Let's face it, we're all huge suckers for kids' movies at some point in our lives. Whether it's during our childhoods or all throughout our adult lives, they subconsciously play a big part in shaping us into who we are today. Studios like Disney, Nickelodeon, Dream Works, Cartoon Network and of course Pixar, are known for having animation skills that bring their characters to life on the big screen. These studios have set the highest of standards in the animation industry that will continue to evolve and change throughout the years. However, in my personal opinion, Pixar seems to have contributed the most to the success of modern animation. While I have yet to see some of Pixar's existing films, I have heard nothing but great things about everything they've released so far.
Pixar has always been a huge part of my life. From making some of my favorite movies to being the name of my sorority candidate class name, I've been influenced by the studio in so many different ways. From delivering breathtaking visuals and aesthetics to teaching lifelong lessons, Pixar never seems to disappoint their fans, no matter their age or gender.
To celebrate just how important Pixar Studios is to me, I've created a list of my 12 favorite animated films, ranked. The following movies have not only helped me through life, but they've shaped me into who I am today. These 12 are some of my all time favorite movies, and I hope that you see some of your favorites here, too!
1. "Ratatouille"
This list begins with my all-time favorite Pixar movie, "Ratatouille." This animated masterpiece took France and its culture and put it on the silver screen for the world to see, while promoting the message that you are not limited to specific dreams based on your background. Following your truest desires is something that we should all be doing, and nothing should be able to hold anyone back.
2. "Up"
Sitting at number two on my list, "Up" instantly gained popularity when the movie made audiences everywhere bawl tears during the first 15 minutes of its running. Teaching viewers that it's okay to let go, this movie also incorporates stunning usage of colors and sound effects to tell a heartwarming story.
3. "Finding Nemo"
Finding its place within my top three favorite Pixar movies, "Finding Nemo" goes about an unorthodox way (at the time) of telling a story with animals with natural proportions rather than those who are anthropomorphic or lazily using humans instead. This movie will remain a classic for a while, and will continue to being families closer together.
4. "The Incredibles"
I've never been one to argue that original movies will always be better than sequels, but in most cases, it's true. Taking place in the early 60s, "The Incredibles" rose to fame by having plenty of action while also appealing to families and children everywhere.
5. "Cars"
Another original making a higher rank than its third part, "Cars" instantly became popular upon its release, thanks to Owen Wilson's famous line and Lightning McQueen's catchphrase, "Kachow."
6. "Toy Story"
Surprise, surprise. Another original passing its sequel in my rankings of movies! While the third installment also made this list, it won't ever surpass the first. "Toy Story" made history by being the first full-length CGI animated film in the movie industry. This movie will always be a classic, and will more than likely stay popular for a longer time than we believe it will.
7. "Monsters University"
"Monsters University" has a huge theme of being true to yourself and making the best of your current situation while doing what you can to live your happiest life. The path you chose to travel down may diverge, or it could shove you onto a whole new road completely, but your goal is still the same; finding your own happiness with the help and guidance of those close to you.
8. "Brave"
Released in 2012, "Brave" played a very important part in teaching young girls that they don't need to rely on any kind of guy in order to have a happy ending. It proved that some traditions were meant to be broken, and there was nothing wrong with being your own Prince Charming sometimes.
9. "Inside Out"
Though this one is not as big as it was when it was released, it's fair to say that it definitely earned a spot on this list. "Inside Out" opened the door to helping society understand more about mental health, and taught kids all over the world that it's OK to accept and express your feelings.
10. "Incredibles 2"
During the summer of 2018, everyone's life changed for the absolute best. After nearly 15 years, animation fans finally received the sequel they've been waiting for. "Incredibles 2" was the pinnacle of the movie revolution. With so much anticipation built up from fans, it's no wonder that this movie was held to such a high standard.
11. "Toy Story 3"
I grew up with the first two "Toy Story" movies in my film rotation, which really only consisted of seven or eight other movies, meaning I watched them a lot. I was twelve years old when "Toy Story 3" came out in theaters, and despite me being in the middle of my edgy 'don't look at me' phase, I was almost first in line to buy tickets to see it. This movie still has an affect on my life today, as like Andy, I am now a college student who had to face the reality of moving on from my childhood.
12. "Cars 3"
Owen Wilson made his third and (hopefully) final appearance on the big screen as the iconic sticker-studded race car. While some would argue that movies get worse as the series goes on, I truly believe that the third installment of the "Cars" franchise is so much better than the second.
These 12 movies mean the world to millions of people around the world. Pixar has not only created the standard for animation, but they continue to push the boundaries of what they can accomplish with every release. Rather than playing it safe with ideas or concepts that are basic/generic in nature, they always choose abstract and somewhat challenging narratives that will have the viewers visually and emotionally invested in the product that they are viewing.
Pixar will continue to push the boundaries for both the animation and entertainment industries. Using their methods of business, animation, and entertainment, Pixar will entertain audiences for generations to come. Whether the studio is creating new characters and worlds or continuing a story from its last checkpoint, there is no doubt that they'll leave an impression on anyone who turns their head in that direction.
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