Pixar movies have become synonymous with storytelling that appeals to all ages. From tales of unlikely friendships to explorations of love, courage, and self-discovery, its films have captivated audiences worldwide. Each release brings something fresh and imaginative, making Pixar one of the most beloved studios.
This list celebrates the ten most popular Pixar movies, ranked based on their Rotten Tomatoes' Tomatometer scores, showcasing the critical acclaim and cultural impact. Movies like WALL-E and Finding Nemo have set benchmarks for storytelling, while those like Coco and Soul have redefined how animation explores complex themes.
Toy Story, Finding Nemo, Inside Out, and more top-rated Pixar movies
1) Toy Story (100%)
Toy Story marked the first fully-computer animated feature film by Pixar. Changing the animation landscape forever, the movie introduced audiences to Woody (voiced by Tom Hanks), Buzz Lightyear (voiced by Tim Allens), and a colorful group of toys that come to life when humans aren’t around.
The story of rivalry turning into friendship between Woody and Buzz is both heartwarming and timeless. With its innovative use of CGI and universal themes of belonging and change, Toy Story remains a cornerstone of Pixar’s legacy.
2) Finding Nemo (99%)
Finding Nemo takes viewers on an underwater adventure that captures the bond between a father and his son. When young Nemo gets captured by divers, his overprotective father, Marlin, teams up with the forgetful Dory to navigate the ocean in search of him.
Among Pixar movies, Finding Nemo stands out for its vibrant underwater world and unforgettable characters. Its themes of perseverance and trust resonate with children and adults, making this film a standout hit.
3) Inside Out (98%)
Inside Out is a great example of how Pixar movies approach complex topics. Exploring the emotions that shape human experiences, the movie offers a unique perspective on growing up. The story takes place inside the mind of 11-year-old Riley.
In Riley's mind, her emotions—Joy (voiced by Amy Poehler), Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust—navigate the challenges of her family’s move to a new city. The film's insightful portrayal of human feelings have earned it critical acclaim. It also gives a touching reminder of how every emotion has a role to play in life.
4) Up (98%)
Up opens with one of the most memorable sequences in Pixar movies' history. The opening montage sequence starts with a camera flash at protagonist Carl and Ellie's wedding and then a series of Polaroid home movies play, depicting the couple's journey together. It sets the tone for a heartfelt adventure.
The story of Up follows a widowed old man, Carl, who fulfills his late wife Ellie’s dream by attaching thousands of balloons to his house and flying to South America. Along the way, he’s joined by a young Wilderness Explorer, Russell, and a quirky bird named Kevin. The mix of humor, heart, and adventure, coupled with colorful visuals, has made this film a classic.
5) Coco (97%)
Coco is one of the most culturally rich Pixar movies, celebrating family and traditions. This movie dives into a Mexican festival called Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). It follows Miguel, a young aspiring musician, who accidentally enters the Land of the Dead and uncovers long-lost family secrets.
The film’s enchanting visuals, music, and focus on the importance of family connections have made it a global favorite out of all Pixar movies. It conveys the universal message of remembering the loved ones even after they are gone.
6) The Incredibles (97%)
The Incredibles showcases how Pixar movies seamlessly combine action-packed adventures with family dynamics. It brings a fresh twist to the genre, following the Parr family, where each member has superpowers. The movie depicts how this family struggles to balance their everyday lives with their extraordinary abilities.
The dynamic characters and action sequences make the film appealing to superhero enthusiasts as well as family audiences. The way in which it explores teamwork and individuality remains a core part of the movie's charm.
7) Ratatouille (96%)
A rat with a dream of becoming a chef might sound unconventional, but Ratatouille delivers a tale about passion and perseverance. Remy (voiced by Patton Oswalt), a rat with an exceptional sense of taste, teams up with a clumsy young cook, Linguini, to create culinary masterpieces in a Parisian restaurant.
Its message that greatness can come from unexpected places makes it a standout entry in this list of Pixar movies.
8) Monsters, Inc. (96%)
Monsters, Inc. is a classic in the lineup of Pixar movies, blending humor, creativity, and emotional storytelling. It introduces a world where monsters generate energy by scaring children, only to discover that laughter is far more powerful.
The friendship between Mike Wazowski and Sulley is at the heart of the story, alongside their bond with Boo, a human girl who accidentally enters the monster world. The film depicts monsters in a unique way. While some are cute and furry, others are one-eyed or have multiple limbs.
9) WALL-E (95%)
A futuristic love story with a message about caring for the environment, WALL-E uses minimal dialogue and powerful visuals to tell its tale. It follows WALL-E, a small robot cleaning up an abandoned Earth, who meets EVE, a sleek robot sent to find signs of life.
They embark on a journey together across the galaxy, which highlights themes of connection and sustainability. The film’s emotional depth and captivating animation have made it a hit with fans and critics, making it one of the most popular Pixar movies.
10) Soul (95%)
Soul is one of the most introspective Pixar movies, exploring life's purpose and small moments of joy. With deep themes of purpose and passion, it unfolds the story of Joe Gardner (voiced by Jamie Foxx), a middle-school music teacher with dreams of becoming a jazz performer.
After an unexpected accident sends his soul to the 'Great Before' (a place inhabiting unborn souls), Joe learns profound lessons about appreciating life’s small moments. With its exquisite visuals, jazz-inspired soundtrack, and thoughtful narrative, the film connects with those seeking meaning in their everyday lives.
Pixar movies continue to inspire and entertain by blending stunning animation with relatable stories. Whether celebrating family, exploring emotions, or chasing dreams, Pixar movies show the power of storytelling and life’s connections.