The Best Animated Pixar Movies to Win the Oscar
Pixar has long been known for its animated films that go beyond just being a fun story offering memorable characters and entertainment. Throughout the years, their films have earned multiple awards, but none more prestigious than the best animated feature Oscar. Winning an academy award for their stories is the ultimate seal of approval for a Pixar movie and since their debut in 1995, only eleven of their films have taken home the honored award. For those who are looking for a fantastic movie to watch, these are the best Pixar movies to win the Oscar for best animated feature.
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Up (2009):
Directed by Pete Docter and Bob Peterson, 2009’s Up tells the story of an old man determined to find a way to fulfill his late wife’s last wish. Boasting a thrilling adventure and lovely visuals, Up was the first Pixar film to ever release in Disney Digital 3D and it earned overwhelmingly positive reviews becoming the only Pixar movie to be nominated for the Best Picture Oscar that year. Furthermore, the film took home the Best Animated Feature Oscar and its two nominations won the Academy Award for Best Original Score and Best Original Song. -
Toy Story 3 (2010):
The third installment of the beloved Toy Story franchise, 2010’s Toy Story 3 shifted the focus to Woody, Buzz and the others facing being forgotten. Produced by Jonas Rivera, Toy Story 3 was emotional and powerful, dealing with a story of growing up, and just like it’s two predecessors, it won the Oscar for Best Animated Feature. Additionally, the film also won the Golden Globe for Best Animated Feature Film and was nominated for other awards such as Best Picture. -
Inside Out (2015):
Gaining a massive response from critics and audiences, 2015’s Inside Out follows eleven-year-old Riley as she faces new emotions and struggles with growing up. Directed by Pete Docter, who also directed Up, Inside Out earned a nomination for Best Picture at the Oscars and ultimately won the Best Animated Feature Oscar. It was also nominated for three Golden Globe Awards including Best Animated Feature Film. -
Coco (2017):
Coco, directed by Lee Unkrich and Adrian Molina, follows 12-year-old Miguel in his pursuit to face his family issues and fulfill his dream of becoming a musician. Intensely emotional, Coco also introduced colorful visuals as it explored the themes of family, remembrance, and death. The film was praised by fans, with many crediting it for being adventurous, daring, and unexpectedly life-changing. By being impactful, the film was also recognized by the Academy and the Golden Globe, winning both the Best Animated Feature Oscar and Golden Globe for Best Animated Feature Film. -
Toy Story 4 (2019):
The fourth installment of the famous Toy Story franchise, Toy Story 4 was a hit from the moment it released. Its story focuses on the emotional journey of Woody as he handles his significant mission to ensure that his old pal, Forky, fits in with the rest of the toys. Directed by Josh Cooley, Toy Story 4 was the first Pixar feature to be presented in Dolby Cinema and won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature as well as being nominated for other awards. -
Soul (2020):
Soul, released in 2020, was the most recent Pixar movie to win the Oscar for the best animated feature. Directed by Pete Docter and co-directed by Kemp Powers, Soul follows the story of a middle-school music teacher named Joe Gardner, who is accidentally transported to another world after a near death experience. The themes of the movie revolved around life, music, and death, making it heart-wrenching, profound, and an overall satisfying experience. The film’s success won it the Academy Award, along with nominations and wins from the Golden Globe and Critics’ Choice Award.
Pixar continues to impress their devoted viewers from around the world with their own unique storytelling and amazing creativity. This list of the best Pixar movies to win the Oscar for best animated feature showcases the studio’s impressive work and is bound to leave viewers wanting for more. Whether someone loves a moving adventure, an emotional journey, or even just a fun experience, these movies are sure to entertain.
