These are IGN's nominees for the best animated film of 2019.
Toy Story 4
The Toy Story series has always been just as satisfying for adults as for kids, but this might be the first film that actually feels more relatable to the grown-ups, offering a surprisingly nuanced tale of coping with change and moving on after loss. While Toy Story 3 felt like the perfect ending for these characters, Toy Story 4 offers an unexpected epilogue that’s just as meaningful as the films that came before it. It may not have been necessary, but somehow, it still feels right.
The Lion King
Disney delivers their most successful remake yet. A strong cast, outstanding visuals, and the classic animal-centric take on Hamlet make this infinitely more watchable than some of the studio's previous retellings. The only issue here is that The Lion King is a beat-for-beat adaptation that will make even the coldest hearts warm with nostalgia but could potentially disappoint those looking for a new take on the iconic story.
Missing Link
Missing Link is another example of Laika Studios raising its bar again. Hugh Jackman’s Frost and Zach Galifianakis’ Mr. Link are a formidable pairing with Zoe Saldana’s Fortnight adding something extra that really makes this journey a joy to go on. Anchored by first-rate storytelling, Missing Link is another jewel in the crown for Laika that leaves you satisfied and still ready for more.
How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World
How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World is a fantastic, visually stunning and poignant way to end this beloved trilogy. While the young characters remain joyously funny, this finale also adds mature notes to their story of friendship. The franchise has, like its audience, grown up, and to that end this film grapples with more complex themes than before, making for a truly satisfying yet bittersweet conclusion.
Klaus
Sergio Pablos' Klaus is a beautifully animated mix of old and new -- offing up a unique and quirky take on Santa's humble beginnings. It's a fun, fresh story about friendship and the power of kindness that coats snowbound cliches with a shiny sheen.
Frozen 2
Frozen 2 is nothing if not ambitious. Kids who loved the first movie will probably adore this darker and more mature take on the characters they loved. The beautiful world of Arendelle and beyond is a total joy to explore here, but a confusing subplot that can't quite commit to its radical intentions takes away from the power and the message of the film slightly.
The LEGO Movie 2: The Second Part
The LEGO Movie 2 isn’t quite as funny or as brilliantly executed as the original, but it’s an ambitious, likable sequel. Kids will enjoy it and adults will appreciate that the filmmakers took it seriously, and tried to say something meaningful.
The Addams Family
Frighteningly funny and fresh, this hilarious animated treat will introduce a whole new generation to the loving and strange family whilst also pleasing those who grew up with the iconic '90s movies.
I Lost My Body
In this unique hand-drawn animated film, a dismembered hand goes on a quest through Paris looking for its owner while we meet said owner via flashbacks. His story -- he's a lonely, confused young man -- runs parallel to that of the hand's, and while this may all sound like some kind of gag, I Lost My Body is actually a heartfelt and philosophical movie-going experience.