Pixar is known for its family-friendly animated films. Since its founding in 1986, the studio has delivered unforgettable classics that many still turn to for nostalgia, comfort, or to share with their own families. From their very first iconic film, Toy Story, to their most recent release, Elio, the studio has remained a cornerstone of animated filmography.
While films in recent years haven’t quite matched the recognition of the studio’s classics, many of them deserve far more attention, as many are incredibly moving and explore meaningful, relatable themes. Over the past ten years, Pixar has created films that can’t be overlooked in its growing catalog, with many standing alongside some of the studio’s greatest hits.
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Onward
Onward centers on teenage elf Ian Lightfoot, who, on his 16th birthday, receives a wizard’s staff and a spell that can bring back his late father for 24 hours. However, when the magic only restores his lower body, Ian and his brother Barley set off on an adventure to finish the spell before the day ends.
Pixar’s Forgotten First Movie Of The 2020s Deserves A Sequel 5 Years After $142 Million Box Office
While Pixar has made sequels to many of its most beloved movies, it’s the box office flop Onward that deserves a follow-up film most of all.
The film was released in March 2020 and was significantly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, and was subsequently quickly moved to streaming. However, it became known for its heartfelt, charming adventure and finale that emphasized brotherhood and the magic of living in the moment with those present.
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Incredibles 2
Incredibles 2 picks up right where the finale of the first film left off 14 years earlier. After the Parr family clashed with the Underminer, Helen (Elastigirl), Bob (Mr. Incredible), and Lucius (Frozone) are recruited to reframe the public image of superheroes, starting with Elastigirl. As Mr. Incredible stays home to manage the household, Elastigirl takes on the Screenslaver.
The sequel stands out for its intense action sequences, humor, and reversal of traditional gender roles. With its fast-paced narrative and strong character development, Incredibles 2 is a thrilling sequel to a fan favorite film.
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Luca
Luca follows the titular character, a shy sea monster who discovers that he and his friend Alberto transform into humans when they’re dry. Venturing onto the Italian Riviera, the two spend the summer living among humans while maintaining their secret from suspicious townspeople who are anti-sea monsters.
While not as high-profile as other Pixar films, it stands out as a charming film. Similar to Onward, Luca was affected by the pandemic and was released on Disney+ in 2021 rather than in theaters. Yet, despite the circumstances, it quickly became known as a heartfelt coming-of-age story with distinctive and vibrant animation.
5
Turning Red
Turning Red follows 13-year-old Meilin “Mei” Lee, a confident, overachieving student who discovers that she can transform into a giant red panda whenever she feels too excited or stressed. As she navigates this change, she finds herself caught between her controlling mother and her desire to carve her own path alongside her friends.
Turning Red does what few other animated films do by exploring adolescence, puberty, and messy familial dynamics in a way that may be uncomfortable for some, yet is immensely relatable. The film leans into its themes and doesn’t shy away from emotional, intimate moments, making it one of Pixar’s best modern films.
4
Inside Out 2
Inside Out 2 brings audiences back to Riley and her inner emotions as she becomes a teenager, dealing with puberty and anxieties. Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust find themselves faced with many new emotions that they have trouble regulating, leading to an inner conflict that reshapes Riley’s sense of identity.
As a sequel, Inside Out 2 matures the storyline by introducing psychologically complex themes and not shying away from exploring how anxiety can impact daily life. The film normalizes mental health issues and stands out for its appeal to both children and adults, making it not only a great sequel but also one of Pixar’s must-watch films.
3
Soul
Soul centers on Joe Gardner, a middle-school music teacher and aspiring jazz pianist whose big break is cut short by an accident that sends him to the Great Before after he refuses to go to the Great Beyond. There, he mentors a soul named 22, who has no interest in going to Earth, leading to a heartfelt journey that explores passion and what it means to be alive.
The movie emphasizes the importance of small moments, creating a moving and thought-provoking reflection on the meaning of life.
The film stands out for its soundtrack, deep, philosophical explorations, and emotional and rewarding character arcs. The movie emphasizes the importance of small moments, creating a moving and thought-provoking reflection on the meaning of life.
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Toy Story 4
Toy Story 4 picks up with Woody and the gang adjusting to life with Bonnie, a young girl whose imagination gives purpose to the old toys. However, when Woody is separated from the group, he reunites with Bo Peep, who lives independently and self-reliantly, prompting him to question his role and the path he wants to follow.
The film stands out in the Toy Story franchise for its exploration of purpose and identity, especially through Woody’s character arc. Paired with new, charming characters, the film effectively creates an experience that keeps both longtime and new fans engaged from start to finish.
1
Coco
Coco centers on Miguel, a young boy from a family that forbids music, yet dreams of becoming a musician. When he finds himself in the Land of the Dead on Dia de los Muertos, he must find his ancestor to lift his family’s ban on music.
However, he learns that things aren’t what they seem as he uncovers family secrets through his connection with other ancestors.
The film stands out for its gorgeous animation and heartfelt story. Paired with its authentic and respectful portrayal of Mexican culture, the film is a beautiful, moving story that culminates in an unforgettable ending audiences won’t want to miss.