Not just for kids: the animated films adults can enjoy too

At this year’s Oscars, Flow triumphed over a host of blockbusters to become the first independent film to win the best animated feature award since the category was introduced in 2001, with Shrek, see below, becoming the debut winner in 2002.

The poignant, dialogue-free film follows a cat who – escaping a catastrophic flood – must abandon his solitary life to live on a boat with a variety of other species. It highlights how animation can captivate audiences of all ages.

With the imminent release of animated film King of Kings – featuring an impressive cast, including Pierce Brosnan and Uma Thurman – and the news that Chinese animation Ne Zha 2 has broken box office records, it’s clear that both audiences and critics continue to have a growing appetite for the genre.

Whether you’re seeking a wholesome escape, a tear-jerker, or a film that challenges your view of the world, animation offers diverse storytelling for all.

Here are five films even the most animation-averse will struggle to resist.

Even the word ‘magical’ feels like it doesn’t adequately describe Spirited Away – Studio Ghibli’s most beloved film, released in 2001.

Following 10-year-old Chihiro as she navigates her way around a realm of spirits after her parents are turned into pigs, Spirited Away’s combination of stunning visuals, enchanting characters and immersive storytelling provides the kind of cinematic experience that’s hard to forget, even when you’re watching at home.

Stream Spirited Away on Netflix

Charming in the specific way Wes Anderson does so well, this 2009 take on Roald Dahl’s famous story does everything you want a good animation to do.

It’s feelgood without being overly sentimental, as funny for the kids as it is for the adults, and visually interesting enough to stand out. Plus, with George Clooney, Meryl Streep and Bill Murray in the cast, it’s got some serious acting chops involved.

See also: Isle of Dogs (2018), Anderson’s later animation about a boy’s quest to find his deported pet on Trash Island.

Stream Fantastic Mr. Fox on Disney+, Apple TV, ITVX and more

If a film’s ability to penetrate online culture and become a meme is testament to its significance to today’s cultural landscape, then consider Shrek one of cinema’s most important moments.

The first film may have been released nearly 25 years ago, but the franchise’s enduring popularity is clear in its impact on popular culture – there were even Shrek Raves across the UK and beyond last year.

Not seen it since you were child? Its irreverent humour and offbeat narrative might just have you counting down the days until Shrek 5 is released next year.

Stream Shrek on Netflix, Google Play, Apple TV and more

For those who regard Rotten Tomatoes scores as a good indicator of a film’s quality, let it be known that Ratatouille has an impressive 96 percent score.

The 2007 film about a rat who wants to be chef is a light-hearted modern classic, and Remy has become one Pixar’s most unlikely heroes.

Stream Ratatouille on Disney+, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video and more

Though often referenced for its traumatising impact on a generation of kids when it came out in the late Seventies, Watership Down remains significant –for those brave enough to watch it.

The adaptation of Richard Adams’ novel about a group of rabbits who leave their warren to escape impending destruction deals with big themes of freedom, community and leadership, and is a reminder that animated movies often tackle complex topics in the most interesting ways.

Stream Watership Down on BFI Player, Apple TV and Amazon Prime Video

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