Top 10 Pixar Movies That Are Timeless
#10: “Turning Red” (2022)
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If you were a Chinese-Canadian teen girl in the early aughts, you probably felt like this fantastical comedy mirrored your experiences. But even if you weren’t any of those things, chances are it still resonated with you. “Turning Red” follows Mei Lee as she deals with puberty and all that it entails. Oh, and she starts turning into a red panda, a creature her family has a fascinating connection to! It’s a heartwarming story of self-discovery and growth, complete with a relatable protagonist, a fleshed out mother-daughter relationship, a great friend group, and adorable animals. The iconic boy band doesn't hurt, either! We have no doubt this movie will continue to inspire parents, their kids, and their kids’ kids for generations to come.
#9: “WALL-E” (2008)
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A movie about a post-apocalyptic Earth covered in garbage where the titular clean-up robot resides doesn’t scream Pixar at first glance. But give that robot feelings, add in a love story, and take us to space where humans live under questionable conditions? Now you’ve got a timely, captivating, and thought-provoking project on your hands. WALL-E is an adorable robot, but he’s so much more than that, too. Just look at his budding relationship with EVE! Together, they remind us of everything life can be. This soul-stirring film spotlights the worst of humanity — and the best of it. It’s also a reminder to nourish Earth, because it’s our home. That’s a lesson we’ll always need, so “WALL-E” won’t ever lose its impact.
#8: “Coco” (2017)
Disney/Pixar's Coco (2017) - Top 5 Facts You Need to Know
In a way, the stories we tell have the power to keep those who are no longer with us alive. No movie understands – or communicates – that better than “Coco,” which is precisely why it won’t soon be forgotten. When Miguel finds himself in the Land of the Dead, he learns things he never knew about his ancestors. His adventure ends up healing his family, closing old wounds and opening the door to more love, joy, and music. While that’s serious stuff, the movie also feels wonderfully lively. It’s filled with magic, and is vibrant from both a visual and narrative standpoint. You’ll cry, laugh, and definitely sing along. Most importantly, you’ll hold your loved ones a little closer once the credits roll.
#7: “Inside Out” (2015)
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Feelings and memories are complex. But “Inside Out” cracks the code, bringing them to life in a universally understandable way. This tear-jerker features young Riley’s 5 emotions. They must save her when disaster strikes in her mind following a move to San Francisco. The film is hilarious, with an A-list voice cast featuring Amy Poehler, Phyllis Smith, Bill Hader, Lewis Black, and Mindy Kaling that makes every scene pop. Beyond that though, the heartfelt story reminds us to feel everything – good and bad. After all, you can’t have joy if you don’t have sadness. That message transcends time and space. And who could forget imaginary friend Bing Bong, whose sacrificial storyline always wrecks us? Needless to say, “Inside Out” gave us memories we’ll cherish forever.
#6: “Up” (2009)
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Blending themes of aging, love, loss, and joy together, “Up” is a stirring masterpiece that makes us cry and laugh time and again. The opening sequence alone makes it a classic. Set to a gorgeous piece of music, it takes us through Carl and Ellie’s relationship and her passing. It’s thoughtful, emotionally devastating, and fully immerses us into the story. The rest of the film lives up to the high bar the segment sets, as we journey to Paradise Falls with Carl and his new pal Russell. Their action-packed trip is filled with twists and deeply poignant moments. Most importantly, it helps Carl – and us watching – realize that the life he and Ellie built was the greatest adventure of all. Can somebody pass the tissues?
#5: “Ratatouille” (2007)
Before this animated dramedy came out, we never would’ve imagined that a rat covertly becoming a chef in a human kitchen could tug at our heartstrings. To be fair, it doesn’t exactly sound appealing — or hygienic in the slightest. Yet Remy’s story proves that you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, because “Ratatouille” absolutely stands the test of time. Not only is it entertaining and super appetizing, but it also has a deep and perpetually relevant message. If you have a passion and a dream, you should cultivate it, even if the world tells you not to. Sure, we probably won’t be inviting any real rats into our kitchens any time soon. But we’ll happily welcome Remy any day of the week.
#4: “The Incredibles” (2004)
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Superheroes, they’re just like us! After 15 years of forced civilian-only life, Bob Parr breaks out his Mr. Incredible identity. The rest of his family, headed by matriarch Helen, aka Elastigirl, wind up joining. Together, they save the world – and grow as a unit. The heroics allow the movie to go big on its action sequences. But it’s the family dynamics that make the story an enduring favorite, infusing it with humor, warmth, and love. We’d also be remiss not to mention the fantastic supporting characters, like Frozone and Honey. And who could forget the Edna Mode, scene-stealer and designer extraordinaire? We had to wait almost 15 years for a sequel, but it was more than worth it. The whole franchise is honestly super!
#3: “Monsters, Inc.” (2001)
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What if we told you there really were monsters hiding in your room, ready to scare you? Now what if we told you they were just doing their jobs – and that most of them weren’t actually evil?! That’s the core premise here. When an adorable little girl, affectionately nicknamed Boo, finds herself in the world of monsters, she forms special bonds with lovable creatures Sulley and Mike. There’s friendship, conflict, deceit, and chaos that follows. Your eyes will be glued to the screen, and you’ll feel your heart grow a million sizes. Every second of “Monsters, Inc.” is better than the last, and nothing scares us more than the thought of a world where it doesn’t exist. The prequel is pretty great, too!
#2: “Finding Nemo” (2003)
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Parent-child relationships can be fraught, especially as the kid gets older and craves independence. But “Finding Nemo” proves that if you weather the storm, they can also be extremely rewarding. When the titular fish gets taken, he and his overprotective dad Marlin must find their way back to each other – literally and figuratively. They make wonderful new friends and learn a lot in the process. We can’t imagine a day where this movie won’t make us feel all the feelings, which tells you everything you need to know about the enduring hold it has on us. In fact, one adventure with these characters wasn’t enough. Thankfully, “Finding Dory” quenched our thirst for more ocean fun. Movie night is better with Marlin, Dory, Nemo, and company! Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions. “Brave” (2012) Whether You’re on Your First Viewing or Thousandth Rewatch, Merida’s Story Never Gets Old “Soul” (2020) Themes of Life & Death Are Immortal “Cars” (2006) We’ll Never Say No to a Ride with Lightning McQueen “A Bug's Life” (1998) This Underdog Story Has a Permanent Spot on Our Watchlist
#1: “Toy Story” franchise (1995-)
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It’s a simple idea: what if our toys were sentient? But these films take that concept and create a marvelous universe. Woody, Buzz, and the gang are all extremely compelling characters, and their journeys serve as nuanced representations of what it means to grow up. We see them accept new pals and embrace change. They also fight bad guys, support each other, find their paths, and more. There’s friendship, life lessons, laughter, and plenty of sob-worthy moments throughout. Each film packs an emotional punch and has immense staying power. But when you combine them all? You get magic, and, frankly, the very best Pixar has to offer. We’ve all got a lifelong friend in the “Toy Story” franchise, and that’s something we’re eternally grateful for.
