Disney has undeniably established itself as synonymous with animatedmusicals, crafting a legacy of timeless classics that have become cultural landmarks. From Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and Sleeping Beauty to The Lion King and Frozen, Disney’s animated musicals have not only achieved remarkable commercial success, but have also embedded themselves in the hearts of audiences worldwide. The studio’s ability to seamlessly blend captivating storytelling with memorable musical numbers has set a standard for the genre.
However, looking beyond the works of Disney, there is a plethora of animated musicals outside the House of Mouse that stand as thoroughly entertaining works in their own right. Movies like An American Tail, Anastasia, and The Corpse Bride have captivated audiences with their unique storytelling, distinctive animation styles, and outstanding musical compositions. These non-Disney animated gems showcase the diversity and creativity within the animated musical genre, proving that cinematic magic extends beyond the iconic castle of Disney.
10 Trolls (2013)
Trolls
- Release Date
- October 13, 2016
- Director
- Mike Mitchell , Walt Dohrn
The jukebox musical Trolls, takes audiences on a fast-paced and colorful journey into the magical world of the Trolls. Centered around the characters Poppy and Branch, it’s filled with lively musical sequences set against the backdrop of the Trolls’ fantastical, vibrant universe. Based on the beloved toy line of the ’80s and ’90s, the movie delivers a dose of nostalgia for older fans while introducing a new generation to the whimsical charm of the Trolls by infusing plenty of current pop hits into its story. The movie features an impressive and diverse cast of stars, including the voices of Anna Kendrick, Justin Timberlake, Zooey Deschanel, and Christopher Mintz-Plasse.
Why It’s Great
Trolls dazzles with its infectious energy, vibrant animation, and a stellar voice cast. It grossed over $346 million worldwide, and critics praised its irresistible charm and colorful visuals, earning it a solid 75% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The film’s success lies in its ability to captivate audiences both young and old with a mix of nostalgia and a feel-good narrative, catchy songs, and a celebration of individuality. Stream on Netflix
9 Rio (2011)
Featuring the voices of Oscar-nominee Jesse Eisenberg and Oscar-winner Anne Hathaway, Rio follows Blu, a domesticated macaw, as he embarks on a journey to Rio de Janeiro to save his species. The vibrant animation, catchy music, and engaging storyline made it a surprise hit at the time of its release and spawned a sequel in 2014.
Why It’s Great
Rio impresses with stunning visuals, a samba-infused soundtrack, and a heartwarming story, resulting in the animated adventure film soaring to over $484 million at the worldwide box office. Audiences fell in love with its lively portrayal of Brazil’s Carnival, engaging characters, and environmental themes. Critics were also impressed and praised its exuberant, colorful animation, and it currently stands at a solid 72% on Rotten Tomatoes. Stream on Disney+
8 Sing (2016)
The animated jukebox musical comedy, Sing, centers around a theater-owning koala, who organizes a singing competition to save his failing business. Filled with an ensemble cast of animal characters with diverse talents, the film celebrates the power of music and pursuing one’s dreams. It also features one of the greatest voice casts ever assembled, including Matthew McConaughey, Reese Witherspoon, Seth MacFarlane, Scarlett Johansson, John C. Reilly, Tori Kelly, Taron Egerton, Nick Kroll, Beck Bennett, Jay Pharoah, Leslie Jones, Laraine Newman, Peter Serafinowicz, Nick Offerman, Rhea Perlman, and Jennifer Saunders.
Why It’s Great
Sing hit the right notes, both musically and at the box office. Grossing over $634 million globally and spawning a 2021 sequel (with another reportedly in development, per Screen Rant), the film’s appeal is amplified by its impressive ensemble cast. It showcases a marvelously diverse musical selection, including renditions of iconic tracks like “My Way” as well as original songs, each tailored to highlight the unique personalities and talents of the animated characters.
Rotten Tomatoes awarded it a 73% approval rating, with critics praising not just its terrific cast, but its upbeat message and great choice of songs as well. With a compelling story about chasing dreams and a universally appealing soundtrack, Sing strikes a harmonious balance between humor and heart. Rent on AppleTV
7 Cats Don’t Dance (1997)
This delightful, underrated animated film blends humor and heart in a vibrant musical setting. Cats Don’t Dance follows the story of Danny, an ambitious cat with dreams of making it big in Hollywood. Set in the 1930s, the film pays homage to the Golden Age of cinema and features catchy musical numbers. Danny, voiced by Scott Bakula, encounters a diverse cast of animal characters who challenge the stereotypes of their species in the entertainment industry.
Why It’s Great
Cats Don’t Dance is a cinematic treasure that might have slipped under the radar upon its initial release, but shines brightly for those who discover its magic. Visually stunning, with vibrant traditional 2D-animation and expressive characters, its infectious musical numbers by Randy Newman, add a real layer of charm and energy. Featuring a cast of weird and whacky characters set in the 1930s, the clever incorporation of Hollywood’s Golden Age pays homage to the industry’s rich history, creating a nostalgic yet timeless ambiance. Stream on Roku
6 All Dogs Go to Heaven (1989)
All Dogs Go to Heaven tells the tale of Charlie B. Barkin, a gambling, self-centered dog, who returns from the afterlife to seek redemption. The film features the voice talent of Burt Reynolds and offers a mix of adventure, comedy, and heartfelt moments as Charlie learns valuable lessons about friendship and sacrifice.
Why It’s Great
All Dogs Go to Heaven fearlessly delves into darker themes while maintaining a balance of humor and heart. Its willingness to tackle complex themes such as mortality, redemption, and the concept of an afterlife sets it apart in an era often characterized by more lighthearted animated fare. The beautiful animation coupled with an array of well-developed and relatable characters makes All Dogs Go to Heaven a highly underrated gem that rightfully deserves its spot on this list. Stream on Roku
5 Corpse Bride (2012)
Corpse Bride is a stop-motion animated fantasy directed by Tim Burton. This darkly whimsical tale stars Johnny Depp as Victor, who accidentally proposes to a deceased bride, voiced by Helena Bonham Carter. Viewers are taken into the depths of the afterlife through the lens of Burton’s distinctive visual style. The soundtrack is provided by the ever reliable and long-term Burton collaborator Danny Elfman.
Why It’s Great
Elfman’s trademark dark yet catchy compositions, combined with Burton’s signature Gothic charm and a compelling love story, make Corpse Bride a visually stunning and emotional animated masterpiece. Often overshadowed by The Nightmare Before Christmas, the movie still garnered over $117 million globally and has a very solid 84% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with particular praise directed towards the animation quality, voice acting, and well-developed characters. Rent on AppleTV
4 The Road to El Dorado (2000)
The Road to El Dorado follows the adventures of two charming con artists, Tulio and Miguel, who accidentally discover a map leading to the legendary city of gold, El Dorado. As they journey through the lush landscapes of ancient South America, they navigate friendship, betrayal, and unexpected alliances in their pursuit of fortune and glory. This early DreamWorks animation movie brings a comedic twist to the legend of El Dorado, capturing the essence of Mesoamerican culture.
Why It’s Great
Despite being far from DreamWorks’ biggest success story, The Road to El Dorado offered viewers an early glimpse into the studio’s creative potential. Beautifully animated and stylishly directed, blending humor, adventure, and an enchanting musical score by Elton John, the movie was an early example of the potential of the recently founded DreamWorks animation studio. The chemistry between the characters Tulio and Miguel, voiced by Kevin Kline and Kenneth Branagh, is on-point. While it may not have achieved blockbuster status at the box office, The Road to El Dorado remains an underrated hidden gem in DreamWorks’ portfolio. Rent on AppleTV
3 Anastasia (1997)
Anastasia
- Release Date
- November 21, 1997
- Runtime
- 1hr 34min
Often mistaken for a Disney movie due to the similarities in style (although ironically now owned by Disney since its acquisition of 20th Century Fox), Anastasia reimagines the story of the Russian Grand Duchess Anastasia Romanov. Meg Ryan voices Anastasia, who suffers from amnesia and teams up with Dimitri, voiced by John Cusack, to discover her true identity.
Why It’s Great
Anastasia enchants audiences with its magical take on history and memorable musical numbers. In the steps of the classic Disney movies that inspired it, Anastasia is a beautifully crafted animated film, praised for its sophisticated storytelling and stunning visuals. It features a sweeping and dramatic musical score, blending orchestral arrangements with memorable songs akin to those of its Disney competitors. The movie was universally praised by critics and currently holds a very impressive 84% on Rotten Tomatoes. Stream on Disney+
2 South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut (1999)
Warner Bros.
A bold and unapologetic extension of the South Park universe, South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut brings the outrageous, irreverent humor of the popular animated TV series to the big screen. The movie is a satirical musical that amps up the shock factor and tackles an array of social and political issues while maintaining the series’ signature crude humor. Its soundtrack is no less shocking, featuring an array of hilarious musical numbers, some with titles that are too explicit to repeat here.
Why It’s Great
South Park: Bigger Longer & Uncut takes the irreverent humor found in the best South Park episodes to new heights, earning both critical acclaim and box office success. The movie raked in over $83 million globally, with critics applauding its bold and provocative satire, earning it an impressive 81% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The movie’s ability to push boundaries and deliver sharp social commentary, combined with the signature humor of South Park, has solidified its status as a cult classic. Stream on Paramount+
1 An American Tail (1986)
The second feature film from Don Bluth studios, An American Tail tells the story of Fievel Mousekewitz, a young mouse separated from his family while immigrating to America. The film showcases Fievel’s journey, voiced by Phillip Glasser, through hardships and adventures in the quest for reunification in a heartfelt narrative filled with poignant themes of hope and family.
Why It’s Great
It masterfully captures the immigrant experience through the lens of Fievel Mousekewitz, a young mouse who embarks on a journey from Russia to America in search of a better life. The film beautifully intertwines historical context with a heartfelt narrative, depicting the challenges, hopes, and dreams of immigrants. Fievel’s separation from his family and his pursuit of the American Dream resonate on a universal level, making the film a powerful exploration of the immigrant narrative.
Beyond its endearing characters, anthemic lead song “There Are No Cats In America,” and captivating animation, An American Tail remains relevant by imparting valuable lessons about resilience, family, and the pursuit of a brighter future — and was the reason why Bluth became a genuine threat to Disney’s reign as the king of animation during the 1980s. Stream on Starz
