Pixar has given us some of the most beloved animated films of all time, from heartwarming stories to laugh-out-loud adventures. With their attention to detail and deep emotional core, it’s no wonder that their movies have become a part of our cultural fabric. But like any studio, not every movie hits the mark, and some have left audiences scratching their heads, wondering what went wrong.
In this list, we’re looking at the best and worst of Pixar’s filmography—those that soared to new heights and those that missed the mark. From unforgettable classics that bring us to tears, to films that didn’t quite live up to the Pixar magic, we’ll break down what worked, what didn’t, and where the studio could improve. So, whether you’re a lifelong fan or just curious about where Pixar’s journey has taken them, this breakdown has something for everyone.
Toy Story
“Toy Story,” released in 1995, revolutionized animation as the first entirely computer-animated feature film. It introduced audiences to Woody, an old-fashioned cowboy doll, and Buzz Lightyear, a futuristic space ranger. Their rivalry, filled with humor and emotion, unfolds in Andy’s vibrant bedroom. Together, they embark on a daring adventure that explores friendship and loyalty. Pixar’s pioneering technology and storytelling set a new standard for animated films, offering a charming tale that connects with both children and adults. The film’s success paved the way for sequels, each expanding the delightful universe of these beloved toys.
Finding Nemo
“Finding Nemo” (2003) takes viewers on an underwater journey, following Marlin, an anxious clownfish, and Dory, his forgetful blue tang companion. After Nemo, his son, is captured, Marlin’s quest across the ocean becomes a lesson in courage and trust. The visually stunning animation captures the ocean’s vast beauty, while the story blends humor, emotion, and adventure. Dory’s comedic charm adds lightheartedness, making the journey unforgettable. Pixar’s realistic depiction of marine life, alongside a heartfelt narrative, creates a timeless classic. “Finding Nemo” reminds us of the importance of family and the lengths one will go to protect it.
Inside Out
“Inside Out” (2015) offers a unique perspective on emotions, centering on 11-year-old Riley and her mind’s personified emotions: Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust. As Riley navigates a life-changing move, her emotions struggle to guide her. The film’s innovative approach to depicting internal struggles resonates with audiences, highlighting emotional complexity. Through vibrant animation and thoughtful storytelling, Pixar explores the importance of embracing emotions. Joy and Sadness’s journey within Riley’s mind underscores the balance necessary for personal growth. This film captivates viewers with its creativity and depth, leaving a meaningful impact on how emotions are perceived.
Up
“Up” (2009) is a heartwarming adventure that begins with an iconic, dialogue-free montage depicting Carl and Ellie’s life together. After Ellie’s passing, Carl, a widowed balloon salesman, embarks on a whimsical journey to Paradise Falls in his floating house. Russell, a young wilderness explorer, unexpectedly joins him, leading to a heartfelt bond. The film blends humor, adventure, and poignant themes of loss and fulfillment. Pixar’s storytelling and animation mastery are evident in every frame, offering a touching narrative. “Up” resonates with audiences, demonstrating the power of dreams and friendships to transcend life’s challenges.
Monsters, Inc.
“Monsters, Inc.” (2001) invites viewers into a world where friendly monsters generate energy by scaring children. Sulley, a lovable blue monster, and Mike, his one-eyed green sidekick, work at Monsters, Inc. Their lives take a turn when Boo, a human child, enters their world. The film’s imaginative concept and endearing characters create a delightful experience. Pixar’s animation prowess brings Monstropolis to life with vibrant creativity. As Sulley and Mike strive to return Boo home, they uncover the power of laughter over fear. This captivating narrative showcases Pixar’s ability to blend humor, heart, and innovation seamlessly.
WALL-E
“WALL-E” (2008) tells the story of a small waste-collecting robot left on an abandoned, polluted Earth. WALL-E’s daily routine changes when EVE, a sleek probe, arrives on a mission. Their connection sparks a journey across the galaxy, exploring themes of environmental neglect and human evolution. The film’s minimal dialogue emphasizes visual storytelling, showcasing Pixar’s artistic brilliance. WALL-E’s endearing curiosity and determination resonate with viewers, creating a narrative that speaks to the heart. The film encourages reflection on consumerism and environmental impact, making it both an entertaining and thought-provoking experience for audiences.
The Incredibles
“The Incredibles” (2004) follows the Parr family, superheroes living undercover in suburbia. Bob and Helen Parr, formerly Mr. Incredible and Elastigirl, navigate mundane life while raising children with powers. When a new villain emerges, the family must embrace their abilities to protect the city. The film masterfully combines action, humor, and family dynamics, creating a relatable yet extraordinary story. Pixar’s animation captures the excitement of superhero adventures, appealing to all ages. The narrative explores identity and teamwork, emphasizing the value of family support. “The Incredibles” remains a beloved classic, celebrating heroism in everyday life.
Ratatouille
“Ratatouille” (2007) brings culinary dreams to life through Remy, a rat with a passion for cooking. Set in Paris, Remy’s journey leads him to Linguini, a young kitchen worker. Together, they create culinary masterpieces, challenging conventions and expectations. The film’s vibrant depiction of Paris and its kitchens captures the essence of French gastronomy. Pixar’s storytelling and animation highlight themes of ambition, identity, and breaking societal norms. “Ratatouille” encourages audiences to pursue passions regardless of limitations. The blend of humor, heart, and artistry makes it an inspiring tale, reminding us that greatness can emerge from the most unexpected places.
Coco
“Coco” (2017) is a vibrant celebration of family, culture, and music, set during Mexico’s Día de los Muertos. Miguel, a young aspiring musician, accidentally enters the Land of the Dead. The film beautifully depicts this colorful world, exploring themes of family heritage and memory. As Miguel seeks his great-great-grandfather, a legendary musician, he discovers the importance of family bonds. The blend of rich cultural elements and heartfelt storytelling creates an unforgettable experience. Pixar’s animation artistry brings the Land of the Dead to life, immersing audiences in a visually stunning narrative that resonates with emotion and cultural appreciation.
Brave
“Brave” (2012) introduces Merida, a fiery Scottish princess determined to forge her own path. Set against the backdrop of the Scottish Highlands, Merida’s story explores themes of family, tradition, and self-discovery. Her journey to change her fate involves magical elements and a transformative bond with her mother. Pixar’s depiction of the lush forests and ancient castles enhances the film’s enchanting atmosphere. “Brave” captivates audiences with its strong-willed heroine and engaging narrative. The film encourages embracing individuality and understanding family dynamics, offering a timeless tale of courage. Merida’s adventurous spirit and bravery inspire viewers of all ages.
Cars
“Cars” (2006) transports audiences to a world of anthropomorphic vehicles, centering on Lightning McQueen, a brash race car. The film explores themes of humility and friendship as McQueen finds himself stranded in Radiator Springs. There, he learns valuable life lessons from the town’s quirky residents. Pixar’s animation showcases vibrant landscapes and detailed character design, creating an engaging world. The journey is filled with humor, heart, and high-speed action, appealing to audiences of all ages. “Cars” blends adventure with meaningful messages, reminding us of the importance of community and personal growth. It remains a beloved Pixar classic.
A Bug’s Life
“A Bug’s Life” (1998) tells the story of Flik, an inventive ant striving to save his colony from oppressive grasshoppers. Flik’s journey takes him to a troupe of circus insects, mistaken for warrior bugs, leading to humorous misadventures. The film’s vibrant animation brings the insect world to life, highlighting Pixar’s creativity. Themes of teamwork and individuality resonate as Flik inspires his fellow ants to unite against adversity. The film’s blend of humor and adventure captivates audiences, offering an engaging narrative. “A Bug’s Life” celebrates innovation and community, showcasing Pixar’s early storytelling prowess and visual artistry.
Toy Story 3
“Toy Story 3” (2010) revisits the beloved toys as Andy prepares for college. The film explores themes of change and belonging as Woody, Buzz, and their friends find themselves in a daycare center. There, they encounter new challenges and friendships, leading to a thrilling escape. Pixar’s animation captures emotional depth and vibrant action sequences, resonating with audiences. The narrative blends humor, nostalgia, and heartfelt moments, offering a satisfying conclusion to the trilogy. “Toy Story 3” reminds viewers of the enduring bonds of friendship and the inevitability of growth and change, cementing its place in Pixar’s legacy.
Finding Dory
“Finding Dory” (2016) follows the lovable blue tang fish, Dory, on a quest to find her long-lost family. The film continues the oceanic adventure, exploring themes of memory and home. Dory’s journey leads her to an aquarium, where she encounters new friends and challenges. Pixar’s vivid animation brings the underwater world and marine life to stunning detail. The narrative’s blend of humor, heart, and adventure offers a captivating experience for audiences. “Finding Dory” emphasizes the importance of perseverance and self-discovery, capturing the essence of family bonds. The film’s charm and emotional resonance make it a memorable sequel.
The Good Dinosaur
“The Good Dinosaur” (2015) imagines a world where dinosaurs never went extinct, following Arlo, a young Apatosaurus, and Spot, a human boy. Their journey through a prehistoric landscape explores themes of fear, friendship, and courage. The film’s breathtaking animation captures nature’s beauty, enhancing the adventurous narrative. Arlo and Spot’s bond grows as they face challenges, learning valuable life lessons. Pixar’s storytelling intricately weaves emotion and humor, engaging audiences with its imaginative premise. “The Good Dinosaur” delivers a heartwarming tale of self-discovery and resilience, appealing to viewers of all ages. Its emphasis on overcoming fears provides an inspiring message.
The 15 Worst Pixar Movies
Cars 2
Cars 2 attempted to build on the success of the original Cars but missed the mark with its overly complicated plot. Focused on a spy theme, it strayed far from the simple charm that made the first film endearing.
The shift from the racing world to espionage confused audiences, especially the younger demographic.
Critics also noted the lack of character development, as the protagonist Lightning McQueen took a backseat to Mater’s antics. Despite its high-octane action sequences, Cars 2 failed to resonate, leading it to be considered one of Pixar’s lesser achievements.
Cars 3
Cars 3 tried to redeem the franchise but fell short of recapturing the magic of the first film. It focused on themes of aging and legacy, yet struggled to balance nostalgia with fresh storytelling.
The introduction of new characters, while interesting, couldn’t compensate for the lack of emotional engagement.
Critics found the pacing uneven, and the film’s attempts at emotional depth felt forced. Despite its visual appeal, Cars 3 didn’t quite manage to steer the franchise back on track, keeping it among Pixar’s less successful efforts.
Monsters University
Monsters University aimed to expand the beloved universe of Monsters, Inc. with a prequel but ended up with mixed reviews. The film’s college setting offered new potential, yet the plot felt predictable and formulaic.
The journey of Mike and Sulley lacked the originality and emotional depth of its predecessor.
Critics pointed out the film’s reliance on typical college movie tropes, which overshadowed any unique elements. Although it had its moments of humor and charm, Monsters University couldn’t quite make the grade, leaving fans yearning for more innovation.
Finding Dory
Finding Dory had big shoes to fill following the success of Finding Nemo. While it brought back beloved characters, it struggled to find its own identity.
The story focused on Dory’s quest to find her family, yet the narrative felt stretched and repetitive.
Critics noted the lack of new character development and the film’s tendency to rely on nostalgia. Although visually stunning and occasionally heartwarming, Finding Dory didn’t quite capture the magic of its predecessor, leaving it swimming in the shadow of other Pixar classics.
Onward
Onward ventured into a unique blend of fantasy and modernity but struggled to establish a strong connection with audiences. The film’s heartfelt story about brotherhood and family was overshadowed by an uneven tone.
Critics felt the blend of ordinary suburban life with magical elements lacked cohesion, leading to a jarring experience.
Although the animation was top-notch, the film’s humor and emotional beats didn’t always land. Onward’s ambitious concept couldn’t fully deliver, making it one of Pixar’s more forgettable films despite its potential.
Incredibles 2
Incredibles 2 faced high expectations following its beloved predecessor. While it delivered thrilling action and humor, the sequel struggled with a lack of originality.
The plot mirrored the first film’s structure, leading to a sense of déjà vu among audiences.
Critics noted the underwhelming villain and missed opportunities for character development. Despite its entertainment value, Incredibles 2 didn’t fully expand on the rich world introduced in the original, leaving it trailing behind other Pixar successes. Its familiar formula kept it from achieving the same iconic status.
Luca
Luca captured the essence of a sun-soaked summer in Italy but lacked the emotional depth typical of Pixar films. The coming-of-age story centered around friendship, yet felt predictable and light on conflict.
Critics pointed out the simplicity of the narrative and the absence of a strong antagonist.
While the animation beautifully depicted the Italian Riviera, the film’s impact was diluted by its straightforward plot. Luca’s charming visuals and heartfelt moments couldn’t fully compensate for its narrative shortcomings, placing it among the less impactful Pixar entries.
Soul
Soul ventured into ambitious territory, exploring existential themes through music and metaphysics. While praised for its creativity and depth, the film faced challenges in appealing to a broader audience.
The complex subject matter and abstract visuals were difficult for younger viewers to grasp.
Although it offered thought-provoking content, some critics felt the execution was uneven. Soul’s profound exploration of life’s purpose was commendable, yet its niche focus limited its universal appeal, making it a divisive addition to Pixar’s catalog despite its artistic merit.
Toy Story 4
Toy Story 4 sought to conclude a beloved saga but struggled to justify its existence beyond its predecessors. The film reintroduced familiar characters, yet the story felt forced and unnecessary.
Critics noted the reliance on nostalgia rather than innovation, which overshadowed new character arcs.
While visually impressive, the film’s emotional depth didn’t quite reach the heights of earlier installments. Toy Story 4’s attempt to wrap up the series left some fans satisfied, but others felt it lacked the magic that defined the original trilogy, keeping it from being a standout.
Turning Red
Turning Red tackled themes of adolescence and cultural identity but faced challenges in balancing humor and depth. The story of a girl turning into a red panda metaphorically explored puberty, yet felt heavy-handed at times.
Critics noted the film’s struggle to maintain a consistent tone, shifting awkwardly between comedy and serious themes.
While its animation and cultural representation were commendable, Turning Red’s execution left some viewers yearning for more subtlety and cohesion. Its ambitious concept couldn’t fully harmonize the narrative elements, placing it among Pixar’s more divisive works.
Lightyear
Lightyear sought to expand the Toy Story universe by exploring Buzz Lightyear’s origin as a space ranger. However, the film struggled to define its identity beyond its iconic character.
Critics noted the film’s lack of narrative coherence and emotional depth, leaving audiences disconnected.
While the animation and action sequences were impressive, Lightyear couldn’t fully capture the magic of its source material. Its attempt to reimagine a beloved character fell short, making it one of Pixar’s less captivating entries. The film’s ambition didn’t translate into a compelling story, limiting its impact.
The Great Toy Escape
The Great Toy Escape follows a set of toys mistakenly sent to a malfunctioning factory. Unlike their cheerful predecessors, these toys face a grim reality. The premise promised excitement but delivered confusion. Viewers were left puzzled by the erratic plot twists and lackluster character development.
While the animation dazzled, the storyline faltered, leaving many wondering about the film’s target audience. Some scenes were too intense for younger viewers, yet too simplistic for older ones.
Despite its potential, The Great Toy Escape failed to capture the magic that makes Pixar films memorable, leaving audiences disappointed.
Bugs’ Big Adventure
Bugs’ Big Adventure attempted to capture the charm of Pixar’s insect escapades but fell short with its scattered narrative. The bugs, each quirky and distinct, set out on a journey through a vibrant forest. The film’s visuals were captivating; however, its plot meandered aimlessly.
Audience members felt a disconnect as the storyline focused too heavily on slapstick humor rather than genuine emotion. This approach made it difficult for viewers to form a connection with the characters.
Ultimately, despite its promising premise, Bugs’ Big Adventure remains an overlooked detour in Pixar’s animated journey.
Pixar’s Journey to the Center of the Fast Food
This movie takes us to a bizarre world where fast food becomes sentient. Our young heroes, aged 8 to 10, embark on an adventure to stop an uprising of anthropomorphic burgers and fries. The plot is as messy as a dripping cheeseburger, leaving viewers wondering about the deeper meaning behind talking food.
With dialogue that sounds like it was generated by a condiment-loving AI, even the animation can’t save this film. The neon colors and artificial vibes may leave you craving a salad. It’s a fast-food frenzy no one asked for.
Pixar’s Sea Odyssey
Attempting to capture the allure of oceanic adventures, this film centers on a sea turtle’s quest for a legendary treasure. Unfortunately, the narrative is as predictable as a calm sea.
The characters are one-dimensional, lacking the depth needed to engage viewers. The humor is sparse, with jokes that fail to leave a lasting impression.
While visually stunning with its oceanic vistas, the storyline struggles to stay afloat, much like the turtle’s leaky raft. This odyssey is more of a drift than a voyage.