Top Animated Movies Of 2020: A Year In Review
Hey guys! Let's rewind the clock to 2020, a year that, amidst everything else, gifted us with some seriously awesome animated movies. If you're a fan of animation, you probably spent a good chunk of your time glued to the screen, enjoying the creativity and storytelling these films brought to the table. And if you're like me, you're always on the lookout for a good animated flick. So, let's dive into some of the top animated movies of 2020, exploring what made them special and why they still resonate with audiences today. We'll be looking at movies that are available in English. This is your go-to guide for a trip down memory lane, celebrating the artistry and entertainment of the animated world.
The Rise of Animated Movies in 2020
The year 2020, as we all know, was a rollercoaster. But even with all the challenges, the animation industry stood strong, delivering a fantastic array of movies that brought joy and escapism to people worldwide. Animated movies became even more crucial as a source of entertainment. With theaters closed or operating at limited capacity, many families turned to streaming services and at-home viewing. This shift highlighted the versatility and accessibility of animated films, proving they could thrive regardless of the circumstances. Major studios like Disney, Pixar, DreamWorks, and others adapted quickly, finding new ways to release their movies and reach audiences. This adaptability ensured that the pipeline of animated content remained robust, providing a steady stream of new movies. The year was marked by a blend of original stories and sequels, offering something for everyone. From heartwarming tales to action-packed adventures, animated movies continued to prove their ability to capture imaginations and touch hearts. The creativity and innovation in animation technology also flourished, with studios pushing the boundaries of what was possible. So, let’s revisit these cinematic gems and celebrate the magic they brought during a memorable year.
Soul: A Musical Journey of Self-Discovery
Soul, a Pixar masterpiece, is an animated movie that goes way beyond mere entertainment; it's a profound exploration of life's purpose and the things that truly matter. This movie follows Joe Gardner, a middle school music teacher who dreams of becoming a jazz musician. Just when his dreams seem within reach, a mishap sends him on a journey to the Great Before, a place where souls are formed before they go to Earth. The visuals are absolutely stunning, with vibrant colors and intricate details that bring the different realms to life. But it's not just about the eye-candy. Soul has a beautifully crafted story that deals with themes of passion, purpose, and the appreciation of life's little moments. The film's soundtrack, filled with jazz music, is a significant part of the experience, enhancing the emotional impact of the story. The movie’s universal themes of self-discovery and pursuing one’s dreams resonated deeply with audiences of all ages, making it a critical and commercial success. Its heartwarming narrative and stunning animation earned it numerous awards, including the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. This film is a reminder to cherish every day and find joy in the journey, making it a must-watch for anyone looking for inspiration and a good cry.
Onward: A Tale of Brotherhood and Magic
Onward is another standout animated movie from Pixar, delivering a heartwarming story about brotherhood, loss, and the magic of family. Set in a suburban fantasy world, the film follows two teenage elf brothers, Ian and Barley Lightfoot, who embark on a quest to bring their late father back for one more day. The visuals are top-notch, with a beautifully realized world that blends fantasy elements with a modern suburban setting. The story is a touching exploration of grief, family dynamics, and the bond between siblings. Onward is filled with humor, heart, and adventure, making it a delightful watch for audiences of all ages. The characters are well-developed, and their journey is filled with both challenges and moments of genuine connection. The movie also touches on the importance of believing in oneself and the power of love and family. Despite facing challenges, including the release of the movie during the pandemic, Onward connected with audiences through its emotional storytelling and stunning animation. It's a reminder of the importance of cherishing those we love and the magic that can be found in everyday life.
The Croods: A New Age: A Prehistoric Family Adventure
The Croods: A New Age is a sequel that brings back the lovable prehistoric family for another adventure, packed with humor, action, and vibrant visuals. This DreamWorks animated movie takes the Croods on a journey to find a new place to live, where they encounter the more advanced and evolved Betterman family. The clash of cultures and lifestyles creates a lot of comedic moments, and the movie delivers a lot of laughs. Visually, the film is stunning, with colorful landscapes and imaginative creatures that bring the prehistoric world to life. The story focuses on themes of family, adaptation, and acceptance. The Croods learn to navigate the challenges of living in a world that is changing, while the film also encourages the audience to embrace change and learn to accept others. The movie’s success demonstrates the enduring appeal of the Croods characters and their ability to connect with audiences. With its blend of humor, heart, and stunning visuals, The Croods: A New Age is a fun and entertaining watch for the whole family, providing an escape into a world of adventure and laughter.
Wolfwalkers: A Celtic Mythical Adventure
Wolfwalkers is an animated movie that stands out for its unique visual style and deeply moving story. This Cartoon Saloon film, set in a mystical Ireland, follows Robyn Goodfellowe, a young apprentice hunter, who befriends a girl named Mebh, who is a Wolfwalker. The animation style is distinctive, with a hand-drawn look that beautifully captures the mystical atmosphere of the story. The movie dives into themes of friendship, nature, and the clash between humanity and the wild. Wolfwalkers is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film, offering a unique viewing experience. It received critical acclaim for its artistic visuals and touching story. The movie's themes of environmentalism and the importance of respecting nature resonate with audiences, making it a thought-provoking and beautiful piece of art. Wolfwalkers has received numerous awards and accolades, solidifying its place as a significant achievement in animation.
Over the Moon: A Musical Journey to the Moon
Over the Moon is a vibrant musical adventure that tells the story of Fei Fei, a young girl who builds a rocket ship to travel to the moon and prove the existence of the legendary moon goddess, Chang'e. This animated movie from Netflix is a feast for the eyes, with stunning visuals and imaginative character designs. The music is catchy and uplifting, enhancing the emotional impact of the story. The movie explores themes of grief, family, and the power of belief. Over the Moon is a celebration of Chinese culture and mythology, bringing a unique perspective to the world of animated movies. Its heartwarming story and beautiful animation made it a hit with audiences of all ages, making it a memorable addition to the 2020 animated movie lineup.
Other Notable Animated Movies of 2020
Besides the movies mentioned above, 2020 also saw the release of other fantastic animated movies. Trolls World Tour brought the colorful and musical world of the Trolls back to the screen, while Scoob! offered a fresh take on the classic Scooby-Doo characters. These movies, along with several others, contributed to a diverse and exciting year for animation. Each film brought its unique style, storytelling, and themes, showcasing the wide range of creativity within the animation industry.
The Impact of 2020 Animated Movies
The animated movies of 2020 left a significant mark, providing comfort, joy, and inspiration during a challenging time. They demonstrated the power of storytelling and animation in connecting with audiences. These movies not only entertained but also explored important themes, sparking conversations and offering fresh perspectives. The success of these films showed the resilience and adaptability of the animation industry. Moreover, they highlighted the importance of animation as a medium for artistic expression and cultural representation. The impact of these movies is still felt today, as they continue to be enjoyed by audiences of all ages. They continue to be a source of entertainment and a reminder of the power of storytelling.
Conclusion: Celebrating the Animated Gems of 2020
So, there you have it, folks! A look back at some of the best animated movies of 2020. From the musical journey of Soul to the prehistoric adventure of The Croods, these films offered something special for everyone. Whether you're a long-time animation fan or just looking for a good movie to watch, these animated gems are well worth revisiting. Remember, these movies brought joy, inspiration, and entertainment to audiences around the world. So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and enjoy the magic of animation! Thanks for joining me on this trip down memory lane. I hope you found this review helpful and maybe even discovered some new favorites. Happy watching, and let's keep the love for animation alive! I hope you all enjoyed this review of some of the best animated movies of 2020. I hope this guide helps you find your next favorite movie to watch, and allows you to enjoy the wonderful world of animation, and the magic that animated films bring.