5 best movies to watch if you like The Emoji Movie

Released in 2017, The Emoji Movie quickly became a topic of fervent discussion, though not always for reasons filmmakers might hope. Directed by Tony Leondis, the animated comedy was inspired by his appreciation for Toy Story and spun from a contemporary and digital genre of smartphone culture. Despite its innovative concept, the film met with harsh criticism, largely for its plot and perceived excessive product placements.

Critics were relentlesly comparing it unfavorably to animated hits like Inside Out and Wreck-It Ralph. Nonetheless it achieved commercial success, grossing over $217 million worldwide against a $50 million production budget, according to BoxOfficeMojo.

Its reception in the awards circuit was equally notable, albeit infamous, as it swept four out of five nominations at the 38th Golden Raspberry Awards, showing its unique place in cinema as a film so disdained it circled back to being memorable.

For fans who found charm in The Emoji Movie there are other films that share its vibrant digital aesthetic and theme of adventure within technology. Here are five films that might just resonate with those who appreciated Gene's quest through Textopolis.

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Toy Story and 4 other similar movies for The Emoji Movie fans

1. Wreck-It Ralph (2012)

Wreck-It Ralph (Image via Disney)

In Wreck-It Ralph the story revolves around Ralph, a video game villain who's tired of being the bad guy. Dreaming of becoming a hero, Ralph hops through various arcade games that causes a bit of chaos and plenty of laughs along the way.

The film resonates with The Emoji Movie in how it pulls back the curtain on the digital world, showing a vibrant cast of characters who challenge their programmed roles.

Both movies share a similar humor and a heartfelt message about identity and self-acceptance which in turn makes Wreck-It Ralph a perfect continuation for anyone who enjoyed Gene's journey in Textopolis.

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2. Inside Out (2015)

Inside Out (Image via Disney)

Inside Out takes us into the mind of Riley, who is a young girl grappling with her emotions during a difficult move. Through Joy, Sadness, and the gang, the film unpacks the struggles of feelings and personal growth.

Much like The Emoji Movie which explores Gene's emotional evolution, Inside Out offers a rich and imaginative take on the inner workings of its characters.

Fans will likely appreciate the depth and creativity that illuminate how our emotions shape who we are echoing the thematic journeys found in The Emoji Movie.

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3. The Lego Movie (2014)

The Lego Movie (Image via Warner Bros)

The Lego Movie tells the story of an ordinary Lego figure Emmet who is mistakenly believed to be an extraordinary hero destined to save the world. The film features humor and a celebration of individuality and unexpected heroism which are the themes also central to The Emoji Movie.

The colorful and blocky world of Lego provides a visually stimulating experience that complements the dynamic digital landscape of Textopolis.

So, if you enjoyed the surprises and creative spirit of Gene’s adventures The Lego Movie is likely to charm you with its wit and visually engaging storytelling.

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4. Pixels (2015)

Pixels (Image via Sony Pictures)

Pixels kicks off with a bizarre alien invasion where extraterrestrials misinterpret video feeds of classic arcade games as hostile acts that leads to earth-shattering battles with giant versions of nostalgic game characters. The movie like The Emoji Movie features the digital and real worlds in a playful action-packed plot.

Both the films cater to those who delight in seeing digital entities interacting with the real world that offers a mixture of nostalgia and contemporary relevance.

Pixels serves up a fun visually impressive romp that should resonate well with fans of Gene’s high-stakes digital world escapades.

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5. Toy Story (1995)

Toy Story (Image via Disney and Pixar)

Toy Story happens to be the pioneering computer-animated film that introduces Woody and Buzz Lightyear along with a group of toys that come to life. It explores their existence and relationships when their owner isn't looking.

The movie carved out a new path for animated storytelling much like The Emoji Movie ventured into the unexplored digital spaces of a smartphone.

Both films have gone into the lives of characters typically inanimate, imbuing them with heart and purpose. If the quirky charm and emotional depth of The Emoji Movie captured your attention, Toy Story will likely touch your heart with its enduring themes of friendship and belonging.

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The Emoji Movie is available to be streamed on Prime Video, Netflix and AppleTV+.