In recent years, the popularity of animated films has surged, not just among children but also among teenagers and adults who appreciate the artistry and storytelling depth that these movies offer. Streaming platforms have made it more convenient than ever to access a diverse range of animated films, and Hotstar has emerged as one of the leading destinations for high-quality animation content.
1. Introduction: Best Animated Movies on Hotstar
Animation has become one of the most powerful storytelling mediums, transcending age groups and cultural boundaries. From breathtaking visuals to emotionally resonant narratives, animated movies have captivated audiences worldwide. Whether it’s heartwarming family-friendly adventures, high-energy action-packed stories, or deep and thought-provoking tales, animated films offer something for everyone.
Why Hotstar is the Ultimate Destination for Animated Movies
Hotstar is home to a vast and diverse collection of animated movies, making it a go-to platform for animation lovers. Here’s what makes Hotstar stand out when it comes to watching the best animated movies:
- Exclusive Disney+ Collection – With Hotstar integrating Disney+ content, subscribers gain access to a vast library of Disney and Pixar classics, including some of the most critically acclaimed animated films ever made. From timeless fairy tales to modern-day animated blockbusters, the platform offers an extensive range of family-friendly and award-winning animations.
- Marvel and Star Wars Animated Films – Fans of action-packed superhero and sci-fi stories can find an array of Marvel and Star Wars animated films on Hotstar, offering thrilling adventures beyond the live-action movies.
- Indian Animated Movies – Hotstar features a variety of Bollywood and regional animated films, showcasing Indian mythology, folklore, and original storytelling. These films are particularly appealing to audiences who enjoy cultural narratives with rich visual storytelling.
- DreamWorks and Other International Animated Films – Apart from Disney and Pixar, Hotstar also offers animated movies from renowned studios like DreamWorks, known for delivering high-quality and entertaining animated films.
Seamless Viewing Experience on Hotstar
In addition to its impressive animated movie library, Hotstar ensures a seamless and immersive viewing experience:
- High-Quality Streaming – Many animated films are available in HD and 4K resolution, ensuring exceptional picture quality.
- Multilingual Subtitles and Dubbing – Viewers can watch movies in their preferred language, with multiple dubbing options available for Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and other regional languages.
- Family-Friendly Entertainment – Hotstar’s diverse selection of animated movies makes it an ideal platform for family entertainment, offering something enjoyable for both kids and adults.
What This Blog Covers
This guide will provide a comprehensive list of the best animated movies on Hotstar, covering various categories:
- Critically acclaimed and award-winning animated films that have set new standards in storytelling and animation.
- Underrated animated movies that deserve more attention for their unique storytelling and visual appeal.
- New and trending animated movies (2024-2025) that are currently making waves on Hotstar.
- Tips on finding the best animated films using Hotstar’s search filters, IMDb ratings, and audience reviews.
Whether you are looking for a nostalgic trip with classic Disney films, an action-packed superhero animation, or a visually stunning modern animated movie, Hotstar has an incredible lineup of options to choose from. Keep reading to discover the best animated movies that should be on your must-watch list.
2. Why Watch the Best Animated Movies on Hotstar?
Animated movies are more than just entertainment—they are powerful storytelling tools that blend creativity, emotions, and technology to create unforgettable cinematic experiences. Whether it's heartwarming family dramas, thrilling action-packed adventures, or visually stunning fantasy worlds, animation appeals to people of all ages.
Hotstar has positioned itself as one of the top streaming platforms for animated movies, offering a wide selection of films from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and Indian animation studios. If you are looking for the best place to watch high-quality animated movies, here’s why Hotstar is the ultimate destination.
1. Exclusive Disney+ Hotstar Content
One of the biggest advantages of watching animated movies on Hotstar is the exclusive Disney+ collection. With its partnership with Disney, Hotstar provides access to an extensive catalog of Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars animated films, making it a go-to platform for animation lovers.
A. Disney Classics and Modern Hits
Disney has been a pioneer in animation for decades, producing timeless classics and modern animated masterpieces. Hotstar offers a vast selection of Disney’s most popular films, ensuring that viewers of all generations can relive their favorite stories or discover new ones.
- Classic Disney Movies – Enjoy timeless films like The Lion King, Beauty and the Beast, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Aladdin, and The Little Mermaid.
- Modern Disney Animation – Watch contemporary hits such as Frozen, Moana, Zootopia, Raya and the Last Dragon, and Encanto, which combine stunning visuals with engaging storytelling.
B. Pixar's Award-Winning Animated Films
Pixar is known for creating some of the most emotionally compelling and visually spectacular animated movies. Hotstar features a huge collection of Pixar films, making it easy to enjoy these masterpieces anytime.
- Popular Pixar Films – Watch critically acclaimed movies like Toy Story, Finding Nemo, Up, Inside Out, Soul, Coco, and Luca, which are known for their powerful storytelling and breathtaking animation.
C. Marvel & Star Wars Animated Films
For superhero and sci-fi fans, Hotstar has a fantastic collection of Marvel and Star Wars animated films, offering thrilling adventures beyond the live-action franchises.
- Marvel Animated Films – Experience action-packed movies like Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, What If…?, and various animated adaptations of the Avengers and X-Men series.
- Star Wars Animation – Dive into the Star Wars universe with Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Star Wars: Rebels, and other exciting animated films from the galaxy far, far away.
2. Bollywood & Regional Animated Movies
Hotstar is not just about Hollywood animation—it also offers a rich selection of Indian animated films, including Bollywood and regional-language animated movies in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and other languages.
A. Hindi Animated Films
Bollywood has produced some fantastic animated movies over the years, and Hotstar features many of them:
- Hanuman (2005) – A beloved mythological animation film based on the life of Lord Hanuman.
- Bal Ganesh (2007) – A fun and engaging animated movie exploring Lord Ganesha’s childhood adventures.
- Krishna Aur Kans (2012) – A beautifully animated film that tells the story of Lord Krishna’s early life.
B. Tamil & Telugu Animated Films
Regional animation lovers can explore Tamil and Telugu animated movies, as well as Tamil/Telugu-dubbed versions of international hits.
- Chhota Bheem & The Curse of Damyaan (2012) – A popular Indian animated feature about the adventures of Chhota Bheem.
- Punyakoti (2019) – A unique Kannada animated film based on Indian folklore.
- Dubbed Disney & Pixar Movies – Enjoy Disney and Pixar films in Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi, making them accessible to a wider audience.
3. High-Quality Streaming with Subtitles & Dubbing
One of the major reasons to watch animated movies on Hotstar is the premium streaming experience it offers. Unlike other platforms, Hotstar ensures that you get the best visual and audio quality for an immersive experience.
- HD and 4K Streaming – Many animated movies are available in high-definition (HD) and even 4K resolution, ensuring crisp visuals and stunning animation clarity.
- Multilingual Subtitles – For those who prefer the original audio, subtitles in multiple languages make it easy to follow the story without missing important details.
- Multiple Dubbing Options – Viewers can enjoy movies in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and other regional languages, making it accessible to a diverse audience.
4. Family-Friendly Entertainment for All Ages
Animated movies are not just for children—they offer entertainment, meaningful themes, and life lessons for viewers of all ages. Whether you are watching with family, friends, or alone, Hotstar’s animated collection caters to every age group.
A. Kid-Friendly Animated Movies
Hotstar has a vast selection of fun, family-friendly animated films that are perfect for children. These movies are entertaining, educational, and filled with positive messages.
- Frozen, The Incredibles, Finding Nemo, Ratatouille, and Cars are just a few examples of kid-friendly movies available on the platform.
B. Animated Movies for Adults
Not all animated films are made for kids—many feature mature themes, deep storytelling, and complex characters. Hotstar offers a selection of animated movies that appeal to adult audiences as well.
- Movies like Soul, WALL-E, Spirited Away, Batman: The Killing Joke, and Love, Death & Robots (anthology) explore philosophical, emotional, and thought-provoking themes, making them perfect for adults who love animation.
Why Choose Hotstar for Animated Movies?
Hotstar is one of the best platforms for watching animated movies, thanks to its exclusive Disney+ content, Bollywood & regional animated films, HD streaming, and family-friendly collection. Here’s why you should make it your go-to platform for animated entertainment:
- Massive Selection – From Disney classics to Indian animation, Pixar masterpieces to Marvel & Star Wars animated films, Hotstar has a vast and diverse catalog.
- High-Quality Streaming – Experience HD and 4K visuals with smooth streaming and excellent sound quality.
- Multilingual Options – Watch movies in English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and more, with dubbing and subtitles.
- Family-Friendly & Diverse – Whether you’re watching with kids, family, or on your own, there’s something for everyone.
With such an incredible collection, Hotstar remains one of the top choices for animated movie lovers. Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled family movie night, an action-packed superhero adventure, or a visually stunning animation masterpiece, Hotstar has something for you.
3. Best Animated Movies on Hotstar (With Reviews & IMDb Ratings)
Hotstar boasts an impressive collection of some of the best animated movies, particularly from Disney and Pixar. These films are known for their stunning animation, powerful storytelling, and emotional depth, making them timeless classics for audiences of all ages. Below is a closer look at some of the best Disney and Pixar animated movies available on Hotstar.
A. Best Disney & Pixar Animated Movies on Hotstar
1. The Lion King (1994 & 2019)
- IMDb Rating: 8.5 (1994), 6.8 (2019)
- Director: Roger Allers, Rob Minkoff (1994); Jon Favreau (2019)
- Why Watch?
- The 1994 version is one of Disney’s most beloved animated films, featuring iconic songs like Circle of Lifeand Hakuna Matata.
- The 2019 remake is a stunning visual spectacle, using cutting-edge CGI to bring the savanna and its characters to life.
- The story follows Simba’s journey from a carefree cub to a wise and courageous king, making it a timeless tale of responsibility, leadership, and self-discovery.
2. Toy Story Series (1995-2019)
- IMDb Rating: 8.3 – 8.7 (varies by film)
- Director: John Lasseter (Toy Story 1 & 2), Lee Unkrich (Toy Story 3), Josh Cooley (Toy Story 4)
- Why Watch?
- The first-ever fully CGI animated film, Toy Story (1995) revolutionized the animation industry and introduced audiences to Woody and Buzz Lightyear.
- Each sequel deepens the emotional impact, with Toy Story 3 (2010) being particularly heartfelt and nostalgic.
- The movies explore themes of friendship, loyalty, and the passage of time, making them as meaningful for adults as they are fun for children.
3. Frozen (2013) & Frozen 2 (2019)
- IMDb Rating: 7.4 (Frozen), 6.8 (Frozen 2)
- Director: Chris Buck, Jennifer Lee
- Why Watch?
- Frozen became a global phenomenon, thanks to its empowering story and unforgettable soundtrack, including Let It Go.
- The film tells the story of sisters Elsa and Anna, exploring themes of family, self-acceptance, and overcoming fear.
- Frozen 2 expands the lore, diving deeper into Elsa’s magical origins and delivering breathtaking animation.
- Perfect for fans of fantasy and musicals, offering stunning visuals, strong female leads, and emotional storytelling.
4. Finding Nemo (2003) & Finding Dory (2016)
- IMDb Rating: 8.2 (Finding Nemo), 7.3 (Finding Dory)
- Director: Andrew Stanton
- Why Watch?
- Finding Nemo is a visually stunning underwater adventure, following the journey of Marlin, a clownfish, searching for his lost son, Nemo.
- The film delivers a powerful message about trust, resilience, and embracing challenges.
- Finding Dory (2016) shifts the focus to the lovable but forgetful Dory, as she embarks on a personal journey to find her family.
- Both films showcase Pixar’s incredible animation technology, making ocean life feel vibrant and immersive.
5. Zootopia (2016)
- IMDb Rating: 8.0
- Director: Byron Howard, Rich Moore
- Why Watch?
- A unique and engaging mystery story set in a world where anthropomorphic animals live in harmony—until hidden biases surface.
- The film follows Judy Hopps, a determined rabbit police officer, and Nick Wilde, a sly fox con artist, as they uncover a conspiracy in their city.
- Zootopia cleverly addresses themes of prejudice, stereotypes, and social justice, making it a fun but thought-provoking film for all ages.
- The film’s blend of comedy, action, and mystery keeps viewers entertained while delivering a meaningful message.
These best animated movies on Hotstar showcase exceptional storytelling, breathtaking visuals, and emotional depth, making them must-watch films for audiences of all ages. Whether you love classic Disney magic, heartwarming Pixar tales, or socially relevant animation, Hotstar has something for everyone.
B. Best Marvel & Star Wars Animated Movies on Hotstar
Hotstar, through its Disney+ collection, offers a fantastic lineup of Marvel and Star Wars animated movies, catering to superhero enthusiasts and sci-fi fans. These films feature groundbreaking animation, action-packed storytelling, and iconic characters. Below are some of the best Marvel and Star Wars animated movies on Hotstar.
1. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018)
- IMDb Rating: 8.4
- Director: Bob Persichetti, Peter Ramsey, Rodney Rothman
- Why Watch?
- A visually stunning multiverse adventure, introducing a fresh take on Spider-Man.
- Follows Miles Morales, who discovers he has Spider-Man-like abilities and encounters different Spider-People from alternate universes.
- Academy Award Winner for Best Animated Feature, known for its unique comic-book-style animation.
2. Big Hero 6 (2014)
- IMDb Rating: 7.8
- Director: Don Hall, Chris Williams
- Why Watch?
- A Marvel-inspired superhero animation, blending action, humor, and emotional depth.
- Centers on Hiro Hamada, a robotics genius, and his lovable companion Baymax, as they form a superhero team to fight a mysterious villain.
- Won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, praised for its stunning animation and heartwarming story.
3. Star Wars: The Clone Wars (2008)
- IMDb Rating: 8.1 (TV series) | 5.9 (Movie)
- Director: Dave Filoni
- Why Watch?
- A crucial addition to the Star Wars saga, filling in the story between Attack of the Clones and Revenge of the Sith.
- Explores Anakin Skywalker's transformation, Ahsoka Tano’s journey, and epic battles.
- The TV series became a fan favorite, praised for its storytelling, character development, and epic space battles.
4. Spider-Man: The Animated Series (1994-1998)
- IMDb Rating: 8.4
- Why Watch?
- One of the most beloved Spider-Man adaptations, featuring Peter Parker’s journey as he battles iconic villains like Green Goblin, Venom, and Kingpin.
- Known for its mature storytelling and faithful comic book adaptation.
5. Star Wars Rebels (2014-2018)
- IMDb Rating: 8.0
- Why Watch?
- A highly engaging animated series set between Episodes III and IV, following a group of rebels fighting against the Galactic Empire.
- Introduces Ezra Bridger, Kanan Jarrus, and Grand Admiral Thrawn, key characters in Star Wars lore.
- Features stunning animation, exciting battles, and emotional character arcs.
6. What If…? (2021-Present)
- IMDb Rating: 7.4
- Why Watch?
- A Marvel multiverse exploration, reimagining major MCU events with alternate storylines.
- Features animated versions of iconic Marvel characters, voiced by original actors.
- Offers fresh takes on characters like Captain Carter, Zombie Avengers, and Supreme Strange.
7. Star Wars: The Bad Batch (2021-Present)
- IMDb Rating: 7.8
- Why Watch?
- Follows Clone Force 99, a group of genetically enhanced clones navigating a changing galaxy after Order 66.
- A great continuation of The Clone Wars, exploring the rise of the Galactic Empire.
- Features intense action, deep storytelling, and stunning animation.
8. Ultimate Spider-Man (2012-2017)
- IMDb Rating: 7.2
- Why Watch?
- A modern, action-packed adaptation of Spider-Man’s adventures, blending humor and intense battles.
- Features guest appearances by the Avengers, X-Men, and other Marvel heroes.
9. Avengers Assemble (2013-2019)
- IMDb Rating: 7.0
- Why Watch?
- A thrilling animated series bringing together Marvel’s most iconic superheroes.
- Features Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, Hulk, Black Widow, and Hawkeye battling against Loki, Thanos, and other villains.
10. LEGO Star Wars Specials
- A fun, lighthearted take on Star Wars characters and stories, perfect for younger audiences.
- Popular titles include:
- LEGO Star Wars: The Freemaker Adventures (2016-2017)
- LEGO Star Wars Terrifying Tales (2021)
- LEGO Star Wars Summer Vacation (2022)
These Marvel and Star Wars animated movies on Hotstar provide an action-packed cinematic experience, blending spectacular animation, deep storytelling, and legendary characters. Whether you're a superhero fan, a sci-fi lover, or a Star Wars enthusiast, this collection is a must-watch.
C. Best Bollywood & Indian Animated Movies on Hotstar
Hotstar offers a diverse collection of Indian animated movies, blending mythology, adventure, and folklore to create engaging storytelling experiences. These films not only entertain but also introduce audiences to Indian culture, history, and legends. Here are some of the best Bollywood and Indian animated movies on Hotstar that you shouldn't miss.
1. Hanuman (2005)
- IMDb Rating: 7.7
- Director: V.G. Samant
- Why Watch?
- A groundbreaking Indian animated movie, bringing to life the legendary Hanuman, one of the most revered deities in Hindu mythology.
- Chronicles Hanuman’s childhood, his devotion to Lord Ram, and his mighty adventures.
- The film’s success paved the way for Indian animated storytelling, making it a milestone in Indian animation.
2. Chhota Bheem and the Curse of Damyaan (2012)
- IMDb Rating: 6.2
- Director: Rajiv Chilaka
- Why Watch?
- A blockbuster animated adventure, featuring the beloved character Chhota Bheem.
- Follows Bheem and his friends as they battle the evil sorcerer Damyaan, who seeks to take over the kingdom of Dholakpur.
- A perfect family-friendly animated movie with action, humor, and adventure.
3. Arjun: The Warrior Prince (2012)
- IMDb Rating: 7.5
- Director: Arnab Chaudhuri
- Why Watch?
- A visually stunning mythological action film based on the early life of Arjun, one of the greatest warriors of the Mahabharata.
- A co-production between Disney and UTV Motion Pictures, featuring high-quality animation.
- Showcases Arjun’s transformation from a young prince into a fearless warrior, making it a must-watch for fans of historical and epic tales.
4. Krishna Aur Kans (2012)
- IMDb Rating: 6.9
- Director: Vikram Veturi
- Why Watch?
- A mythological animated film that narrates the early years of Lord Krishna, focusing on his battles against King Kans.
- Filled with exciting action sequences, music, and divine elements.
- A great introduction to Indian mythology for younger audiences.
5. Roadside Romeo (2008)
- IMDb Rating: 5.0
- Director: Jugal Hansraj
- Why Watch?
- India’s first 3D-animated Bollywood musical film, produced by Yash Raj Films in collaboration with Disney.
- Features voice acting by Bollywood superstars Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor.
- A comedic love story following Romeo, a pampered dog, as he navigates street life and romance.
6. Delhi Safari (2012)
- IMDb Rating: 6.4
- Director: Nikhil Advani
- Why Watch?
- A unique eco-conscious animated movie, highlighting the importance of wildlife conservation.
- Follows a group of animals—a leopard cub, his mother, a monkey, a bear, and a parrot—as they embark on a journey to save their forest from destruction.
- Features voiceovers by renowned Bollywood actors like Akshaye Khanna, Suniel Shetty, and Boman Irani.
7. Motu Patlu: King of Kings (2016)
- IMDb Rating: 5.6
- Director: Suhas Kadav
- Why Watch?
- Based on the popular Indian cartoon series Motu Patlu, this film is an entertaining adventure for kids.
- Centers on Motu and Patlu as they help a lion named Guddu reclaim his jungle from a ruthless poacher.
- A fun-filled family movie with comedy, action, and moral lessons.
8. Bal Ganesh (2007)
- IMDb Rating: 6.3
- Director: Pankaj Sharma
- Why Watch?
- A beautifully animated mythological film about Lord Ganesha’s childhood adventures.
- Showcases important Hindu folklore, divine interventions, and playful stories of Ganesh.
- The film was popular among young audiences, leading to multiple sequels.
9. Jumbo (2008)
- IMDb Rating: 5.6
- Director: Kompin Kemgumnird
- Why Watch?
- A heartwarming adventure movie following Jumbo, a young elephant searching for his missing father.
- Features voice acting by Bollywood star Akshay Kumar.
- The film delivers themes of courage, family, and self-discovery, making it an emotional yet uplifting watch.
10. Ghatothkach – Master of Magic (2008)
- IMDb Rating: 5.8
- Director: Singeetam Srinivasa Rao
- Why Watch?
- An animated epic adventure based on Ghatothkach, the son of Bhima from the Mahabharata.
- Explores his childhood, magical powers, and heroic feats.
- Features engaging storytelling and vibrant animation.
Why Watch Bollywood & Indian Animated Movies on Hotstar?
- Diverse Selection: Hotstar offers a mix of mythological, action-packed, and fun animated films.
- High-Quality Animation: Many of these films showcase improved animation techniques.
- Cultural Relevance: These films bring Indian folklore and history to life in an entertaining way.
- Family-Friendly: A perfect watch for kids and adults, with lessons on bravery, friendship, and perseverance.
4. Latest Animated Movies and Series (2024-2025)
- "Miraculous World: Las Aventuras de Ladybug en Londres - La Carrera Contra el Tiempo"
- Release Date: January 3, 2025
- Synopsis: Ladybug and Cat Noir embark on a thrilling adventure in London, facing new challenges and adversaries in a race against time.
- Why Watch? This special episode offers fans of the "Miraculous" series an exciting storyline set against the backdrop of London, introducing fresh characters and high-stakes action.
- "Mickey y Yo" (Season 2)
- Release Date: January 8, 2025
- Synopsis: Mickey Mouse returns with more delightful adventures, bringing joy and laughter to audiences of all ages.
- Why Watch? The second season promises new stories and charming antics from the iconic character, making it a must-watch for families and Disney enthusiasts.
- "Canina"
- Release Date: January 24, 2025
- Synopsis: Details about this animated feature are currently limited, but it's anticipated to be an engaging addition to Disney's lineup.
- Why Watch? As a new entry in Disney's animated offerings, "Canina" is expected to deliver quality storytelling and animation.
Upcoming Disney+ Hotstar Exclusive Animated Films to Look Out For
- "Bullet/Bullet"
- Genre: Fantasy Action
- Original Network: Disney+ (Star Hub)
- Premiere: Mid-2025
- Language: Japanese
- Exclusive Region(s): Southeast Asia
- Status: In Production
- Synopsis: An upcoming anime series that promises a blend of fantasy elements and action-packed sequences.
- "Cat's Eye"
- Genre: Mystery Crime Drama
- Original Network: Disney+ (Star Hub)
- Premiere: 2025
- Language: Japanese
- Exclusive Region(s): Southeast Asia
- Status: In Production
- Synopsis: A modern adaptation of the classic manga, following the adventures of three sisters who lead double lives as art thieves.
- "Disney Twisted-Wonderland The Animation"
- Genre: Fantasy
- Original Network: Disney+ (Star Hub)
- Premiere: 2025
- Language: Japanese
- Exclusive Region(s): Southeast Asia
- Status: In Production
- Synopsis: An anime adaptation of the popular mobile game, transporting viewers to Night Raven College, a magical academy filled with intrigue.
- "Wandance"
- Genre: Coming-of-Age
- Original Network: Disney+ (Star Hub)
- Premiere: 2025
- Language: Japanese
- Exclusive Region(s): Southeast Asia
- Status: Series Order
- Synopsis: A story about a shy young man who takes bold steps to win the heart of a girl, exploring themes of love and self-discovery.
Details compiled from the list of Disney+ Hotstar original programming.
Note: Release dates and availability may vary by region. Please check Disney+ Hotstar for the most current information on releases in your area.
5. Hidden Gems: Underrated Animated Movies on Hotstar
While Disney, Pixar, and Marvel movies dominate the animated genre, there are several underrated animated films on Hotstar that have compelling narratives, unique animation styles, and deep emotional storytelling. These hidden gems might not have received widespread commercial success, but they are masterpieces in their own right. Whether it’s a heartwarming tale, an inspiring adventure, or an artistic marvel, these movies deserve more recognition.
A. Must-Watch Lesser-Known Animated Movies on Hotstar
1. The Breadwinner (2017)
- Director: Nora Twomey
- IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
- Synopsis: Set in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan, this film follows Parvana, a courageous young girl who disguises herself as a boy to provide for her family after her father is wrongfully imprisoned.
- Why It Deserves More Recognition:
- Unlike traditional animated films, The Breadwinner offers a deeply moving and realistic portrayal of resilience, gender struggles, and family bonds.
- Produced by Cartoon Saloon, the studio behind Wolfwalkers and Song of the Sea, the film has a distinct, artistic animation style that adds to its emotional depth.
- It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature but remains lesser-known compared to mainstream animated films.
2. Ron’s Gone Wrong (2021)
- Director: Sarah Smith, Jean-Philippe Vine
- IMDb Rating: 7.0/10
- Synopsis: In a world where every child owns a personal AI-powered robot, Barney, a lonely middle-schooler, receives a malfunctioning bot named Ron. Their friendship leads to hilarious yet meaningful moments.
- Why It Deserves More Recognition:
- Explores the consequences of social media and technology dependency in a fun yet thought-provoking way.
- Offers a refreshing take on friendship and individuality in an increasingly digital world.
- Though overshadowed by other Disney and Pixar films, it stands out for its humor and emotional depth.
3. Ernest & Célestine (2012)
- Director: Stéphane Aubier, Vincent Patar, Benjamin Renner
- IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
- Synopsis: A charming French animated film about the unlikely friendship between a bear, Ernest, and a young mouse, Célestine, in a world where their species are expected to remain separate.
- Why It Deserves More Recognition:
- Features a stunning watercolor-inspired animation style that feels like a moving storybook.
- Challenges societal norms and prejudices through a heartwarming and simple yet powerful narrative.
- Though it was nominated for an Academy Award, it didn’t receive the same attention as other animated films released in the same period.
4. Frankenweenie (2012)
- Director: Tim Burton
- IMDb Rating: 6.9/10
- Synopsis: A young boy, Victor, loses his pet dog, Sparky, but finds a way to bring him back to life, leading to unexpected consequences.
- Why It Deserves More Recognition:
- A black-and-white stop-motion animated film that pays tribute to classic horror movies.
- Unlike traditional children’s films, Frankenweenie blends gothic aesthetics with emotional storytelling.
- Despite being a Tim Burton film, it remains underrated compared to The Nightmare Before Christmas or Corpse Bride.
5. The Good Dinosaur (2015)
- Director: Peter Sohn
- IMDb Rating: 6.7/10
- Synopsis: Set in an alternate timeline where dinosaurs never went extinct, a young Apatosaurus named Arlo embarks on a journey to find his way home after being separated from his family.
- Why It Deserves More Recognition:
- While it didn't achieve the commercial success of other Pixar films, it features some of the most breathtaking animation, especially in terms of landscapes and environmental details.
- The movie focuses on self-discovery, courage, and friendship, making it an emotionally touching watch.
- It might not be as action-packed as other Pixar films, but its simplicity and visual storytelling make it a hidden gem.
B. Why These Movies Stand Out
- Unique Animation Styles: Unlike mainstream animated films, these movies use various styles, from hand-drawn (Ernest & Célestine) to stop-motion (Frankenweenie) and watercolor-based aesthetics (The Breadwinner).
- Deep & Meaningful Storytelling: Many of these films tackle real-life themes such as grief, self-identity, and societal expectations, making them thought-provoking rather than just visually entertaining.
- Critical Acclaim Yet Underrated: Some of these movies have been nominated for or won prestigious awards but remain lesser-known due to limited marketing or overshadowing by major Disney and Pixar films.
- Appeals to Both Kids and Adults: While often categorized as family-friendly, these movies resonate with adults due to their emotional depth, mature themes, and artistic storytelling.
C. Where to Start?
If you are looking for something different from the usual big-budget animated blockbusters, start with The Breadwinnerfor a deeply moving experience, Ron’s Gone Wrong for a fun yet relevant take on technology, or Frankenweenie for a Tim Burton-style spooky yet heartwarming story.
These hidden gems on Hotstar offer a refreshing viewing experience that showcases the diversity of animated storytelling. Give them a watch, and you might find a new favorite.
6. How to Find the Best Animated Movies on Hotstar?
With a vast collection of animated films available on Hotstar, finding the best ones to watch can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you're searching for timeless classics, the latest releases, or hidden gems, using the right strategies can help you discover high-quality animated movies that suit your preferences. Here’s how you can easily find the best animated movies on Hotstar:
A. Use Hotstar’s Search Filters for a Personalized Experience
Hotstar provides various search and filter options to make it easier to find the right animated movies:
- Genre Filter: Select the "Animation" category to instantly get a list of animated films.
- Popularity & Trending Section: Check for movies trending in the animation category, which usually includes both classic favorites and newly released hits.
- Language Preferences: Hotstar offers animated films in multiple languages, including English, Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu. You can filter by language to find movies in your preferred option.
- New Releases & Recommended For You: Keep an eye on new additions and AI-generated recommendations based on your previous viewing history.
By using these filters, you can narrow down your choices and find exactly what you’re looking for without spending too much time browsing.
B. Check IMDb Ratings and Audience Reviews for Quality Picks
Before watching an animated movie, it’s helpful to check its reception among critics and audiences:
- IMDb Ratings & Reviews:
- Movies with an IMDb rating of 7.5 or above are generally considered excellent choices.
- Look for user reviews on IMDb to understand whether the film matches your interests.
- Hotstar sometimes integrates IMDb ratings within its movie descriptions, making it easier to assess a film’s popularity.
- Google & YouTube Reviews:
- Search for movie reviews on Google or YouTube to get a quick idea about the animation quality, storyline, and audience reception.
- Film critics and animation enthusiasts often provide in-depth reviews that can help in decision-making.
By checking IMDb ratings and reviews, you can avoid low-rated or less engaging films while prioritizing the best-rated animated content.
C. Follow Curated Lists and Trending Movie Suggestions
- Hotstar’s "Top Picks" & "Trending Now" Sections:
- These sections regularly update to feature the most popular animated movies among viewers.
- Trending movies often include recent releases and audience favorites.
- Curated Lists on Blogs & Social Media:
- Many entertainment websites and animation-focused blogs create annual lists of the best animated movies on Hotstar, categorized by genre, age group, or language.
- Following popular movie review pages on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter can also help you discover must-watch recommendations.
- Community & Fan Recommendations:
- Joining online communities or forums such as Reddit’s r/animation or Facebook movie groups can help you discover underrated animated films.
- Engaging in discussions about animated movies on platforms like LinkedIn or X (formerly Twitter) can provide insights into hidden gems and audience favorites.
Final Tip: Create Your Own Watchlist
After exploring Hotstar’s filters, IMDb ratings, and curated lists, start building your own watchlist. Save movies that interest you so you always have something exciting to watch without needing to search every time.
By using these strategies, you can easily navigate through Hotstar’s extensive collection and find the best animated movies suited to your taste—whether you prefer heartwarming Pixar classics, action-packed Marvel animations, or hidden indie gems.
7. Conclusion
Animated movies have a universal appeal, captivating audiences of all ages with their compelling stories, breathtaking visuals, and unforgettable characters. Whether it’s Disney and Pixar classics, Marvel and Star Wars animated adventures, or Bollywood and Indian animated films, Hotstar offers a diverse collection of some of the best animated movies to enjoy.
From iconic titles like The Lion King, Toy Story, Frozen, and Zootopia to superhero spectacles like Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse and Big Hero 6, there’s something for everyone. The platform also features critically acclaimed Indian animated films, such as Arjun: The Warrior Prince and Hanuman, along with new and upcoming releases that continue to expand its animation library.
For those looking to discover hidden gems, Hotstar’s extensive selection of underrated animated films ensures that there’s always something fresh to watch. By using search filters, checking IMDb ratings, and following curated recommendations, viewers can easily find the best animated movies that match their interests.