80s Animated Movies
As an avid fan of animated movies, I have always been fascinated by the evolution of the genre over the years. One decade that stands out for me is the 1980s, which saw a surge in the production of animated movies. In this article, I will take you on a trip down memory lane as we explore the best 80s animated movies. From classic films that defined the decade to underrated gems that deserve more recognition, we will cover it all.
Introduction to 80s animated movies
The 1980s was a decade of significant change, not only in the film industry but also in the world at large. It was a time of political unrest, technological advancements, and cultural shifts. Animated movies of the time reflected these changes, with filmmakers using the medium to entertain, educate, and inspire.
The rise of animated movies in the 1980s can be attributed to several factors. For one, advances in animation technology made it easier and more cost-effective to produce animated films. Additionally, the success of movies such as Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” and “Beauty and the Beast” helped to popularize the genre and demonstrate its potential for commercial success.
Classic 80s animated movies that defined the decade
The 1980s gave us some of the most iconic animated movies of all time. These films not only entertained audiences but also set the standard for what animated movies could be. Here are some of the classic 80s animated movies that defined the decade:
The Land Before Time (1988)
“The Land Before Time” tells the story of a young dinosaur named Littlefoot who embarks on a journey to find the Great Valley, a place where dinosaurs can live in peace. The film was a commercial success and spawned several sequels.
The Little Mermaid (1989)
“The Little Mermaid” is a classic Disney fairy tale about a mermaid named Ariel who dreams of living on land. The film was a critical and commercial success and is credited with reviving the Disney animation studio.
The Secret of NIMH (1982)
“The Secret of NIMH” is a fantasy film about a field mouse named Mrs. Brisby who seeks the help of a group of intelligent rats to save her home from destruction. The film received critical acclaim for its animation and storytelling.
Cult favorites: Underrated 80s animated movies worth watching
While the classic 80s animated movies are widely recognized, there are several underrated gems that deserve more attention. These films may not have been commercial successes, but they have developed a cult following over the years. Here are some of the underrated 80s animated movies worth watching:
The Last Unicorn (1982)
“The Last Unicorn” is a fantasy film about a unicorn who sets out on a journey to discover why she is the last of her kind. The film is known for its beautiful animation and haunting score.
An American Tail (1986)
“An American Tail” tells the story of a young mouse named Fievel who emigrates from Russia to America in search of a better life. The film was a commercial success and received critical acclaim for its animation and storytelling.
The Brave Little Toaster (1987)
“The Brave Little Toaster” is a heartwarming film about a group of household appliances who embark on a journey to find their owner. The film has developed a cult following for its memorable characters and catchy songs.
Iconic characters from 80s animated movies
The 1980s gave us some of the most iconic animated characters of all time. From the lovable E.T. to the mischievous Gizmo, these characters captured the hearts of audiences everywhere. Here are some of the most iconic characters from 80s animated movies:
E.T. (1982)
“E.T.” is a science fiction film about a young boy who befriends an extraterrestrial and helps him return home. The film was a critical and commercial success and is considered one of the greatest films ever made.
Gizmo (1984)
“Gizmo” is a character from the horror-comedy film “Gremlins.” Gizmo is a cute and cuddly creature that is transformed into a mischievous gremlin when exposed to water.
Optimus Prime (1984)
“Optimus Prime” is the leader of the Autobots in the animated series “Transformers.” He is known for his bravery, wisdom, and selflessness.
The impact of 80s animated movies on pop culture
The impact of 80s animated movies on pop culture cannot be overstated. These films not only entertained audiences but also inspired a generation of filmmakers, artists, and writers. From the music of “The Little Mermaid” to the fashion of “The Breakfast Club,” 80s animated movies have left an indelible mark on our culture.
Where to watch 80s animated movies today
If you’re looking to relive the magic of 80s animated movies, there are several streaming services that offer a wide selection of films. Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ are all great options for watching classic and underrated 80s animated movies.
Top 10 must-watch 80s animated movies
To help you narrow down your watchlist, here are the top 10 must-watch 80s animated movies:
- The Little Mermaid (1989)
- The Land Before Time (1988)
- The Secret of NIMH (1982)
- An American Tail (1986)
- The Brave Little Toaster (1987)
- The Last Unicorn (1982)
- Transformers: The Movie (1986)
- Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988)
- Akira (1988)
- Castle in the Sky (1986)
Honorable mentions: Other notable 80s animated movies
While the top 10 list covers the cream of the crop, there are several other notable 80s animated movies worth mentioning. These films may not have made the cut, but they are still worth watching. Here are some honorable mentions:
- The Fox and the Hound (1981)
- The Great Mouse Detective (1986)
- All Dogs Go to Heaven (1989)
- The Secret of the Sword (1985)
- The Black Cauldron (1985)
Conclusion: The lasting legacy of 80s animated movies
The 1980s was a decade of significant change, and animated movies of the time reflected these changes. From classic films that defined the decade to underrated gems that deserve more recognition, 80s animated movies have left an indelible mark on our culture. As we look back on these films, we are reminded of the power of storytelling and the magic of animation.
