of his humanity.
Throughout the film, Pinocchio meets unforgettable characters such as Jiminy Cricket, the Cat and the Fox, Stromboli and the fearsome Whale. Each character teaches him an important lesson about life and the value of truth, loyalty and sacrifice.
The film was a huge box office success and received critical acclaim for its innovative animation and unforgettable soundtrack, which includes songs like “When You Wish Upon a Star.” The film also won two Academy Awards, one for Best Score and one for Best Original Song.
Pinocchio has become a popular culture classic and continues to be loved by generations of viewers of all ages.
Bambi (1942)
Bambi is an animated movie produced by Disney in 1942, based on the novel of the same name by Felix Salten. The film tells the story of Bambi, a young fawn who learns to live in the forest with his friends, the Thumper bunny and the Pheasant raccoon. While growing up, Bambi faces many challenges, including the loss of his mother at the hands of hunters.
The film was directed by David Hand and produced by Walt Disney, and was Disney’s fifth animated movie. Bambi was notable for its innovative use of animation technology, such as the creation of a large variety of detailed and realistic backgrounds, and for its accurate and moving depiction of nature and animals.
The film was a major commercial success and received positive reviews from critics. Bambi has become one of Disney’s most beloved classics, known for its stunning animation and powerful story that has touched the hearts of many generations of moviegoers. The character of Bambi and his personal drama has become a cultural icon, with many elements of the film becoming world famous, such as the song “Here’s Bambi”.
The Frog Prince (1954)
The Frog Prince was produced in 1986 and is an adaptation of the famous fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm. The plot follows the story of a princess who, after losing her precious golden ball in a pond, accepts the help of a frog who returns the object to her on condition that he can become her mate.
The princess accepts, but then refuses to keep her promise, so the frog follows her to her castle and insists on being allowed to sleep in her bed. Overnight, the frog is transformed into a handsome prince due to the loyalty of the princess and her promise kept.
The film was directed by Brian Henson, son of famed puppet designer Jim Henson, and used special effects from animatronic creatures to create the frog character. The cast included such actors as John Cleese, who voiced the part of the king, and Robin Wright, who played the princess.
‘The Frog Prince’ received generally positive reviews from critics for its innovative animation and stellar cast, but was only moderately successful at the box office. However, the film has become something of a cult movie and has gained a fan following over the years.
The Snow Queen (1957)
The Snow Queen is a Soviet animated movie based on the famous fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen. It was directed by Lev Atamanov and produced by animation studio Soyuzmultfilm.
The plot of the film follows the story of two friends, Kai and Gerda, who live in a village in northern Russia. One day, Kai is kidnapped by the Snow Queen and Gerda sets out to find her. Along the way, she meets various fantastical characters who help her in her mission.
The film has received much praise for its animation and soundtrack, which includes some of the most famous songs in the history of Soviet animated cinema. In particular, the song “Snegurochka” (“The Snow Maiden”) has become very popular in the Soviet Union and throughout the world.
The film was a great success in the Soviet Union and won the Grand Prix at the Karlovy Vary International animated movie Festival in 1959. It was also released in several countries around the world, receiving positive reviews.
The film is considered one of the masterpieces of Soviet animated cinema and one of the best adaptations of Andersen’s fairy tale to the big screen.
Sleeping Beauty (1959)
Sleeping Beauty is a classic animated movie produced by Walt Disney Pictures in 1959. It is based on the fairy tale of “Sleeping Beauty” by the Brothers Grimm and Charles Perrault.
The film tells the story of Princess Aurora, who is cursed at birth by the wicked witch Maleficent. According to the curse, Aurora will die after touching the spindle of a spinning wheel before her sixteenth birthday. However, thanks to the good fairy Flora, Aurora does not die but falls into a deep sleep that can only be broken by true love’s kiss.
The film is known to be one of the masterpieces of classic Disney animation, thanks to the beauty of the animations, the songs and the soundtrack, composed by Tchaikovsky. The film also received an Academy Award for Best Original Score.
The film was a huge box office success and solidified Disney’s position as a leader in animation. The film inspired numerous copycats and remakes, and the Maleficent character has become one of the most iconic villains of all time in popular culture.
The Ugly Duckling (1959)
The Ugly Duckling is a 1959 Danish animated movie directed by Jannik Hastrup and Flemming Quist Møller, based on the fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen.
The story follows an ugly chick who is outcast and mocked by the other farm animals due to his different appearance. However, after many difficulties and adventures, the chick discovers that it is actually a beautiful swan, and is finally accepted by the other animals and by its family.
The film is known for its simple yet effective animations, which perfectly capture the atmosphere of the original fairy tale. The soundtrack was composed by Bent Fabricius-Bjerre and features an iconic song titled “Den grimme ælling (The Ugly Duckling)”.
The Ugly Duckling has become an animated movie classic and has received numerous awards and accolades, including being nominated for the Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film in 1960. It has also been adapted into various other forms, including a series television and a stage musical.
The Line (1969)
“La Linea” is a series of short Italian animated movies created by Osvaldo Cavandoli in 1969.
The series consists of short-lived episodes, approximately 2-3 minutes each, and follows the adventures of a character called “La Linea”, who is essentially a solid line with two eyes and a nose.
The Line moves amusingly across the screen, encountering obstacles and comical situations while trying to find a way to overcome them. The character doesn’t speak, but he makes comical sounds and his facial expressions are hilarious.
The series has been broadcast in many countries around the world and has gained an international following of fans. She has become an icon of Italian animation and an example of how a simple but creative character can amuse and entertain viewers of all ages.
Vinni-Pukh (1969)
The 1969 Soviet film “Vinni-Pukh” is an animated version of the Winnie the Pooh stories, produced by the Soyuzmultfilm animation studio in the Soviet Union and directed by Fyodor Khitruk. The film has become a classic of Russian animation and has been highly regarded worldwide for its distinctive and unique animation as well as its light and humorous tone.
The plot of the film follows the adventures of honey-loving bear Vinni-Pukh and his friends Tigger, Piglet, Rabbit, Owl, Kanga and Roo in the Forest of Dreams. As in Disney’s version, the main story focuses on Vinni-Pukh’s attempt to find honey, but the Soviet film is notable for its use of clever humor and irony. The tone of the film is very subtle and emphasizes the beauty and poetry of nature as well as the importance of friendship and mutual aid.
The graphics of the film were made with unique and innovative animation using bright colors and strong stylization of the characters. The use of advanced animation techniques allowed the film to create a very special atmosphere, capable of involving viewers of all ages.
The Soviet film “Vinni-Pukh” received many international awards and prizes and became a classic of Russian animation. Its success has led to several sequels and television and film adaptations over the years.
Once Upon a Time There Lived a Dog (1982)
Once Upon a Time There Lived a Dog is a 1988 Soviet animated movie, directed by Eduard Nazarov and produced by animation studio Soyuzmultfilm.
The film tells the story of a stray puppy dog who is separated from his mother and must learn to survive on the streets of a big city. Along the way, he meets other stray animals and befriends an elderly dog named Charik.
The film is known for its emotional and touching storyline as well as its realistic depiction of the life of stray dogs in the USSR. “Once upon a time there was a dog” has become a classic of Soviet animated cinema and has received many awards at home and abroad.
My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
My Neighbor Totoro is a 1988 Japanese animated movie directed by Hayao Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli. The film tells the story of two sisters, Satsuki and Mei, who move with their father to a country house to be closer to the hospital where their mother is recovering from an illness.
Over the course of the film, the sisters encounter a variety of magical creatures, including a giant, furry being called Totoro, who becomes an imaginary friend to the girls. Totoro takes them on a series of adventures that include discovering a magical tree, rescuing a young bamboo tree, and helping their sick mother.
The film has become a classic of Japanese popular culture and has been acclaimed by international critics for its detailed animation, engaging storytelling, and enchanting atmosphere. My Neighbor Totoro is often considered one of the best animated movies ever made and is a must-see for fans of the genre and beyond.
Grave of the Fireflies (1988)
Grave of the Fireflies is a 1988 Japanese animated movie directed by Isao Takahata and produced by Studio Ghibli. The film is based on the 1967 semi-autobiographical novel by Akiyuki Nosaka and tells the story of two brothers, Seita and Setsuko, during World War II Japan.
The film begins with the bombing of Kobe in 1945, in which Seita and Setsuko lose their mother and home. The two brothers take refuge with their aunt, but their situation worsens when the aunt complains about their impact on her daily life. Seita and Setsuko then decide to go and live alone in an abandoned shelter.
The remainder of the film chronicles the two brothers’ agonizing struggle for survival in a war-torn Japan, where hunger and disease are commonplace. Despite their efforts to find food and care for Setsuko, the baby eventually dies of starvation and Seita dies soon after in a shelter.
It is a moving film and often considered one of the saddest and most touching works in the history of cinema. The film was critically acclaimed for its outstanding animation and realistic depiction of war and its aftermath. Although a commercial failure upon its release, the film has gained a cult following over the years and is considered one of the masterpieces of Japanese animated cinema.
Akira (1988)
“Akira” is a 1988 Japanese animated movie directed by Katsuhiro Otomo. The film is based on Otomo’s manga series of the same name, and has become one of the most influential and iconic Japanese animated movies of all time.
The plot of the film is set in a dystopian future in 2019, after World War III has destroyed Tokyo. The city has been rebuilt into a megacity called Neo-Tokyo, where a group of young bikers, including protagonist Kaneda, find themselves caught up in a series of events involving psychic powers, authoritarian rule, and mysterious scientific experiments.
The film was acclaimed for its innovative animation, breathtaking soundtrack and bold and complex storytelling. It also helped spread the popularity of Japanese anime around the world.
“Akira” was one of the first animated movies to be released internationally and had a lasting impact on popular culture, inspiring many other science fiction and anime works.
Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989)
Kiki’s Delivery Service is a 1989 Japanese animated movie directed by Hayao Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli. The film is based on the children’s novel “Majo no Takkyūbin” by writer Eiko Kadono.
The plot follows the young witch Kiki, who has to leave her family home and start her training as a witch. Kiki decides to settle in a coastal town, where she opens a delivery service on a flying broom. He meets several characters along the way, including his black cat Jiji and a young baker named Tombo.
The film explores themes such as friendship, autonomy, maturity and self-acceptance. Kiki faces many difficulties during her adventure, but learns to grow and become more confident, while also discovering her true potential as a witch.
The film’s graphics feature bright and detailed visuals, while the soundtrack was composed by acclaimed composer Joe Hisaishi. “Kiki’s Delivery Service” has become one of the most beloved and iconic animated movies in Japanese popular culture and has gained wide popularity outside of Japan as well.
Princess Mononoke (1997)
Princess Mononoke is a 1997 Japanese animated movie directed by Hayao Miyazaki, produced by Studio Ghibli and distributed in Italy by Lucky Red. The film has become a classic of the genre and one of Miyazaki’s most celebrated films.
The story is set in medieval Japan, and follows the story of the young warrior Ashitaka, who seeks a cure for his curse after killing a god possessed by a demon. During his search, Ashitaka meets Princess Mononoke, a young girl raised among wolves and allied with the animals of the forest in the fight against humans who are destroying nature to build their cities.
The film is known for its strong ecological message and its ability to explore complex themes such as the relationship between man and nature, violence, spirituality and mortality. Princess Mononoke also stands out for its detailed and accurate animation, which represents a work of visual art that combines tradition and innovation.
The film achieved great success with both critics and audiences, becoming one of the most iconic films in the history of Japanese animated cinema and winning numerous awards around the world. Its cultural influence has been enormous, influencing many subsequent works of animated cinema and inspiring artists in different fields.
Perfect Blue (1997)
Perfect Blue is a 1997 Japanese psychological animated movie directed by Satoshi Kon and based on the novel Perfect Blue: Complete Metamorphosis by Yoshikazu Takeuchi.
The film follows the story of Mima Kirigoe, a Japanese pop star who decides to leave the music business to become an actress. However, her transition into the film world is not easy, as she becomes involved in a series of strange and disturbing events that threaten her mental health.
The central theme of Perfect Blue is identity and how one’s perception of oneself can be influenced by the opinion of others. The film also explores the negative consequences of the obsession of fans and the entertainment world on those involved.
Perfect Blue is a film that stands out for its unique visual style, which mixes elements of traditional Japanese animation with Western cinematography. Furthermore, the film’s soundtrack, composed by Masahiro Ikumi, contributes to the eerie and disturbing atmosphere.
The film was critically acclaimed for its complex storyline and the way it deals with serious issues such as mental health, sexuality and violence. Perfect Blue has become a cult movie and has inspired many directors and artists over the years.
Lucky and Zorba (1998)
Lucky and Zorba is a 1998 Italian animated movie directed by Enzo D’Alò and based on the children’s book of the same name by Luis Sepúlveda.
The story takes place in a seagull colony on the coast of South America. The protagonist is Kengah, a young seagull who dreams of flying higher and higher. One day, he meets Zorba, a street cat who has been hunted by his gang. Zorba, who is looking for a place to spend the night, meets Kengah and the two become friends. When Kengah discovers her parents have been captured by a group of humans, Zorba offers to help her free them.
The film deals with themes such as friendship, solidarity, freedom and nature. The soundtrack, composed by Ennio Morricone, was highly praised and the film received numerous awards, including the prize for best animated movie at the Annecy Film Festival in 1998.
The movie has become a classic of Italian animated cinema and has made the story of Luis Sepúlveda known to a wider audience.
Ghost in the Shell (1995)
Ghost in the Shell is a 1995 Japanese animated movie directed by Mamoru Oshii and based on the manga of the same name by Masamune Shirow. The film has been highly influential in Japanese animation and popular culture in general.
The plot of the film is set in the near future, where the lines between man and machine are increasingly blurred. The protagonist is Major Motoko Kusanagi, a cyborg from the Section 9 public safety unit, who is assigned to investigate a mysterious hacker known as “The Puppeteer”, who is attacking citizens’ minds across cyberspace.
The film explores complex themes such as identity, consciousness, artificial intelligence and the relationship between body and mind. The plot features many action scenes, fights and chases, but also moments of introspection and philosophical reflection.
The film’s graphics were innovative for its time, using traditional computer graphics and animation to create a futuristic and surreal vision of the city of Neo-Tokyo. The soundtrack, composed by Kenji Kawai, was particularly praised for its succinct and atmospheric style.
The success of Ghost in the Shell has led to the creation of numerous derivative works, including sequels, spin-offs, video games and live-action film adaptations. The film is considered a classic of Japanese animation and has influenced many others science fiction film e cyberpunk.
Beauty and the Beast (1991)
Beauty and the Beast is a classic animated movie produced by Walt Disney Pictures in 1991. It was directed by Gary Trousdale and Kirk Wise and based on the French fairy tale ‘La Belle et la Bête’ written by Jeanne-Marie Leprince de Beaumont.
The plot of the film follows a young woman named Belle, who lives in a small French village with her father Maurice. Belle is an avid reader and dreamer, but is often mocked by her fellow townspeople for her extravagance and her disinterest in the village men who try to woo her. One day, Maurice ventures into the forest and is taken prisoner by the Beast, a prince transformed into a horrible creature by a witch who had condemned him to live as such until he found true love.
Belle offers to take her father’s place as the Beast’s prisoner and is taken to the creature’s castle, where she befriends the castle’s enchanted animated objects and begins to discover that the Beast is actually a kind soul beneath his brutal exterior. Meanwhile, Gaston, the local hunter, discovers Maurice is missing and tries to get the townspeople to form a mob to attack the Beast.
The film features a number of memorable songs, including “Belle,” “Be Our Guest,” and “Beauty and the Beast,” which earned multiple awards, including an Academy Award for Best Original Score and Best Original Song. The film was also a major commercial success, grossing over $400 million worldwide and becoming the first animated movie to be nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture.
The film was praised for its innovative animation and heartwarming love story, which captivated audiences of all ages. The film has become a classic of the animated genre and has inspired numerous subsequent stage and film adaptations, including a 2017 live-action version produced by Disney.
Paprika (2006)
“Paprika” is a 2006 Japanese animated movie directed by Satoshi Kon. The film is based on the novel of the same name by Yasutaka Tsutsui and was produced by the Madhouse studio. The film was released in Japan on November 25, 2006 and in many countries around the world in 2007.
The film’s plot revolves around a new technology called “DC Mini”, which allows people to enter their dreams and record them. The technology is being developed by a team of scientists led by Dr. Atsuko Chiba, who use a virtual identity called “Paprika” to navigate her patients’ dreams and help them overcome their psychological problems.
However, when the “DC Mini” prototypes are stolen and start wreaking havoc in the world of dreams and reality, Paprika finds herself on an adventure to stop the criminal responsible and save the world from blurring the line between dream and reality. reality.
The film was praised for its high-quality animation and complex and original storyline. In particular, many critics praised the visual representation of the dream world, which uses a variety of art styles and vibrant colors to create a unique visual experience.
‘Paprika’ has also been compared to other Japanese animated movies such as ‘Ghost in the Shell’ and ‘Akira’ for its ability to address complex issues such as the nature of reality, perception of the self, and the ethics of technology. The film has become a cult favorite over the years and is considered a milestone in the history of Japanese animation.
The Triplets of Belleville (2003)
“The Triplets of Belleville” is a 2003 French animated movie written and directed by Sylvain Chomet. The film was nominated for an Oscar as best animated movie and received numerous awards at international festivals.
The plot follows the story of Madame Souza, an old lady who adopts her nephew Champion, a young cyclist with big ambitions. When Champion is kidnapped during the Tour de France, Madame Souza sets out to find him, aided by the “Belleville Triplets”, three retired cabaret singers.
The film is known for its unique visual style and original soundtrack, which includes few words and relies mostly on sound effects and jazz music. The narrative is almost completely devoid of dialogue, with the characters communicating through facial expressions and gestures.
“The Triplets of Belleville” is a whimsical and surreal film, with a strong attention to detail and atmosphere, making it a real visual and aural experience. It is a tribute to French culture, silent cinema and jazz, but also a reflection on the consequences of modernity and progress on society and people.
Millennium Actress (2001)
Millennium Actress is a 2001 Japanese animated movie directed by Satoshi Kon. The film tells the story of Chiyoko Fujiwara, a famous Japanese cinema actress who, during an interview, talks about her life and career.
The film’s narrative spans several decades of Chiyoko’s life, from her early experiences as an actress during World War II, through her rise to fame in the 1950s and 1960s, to her retirement from the stage in the 1970s.
The film is an amazing work of art that perfectly mixes reality with fantasy, creating a kind of dreamlike journey through the life of the actress. Satoshi Kon’s direction is masterful, using non-linear editing techniques to build the story and immerse us in the psychology of the character.
In Millennium Actress, Kon explores the themes of time, love and memory, inviting the viewer to reflect on the ephemeral nature of life and art. The film was critically acclaimed and won numerous international awards, cementing Satoshi Kon’s position as one of the most important and innovative directors in Japanese animated cinema.
Spirited Away (2001)
Spirited Away is a 2001 Japanese animated movie directed by the legendary director Hayao Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli. The film follows the adventures of Chihiro, a young girl who finds herself trapped in a supernatural world after her parents are turned into pigs by a curse.
Chihiro must try to save her parents and find a way back home, but to do so she will have to overcome a series of challenges and meet a variety of strange and wonderful characters, including the river spirit Haku and the mysterious witch Yubaba.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the film is its surreal fantasy world, which is filled with weird and wonderful creatures, such as dragons, nature spirits, and other magical beings. The animation is incredibly detailed and the visuals are full of vivid colors and details that make the world of Spirited Away a breathtaking and enchanting place.
The film also addresses important themes such as the importance of family, inner strength and the value of humanity, all wrapped up in a fantastic and engaging story that has been acclaimed by critics and audiences around the world. The film won numerous awards, including the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature in 2003, and is considered one of the best animated movies of all time.
Howl’s Moving Castle (2004)
Howl’s Moving Castle is a 2004 Japanese animated movie directed by Hayao Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli. The film is based on the novel of the same name by British writer Diana Wynne Jones.
The plot of the film follows the adventures of Sophie, a young girl who works as a hat maker, who is cursed by a witch and transformed into an old woman. Seeking a cure for her curse, Sophie meets Howl, an eccentric and mysterious wizard who lives in a walking castle.
Together with him and his companions, including a boy named Marco and a fire demon named Calcifer, Sophie will face numerous adventures and dangers to defeat the witch and discover the secret of Howl’s moving castle.
The film was praised for its high-quality animation, engaging soundtrack, and enchanting story. Director Miyazaki has stated that the film focuses on war themes, of lost innocence and the relationship between people and nature. The film received numerous awards and accolades, including the Best animated movie Award at the 2004 Venice Film Festival and an Academy Award nomination for Best animated movie in 2006.
The Curse of the Were-Rabbit (2005)
The Curse of the Were-Rabbit is a 2005 animated movie directed by Nick Park e Steve Box and produced by Aardman Animations. The film is the third short film starring Wallace and Gromit, the two famous characters created by Aardman.
The plot follows the adventures of Wallace, an eccentric inventor, and his faithful dog Gromit, as they try to solve the mystery of a were-rabbit that is terrorizing the village where they live. Wallace is a cheese enthusiast and, to make a living, he founded a company that deals with eliminating the rabbits that invade the farmers’ fields. Gromit, on the other hand, is the brains of the duo and the real engine of their businesses.
The film was critically acclaimed for its flawless stop-motion animation and surreal humor. It has won numerous awards, including the Academy Award for Best animated movie in 2006, the BAFTA for Best British animated movie in 2006 and the Hugo Award for Best drama movie in 2006.
The film became an animated classic and cemented the success of the two characters created by Aardman, who went on to inspire a series of spin-offs, short films and video games.
Ponyo (2008)
Ponyo is a 2008 Japanese animated movie directed by Hayao Miyazaki, produced by Studio Ghibli. The film was released in Japan on July 19, 2008 and in the United States on August 14, 2009.
The plot of the film revolves around the story of Ponyo, a magical golden fish who lives in an aquarium in the house of a boy named Sosuke. Ponyo longs to become human and one day escapes from the aquarium, unintentionally causing a storm that endangers the coastal town of Sosuke. During her escape, Ponyo meets Sosuke and the two become friends.
Ponyo decides to become human and seeks the help of magic to do so, causing even more problems when this magic starts causing floods and tsunamis all over the world. Sousuke and Ponyo will have to find a way to control the magic and restore balance to the world.
The film was well received by critics, who praised the animation, soundtrack and storytelling. The film was also nominated for several awards, including an Academy Award for Best Original Score. The film has become one of Miyazaki’s and Studio Ghibli’s most beloved films due to its imaginative narrative and ecological themes.
Wall-E (2008)
Wall-E is an animated movie produced by Pixar Animation Studios and directed by Andrew Stanton. It was released in 2008 and quickly became an animated movie classic.
The plot of the film follows the adventures of Wall-E, a lonely robot left on Earth to clean it after humans leave the planet due to excessive pollution. Wall-E spends his days compacting the garbage left behind by humanity, but dreams of having a different life.
One day, a robot named Eve arrives on the planet, tasked with looking for signs of life on Earth. Wall-E falls in love with Eve and follows her into space, where they discover a spaceship housing the last surviving humans. Wall-E and Eve work together to save humans and bring them back to Earth.
The film was critically acclaimed for its stunning animation, engaging storyline, and eco-friendly message. It was also nominated for several awards, including the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and the Hugo Award for Best Drama.
Wall-E is a film that deals with important issues such as environmental sustainability, the importance of human relationships and the strength of technological innovation. It has had a significant impact on popular culture and remains a beloved film for many people of all ages.
Waltz with Bashir (2008)
“Waltz with Bashir” is a 2008 Israeli animated movie written and directed by Ari Folman. The film tells the story of Folman himself, a veteran of the 1982 Lebanon War, who tries to piece together his memories of that war through interviews with his former comrades in arms.
The film explores themes such as memory, guilt, responsibility and the violence of war. The narration is characterized by realistic and raw war scenes, alternating with dreamlike and surreal images.
One of the most interesting features of the film is the use of animation technique to tell such an intense and dramatic story. Choosing to use animation allows reality to be represented through a different lens, creating an emotional distance that allows the viewer to observe reality more objectively.
The film was critically acclaimed, winning numerous awards, including the Golden Globe for Best Foreign Language Film and Best Foreign Language Film at the National Society of Film Critics Awards. “Waltz with Bashir” is a powerful and engaging film that tackles difficult subjects in an original and inspiring way.
Redline (2009)
Redline is a 2009 Japanese animated movie directed by Takeshi Koike and produced by Madhouse. The film follows the story of driver JP, who qualifies for the legendary Redline car race. The Redline is an intergalactic road race, illegally staged on a distant planet and each driver has only one chance to participate. JP not only has to face his rivals in the race, but also the intergalactic government, which seeks to stop the race at all costs.
The film stands out for its spectacular and detailed animation, which uses a combination of traditional and digital techniques to create a unique viewing experience. The film’s soundtrack, composed by James Shimoji, is equally impressive, with a blend of electronic, rock and hip-hop music accompanying the action perfectly.
The film was critically well received for its striking animation and engaging storyline, but had little success at the box office. Despite this, it has become a cult favorite for fans of animated movies and car racing, and is considered one of the most representative films of the genre.
Up (2009)
“Up” is an animated movie produced by Pixar Animation Studios in 2009. The film was directed by Pete Docter, and writers include Bob Peterson and Thomas McCarthy. The soundtrack of the film was composed by Michael Giacchino.
The plot of the film follows the story of Carl Fredricksen, an elderly widower who decides to fulfill a lifelong dream: to fly to South America with his house, tied up with thousands of colorful balloons. Carl is accompanied by young Russell, a boy scout who wants to get his last merit badge to become a senior scout.
Carl and Russell’s journey through South America becomes a exciting adventure, during which they meet such characters as the talking dog Dug, the ferocious Kevin (a tropical bird) and the villain Charles Muntz, a famous explorer.
“Up” was a huge success with both critics and audiences. It won numerous awards, including the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature in 2010. The film was particularly praised for its engaging storyline, funny and touching characters, and breathtaking visuals, which paid homage to the beauty of nature. south american.
Coraline (2009)
Coraline is a 2009 animated movie directed by Henry Selick and based on the 2002 young adult novel by Neil Gaiman.
The plot follows young Coraline, who moves with her parents into an old house. The girl feels lonely and neglected, until she discovers a secret door that leads to another version of her home, where she meets her “other parents” who seem perfect, but hide a dark side. Coraline will have to face a path of growth and courage to free herself from the trap she has fallen into and save her real family.
The film was critically acclaimed for its direction, stop-motion animation, and dark and creepy atmosphere, fitting the story. It has received numerous accolades, including the Academy Award for Best Animation in 2010.
How to Train Your Dragon (2010)
How to Train Your Dragon is a 2010 animated movie produced by DreamWorks Animation and directed by Chris Sanders e Dean DeBlois. The film is based on Cressida Cowell’s 2003 novel of the same name.
The plot of the film follows the young Viking named Hiccup, who lives on the island of Berk where the Vikings and dragons have been at war for generations. Despite being the son of the village chief, Hiccup is not a very skilled warrior, but he has an innate curiosity for dragons, and during one of his explorations, he discovers a wounded baby dragon, which he decides to name Toothless.
Initially, Hiccup attempts to train Toothless to prove his mettle to his father and the community, but eventually, the two become close friends, discovering that the war between dragons and Vikings is actually based on a series of misunderstandings and prejudices.
The film received positive reviews from critics and audiences, praising the plot, direction, visuals and vocal performances. The film grossed more than $500 million worldwide, spawning two sequels and a television series. The score, composed by John Powell, also received an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Score. The film has become one of the modern classics of animation, with a strong message about tolerance and understanding of differences.
Zootopia (2016)
Zootopia is a 2016 animated movie produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios. The film is set in a fictional town called Zootopia, inhabited by anthropomorphic animals, where a bunny girl named Judy Hopps joins the local police force as the first bunny in the town’s history.
The film’s plot follows Judy on her quest to solve a mysterious case of missing animals, where she meets a rogue fox named Nick Wilde, who becomes her sidekick. Together, they try to bridge the differences between their species and defeat a conspiracy that threatens the stability of Zootopia.
The film addresses issues such as diversity, equality and tolerance, and received positive reviews from critics for its positive message, humor and high-quality animation. It also achieved great commercial success, grossing over a billion dollars worldwide.
Zootopia has won numerous awards, including the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature in 2017 and the Golden Globe for Best Animated Feature in the same year. The film also inspired several attractions at Disney theme parks around the world and spawned a series of books and comics based on the film’s story and characters.
Inside Out (2015)
Inside Out is a 2015 animated movie produced by Pixar Animation Studios and directed by Pete Docter. The film was critically acclaimed and became a huge box office hit.
The plot follows the emotional life of a young girl named Riley, who moves with her family to the city of San Francisco. Riley’s emotions – Joy, Sadness, Anger, Disgust and Fear – are represented as characters within her mind and work together to manage her experiences and memories.
When Joy and Sadness accidentally find themselves separated from Riley’s emotional control center and are sucked into the abyss of the mind, they must work together to return to the control center and restore balance to Riley’s emotions.
The film deals in a creative and entertaining way with important themes such as the importance of emotions in human life, the importance of change and adaptation, the complexity of personal identity and the importance of interpersonal relationships.
Inside Out has been praised for its originality, its moving story, its striking visuals and its ability to speak to audiences of all ages. It has received numerous awards, including the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.
Coco (2017)
Coco is a musical film animated movie of 2017 produced by Pixar Animation Studios and directed byLee Unkrich. The film is set during Day of the Dead in Mexico and follows the adventures of Miguel, a young boy who dreams of becoming a famous musician, but who has been banned from music by his family.
Miguel learns that his great-grandfather, a famous musician, may be the father of legendary singer Ernesto de la Cruz. Determined to prove his kinship with de la Cruz, Miguel embarks on an adventure to the world of the dead, where he meets the likeable Hector and together they try to uncover the truth about his family.
The film was highly praised for its family message, reminding its viewers of the importance of honoring one’s roots and family. Additionally, the film’s original soundtrack, which includes songs like “Remember Me” and “Un Poco Loco,” was a huge hit and won several awards, including the Academy Award for Best Original Song.
Coco has also been lauded for its authentic depiction of Mexican and Day of the Dead culture, with great attention to detail and cultural sensitivity. The film received positive reviews from critics and audiences and became one of the highest rated animated movies ever.
Cinderella the Cat (2017)
“Cinderella The Cat” is a 2017 Italian animated movie directed by Alessandro Rak, Ivan Cappiello, Marino Guarnieri and Dario Sansone. The film premiered at the 2017 Venice Film Festival and won several awards, including the David di Donatello for Best Animated Feature in 2018.
The film is a modern adaptation of the Cinderella fairy tale set in contemporary Naples, but in a very different version from the original fairy tale. The protagonist of the film is a girl named Mia, who lives in a world dominated by organized crime. After her mother’s death, Mia is forced to work as a servant for her stepmother and stepsisters, but dreams of escaping her poverty and becoming a successful singer.
The plot of the film follows the story of Mia as she tries to fulfill her dreams and escape her life of misery. Together with her friend, the cat Micio, and her fairy godmother, the god of Vesuvius, Mia tries to win a song contest that could change her life forever. Meanwhile, his stepfather and stepmother plot to use his talent to get rich.
The film was praised for its innovative animation, original soundtrack and compelling storytelling. Its unique setting in contemporary Naples, together with its well-developed characters, make it a surprisingly modern adaptation of the classic Cinderella fairy tale.
Isle of Dogs (2018)
It is a 2018 stop-motion animated movie directed by Wes Anderson. The film is set in a dystopian future where the mayor of Megasaki City, Japan has declared that all dogs are sick and exiled them to a garbage dump on the Isle of Dogs.
The story follows a twelve-year-old boy named Atari Kobayashi, the mayor’s nephew, who ventures to the Isle of Dogs in search of his pet dog, Spots. There, he meets a group of stray dogs who help him in his search. The Dog Gang includes the leader, Rex, the German Shepherd; Boss, the American bulldog; Duke, the stray dog; King, the dog who was once a circus leader; and Chief, the lonely stray.
The film is notable for its unique aesthetic and soundtrack, which incorporates elements of Japanese culture and traditional Japanese taiko orchestra. The voice cast includes names like Bryan Cranston, Edward Norton, Bill Murray, Jeff Goldblum, Scarlett Johansson, Tilda Swinton and Yoko Ono.
The film was generally well received by critics and won the Silver Bear Award for Best Director at the 2018 Berlin Film Festival. However, the film has also been criticized for its depiction of Japanese culture and its use of cultural stereotypes.
