
Art, dreams, magic… ever since they were created, animated films have had the power to transport us to fantasy worlds that awaken our imagination and stir up a range of emotions. Whether it’s the iconic Disney classics or the latest productions from Illumination, DreamWorks, or Pixar, watching an animated movie is always a great option for spending time with family.
But if I’m an adult, why do I love children’s movies so much? This is one of the most common questions asked by those who have already left their childhood behind. Though let’s be honest — we all enjoy watching them (cast the first stone if you don’t!). If you’ve ever asked yourself this question, psychology has the answer.
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What does it mean to like animated movies?
The preference for this type of cinema is often linked to highly valuable traits. So no, you are not childish or immature. According to psychology, enjoying animated movies can reveal various aspects of your personality, emotional world, and how you relate to your surroundings. Here’s what it means:
- Active imagination: Animated films are often filled with fantastic worlds, magical characters, and creative storylines. If you’re drawn to them, you likely have an open mind, are able to think outside the box, and enjoy exploring new ideas or scenarios.
- High empathy: Many of these stories deal with universal emotions like loss, love, friendship, or overcoming obstacles. Enjoying them can indicate deep emotional sensitivity and a strong ability to connect with others’ feelings.
- Connection with childhood: Watching animated films can be a way to keep your inner child alive. This doesn’t mean immaturity — it reflects emotional openness and a willingness to keep enjoying the simple and the wonderful.
- Need for positive escapism: In times of stress or routine, these movies can offer a healthy escape. Enjoying them may reflect a balanced way of seeking comfort, hope, or inspiration amid daily life.
- Aesthetic or artistic appreciation: Many people are drawn to animation for its visual quality, graphic style, music, or symbolic storytelling. In this case, the enjoyment may be tied to artistic or cultural interests.
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What are the best animated movies?
Since the release of the first animated film, these movies have become an essential part of every family’s video collection. Here’s a list of the top 10 best animated movies of all time, according to film critics:
- Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937) – Walt Disney Studios: The first full-length, full-color animated movie. This film marked the beginning of animated cinema as we know it and proved that an animated story could captivate audiences for an entire feature.
- My Neighbor Totoro (1988) – Studio Ghibli: Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, it’s a Japanese classic that blends tenderness, nature, and magic. Totoro has become a pop culture icon for its message of connection with nature and childhood.
- The Lion King (1994) – Disney: Inspired by Hamlet, this movie defined a generation with its powerful story about growth, duty, and loss. Its music and animation make it one of the most beloved films of all time.
- Toy Story (1995) – Pixar Animation Studios: The first fully CGI-animated film. In addition to being a technical revolution, it offered a touching story about friendship, change, and identity, kicking off one of the most successful sagas.
- Princess Mononoke (1997) – Studio Ghibli: A visually stunning and deep film with a strong ecological and philosophical message. It portrays the conflict between nature and human development in a mature and poetic way.
- Shrek (2001) – DreamWorks Animation: A fairy tale satire full of humor and heart. It redefined animation for broader audiences and won the first-ever Oscar for Best Animated Feature.
- Spirited Away (2001) – Studio Ghibli: An Oscar-winning film considered by many as the best animated movie in history. A girl trapped in a spirit world undergoes a unique emotional and personal transformation.
- Wall-E (2008) – Pixar Animation Studios: A subtle and moving critique of consumerism, loneliness, and the environment, told largely without dialogue. One of the boldest and smartest animated films ever made.
- Coco (2017) – Pixar Animation Studios: Inspired by Mexico’s Day of the Dead, this film celebrates memory, family, and culture. Its music, visuals, and emotional depth make it a modern gem.
- Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018) – Sony Pictures Animation: With a groundbreaking visual style, this film reimagined animation’s language. It combines action, humor, identity, and an homage to comics like never before.
Where can I watch animated movies?
Today, streaming platforms let you watch countless movies, including animated ones. Some platforms with animated films in their catalogs include:
- Disney+
- Netflix
- Amazon Prime Video
- HBO Max