The Best 2000s Animated Movies, Ranked

Ranker Film
Updated May 15, 2024 39.9K views 69 items
Ranked By
14.4K votes
1.5K voters
3 reranks
Voting Rules
Vote up your favorite animated films that were released in the 2000s.

Embrace the nostalgia as we turn back the time to the golden era of the 21st century marked by spotlight-stealing 2000s animated movies. An era when animation technology carved fresh pathways, paving the way for captivating narratives coupled with digital artistry. These animated films from the 2000s not only broke box office records but also captured the hearts of audiences worldwide, inspiring and entertaining us all. 

These aren't just animated movies; they are timeless classics that stand testament to the power of storytelling, blending breathtaking visuals, tantalizing plots, and soul-stirring voice acting. The animated movies from the 2000s have set their own benchmark by breathing life into visually enchanting characters, immersive plotlines, insightful dialogues, and powerful performances by voice actors. The secret recipe for their success lies in the perfect combination of education and entertainment, making them not just films but experiences in themselves. 

Step into the world of The Incredibles, where superpowers meet everyday family life, or laugh along with Shrek, a delightful twist on classic fairy tales. Be it venturing into the vibrant underwater realm in Finding Nemo, navigating through a city of monsters with Monsters, Inc., or tasting culinary excellence with Ratatouille, each stellar 2000s animated movies is a unique journey. To add to the convenience of these cinematic explorations, streaming options include Amazon Prime, Disney+, Hulu, Netflix, Max, and Paramount+, arranged right under each cartoon movie. 

As we delve into the heart of the best 2000s animated movies, we find stories that have shaped, inspired, and revolutionized the world of animation. These masterpieces continue to influence generations, teaching, entertaining, and captivating all at once. Such is the power and allure of animation, a testament to a remarkable period in cinematic history.

Most divisive: Looney Tunes: Back in Action
Over 1.5K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best 2000s Animated Movies, Ranked
  • Monsters, Inc.
    1
    John Goodman, Billy Crystal, Mary Gibbs
    481 votes

    Monsters, Inc., a trailblazer in animation during the 2000s, expertly combined humor and heart in a story about mythical creatures working at a scream-energy company. The film's use of vibrant animation brought a unique world to life while also touching upon themes of friendship and overcoming fear. With flawless character development and an engaging plot, Monsters, Inc. exemplifies the best of what the animation genre has to offer. The incredible voice talents of John Goodman and Billy Crystal helped solidify this Pixar classic as one of the standout animated films of the decade.

  • Shrek
    2
    Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz
    541 votes

    A true game-changer in the world of animation, Shrek turned the traditional fairytale on its head with biting satire, sharp-witted humor, and unforgettable characters. Unafraid to take risks with its storytelling, the film reimagined well-known tropes by creating a lovably grumpy protagonist who ultimately learns valuable life lessons. The superb voice cast, led by Mike Myers and Eddie Murphy, highlights the power of strong performances in bringing animated characters to life. Shrek's cultural impact and influence on the genre cannot be overstated, securing its place as a beloved classic in the annals of 2000s animation.

  • Finding Nemo
    3
    Albert Brooks, Ellen DeGeneres, Alexander Gould
    464 votes

    Finding Nemo takes viewers on an underwater journey filled with adventure, colorful characters, and valuable life lessons. Seamlessly blending heartfelt emotion with dazzling animation, this heartwarming tale of a father's quest to locate his lost son struck a chord with audiences young and old. The engaging plot utilizes the familiar hero's journey trope but enriches it with memorable characters such as a forgetful fish named Dory and a group of rehabilitated sharks. Finding Nemo's popularity and critical acclaim in the 2000s undeniably solidified Pixar's status as a leading force in the animation genre.

  • Shrek 2
    4
    Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz
    353 votes

    Shrek 2 managed to build upon the success of its predecessor, further expanding the story of everyone's favorite ogre and his motley crew of friends. This sequel excels in character development and world-building, introducing new fan-favorite characters like Puss in Boots, while still maintaining the witty humor and charm of the original film. The film's clever use of fairytale tropes, lively animation, and top-notch vocal performances solidifies its status as one of the greatest animated sequels of the 2000s. Shrek 2 demonstrates that pushing boundaries and taking risks can be just as satisfying the second time around.

  • The Incredibles
    5
    Craig T. Nelson, Holly Hunter, Samuel L. Jackson
    429 votes

    The Incredibles offers a fresh take on the superhero genre, infusing it with relatable family dynamics and an engaging narrative. The film delves into the complexities of its central characters, exploring themes such as identity, family bonds, and societal expectations. The 2000s animation techniques employed in The Incredibles create a dynamic sense of visual storytelling, showcasing action-packed sequences alongside more subtle emotional moments. A balance of humor and heart, this groundbreaking superhero tale left an indelible mark on both the animation and superhero genres.

  • Ice Age
    6
    Ray Romano, John Leguizamo, Denis Leary
    345 votes

    Ice Age triumphed by blending humor, adventure, and heart to create an unforgettable journey set in prehistoric times. The compelling story follows an unlikely group of animals who band together to return a lost human baby to its family. Filled with memorable characters, heartwarming moments, and breathtaking animation, Ice Age exemplifies the best of the genre in the 2000s. With a strong cast featuring Ray Romano, John Leguizamo, and Denis Leary, this instant classic became a beloved film that spawned numerous sequels and an enduring fandom.

  • WALL-E
    7
    Ben Burtt, Elissa Knight, Jeff Garlin
    402 votes

    WALL-E stands out as a groundbreaking fusion of heartfelt storytelling, cutting-edge animation, and poignant social commentary. This adventurous tale of a lonely robot tasked with cleaning up Earth's mess showcases the power of non-verbal communication within the animation genre. The film explores themes such as environmentalism and humanity's dependence on technology, underlining the significance of messages that resonate with audiences of all ages. As a product of the 2000s, WALL-E pushed the limits of storytelling in animation, offering viewers a lush, visually stunning world paired with a thought-provoking narrative.

  • Madagascar
    8
    Ben Stiller, Chris Rock, David Schwimmer
    337 votes

    Madagascar is a prime example of how the animation genre flourished in the 2000s, as the film boasted a lively ensemble of memorable characters and a narrative that was both humorous and heartfelt. The story centers on four pampered animals who find themselves stranded in the unfamiliar wilderness and must learn to adapt to survive. The film's clever blend of adventure and comedy, along with its commentary on friendship, made for an entertaining treat for viewers of all ages. Madagascar ultimately left a lasting impression on audiences, sparking sequels and spin-offs that would entertain for years to follow.

  • Ratatouille
    9
    Patton Oswalt, Ian Holm, Lou Romano
    445 votes

    Ratatouille combined a unique storyline with top-notch animation to create a truly mouthwatering cinematic experience. This tale of a rat, Remy, who dreams of becoming a chef in a prestigious Parisian restaurant underscored the importance of following one's passions, even in the face of societal disapproval. The film wove together themes of family, friendship, and ambition, setting the stage for audience members of all ages to connect with Remy's journey. The sumptuous visuals served as an ode to French cuisine, adding a layer of depth to the already robust storytelling, and securing Ratatouille's place in the annals of 2000s animation.

  • Up
    10
    Ed Asner, Christopher Plummer, Jordan Nagai
    419 votes

    Up soars as one of the most innovative animated stories in cinema, breaking from tradition and embracing fresh narrative concepts. The film tells the beautifully poignant tale of an old man, Carl, who embarks on a fantastic journey to fulfill his late wife's dream of adventure. With its masterful ability to evoke emotions through its striking visuals and engaging characters, Up exemplifies the power of animation to transcend limitations of live-action storytelling. As a testament to the film's impact, the iconic image of the house being lifted by balloons has become an indelible part of 2000s pop culture.

  • Lilo & Stitch
    11
    Daveigh Chase, Christopher Sanders, Tia Carrere
    335 votes

    Lilo & Stitch charmed audiences with its heartfelt story of a young Hawaiian girl and her mischievous alien friend, offering an enchanting blend of humor, emotion, and adventure. The film's richly detailed animation brought the lush landscapes of Hawaii to life while incorporating themes of family, belonging, and friendship. With its endearing characters and unique premise, Lilo & Stitch showcased the versatility of the animation genre and inspired a generation of fans. The irresistible combination of human and alien characters proved to be a winning formula, leading to further adventures in subsequent sequels and TV series.

  • Cars
    12
    Owen Wilson, Paul Newman, Bonnie Hunt
    324 votes

    Cars revved its way into the hearts of audiences with its endearing characters, charming story, and impressive animation. The film's anthropomorphized automobiles took viewers on a heartwarming journey that emphasized the importance of friendship, humility, and slowing down to appreciate the world around us. With a standout voice cast led by Owen Wilson and Paul Newman, Cars showcased the incredible depth of emotion that can be achieved within the realm of animation. The film's enduring legacy and resonance with viewers cement it as one of the most beloved animated films of the 2000s.

  • Kung Fu Panda
    13
    Jack Black, Angelina Jolie, Jackie Chan
    314 votes

    Kung Fu Panda struck a chord with audiences by blending action, humor, and heart in a story about an unlikely hero who rises to greatness. Set in ancient China, the film's lush animation brought to life a panda named Po, who defies all expectations by becoming a martial arts master. The movie skillfully balanced comedic moments with more serious themes, such as self-belief and the power of perseverance. The powerhouse voice cast, led by Jack Black and Angelina Jolie, played an essential role in breathing life into this beloved animated classic.

  • The Emperor's New Groove
    14
    David Spade, John Goodman, Eartha Kitt
    313 votes

    The Emperor's New Groove distinguished itself with its unique blend of slapstick humor and lovable characters, setting it apart from other animated films of the 2000s. The story follows a selfish emperor, Kuzco, who is transformed into a llama and must rely on a humble peasant to help him regain his throne. The film's clever spin on traditional fairy tales, combined with its fast-paced wit and engaging visuals, made it an instant hit with audiences. The Emperor's New Groove remains a cult classic and a testament to the boundless creativity of the animation genre.

  • Over the Hedge
    15
    Bruce Willis, Garry Shandling, Steve Carell
    278 votes

    Over the Hedge offered viewers a hilarious and heartfelt look at suburban life from the perspective of a group of woodland creatures. Highlighting the challenges animals face in adapting to an ever-encroaching human world, the film struck a delicate balance between humor and environmental commentary. The movie's vibrant animation and memorable characters further demonstrated the mastery of the medium in the 2000s. With a star-studded voice cast featuring Bruce Willis, Steve Carell, and Garry Shandling, Over the Hedge made a lasting impact on the animated landscape.

  • The Princess and the Frog
    16
    Anika Noni Rose, Bruno Campos, Keith David
    249 votes

    The Princess and the Frog revitalized the classic fairytale genre by incorporating richly diverse characters, evocative New Orleans setting, and a toe-tapping jazz-infused soundtrack. The film's hand-drawn animation, a nostalgic throwback to Disney's earlier classics, beautifully brought to life the enchanting world of 1920s Louisiana. With its memorable characters, including Tiana - Disney's first African American princess, and the sinister voodoo villain Dr. Facilier, The Princess and the Frog showcases the best of the animation genre in the 2000s. The film's empowering message of hard work and determination earned it a cherished place among Disney's animated canon.

  • Coraline
    17
    Dakota Fanning, Teri Hatcher, Jennifer Saunders
    277 votes

    Coraline distinguishes itself within the realm of 2000s animation with its uniquely eerie visual style and compelling narrative. Blending haunting stop-motion animation with a richly imaginative story, Coraline tells the tale of a young girl who stumbles upon an alternate reality where her deepest desires are seemingly fulfilled. However, as the truth behind this parallel world becomes apparent, Coraline must rely on her bravery and resourcefulness to escape its dark grasp. The film's distinctive animation and captivating story make Coraline a beloved classic for fans of darker, more whimsical animated tales.

  • Brother Bear
    18
    Joaquin Phoenix, Jeremy Suarez, Jason Raize
    103 votes

    Brother Bear offers a heartfelt tale of transformation, self-discovery, and the power of empathy. Set in a beautifully rendered prehistoric North America, the story follows a young boy named Kenai who is turned into a bear and must learn to see the world through a different perspective. The film's themes of family, forgiveness, and acceptance struck a chord with audiences, while the stunning animation brought to life a breathtaking natural world. With a moving soundtrack by Phil Collins and a talented voice cast including Joaquin Phoenix, Brother Bear stands as a highlight of 2000s animation.

  • The Polar Express
    19
    Tom Hanks, Michael Jeter, Nona Gaye
    265 votes

    The Polar Express transports audiences to a wondrous world filled with adventure, magic, and holiday spirit. Showcasing groundbreaking animation techniques such as motion capture, the film creates a sense of realism within a fantastical setting, immersing viewers in the enchanting journey of a young boy's discovery of self-belief and the power of imagination. The talents of Tom Hanks, who voices several characters in the film, further elevate The Polar Express to a level of emotional resonance that few animated films can match. Its status as a holiday classic ensures that the magic of this unique film experience will endure for generations to come.

  • Bolt
    20
    John Travolta, Miley Cyrus, Susie Essman
    95 votes

    Bolt showcases the power of animation to depict extraordinary adventures while weaving in themes of friendship and self-discovery. The story of a canine television star who believes he possesses superpowers offers a fresh twist on the familiar hero's journey trope. The film's dynamic animation and engaging characters, voiced by talents such as John Travolta and Miley Cyrus, elevated Bolt to become a standout animated film of the 2000s. Ultimately, Bolt reminds viewers of the power of believing in oneself, with a heartwarming message that resonates with all ages.

  • Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs
    21
    Bill Hader, Anna Faris, James Caan
    207 votes

    Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs brought a beloved children's book to life with eye-popping visuals and a heartwarming story about the importance of staying true to oneself. The inventive premise of food raining from the sky captured audiences' imaginations and solidified the film as a standout amongst 2000s animation. With an engaging cast of characters and a unique visual style, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs offered a fresh perspective on the genre. Its success and enduring appeal paved the way for sequels and spin-offs, proving that innovation and risk-taking can pay off in the world of animated storytelling.

  • Happy Feet
    22
    Elijah Wood, Robin Williams, Brittany Murphy
    232 votes

    Happy Feet charmed audiences with its blend of adorable characters, catchy musical numbers, and an important environmental message. Set in Antarctica, this story about a tap-dancing penguin named Mumble highlights themes of individuality, self-expression, and the power of perseverance. The film's engaging narrative, stunning animation, and impressive voice cast, including Elijah Wood and Robin Williams, showcased the creative potential within the animation genre in the 2000s. Happy Feet's lasting impact on audiences speaks to its ability to entertain and inspire through emotive storytelling and unforgettable characters.

  • The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie
    23
    Tom Kenny, Bill Fagerbakke, Clancy Brown
    75 votes

    The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie successfully transitioned the wildly popular television series to the silver screen, treating fans to an uproarious adventure filled with humor, friendship, and a healthy dose of underwater hijinks. Maintaining the show's signature blend of zany comedy and heartfelt moments, the film delved into deeper themes of self-discovery and perseverance. With its colorful animation and unforgettable characters, The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie captured the essence of the iconic series while expanding upon its already beloved world. As a standout animated movie of the 2000s, it demonstrated that even undersea creatures could make a splash on the big screen.

  • Robots
    24
    Ewan McGregor, Halle Berry, Robin Williams
    86 votes

    Robots takes viewers on an adventure through a vibrantly animated world, populated exclusively by wacky mechanical beings. With its themes of friendship, determination, and teamwork, the film embodies the uplifting spirit that the animation genre can provide. The impressive vocal talents of Ewan McGregor and Robin Williams bring life and depth to the movie's unique cast of characters. As a standout animated film of the 2000s, Robots demonstrates the limitless possibilities of creativity when it comes to constructing imaginative and entertaining worlds.

  • The Simpsons Movie
    25
    Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright
    231 votes

    The Simpsons Movie expanded the iconic television series to the big screen, delighting fans with a fresh and timely narrative that preserved the show's signature wit and charm. The film seamlessly blended elements of satire, social commentary, and irreverent humor, reinforcing the longevity of one of the most beloved animated families of all time. The Simpsons Movie stayed true to the tropes and style that made the television series a pop culture icon while pushing the boundaries of storytelling. As a testament to the power of the animation genre, The Simpsons Movie solidified the enduring appeal and versatility of its beloved characters.

  • Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit
    26
    Peter Sallis, Ralph Fiennes, Helena Bonham Carter
    81 votes

    Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit brought the beloved claymation duo to the big screen in a charming tale filled with adventure, wit, and supernatural intrigue. The film showcased the distinct visual style of stop-motion animation, which lent a timeless quality to the classic storytelling elements of mystery and suspense. The endearing partnership between Wallace and his faithful canine companion Gromit struck a chord with audiences, affirming the universal appeal of their quirky British humor. As a unique entry in the 2000s animation landscape, The Curse of the Were-Rabbit solidified the legacy of its iconic characters for generations to come.

  • Chicken Run
    27
    Mel Gibson, Julia Sawalha, Miranda Richardson
    195 votes

    Chicken Run boldly set itself apart from other animated films of the 2000s with its unique stop-motion animation style and engrossing story of barnyard ingenuity. The film's witty humor and charming characters captured the hearts of audiences while tackling deeper themes of freedom and perseverance. Set on a dreary English chicken farm, the movie's underdog story of the plucky hens' fight for liberation captivated viewers young and old. As a distinctive entry in the realm of animated cinema, Chicken Run demonstrated the boundless potential of stop-motion animation and inventive storytelling.

  • Shark Tale
    28
    Will Smith, Robert De Niro, Renée Zellweger
    83 votes

    Shark Tale dove into the underwater world with an eclectic cast of sea creatures and a lively narrative that charmed audiences of all ages. The film's vibrant animation and catchy soundtrack complemented its themes of friendship, family, and finding one's path in life. With an all-star voice cast including Will Smith, Robert De Niro, and Renée Zellweger, Shark Tale showcased the power of animation to entertain and inspire through engrossing storytelling. As a standout animated film of the 2000s, it offered a fresh take on the possibilities of underwater adventures.

  • Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron
    29
    Matt Damon, James Cromwell, Daniel Studi
    79 votes

    Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron galloped into audiences' hearts with its breathtakingly beautiful animation and rousing tale of adventure, courage, and freedom. The film's unique perspective, told through the eyes of a majestic wild horse, captivated viewers with its evocative storytelling and sweeping vistas inspired by the American West. Spirit's inspiring journey, set to an emotive soundtrack by Bryan Adams, offered a poignant exploration of the bond between humans and animals. As an unforgettable animated masterpiece of the 2000s, Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron resonated with moviegoers across generations.

  • Monster House
    30
    Steve Buscemi, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Mitchel Musso
    76 votes

    Monster House distinguished itself within the realm of 2000s animation with its captivating blend of mystery, adventure, and childhood nostalgia. The film utilized groundbreaking performance capture technology to create a uniquely stylized and immersive viewing experience. With its intriguing story of a group of children unearthing the dark secrets of their creepy neighborhood house, Monster House deftly balanced humor and horror to create a thrilling and unforgettable animated tale. Its ability to entertain and enthrall audiences of all ages proved that animation could blur genre lines and push the boundaries of storytelling.

  • Monsters vs. Aliens
    31
    Reese Witherspoon, Hugh Laurie, Seth Rogen
    70 votes

    Monsters vs. Aliens offered up a hilarious and action-packed showdown between an unlikely team of misfit monsters and a dastardly alien invader. The film expertly balanced humor, heart, and thrilling set pieces to create a thoroughly engaging animated experience. With a dynamic voice cast including Reese Witherspoon, Seth Rogen, and Hugh Laurie, the movie breathed life into its quirky cast of characters and showcased the versatility of animation in the 2000s. Monsters vs. Aliens remains a beloved classic, proving that even the unlikeliest of heroes can save the day.

  • Ponyo
    32
    Cate Blanchett, Matt Damon, Liam Neeson
    180 votes

    Ponyo, a mesmerizing and enchanting animated film by renowned director Hayao Miyazaki, served as an ode to the wonders of childhood and the beauty of nature. This magical tale about the friendship between a young boy and a fish-princess showcased Miyazaki's signature hand-drawn animation style, which lent an ethereal quality to the imaginative story. The film's incorporation of Japanese folklore and mythology added a layer of depth and cultural significance to its presentation. Ponyo serves as a testament to the immeasurable power of animation to transport viewers to fantastical realms and explore universal themes.

  • Chicken Little
    33
    Zach Braff, Joan Cusack, Don Knotts
    73 votes

    Chicken Little marked Disney's first fully computer-animated feature without the involvement of Pixar, and it delighted audiences with its quirky characters, humor, and engagingly offbeat storyline. The film's reimagining of the classic children's tale brought fresh life to the well-known "sky is falling" narrative, demonstrating the power of animation to reinvent and expand upon familiar stories. With memorable characters like the titular Chicken Little, his lovable sidekick Fish Out of Water, and the fierce but misunderstood aliens, the movie showcased the diversity of animation in the 2000s. Chicken Little's blend of adventure and heart firmly established it as a standout film within the genre.

  • The Lion King 1½
    34
    Nathan Lane, Ernie Sabella, Julie Kavner
    68 votes

    The Lion King 1½ offered a fresh perspective on the beloved classic by providing a humorous, behind-the-scenes look at the events of the original film through the eyes of meerkat Timon and warthog Pumbaa. This inventive narrative approach, combined with the film's nostalgic animation style, allowed it to successfully build upon the timeless appeal of The Lion King. By delving deeper into the backstories of these iconic sidekicks, the movie breathed new life into a beloved tale while further exploring themes of friendship and loyalty. The Lion King 1½ remains a treasured gem of 2000s animation, proving that there are always more stories to tell within the world of established classics.

  • Open Season
    35
    Martin Lawrence, Ashton Kutcher, Gary Sinise
    78 votes

    Open Season brought a colorful cast of woodland creatures to life in a charming story that explored themes of friendship, acceptance, and teamwork. The film's dynamic animation style and engaging plot showcased the creative potential of the medium during the 2000s. With memorable characters like the domesticated bear Boog, his squirrelly sidekick Elliot, and the villainous hunter Shaw, Open Season proved that the animation genre could continue to offer fresh and engaging stories. The success and enduring appeal of Open Season paved the way for several sequels that further expanded the delightful world of these lovable creatures.

  • Surf's Up
    36
    Shia LaBeouf, Jeff Bridges, Zooey Deschanel
    74 votes

    Surf's Up made waves in the world of animation with its unique stylistic approach, presenting the story as a mockumentary that offered glimpses into the lives of competitive surfing penguins. The film's refreshing narrative and engaging visual style, which mimicked the look of live-action surf footage, provided a fresh take on the sports film trope. With an endearing cast of characters and a heartfelt message about the importance of self-belief, Surf's Up carved out a distinctive place within the 2000s animated canon. Its success and legacy serve as a testament to the power of innovation and creative risk-taking within the genre.

  • Dinosaur
    37
    D.B. Sweeney, Alfre Woodard, Ossie Davis
    63 votes

    Dinosaur transported viewers back to the prehistoric era with a groundbreaking fusion of live-action backgrounds and computer-animated characters, resulting in a visually stunning and immersive experience. The film's story of an orphaned iguanodon's journey to find a new home amid environmental upheaval underscored themes of endurance, compassion, and the power of unity. With its breathtaking visuals and emotionally resonant narrative, Dinosaur stood out as a technical and storytelling achievement within the realm of 2000s animation. The film's success and legacy attest to the limitless potential of animation to transport viewers on epic adventures spanning both time and space.

  • An Extremely Goofy Movie
    38
    Bill Farmer, Jason Marsden, Rob Paulsen
    55 votes

    An Extremely Goofy Movie brought the beloved duo of Goofy and his son Max back to the screen in a heartwarming story about navigating the challenges of college life and growing up. The film maintained the iconic humor and charm of the original while exploring more mature themes such as independence and the importance of maintaining family connections. Its heartfelt message and engaging animation made it a delightful addition to the 2000s animated repertoire. An Extremely Goofy Movie demonstrated the enduring appeal of its timeless characters and their escapades in the world of animation.

  • Garfield: The Movie
    39
    Breckin Meyer, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Stephen Tobolowsky
    55 votes

    Garfield: The Movie brought the iconic comic strip character to the big screen in a live-action and animation hybrid that captured the essence of the beloved orange cat. By seamlessly blending computer-animated characters with live-action settings, the film offered a unique visual experience for fans of all ages. The movie's blend of humor, adventure, and heart showcased the timeless appeal of Jim Davis's creation while exploring themes such as friendship and loyalty. Garfield: The Movie remains a treasured part of the 2000s animated landscape, highlighting the versatility of animation in capturing the magic of classic characters.

  • Osmosis Jones
    40
    Bill Murray, Molly Shannon, Chris Elliott
    51 votes

    Osmosis Jones offered a unique blend of live-action and animation that took viewers on an unforgettable journey inside the human body. The film's innovative use of animation allowed for an imaginative exploration of a microscopic world, replete with fascinating characters like the streetwise white blood cell Osmosis and his cold-pill sidekick Drix. By tackling themes such as teamwork, personal responsibility, and the importance of maintaining one's health, Osmosis Jones showcased the limitless potential of animation in the 2000s to inform and entertain viewers of all ages. The film's enduring appeal attests to the power of animation to spark curiosity and engage audiences with its inventive storytelling and captivating visuals.

  • Barnyard
    41
    Kevin James, Courteney Cox, Sam Elliott
    70 votes

    Barnyard brought a quirky cast of farm animals to life in a lively and engaging animated story that struck a chord with audiences young and old. The film's blend of wacky humor, adventure, and heart showcased the versatility of 2000s animation, offering viewers a fresh take on the familiar barnyard setting. With memorable characters like the carefree cow Otis, his father Ben, and the prank-loving farm animals, Barnyard delivered a compelling tale of self-discovery and the importance of stepping up in times of need. The movie's success and enduring appeal sowed the seeds for a spin-off TV series that further expanded the world of these lovable creatures.

  • Hoodwinked!
    42
    Anne Hathaway, Glenn Close, Andy Dick
    61 votes

    Hoodwinked! breathed new life into the classic fairy tale of Little Red Riding Hood with its unique narrative approach, which told the story from multiple perspectives. The film's clever use of humor, suspense, and adventure demonstrated the versatility of animation during the 2000s to reinvent familiar tales and push the boundaries of storytelling. With its engaging cast of characters and lively animation, Hoodwinked! offered a refreshing take on the genre and appealed to audiences across generations. The movie's lasting popularity underscores the power of animation to captivate viewers with its inventive storytelling and unforgettable characters.

  • Kronk's New Groove
    43
    Patrick Warburton, Tracey Ullman, Eartha Kitt
    51 votes

    Kronk's New Groove charmed fans of the original Emperor's New Groove with a delightful story that centered on the lovable sidekick Kronk and his amusing misadventures in seeking a proper life path. The film's vibrant animation and witty humor carried over from its predecessor, capturing the essence of the original while offering fresh narratives and character arcs. By delving deeper into the themes of self-discovery and finding happiness on one's own terms, Kronk's New Groove underscored the potential of animation to expand upon established tales and explore the lives of beloved characters. The film remains a beloved and entertaining entry in the realm of 2000s animation.

  • Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius
    44
    Megan Cavanagh, Mark DeCarlo, Debi Derryberry
    65 votes

    Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius rocketed onto the big screen with its innovative blend of computer-generated animation and a thrilling, action-packed story that captivated viewers of all ages. The movie showcased the power of animation during the 2000s to transport audiences into fantastical worlds filled with adventure, humor, and heart. With memorable characters like the brilliant titular protagonist and his quirky band of friends, Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius explored themes of friendship, self-reliance, and the boundless possibilities of human ingenuity. The film's success spawned a popular TV series that further expanded the universe of Nickelodeon's resident science whiz.

  • Sinbad: Legend of the Seven Seas
    45
    Brad Pitt, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Michelle Pfeiffer
    52 votes

    Sinbad: Legend of the Seven Seas set sail on an epic animated adventure that brought the legendary Arabian Nights character to life in a fresh and exciting way. The film expertly blended traditional animation with computer-generated imagery to create a visually rich and captivating experience. With its engaging story, memorable characters, and thrilling action sequences, Sinbad showcased the power of animation during the 2000s to transport audiences to far-off lands filled with wonder and excitement. The movie's enduring appeal attests to the ability of animation to inspire the imagination and transport viewers on unforgettable journeys.

  • Curious George
    46
    Will Ferrell, Drew Barrymore, David Cross
    55 votes

    Curious George brought the beloved children's book character to the big screen in a charming and engaging story that delighted both young and old audiences. The film's traditional hand-drawn animation style captured the spirit and innocence of the original stories while providing a visually rich and nostalgic experience. With its themes of friendship, discovery, and the importance of nurturing curiosity, Curious George showcased the power of animation to translate classic literary works into timeless cinematic treasures. The film's success and enduring appeal solidified the loveable monkey's status as a cherished icon within the world of 2000s animation.

  • The Ant Bully
    47

    The Ant Bully

    Zachery Tyler, Julia Roberts, Meryl Streep
    40 votes
  • Planet 51
    48
    Dwayne Johnson, Jessica Biel, Justin Long
    54 votes

    Planet 51 boldly traveled to the outer reaches of animated filmmaking with its engaging story of an astronaut who finds himself on a planet inhabited by aliens that eerily resemble 1950s Earth culture. The quirky premise, combined with the film's vibrant animation, allowed for a whimsical exploration of cultural misunderstanding and the importance of empathy and friendship. Audiences were captivated by the distinctive setting and colorful cast of characters that showcased the creative potential of animation in the 2000s. Planet 51's lasting appeal highlights the limitless possibilities within the animation genre to imagine new worlds and create thought-provoking narratives.

  • For the Birds
    49
    Ralph Eggleston
    35 votes

    For the Birds, a delightful Pixar short film, entertained audiences by presenting a simple yet hilarious tale of avian antics. The film's visually appealing animation and engaging characters emphasized the potential for concise storytelling within the animation medium during the 2000s. With its uplifting themes of acceptance and camaraderie, For the Birds offered a brief but memorable glimpse into a world where even the smallest creatures can find common ground. The enduring popularity of this universally beloved short film serves as a testament to the power of animation to enchant and amuse audiences of all ages.

  • Lilo & Stitch 2: Stitch Has a Glitch
    50
    Christopher Sanders, Dakota Fanning, Tia Carrere
    39 votes

    Lilo & Stitch 2: Stitch Has a Glitch continued the heartwarming story of the dynamic duo from the original film, delving further into the adventures and challenges they face together. Maintaining the unique visual style and emotional resonance of its predecessor, the film explored themes of family, loyalty, and overcoming personal hurdles. As a standout sequel in the world of 2000s animation, Lilo & Stitch 2 demonstrated the potential of the medium to expand upon established stories and develop deeper connections between beloved characters. The film's success and enduring charm solidified the legacy of Lilo and Stitch as a cherished animated pairing.

  • Star Wars: The Clone Wars
    51
    Matt Lanter, Ashley Eckstein, James Arnold Taylor
    43 votes

    Star Wars: The Clone Wars brought the beloved sci-fi saga to the realm of animation, offering a visually stunning and action-packed addition to the iconic franchise. The film expertly blended the classic Star Wars aesthetic with cutting-edge animation techniques, demonstrating the genre's versatility and potential during the 2000s. With its engaging storyline, memorable characters, and thrilling battles, The Clone Wars opened up the Star Wars universe to a new generation of fans while exploring themes of friendship, loyalty, and heroism. The movie's success spawned an acclaimed TV series that further expanded the rich tapestry of the Star Wars galaxy through the power of animation.

  • The Tale of Despereaux
    52
    Matthew Broderick, Dustin Hoffman, Emma Watson
    34 votes
  • Garfield: A Tail of Two Kitties
    53
    Bill Murray, Breckin Meyer, Jennifer Love Hewitt
    42 votes
  • Mulan II
    54
    Ming-Na, BD Wong, Mark Moseley
    36 votes
  • Mary and Max
    55
    Toni Collette, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Eric Bana
    31 votes
  • Boundin'
    56
    Bud Luckey
    28 votes
  • Titan A.E.
    57
    Matt Damon, Drew Barrymore, Bill Pullman
    29 votes
  • Looney Tunes: Back in Action
    58
    Brendan Fraser, Jenna Elfman, Steve Martin
    34 votes
  • Curious George 2: Follow That Monkey!
    59
    Tim Curry, Jerry Lewis, Matt Lauer
    30 votes
  • The Cat Returns
    60

    The Cat Returns

    Chizuru Ikewaki, Yoshihiko Hakamada, Kumiko Okae
    111 votes