Top Underrated Animated Movies for a Weekend

Are you in the mood for some animated magic that flies under the radar? While classics like Toy Story and Frozen get all the limelight, there are plenty of underrated animated films that deserve your attention. These gems blend stunning visuals, engaging stories, and heartfelt messages, perfect for a cozy weekend. Let’s dive into this delightful world of animation!

Adventure

1. The Secret of Kells

Set in medieval Ireland, this film follows a young boy named Brendan who must complete a magical book that can save his village from invaders. With a unique art style inspired by illuminated manuscripts, it’s a visual feast.

• Best for: Families who enjoy rich folklore and artistic animation.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: How do you think stories shape our culture?

2. The Book of Life

This vibrant film tells the story of Manolo, a young man who embarks on a journey through the Land of the Remembered and the Land of the Forgotten to fulfill his dreams and win the love of his life.

• Best for: Those who appreciate cultural celebrations and vibrant visuals.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: What traditions do you think are important to remember?

3. Song of the Sea

A beautifully animated tale about a young boy and his sister, who is a selkie, as they embark on a journey to save the spirit world. This film is steeped in Irish mythology and stunning visuals.

• Best for: Fans of enchanting stories and mythical adventures.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: What do you think makes a story magical?

4. Ernest & Celestine

In this French-Belgian film, a bear named Ernest and a young mouse named Celestine form an unlikely friendship, challenging societal norms about their species. A heartwarming exploration of friendship and acceptance.

• Best for: Viewers looking for a gentle, charming story.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: How do friendships help us overcome differences?

5. A Shaun the Sheep Movie

Shaun the Sheep and his friends venture to the big city to rescue their farmer, leading to a hilarious adventure filled with clever visual humor.

• Best for: Families looking for fun, dialogue-free comedy.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: How does humor bring people together?

Fantasy

6. The Red Turtle

This dialogue-free animated film tells the story of a man stranded on a deserted island who befriends a giant red turtle. A moving exploration of love, loss, and the cycle of life.

• Best for: Those who enjoy artistic and philosophical storytelling.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: What do you think is the significance of nature in our lives?

7. Kubo and the Two Strings

In this visually stunning film, a young boy named Kubo must find his father’s armor to defeat an evil spirit. The combination of stop-motion animation and a compelling story is truly captivating.

• Best for: Fans of magical adventures with rich narratives.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: How do you think courage shapes our destinies?

8. The Illusionist

Set in 1950s France, this charming film follows a struggling magician who befriends a young girl. The beautiful hand-drawn animation and heartwarming story create a nostalgic experience.

• Best for: Viewers who appreciate nostalgia and heartwarming tales.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: How do you think art influences our lives?

9. The Triplets of Belleville

This French animated film tells the story of an elderly woman who sets off to rescue her grandson, a cyclist, from the clutches of the mafia. Its unique animation style and quirky humor make it unforgettable.

• Best for: Those who enjoy offbeat humor and unique storytelling.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: What do you think makes a story memorable?

10. Wolfwalkers

Set in 17th-century Ireland, this film follows a young apprentice who discovers a secret world of wolfwalkers—people who can transform into wolves. A stunning visual experience about conservation and friendship.

• Best for: Fans of beautiful animation and fantasy stories.
• Where to Watch: Available on Apple TV+.
• Question: How can storytelling promote understanding of nature?

Comedy

11. Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs

When a young inventor’s machine starts raining food, hilarity ensues in this colorful and imaginative film. It’s a feast for the eyes and funny for all ages.

• Best for: Families looking for light-hearted fun.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: If you could invent anything, what would it be?

12. Megamind

This comedic twist on the superhero genre follows Megamind, a villain who becomes the hero after defeating his longtime enemy. It’s packed with laughs and clever references.

• Best for: Viewers who enjoy clever humor and superhero stories.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: How do you think villains can become heroes?

13. Home

An alien named Oh finds himself stranded on Earth and teams up with a girl to escape his people. This colorful and funny adventure is filled with heartwarming moments.

• Best for: Families with young children.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: What does it mean to find a place you belong?

14. ParaNorman

In this spooky yet funny film, a young boy who can see ghosts must save his town from a zombie uprising. The mix of humor and horror makes it perfect for Halloween or any time!

• Best for: Fans of comedy-horror.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: How do you think fear can bring people together?

15. My Little Pony: The Movie

This colorful adventure follows the ponies as they leave Equestria to save their home from a dark force. It’s packed with catchy songs and positive messages about friendship.

• Best for: Fans of the My Little Pony franchise and families.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: What qualities do you think make a good friend?

Adventure

1. The Secret of Kells

Set in medieval Ireland, this film follows a young boy named Brendan who must complete a magical book that can save his village from invaders. With a unique art style inspired by illuminated manuscripts, it’s a visual feast.

• Best for: Families who enjoy rich folklore and artistic animation.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: How do you think stories shape our culture?

2. The Book of Life

This vibrant film tells the story of Manolo, a young man who embarks on a journey through the Land of the Remembered and the Land of the Forgotten to fulfill his dreams and win the love of his life.

• Best for: Those who appreciate cultural celebrations and vibrant visuals.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: What traditions do you think are important to remember?

3. Song of the Sea

A beautifully animated tale about a young boy and his sister, who is a selkie, as they embark on a journey to save the spirit world. This film is steeped in Irish mythology and stunning visuals.

• Best for: Fans of enchanting stories and mythical adventures.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: What do you think makes a story magical?

4. Ernest & Celestine

In this French-Belgian film, a bear named Ernest and a young mouse named Celestine form an unlikely friendship, challenging societal norms about their species. A heartwarming exploration of friendship and acceptance.

• Best for: Viewers looking for a gentle, charming story.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: How do friendships help us overcome differences?

5. A Shaun the Sheep Movie

Shaun the Sheep and his friends venture to the big city to rescue their farmer, leading to a hilarious adventure filled with clever visual humor.

• Best for: Families looking for fun, dialogue-free comedy.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: How does humor bring people together?

Fantasy

6. The Red Turtle

This dialogue-free animated film tells the story of a man stranded on a deserted island who befriends a giant red turtle. A moving exploration of love, loss, and the cycle of life.

• Best for: Those who enjoy artistic and philosophical storytelling.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: What do you think is the significance of nature in our lives?

7. Kubo and the Two Strings

In this visually stunning film, a young boy named Kubo must find his father’s armor to defeat an evil spirit. The combination of stop-motion animation and a compelling story is truly captivating.

• Best for: Fans of magical adventures with rich narratives.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: How do you think courage shapes our destinies?

8. The Illusionist

Set in 1950s France, this charming film follows a struggling magician who befriends a young girl. The beautiful hand-drawn animation and heartwarming story create a nostalgic experience.

• Best for: Viewers who appreciate nostalgia and heartwarming tales.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: How do you think art influences our lives?

9. The Triplets of Belleville

This French animated film tells the story of an elderly woman who sets off to rescue her grandson, a cyclist, from the clutches of the mafia. Its unique animation style and quirky humor make it unforgettable.

• Best for: Those who enjoy offbeat humor and unique storytelling.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: What do you think makes a story memorable?

10. Wolfwalkers

Set in 17th-century Ireland, this film follows a young apprentice who discovers a secret world of wolfwalkers—people who can transform into wolves. A stunning visual experience about conservation and friendship.

• Best for: Fans of beautiful animation and fantasy stories.
• Where to Watch: Available on Apple TV+.
• Question: How can storytelling promote understanding of nature?

Comedy

11. Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs

When a young inventor’s machine starts raining food, hilarity ensues in this colorful and imaginative film. It’s a feast for the eyes and funny for all ages.

• Best for: Families looking for light-hearted fun.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: If you could invent anything, what would it be?

12. Megamind

This comedic twist on the superhero genre follows Megamind, a villain who becomes the hero after defeating his longtime enemy. It’s packed with laughs and clever references.

• Best for: Viewers who enjoy clever humor and superhero stories.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: How do you think villains can become heroes?

13. Home

An alien named Oh finds himself stranded on Earth and teams up with a girl to escape his people. This colorful and funny adventure is filled with heartwarming moments.

• Best for: Families with young children.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: What does it mean to find a place you belong?

14. ParaNorman

In this spooky yet funny film, a young boy who can see ghosts must save his town from a zombie uprising. The mix of humor and horror makes it perfect for Halloween or any time!

• Best for: Fans of comedy-horror.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: How do you think fear can bring people together?

15. My Little Pony: The Movie

This colorful adventure follows the ponies as they leave Equestria to save their home from a dark force. It’s packed with catchy songs and positive messages about friendship.

• Best for: Fans of the My Little Pony franchise and families.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: What qualities do you think make a good friend?

Drama

16. Anomalisa

A unique stop-motion film about a self-help author who perceives everyone around him as having the same face and voice until he meets a woman who changes his perspective.

• Best for: Adults looking for a deep and introspective story.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: How do our perceptions shape our relationships?

17. The Breadwinner

This powerful film follows a young girl in Afghanistan who disguises herself as a boy to support her family after her father is imprisoned. A tale of courage and resilience.

• Best for: Those who appreciate stories about empowerment and family.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: What does bravery mean to you?

18. The Boy and the World

A visually stunning Brazilian film that tells the story of a young boy who sets off on a journey to find his father. Its vibrant colors and artistic style make it a visual masterpiece.

• Best for: Viewers who enjoy unique artistic expressions in storytelling.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: How does art influence the way we see the world?

19. The Red Turtle

This dialogue-free animated film tells the story of a man stranded on a deserted island who befriends a giant red turtle. A moving exploration of love, loss, and the cycle of life.

• Best for: Those who enjoy artistic and philosophical storytelling.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: What do you think is the significance of nature in our lives?

20. Spirited Away

A young girl finds herself in a mysterious spirit world where she must navigate challenges to save her parents. This Studio Ghibli classic is a breathtaking journey of growth and transformation.

• Best for: Anyone who enjoys magical realism and stunning animation.
• Where to Watch: Available on HBO Max.
• Question: What does it mean to grow up in a changing world?

Adventure

1. The Secret of Kells

Set in medieval Ireland, this film follows a young boy named Brendan who must complete a magical book that can save his village from invaders. With a unique art style inspired by illuminated manuscripts, it’s a visual feast.

• Best for: Families who enjoy rich folklore and artistic animation.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: How do you think stories shape our culture?

2. The Book of Life

This vibrant film tells the story of Manolo, a young man who embarks on a journey through the Land of the Remembered and the Land of the Forgotten to fulfill his dreams and win the love of his life.

• Best for: Those who appreciate cultural celebrations and vibrant visuals.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: What traditions do you think are important to remember?

3. Song of the Sea

A beautifully animated tale about a young boy and his sister, who is a selkie, as they embark on a journey to save the spirit world. This film is steeped in Irish mythology and stunning visuals.

• Best for: Fans of enchanting stories and mythical adventures.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: What do you think makes a story magical?

4. Ernest & Celestine

In this French-Belgian film, a bear named Ernest and a young mouse named Celestine form an unlikely friendship, challenging societal norms about their species. A heartwarming exploration of friendship and acceptance.

• Best for: Viewers looking for a gentle, charming story.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: How do friendships help us overcome differences?

5. A Shaun the Sheep Movie

Shaun the Sheep and his friends venture to the big city to rescue their farmer, leading to a hilarious adventure filled with clever visual humor.

• Best for: Families looking for fun, dialogue-free comedy.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: How does humor bring people together?

Fantasy

6. The Red Turtle

This dialogue-free animated film tells the story of a man stranded on a deserted island who befriends a giant red turtle. A moving exploration of love, loss, and the cycle of life.

• Best for: Those who enjoy artistic and philosophical storytelling.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: What do you think is the significance of nature in our lives?

7. Kubo and the Two Strings

In this visually stunning film, a young boy named Kubo must find his father’s armor to defeat an evil spirit. The combination of stop-motion animation and a compelling story is truly captivating.

• Best for: Fans of magical adventures with rich narratives.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: How do you think courage shapes our destinies?

8. The Illusionist

Set in 1950s France, this charming film follows a struggling magician who befriends a young girl. The beautiful hand-drawn animation and heartwarming story create a nostalgic experience.

• Best for: Viewers who appreciate nostalgia and heartwarming tales.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: How do you think art influences our lives?

9. The Triplets of Belleville

This French animated film tells the story of an elderly woman who sets off to rescue her grandson, a cyclist, from the clutches of the mafia. Its unique animation style and quirky humor make it unforgettable.

• Best for: Those who enjoy offbeat humor and unique storytelling.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: What do you think makes a story memorable?

10. Wolfwalkers

Set in 17th-century Ireland, this film follows a young apprentice who discovers a secret world of wolfwalkers—people who can transform into wolves. A stunning visual experience about conservation and friendship.

• Best for: Fans of beautiful animation and fantasy stories.
• Where to Watch: Available on Apple TV+.
• Question: How can storytelling promote understanding of nature?

Comedy

11. Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs

When a young inventor’s machine starts raining food, hilarity ensues in this colorful and imaginative film. It’s a feast for the eyes and funny for all ages.

• Best for: Families looking for light-hearted fun.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: If you could invent anything, what would it be?

12. Megamind

This comedic twist on the superhero genre follows Megamind, a villain who becomes the hero after defeating his longtime enemy. It’s packed with laughs and clever references.

• Best for: Viewers who enjoy clever humor and superhero stories.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: How do you think villains can become heroes?

13. Home

An alien named Oh finds himself stranded on Earth and teams up with a girl to escape his people. This colorful and funny adventure is filled with heartwarming moments.

• Best for: Families with young children.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: What does it mean to find a place you belong?

14. ParaNorman

In this spooky yet funny film, a young boy who can see ghosts must save his town from a zombie uprising. The mix of humor and horror makes it perfect for Halloween or any time!

• Best for: Fans of comedy-horror.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: How do you think fear can bring people together?

15. My Little Pony: The Movie

This colorful adventure follows the ponies as they leave Equestria to save their home from a dark force. It’s packed with catchy songs and positive messages about friendship.

• Best for: Fans of the My Little Pony franchise and families.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: What qualities do you think make a good friend?

Drama

16. Anomalisa

A unique stop-motion film about a self-help author who perceives everyone around him as having the same face and voice until he meets a woman who changes his perspective.

• Best for: Adults looking for a deep and introspective story.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: How do our perceptions shape our relationships?

17. The Breadwinner

This powerful film follows a young girl in Afghanistan who disguises herself as a boy to support her family after her father is imprisoned. A tale of courage and resilience.

• Best for: Those who appreciate stories about empowerment and family.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: What does bravery mean to you?

18. The Boy and the World

A visually stunning Brazilian film that tells the story of a young boy who sets off on a journey to find his father. Its vibrant colors and artistic style make it a visual masterpiece.

• Best for: Viewers who enjoy unique artistic expressions in storytelling.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: How does art influence the way we see the world?

19. The Red Turtle

This dialogue-free animated film tells the story of a man stranded on a deserted island who befriends a giant red turtle. A moving exploration of love, loss, and the cycle of life.

• Best for: Those who enjoy artistic and philosophical storytelling.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: What do you think is the significance of nature in our lives?

20. Spirited Away

A young girl finds herself in a mysterious spirit world where she must navigate challenges to save her parents. This Studio Ghibli classic is a breathtaking journey of growth and transformation.

• Best for: Anyone who enjoys magical realism and stunning animation.
• Where to Watch: Available on HBO Max.
• Question: What does it mean to grow up in a changing world?

Adventure

1. The Secret of Kells

Set in medieval Ireland, this film follows a young boy named Brendan who must complete a magical book that can save his village from invaders. With a unique art style inspired by illuminated manuscripts, it’s a visual feast.

• Best for: Families who enjoy rich folklore and artistic animation.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: How do you think stories shape our culture?

2. The Book of Life

This vibrant film tells the story of Manolo, a young man who embarks on a journey through the Land of the Remembered and the Land of the Forgotten to fulfill his dreams and win the love of his life.

• Best for: Those who appreciate cultural celebrations and vibrant visuals.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: What traditions do you think are important to remember?

3. Song of the Sea

A beautifully animated tale about a young boy and his sister, who is a selkie, as they embark on a journey to save the spirit world. This film is steeped in Irish mythology and stunning visuals.

• Best for: Fans of enchanting stories and mythical adventures.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: What do you think makes a story magical?

4. Ernest & Celestine

In this French-Belgian film, a bear named Ernest and a young mouse named Celestine form an unlikely friendship, challenging societal norms about their species. A heartwarming exploration of friendship and acceptance.

• Best for: Viewers looking for a gentle, charming story.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: How do friendships help us overcome differences?

5. A Shaun the Sheep Movie

Shaun the Sheep and his friends venture to the big city to rescue their farmer, leading to a hilarious adventure filled with clever visual humor.

• Best for: Families looking for fun, dialogue-free comedy.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: How does humor bring people together?

Fantasy

6. The Red Turtle

This dialogue-free animated film tells the story of a man stranded on a deserted island who befriends a giant red turtle. A moving exploration of love, loss, and the cycle of life.

• Best for: Those who enjoy artistic and philosophical storytelling.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: What do you think is the significance of nature in our lives?

7. Kubo and the Two Strings

In this visually stunning film, a young boy named Kubo must find his father’s armor to defeat an evil spirit. The combination of stop-motion animation and a compelling story is truly captivating.

• Best for: Fans of magical adventures with rich narratives.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: How do you think courage shapes our destinies?

8. The Illusionist

Set in 1950s France, this charming film follows a struggling magician who befriends a young girl. The beautiful hand-drawn animation and heartwarming story create a nostalgic experience.

• Best for: Viewers who appreciate nostalgia and heartwarming tales.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: How do you think art influences our lives?

9. The Triplets of Belleville

This French animated film tells the story of an elderly woman who sets off to rescue her grandson, a cyclist, from the clutches of the mafia. Its unique animation style and quirky humor make it unforgettable.

• Best for: Those who enjoy offbeat humor and unique storytelling.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: What do you think makes a story memorable?

10. Wolfwalkers

Set in 17th-century Ireland, this film follows a young apprentice who discovers a secret world of wolfwalkers—people who can transform into wolves. A stunning visual experience about conservation and friendship.

• Best for: Fans of beautiful animation and fantasy stories.
• Where to Watch: Available on Apple TV+.
• Question: How can storytelling promote understanding of nature?

Comedy

11. Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs

When a young inventor’s machine starts raining food, hilarity ensues in this colorful and imaginative film. It’s a feast for the eyes and funny for all ages.

• Best for: Families looking for light-hearted fun.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: If you could invent anything, what would it be?

12. Megamind

This comedic twist on the superhero genre follows Megamind, a villain who becomes the hero after defeating his longtime enemy. It’s packed with laughs and clever references.

• Best for: Viewers who enjoy clever humor and superhero stories.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: How do you think villains can become heroes?

13. Home

An alien named Oh finds himself stranded on Earth and teams up with a girl to escape his people. This colorful and funny adventure is filled with heartwarming moments.

• Best for: Families with young children.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: What does it mean to find a place you belong?

14. ParaNorman

In this spooky yet funny film, a young boy who can see ghosts must save his town from a zombie uprising. The mix of humor and horror makes it perfect for Halloween or any time!

• Best for: Fans of comedy-horror.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: How do you think fear can bring people together?

15. My Little Pony: The Movie

This colorful adventure follows the ponies as they leave Equestria to save their home from a dark force. It’s packed with catchy songs and positive messages about friendship.

• Best for: Fans of the My Little Pony franchise and families.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: What qualities do you think make a good friend?

Drama

16. Anomalisa

A unique stop-motion film about a self-help author who perceives everyone around him as having the same face and voice until he meets a woman who changes his perspective.

• Best for: Adults looking for a deep and introspective story.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: How do our perceptions shape our relationships?

17. The Breadwinner

This powerful film follows a young girl in Afghanistan who disguises herself as a boy to support her family after her father is imprisoned. A tale of courage and resilience.

• Best for: Those who appreciate stories about empowerment and family.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: What does bravery mean to you?

18. The Boy and the World

A visually stunning Brazilian film that tells the story of a young boy who sets off on a journey to find his father. Its vibrant colors and artistic style make it a visual masterpiece.

• Best for: Viewers who enjoy unique artistic expressions in storytelling.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Question: How does art influence the way we see the world?

19. The Red Turtle

This dialogue-free animated film tells the story of a man stranded on a deserted island who befriends a giant red turtle. A moving exploration of love, loss, and the cycle of life.

• Best for: Those who enjoy artistic and philosophical storytelling.
• Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Question: What do you think is the significance of nature in our lives?

20. Spirited Away

A young girl finds herself in a mysterious spirit world where she must navigate challenges to save her parents. This Studio Ghibli classic is a breathtaking journey of growth and transformation.

• Best for: Anyone who enjoys magical realism and stunning animation.
• Where to Watch: Available on HBO Max.
• Question: What does it mean to grow up in a changing world?

Conclusion

These underrated animated films showcase the incredible storytelling and artistic talent in the animation world. Whether you’re seeking adventure, laughter, or a bit of magic, these movies have something for everyone. So, which of these delightful animated films will you add to your weekend watchlist?