The 25 Best Movies Like 'Moana', Ranked By Fans
- Photo: How to Train Your Dragon116 VOTES
How To Train Your Dragon sets in motion a heartwarming saga of friendship and trust between a Viking boy named Hiccup and a feared dragon, Toothless. It explores themes of courage, self-discovery and challenging societal norms through its captivating narrative. The film boasts an all-star voice cast including Jay Baruchel as Hiccup and Gerard Butler as Stoick the Vast, his father. Its influence on the genre is unquestionable with its successful blend of humor, emotion, and action-packed sequences.
How To Train Your Dragon shares Moana's emphasis on friendship, bravery, and mysticism.
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- #159 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #10 of 452 onThe 400+ Best Animated Kids Movies
- 215 VOTES
Set against the backdrop of medieval Scotland, Brave brings forth a compelling tale about Princess Merida who defies tradition to forge her own path in life. The film beautifully captures themes such as female empowerment, familial love, and personal growth through its vibrant animation style. With Kelly Macdonald voicing Merida’s strong-willed character alongside Emma Thompson as Queen Elinor; it has left an indelible mark on pop culture by redefining princess narratives.
Brave resonates with Moana's themes of girl power, personal bravery, and selflessness.
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- #27 of 155 onThe 150+ Best Classic Tween Movies
- #38 of 452 onThe 400+ Best Animated Kids Movies
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- Photo: Focus Features38 VOTES
Immersed in Japanese folklore and mythology, Kubo and The Two Strings offers viewers a visually stunning exploration into a world filled with magic and mystery. The plot revolves around Kubo, a young boy with magical powers who embarks on an epic quest to defeat vengeful spirits from his past. Themes of bravery, family bonds, and self-discovery resonate throughout the film. Charlize Theron and Matthew McConaughey lend their voices to key characters enhancing this cinematic masterpiece's appeal.
Kubo and The Two Strings takes viewers to a wonderful adventure inspired by Japanese folklore, similar to Moana's exploration of cultural mythology.
- #139 of 452 onThe 400+ Best Animated Kids Movies
- #162 of 200 onThe 195+ Greatest Adventure Movies
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- Photo: Minions: The Rise of Gru47 VOTES
Minions: The Rise of Gru takes audiences on a journey back in time to the 1970s, revealing the backstory of everyone's favorite villainous henchmen. This animated adventure focuses on young Gru's dream of becoming the world's greatest supervillain. Alongside his loyal Minions, Gru plans a heist to prove his worth to his idols, the Vicious 6. With comedic voice performances from Steve Carell as Gru and Taraji P. Henson as Belle Bottom, this film contributes an amusing prequel to the Despicable Me franchise.
Minions: The Rise of Gru incorporates humor, similar to that of Moana, into an adventurous tale.
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- 57 VOTES
Taking audiences into a magical realm of eternal winter, Frozen tells the tale of two royal sisters Elsa (Idina Menzel) and Anna (Kristen Bell) whose relationship is tested when Elsa's icy powers trap their kingdom in perpetual frost. A heartwarming story about love and acceptance ensues as Anna embarks on an adventure to bring back summer. The film's iconic song "Let it Go" has not only won numerous awards but also etched itself into popular culture forevermore.
Frozen, echoing Moana's storytelling, uses music to enhance the emotional peaks of the adventure.
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- #209 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- Photo: The Sea Beast612 VOTES
The Sea Beast is an exhilarating animated adventure that takes its audience on a thrilling journey across the world's uncharted oceans. The plot follows a legendary sea monster hunter searching for the mythical creature he has devoted his life to finding. As the story unfolds, themes of obsession, redemption, and courage are masterfully woven into the narrative. This film features an impressive cast including Karl Urban who lends his voice to the determined protagonist.
The Sea Beast shares similarities with Moana as both films explore heroic journeys on the water.
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- Photo: Nimona713 VOTES
Nimona presents a unique blend of science fiction and fantasy in an animated format that captivates both children and adults alike. It tells the story of a young shapeshifter named Nimona who partners with a mad scientist to expose the corruption within their kingdom. With underlying themes of friendship, morality, and acceptance, this movie challenges conventional notions of heroism and villainy. Notably, Chloe Grace Moretz provides her voice talent for Nimona adding depth to this complex character.
Nimona captivates audiences with its animated blend of adventure and drama, reminiscent of Moana's captivating storytelling.
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- #302 of 452 onThe 400+ Best Animated Kids Movies
- 85 VOTES
In Elemental, viewers are transported to a world where four children control the elements: fire, water, earth, and air. Each character must learn to master their power while balancing everyday life - schoolwork included! As they face challenges both mundane and magical, they learn valuable lessons about teamwork and responsibility. Though it might not have household names in its cast list, its unique premise has left it worthy of mention among animated adventures.
Elemental, another classic animation from Disney, echoes Moana's themes of nature, friendship, and responsibility.
More Elemental - Photo: The Bad Guys95 VOTES
The Bad Guys, based on Aaron Blabey’s best-selling book series, is a unique twist on traditional hero-villain dynamics in animation. It follows five notorious bad guys - Mr. Wolf, Mr. Snake, Mr. Piranha, Mr. Shark and Ms. Tarantula - who decide they want more out of life than being criminals and aim to become forces for good instead. Sam Rockwell voices the leader, Mr.Wolf while Awkwafina brings her charisma to Ms.Tarantula; together they create a captivating story that challenges stereotypes about good and evil.
The Bad Guys challenges traditional narratives, akin to Moana's unconventional storytelling, leading to an empowering tale of self-discovery.
More The Bad Guys- #240 of 452 onThe 400+ Best Animated Kids Movies
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- Photo: Wreck-It Ralph105 VOTES
Wreck-It Ralph, Disney's innovative exploration into the digital realm of video games, presents Ralph - a villain yearning to be a hero. Voiced by John C. Reilly, Ralph ventures beyond his game arcade in search of validation only to create havoc in other video games. With Sarah Silverman voicing Vanellope von Schweetz –a glitchy racer from candy-themed racing game Sugar Rush–the movie cleverly highlights themes such as identity crisis and societal acceptance while leaving significant imprints on pop culture.
Wreck-It Ralph, echoing Moana's creativity, tells an exciting tale of self-discovery.
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- #240 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #17 of 452 onThe 400+ Best Animated Kids Movies
Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole takes flight into the mystical world of owls, where young Soren (Jim Sturgess) embarks on a quest to save his owl kingdom from the evil Pure Ones. This epic tale, based on Kathryn Lasky's beloved books, presents an ensemble cast including Helen Mirren and Geoffrey Rush. With its stunning visuals and themes about courage and heroism, this film has carved its niche within animated fantasy adventures.
Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole dives into mysticism, akin to Moana's fantastical setting, exploring themes of friendship and bravery.
- #343 of 447 onThe 400+ Best Animated Kids Movies
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- Photo: Raya and the Last Dragon1215 VOTES
In Raya And The Last Dragon, viewers are taken on a spectacular journey through the mystical lands of Kumandra, a place where humans and dragons once lived in harmony. This animated masterpiece revolves around Raya, voiced by Kelly Marie Tran, who embarks on an epic quest to find the last dragon Sisu (Awkwafina) to save her kingdom from the Druun, sinister entities threatening their world. The film explores themes of trust and unity while delivering high octane action sequences that have left a mark in the annals of animation cinema.
Raya And The Last Dragon, akin to Moana's exploration of love and trust, follows a brave female protagonist who goes on a great journey.
- #121 of 155 onThe 150+ Best Classic Tween Movies
- #98 of 200 onThe 195+ Greatest Adventure Movies
- #6 of 56 onThe Best New Kids' Movies Of The Last Few Years
- Photo: The Mitchells vs. the Machines1310 VOTES
The Mitchells vs. The Machines is a thrilling roller-coaster ride that blends family dynamics with sci-fi adventure. This story follows Katie Mitchell, impressively voiced by Abbi Jacobson, and her quirky family as they strive to save humanity from a robotic apocalypse triggered by PAL (Olivia Colman), an AI developed by tech guru Mark Bowman (Eric Andre). With its unique animation style and underlying theme about technology's role in our lives, this movie has made an indelible impact on pop culture.
The Mitchells vs. The Machines tells an adventurous family tale, similar to Moana's emphasis on familial relationships.
- Photo: Anastasia144 VOTES
Anastasia, from Fox Animation Studios, recounts an alternative history mingled with Russian mythology surrounding Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna of Russia. Voiced by Meg Ryan, Anastasia suffers from amnesia, and with the help of two con men (John Cusack and Kelsey Grammer), she embarks on a journey to discover her true identity. With its rich animation, haunting music, and complex themes of identity and family, Anastasia has claimed a unique space in the realm of animated films.
Anastasia's incorporation of Russian mythology and compelling music, resonates with Moana's storytelling.
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- #340 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- Photo: Lilo & Stitch / Buena Vista Pictures Distribution154 VOTES
Lilo & Stitch offers an interstellar experience grounded in Hawaiian culture. Disney presents this heartwarming bond between Lilo (Daveigh Chase), a young Hawaiian girl, and Stitch (Chris Sanders), an extraterrestrial creature disguised as her dog. This out-of-this-world adventure explores themes like family or “Ohana,” acceptance and redemption which resonated deeply with audiences worldwide.
Lilo & Stitch explores Hawaiian culture, similar to Moana's cultural richness, with an unforgettable adventure.
- Photo: Turning Red167 VOTES
Turning Red, a vibrant animation from Pixar, introduces audiences to the spirited world of Mei Lee, a 13-year-old girl navigating the challenging terrain of adolescence. In this coming-of-age tale, Mei undergoes an unusual transformation into a giant red panda whenever she experiences heightened emotions, a metaphorical representation of puberty and teenage angst. With Sandra Oh lending her voice to Ming, Mei's overbearing mother, the film explores themes of self-acceptance and the complexities of parent-child relationships.
Turning Red is a heart-warming coming-of-age tale, similar to Moana's exploration of self-discovery.
- Photo: Paramount Pictures178 VOTES
Rise of the Guardians, inspired by William Joyce’s The Guardians of Childhood book series, presents a band of legendary figures like Santa Claus (Alec Baldwin), Easter Bunny (Hugh Jackman), Tooth Fairy (Isla Fisher), and Jack Frost (Chris Pine) in a light never seen before. They unite to fight the Nightmare King Pitch Black who threatens children's hopes and dreams worldwide. This DreamWorks Animation film offers an innovative take on folklore figures, making it a significant addition to the genre.
Rise of the Guardians presents a unique take on folklore themes, similar to Moana's exploration of cultural myths contributing to the animated adventure genre.
- #92 of 452 onThe 400+ Best Animated Kids Movies
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- Photo: Quest for Camelot184 VOTES
In contrast, Quest for Camelot embarks on a medieval journey infused with Arthurian legends. The plot revolves around Kayley, a brave young maiden who dreams of becoming a knight like her late father. Gary Oldman lends his voice to the villainous Ruber seeking control over Camelot. Aided by blind hermit Garrett and two-headed dragon Devon and Cornwall voiced by Eric Idle and Don Rickles respectively, Kayley's quest becomes an enduring lesson in courage and friendship.
Quest for Camelot's usage of Arthurian legends, will resonate with fans of Moana's adventurous spirit.
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- Photo: Luca194 VOTES
Set along the beautiful Italian Riviera, Luca is a heartwarming Pixar tale about friendship and acceptance with undertones of adolescence self-discovery. Luca Paguro (voiced by Jacob Tremblay) is a sea monster boy who experiences living in human form during an unforgettable summer with new-found friend Alberto (Jack Dylan Grazer). While it offers stunningly vivid visuals typical of Pixar films, its strength lies in its simple yet profound narrative that resonates across all ages.
Luca is another heart-warming animated adventure, resonating with Moana's themes, taking place by beautiful blue waters.
More Luca - 206 VOTES
Big Hero 6, another gem from Disney Animation Studios, merges superhero action with heartfelt emotionality through its protagonist Hiro Hamada and his inflatable robot Baymax. Set in the futuristic cityscape of San Fransokyo, it focuses on Hiro’s transformation from robotics prodigy to high-tech hero after his brother Tadashi’s tragic death. With Scott Adsit giving life to lovable Baymax, the film balances high-octane action with themes of loss, healing, and friendship.
Big Hero 6 blends action with thoughtful characters, similar to the emotional depth found in Moana.
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- Photo: Spirited Away / Studio Ghibli216 VOTES
Spirited Away is a masterpiece from Hayao Miyazaki that has left an indelible mark on animation cinema. It tells the story of Chihiro, a young girl who finds herself trapped in a mystical realm working in a bathhouse for spirits to free her parents transformed into pigs. With unforgettable characters like No-Face and Haku, it delicately explores themes such as environmentalism, greed, and coming-of-age. The Oscar-winning film not only put Studio Ghibli on the global map but also elevated the status of anime internationally.
Spirited Away stands as the gold standard in animation, akin to Moana's impact, with compelling characters and timeless storylines.
More Spirited Away- #391 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
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- #37 of 452 onThe 400+ Best Animated Kids Movies
- Photo: The Adventures of Tintin2215 VOTES
The Adventures of Tintin is an exhilarating voyage into the world of young reporter Tintin (Jamie Bell) and his loyal dog Snowy as they uncover secrets behind a sunken ship carrying an explosive secret. Directed by Steven Spielberg, this 3D animated adventure features Captain Haddock (Andy Serkis) and nefarious Sakharine (Daniel Craig) in pivotal roles. The film is a tribute to the golden age of high-sea adventures and has contributed significantly to the genre with its groundbreaking motion-capture animation.
The Adventures of Tintin offers a water-bound adventure, reminiscent of Moana's exploration theme.
- #318 of 452 onThe 400+ Best Animated Kids Movies
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- 2310 VOTES
Pocahontas, Disney's animated adventure, is a tale that weaves history and fantasy together. It narrates the story of a Native American woman who bridges two worlds. The title character, voiced by Irene Bedard, encounters an Englishman named John Smith (Mel Gibson), challenging her tribe’s traditional distrust of outsiders. The movie explores themes of acceptance and respect for nature, leaving a significant impact on pop culture with its iconic song “Colors of the Wind.”
Pocahontas, another great Disney animation, echoes Moana's cultural narrative and features an unforgettable soundtrack.
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- Photo: Wish Dragon242 VOTES
Wish Dragon is an exhilarating ride into Chinese folklore, presenting a modern twist to the classic genie-in-a-bottle trope. This Sony Pictures Animation film introduces Din (Jimmy Wong), a working-class college student who stumbles upon Long (John Cho), a cynical but all-powerful dragon capable of granting wishes. The narrative delves into themes of friendship, personal sacrifice, and the value of simple pleasures over materialistic desires.
Wish Dragon, offers an adventurous glimpse at Chinese folklore, reminiscent of Moana's cultural exploration highlighting the power of friendship and bravery.
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- Photo: The Last Mimzy254 VOTES
The Last Mimzy incorporates elements of science fiction into its narrative. The plot follows siblings Emma and Noah who discover a mysterious box filled with curious toys –the Mimzy– that possess extraordinary powers. This discovery leads them on an adventurous journey to save humanity’s future. Joely Richardson and Timothy Hutton star as their parents while Rainn Wilson plays the eccentric science teacher. The film subtly interweaves themes of environmental preservation and the power of innocence in effecting change.
The Last Mimzy, akin to Moana's fantastical elements, tells a story of teamwork and adventure.
