The Best Oscar-Winning Animated Films

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Updated May 15, 2024 33.4K views 21 items
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Vote up the best films to win an Oscar for Best Animated Feature

Animated movies have been around since Disney released Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs in 1937, but it wasn't until 2001 that the Academy first introduced a new award category for this kind of movie. In 2001, Shrek took home the first Oscar given for Best Animated Feature. This list includes every movie to win an Oscar for animated film, including titles such as “Toy Story 3”, “Brave," and “Happy Feet.”

Movies have the ability to make us feel. They make us want to believe, be inspired and live vicariously through the stories we see on screen. It is for this reason we often feel an emotional connection to films. The best of these movies are often bestowed with an Academy Award nomination, and those that are truly the best take home the Oscar.

These best Oscar winning animated films provide a kind of escapism that filmmakers hope people seek in entertainment. They are often heart-warming, endearing, and appropriate for the whole family. They provide the type of entertainment that is groundbreaking in their technology and their story-telling. These movies vary in their genre, though many are comedies, but they are all equally engaging.

Though all of these animated films were the best in their year, some are still the best of all winners. Vote up the best Academy Award winning animated films below.

Most divisive: Rango
Over 1.3K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of Best Winning Animated Films
  • Shrek
    1

    Shrek

    Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz
    432 votes
    Shrek, a DreamWorks Animation production, is an engaging blend of comedy and fairy tale adventure. The story centers around Shrek (Mike Myers), a grumpy yet endearing ogre, who finds his solitary swamp life disrupted by numerous fairytale creatures banished by the villainous Lord Farquaad (John Lithgow). To reclaim his home, Shrek embarks on a quest to rescue Princess Fiona (Cameron Diaz) for Farquaad, accompanied by a remarkably chatty Donkey (Eddie Murphy). This Academy Award-winning film cleverly subverts traditional fairy tale tropes while offering viewers a humorous, heartwarming narrative about friendship and acceptance.
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  • WALL-E
    2

    WALL-E

    Ben Burtt, Elissa Knight, Jeff Garlin
    425 votes
    In the post-apocalyptic, deserted Earth of this film, WALL-E (Ben Burtt) is a robot with a singular task: clean up. His solitude is disrupted by EVE (Elissa Knight), a sleek reconnaissance robot. The plot unfolds as WALL-E's fascination with EVE leads him on an interstellar journey that will determine the fate of mankind. A Pixar creation directed by Andrew Stanton, this animated science fiction film has bagged an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, among other accolades. It's a captivating blend of romance and adventure, underpinned by profound environmental themes.
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  • Ratatouille
    3

    Ratatouille

    Patton Oswalt, Ian Holm, Lou Romano
    380 votes
    In the animated movie Ratatouille, Remy (voiced by Patton Oswalt), a rat with an exceptional palate, dreams of becoming a chef. Living in Paris, he stumbles upon Gusteau's restaurant and forms an unlikely alliance with Linguini (Lou Romano), a clumsy garbage boy. Together, they defy societal norms and culinary traditions to serve up delectable dishes that challenge the status quo. Directed by Brad Bird, this Pixar production is an Oscar-winning blend of comedy and adventure that explores themes of friendship, ambition, and the joy of cooking.
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  • Up
    4

    Up

    Ed Asner, Christopher Plummer, Jordan Nagai
    435 votes
    Up, an animation adventure film, spins a story of unexpected friendships and unforeseen journeys. Carl Fredricksen (Ed Asner), a retired balloon salesman, embarks on a whimsical journey after he ties thousands of balloons to his house. Russell (Jordan Nagai), a young wilderness explorer, accidentally joins him in this airborne odyssey. The two navigate diverse landscapes and meet colorful characters, including the exotic bird Kevin and the talking dog Dug (Bob Peterson). This Pixar creation, directed by Pete Docter, won the 2010 Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, a testament to its imaginative storytelling.
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  • The Incredibles
    5

    The Incredibles

    Craig T. Nelson, Holly Hunter, Samuel L. Jackson
    408 votes
    In The Incredibles, Bob Parr (Craig T. Nelson), once known as Mr. Incredible, is a superhero in hiding, tucked away in suburban monotony with his wife Helen (Holly Hunter), formerly Elastigirl, and their three children. When duty calls, the family must leave their ordinary lives behind to combat the nefarious Syndrome (Jason Lee). This Pixar animated film, a blend of action and comedy, takes us on an extraordinary journey of familial bond and heroism, while exploring themes like identity and societal expectations. Winner of two Academy Awards, The Incredibles is a testament to Pixar's prowess in storytelling and animation.
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  • Finding Nemo
    6

    Finding Nemo

    Albert Brooks, Ellen DeGeneres, Alexander Gould
    398 votes
    Dive into the vibrant, underwater world of Finding Nemo, a Pixar-animated adventure brimming with humor and heart. Marlin (Albert Brooks), an overprotective clownfish, embarks on a daring rescue mission across the ocean when his son, Nemo (Alexander Gould), is captured by a diver and placed in a fish tank in a dentist's office. Alongside Dory (Ellen DeGeneres), a forgetful but friendly blue tang, Marlin faces dangerous waters, meeting eccentric sea creatures along the way. This film, awarded the Best Animated Feature at the 76th Academy Awards, masterfully combines compelling storytelling with stunning visual artistry.
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  • Coco
    7

    Coco

    Anthony Gonzalez, Gael García Bernal, Benjamin Bratt
    256 votes
    In the heart of Mexico, young Miguel (Anthony Gonzalez) dreams of becoming an accomplished musician like his idol, Ernesto de la Cruz (Benjamin Bratt). However, his family has a generations-old ban on music. On Dia de los Muertos, a series of mysterious events leads Miguel to the stunning and vibrant Land of the Dead. Alongside trickster Hector (Gael Garcia Bernal), he embarks on an extraordinary journey to unravel the real story behind his family history. Coco is a captivating animation from Pixar that won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature in 2018. It beautifully blends music, folklore and family values into its plotline, offering a unique perspective on the Mexican culture.
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  • Spirited Away
    8

    Spirited Away

    Rumi Hîragi, Miyu Irino, Mari Natsuki
    359 votes
    In this animated feature by noted Japanese director Hayao Miyazaki, 10-year-old Chihiro (Rumi Hiiragi) and her parents (Takashi Naitô, Yasuko Sawaguchi) stumble upon a seemingly abandoned amusement park. After her mother and father are turned into giant pigs, Chihiro meets the mysterious Haku (Miyu Irino), who explains that the park is a resort for supernatural beings who need a break from their time spent in the earthly realm, and that she must work there to free herself and her parents.
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  • Inside Out
    9

    Inside Out

    Amy Poehler, Phyllis Smith, Richard Kind
    195 votes
    In the vibrant animation Inside Out, a young girl named Riley (Kaitlyn Dias) navigates the complexities of a new city and school, guided by her unique emotions. These emotions - Joy (Amy Poehler), Sadness (Phyllis Smith), Fear (Bill Hader), Anger (Lewis Black), and Disgust (Mindy Kaling) - reside in Headquarters, the control center inside Riley's mind. As Riley's life takes unexpected turns, so does the harmony within Headquarters. The film delicately explores emotion-driven decision-making, earning an Oscar for Best Animated Feature. This Pixar creation is not just a movie; it's an enlightening journey into the human psyche.
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  • Zootopia
    10

    Zootopia

    Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman, Shakira
    281 votes
    In the vibrant city of Zootopia, a place where animals coexist in harmony, Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin), an ambitious bunny cop, teams up with a sly fox named Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman) to solve a mysterious case. The movie is an animated thrill-ride, loaded with humor and action, as well as social commentary. Notably, Zootopia won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. It's a tale of friendship and determination, showing that no matter what your size or species, anyone can make a difference.
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  • Toy Story 3
    11

    Toy Story 3

    Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack
    396 votes
    In Toy Story 3, Woody (Tom Hanks), Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen) and the rest of their toy companions face an uncertain future as their owner, Andy, prepares to leave for college. Unintentionally donated to a chaotic daycare center, they find themselves in a thrilling escapade to return home. Amidst the adventure, they encounter deceptively cuddly bear Lotso (Ned Beatty), who rules the daycare with an iron fist. The film, a delightful blend of comedy and drama, won two Academy Awards - Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song.
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  • Big Hero 6
    12

    Big Hero 6

    Ryan Potter, Scott Adsit, T.J. Miller
    173 votes
    In the animated blockbuster Big Hero 6, Hiro Hamada (voiced by Ryan Potter), a tech-savvy teenager, uncovers a criminal plot. His brother Tadashi's (Daniel Henney) creation, Baymax (Scott Adsit), an inflatable healthcare robot, becomes an unlikely companion. Together they assemble a team: adrenaline junkie GoGo Tomago (Jamie Chung), neatnik Wasabi (Damon Wayans Jr.), chemistry whiz Honey Lemon (Genesis Rodriguez), and fanboy Fred (T.J. Miller). Set in the hybrid city of San Fransokyo, this action-packed adventure won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature in 2015. The film is a unique fusion of robotics, friendship, and superhero genre elements that makes for a fun ride.
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  • Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse
    13

    Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse

    Shameik Moore, Jake Johnson, Hailee Steinfeld
    85 votes
    Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is an animated superhero film that redefines the traditional concept of Spider-Man. Miles Morales (Shameik Moore), a teenager from Brooklyn, grapples with his new powers after being bitten by a radioactive spider. The plot thickens when he encounters Peter B. Parker (Jake Johnson), an older and jaded version of Spider-Man from a different universe. Together, they navigate a multiverse teeming with various iterations of Spider-Man, each distinct yet bound by the same heroic mantle. This visually stunning film was awarded the Best Animated Feature at the 91st Academy Awards for its innovative storytelling and dynamic animation style.
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  • Frozen
    14

    Frozen

    Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel, Jonathan Groff
    339 votes
    Frozen is a captivating animation, set in the mystical kingdom of Arendelle. Queen Elsa (Idina Menzel) possesses an extraordinary but perilous power - she can create ice and snow. Her younger sister, Princess Anna (Kristen Bell), embarks on a daring adventure to bring her sister back after Elsa's powers inadvertently plunge their kingdom into eternal winter. Joined by rugged mountain man Kristoff (Jonathan Groff) and his loyal reindeer Sven, they encounter trolls, harsh conditions, and magic at every turn. The film, noted for its memorable songs and stunning visuals, won two Academy Awards - Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song for Let It Go.
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  • Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit
    15

    Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit

    Peter Sallis, Ralph Fiennes, Helena Bonham Carter
    251 votes
    In the delightful stop-motion animated film Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit, Wallace (voiced by Peter Sallis) and his loyal dog, Gromit, run a humane pest control service. They are tasked with protecting the town's gigantic vegetables for the annual Giant Vegetable Competition. However, their mission takes a turn when they grapple with a monstrous rabbit. This charming comedy, directed by Nick Park and Steve Box, won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature in 2005. Its unique blend of British humor, unforgettable characters, and inventive plot is sure to entertain viewers of all ages.
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  • Brave
    16

    Brave

    Kelly Macdonald, Billy Connolly, Emma Thompson
    290 votes
    In the animated film Brave, a young Scottish princess named Merida (voiced by Kelly Macdonald) defies an age-old custom, causing chaos in her kingdom. Determined to carve her own path in life, she unknowingly unleashes a curse and must rely on her bravery and archery skills to undo it. Supported by Queen Elinor (Emma Thompson), King Fergus (Billy Connolly), and her triplet brothers, Merida embarks on an epic journey. Directed by Mark Andrews and Brenda Chapman, this movie won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. A tale of courage, adventure, and self-discovery, it's a cinematic masterpiece that captivates audiences with its stunning visuals and compelling narrative.
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  • Soul
    17

    Soul

    Jamie Foxx, Tina Fey, Phylicia Rashad
    113 votes
    Joe is a middle-school band teacher whose life hasn't quite gone the way he expected. His true passion is jazz -- and he's good. But when he travels to another realm to help someone find their passion, he soon discovers what it means to have soul.
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  • Encanto
    18

    Encanto

    Stephanie Beatriz, María Cecilia Botero, Diane Guerrero
    70 votes
    The Madrigals are an extraordinary family who live hidden in the mountains of Colombia in a charmed place called the Encanto. The magic of the Encanto has blessed every child in the family with a unique gift -- every child except Mirabel. However, she soon may be the Madrigals last hope when she discovers that the magic surrounding the Encanto is now in danger.
  • Rango
    19

    Rango

    Johnny Depp, Isla Fisher, Abigail Breslin
    260 votes
    In the animated adventure-comedy Rango, Rango, a chameleon (voiced by Johnny Depp), stumbles into the gritty, gun-slinging town of Dirt. An outsider in this parched outpost, he reinvents himself as a tough-talking sheriff to bring law and order. However, when bandits threaten the town's precious water supply, Rango faces his first real test of bravery. Directed by Gore Verbinski, this film won an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. It showcases a unique blend of comedy and action, with standout performances from Isla Fisher and Bill Nighy as supporting characters.
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  • Happy Feet
    20

    Happy Feet

    Elijah Wood, Robin Williams, Brittany Murphy
    256 votes
    Mumble (Elijah Wood), a young emperor penguin, lives in Antarctica. Like others of his kind, he needs to be able to sing to attract a mate, but he has a terrible voice. Instead, Mumble must express himself, and lure a female through his amazing talent for tap-dancing.
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  • Toy Story 4
    21

    Toy Story 4

    Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Annie Potts
    156 votes
    In Toy Story 4, Woody (Tom Hanks) finds himself on an unexpected journey when Bonnie's new craft-project-turned-toy, Forky (Tony Hale), escapes during a family road trip. Alongside old friends and new faces like Duke Caboom (Keanu Reeves), the gang embarks on a quest to bring Forky home. The film, directed by Josh Cooley, won an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. Known for its adventure-comedy genre, it explores themes of loyalty, friendship, and purpose, all while keeping viewers engaged with its clever humor and stunning visuals.
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