Discover hidden gems in the world of animation with our roundup of five criminally overlooked animated films. Whether you're a Disney aficionado or simply appreciate the artistry of animated storytelling, this article is your guide to finding quality films for your next movie night.
Animation has long been a cornerstone of the entertainment industry, captivating audiences with its ability to bring fantastical worlds and heroic characters to life. From the earliest motion pictures, children and adults alike have been enchanted by animated tales that transcend cultural boundaries.
For much of the 20th and 21st centuries, Disney has been the undisputed leader in animation, creating iconic characters like Mickey Mouse and Winnie the Pooh. However, not all Disney films have enjoyed commercial success, despite their artistic brilliance.
Treasure Planet is Disney's futuristic adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson's classic novel, Treasure Island. Released in 2002, the film follows a teenage boy who embarks on a cosmic adventure, battling space pirates and navigating black holes.
Disney employed a groundbreaking technique by overlaying 2D animation on 3D computer graphics. Despite its innovative approach, the film suffered from poor timing, as CGI films like Toy Story and Shrek were beginning to dominate the market. This led to a financial loss of approximately $79 million for Disney (source).
Despite its initial failure, Treasure Planet has garnered a cult following for its stunning artwork and imaginative storytelling.
Released in 2001, Atlantis: The Lost Empire marked Disney's departure from its traditional musical format. The film follows Milo Thatch, voiced by Michael J. Fox, on his quest to find the lost city of Atlantis.
Unlike typical Disney films, Atlantis features a more mature storyline devoid of musical numbers and talking animal sidekicks. The film's intricate plot and breathtaking visuals were overshadowed by the release of Shrek the same year, leading to its commercial underperformance.
Disney had high hopes for Atlantis, even planning an adventure spin-off series. However, the film's poor timing led to the shelving of the entire franchise.
The Emperor's New Groove, released in 2000, had one of the most tumultuous productions in Disney history. Initially conceived as a musical titled Kingdom of the Sun, the film underwent significant changes before its release.
The film's lighter, slapstick humor resonated well with test audiences, leading to its final form. The story follows Kuzco, a bratty emperor turned into a llama by his power-hungry advisor Yzma, voiced by Eartha Kitt.
Despite grossing $169 million worldwide, a modest sum compared to Disney's other hits, the film has become a cult classic celebrated for its humor and quotable dialogue.
Often mistaken for a Disney film, Anastasia is a Fox Animation Studios production that reimagines the story of the Grand Duchess of Russia. Set against the backdrop of the Russian Revolution, the film blends comedy, drama, romance, and action.
In an era dominated by stereotypical Disney princesses, Anastasia, or "Anya," offered a refreshing take on a female protagonist. The film's rich artistic style and compelling narrative have ensured its lasting appeal.
The film's enduring popularity led to a Broadway musical adaptation, further cementing its status as an underrated classic.
Released in 1998 by DreamWorks, The Prince of Egypt was the studio's first 2D musical animation. The film tells the biblical story of Moses, focusing on the narrative rather than religious connotations.
The film received critical acclaim, winning the Oscar for Best Original Song and earning a nomination for Best Musical (source). Its opening sequence is considered one of the best in animation history, rivaling even The Lion King.
Featuring an all-star cast, including Helen Mirren, Ralph Fiennes, Val Kilmer, Sandra Bullock, and Patrick Stewart, the film brings ancient Egypt to life with stunning animation and a compelling storyline.
While Disney has been a dominant force in animation, many remarkable films have flown under the radar. These underrated gems offer unique storytelling, innovative animation techniques, and unforgettable characters, making them worthy of your attention.
Written by Digital Puppets
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