The 10 Best Animated Movies That Are Also Musicals

The combination of animated movies and musical storytelling has deep roots, stretching back to the Golden Era of animation when studios like Disney and Fleischer pioneered the blend of visual and musical artistry. Over the years, these animated musicals have evolved into cultural landmarks, often capturing the hearts of viewers across generations. From advancing plotlines to establishing iconic characters, music in animated movies has shaped some of the most unforgettable moments in cinema. Here, we celebrate 10 of the best animated movies that are also extraordinary musicals, each bringing a unique twist to the genre.

10. ‘An American Tail’ (1986)

Directed by Don Bluth

In this heartfelt tale, the Mousekewitz family, a group of mice escaping persecution in Russia, journeys to America, hoping for a better life. Young Fievel Mousekewitz (voiced by Phillip Glasser) is separated from his family during the voyage and finds himself lost in New York City. As he navigates the new world, Fievel’s determination to reunite with his family creates an emotional journey filled with hope and resilience.

“An American Tail” stands out among animated movies for its honest portrayal of immigrant struggles. Although its songs may not be as grandiose as some Disney classics, they convey deep emotions and powerful themes. Tracks like “There Are No Cats in America,” sung by immigrant mice, highlight their shared hardships, while “Somewhere Out There” has become an anthem of love and longing.

Key Highlights:

Release Date: November 21, 1986
Memorable Songs: “There Are No Cats in America,” “Somewhere Out There”

9. ‘The Nightmare Before Christmas’ (1993)

Directed by Henry Selick

Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, grows tired of his usual routine and yearns for something new. When he stumbles upon Christmas Town, he’s captivated by its joyful spirit and decides to bring Christmas to Halloween Town, with disastrous results. This stop-motion classic combines animated movie magic with Danny Elfman’s unforgettable musical score.

The hauntingly beautiful songs enhance the dark and whimsical atmosphere of Halloween Town. From “This is Halloween” to “What’s This?”, each song captures Jack’s journey of discovery, making “The Nightmare Before Christmas” a staple among holiday films and a top animated movie musical.

Key Highlights:

Release Date: October 9, 1993
Memorable Songs: “This is Halloween,” “What’s This?”

8. ‘Anastasia’ (1997)

Directed by Don Bluth and Gary Goldman

Set during the Russian Revolution, Anastasia follows the story of a young woman suffering from amnesia who may be the last surviving Romanov. As she teams up with conmen Dimitri and Vladimir, Anastasia begins to uncover her past while evading the undead sorcerer Rasputin.

“Anastasia” is often celebrated for its Disney-like quality, even though it was produced by 20th Century Fox. With songs crafted by Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty, it rivals Disney classics through numbers like “A Rumor in St. Petersburg,” introducing key characters, and “In the Dark of the Night,” a chilling villain anthem. This film is proof that animated movies can be as epic as any live-action musical.

Key Highlights:

Release Date: November 21, 1997
Memorable Songs: “A Rumor in St. Petersburg,” “In the Dark of the Night”

7. ‘Coco’ (2017)

Directed by Lee Unkrich and Adrian Molina

In “Coco,” young Miguel dreams of becoming a musician, even though his family has banned music due to a generational rift. Desperate to prove his talent, Miguel accidentally finds himself in the Land of the Dead, where he learns about his heritage and family history.

This Pixar gem beautifully represents Mexican culture and emphasizes the importance of family, memory, and reconciliation. The song “Remember Me” serves as a touching reminder of the power of music to connect generations, making “Coco” one of the most impactful animated movies in recent years.

Key Highlights:

Release Date: October 27, 2017
Memorable Songs: “Remember Me,” “La Llorona”

6. ‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame’ (1996)

Directed by Gary Trousdale and Kirk Wise

Set in medieval Paris, this adaptation of Victor Hugo’s novel follows Quasimodo, the bell-ringer of Notre Dame, who is kept isolated by his guardian, Judge Frollo. Longing to experience life outside, Quasimodo defies Frollo’s orders and befriends the compassionate Esmeralda.

Despite its tonal shifts, “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” boasts a powerful musical score. Songs like “The Bells of Notre Dame” provide an epic opening, while “Hellfire” dives into Frollo’s dark psyche. With its rich themes, this animated movie is as compelling as it is musically impressive.

Key Highlights:

Release Date: June 21, 1996
Memorable Songs: “The Bells of Notre Dame,” “Hellfire”

5. ‘South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut’ (1999)

Directed by Trey Parker

When Stan, Kyle, Cartman, and Kenny sneak into an R-rated movie, their newfound vocabulary sparks outrage among the adults, leading to a full-blown conflict between the U.S. and Canada. As satire at its finest, this animated movie doubles as a comedic musical with songs that push the envelope.

“South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut” brilliantly parodies Disney’s musical formula while tackling issues like censorship. Songs like “Blame Canada” deliver biting humor, making this film a unique entry in the world of animated movie musicals.

Key Highlights:

Release Date: June 30, 1999
Memorable Songs: “Blame Canada,” “What Would Brian Boitano Do?”

4. ‘The Lion King’ (1994)

Directed by Roger Allers and Rob Minkoff

A timeless tale of betrayal, loss, and redemption, “The Lion King” follows Simba, a young lion prince who must confront his destiny. Betrayed by his uncle Scar, Simba eventually learns to embrace his role as king of the Pride Lands.

With songs by Elton John and Tim Rice, The Lion King remains one of the most iconic animated movies ever. From the soaring “Circle of Life” to the villainous “Be Prepared,” the film’s music captures the grandeur of the African savanna and its complex themes.

Key Highlights:

Release Date: June 24, 1994
Memorable Songs: “Circle of Life,” “Be Prepared”

3. ‘Beauty and the Beast’ (1991)

Directed by Gary Trousdale and Kirk Wise

This classic fairy tale adaptation tells the story of Belle, a young woman who finds herself trapped in an enchanted castle with the Beast, a cursed prince. As Belle grows to see beyond the Beast’s appearance, she helps break the spell.

“Beauty and the Beast” set the standard for animated movie musicals, especially with its Academy Award-nominated songs. Numbers like “Be Our Guest” and the titular “Beauty and the Beast” are timeless, bringing warmth and magic to this beloved story.

Key Highlights:

Release Date: November 22, 1991
Memorable Songs: “Be Our Guest,” “Beauty and the Beast”

2. ‘Frozen’ (2013)

Directed by Chris Buck and Jennifer Lee

“Frozen” tells the story of two sisters, Elsa and Anna, whose bond is tested by Elsa’s magical powers. When Elsa accidentally plunges their kingdom into eternal winter, Anna sets off on an adventure to find her and restore harmony.

The song “Let It Go” became a cultural phenomenon, earning “Frozen” a place in the pantheon of great animated movies. With its message of self-acceptance, the film resonated with audiences worldwide, and its soundtrack remains immensely popular.

Key Highlights:

Release Date: November 27, 2013
Memorable Songs: “Let It Go,” “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?”

1. ‘Moana’ (2016)

Directed by Ron Clements and John Musker

“Moana” follows a young girl’s journey across the ocean to save her island from ecological disaster. Guided by the demigod Maui, she braves the seas and learns about her ancestors’ voyaging legacy.

With music by Lin-Manuel Miranda, “Moana” features some of the best songs in recent animated movie history. Tracks like “How Far I’ll Go” embody Moana’s determination, while “You’re Welcome” brings humor to Maui’s character. “Moana” not only delivers on music and visuals but also celebrates Polynesian culture and female empowerment.

Key Highlights:

Release Date: November 23, 2016
Memorable Songs: “How Far I’ll Go,” “You’re Welcome”

These top 10 animated movies showcase the power of music to deepen storytelling and bring characters to life. From timeless Disney classics to boundary-pushing adult animations, each film on this list has left a lasting impact on audiences, proving that animated musicals are more than just children’s entertainment.