The Best Animated Movies With Wolves

Ranker Film
Updated May 15, 2024 15 items
Ranked By
331 votes
116 voters

Wolves are one of the most popular animals in film. They're also one of the most popular animals in real life, and have been for thousands of years. Wolves have been featured in countless films, including animated ones. Some of these films feature wolves as main characters, while others feature them as antagonists or supporting characters.

Which are the best animated movies with wolves? This list includes all great movies that feature wolves (or wolf-like creatures) as a major part of the plot or storyline. Vote up your favorites below! And if you notice that some great animated movies with wolves are missing from this list, make sure to add them!

 

  • Balto
    1
    Miriam Margolyes, Lola Bates-Campbell, Kevin Bacon
    89 votes

    Centered on a Siberian husky-wolf hybrid, this captivating tale is inspired by the heroic true story of a sled dog who saves Nome, Alaska, from a diphtheria outbreak. With a heartwarming message of perseverance and embracing one's heritage, the film showcases the fascinating world of sled dog racing and brings to life the age-old bond between humans and wolves. Equal parts adventure and family drama, it's no wonder this movie stands as one of the all-time classics in the genre.

  • Balto II: Wolf Quest
    2
    Mark Hamill, Lacey Chabert, David Carradine
    26 votes

    The legacy of the heroic wolf-dog continues in this enthralling sequel, as Balto's headstrong daughter embarks on a quest to discover the truth about her wolf heritage. Along the way, she encounters various mystical beings and confronts the challenges of embracing her dual nature amidst the harsh realities of the wild. This enchanting adventure further establishes the franchise as a captivating exploration of strength, determination, and self-discovery.

  • Wolfwalkers
    3
    Sean Bean, Honor Kneafsey, Eva Whittaker
    52 votes

    This visually stunning and critically acclaimed film transports viewers to a magical version of 17th-century Ireland, where a young English girl discovers a secret tribe with the power to transform into wolves. As she befriends a free-spirited wolfwalker girl, they embark on a thrilling journey to save their people and challenge societal norms. Combining enchanting folklore with themes of friendship, bravery, and environmental awareness, this movie will undoubtedly capture the hearts and minds of audiences for generations.

  • Wolf Children
    4
    Aoi Miyazaki, Megumi Hayashibara, Bunta Sugawara
    26 votes

    Exploring themes of identity, belonging, and parenthood, this poignant tale follows a young widow raising her half-human, half-wolf children in modern-day Japan. As they grow, the siblings face the challenges of balancing their dual heritage while forging their unique paths in life. Heartfelt and visually arresting, this film stands as a beautiful testament to the power of love transcending differences.

  • Brother Bear
    5
    Joaquin Phoenix, Jeremy Suarez, Jason Raize
    41 votes

    In this heartwarming adventure, a young man's bond with a bear cub leads him to question his own prejudices toward the animal kingdom, including the fearsome pack of wolves they encounter along the way. These encounters serve to emphasize the profound life lessons about empathy, forgiveness, and understanding found throughout the movie. It's no wonder this touching narrative resonates deeply with audiences of all ages.

  • The Jungle Book
    6
    Phil Harris, Sebastian Cabot, Louis Prima
    26 votes

    In this perennial classic, a young boy raised by wolves in the Indian jungle must navigate the challenges of his wild home while fending off the villainous tiger Shere Khan. The wolves play a pivotal role in shaping the boy's upbringing and instilling important lessons about courage, loyalty, and the importance of family, both blood-related and found. This charming tale remains an enduring testament to the power of friendship and unity in the face of adversity.

  • Alpha and Omega
    7
    Justin Long, Hayden Panettiere, Christina Ricci
    46 votes

    In a world where wolves maintain order by adhering to a strict social hierarchy, this comedic yet touching film follows two mismatched wolves as they embark on an unexpected romance. The story balances lighthearted humor with deeper themes of loyalty, family, and unity within a diverse community. By blending eye-catching visuals and an unforgettable cast of characters, it's no surprise that this film has secured a memorable spot among wolf-themed animated features.

  • The Bad Guys
    8
    Sam Rockwell, Zazie Beetz, Marc Maron
    29 votes

    In this darkly comedic twist on the classic Big Bad Wolf archetype, a diverse group of animal outcasts sets out to change their reputation and prove that even villains can have a change of heart. The movie subverts expectations, delving into the complexities of its wolf protagonist and the factors that drive him to commit dastardly deeds. Filled with heart, humor, and redemption, it offers a refreshingly unique take on the well-trodden genre.

  • Alpha and Omega 2: A Howl-iday Adventure
    9
    Danny Glover, Chris Carmack, Vicki Lewis
    28 votes

    This holiday-themed sequel offers more entertaining escapades for fans of the original, as favorite characters embark on a festive mission to save their pack from encroaching humans. The film cleverly incorporates traditional winter celebrations into its wolf-centric world, blending family-friendly fun with a timely message about unity and cooperation. With its playful humor and heartfelt connections, it's a delightful addition to the world of wolf-inspired animation.

  • Princess Mononoke
    10
    Claire Danes, Gillian Anderson, Jada Pinkett Smith
    21 votes

    This epic masterpiece delves into the complex relationship between humans and nature, as seen through the eyes of a cursed warrior and the titular wolf-raised princess. Set in a fantastical realm filled with spirits and mythical creatures, the film examines the impact of human greed and industrialization on the natural world. Its striking visuals and powerful storytelling make it a standout example of animation as an art form, while the portrayal of wolves serves as a vital symbol of the fierce beauty of nature.

  • Balto III: Wings of Change
    11
    Sean Astin, Jodi Benson, Keith Carradine
    18 votes

    In this heartwarming conclusion to the beloved trilogy, Balto and his son Kodi must confront their own fears and prejudices as they face a new threat to their sled dog team—airplanes. As they learn to adapt to the changing world around them, the film explores themes of tradition, progress, and the eternal bond between humans and wolves. It's a fitting farewell to a story that has captured the hearts of audiences for generations.

  • Beauty and the Beast
    12
    Paige O'Hara, Robby Benson, Richard White
    27 votes

    While not primarily focused on wolves, this beloved tale showcases them as the dangerous yet misunderstood creatures lurking in the enchanted forest surrounding the Beast's castle. Their presence highlights the contrast between the cursed prince's outward appearance and his true nature, further enhancing the overarching theme of inner beauty. A timeless classic, this film's inclusion of wolves adds another layer of depth to the rich lore of the story.

  • 100% Wolf
    13
    Samara Weaving, Loren Gray, Jai Courtney
    18 votes

    When a young werewolf eager to prove his worth unexpectedly transforms into an adorable poodle, he must learn to embrace his newfound identity and save his pack from sinister forces. This thrilling journey of self-discovery and acceptance blends humor with heartfelt emotion, as the protagonist learns that true power lies not in physical strength but in courage, loyalty, and love. It's a charming tale that will delight fans of the genre and inspire them to reconsider the true meaning of bravery.

  • Kung Fu Panda 2
    14
    Jack Black, Angelina Jolie, Dustin Hoffman
    22 votes

    This action-packed sequel features a menacing pack of wolves led by the film's primary antagonist, who are bent on conquering China and thwarting the titular panda's efforts to achieve inner peace. The clever interplay between these formidable foes and the lovable heroes adds another layer of fun and excitement to the already thrilling adventure. With its humor, heart, and high-flying martial arts action, this film exceeds expectations and further solidifies its place among animated favorites.

  • Hoodwinked Too! Hood vs. Evil
    15
    Hayden Panettiere, Glenn Close, Patrick Warburton
    13 votes

    This irreverent twist on the classic fairy tale genre pits Little Red Riding Hood against a vengeful villain and her army of menacing wolves, as the heroine seeks to unravel the mystery behind the disappearance of her beloved Granny. The movie playfully subverts expectations as it explores the iconic Big Bad Wolf character in a new light, all while offering up plenty of laughs and thrills along the way. It's a fun and inventive romp that will leave viewers howling for more.