Top Animated Movies Of 2014: A Nostalgic Look Back

Hey animation buffs! Let's rewind the clock to 2014, a truly fantastic year for animated films. Seriously, guys, the studios really outdid themselves, delivering a diverse range of stories that appealed to everyone, from the tiniest tots to the most seasoned cinephiles. We saw big leaps in CGI, compelling narratives that tugged at our heartstrings, and characters that we still can't get out of our heads. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and let's take a deep dive into some of the best animated movies of 2014.

We're talking about a year that gave us a bit of everything. From heartwarming tales of friendship and family to action-packed adventures and even some surprisingly dark and complex narratives, 2014 had it all. The animation quality itself was often breathtaking, pushing the boundaries of what was possible on screen. Think about the intricate details in the worlds created, the fluidity of character movements, and the sheer visual spectacle that many of these films offered. It wasn't just about pretty pictures, though; the storytelling often matched the visual prowess, with scripts that were witty, emotional, and thought-provoking. Many of these films went on to become classics, beloved by audiences and critics alike, and their influence can still be felt in the animation industry today. It's a testament to the creativity and talent that was buzzing in the animation world during that specific year. We're going to explore some of the standouts, dissect what made them so special, and maybe even spark a little bit of that 2014 magic for you all over again. Get ready for a journey down memory lane, celebrating the animated masterpieces that made 2014 a landmark year for cartoons!

The Lego Movie: A Building Block of Brilliance

When The Lego Movie hit theaters in 2014, it completely blew everyone away. Honestly, who expected a movie based on LEGO bricks to be this good? It was a visual masterpiece, perfectly capturing the look and feel of LEGOs, with characters and environments that looked like they were straight out of a kid's playroom. But beyond the stunning animation that faithfully recreated the tactile joy of LEGO, it delivered a story that was surprisingly deep and incredibly funny. The film masterfully blended hilarious satire with genuine heart, tackling themes of conformity, creativity, and the importance of individual thought. Chris Pratt as Emmet was the perfect everyman, a construction worker who accidentally becomes the key to saving the LEGO universe. His journey from a rule-following drone to a heroic individual was relatable and inspiring. The movie was packed with witty dialogue, pop culture references that flew over the heads of younger viewers but delighted adults, and an unexpected philosophical twist that made us all think. The voice cast was phenomenal, with Will Ferrell as the menacing President Business and Elizabeth Banks as the tough-as-nails Wyldstyle, not to mention a show-stealing performance from Will Arnett as Batman, who became an instant fan favorite. The film's meta-commentary on storytelling and the nature of play resonated deeply, making it more than just a kids' movie; it was an experience for the whole family. The creativity poured into every frame was evident, from the stop-motion-inspired animation style to the clever integration of actual LEGO sets and minifigures. The Lego Movie proved that animation could be smart, funny, and emotionally resonant all at once, setting a high bar for animated comedies for years to come. It’s a film that you can watch over and over again and still discover new jokes and subtle details. The sheer ingenuity behind bringing the world of LEGO to life on the big screen was remarkable, and it rightfully earned its place as one of the best animated movies of 2014.

How to Train Your Dragon 2: Soaring to New Heights

Talk about a sequel that not only lived up to the original but arguably surpassed it! How to Train Your Dragon 2, released in 2014, took Hiccup and Toothless's story to epic new proportions. Set five years after the events of the first film, we find a teenage Hiccup and a fully grown Toothless exploring new lands and enjoying a peaceful coexistence between humans and dragons. The animation in this installment was absolutely breathtaking. The vast landscapes of the Arctic, the intricate designs of the various dragons, and the sheer scale of the action sequences were visually stunning. The flying scenes, in particular, were more dynamic and exhilarating than ever before. But what really made this movie shine was its emotional depth. We meet Hiccup's long-lost mother, Valka, a fierce dragon protector, and delve deeper into the complexities of his family and his destiny. The introduction of the villainous Drago Bludvist and his quest to control all dragons added a thrilling antagonist and raised the stakes considerably. The film explored mature themes of loss, family responsibility, and the struggle for peace in a world still learning to accept differences. The bond between Hiccup and Toothless was stronger and more profound than ever, serving as the emotional anchor of the entire narrative. The animation team at DreamWorks truly outdid themselves, creating a world that felt both fantastical and grounded, with characters that were expressive and believable. How to Train Your Dragon 2 is a perfect example of how animation can tell powerful, character-driven stories that resonate with audiences of all ages. It's a visually spectacular adventure with a deeply moving core, making it an undeniable standout among the animated films of 2014. The courage Hiccup shows, the loyalty of Toothless, and the broader exploration of the dragon world all contributed to a rich and satisfying cinematic experience that left a lasting impression.

Big Hero 6: A Marvelous Blend of Heart and Tech

Disney Animation Studios brought us Big Hero 6 in 2014, a film that brilliantly fused superhero action with a touching story of grief and friendship. Set in the futuristic metropolis of San Fransokyo, the movie introduces us to Hiro Hamada, a young robotics prodigy who loses his brother Tadashi in a tragic accident. Devastated, Hiro discovers that Tadashi's gentle, inflatable healthcare robot, Baymax, holds the key to uncovering a conspiracy. The animation was a visual treat, seamlessly blending the iconic architecture of San Francisco with the vibrant, futuristic aesthetic of Tokyo, creating a unique and captivating cityscape. The character designs were fantastic, especially Baymax, who managed to be both incredibly cuddly and surprisingly intimidating when needed. The action sequences were dynamic and exciting, showcasing Hiro's inventive, custom-built superhero gear. However, the true strength of Big Hero 6 lies in its emotional core. The relationship between Hiro and Baymax is incredibly moving. Baymax's unwavering dedication to helping Hiro cope with his grief and his simple, compassionate programming provide some of the film's most poignant moments. The supporting cast of quirky, super-powered friends – Go Go, Wasabi, Honey Lemon, and Fred – added humor and personality, rounding out the "Big Hero 6" team. The film tackles themes of loss, revenge, and finding purpose in a mature yet accessible way, making it a compelling watch for both kids and adults. It was a refreshing departure from traditional Disney fairy tales, offering a modern, tech-savvy narrative that felt both relevant and original. Big Hero 6 is a testament to the power of animation to explore complex emotions and deliver thrilling, action-packed entertainment. It’s a truly heartwarming and heroic adventure that captured the hearts of many in 2014. The way the film balanced its humor, action, and genuine emotional weight was masterful, solidifying its status as one of the greatest animated movies of that year.

The Tale of the Princess Kaguya: A Masterpiece of Traditional Animation

In stark contrast to the CGI-heavy blockbusters, Studio Ghibli and Isao Takahata gifted the world The Tale of the Princess Kaguya in 2014, a visually stunning and deeply melancholic film that showcased the enduring beauty of traditional hand-drawn animation. Based on the classic Japanese folktale "The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter," the movie tells the story of a magical girl found inside a bamboo stalk by an elderly couple. Kaguya grows into a breathtakingly beautiful young woman, desired by many suitors, but she longs for her simple life in the countryside. The animation style is unlike anything else you'll see. It's raw, expressive, and almost painterly, with loose brushstrokes and a vibrant, yet delicate, color palette that evokes traditional Japanese art. This unique aesthetic perfectly complements the fairy tale nature of the story, imbuing every scene with a sense of wonder and ephemeral beauty. The film is a poignant exploration of life, love, societal expectations, and the pain of growing up. Kaguya's journey from innocent joy to profound sadness is heartbreakingly rendered. Director Isao Takahata's masterful storytelling, combined with the breathtaking artistry, creates an unforgettable cinematic experience. It’s a film that requires patience and contemplation, rewarding viewers with its emotional depth and unique visual language. While it may not have had the widespread commercial appeal of some other animated films that year, The Tale of the Princess Kaguya is undoubtedly a masterpiece and a crucial addition to the best animated movies of 2014 list for its artistic merit and profound storytelling. It’s a reminder of the power and beauty of hand-drawn animation and a testament to Ghibli's unparalleled legacy. The film's ability to convey such a wide range of emotions through its unique visual style is truly remarkable, making it a profound and moving experience for anyone who appreciates artistic cinema.

Boxtrolls: A Quirky and Charming Stop-Motion Gem

Laika, the studio behind Coraline and ParaNorman, delivered another stop-motion marvel in 2014 with The Boxtrolls. This charming and peculiar film tells the story of Eggs, an orphaned boy raised by a group of quirky, trash-collecting trolls who live beneath the cobblestone streets of Cheesebridge. The animation, as expected from Laika, was absolutely incredible. The intricate detail in the character designs, the sets, and the overall stop-motion craftsmanship is a sight to behold. Cheesebridge itself is a visually rich environment, full of character and history, brought to life with meticulous attention to detail. The Boxtrolls themselves are wonderfully designed creatures, endearing despite their unconventional lifestyle. The story is a delightful blend of adventure, humor, and social commentary, exploring themes of prejudice, societal norms, and the meaning of family. Eggs' journey to fit in while staying true to himself and his troll family is both funny and heartwarming. The villain, Archibald Snatcher, a man obsessed with exterminating the Boxtrolls, provides a memorable antagonist with a surprisingly layered motivation. The voice cast, including Ben Kingsley, Elle Fanning, and Sir Ian McKellen, brought depth and personality to their characters. The Boxtrolls stands out for its unique visual style, its engaging narrative, and its underlying message about acceptance and understanding. It’s a testament to the enduring power of stop-motion animation and a brilliant example of creative storytelling, securing its place as a beloved film from the animated movies of 2014. The film’s unique blend of dark humor and genuine sweetness makes it a truly special experience, showcasing Laika's mastery of their craft. The world-building is exceptional, immersing the audience in a society that is both fantastical and relatable in its portrayal of human (and troll) nature.

Other Notable Animated Films from 2014

While the films mentioned above are certainly some of the biggest highlights, 2014 was a rich year for animation, and several other fantastic movies deserve a shout-out. DreamWorks Animation also gave us Penguins of Madagascar, a fun and action-packed spin-off that brought the lovable, albeit eccentric, penguins from the Madagascar franchise to their own spy-thriller adventure. While perhaps not as profound as some of the others, it was undeniably entertaining and a hit with fans of the series. Disney Pixar, though not releasing a completely original feature film in 2014 (they had The Good Dinosaur pushed to 2015), still contributed to the animated landscape with shorts and continued support for their established franchises. We also saw The Book of Life, a visually stunning musical from 20th Century Fox Animation and Reel FX Creative Studios. With its vibrant animation style inspired by Mexican folklore and Day of the Dead traditions, it offered a unique and colorful story about love, family, and remembrance. The film was praised for its artistic vision and its engaging musical numbers. For fans of more independent animation, films like Song of the Sea also emerged, a beautifully animated Irish fantasy film that captivated audiences with its ethereal art style and touching narrative based on Celtic mythology. These diverse offerings showcase just how dynamic the animation industry was in 2014, proving that there was something for every taste and preference. From mainstream blockbusters to artistic gems, the year was packed with creative and memorable animated features that continue to be celebrated today. Each of these films, in their own way, contributed to making 2014 a landmark year for animated cinema, offering audiences a wide array of storytelling and visual styles to enjoy. The sheer variety ensures that revisiting 2014 animated movies is always a rewarding experience.

Conclusion: A Golden Age of Animation

Looking back at 2014, it's clear that it was a truly remarkable year for animated movies. We witnessed a diverse range of styles, stories, and studios all contributing to a vibrant cinematic landscape. From the innovative CGI of The Lego Movie and Big Hero 6 to the breathtaking artistry of The Tale of the Princess Kaguya and the meticulous craft of The Boxtrolls, animation was pushing boundaries on all fronts. The films of 2014 didn't just entertain; they explored complex themes, evoked deep emotions, and created characters that have become enduring favorites. They proved that animated films are not just for children but are powerful mediums for storytelling that can resonate with audiences of all ages. The creativity, talent, and passion poured into these productions were evident, making 2014 animated movies a collection worth revisiting and celebrating. Whether you're a long-time fan of animation or just looking for some fantastic films to watch, this year offered a wealth of cinematic treasures that continue to hold up today. It was, without a doubt, a golden age for animated cinema, leaving a lasting legacy that inspires filmmakers and delights audiences worldwide. We hope this trip down memory lane has brought back some fond memories and perhaps inspired you to rewatch some of your favorite animated films from 2014!