The 25 Best Animated Movies on Netflix [February 2021]
The best kind of animated movies can tell stories that would be impossible to tell through regular live-action films. They can bring to life creatures that don’t exist in the real world, or create extravagant worlds without spending millions of dollars. Animation allows us to experience fantasy worlds, epic battles, and events that could never happen in reality. You’ll encounter talking animals, dancing teapots, and the classic sight of anvils falling from the sky. Animation often brings humor, making us laugh until tears stream down our faces. And sometimes, watching animated films is about appreciating the incredible artistry of the animators, whether they’re working with traditional 2D cel animation or cutting-edge 3D CGI animation.
This list features the 25 best animated movies currently available to stream on Netflix. You’ll find stories about adorable baby siblings and anthropomorphic animals teaming up, as well as movies with more mature themes that depict worlds devastated by giant monsters or teenage girls searching for their parents in a dystopian, steampunk Paris. There’s something for everyone on this list. And if you’re looking for wholesome entertainment to enjoy with your entire family, don’t forget to check out our selection of the best family-friendly movies on Netflix.
The Little Prince
Directed By: Mark Osborne
Based on the beloved novella first published in France in 1943, The Little Prince is a 3D animated film that combines modern technology and stop-motion animation to bring this timeless bedtime story to life. The movie follows a young girl who lives a rigid life dictated by her strict mother. However, everything changes when she befriends her elderly next-door neighbor, a retired aviator. Through the aviator’s storytelling, the girl discovers the enchanting tale of the Little Prince, a young boy who resides in space on an asteroid. Praised for its breathtaking animation style, The Little Prince successfully captures the essence of the original novella while adding a contemporary twist. And since it’s a Netflix Original, you can rest assured that it will always be available on the platform.
The Breadwinner
Directed By: Nora Twomey
Produced by Cartoon Saloon and executive produced by Angelina Jolie, The Breadwinner is Nora Twomey’s second directorial feature. The film, released in 2017, earned a nomination for Best Animated Feature at the 2018 Academy Awards. Set in Kabul, Afghanistan under Taliban rule, The Breadwinner tells the story of Parvana, a young girl who lives with her father Nurullah. After Nurullah is unjustly arrested by the Taliban, leaving Parvana’s family without a male member, they are forbidden from leaving their house. In order to support her family, Parvana disguises herself as a boy named Aatish. The film received critical acclaim for its powerful storytelling and stunning animation.
Welcome to my list of animated films on Netflix!
First up is Godzilla: Planet of the Monsters, a Netflix Original. It’s a movie made specifically for adults from Toho Animation. This film is the 32nd in the Godzilla franchise and the first-ever animated feature. It starts in 1999 when huge monsters start appearing all over the world. Humans try to defeat Godzilla with Mechagodzilla, but it doesn’t work. We’re then forced to leave Earth and go to Tau Ceti e. The movie shows what happens after we make that decision, including mutiny, conflicts about religion, and how Godzilla causes the Earth to change. You can watch it with English subtitles or in an English dub. This is the first film in a trilogy, and the sequel will be released in May 2018 in Japan and on Netflix later on.
Next, we have Gnome Alone. It’s a new Netflix original animated film by the director of The Nut Job. This movie is about a war between Gnomes and Troggs, strange creatures who live underground and want to eat the Earth. The story follows a girl named Chloe who moves into a house filled with garden gnomes that come to life and fight against the Troggs. Chloe and her nerdy friend Liam find themselves in the middle of this battle. Chloe has to choose between fighting against the Earth’s enemies or fitting in as a popular middle school student. It’s a tough choice for her.
Now let’s talk about Mary and the Witch’s Flower, the first film from Studio Ponoc and the third film by Hiromasa Yonebayashi. It’s a Studio Ghibli-style movie. The story is about a girl named Mary Smith who finds a mysterious flower called “fly-by-night.” This flower gives her the power to become a witch for one night. Mary is living a boring life with her Great Aunt Charlotte in England, but this new power gives her hope for some fun. She joins a magical academy, but soon realizes that there is something dark going on beneath the surface. Mary must fix her mistake and make things right.
Then we have Duck Duck Goose, a Netflix original film directed by Christopher Jenkins. It’s a collaboration between the United States and China. The movie is about a Chinese goose named Peng whose flock is migrating. Unfortunately, Peng is left behind by his flock. He then meets two ducklings who are separated from their mother. The three of them go on a journey to find their place in the world. This film has a great voice cast, including Zendaya, Greg Proops, Stephen Fry, Carl Reiner, and Reggie Watts. Originally planned for theaters, it’s now a Netflix original, so you can stream it whenever you want.
Netflix’s first fully-original animated feature film is called Next Gen. It takes place in the futuristic city of Grainland and follows a girl named Mai Su. Her parents get divorced, and her father leaves the family. Her mother uses advanced robots known as Q-Bots to cope with the divorce. Mai feels alone and isolated as robots start taking over everything. Soon, she encounters a rare robot named 7723 who escapes from captivity. Mai becomes responsible for taking care of this robot. They go on an action-packed adventure with an amazing voice cast. It’s a treat to watch.
If you’re a fan of Pokemon, you’ll love Pokemon the Movie: I Choose You! It’s an adaptation of the original Pokemon pilot. The movie follows a young boy named Ash Ketchum who becomes a Pokemon trainer on his birthday. However, he arrives late and finds out that all the Pokemon have been taken by other trainers. Ash ends up getting a Pikachu as his first Pokemon. They become best friends and travel the world together. This movie has some surprises and new characters for fans of the original anime.
Next is The Princess and the Frog, a Disney animated film. It’s about a hardworking and ambitious girl named Tiana who dreams of opening her own restaurant in New Orleans. Her dream takes a turn when she meets Prince Naveen, who has been turned into a frog. By a twist of fate, Tiana also turns into a frog. Together, they go on an adventure in the bayous to find a way to break the spell. This movie is special because it was the last 2D film created by Disney Animation before they switched to 3D animation.
If you were a fan of the animated show Invader Zim, you’ll enjoy Invader Zim: Enter the Florpus. This Netflix special is set years after the original show’s cancellation. When Zim and GIR return to Earth, Dib Membrane, Zim’s archenemy, confronts them. However, Dib is not in great shape to oppose Zim anymore. Zim has forgotten his Phase 2 invasion plan, and chaos ensues. This film features many original cast members and has a great story for fans of the show.
Do you remember the show Rocko’s Modern Life? Well, Rocko’s Modern Life: Static Cling is a continuation of that show from the 90s. After spending time in space, Rocko, Heffer, and Filburt are brought back to society 23 years later. They find themselves in a modern O-Town filled with smartphones, energy drinks, and coffee shops. While Heffer and Filburt embrace the 21st century, Rocko wants to bring his favorite TV show, The Fatheads, back on the air. This movie is a nostalgia trip for fans of the original show.
Last but not least, we have The Croods. This movie is about a prehistoric family living in a dangerous time. When a more evolved caveman arrives and warns them about the end of the world, they have to trust him. The Croods go on an adventure to survive and find a new home. This film has a great cast and even led to a TV series called Dawn of the Croods on Netflix. A sequel is also coming out in December 2020.
Finally, we have Rugrats: The Movie, the first of three theatrical films based on the popular Nicktoon. This film introduces Dil Pickles, Tommy’s baby brother. When the babies get tired of Dil’s crying and need for attention, they decide to take him back to the hospital. But things don’t go as planned, and they end up lost in the woods. They have to find Dil and make their way back home. This movie started a trend of Nicktoon movies and spin-off series.
If you enjoyed Rugrats: The Movie, you should definitely watch its sequel, Rugrats in Paris. This film focuses on Chucky and takes the whole gang on a vacation to Paris. They encounter a villain and have to stop her plans. Chucky’s dad also finds himself in a surprising situation. This is the best film in the trilogy and a must-watch for fans of the Rugrats series.
Then we have Duck Duck Goose, a Netflix original film directed by Christopher Jenkins. It’s a collaboration between the United States and China. The movie is about a Chinese goose named Peng whose flock is migrating. Unfortunately, Peng is left behind by his flock. He then meets two ducklings who are separated from their mother. The three of them go on a journey to find their place in the world. This film has a great voice cast, including Zendaya, Greg Proops, Stephen Fry, Carl Reiner, and Reggie Watts. Originally planned for theaters, it’s now a Netflix original, so you can stream it whenever you want.
Netflix’s first fully-original animated feature film is called Next Gen. It takes place in the futuristic city of Grainland and follows a girl named Mai Su. Her parents get divorced, and her father leaves the family. Her mother uses advanced robots known as Q-Bots to cope with the divorce. Mai feels alone and isolated as robots start taking over everything. Soon, she encounters a rare robot named 7723 who escapes from captivity. Mai becomes responsible for taking care of this robot. They go on an action-packed adventure with an amazing voice cast. It’s a treat to watch.
If you’re a fan of Pokemon, you’ll love Pokemon the Movie: I Choose You! It’s an adaptation of the original Pokemon pilot. The movie follows a young boy named Ash Ketchum who becomes a Pokemon trainer on his birthday. However, he arrives late and finds out that all the Pokemon have been taken by other trainers. Ash ends up getting a Pikachu as his first Pokemon. They become best friends and travel the world together. This movie has some surprises and new characters for fans of the original anime.
Next is The Princess and the Frog, a Disney animated film. It’s about a hardworking and ambitious girl named Tiana who dreams of opening her own restaurant in New Orleans. Her dream takes a turn when she meets Prince Naveen, who has been turned into a frog. By a twist of fate, Tiana also turns into a frog. Together, they go on an adventure in the bayous to find a way to break the spell. This movie is special because it was the last 2D film created by Disney Animation before they switched to 3D animation.
If you were a fan of the animated show Invader Zim, you’ll enjoy Invader Zim: Enter the Florpus. This Netflix special is set years after the original show’s cancellation. When Zim and GIR return to Earth, Dib Membrane, Zim’s archenemy, confronts them. However, Dib is not in great shape to oppose Zim anymore. Zim has forgotten his Phase 2 invasion plan, and chaos ensues. This film features many original cast members and has a great story for fans of the show.
Do you remember the show Rocko’s Modern Life? Well, Rocko’s Modern Life: Static Cling is a continuation of that show from the 90s. After spending time in space, Rocko, Heffer, and Filburt are brought back to society 23 years later. They find themselves in a modern O-Town filled with smartphones, energy drinks, and coffee shops. While Heffer and Filburt embrace the 21st century, Rocko wants to bring his favorite TV show, The Fatheads, back on the air. This movie is a nostalgia trip for fans of the original show.
Last but not least, we have The Croods. This movie is about a prehistoric family living in a dangerous time. When a more evolved caveman arrives and warns them about the end of the world, they have to trust him. The Croods go on an adventure to survive and find a new home. This film has a great cast and even led to a TV series called Dawn of the Croods on Netflix. A sequel is also coming out in December 2020.
Finally, we have Rugrats: The Movie, the first of three theatrical films based on the popular Nicktoon. This film introduces Dil Pickles, Tommy’s baby brother. When the babies get tired of Dil’s crying and need for attention, they decide to take him back to the hospital. But things don’t go as planned, and they end up lost in the woods. They have to find Dil and make their way back home. This movie started a trend of Nicktoon movies and spin-off series.
If you enjoyed Rugrats: The Movie, you should definitely watch its sequel, Rugrats in Paris. This film focuses on Chucky and takes the whole gang on a vacation to Paris. They encounter a villain and have to stop her plans. Chucky’s dad also finds himself in a surprising situation. This is the best film in the trilogy and a must-watch for fans of the Rugrats series.
If you’re a fan of Pokemon, you’ll love Pokemon the Movie: I Choose You! It’s an adaptation of the original Pokemon pilot. The movie follows a young boy named Ash Ketchum who becomes a Pokemon trainer on his birthday. However, he arrives late and finds out that all the Pokemon have been taken by other trainers. Ash ends up getting a Pikachu as his first Pokemon. They become best friends and travel the world together. This movie has some surprises and new characters for fans of the original anime.
Next is The Princess and the Frog, a Disney animated film. It’s about a hardworking and ambitious girl named Tiana who dreams of opening her own restaurant in New Orleans. Her dream takes a turn when she meets Prince Naveen, who has been turned into a frog. By a twist of fate, Tiana also turns into a frog. Together, they go on an adventure in the bayous to find a way to break the spell. This movie is special because it was the last 2D film created by Disney Animation before they switched to 3D animation.
If you were a fan of the animated show Invader Zim, you’ll enjoy Invader Zim: Enter the Florpus. This Netflix special is set years after the original show’s cancellation. When Zim and GIR return to Earth, Dib Membrane, Zim’s archenemy, confronts them. However, Dib is not in great shape to oppose Zim anymore. Zim has forgotten his Phase 2 invasion plan, and chaos ensues. This film features many original cast members and has a great story for fans of the show.
Do you remember the show Rocko’s Modern Life? Well, Rocko’s Modern Life: Static Cling is a continuation of that show from the 90s. After spending time in space, Rocko, Heffer, and Filburt are brought back to society 23 years later. They find themselves in a modern O-Town filled with smartphones, energy drinks, and coffee shops. While Heffer and Filburt embrace the 21st century, Rocko wants to bring his favorite TV show, The Fatheads, back on the air. This movie is a nostalgia trip for fans of the original show.
Last but not least, we have The Croods. This movie is about a prehistoric family living in a dangerous time. When a more evolved caveman arrives and warns them about the end of the world, they have to trust him. The Croods go on an adventure to survive and find a new home. This film has a great cast and even led to a TV series called Dawn of the Croods on Netflix. A sequel is also coming out in December 2020.
Finally, we have Rugrats: The Movie, the first of three theatrical films based on the popular Nicktoon. This film introduces Dil Pickles, Tommy’s baby brother. When the babies get tired of Dil’s crying and need for attention, they decide to take him back to the hospital. But things don’t go as planned, and they end up lost in the woods. They have to find Dil and make their way back home. This movie started a trend of Nicktoon movies and spin-off series.
If you enjoyed Rugrats: The Movie, you should definitely watch its sequel, Rugrats in Paris. This film focuses on Chucky and takes the whole gang on a vacation to Paris. They encounter a villain and have to stop her plans. Chucky’s dad also finds himself in a surprising situation. This is the best film in the trilogy and a must-watch for fans of the Rugrats series.
If you were a fan of the animated show Invader Zim, you’ll enjoy Invader Zim: Enter the Florpus. This Netflix special is set years after the original show’s cancellation. When Zim and GIR return to Earth, Dib Membrane, Zim’s archenemy, confronts them. However, Dib is not in great shape to oppose Zim anymore. Zim has forgotten his Phase 2 invasion plan, and chaos ensues. This film features many original cast members and has a great story for fans of the show.
Do you remember the show Rocko’s Modern Life? Well, Rocko’s Modern Life: Static Cling is a continuation of that show from the 90s. After spending time in space, Rocko, Heffer, and Filburt are brought back to society 23 years later. They find themselves in a modern O-Town filled with smartphones, energy drinks, and coffee shops. While Heffer and Filburt embrace the 21st century, Rocko wants to bring his favorite TV show, The Fatheads, back on the air. This movie is a nostalgia trip for fans of the original show.
Last but not least, we have The Croods. This movie is about a prehistoric family living in a dangerous time. When a more evolved caveman arrives and warns them about the end of the world, they have to trust him. The Croods go on an adventure to survive and find a new home. This film has a great cast and even led to a TV series called Dawn of the Croods on Netflix. A sequel is also coming out in December 2020.
Finally, we have Rugrats: The Movie, the first of three theatrical films based on the popular Nicktoon. This film introduces Dil Pickles, Tommy’s baby brother. When the babies get tired of Dil’s crying and need for attention, they decide to take him back to the hospital. But things don’t go as planned, and they end up lost in the woods. They have to find Dil and make their way back home. This movie started a trend of Nicktoon movies and spin-off series.
If you enjoyed Rugrats: The Movie, you should definitely watch its sequel, Rugrats in Paris. This film focuses on Chucky and takes the whole gang on a vacation to Paris. They encounter a villain and have to stop her plans. Chucky’s dad also finds himself in a surprising situation. This is the best film in the trilogy and a must-watch for fans of the Rugrats series.
Last but not least, we have The Croods. This movie is about a prehistoric family living in a dangerous time. When a more evolved caveman arrives and warns them about the end of the world, they have to trust him. The Croods go on an adventure to survive and find a new home. This film has a great cast and even led to a TV series called Dawn of the Croods on Netflix. A sequel is also coming out in December 2020.
Finally, we have Rugrats: The Movie, the first of three theatrical films based on the popular Nicktoon. This film introduces Dil Pickles, Tommy’s baby brother. When the babies get tired of Dil’s crying and need for attention, they decide to take him back to the hospital. But things don’t go as planned, and they end up lost in the woods. They have to find Dil and make their way back home. This movie started a trend of Nicktoon movies and spin-off series.
If you enjoyed Rugrats: The Movie, you should definitely watch its sequel, Rugrats in Paris. This film focuses on Chucky and takes the whole gang on a vacation to Paris. They encounter a villain and have to stop her plans. Chucky’s dad also finds himself in a surprising situation. This is the best film in the trilogy and a must-watch for fans of the Rugrats series.
If you enjoyed Rugrats: The Movie, you should definitely watch its sequel, Rugrats in Paris. This film focuses on Chucky and takes the whole gang on a vacation to Paris. They encounter a villain and have to stop her plans. Chucky’s dad also finds himself in a surprising situation. This is the best film in the trilogy and a must-watch for fans of the Rugrats series.
A Brief Look at Some Animated Films
In this article, I’ll be talking about a few animated films that have made their mark in recent years. From quirky stories to beloved characters, these movies offer something for everyone.
Klaus
If you’re in the mood for a heartwarming holiday film, look no further than Klaus. This movie, available on Netflix, tells the story of a postman named Jesper who is sent to a faraway town in the North Pole. There, he forms an unlikely friendship with Klaus, a mysterious toymaker. Together, they bring joy to the children of the town and discover the true meaning of Christmas.
Bee Movie
Remember the Bee Movie? This animated film, starring Jerry Seinfeld, has gained popularity in recent years thanks to a viral meme. It follows the adventures of a bee named Barry B. Benson, who decides to sue humans for stealing honey. With its quirky plot and unique animation style, Bee Movie is definitely worth a watch.
Turbo
Have you ever dreamed of becoming a fast and furious racecar? Well, that’s exactly what happens to Turbo, a snail with big dreams. This charming film takes you on a thrilling journey as Turbo defies the odds and competes in the Indianapolis 500. It’s a story about believing in yourself and never giving up on your dreams.
The Lorax
If you’re passionate about protecting the environment, you’ll love The Lorax. Based on the beloved Dr. Seuss book, this film follows the adventures of a young boy named Ted who sets out to find a Truffula tree. Along the way, he learns about the importance of nature and the consequences of greed. It’s a powerful and thought-provoking story that will inspire you to take care of our planet.
Puss in Boots
If you’re a fan of the Shrek movies, you’ll love Puss in Boots. This spin-off film tells the origin story of the beloved feline character. Puss in Boots teams up with his friends to steal a magical goose that lays golden eggs. With its action-packed scenes and memorable characters, this movie is sure to keep you entertained.
Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs
Imagine a world where food falls from the sky like rain. That’s the premise of Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs. In this hilarious and heartwarming film, Flint Lockwood, a young inventor, creates a machine that turns water into food. But when the machine goes out of control, it’s up to Flint to save the town from a food-based catastrophe.
Monster House
Monster House is a spooky and thrilling animated film that will keep you on the edge of your seat. It follows the story of three kids who discover that their neighbor’s house is alive and hungry for children. As they try to stop the house from devouring trick-or-treaters, they uncover dark secrets and face their fears. It’s a perfect movie for a Halloween night.
Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa
The sequel to the hit film Madagascar, Escape 2 Africa takes our favorite animal characters on another wild adventure. When their improvised plane crash-lands in Africa, Alex the lion and his friends reunite with their families and discover the wonders of their homeland. It’s a heartwarming story about family, friendship, and finding your true home.
The Secret Life of Pets 2
If you’ve ever wondered what your pets do when you’re not around, The Secret Life of Pets 2 has the answers. This hilarious film gives us a glimpse into the lives of our furry friends, from the mischievous antics of Max and Duke to the fearless adventures of Snowball the bunny. With its lovable characters and laugh-out-loud moments, this movie is a must-watch for pet lovers.
Rango
Rango is an animated film that stands out from the crowd. Directed by Gore Verbinski, it tells the story of a chameleon named Rango who becomes the sheriff of an old-west town. With its stunning visuals and witty dialogue, this movie is a treat for both kids and adults. It’s a true gem in the world of animation.
Leap
Step into the world of ballet with Leap. This enchanting film follows the journey of Félicie, a young orphan who dreams of becoming a dancer. With determination and the help of her friend Victor, she embarks on an adventure to Paris and auditions for a prestigious ballet school. Featuring beautiful animation and a captivating story, Leap will inspire you to chase your dreams.
These are just a few examples of the many animated films that have captured our hearts and imaginations. Whether you’re in the mood for a heartwarming story, an action-packed adventure, or a thought-provoking message, there’s an animated film out there for you. So grab some popcorn, sit back, and let these movies take you on a magical journey.
By William Sattelberg
200 Articles Published
Table of Contents
- The Little Prince
- The Breadwinner
- Godzilla: Planet of the Monsters
- Gnome Alone
- Mary and the Witch’s Flower
- Duck Duck Goose
- Next Gen
- Pokemon the Movie: I Choose You!
- The Princess and the Frog
- Invader Zim: Enter the Florpus
- Rocko’s Modern Life: Static Cling
- The Croods
- Rugrats: The Movie
- Rugrats in Paris: The Movie
- Klaus
- Bee Movie
- Turbo
- The Lorax
- Puss in Boots
- Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs
- Monster House
- Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa
- The Secret Life of Pets 2
- Rango
- Leap
