Animated movies adults should watch
Animation is not limited to children's movie night. This selection is for adult viewers looking for ambitious stories, striking visuals, and varied tones.
On this list
Perfect Blue
1997
Fantastic Mr. Fox
2009
The Tale of the Princess Kaguya
2013
Anomalisa
2015
The Red Turtle
2016
Loving Vincent
2017
Isle of Dogs
2018
I Lost My Body
2019
Wolfwalkers
2020
Flee
2021
Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio
2022
The Boy and the Heron
2023
Who this list is for
Animation can be visually ambitious, emotionally complex, and aimed squarely at adult viewers. This list is for people looking beyond children’s movie night, with international work, stop-motion, hand-drawn films, documentary animation, and serious subject matter.
How to use this list
Pick based on tone, not just animation style. Fantastic Mr. Fox and Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio offer distinctive stop-motion worlds. The Tale of the Princess Kaguya, Wolfwalkers, and The Boy and the Heron highlight hand-drawn artistry. Choose Flee, I Lost My Body, or Anomalisa when you want an adult-focused story. Check ratings and content before a group viewing.
Common mistakes
Do not assume an animated title is automatically light or suitable for children. Perfect Blue, Anomalisa, Flee, and I Lost My Body need careful selection for the audience. Avoid writing off subtitles or unfamiliar visual styles; those differences are part of what makes this list varied.
What is on this list
Titles include The Red Turtle, Loving Vincent, Isle of Dogs, Wolfwalkers, and The Boy and the Heron. Cross off films you already own or have seen, then choose one based on how much intensity and concentration you want that night.
When you are done
Take a moment to notice the storytelling or visual approach you liked most. That makes it easier to choose the next unchecked film, whether you want another stop-motion feature or a quieter, more contemplative animated story.
FAQ
Who is "Animated movies adults should watch" for?
Animation can be visually ambitious, emotionally complex, and aimed squarely at adult viewers. This list is for people looking beyond children’s movie night, with international work, stop-motion, hand-drawn films, documentary animation, and serious subject matter.
How should I use "Animated movies adults should watch"?
Pick based on tone, not just animation style. Fantastic Mr. Fox and Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio offer distinctive stop-motion worlds. The Tale of the Princess Kaguya, Wolfwalkers, and The Boy and the Heron highlight hand-drawn artistry. Choose Flee, I Lost My Body, or Anomalisa when you want an adult-focused story. Check ratings and content before a grou…
What should I skip or avoid with "Animated movies adults should watch"?
Do not assume an animated title is automatically light or suitable for children. Perfect Blue, Anomalisa, Flee, and I Lost My Body need careful selection for the audience. Avoid writing off subtitles or unfamiliar visual styles; those differences are part of what makes this list varied.
What is on the "Animated movies adults should watch" list?
Titles include The Red Turtle, Loving Vincent, Isle of Dogs, Wolfwalkers, and The Boy and the Heron. Cross off films you already own or have seen, then choose one based on how much intensity and concentration you want that night.
What should I do when I am done?
Take a moment to notice the storytelling or visual approach you liked most. That makes it easier to choose the next unchecked film, whether you want another stop-motion feature or a quieter, more contemplative animated story.
Related lists
For general planning only. Valedo does not guarantee this list’s accuracy, completeness, or suitability. Verify information before relying on it. Not a substitute for professional advice or safety training.