Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse and Across the Spider-Verse have revolutionized the world of 3D computer animation in film, captivating audiences with their visually stunning and highly stylized animation. These films introduced a new era of possibilities, pushing the boundaries of what was thought achievable in the realm of animation. Audiences were enthralled by the unique visual style that seamlessly brought the pages of a comic book to life on the big screen, creating an immersive and mesmerizing experience.
While the Spider-Verse films paved the way for stylized 3D animation, they are not alone in their innovation. Many other films, both preceding and following them, have successfully embraced and utilized this distinctive approach. As we venture into the next chapter of the animation industry, it is evident that stylized 3D animated films will continue to be at the forefront, offering exciting and one-of-a-kind storytelling experiences. This marks an exciting time for animated filmmaking, as we witness the emergence of captivating and visually striking animated tales that push the boundaries of creativity. Let's take a look at 10 animated movies like Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse.
#1. Next Avengers: Heroes of Tomorrow (2008)
Source: IMDb
You may not be aware, but there are hidden gems within the Marvel Universe in the form of animated films that you might have missed. One such film is Next Avengers: Heroes of Tomorrow, released in 2008. This installment takes us into the future, where a group of teenagers, whose parents were Avengers, are under the care of billionaire Tony Stark, also known as Iron Man. The teenagers include James Rogers, the son of Captain America and Black Widow, Henry Pym Jr., the son of Giant-Man and Wasp, Azari, the son of Black Panther and Storm, and Torunn, the daughter of Thor and Sif.
This unique group of young heroes must face challenges and find their own paths as they carry on the legacy of their legendary parents. The parent-child pairings may surprise you, showcasing an intriguing mix of characters and their offspring. Next Avengers: Heroes of Tomorrow presents an exciting and fresh take on the Marvel Universe, introducing a new generation of heroes who are destined to make their mark.
#2. Kubo and the Two Strings (2016)
Source: IMDb
If you're in the mood for an authentic stop-motion adventure, Kubo and the Two Strings is a must-watch. The story revolves around Kubo, a young boy who takes care of his mother and faces the challenges of her paralysis due to depression. As the film unfolds, you'll witness Kubo's incredible strength and reliability as a protagonist, making him a captivating character to follow.
What sets this movie apart is its stunning stop-motion animation, which adds a special touch to the story, especially when encountering the formidable villains and monsters that Kubo encounters. Beneath its lighthearted surface, Kubo and the Two Strings delves deep into themes of grief and emotional growth, offering a meaningful and thought-provoking experience. So, if you're looking for an animated film that balances adventure with a powerful message, this one should definitely be on your watchlist.
#3. Big Hero 6 (2016)
Source: Disney
Meet young Hiro, a brilliant tech prodigy who must navigate life after losing his beloved brother, Tadashi, in an explosion. As he grapples with his place in the world, Hiro faces pivotal choices.
Will he abandon his gift and live a regular life? Will he seek vengeance for Tadashi and track down the one responsible for his death? Or will he learn to process his emotions and form a heartwarming bond with Baymax, a lovable plush robot? The answer unfolds in this captivating film. With stellar animation, a perfect soundtrack, and a fresh and engaging plot, Big Hero 6 will keep you completely absorbed from start to finish.
#4. The LEGO Batman Movie (2017)
Source: IMDb
The LEGO Batman Movie hits the jackpot with its stellar cast, featuring Will Arnett as Batman and Michael Cera as Robin. This animated gem takes a delightfully silly approach, with unexpected stars stepping into iconic roles, including Zach Galifianakis as The Joker and Jenny Slate as Harley Quinn.
When The Joker willingly surrenders to the police, Batman finds himself without a purpose. To fill the void, he takes in Dick Grayson, and together, they embark on a mission to uncover The Joker's true intentions. Along the way, Batman learns the importance of family and grapples with the idea that crime-fighting could be made easier with a little assistance.
#5. Next-Gen (2018)
Source: Netflix
The heartfelt connection between a young person and a robot never fails to tug at the heartstrings, especially when their journey ends with a tearful farewell. In this futuristic world, a girl named Mai grows up in a household where robots are a constant presence, filling the void left by her absent father and assisting her overwhelmed mother.
One day, Mai discovers an attack robot named 7723, voiced by John Krasinski, and an unlikely bond forms between them. Through their misadventures and shared experiences, they create cherished memories together. As the story unfolds, you'll find yourself unexpectedly reaching for tissues as Mai learns to embrace new moments with 7723, treasuring their enduring friendship.
#6. Raya and the Last Dragon (2021)
Source: IMDb
Upon its initial release, Raya and the Last Dragon may not have garnered the same level of attention and excitement as previous Disney Princess movies. This unique fantasy film ventured into uncharted territory with a fresh and original storyline, which can sometimes be daunting for audiences. However, if you haven't watched it yet, I encourage you to give it a chance. This film contains breathtaking moments of animation that deserve recognition, captivating viewers with its stunning visuals and vibrant scenes.
In Raya and the Last Dragon, we follow the journey of a young girl named Raya, who embarks on a quest to find Sisu, the last dragon. Her mission is to restore the dragon gem and bring her father back. As Raya's adventure unfolds, you'll be immersed in a world filled with wonder and magic, where the power of friendship and determination shines through.
#7. Trollhunters: Rise of the Titans (2021)
Source: IMDb
For fans of the Netflix series Trollhunters, the release of the highly anticipated movie left some longing for a more satisfying conclusion. However, it remains a fantastic film to watch, especially if you're seeking that same sense of excitement and camaraderie that Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse provided. Rise of the Titans delivers thrilling action, a heartwarming found family dynamic, and a roster of endearing heroes.
As the final chapter of this beloved series, Rise of the Titans centers around a group of friends who fulfill their roles as courageous troll hunters. With a talented cast lending their voices, including Nick Offerman, Tom Kenny, Diego Luna, and more, the movie brings these characters to life in an unforgettable way.
#8. The Mitchells vs the Machines (2021)
Source: IMDb
Being nominated for an Oscar is a significant achievement for any animated movie, and The Mitchells vs. the Machines made waves when it hit Netflix in 2021. This exceptional animated film quickly captured the hearts of families everywhere with its delightful blend of a road trip adventure and a quirky family's mission to save the world.
At the heart of the story lies a touching father-daughter relationship, portrayed with depth and authenticity. The film explores the challenges of understanding one another and the journey towards a meaningful connection and bond. While filled with action and comedic moments, it's the film's heartfelt ending that truly resonates, leaving viewers with a warm and tender feeling.
#9. Entergalactic (2022)
Source: Netflix
Entergalactic, the visual companion film to Kid Cudi's album, offers a unique and refreshing take on the adult rom-com genre. It follows the journey of Jabari and Meadow as they meet and navigate the complexities of their relationship. Through stunning visuals, the film beautifully captures the highs and lows of their love story, portraying a deep and authentic connection between two destined souls.
While certain genres are more commonly associated with animated adaptations, Entergalactic challenges the norm by bringing the adult-oriented romantic comedy to life in an animated form. This bold choice proves to be a success as the animated format perfectly complements the romantic comedy theme, resulting in a vibrant and captivating experience. The animation style and visuals evoke a profound sense of love and empathy that would be difficult to achieve in live-action, showcasing the unique storytelling possibilities of animation.
Entergalactic stands as a testament to the potential of animation in exploring different genres and pushing boundaries. It demonstrates the power of animation to convey emotions and create a truly one-of-a-kind cinematic experience that resonates with audiences.
#10. Turning Red (2022)
Source: Disney
In Turning Red, we delve into the life of Mei, a young teenager navigating the complexities of adolescence. However, her journey takes an unexpected twist when she inherits a curse that transforms her into a gigantic red panda whenever her emotions get the best of her.
While Pixar has always been at the forefront of 3D animation, constantly pushing technological boundaries, Turning Red marks a notable departure in their animation style. This film embraces a more stylized approach, drawing inspiration from the expressive facial animations seen in 2D Ghibli films. The result is a visually unique and captivating experience that sets Turning Red apart from Pixar's previous works. This shift in style opens up exciting possibilities for more stylized animated films to come from the studio.
Turning Red not only explores the relatable challenges of teenage life but also showcases Pixar's willingness to experiment with different animation styles. It is a testament to their commitment to storytelling innovation and their ability to adapt and evolve with the ever-changing landscape of animated films.
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