Best Animated Movies 2025: Full List of Must-See Films

Discover the best animated movies 2025 has to offer! From sequels to originals, explore what's coming to theaters and streaming. Full watchlist included!

The animation world never sleeps, and if you're a fan of imaginative storytelling, jaw-dropping visuals, or family-friendly entertainment, the best animated movies 2025 are about to blow your mind. Whether you're into 3D masterpieces, traditional hand-drawn gems, or edgy animated comedies, 2025 is set to be a landmark year for animation.

This guide highlights everything you need to know about the best animated movies 2025—from confirmed release dates and production studios to movie themes, expected ratings, and more. Whether you're looking for something to enjoy with kids or you're an adult animation fan, this list is your go-to source for animated movie fun.

Why 2025 Will Be Huge for Animated Films

The best animated movies 2025 are not just sequels to long-time favorites. They're also original stories from both big studios and indie creators who are pushing the boundaries of animation.

Studios like Pixar, Disney, DreamWorks, Illumination, and Netflix Animation have already announced several promising titles. On top of that, international creators from Japan, France, and South Korea are bringing unique flavors to this year’s animation lineup.

Here’s why 2025 is being hailed as the golden year for animation:

🎬 Return of major animated franchises

🎨 Rise in adult-themed animated content

🌍 Global collaborations in storytelling and design

📺 Dual theater & streaming releases for flexibility

👨‍👩‍👧 Family content paired with deeper, universal themes

Let’s dive into the best animated movies 2025 you should start watching out for.

Top 15 Best Animated Movies 2025 (Confirmed & Rumored)

Here’s our curated list of the best animated movies 2025 based on confirmed announcements and insider buzz.

1. Inside Out 2 (Pixar/Disney)

After the emotional success of the first film, Pixar returns with another introspective journey through the mind of a now-teenage Riley. Easily one of the best animated movies 2025 to watch with the entire family.

2. Shrek 5 (DreamWorks Animation)

Shrek is back! The long-awaited return of the green ogre and his fairytale friends makes this sequel one of the most talked-about best animated movies 2025 across social platforms.

3. Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse (Sony Animation)

Following the success of Into the Spider-Verse and Across the Spider-Verse, this next installment is set to conclude the trilogy in groundbreaking style.

4. Minions: Rise of Gru 2 (Illumination)

Everyone’s favorite yellow mischief-makers return in what promises to be one of the highest-grossing and funniest best animated movies 2025 for all ages.

5. Wish Dragon 2 (Netflix Animation)

A sequel to the surprise 2021 hit, Wish Dragon 2 continues its heartfelt story rooted in Chinese mythology and contemporary life.

Most Anticipated Originals Among the Best Animated Movies 2025

While sequels are great, 2025 is also packed with best animated movies 2025 that are completely original. Here are a few that are gaining buzz:

6. The Forest Song (DreamWorks)

Set in a mythical Eastern European forest, this enchanting tale brings folklore and environmentalism together—an expected award contender.

7. Project Moonlight (Pixar - Rumored)

Though not yet titled officially, Pixar’s "Project Moonlight" is teased as a coming-of-age story set in outer space.

8. Echoes of the Sun (Netflix Original Animation)

Netflix continues its animation streak with this original tale blending ancient myths and futuristic landscapes.

These movies are proof that the best animated movies 2025 aren’t just relying on franchise names—they’re innovating boldly.

Best Animated Movies 2025 from Around the World

The global scene is just as exciting. The best animated movies 2025 are coming from all corners of the globe:

• Japan: Studio Ghibli and MAPPA are reportedly working on new projects after the success of The Boy and the Heron.
• France: Look out for Little Nicholas: The Next Chapter — a continuation of the beloved French character.
• South Korea: The edgy and stylish Seoul Shadow is already making festival rounds.

Including international titles in your watchlist ensures you're exploring the full scope of what the best animated movies 2025 truly offer.

Family-Friendly Best Animated Movies 2025

Looking for something that’s perfect for all ages? These best animated movies 2025 will be wholesome and entertaining:

• Frozen 3 (Disney) – While not confirmed for 2025, early production reports suggest a winter release could happen.
• Trolls World Re-Tour (DreamWorks) – Colorful, musical, and charming as ever.
• My Father the Space Cowboy – A heartwarming intergalactic father-daughter tale.

Family entertainment will dominate many of the best animated movies 2025, especially with streaming-first releases from Disney+ and Peacock.

Where to Watch the Best Animated Movies 2025

Thanks to evolving release models, you’ll be able to catch the best animated movies 2025 in various ways:

• Theatrical Releases: Big blockbusters like Inside Out 2 will hit theaters first.
• Streaming Platforms: Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and Prime Video are lined up with animation exclusives.
• Premium On-Demand: Early home access for some titles.

You can stay ahead by checking trusted movie platforms such as:

• Rotten Tomatoes Animation Movies
• IMDb’s 2025 Animation Watchlist
• Animation World Network

These platforms constantly update information about the best animated movies 2025 and provide trailers, reviews, and streaming details.

Trends Shaping the Best Animated Movies 2025

Let’s take a look at what makes the best animated movies 2025 stand out:

• Stylized Animation – The use of mixed media, like in Spider-Verse, is growing.
• Adult Themes in Animation – More content addresses serious topics like identity, grief, and mental health.
• Cultural Representation – Authentic voices telling stories rooted in their cultures is a hallmark of modern animation.
• AI in Animation – New tools are changing how animation is created, speeding up production and enhancing detail.

Fun Facts About the Best Animated Movies 2025

• The budget for Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse reportedly surpasses $150 million.
• Shrek 5 was delayed for over a decade—2025 is its long-awaited comeback.
• Netflix is aiming to release over 8 animated features in 2025 alone.

How to Plan Your Watchlist for the Best Animated Movies 2025

Make the most of the best animated movies 2025 by organizing your own viewing strategy:

✅ Use streaming service reminders

✅ Create a shared family watchlist

✅ Host themed movie nights

✅ Follow studio social channels for exclusive sneak peeks

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Be Excited About the Best Animated Movies 2025

The best animated movies 2025 aren’t just entertainment—they're art, culture, emotion, and creativity rolled into one. Whether you’re reliving childhood nostalgia or discovering a bold new animated universe, there’s something in 2025’s lineup for everyone.

From thrilling sequels to innovative originals, from laugh-out-loud comedies to tearjerking dramas, the world of animation has never looked brighter. So get your popcorn ready and your watchlist updated—it’s going to be an incredible ride.