It Was Never Just for Kids: The 25 Best Animated Films Made for Adults
The realm of animation has often been misconceived as a medium primarily targeted at younger audiences. However, over the years, filmmakers have leveraged the flexibility and expressiveness of animation to craft stories rich with complex themes, sophisticated humor, and mature content that resonates strongly with adult viewers. These films have expanded the boundaries of animation, proving that it can be as nuanced and profound as live-action storytelling. Here is a curated list of the 25 best animated films made for adults, showcasing the breadth and depth of the medium.
1. Persepolis (2007)
Based on Marjane Satrapi’s autobiographical graphic novel, this film provides a poignant look at a young girl growing up during the Islamic Revolution in Iran. Its stunning black-and-white animation and deeply personal storytelling resonate with themes of identity, freedom, and the complexities of growing up.
2. Anomalisa (2015)
Directed by Charlie Kaufman, this film utilizes stop-motion animation to delve into the existential malaise of a customer service expert. Its exploration of loneliness, love, and the search for connection makes for a uniquely human viewing experience.
3. Waltz with Bashir (2008)
Ari Folman’s innovative documentary uses animation to recount his experiences as a soldier in the 1982 Lebanon War. The film’s visual style serves as a potent medium for its harrowing exploration of memory and trauma.
4. Grave of the Fireflies (1988)
This heart-wrenching film is set in the final months of World War II and tells the story of two siblings struggling to survive in war-torn Japan. It’s a stark reminder of the horrors of war and the human cost of conflict.
5. Akira (1988)
A landmark in the cyberpunk genre, Akira is set in a post-apocalyptic Neo-Tokyo. The film’s themes of political unrest, social isolation, and power dynamics have made it a cult classic.
6. The Triplets of Belleville (2003)
This French film is a whimsical and surreal adventure that follows an elderly woman and the titular triplets as they embark on a wild rescue mission. Its unique animation and satirical tone appeal to a more mature sensibility.
7. Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)
Wes Anderson’s foray into animation brings his signature style to the tale of Mr. Fox’s struggle against human farmers. The film’s wry humor and intricate detail offer a delightful experience for adults.
8. Ghost in the Shell (1995)
This influential sci-fi film delves into themes of identity, consciousness, and the implications of artificial intelligence, set against a backdrop of stunningly rendered futuristic landscapes.
9. Loving Vincent (2017)
As the first fully painted animated feature, this film explores the life and mysterious death of Vincent van Gogh, told through his own paintings. The artistry and emotional depth make it a groundbreaking achievement.
10. Sausage Party (2016)
A raunchy comedy that satirizes religion, consumerism, and the very nature of existence through the lens of supermarket products, Sausage Party is definitely not for children but offers plenty of laughs and food for thought for adults.
The list clearly demonstrates that animation is not relegated to child’s play but is a rich and versatile art form capable of exploring the full gamut of human experience. From heartbreak and war to existential angst and societal criticism, these films utilize the limitless possibilities of animation to tell stories that are deeply human, challenging, and thought-provoking. They affirm that animated films possess the power to enchant, enlighten, and entertain audiences of all ages, proving that this medium was never just for kids.
