The Top Animated Films of the 1990s

The 1990s was an exciting time for animation, with many films that broke new ground both artistically and technologically. 

Who could forget the buzz around the release of ‘Toy Story’? The first feature-length animated film that was created entirely by Computer Generated Imagery (CGI).

In this article

1. The Era of Computer Animation
2. Technological Advancements in Animation
3. The Impact of the ‘90s on Animation History
4. The Disney Renaissance
5. Beauty and the Beast (1991)
6. Aladdin (1992)
7. The Lion King (1994)
8. Pocahontas (1995)
9. Hercules (1997)
10. Mulan (1998)
11. Tarzan (1999)
12. Non-Disney Animated Classics
13. An American Tail: Fievel Goes West (1991)
14. FernGully: The Last Rainforest (1992)
15. The Prince of Egypt (1998)

The decade saw the rise of the “Disney Renaissance”, a period of unprecedented creativity and success for the studio. But it also witnessed the emergence of non-Disney animated classics that remain popular to this day. 

In this article, we will explore the top animated films of the 1990s, from the iconic Disney movies to the lesser-known gems of the era.

The Era of Computer Animation

The 1990s was a significant era for the animation industry. 

In this decade, animation technology experienced rapid development and, with the birth of new computer graphics techniques, it was possible to create more lifelike and engaging animations. 

This resulted in a wave of animated films that appealed not only to kids but also adults, creating a new market for animated movies. The impact of the 1990s on animation history cannot be overstated, and the films produced during that decade remain highly regarded as some of the best animation works of all time.

Technological Advancements in Animation

During the 1990s, the animation industry witnessed an explosion of technological advancement that revolutionized the art form. 

Traditional 2D animation gave way to 3D computer-generated animation, and studios around the world began adopting new techniques to create some of the most memorable and innovative animated films in history. 

This era saw the use of cutting-edge technology that enabled animators and artists to experiment with new ideas and techniques, resulting in films that pushed the boundaries of what was possible.

One of the most significant technological advancements during this era was the development of computer graphics software. This software allowed animators to create highly detailed and complex characters and environments that were impossible to achieve with traditional animation techniques. 

Pixar Animation Studios was at the forefront of this revolution, creating groundbreaking films such as ‘Toy Story’ and ‘A Bug’s Life’ that showcased the power of computer-generated animation.

The development of motion capture technology was also a game-changer for the animation industry. This technology allowed animators to capture the movements of real actors and use them to create more realistic and lifelike characters.

The Impact of the ‘90s on Animation History

It’s easy to get nostalgic; but when it comes to this era of animation, it’s understandable.

The 1990s was a pivotal period in animation history. It set the stage for animation’s future, and the decade is still studied and celebrated for the incredible films that were produced. The decade saw a resurgence in the popularity of animation, and it also created new opportunities for filmmakers to explore different genres and storytelling styles. It was a decade that changed the way people thought about animation and demonstrated just how powerful the medium could be.

The success of films such as ‘The Lion King’, ‘Beauty and the Beast’, and ‘Aladdin’ showed that animated films could be just as successful and profitable as live-action films. This led to a new era of animation where studios invested more money and resources into creating high-quality animated films.

The 1990s also saw the emergence of new animation studios to compete with Pixar and Disney like DreamWorks Animation and Blue Sky Studios. These studios built on the foundations laid by Pixar and Disney but continued to push the boundaries of what was possible.

The Disney Renaissance

So you have the history of this decade, now let’s look at some of the most iconic animated films from the ‘90s.

You can’t talk about this time without mentioning “The Disney Renaissance”.

The Disney Renaissance was a period of growth and expansion for Disney animation during the 1990s. The studio produced some of its most iconic and influential films during this time, setting the standard for animated movies for years to come. The following is a list of the top Disney Renaissance films from the 1990s:

Beauty and the Beast (1991)

Beauty and the Beast is often considered the best of the Disney Renaissance films. 

The movie was the first animated feature to be nominated for Best Picture at the Academy Awards and won two Oscars for its music. The film tells the story of Belle, a bookworm who falls in love with a cursed prince beast. The movie was praised for its beautiful animation, timeless story, and unforgettable soundtrack.

One of the most iconic scenes in the movie is the ballroom dance sequence between Belle and the Beast, set to the song ‘Beauty and the Beast’. The sequence was groundbreaking at the time for its use of computer-generated imagery to create the sweeping camera movements. 

Beauty and the Beast also features a memorable cast of supporting characters, including Lumiere the candelabra, Mrs. Potts the teapot, and Cogsworth the clock.

Aladdin (1992)

Aladdin was a commercial success and was often lauded for its humor, memorable songs, and colorful animation. The film follows Aladdin, a man from the lower class who falls in love with Princess Jasmine and finds a magic lamp with a genie inside. The film’s genie character, voiced by Robin Williams, became an instant cultural icon.

One of the most memorable songs in the movie is ‘A Whole New World’, a duet between Aladdin and Jasmine as they fly on a magic carpet over the city. The song has become a classic love ballad and is often covered by singers of all genres. Aladdin also features a memorable villain in the form of Jafar, the power-hungry advisor to the Sultan.

The Lion King (1994)

The Lion King is one of the most iconic and beloved animated movies of all time. The movie follows the coming-of-age of a young lion prince named Simba, who must reclaim his rightful place as king after his uncle Scar kills his father. The film was noted for its stunning animation, memorable music, and emotional storytelling.

One of the most memorable songs in the movie is ‘Circle of Life’, which plays over the opening sequence featuring the birth of Simba. The song has become a cultural touchstone and is often used in parodies and inside sports arenas. The Lion King also features a memorable cast of supporting characters, including Timon and Pumbaa, a meerkat and warthog duo who befriend Simba.

Pocahontas (1995)

Many people don’t realize this but Pocahontas is based on the true story of a Native American princess who falls in love with an English explorer. 

The movie is often lauded for its breathtaking visuals and message of peace and understanding between different cultures. Although Pocahontas received mixed reviews from critics, it was a commercial success and remains a popular movie among Disney fans.

One of the most memorable songs in the movie is ‘Colors of the Wind’ which plays during a montage of Pocahontas showing John Smith the beauty of the natural world. The song has become a classic anthem for environmentalism and respect for indigenous cultures. Pocahontas also features a memorable villain in the form of Governor Ratcliffe, an Englishman who seeks to exploit the land for gold.

Hercules (1997)

Hercules is a loose retelling of the story of a Greek hero tale. The movie featured a star-studded cast, including James Woods as the villainous Hades and Danny DeVito as a satyr named Phil. The film was praised for its humor, soundtrack, and colorful animation, but was criticized for simplifying the complex mythological fables.

One of the most memorable songs in the movie is ‘Go the Distance’, a powerful ballad sung by Hercules as he dreams of finding his place in the world. 

The song has become a favorite of Disney fans and is often covered by singers in talent shows and auditions. Hercules also features a memorable cast of supporting characters, including Megara, a sassy and independent love interest for Hercules.

Mulan (1998)

Mulan was one of the first Disney movies to feature an Asian lead character and has since gained a reputation for its strong female-empowering message. 

The movie tells the story of Mulan, a young woman who disguises herself as a man to take her father’s place in the army and save China from invasion. The film received praise for its animation, music, and representation of Chinese culture.

One of the most memorable songs in the movie is ‘Reflection’, a solo sung by Mulan as she struggles with her identity and place in the world. 

Tarzan (1999)

Tarzan was the final film of the ‘90s Disney Renaissance. The movie follows the story of Tarzan, a man raised by apes in the jungle, as he discovers his identity and falls in love with a woman named Jane. The film was noted for its lush visuals, memorable songs, and stunning animation, especially in the way it brought the jungle to life.

One of the most memorable songs in the movie is ‘You’ll Be in My Heart’, a ballad sung by Tarzan’s mother, Kala and was a major hit released by Phil Collins. The song has become a favorite of parents and kids alike.

Non-Disney Animated Classics

While the Disney Renaissance was the height of mainstream animation in the 1990s, many non-Disney animated films were also produced during this era, some of which have become classics in their own right. Here they are below:

An American Tail: Fievel Goes West (1991)

‘An American Tail: Fievel Goes West’ is a sequel to the critically acclaimed first movie that follows the story of Fievel Mousekewitz as he moves with his family from New York to the Wild West. The film received mixed reviews but was noted for its impressive voice cast and fun Western-themed story.

FernGully: The Last Rainforest (1992)

‘FernGully: The Last Rainforest’ is a lesser-known film that has gained a cult following in recent years, thanks to TikTok and YouTube.

The movie tells the story of a group of magical creatures who live in the rainforest and their attempts to protect their home from destruction by humans. The film was noted for its excellent animation and its pro-environment message.

The Prince of Egypt (1998)

The Prince of Egypt is a retelling of the biblical story of Moses and his journey to free the Hebrews from slavery in Egypt. The movie received critical acclaim upon release and was praised for its incredible animation, stunning visuals, and powerful storytelling. The film also featured an impressive voice cast, including Val Kilmer as Moses and Ralph Fiennes as the villainous Pharaoh.

The 1990s was a significant era for animation, resulting in many iconic and groundbreaking films that have become synonymous with many of our childhoods.

The movies produced in this decade have influenced animation to this day, offering a glimpse into the future of what we can expect from animated movies.