Animated movies continue to evolve, captivating us with stunning visuals, touching narratives, and innovative characters. The Academy Award-nominated Animated Feature Films in 2025 pushed the boundaries of storytelling, emotion, and imagination.
For full disclosure, and despite what I wrote in the paragraph above, in general, I am not much of a fan of animation. However, I try to watch all the nominated films in all categories. This year, I am way behind in that endeavor. The 2026 nominations have been announced, and here I am, just getting to the 2025-nominated Animated Feature Films. However, I am very glad that I got to them, because they are excellent! As a group, they are much better than the Best Film nominations, some of which were awful. Below is my rank ordering of the five animated films.
It is important to note that animated films are not just for children, in fact some of them are NOT for children.
1. Flow
Flow carries us on a pulse-throbbing journey through a water-world where colors and emotions blend in mesmerizing ways. Guided by visionary Latvian director Gints Zilbalodis, this film explores the connection between the flow of life and the flow of art. The story is about a cat struggling to survive in a post-apocalyptic animal kingdom, battling dangerous enemies and unexpected alliances. Its craft is as much in the vivid metaphor as the evocative animation that glides from one affective landscape to the next.
The currents of the waters reflect the film's tribute to metamorphosis and craftsmanship, ultimately luring viewers into their own flood of emotions through themes of survival, brotherhood, and perseverance. The novel fusion of traditional hand-drawing with state-of-the-art digital elements has garnered rave reviews and reshaped the artistic potential of animated films.
Flow was also nominated in the Best International Film category, where I also rated it the best of the group. No need to worry about subtitles, as there is no dialogue. It won the Oscar in the Animated Feature Film category. Do not miss this movie!
Currently, you can watch it on HBO Max. Rent it on Apple TV or Prime Video. Buy it on Amazon.
2. Memoir of a Snail
It is important to note that this is NOT an animated children's film. It is only the second R-rated film nominated in this category. It is a quirky, semi-autobiographical story by writer, producer, and director Adam Elliot.
Memoir of a Snail is a work of art that lets us see the world through a special lens – that of an ordinary snail. Its indie style suits its contemplative mood. When a snail trundles across a garden, it's not a snail trundling across a garden — it's a tale of human growth and perseverance.
Memoir of a Snail is a stunning tribute to visual narrative, spinning its audience into the enchanted universe of its endearing but melancholy protagonist.
The stop-action animation is rich and visceral, providing you with an almost tactile sensation that sucks you into the snail's lethargic trek and the protagonist's journey. With its own witty yet bittersweet take on life, the movie captures the essence of its protagonist. Its metaphorical journey invokes reflection on the reward of disaster and survival, a theme sublimely woven into its design. Its groundbreaking animation techniques are a vehicle for expressing deep emotions that all of us have experienced at least at times in our lives
Currently, you can watch it on Hulu, rent it on Prime Video, or purchase it on Amazon.
3. The Wild Robot
On the surface, The Wild Robot, inspired by Peter Brown's beloved book, resonates with its ecological message, adding poignancy to the animated landscape of 2025. It chronicles a robot named Roz who's stranded on a deserted island and must adjust to life with nature. And as she makes her home, she forms deep connections with the local wildlife. The film beautifully explores the themes of acceptance, friendship, and family. The animation beautifully captures the peaceful complexity of nature, bringing the island and its animals to life.
I found the film a bit slow at the beginning, but it turned into a touching story. Also, the film should have ended sooner. It would have been more powerful if it had been cut a bit shorter.
Nevertheless, the film's modest message of empathy and environmentalism becomes both reflective and expository, inspiring audiences to interact with nature and consider their duty towards it. This moving narrative and innovative animation are a call to action for conservation and respect for the natural world.
Currently, you can watch it on Netflix. Rent it on Prime Video or Apple TV. Buy it on Amazon.
4. Inside Out 2
I did not find this sequel as engaging as the original. That is not a harsh critique. The first Inside Out was such a unique approach that I doubt it would be possible to live up to it. Nevertheless, Inside Out 2 expands the enchantment of its prequel, delving into the difficulties of growing up. Riley's return, along with her emotions — Joy, Sadness, Fear, Anger, and Disgust — presents another full, but fresh perspective on growing up. With new faces portraying the emotions of the turbulent early teenage years, the movie captures both the comedic and the heartbreaking aspects of this transition. It's clever and astute, imparting heartfelt truths about vulnerability, change, and respecting our feelings.
Its blend of humor and heartfelt emotion is spot on and will resonate with newcomers and original fans alike.
Currently, you can watch it on Disney+. Rent it on Prime Video or Apple TV. Buy it on Amazon.
5. Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl
Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl marks a return for the beloved duo, showcasing the same whimsical charm that fans adore while venturing into new territory with innovative animation technology. It's enjoyable, but the droll humor isn't my favorite. Nevertheless, this episode has Wallace and Gromit embroiled in a funny chicken heist. What really distinguishes this film, however, is its artful blend of practical effects and CGI, resulting in mesmerizing scenes that preserve the franchise's signature stop-motion style. It's a yarn with signature British wit, slapstick, and lovable characters that delivers the nostalgia and laughs that fans have come to cherish.
On one level, the movie is an homage to the classic elements of the series–and on the other, it keeps up with the times through modern animation techniques, keeping Wallace and Gromit's spirit alive.
Currently, you can watch it on Netflix and Apple TV.
Conclusion
As the animation landscape continues to diversify, it's evident that these films embody a range of narratives, aesthetics, and themes deserving of recognition at the Oscars. From the environmental messages in Flow and The Wild Robot to the emotional depths explored in Inside Out 2, these films showcase the diverse storytelling possibilities within animation. We are reminded of the power of animated movies to transcend age and cultural boundaries, making them an essential part of contemporary cinema. With each of the nominated films providing something special, there is a wealth of goodness for animation lovers (or not) of all ages to experience.