From colorful cartoon pups to fantastically animated fish and flying food, these are the top 20 best animated movies to watch right now. Whether you’re looking for a heartwarming family adventure, a laugh-out-loud comedy or a visually stunning fantasy, animated films offer something for everyone. This list highlights a mix of timeless classics and brand-new releases that are currently making waves across streaming platforms and On Demand.
Keep an eye on this list as it is updated with the latest and greatest animated movies so you can be sure you’re in the loop. From The Croods: A New Age to Trolls World Tour, this list will help animated movie fans stay up to date on the most popular films available.
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TOP 20 ANIMATED MOVIES TO WATCH
Let’s get started. Here are the trending action movies that TV-watchers are enjoying right now, with all the information you need to check them out for yourself.
1. ‘The Croods: A New Age’
↑ 63 vs. Prior Week
Be ready to embark on an uproarious and heartwarming journey with The Croods: A New Age. In this much-anticipated sequel to the original hit, we see our favorite prehistoric family, The Croods meet a new clan who claim to be more evolved. As the Croods grapple with the Bettermans’ conceited ways, they discover an even bigger threat. The movie expertly blends hilarity with an emotional core, making it a must-watch for both children and adults looking for an interesting take on societal evolution and family values.
2. ‘How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World’
↑ 15 vs. Prior Week
In How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World, the beloved bond between Hiccup and Toothless is tested like never before. As the young Viking chief continues to build a peaceful dragon utopia on Berk, a looming new threat emerges in the form of Grimmel, a ruthless dragon hunter with his sights set on Toothless. Meanwhile, the discovery of a mysterious, glowing Light Fury sends Toothless spiraling into an unfamiliar world of romance and independence. As Hiccup grapples with the weight of leadership and letting go, the gang embarks on a breathtaking quest to find the legendary Hidden World—rumored to be a safe haven for all dragons.
3. ‘Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation’
↔ vs. Prior Week
Another addition to the fan-favorite franchise, Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation takes audiences along as their preferred monster family embarks on a luxury sea getaway taking Dracula away from the usual hotel routine. What starts as a fun journey through monster volleyball matches, exotic expeditions and the pursuit of moon tans quickly turns. Their holiday soon capsizes into a nightmare when Mavis notices Dracula getting smitten with Ericka, the enigmatic captain of the ship. Concealing a perilous secret that could annihilate them all, this film leads your kids, and you, on a rollercoaster ride full of excitement, laughter and mystery.
4. ‘Despicable Me 3’
↑ 11 vs. Prior Week
In Despicable Me 3, we once again join Gru, voiced by the brilliant Steve Carell, on a rollicking ride of hilarity and heart. This time, Gru discovers he has a long-lost twin, Dru, and their reunion targets your funny bone while hitting on the universal themes of family and acceptance. Amid unpredictable antics of our favorite yellow henchmen, the Minions, and while facing off with the newest villain, Balthazar Bratt, Gru must decide if he’s ready to embrace his villainous heritage for the sake of brotherly bonding. This animated gem is sure to entertain and amuse viewers of all ages, while delivering a profound message of the paradox of personality.
5. ‘Hotel Transylvania’
↓ 4 vs. Prior Week
In the 2012 animated comedy Hotel Transylvania, a lively monster getaway created by Count Dracula (voiced by the versatile Adam Sandler) paints a hilariously unique picture of the world’s most famous monsters. This lavish retreat has a strict No Humans Allowed policy, serving as the go-to vacation spot for monsters like the Invisible Man and the Mummy.
Hilarious scenes unfurl when Dracula’s teenage daughter, Mavis (voiced by pop sensation Selena Gomez), throws a tumultuous 118th birthday party. However, when an unexpected human guest stumbles upon this extraordinary monster party, the outlandish tale reaches thrilling heights as he heartwarmingly falls for Mavis, causing chaos throughout the monster community.
6. ‘Hotel Transylvania: Transformania’
↓ 1 vs. Prior Week
Dive into a world of unexpected transformations and misadventures with the movie, Hotel Transylvania: Transformania. The plot of this fan-favorite series thickens when Van Helsing’s enigmatic new invention ends up turning Drac and his ghoul gang into humans, and Johnny into a monster — launching a bizarre role reversal! As they grapple with their new mismatched bodies, they find themselves racing against time to reverse their irreversible transformations. A delightful mix of humor, surprise and camaraderie, this film is a testament to friendship standing the test of strange circumstances and will make you laugh out loud while keeping your kids enthralled.
7. ‘The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water’
↑ 47 vs. Prior Week
Immerse yourself in the eccentric underwater realm with The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water (2015), where life is typically idyllic for SpongeBob Squarepants and his sea-inhabiting buddies — Patrick, Squidward, Mr. Krabs and Sandy. Their aquatic tranquility is shattered when the secret recipe for the sought-after Krabby Patties is stolen. Uniting with their usual foe, Plankton, the team is spurred above water where they meet the nefarious pirate, Burger Beard (Antonio Banderas), who has his own greedy intentions for the delicious treat. This underwater odyssey is both hilarious and thrilling, daring our beloved characters to navigate unfamiliar shores!
8. ‘The Boss Baby 2: Family Business’
↑ 81 vs. Prior Week
You know what they say: age is just a number! And that’s extremely true in the world of corporate infants in The Boss Baby 2: Family Business — a sequel you won’t forget. Boss Baby Ted and his brother Tim, now grown-ups living separate lives, receive a magical formula that turns them back into their past bickering baby and young boy selves.
Their mission? To save the firm run by Tina (Tim’s own baby daughter and the new Boss Baby), from a menacingly cute new rival prompting a fresh wave of hilarity. Amid absurd encounters and charming animation, viewers are whisked into a narrative stressing the enduring importance of family ties.
9. ‘Monsters, Inc.’
↑ 71 vs. Prior Week
Step into the world of Monsters, Inc., an animated marvel that takes you on a roller-coaster journey through the eyes of the city’s most lovable monsters, Sully and Mike. In an unexpected twist, the duo accidentally lets a human child into Monster City, sparking an exciting adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat. As they endeavor to return the curious toddler to her world, they confront their fears and debunk a massive conspiracy in their monstrous corporation. Voiced by the iconic John Goodman and Billy Crystal, Monsters, Inc. is a heartwarming tale about friendship and courage cloaked in whimsical humor.
10. ‘Ratatouille’
↑ 3 vs. Prior Week
Join Remy, a highly ambitious and exceptionally talented rat with a refined palate, in the animated masterpiece, Ratatouille. When Remy finds himself in the sewers of Paris, he ends up quite literally in the kitchen of his deceased hero’s restaurant. Partnering with a clumsy garbage boy, Linguini, the unlikely duo defy all odds in their fantastic journey to earn the prestigious title of top chef.
Dive into a delightful gastronomic caper, where the underdogs cook up a storm, creating enchanting dishes that spellbind even the harshest critics. Ratatouille is a delicious tale about following your dreams, no matter how unconventional they may be.
11. ‘Incredibles 2’
↑ 104 vs. Prior Week
In the dynamic sequel Incredibles 2 (2018), audiences are plunged back into the world of superheroes-in-hiding. Called to the frontline, the indomitable Elastigirl (as enlisted by telecommunications tycoon Winston Deavor) fights to restore the public’s love for superheroes. Meanwhile, Mr. Incredible faces his own heroic challenge at home, navigating the unruly world of parenthood with his three super-powered children, Violet, Dash and Jack-Jack.
As Screenslaver, the wily and malevolent cybercriminal, puts his plan to hypnotize the world through computer screens into action, the family must unite to save the day. Full of action, family dynamics and insightful social commentary, Incredibles 2 is an engaging animated adventure that will captivate you from start to finish.
12. ‘Hotel Transylvania 2’
↑ 91 vs. Prior Week
Released in 2015, the animation comedy Hotel Transylvania 2 delights with intriguing twists and charming characters. Adam Sandler voices Dracula, who has finally opened the doors of Hotel Transylvania to humans. Despite this progression, he has secretive concerns about his half-human grandson, Dennis, not embracing his vampire heritage.
Dracula’s friends are roped into transforming Dennis into a true monster while his parents are away, adding layers of fun and chaos. The plot thickens and hilarity ensues when Dracula’s stubborn and old-fashioned father, voiced by Mel Brooks, drops in unexpectedly. Don’t miss this heartwarming yet spooky kid’s comedy movie about embracing one’s true nature in the most unexpected ways.
13. ‘Cars 2’
↑ 99 vs. Prior Week
Lightning McQueen’s quest for the championship hits a roadblock when his trusty tow-truck buddy, Mater, finds himself tangled up in international espionage. As Mater bumps into the cunning British master spy Finn McMissile and the stunning spy-in-training Holley Shiftwell, the race goes beyond the track. With suspense, speed and spies, Cars 2 revs up the thrill for family viewers of all ages.
14. ‘Moana’
↑ 3 vs. Prior Week
An enchanting voyage across the sea awaits viewers in Disney’s Moana. The film dazzles with its beautifully animated landscapes and rich array of characters, superbly voiced by Auli’i Cravalho and Dwayne The Rock Johnson as Moana and Maui, respectively.
A teenager yearning to break conventions and follow her heart, Moana sets off on a daring journey to save her people from an impending doom, uncovering her own identity along the way. Fascinating folklore, toe-tapping music and compelling messages about bravery, discovery and respect for nature make Moana a film for all ages and generations.
15. ‘Finding Nemo’
↑ 85 vs. Prior Week
Experience the animated masterpiece that introduced millions to the wonders of the sea and some iconic aquatic friends: Finding Nemo. Join Marlin, an overly protective clownfish, voiced by Albert Brooks, on his heart-stopping journey across the vast ocean to find his stolen son, Nemo.
This heartwarming adventure presents a beautiful story of a father’s limitless love, courage, and determination, wrapped in Pixar’s breathtaking animation. From Ellen DeGeneres’ unforgettable performance as the lovable and forgetful Dory to the hilarious yet dangerous encounters with various sea creatures, Finding Nemo set a new standard for animated films while teaching profound life lessons.
16. ‘Despicable Me’
↓ 5 vs. Prior Week
In this animated delight, join the world’s most unconventional hero, Gru, voiced by the charismatic Steve Carell, on an unexpected journey. Despicable Me finds Gru, a self-proclaimed super-villain whose heart begins to thaw when he adopts three orphans for a grand scheme. But the unexpected love he develops for the trio leads him down a path of comedic uncertainty and warmth. Packed with heartfelt moments, lovable characters and a charming plot, this film masterfully combines humor, action and sweet sincerity, making it a must-watch for the entire family.
17. ‘Trolls’
↑ 8 vs. Prior Week
When the Troll Village is invaded by the ferocious Bergens, Poppy (voiced by Anna Kendrick), the jolliest troll ever born, must team up with Branch (voiced by Justin Timberlake), an overly-cautious and grumpy companion. In the vibrant 2016 movie Trolls, they embark on an adventure-packed journey to save their friends from the Bergens. Although they’re an unlikely team, their mission thrusts them into situations that make their differences glaring, but will they tolerate each other long enough to succeed? Bursting with music, laughter and heart, the film shows us the strength of friendship in the face of great adversity.
18. ‘Despicable Me 2’
↑ 101 vs. Prior Week
The box office hit, Despicable Me 2, is an exhilarating blend of comedy and adventure that will leave audiences of all ages thrilled and charmed. The story unfolds as Gru, voiced by the talented Steve Carell, trades his life of villainy for a shot at paternal happiness with his three adopted daughters. When a powerful new super-villain emerges, the Anti-Villain League recruits our unlikely hero and his army of adorable Minions to save the world, spawning a riot of unexpected laughs and heartwarming moments. This animated sequel delivers a flurry of entertainment packed with thrill, vibrant colors, and memorable characters, promising a joyful ride from beginning to end.
19. ‘Toy Story 2’
↑ 110 vs. Prior Week
In the 1999 follow-up to the iconic Toy Story, our beloved Woody (voiced by Tom Hanks) is abducted by a greedy toy collector, Al McWhiggin (Wayne Knight). As Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen) and the gang set out on a daring rescue mission, Woody makes an unexpected discovery: he’s a prized piece from a beloved television show, Woody’s Roundup.
Reunited with his horse Bullseye, the spirited Jessie (Joan Cusack), and Stinky Pete the Prospector (Kelsey Grammer), Woody is torn between the allure of a life being worshipped in a glass case and the love of the friends who’ve become his family. The heartwarming Toy Story 2 explores the value of friendship and the bittersweet inevitability of change, offering fun and adventure to audiences of all ages.
20. ‘Trolls World Tour’
↑ 91 vs. Prior Week
Dive headlong into a vibrant adventure with Trolls World Tour, a delightful sequel that showcases the power of music and diversity. Our cheerful hero, Poppy (voiced by Anna Kendrick), and her best friend, Branch (voiced by Justin Timberlake), face their greatest challenge yet – a threat to their world’s harmony. From country lullabies to techno beats, Trolls World Tour is an exhilarating roller-coaster ride.
And there you have it: the top 20 animated movies to stream at home. Stay tuned for updates to come so you can keep up with the best content available right now.
Watch Guide Methodology: Using proprietary viewership data, DIRECTV Insider curates lists of the most popular TV shows and movies being watched by real people, in real time, to help you pick the best trending content to watch across networks. Our rolling data collection also allows readers to see how a trending show’s ranking has changed week over week.
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And for even more insight into the top shows and movies to watch right now, check out these other lists:
- The Top 10 Cartoons for Kids on TV to Watch Now
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- Best Shows on Nickelodeon to Stream
- Top 10 Most Popular Kids Movies Out Now
- 10 Best Disney Channel Shows to Watch
- Nick Jr Shows Kids & Parents Love!
- Most Popular Shows on PBS Kids
- Top 10 Disney XD Shows
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular animated movie franchises?
Despicable Me, Toy Story, Inside Out, Frozen, Moana
What animated movies are becoming Live Action films in 2025?
Lilo & Stitch, How to Train Your Dragon
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