The 90s is one of the most influential sources of nostalgia in modern-day pop culture. It was a transitioning period for media — technology beganpropelling animation forward, and the decade gave way to some of the most recognizable fictional characters ever. It was a simpler time: Disney animations were goldmines, Saturday morning cartoons were sacred, and kids couldn’t wait to get home and pop their favorite movie into the VHS player.
In terms of thebest 90s movies, it was an unforgettable decade for animation. As computer animation began to blossom and creators found more effective ways to turn storyboards into immersive experiences, we saw a slew of incredible movies that are still popular today. Let’s revisit some of the best animated films from the 90s and see how they stack up.
Related:Best Animated Movies from the 80s, Ranked
10Space Jam
At one point, you might not have believed thatanimation and live-action could mixon-screen. EnterSpace Jam! Released in 1996, we see Michael Jordan as he chooses to retire from his successful basketball career. However, things take an unexpected turn when the Looney Tunes sweep him away and plead for his help in a basketball game against a team of alien monsters. The premise is as wacky as they come, and the way the creators lean into the chaos is honestly perfect.
9Beauty and the Beast
A tale as old as time,Beauty and the Beastis one of the most endearing love stories in animated history, and we’ve all rewatched it repeatedly since its release in 1991. Unbeknownst to the prince-turned-beast, the lovely Belle yearns for more than a settled life in her little hometown. When Belle volunteers to take her father’s place as the Beast’s prisoner in an enchanted castle, the two gradually build a friendship that blossoms into genuine love — one strong enough to break a decades-old curse.
8The Prince of Egypt
Something about the animation style of 1998’sThe Prince of Egyptstill makes us catch our breath. This mesmerizing rendition of the story of Moses is presented in a new light: we watch him grow up as the adoptive brother of Ramses, who is set to inherit the kingdom of Egypt. Their relationship is at the forefront of the story, and we see them take different paths as Moses begins to fight for the freedom of the Jewish people.
7Perfect Blue
A more adult entry on the list,Perfect Bluewas released in 1997 and left audiences enthralled and baffled for years. We meet Mima, a J-pop idol who experiences an identity crisis after starting a turbulent acting career. When some of her coworkers become victims of murder, she realizes her mental instability may be affecting her more than she lets on. The mystery will have you on the edge of your seat until the very end, and seeing Mima reclaim herself is a victory we can all appreciate.
6Anastasia
Long confused as part of the Disney princess roster,1997’sAnastasiais actually aDon Bluth moviethat focuses on the young Grand Duchess of Russia. Young Anastasia barely escapes a curse from the sorcerer Rasputin, though she develops amnesia in her attempt to get out of the palace; when she turns 18, she sets off on an adventure to find her long-lost family. Our titular heroine is absolutely lovable, and her coming-of-age story is filled with heart, genuine love and a dazzling animation style.
5The Nightmare Before Christmas
Tim Burton fans can account for the unbridled fun and whimsy of the 1993 holiday filmThe Nightmare Before Christmas. We first meet Pumpkin King Jack in Halloweentown after a massive celebration but quickly learn that he’s disenchanted by his predictable lifestyle. When he mistakenly wanders into Christmastown, he falls in love and decides to take over the holiday for himself. His fellow Halloween harbingers get involved in the festivities, and their songs are impossible not to sing along to. The claymation is positively charming, and the terrifying residents of Halloweentown are unexpectedly wholesome.
Related:5 Best Tim Burton Movis, Ranked
4Toy Story
Toy Storywas a huge milestone for Pixar in 1995, and it continues to be a fan favorite across the globe. Out of all the toys in young Andy’s bedroom, Woody was always the favorite — until Buzz Lightyear showed up. After they go missing, we follow Woody and Buzz as they journey to get back home before moving day. The voice cast is simply phenomenal, and many of the franchise’s most quotable moments come from this film.
3Princess Mononoke
It’s hard to pick a favorite Studio Ghibli movie, but 1997’sPrincess Mononokeis easily one of the best. Prince Ashitaka finds himself cursed by a demon while defending his village, and he quickly ventures west in hopes of finding a cure. Along the way, he meets plenty of unforgettable characters, including the namesake wolf princess herself. The film offers a crucial lesson on deforestation and neglecting the planet, and Ashitaka’s relationship with San is just wonderful.
2The Iron Giant
Though it performedpoorly at the box office,The Iron Giantis now a beloved classic that took viewers on an adventurous emotional roller coaster upon release in 1999. The story introduces Hogarth Hughes, a bright young boy who befriends an enormous alien robot during the Cold War. It takes no time at all for the Iron Giant to win over viewers, and the ending is still enough to leave us in tears. No wonder it was nominated for so many awards!
1The Lion King
Is there anyone that wouldn’t start belting along at the opening notes of ‘Circle of Life’ inThe Lion King? This 1994 Disney rendition ofHamlethas everything — a rich, colorful world populated by memorable characters, a captivating story, a gorgeous soundtrack and voice talent for days. Watching young Simba as he struggles to cope with his father’s death only to finally return home as the king his pride needs still gives us chills.
