Ranked from Worst to Best, all 28 Pixar Movies
Although Pixar has produced 28 films overall, the rating of each one could surprise you. From modest origins at Lucasfilm to being among the top Animation firms worldwide, Pixar's path has been as challenging and motivating as the exploits of their CG heroes. Following short films and special effects graduation, Pixar was headed toward excellence with the 1995 premiere of Toy Story, the first totally CG-animated feature film. From then, Pixar grew to be a major player in the Disney cycle, creating one hit series after another with box office performance and critical praise.
Pixar has never produced a bad film, it should be mentioned. Though some clearly sparkle more than others, even Pixar's poorest attempts are exquisitely produced and provide something for both children and adults to appreciate. Most of the films, moreover, are definitely stone-cold masterpieces with great difficulty separating. To guide viewers in choosing their own favorites, here is every Pixar film ranked worst to best: Inside Out 2.
29. Vehicle 2 (2011)
If Cars 2 is the absolute worst movie a studio has ever produced, it has to be doing something right. Perfectly serviceable as a vivid, vibrant cartoon that children will gladly lap up, the sequel to Pixar's talking vehicle series is But against the customary quality of Pixar films, a jump-started Lightning McQueen stalls and splutters in the face.
Often recognized as Pixar's most cynical moment is Cars 2, a sequel that generated plenty of money regardless of quality and didn't have to materialize. Lacking the enchantment other series oeze readily, Cars 2 is crying out for the wit and global appeal Pixar is known for, content to focus firmly on the frenzied racing while characters and plot bring up the rear. Often hailed as Pixar's most cynical moment, Cars 2 is a sequel that generated lots of money regardless of quality and didn't have to happen. Furthermore, the movie's attempt to combine an espionage thriller storyline with racing seems fragmented, therefore weakening the appeal and coherence that fans of Pixar demand from the studio's products.
27." Automobile 3 (2017)
At least it isn't Cars 2. With the third in the series barely surpassing its predecessor, the dishonor of the weakest Pixar film is a photo-finish between Cars sequels. Dealing with the complaints Cars 2 received, Cars 3 starts the narrative aspects as Owen Wilson's joyful red racer sees his glory days might be over. This idea drives Cars 3 on a more fascinating path fit for Pixar's ability for expressive narrative.
Still a Cars film, it has fun, aesthetically beautiful motor action that rarely strays from its lane. The idea that Pixar's second-worst movie is simply mediocre says volumes about the rest of its production even if one considers how every Pixar film ranked. Cars 3 struggles to have a lasting effect despite a more grounded and emotionally relevant story, eclipsed by the studio's most inventive and touching releases.
twenty-six The Good Dinosaur 2015
The Good Dinosaur is the first official movie office disaster Pixar has ever produced if the Cars series constitutes their first critical misfire. To be honest, The Good Dinosaur is hardly as awful as its financial situation suggests. Based on the fascinating idea of Earth if the dinosaurs never went extinct, The Good Dinosaur's decent but unspectacular performance is as much to blame for its commercial failure as inadequate promotion.
This ancient story delivers merely a taste of what the company is capable of - wonderful in the moment, but never leaving a stamp on the audience's hearts and minds where Pixar movie fans are accustomed to narrative layers and emotional depth. Though The Good Dinosaur offers some audacious concepts, possibilities of a sequel were rapidly buried. Though the movie has beautiful images and poignant moments, it is a nice but ultimately forgettable addition to the studio lineup since it lacks the coherent narrative and depth usually defining Pixar's masterpieces.
27. Lightyear 2022
Andy's ambition to obtain the Buzz Lightyear action figure and start the Toy Story chronology sprang from the fictitious film Lightyear. Had director Angus MacLane stayed true to this, it would have been a brilliant idea; instead, the film that became Lightyear just cannot have existed in 1995; it feels too polished.
Subtle (and less subtle) allusions to Toy Story, a convincing and heartfelt friendship suffering at the hands of distorted time, a wonderful Emperor Zurg twist, on-form Chris Evans, and amazing visuals abound. Its general message, "teamwork is good," scarcely fits Pixar's more heartstring-pulling themes, and it doesn't tilt far enough into the idea of a frenzied '90s sci-fi film like The Fifth Element to balance the fun/feelings factors. Though not absolutely relevant to Toy Story canon, this non-essential yet fun addition to the series enhances the franchise.
25. 2006: Cars
Although Pixar movie successors hardly live up to their respective originals, it is unusual indeed that a whole franchise fails to satisfy. Forward, Cars; the only Pixar series not to have a single universally loved release. After bringing to life toys, bugs, fish and monsters, cars were the next logical target to anthropomorphize, but it's here where Cars's recurring problems of shallow plot, limited appeal and style over substance start.
While these problems would define later iterations, the original Cars has enough quality in its outstanding ensemble and excitement in its amazing premise to sprint over the line. Though it lacks the cinematic weight of practically everything else with a Pixar stamp, cars might appeal more profoundly than their successors. Additionally, despite its charming setting and heartfelt moments, the film's pacing and predictability prevent it from reaching the heights of Pixar's more acclaimed works, rendering it a modestly enjoyable but ultimately unremarkable entry in the studio's impressive catalog.
twenty-three 2013: monsters university
Prequel set during Mike Wazowski and James P. Sullivan's undergraduate years, the much awaited follow-up to Monsters, Inc. Though this wasn't exactly the narrative fans yearned to witness, Monsters University makes the most of its circumstances and encourages lots of humorous misbehavior from Mike and Sulley's early rivalry. Beyond explaining how the pair came to know each other, however, Monsters University adds little to the first film, playing safe and relying heavily upon the audience's existing love for the characters.
On the other hand, Monsters University's college setting successfully expands Pixar's world of hairy beasts, and the original charm of Mike and Sulley remains mercifully fruitful. an excellent movie hampered by the unvarnished brilliance of its predecessor. Moreover, although the movie catches the vivid and creative energy of its universe, its predictable plot and lack of emotional depth compared to the original leave it feeling more like a nice diversion than a great Pixar classic.
22: Elemental (2023).
Supported with a usually rich narrative derived from filmmaker Peter Sohn's real-life experience and the larger immigrant story, Elemental may not be top-notch Pixar but it is still better than most animated films. As with a lot of Pixar Movies, Elemental also deals with the idea of legacy within families and younger characters finding their own way.
The racism allegory is a smartly conceived one, but it's somewhat lacking in the execution because Sohn's story never quite goes as far as audiences like it to. Nevertheless, the Animation is beautiful, the characters well-drawn, and the enjoyment factor for a broad audience is absolutely there. The usual deeper elements are there, and the same pillar Pixar principles, and even where the story sags a little, the central dynamic between Ember and Wade is great.
22. Finding Dory (2016)
Much like Monsters University, Finding Dory wasn't the sequel fans were calling for, and though Pixar deserves credit for at least trying to avoid predictability, that initial lack of interest hampers an otherwise strong Finding Dory. Focusing on Ellen DeGeneres' amnesiac blue tang, Finding Dory succeeds where many Pixar movie sequels don't, coming perilously close to matching the emotional impact and sense of wonder audiences felt experiencing Finding Nemo for the first time.
There's still an overriding sense that Finding Dory didn't need to happen, but it made more than $1 billion at the box office. It's a huge benefit that Finding Dory's story works in isolation, and the gut-punch revelations from Dory's notoriously unreliable memory work as well as anything from the first film. There's still an overriding sense that Finding Dory didn't need to happen, but it made more than $1 billion at the box office. Additionally, the film introduces a host of memorable new characters and stunning underwater visuals, which help offset redundancy and reinforce the enduring charm of its beloved protagonist, making it a worthwhile, if not entirely necessary, continuation of the Finding Nemo legacy.
20. Onward (2020)
When Pixar resolved to focus solely upon original stories in the wake of Toy Story 4, many applauded the artistic integrity. Onward was the first of these productions, and had the misfortune of being released in March 2020. COVID-19 had a profound effect on Onward's box office, but early reaction during the film's short theatrical run was already looking underwhelming.
Set within a world of magic and fantasy, Onward stars Chris Pratt and Tom Holland as two brothers looking to revive their deceased father for a single day. The chemistry between their characters underpins the entire movie, and Onward's lofty themes are dealt with in a typically uplifting yet sensitive fashion. Onward doesn't quite engage viewers at every stage of the journey, but it remains a worthy addition to Pixar's movie canon that might've been appreciated more without a pandemic. Moreover, the film's heartfelt exploration of grief, family, and self-discovery resonates deeply, showcasing Pixar's ability to blend fantasy with real-world emotions, even if the execution doesn't reach the heights of the studio's most beloved classics.
19. Luca (2021)
A more recent tapestry to emerge from Pixar's movie-making loom, Luca encompasses some of the finest visuals the studio has ever animated, rendering sun-soaked Italy and the sea monsters' underwater realm with equal beauty. Released in the summer of 2021, Luca successfully captures the spirit of young children exploring during warm-weather holidays, championing values of curiosity, friendship, and equality.
Not entirely dissimilar from Monsters University and The Good Dinosaur, Luca's biggest criticism is the lack of depth - a missing layer that might've elevated an attractive and engaging romp into a memorable classic that audiences can revisit time and time again, like a fond summer memory. While the film’s charming simplicity and nostalgic atmosphere make it a delightful watch, it falls short of delivering the profound emotional resonance and narrative complexity that characterize Pixar's most celebrated works, leaving Luca as a pleasant yet somewhat lightweight entry into the studio's impressive lineup.
18. A Bug's Life (1998)
One of Pixar's earliest efforts still holds up, despite not sharing the classic status of its contemporaries. Borrowing liberally from Seven Samurai, Pixar's second release confirmed the hottest new studio in town was no one-hit wonder and, even more so than Toy Story, established the core Pixar principles that still hold true today. Everything about this microscopic adventure appeals to both the inner child and the actual children sitting in the theater, with earnest characters fighting against a dangerous evil.
It's creepy-crawly fun and games that doesn't shy away from mature themes, and though releasing so soon after Antz probably wasn't ideal, A Bug's Life remains an underrated entry in the Pixar world. Furthermore, the film's imaginative world-building and clever humor continue to resonate, showcasing Pixar's early knack for creating stories that are both entertaining and meaningful. Despite being overshadowed by some of the studio's later masterpieces, A Bug's Life offers a delightful and enduring experience that deserves recognition in the Pixar canon.
17. The Incredibles 2 (2018)
The most eagerly awaited of Pixar movie sequel, Incredibles 2 carried ridiculously high expectations, but despite initial buzz, the follow-up wasn't as super as Brad Bird's 2004 original. Unlike some Pixar franchises, Incredibles 2 doesn't rely on name value or retread old ground, presenting plenty of fresh ideas and new twists to the Parr family's superhero lifestyle. Jack-Jack is a delight, and the original's deft balance of comic book action and family drama remains true.
Nevertheless, it's telling that calls for Incredibles 3 are muted. The superhero sequel fails to develop its antagonist as effectively as the first film's classic Syndrome, and there's an inevitable air of diminishing returns exacerbated by the long gap between Movies. While the film's dynamic action sequences and humor are commendable, it lacks the same emotional depth and narrative innovation that made the original a standout, resulting in a sequel that entertains but doesn't quite reach the heights of its predecessor.
16. Brave (2012)
It took Pixar 13 films to realize a female protagonist might be a good idea, but not only does Brave move into uncharted diverse territory, it's a rare example of the studio employing a historical setting. Merida rightly serves as the heart of Brave, and her impact upon the Disney brand remains visible almost a decade on. Though the Scottish princess is Brave's undoubted highlight, the film's fairy tale environment makes for a refreshing change, while Merida's family dynamic is presented in a not-at-all-straightforward light that many viewers can relate to (apart from the bear bit).
The film's stunning animation and strong themes of independence and familial bonds contribute to its distinct charm. Brave's pacing doesn't quite lead to the climax Merida deserved, but this is a compelling cautionary tale nonetheless. Additionally, the film's stunning animation and strong themes of independence and familial bonds contribute to its distinct charm, even if it doesn't quite achieve the same narrative cohesion and emotional depth found in Pixar's top-tier offerings.
15. Soul (2020)
The second Pixar movie project to release during the COVID era and the first that premiered exclusively on Disney+, Soul brings together the unusual bedfellows of jazz music and the afterlife. This maverick combination is grounded by a wondrous score from Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross - two names audiences wouldn't immediately associate with the jazz genre. Hailed by many as proof that Pixar hadn't lost its touch in 2020, Soul is ambitious, original and inspiring in equal measure, hitting all the poignant notes fans have come to expect.
Though the pacing falls away somewhat, Soul's actual stumbling block has been the criticism of its Black lead. Many have stated that Joe Gardner fails as a well-rounded depiction of a Black man and could've done much more to avoid racial stereotypes. While the film’s exploration of existential themes and the meaning of life is both profound and beautifully rendered, it sometimes struggles to balance its dual narratives of the physical and metaphysical, resulting in a slightly uneven but still deeply impactful and visually stunning experience.
14. Turning Red (2022)
The general consensus surrounding Turning Red is that Pixar just delivered its strongest effort in years. A departure from the studio's tried-and-tested formula, Turning Red stars Rosalie Chiang as Mei Lee. In addition to all the other tribulations 13-year-old girls endure, Mei transforms into a huge red panda whenever she becomes emotional. Predictably, Turning Red is packed with sumptuous visuals (particularly during the final 4*Town concert scene), and delivers one comedy-tinged gut-punch after another as Mei learns to embrace her inner panda and break away from her mother's protective shell.
Emotive and good-looking coming-of-age stories are Pixar's bread and butter at this point, but truly elevating Turning Red above the likes of Luca and Onward are the things we're not accustomed to from Pixar movies. Its culturally rich narrative, authentic depiction of adolescence, and bold exploration of generational dynamics and identity make it a standout entry in Pixar's repertoire, resonating deeply with both young audiences and adults alike.
13. Inside Out 2 (2024)
Following up on one of the best Pixar movies is never easy, but Inside Out 2 delivers a sequel that is every bit as emotional. The sequel expands the depths of Riley's mind by adding new emotions to the mix, and it is through the story it tells with Anxiety that the movie really shines. The inner struggle between Anxiety and Joy is powerfully emotional and a great step forward from how the first movie handled mental health. Inside Out 2 represents a maturation with how Riley and, more importantly, Pixar can address a wide array of feelings and experiences.
For as emotional as Inside Out 2's ending is, there is plenty of humor that comes beforehand as Joy and the other emotions work to help Riley. The film's story and themes can be quite repetitive from the first movie, sure, but the end results prove how well the formula works. Amy Poehler and the other returning cast members deliver, while Maya Hawke and Ayo Edibiri help make Anxiety and Envy really stand out. The movie is ultimately a rather fast-paced, emotionally complex, and hilariously heartfelt exploration of going through puberty and what makes you, well, you.
12. Toy Story 4 (2019)
The note-perfect ending of Toy Story 3 meant few were expecting (or wanting) a fourth visit to this iconic franchise. Disney and Pixar had other ideas, and Toy Story 4 landed in 2019. On one hand, Toy Story 4 still includes all of the essential Toy Story ingredients. Tom Hanks and Tim Allen are great, the gags land consistently, and the carnival setting neatly broadens the toy universe through creepy dolls, lost toys, and plastic utensils. The return of Annie Potts as a toughened-up Bo Peep is inspired and marks a very welcome return for the staff-wielding shepherd.
Even so, Toy Story 4 feels more akin to a side-story than a true fourth chapter in the series - closer in style to animated shorts Toy Story of Terror and Toy Story That Time Forgot. Reconciling the end of Toy Story 3 with the fourth movie's plot is trickier than it should be, and the divisive Forky lacks the charm previous newbies such as Jessie and Ken showed from the start.
11. Coco (2017)
Soul wasn't the first Pixar movie to blend death and music - Coco got there a whole three years earlier. Swapping the jazz aesthetic for Mexican culture, Coco rivals any of Pixar's classics in terms of stunning CG, memorable songs, and heart-wrenching storytelling with timeless appeal. Starring a young aspiring musician chasing dreams his family refuse to support, Coco follows Miguel's nail-biting escape from the Land of the Dead and his quest for ancestral answers.
Coco isn't perfect by any means, but the sincerity of its world and characters papers over the cracks, encouraging the audience to be forgiving in light of the film's many charms. The film's rich cultural representation and its poignant exploration of themes such as family, tradition, and memory make it an emotionally resonant and visually enchanting experience that stands as one of Pixar's most beloved and impactful films.
10. Ratatouille (2007)
Of all the mad ideas to emerge from Pixar's California HQ, a chef being controlled by a rat must've been the hardest to sell. A refreshingly small-scale concept, Remy is a talented chef with a palette way more sophisticated than your average sewer-dweller. Unfortunately, kitchen jobs are hard to come by in Paris, and even more so for rodents. By hiding underneath the hat of Linguini, however, Remy fulfills his culinary ambitions in an enchanting animation that carefully infuses slapstick restaurant hi-jinks with an all-too-relatable story of acceptance, passion, and individuality.
The best testament to Ratatouille's success is how for every food expert who loves the film, there's ten more who were inspired to cook for the first time. Despite being a quieter affair than Pixar movie regulars might be accustomed to, Ratatouille never drags or dips, and never panders to cartoon convention. The best testament to Ratatouille's success is how for every food expert who loves the film, there's ten more who were inspired to cook for the first time.
9. Monsters, Inc. (2001)
If Pixar is the King of Concepts, Monsters, Inc. was the studio's best premise since Toy Story. Playing on every child's fears, Mike and Sulley exist within a hilariously true-to-life setting where scaring kids is just a mundane 9-to-5. Perfectly-pitched characters are given room to roam, and the deeply upsetting farewell between Sulley and Boo easily ranks as one of Pixar's most heartbreaking moments.
Monsters, Inc. is a story of two diverse species shedding their respective preconceptions, but tackling meaty subject matter doesn't mean endless fun can't be had along the way. That is, after all, when Pixar is at its best. The animation might look basic by modern standards, but Monsters, Inc. still packs a visual punch with its eclectic array of monster designs and the dizzying door conveyor climax. Moreover, the film's blend of humor, heart, and inventive world-building has cemented its status as a beloved classic, demonstrating Pixar's unique ability to craft stories that resonate with both children and adults.
8. Finding Nemo (2003)
Pixar movies frequently tackle important ideas, but few can claim to be as instantly relatable as Finding Nemo, a story of a father's unconditional love and a son's desperate desire for freedom. The titular clownfish’s journey through the great ocean is as action-packed as any summer blockbuster, but it's the tenderness of their relationship that keeps audiences hooked. Marlin's desperation to find Nemo is a relatable experience for any parent, while Nemo's fish-out-of-water attitude inspires the same spirit of adventure every kid feels when they're discovering something new.
Finding Nemo is a joyous adventure that perfectly blends comedy and drama, and its popularity hasn't waned since it first premiered in 2003. This film has become one of Pixar’s most recognized masterpieces and has even spawned a successful spin-off in Finding Dory. Moreover, the film's stunning underwater visuals and endearing characters have become instantly recognizable, making Finding Nemo a timeless classic that continues to inspire and entertain audiences of all ages.
7. WALL-E (2008)
The future of the Earth is in the hands of a lone robot in Pixar's WALL-E. Although the story starts off with a quiet sense of loneliness, the arrival of Eve the probe robot quickly turns WALL-E's world upside down. In a story about consumerism, environmental waste, and the power of love, WALL-E is also a beautiful love story. The movie’s stunning visuals and creative use of sound design make this an unforgettable experience, with a message that continues to resonate for years after it premieres.
WALL-E is not afraid to be silent, and although its narrative is quite a departure from what Pixar movie fans are used to, the film masterfully uses its lack of dialogue to tell a truly captivating story. It’s a testament to Pixar's talent for crafting visually arresting stories, and its exploration of themes such as environmental consciousness and the power of human connection has cemented its place as a masterpiece in the studio's repertoire.
6. Up (2009)
The sheer audacity of Up’s opening sequence – a montage of Carl and Ellie’s life together – puts the film in a category of its own. This breathtaking display of love and loss sets the stage for Carl’s journey as he finally follows through on his promise to Ellie, taking their house to Paradise Falls. The film's unforgettable opening is a testament to Pixar’s incredible ability to tell stories using nothing but visuals and music.
Up’s story is as emotionally compelling as the animation is breathtaking. As Carl faces his fear of change, the film deftly tackles themes of grief, love, and the importance of holding onto one’s dreams. Up’s emotional core, coupled with its visually stunning adventure, ensures the film will be appreciated for years to come.
5. Inside Out (2015)
Pixar had already shown that they can take on big subjects, but Inside Out is among their most ambitious yet. The film takes viewers into the mind of Riley, a preteen girl struggling to adjust to a new life in San Francisco. The film uses the metaphor of emotions to explore the complexities of human experience, as personified emotions battle to control her daily life. Inside Out is a story for kids, but it's also a movie that adults can truly connect with, as it sheds light on the way our emotions shape our decisions.
The animation is stunning, with the vibrant colors of Riley’s mind standing in stark contrast to the grim world of the "Abstract Thought" realm. Moreover, Inside Out’s powerful exploration of emotions and the human mind makes it one of Pixar’s most innovative and emotionally resonant films.
4. Toy Story 2 (1999)
Toy Story 2 takes everything that worked so well in the first film and improves upon it. The film features the return of the classic Toy Story cast, with the plot revolving around Woody being taken from Andy and brought to a toy museum in Tokyo. The film’s action-packed adventure is driven by Woody's journey to return to Andy, and the movie’s heartfelt exploration of loyalty, friendship, and the meaning of belonging is sure to tug at the heartstrings.
Toy Story 2 is a reminder of how Pixar can elevate simple stories to new heights of greatness. While the original film was groundbreaking for its use of CGI, Toy Story 2 is a marvel of animation technology that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible. The movie’s emotional depth and the powerful message of friendship and loyalty cemented its place in cinematic history.
3. Toy Story 3 (2010)
Toy Story 3 may have been the end of the line for Andy's toys (well, until Toy Story 4), but this still remains one of Pixar's most emotionally satisfying movies. As Andy prepares for college and the future, he must face the fact that his childhood is coming to an end. Andy's toys, meanwhile, embark on a new adventure as they are donated to a daycare, but things take a darker turn when they are mistaken for trash and shipped to a garbage incinerator. It’s a film that makes it clear that even if you grow up, some things never change, and the toys' bond of friendship remains as strong as ever.
While a third film was never expected, Toy Story 3 is an incredible feat of storytelling, offering a satisfying conclusion to the beloved franchise. While audiences might have expected the film to be a bit more lighthearted, the film’s heart-wrenching exploration of childhood, loss, and the bittersweet nature of growing up continues to resonate with audiences years later.
2. The Incredibles (2004)
While many Pixar movies are known for being lighthearted family affairs, The Incredibles is a superhero adventure that doesn't shy away from darker themes. The Parr family is a group of superheroes trying to lead a normal life, but their identities are revealed, resulting in a dangerous chase as they try to stay one step ahead of the authorities. Though they are living a “normal” life, the Parr family still has to contend with the usual family struggles that arise with a teen daughter, a super-powered baby, and a husband who refuses to accept that he's not a young superhero anymore.
The Incredibles is a film that blends superhero action and family drama perfectly, and its popularity never seems to fade. In addition to being one of Pixar's most visually stunning films, the Incredibles also tackles mature themes such as family, identity, and the importance of embracing your uniqueness. It remains a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.
1. Toy Story (1995)
Toy Story is a timeless classic and a groundbreaking achievement in film history. It’s a movie that launched a franchise and continues to amaze with its fresh take on the way we think about our toys. The movie tells the story of Woody, a cowboy doll, and Buzz Lightyear, a space ranger, whose relationship is tested when a new toy enters the picture. Toy Story’s charm lies in its heartfelt exploration of the bond between Woody and Buzz, as they navigate the complexities of friendship, loyalty, and the importance of embracing change. The film’s visual effects were groundbreaking for their time, and its timeless story continues to entertain and inspire audiences worldwide.
Toy Story changed the game of animation and remains the gold standard of Pixar movies to this day. Though countless sequels and spinoffs have been spawned since the original film premiered in 1995, Toy Story remains the heart of Pixar and its most important success story. The film’s enduring legacy is a testament to the power of storytelling and its ability to touch the hearts of people from all walks of life.
