Best Traditional Animated Films to Enjoy
Despite the prevalence of computer-generated imagery, occasional traditional animation gems like “Song of the Sea,” “Ernest & Celestine,” and “Spirited Away” persist. Traditional, hand-drawn 2D animation dominated feature films for about sixty years until “Toy Story” in 1995 revolutionized the industry, ushering in the era of fully CG animated films.
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5 Traditional Animated Movies
Explore the timeless charm of 5 traditional animated classics, including ‘Song of the Sea,’ ‘Ernest & Celestine,’ and ‘Spirited Away.’
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1. Lilo & Stitch stands out as Disney’s top animated film from the 2000s.
In the 2000s, Disney faced challenges after the successful Disney Renaissance and struggled to match Pixar’s achievements. Despite this, “Lilo & Stitch” emerged as Disney’s standout film of the era. The movie was created on a smaller budget than usual, opting for hand-drawn animation due to the high cost of computer-generated animation. Notably, “Lilo & Stitch” featured unique watercolor painted backgrounds, a technique not used in Disney animation since 1941’s “Dumbo.”
2. The Simpsons Movie holds the record as the highest-grossing traditionally animated film
The Simpsons Movie, stemming from the longest-running primetime scripted TV series, holds the top spot as the highest-grossing traditionally animated film in the CG era. Only surpassed by The Lion King, released a year before Toy Story, it stands out in its hand-drawn glory. Despite the series’ evolving animation styles over its nearly 35-year history, creator Matt Groening insisted on traditional animation for the movie. He aimed for a deliberately imperfect look, paying homage to a disappearing art form.
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3. Song of the Sea showcases unparalleled hand-drawn animation in cinematic history.
Song of the Sea stands as a pinnacle of traditional animation in the CG era, showcasing unparalleled hand-crafted artistry that defies replication by computer technology. Its visually stunning animation is complemented by a rich narrative rooted in Irish folktales and magic. The story follows Ben and his sister Saoirse, a selkie, on a journey to save the spirit world. With nuanced characters and themes of family and culture, Song of the Sea combines visual beauty with narrative depth.
4. Ernest & Celestine captures the delightful, illustrated essence of a children’s book
Ernest & Celestine, an internationally co-produced animated comedy-drama, draws inspiration from Gabrielle Vincent’s beloved children’s book series. Following the friendship between a mouse, Celestine, and a bear, Ernest, the film navigates themes of friendship’s significance and the irrationality of prejudice. Its art style beautifully mirrors Vincent’s book illustrations, evoking a nostalgic, childhood joy with its charming watercolor backgrounds, resonating even with adult audiences.
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5. Spirited Away stands as the magnum opus of Hayao Miyazaki
Hayao Miyazaki, a legendary figure in animation, co-founded Studio Ghibli, a powerhouse in the animation world. His film ‘Spirited Away’ is a cinematic milestone, sharing the Golden Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival and being the sole hand-drawn animated movie to claim an Oscar for Best Animated Feature. It has earned accolades, named among the top films of the 21st century by both BBC and The New York Times, solidifying its place in cinematic history.