You can never go wrong with the classics

Animation has been a long-standing, widely beloved genre in film. Adored by viewers of all ages, its impact can be seen throughout many generations across the world.

In celebration of International Animation Day, here are 10 classic animation films you might want to add to your watchlists, in case you haven’t already watched them. So grab your popcorn, take a seat, and watch some good ole’ animation and storytelling.

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“Shrek” (2001)

Humor with a heart is the best way to describe the “Shrek” movie. Even to this day, with Shrek memes littered across the internet, the movie’s impact cannot be denied. The movie follows an ogre named Shrek who has lived all his grouchy life alone, away from the colorful world of other fairytale creatures. However, his peaceful life is suddenly upturned when his swamp gets invaded by a horde of banished magical creatures. Upset, he makes a deal with the evil Lord Farquaad to save a princess locked in a dragon-guarded tower. 

“Shrek” is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play.

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“Spirited Away” (2001)

Studio Ghibli has given us nothing but timeless classics. However for this list, “Spirited Away” would be the best representative as it embodies the perfect depiction of nostalgia and melancholy. It is about a young girl named Chihiro who discovers an abandoned theme park with her family in a mysterious spirit world. After her parents turn into pigs, Chihiro is left to navigate the mysterious world on her own.

“Spirited Away” is available to stream on Netflix.

“Hercules” (1997)

Inspired by the story of actual Greek gods, Disney’s “Hercules” follows the story of the demigod Hercules. He was kidnapped as a baby by Hades, all because of his selfish, evil plans to take over Mount Olympus. Hercules, raised as a mortal on Earth, has strangely felt out of place. After he discovers his divine roots, he wants to prove his worth and earn his place as a god.

“Hercules” is available to stream on Disney+.

“The Lion King” (1994)

Another Disney cult classic on the International Animation Day list is “The Lion King.” In the Jungle, the mighty jungle, the lion sleeps tonight. It follows young lion cub Simba, as the heir to the throne following the footsteps of his Father, the Lion King, Mufasa. However, tragedy ensues when Mufasa passes away, and Mufasa’s brother Scar assumes the throne. Young Simba must assume the role and bear the responsibility of being king, continuing the Circle of life.

“The Lion King” is available to stream on Disney+.

“Monsters, Inc.” (2001)

Just like Roz says, “I’m watching you Wazowski, always watching, always,” we are always watching “Monsters, Inc.” The movie follows the adventures of Sully and Mike Wazowski, two monsters that work for Monsters, Inc., which powers the city from the fears of little children. So when a little child like Boo accidentally enters the Monster World, Sulley and Mike are in a bit of a pinch.

“Monsters, Inc.” is available to stream on Disney+.

“Toy Story (1995)”

“Toy Story” is the first of the iconic Toy Story movie franchise. The movie introduces the possibility of the secret life of toys. It follows Woody and Buzz Lightyear’s adventures together as Andy’s toys. The duo accidentally separates from Andy while moving houses. Although they dislike each other, they must work together to return to their owner.  As they try to find their way back to Andy, they learn that friendship and teamwork are important despite their differences. 

“Toy Story” is available to stream on Disney+.

“Ratatouille” (2007)

The Disney classic follows Remy, a rat who loves to cook, and Alfredo Linguini , a garbage boy at a restaurant. Now, how can a rat dream to become a chef in the culinary capital of the world, you ask? Well, you hide inside a chef’s hat and control the chef. It’s a fun and lighthearted watch for International Animation Day. Not to mention, the movie teaches an important lesson on passion and creativity. 

“Ratatouille” is available to stream on Disney+.

“Up” (2009)

“Thanks for the adventure—now go have a new one! Love, Ellie” is a line that Carl’s wife Ellie leaves him after her death. Carl, in an attempt not to be taken to a retirement home, flies his house up in the air attaching thousands of colorful balloons to his house, accidentally taking young Russell with him to Paradise Falls. Change is inevitable, and this is something that almost eight-decades-old Carl only remembers after going on a very spontaneous journey up in the air from nine-year-old Boy Scout Russell. 

“Up” is available to stream on Disney+.