Best Cartoon Movies Of 2016: A Nostalgic Look Back

Hey there, cartoon lovers! Let's take a whimsical journey back to 2016, a year that gifted us with some truly unforgettable animated films. Whether you're a die-hard animation fan or just looking for a cozy movie night selection, you're in for a treat. In this article, we're diving deep into the best cartoon movies of 2016, exploring why they captured our hearts and remain classics today. Get ready to reminisce and maybe even discover a few gems you might have missed!

A Deep Dive into 2016's Animated Wonders

The year 2016 was a remarkable one for animated films, showcasing a diverse range of stories, animation styles, and emotional depths. From heartwarming tales of friendship to action-packed adventures, there was something for everyone. What made these films stand out was their ability to resonate with audiences of all ages, blending humor, poignant moments, and stunning visuals into cohesive and captivating narratives. So, grab your popcorn, and let's explore some of the most memorable animated movies that 2016 had to offer.

Zootopia: A World of Diversity and Inclusion

Zootopia isn't just a visually stunning film; it's a powerful allegory about prejudice, diversity, and the importance of challenging societal norms. Set in a vibrant metropolis populated by anthropomorphic animals, the film follows Judy Hopps, an ambitious bunny who dreams of becoming a police officer in Zootopia. Despite facing skepticism and prejudice from her colleagues, Judy teams up with Nick Wilde, a sly fox, to solve a mysterious case that threatens the city's delicate balance. The film's clever writing, coupled with its stunning animation, earned it critical acclaim and a place in the hearts of audiences worldwide.

The themes explored in Zootopia are incredibly relevant even today. The film tackles issues of systemic bias and discrimination in a way that is both accessible and thought-provoking for children and adults alike. The characters are richly developed, each with their own motivations and flaws, making them relatable and endearing. Judy's unwavering determination to prove herself, despite the obstacles she faces, is an inspiring message for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider. And Nick's journey from a cynical con artist to a loyal friend is a testament to the power of empathy and understanding. Zootopia's success lies in its ability to entertain while also sparking important conversations about the world we live in. The attention to detail in the animation is also noteworthy. The animators meticulously crafted the various districts of Zootopia, each with its own unique architecture, climate, and culture, creating a believable and immersive world. From the bustling streets of Sahara Square to the icy landscapes of Tundratown, every corner of Zootopia feels alive and vibrant. The film's message of inclusivity and acceptance is one that resonates deeply, making Zootopia a timeless classic that continues to be celebrated for its artistry and its social commentary.

Moana: A Voyage of Self-Discovery

Moana is a visually breathtaking and culturally rich animated film that tells the story of a young Polynesian girl who embarks on a daring mission to save her people. Set in the ancient islands of Oceania, the film follows Moana as she sets sail across the ocean to return the heart of Te Fiti, a powerful goddess, and restore balance to her island. Along the way, she teams up with Maui, a demigod with a penchant for mischief, and together they face treacherous seas, mythical creatures, and their own inner demons.

The film's stunning animation brings the vibrant world of Oceania to life, with lush landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and intricate cultural details. The music, composed by Lin-Manuel Miranda, is equally captivating, blending traditional Polynesian sounds with contemporary musical styles to create a soundtrack that is both authentic and infectious. But what truly sets Moana apart is its strong and independent female protagonist. Moana is not a princess waiting to be rescued; she is a courageous and determined young woman who takes charge of her own destiny. She is fiercely loyal to her family and her people, and she is willing to risk everything to protect them. Her journey is one of self-discovery, as she learns to embrace her heritage, trust her instincts, and find her own inner strength. Moana's message of empowerment and resilience is particularly inspiring for young girls, showing them that they can be the heroes of their own stories. The film also celebrates Polynesian culture in a respectful and authentic way, consulting with cultural experts to ensure that the film accurately portrays the traditions, beliefs, and values of the Polynesian people. Moana is a celebration of culture, courage, and the power of believing in oneself, making it a beloved animated film that continues to inspire audiences of all ages.

Kubo and the Two Strings: A Masterpiece of Stop-Motion Animation

Kubo and the Two Strings is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant stop-motion animated film that tells the story of a young boy named Kubo who embarks on a perilous journey to find magical armor and defeat his evil relatives. Set in ancient Japan, the film follows Kubo as he uses his shamisen, a Japanese stringed instrument, to bring origami figures to life and battle mythical creatures. Along the way, he is joined by Monkey, a fierce protector, and Beetle, a samurai warrior with a mysterious past.

The film's stop-motion animation is a true work of art, with intricate details, fluid movements, and breathtaking visual effects. The animators spent years meticulously crafting each frame of the film, creating a world that is both fantastical and believable. The story is equally compelling, blending elements of Japanese folklore, mythology, and samurai tales to create a rich and immersive narrative. Kubo's journey is one of self-discovery and acceptance, as he learns to embrace his heritage, confront his fears, and find his own inner strength. The film also explores themes of family, loss, and the power of storytelling, resonating with audiences on a deep emotional level. The characters are richly developed, each with their own motivations and flaws, making them relatable and endearing. Kubo's determination to protect his family, Monkey's unwavering loyalty, and Beetle's struggle with his past all contribute to the film's emotional depth. Kubo and the Two Strings is a masterpiece of stop-motion animation that showcases the power of storytelling and the importance of embracing one's heritage, making it a timeless classic that continues to be celebrated for its artistry and its emotional impact.

Finding Dory: An Unforgettable Sequel

Finding Dory revisits the underwater world we fell in love with in Finding Nemo, this time focusing on the forgetful blue tang, Dory, as she sets out on a journey to find her long-lost parents. The film beautifully expands on Dory's character, exploring her backstory and her struggles with memory loss. Joined by Nemo and Marlin, Dory's adventure leads them to the Marine Life Institute, where she encounters a host of new and quirky characters who help her along the way.

The animation in Finding Dory is visually stunning, bringing the vibrant coral reefs and the vastness of the ocean to life. The story is heartwarming and humorous, exploring themes of family, friendship, and self-acceptance. Dory's relentless optimism and her unwavering belief in herself are inspiring, even in the face of her challenges. The film also introduces important messages about conservation and the importance of protecting our oceans. The new characters, such as Hank the octopus and Destiny the whale shark, add a fresh dynamic to the story, each with their own unique personalities and quirks. Finding Dory is a worthy sequel that captures the heart and humor of the original film while also exploring new and important themes. The film's success lies in its ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level, reminding us of the importance of family, friendship, and believing in ourselves, even when we face challenges. The underwater world is brought to life with stunning detail, from the shimmering scales of the fish to the swaying of the kelp forests. Finding Dory is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that celebrates the power of friendship and the importance of protecting our oceans.

Other Notable Mentions

While the above films garnered significant attention, 2016 also boasted a range of other animated gems worth exploring:

• The Secret Life of Pets: A hilarious look at what our furry friends get up to when we're not home.
• Sing: An upbeat and heartwarming tale about a group of animals who come together to put on a singing competition.
• Trolls: A vibrant and colorful film with catchy music and a positive message about happiness.

Why These Films Still Resonate Today

The cartoon movies of 2016 left an indelible mark on the animation landscape for several reasons. Their innovative storytelling, coupled with breathtaking visuals and emotionally resonant themes, captivated audiences of all ages. These films weren't just entertaining; they sparked conversations, challenged societal norms, and offered profound insights into the human condition. Whether it was Zootopia's exploration of prejudice or Moana's celebration of cultural heritage, these films tackled complex issues with sensitivity and grace.

Furthermore, the characters in these films were relatable and endearing, each with their own unique flaws and strengths. We rooted for Judy Hopps as she fought for her place in a world that doubted her, and we cheered for Moana as she embarked on her quest to save her people. These characters inspired us to believe in ourselves, to embrace our differences, and to never give up on our dreams. The animation styles were also diverse and innovative, ranging from the stunning stop-motion of Kubo and the Two Strings to the vibrant CGI of Zootopia and Moana. Each film pushed the boundaries of what was possible in animation, creating visually stunning worlds that captivated audiences and transported them to new and exciting places. The music in these films was also unforgettable, with catchy tunes and emotionally powerful scores that enhanced the storytelling and added to the overall experience. From Lin-Manuel Miranda's Polynesian-inspired songs in Moana to the upbeat pop hits in Sing and Trolls, the music in these films was an integral part of their success.

Conclusion: A Year to Remember in Animation

So, there you have it – a trip down memory lane to revisit the best cartoon movies of 2016. These films not only entertained us but also left us with valuable lessons and unforgettable characters. If you haven't revisited these animated treasures lately, now might be the perfect time to do so. You might just rediscover the magic that made them so special in the first place. Happy watching, folks!