10 Most Rewatchable Animated Masterpieces of the Last 25 Years, Ranked

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Mike and Sulley holding Boo in her monster costume and run down a hallway in Monsters Inc.

Published Jan 27, 2026, 7:34 PM EST

Lucas Kloberdanz-Dyck is a writer for Collider. He grew up creating lists, stories, and worlds, which led to his love of anime and video games. He attended Sheridan College where he earned an Honours Bachelor of Game Design. Lucas and his group won 1st place for technical innovation at LevelUp Toronto 2023, and he was also an intern for the Oakville Film Festival of Arts.

The past 25 years have been excellent for all media, but animation in particular has blown up in popularity with movies such as KPop Demon Hunters and Megamind. Animated movies have evolved past just a genre for kids; it is now a properly recognized medium that all ages can enjoy, even if the Academy Awards still don't nominate mature animated films.

When fans look back at their favorite movies, the ones that stick out are those that they can watch over and over again, which is why this list will rank the ten most rewatchable animated movies of the past 25 years. These ten movies dominated the last quarter of a century, ranked here according to their rewatch value based on originality, entertainment, story, writing, animation, characters, comedy, action, and overall quality.

10 'Klaus' (2019)

Christmas movies have always been rewatchable, with fans putting on their favorites every year around the holidays. One of the best modern Christmas movies is Klaus, a Netflix gem that keeps getting better. After being the worst student in the academy, self-centered postman Jasper (Jason Schwarztman) is sent to the North Pole, where he discovers a humble toymaker named Klaus (J.K. Simmons).

Klaus is one of the newer entries on this list, but it didn't take long for it to become one of the best modern Christmas movies because of its emotional story, well-written characters, and dazzling art. The animation is absolutely striking, with gorgeous lighting, magnificent 2D techniques, and an overall experience that is beautiful. Klaus is perfect to watch every Christmas, making it a fan-favorite that will only become stronger the more time passes.

9 'Moana' (2016)

Disney is known as the king of animation, and some of their most recent projects are just as good as the classics. Moana is about the titular character and the journey she goes on. After encountering Maui (Dwayne Johnson), a demigod, they travel the sea in order to fulfill the ancient prophecy.

The second film wasn't the best, and fans aren't looking forward to the live-action adaptation, but the original movie is still a modern masterpiece. Moana is one of the most rewatched movies ever, with children and adults both loving the gorgeous animation, dreamlike visuals, catchy songs, and comforting sunny setting. The movie has excellent humor and a soundtrack built for longevity, creating a film that fans must watch at least a couple of times.

8 'Shrek' (2001)

2001 was exactly 25 years ago, meaning Shrek barely made the cut; yet, it remains a timeless film. When Lord Farquaad (John Lithgow) kicks out the mystical creatures from their homes, they all move into Shrek's (Mike Myers) swamp. Wanting them out, Shrek sets out on a quest to rescue Princess Fiona (Cameron Diaz) and deliver her to Farquaad, hoping he will give the magical creatures their homes back.

Shrek is a product of its time, with countless 2000s references that might feel out of date. However, that approach just makes it even more rewatchable for millennial audiences who grew up during that time. It is one of the funniest animated films for the entire family, and its subversion of tropes and the genre make it even more unique, original, and rewatchable. A true breath of fresh air, Shrek has cemented itself as the most defining animated movie of the past 25 years.

7 'The Simpsons Movie' (2007)

The Simpsons enjoying the drive through Alaska in 'The Simpsons Movie.'

The Simpsons is the most iconic animated television series of all time, so it is only natural that it would eventually get a film. The Simpsons Movie follows the titular family leaving their home after Homer (Dan Castellaneta) accidentally causes a severe incident. On the run, the Simpsons head to Alaska, but when Springfield is in danger, they are the only hope the town has.

They recently announced a new Simpsons movie for 2027, but it will be a tough task competing with the original. This movie features an iconic storyline that includes some of the funniest jokes in the series, with unforgettable moments. The animation is crisp, the comedy is top-notch, and the humor successfully evokes the series' golden days. The Simpsons Movie is overall a rewatchable movie that fans have recently rediscovered.

6 'A Silent Voice' (2016)

Shoya and Shoko talk to each other at a distance with pink flowering trees in the background in A Silent Voice

Animation as a whole is popular, but anime in particular has rapidly reached a global audience because it produces movies such as A Silent Voice. After being bullied because of her impairment, a deaf student transfers schools. Years later, she and her bully reunite in the same high school class. Determined to make things right, this reformed young man tries everything to make amends for what he did wrong.

It may be a bit heavier and more mature than other animated movies on this list, but A Silent Voice is still excellent for all ages to enjoy. The sound design and immersion are nothing short of spectacular, creating an audible triumph that can be enjoyed through the eyes and ears. A Silent Voice is a masterpiece that deals with themes such as forgiveness and guilt, making it a touching story that viewers will want to watch a couple of times.

5 'Monsters, Inc.' (2001)

Mike (Billy Crystal) and Sully (John Goodman) scared of Boo's shadow in 'Monsters Inc.'

Pixar is arguably the greatest animation studio, and therefore has a couple of entries on this list, including Monsters, Inc. Sully (John Goodman) is Scare Incorporated's top scarer, and his best friend, Mike (Billy Crystal), is his loyal assistant and confidant. However, when a little girl wanders where she isn't supposed to, the two of them must make sure she doesn't get in any trouble.

There are plenty of incredible Pixar movies, some even better than Monsters, Inc., but not many are more rewatchable. Besides being a visually stunning movie, it is also a comedic masterclass, with some of the funniest gags Pixar has ever done. The buddy-cop dynamic makes Monsters, Inc. more rewatchable, plus the fast-paced, good-natured humor and emotional payoff blend for a perfect Pixar movie.

4 'Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse' (2018)

Miles Morales floating in Spider-Man Into the Spider-Verse while the world is upside down.

Animation and the superhero genre fit perfectly together, which is why Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse became a worldwide sensation. When Spider-Man (Chris Pine) dies, Miles Morales (Shameik Moore) takes up the mantle. However, after Spider-People from other worlds end up in his, Miles needs to learn how to be a responsible superhero while battling a dangerous enemy.

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse has many well-written characters who have become staples and iconic figures of the modern age. The animation is a visual spectacle and some of the best fans have, and will ever see. With vibrant colors, comic-book influence, and dazzling animation, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is easily one of the best and most rewatchable animated movies of the current century.

3 'Spirited Away' (2001)

Chihiro holding into Haku as he flies above the river in Spirited Away.

As mentioned, anime is more popular than ever, and the most iconic studio is Studio Ghibli, which produced its magnum opus in 2001 with Spirited Away. Chihiro and her parents move to a new home, but when her parents fall under a curse, she must travel to a supernatural resort for spirits and find a way to reverse the spell before it's too late.

Spirited Away has a fun and wholesome story that is family-friendly, timeless, and relatable for all ages. However, it is such a rewatchable movie because of its hand-drawn animation, amazing detail, whimsical art style, prevalent melancholy, and magical sense of adventure that it evoked in fans of all ages. Spirited Away might be the best anime film of all time, so, naturally, it is also endlessly rewatchable.

2 'Ratatouille' (2007)

Pixar's second movie on this list comes in the form of a tiny little critter that snuck its way into everyone's hearts, Ratatouille. Remy (Patton Oswalt) is a rat, but he dreams of becoming a chef because of his advanced taste palate. When he forms an unlikely bond with a kitchen garbage boy, the duo works together to show Remy's culinary skills.

Ratatouille creates a sort of food physics that helps accentuate the dishes and sensory pleasure fans feel when watching the movie. It has a distinct vibe and aesthetic that pairs nicely with its wholesome story and engaging characters. Ratatouille is a masterpiece with high-stakes physical comedy that fans can enjoy on almost every sensory level, meaning it is a fun rewatch every now and then. Plus, the Parisian views are top-notch.

1 'Kung Fu Panda' (2008)

Po playing with his Furious Five action figures in 'Kung Fu Panda'.

This list encapsulates the entire quarter-century, but the 2000s in particular hold some of the most notable movies, and Kung Fu Panda is the most rewatchable. Po (Jack Black) is a lazy panda, and when he goes to watch the ceremony, he is chosen as the Dragon Warrior. The other warriors look down upon him, but Po must train to earn his status and defeat the looming threat.

Kung Fu Panda has everything a rewatchable film could have, from action to comedy, endearing characters, a fun plot, memorable moments, and a timeless legacy. The choreography is fantastic, and the kinetic action creates an exhilarating watch. Blending all these elements with its cast of entertaining characters and sidesplitting comedy led by Jack Black, Kung Fu Panda is a masterpiece that no one has trouble watching over and over again.

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