Experience the Fun of Childhood: 15 Must-See Classic Pixar Movies

1. Soul 2020，IMDB Rating: 8.0, IMDB Votes: 386952, ID: 2948372
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Pixar’s ‘Soul’ delves into the existential with a vibrant, yet dark exploration of life and purpose. The scene where Joe and 22 become lost souls is haunting, reflecting the fear of never finding one’s true calling. This film masterfully balances its deep themes with stunning animation and a soulful soundtrack, making it a visually and emotionally captivating experience.
2. Luca 2021，IMDB Rating: 7.4, IMDB Votes: 198795, ID: 12801262
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In ‘Luca,’ the dark undertones are subtly woven into the narrative, particularly in the scenes where Luca and Alberto fear being discovered as sea monsters. The tension and fear of rejection add depth to this otherwise light-hearted tale of friendship and self-discovery. The film’s beautiful animation and heartfelt story make it a standout in Pixar’s repertoire.
3. Toy Story 4 2019，IMDB Rating: 7.7, IMDB Votes: 284535, ID: 1979376
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Toy Story 4 takes a surprisingly dark turn with the character of Gabby Gabby, a doll who seeks to replace her broken voice box with Woody’s. This unsettling quest adds a layer of tension and moral ambiguity to the film. Despite this, the movie remains a heartwarming tale of friendship and finding one’s place in the world, beautifully animated and emotionally resonant.
4. Finding Dory 2016，IMDB Rating: 7.2, IMDB Votes: 307704, ID: 2277860
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Finding Dory’s darker moments are highlighted in the scene where Dory is lost in the dark ocean, separated from her friends. This moment of isolation and fear is a stark contrast to the film’s usual light-hearted tone. The movie’s stunning visuals and heartfelt message about perseverance and family make it a memorable addition to Pixar’s lineup.
5. Cars 2006，IMDB Rating: 7.2, IMDB Votes: 477584, ID: 0317219
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Cars may seem like a light-hearted racing adventure, but it touches on darker themes of obsolescence and loss. The scene where Lightning McQueen finds himself in the forgotten town of Radiator Springs is a poignant reminder of the passage of time and the inevitability of change. The film’s vibrant animation and nostalgic charm make it a beloved classic.
6. Cars 3 2017，IMDB Rating: 6.7, IMDB Votes: 125595, ID: 3606752
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Cars 3 takes a surprisingly dark turn with Lightning McQueen’s devastating crash, a moment that is both visually stunning and emotionally jarring. The film explores themes of aging and obsolescence, making it a poignant tale of resilience and mentorship. Despite its formulaic plot, the animation is breathtaking, and the characters are endearing. This installment of the Cars franchise is a testament to Pixar’s ability to blend heart and spectacle, even in the face of darker themes.
7. Monsters University 2013，IMDB Rating: 7.2, IMDB Votes: 394745, ID: 1453405
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Monsters University delves into the darker side of ambition and failure, particularly in the scene where Mike realizes he may never be a scarer. This prequel to Monsters, Inc. is a visually rich and emotionally resonant film that explores the complexities of friendship and self-worth. The animation is top-notch, and the story, while familiar, is executed with charm and depth. It’s a delightful yet thought-provoking addition to Pixar’s repertoire.
8. Finding Nemo 2003，IMDB Rating: 8.2, IMDB Votes: 1123542, ID: 0266543
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Finding Nemo’s opening scene, where Marlin loses his wife and nearly all his children, is a gut-wrenching start to an otherwise heartwarming adventure. This dark moment sets the stage for Marlin’s overprotectiveness and the film’s exploration of loss, fear, and the courage to let go.
9. Monsters, Inc. 2001，IMDB Rating: 8.1, IMDB Votes: 990106, ID: 0198781
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Monsters, Inc. is a delightful and imaginative film, but the scene where Sulley believes Boo has been crushed in the trash compactor is genuinely heart-stopping. This dark moment highlights the deep bond between Sulley and Boo, adding emotional weight to the film’s whimsical premise.
10. Brave 2012，IMDB Rating: 7.1, IMDB Votes: 446989, ID: 1217209
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Brave is a visually captivating tale of courage and family, but the transformation of Queen Elinor into a bear adds a dark twist to the story. This moment underscores the film’s themes of identity and reconciliation, making it a standout in Pixar’s repertoire.
11. A Bug’s Life 1998，IMDB Rating: 7.2, IMDB Votes: 317608, ID: 0120623
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A Bug’s Life is a visually stunning film that explores the dark themes of oppression and rebellion. The scene where Hopper, the menacing grasshopper, threatens the ant colony is particularly intense and showcases the film’s ability to balance light-hearted moments with darker undertones. The animation is breathtaking, and the story is both engaging and thought-provoking. This film is a testament to Pixar’s ability to create movies that are both entertaining and meaningful.
12. Ratatouille 2007，IMDB Rating: 8.1, IMDB Votes: 839339, ID: 0382932
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Ratatouille is a delightful film that delves into the dark side of ambition and the pressure to succeed. The scene where Remy is nearly drowned in the sewers is particularly harrowing and highlights the film’s ability to tackle serious themes with grace and humor. The animation is top-notch, and the characters are both lovable and complex. This film is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates the artistry of animation.
13. Coco 2017，IMDB Rating: 8.4, IMDB Votes: 603977, ID: 2380307
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Coco is a visually stunning and emotionally powerful film that explores the themes of family, legacy, and mortality. The scene where Miguel confronts his family’s history in the Land of the Dead is particularly dark and poignant. The animation is breathtaking, and the music is both beautiful and haunting. This film is a masterpiece that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who watches it.
14. The Good Dinosaur 2015，IMDB Rating: 6.7, IMDB Votes: 129095, ID: 1979388
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The Good Dinosaur is a visually stunning film that explores the themes of loss and survival. The scene where Arlo’s father is swept away by a raging river is particularly intense and showcases the film’s ability to balance light-hearted moments with darker undertones. The animation is breathtaking, and the story is both engaging and thought-provoking. This film is a testament to Pixar’s ability to create movies that are both entertaining and meaningful.
15. Onward 2020，IMDB Rating: 7.4, IMDB Votes: 172690, ID: 7146812
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Onward is a heartwarming film that explores the themes of loss and family. The scene where Ian and Barley attempt to bring their father back to life is particularly emotional and highlights the film’s ability to tackle serious themes with grace and humor. The animation is top-notch, and the characters are both lovable and complex. This film is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates the artistry of animation.