Entertainment
Every Pixar Movie Ranked by Rotten Tomatoes
## Every Pixar Movie Ranked by Rotten Tomatoes: The Definitive Ranking For three decades, Pixar Animation Studios has been the gold standard in anima...
1. Every Pixar Movie Ranked by Rotten Tomatoes: The Definitive Ranking
For three decades, Pixar Animation Studios has been the gold standard in animated filmmaking, consistently delivering stories that are as technologically innovative as they are emotionally profound. Since Toy Story first revolutionized the industry in 1995, the studio has crafted a legacy of unforgettable characters, breathtaking worlds, and narratives that resonate with audiences of all ages. From the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of space, and even into the complex inner workings of our own minds, Pixar has proven that animation is a medium for some of the most sophisticated and moving storytelling in cinematic history.
But with a filmography so rich and beloved, sparking debates among fans about which film reigns supreme is inevitable. To bring a measure of objectivity to this passionate discussion, we turn to the Tomatometer. The Rotten Tomatoes score, a trusted aggregate of critical opinion, provides a fascinating lens through which to view the entire Pixar canon. This definitive ranking lists every feature film from the studio, from its less-lauded efforts to its universally acclaimed masterpieces, based on their official Tomatometer scores. Prepare for surprises, confirmations, and a nostalgic journey through the films that have made us laugh, cry, and think in equal measure. This is every Pixar movie ranked, definitively.
28. Cars 2 (2011) - 40%
Plot Summary
In a sharp detour from the first film's focus on racing and small-town charm, Cars 2 thrusts Lightning McQueen and his best friend Mater into a high-stakes world of international espionage. While McQueen competes in the first-ever World Grand Prix, Mater gets mistaken for an American spy and becomes entangled in a mission to uncover a conspiracy that threatens to sabotage the global race.
Critical Reception
With a "Rotten" score of 40%, Cars 2 holds the unfortunate distinction of being the only Pixar film to not be "Certified Fresh." The critical consensus on Rotten Tomatoes states, "Cars 2 is as visually appealing as any other Pixar production, but all that dazzle can't disguise the rusty storytelling under the hood." Critics felt the film abandoned the heart and character-driven narrative that made its predecessor and other Pixar films so beloved, opting instead for a convoluted spy plot that put the comic-relief character, Mater, front and center. While the animation was praised for its technical brilliance, the story was widely seen as a misfire.
Thematic Depth & Lasting Impact
Thematically, Cars 2 is one of Pixar's lightest entries, focusing on action, spectacle, and a simple story of friendship. Its primary legacy is a commercial one, as the Cars franchise has been a merchandising behemoth for Disney. However, its critical reception served as a rare stumble for the studio, proving that even Pixar was not immune to the "sequelitis" that often prioritizes brand extension over compelling storytelling.
27. Cars 3 (2017) - 70%
Plot Summary
Returning to the franchise's racing roots, Cars 3 finds an aging Lightning McQueen struggling to compete with a new generation of high-tech racers. After a devastating crash, McQueen must confront his own legacy and limitations. With the help of an energetic young race technician, Cruz Ramirez, he trains for a final comeback, hoping to prove that he's still a champion.
Critical Reception
Cars 3 was seen as a significant course correction from its predecessor, earning a "Certified Fresh" rating of 70%. The consensus reads: "Cars 3 has an unexpectedly poignant story to go with its dazzling animation, suggesting Pixar's most middle-of-the-road franchise may have a surprising amount of tread left." Critics appreciated the return to a more emotional and character-focused narrative, praising its mature themes of mentorship and gracefully accepting change.
Thematic Depth & Lasting Impact
The film delves into surprisingly deep themes of aging, legacy, and the importance of passing on knowledge to the next generation. Its narrative arc, where the hero transitions into a mentor, was lauded for its poignancy and depth, providing a more fitting conclusion to Lightning McQueen's story. While not considered a top-tier Pixar entry, Cars 3 demonstrated the studio's ability to learn from its mistakes and deliver a thoughtful, resonant story.
26. Elemental (2023) - 74%
Plot Summary
In a bustling metropolis called Element City, residents made of fire, water, land, and air live together. The story follows Ember, a fiery and quick-witted young woman, whose family owns a convenience store in Firetown. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Wade, a go-with-the-flow water element. Their budding friendship challenges Ember's long-held beliefs about the world and her place in it.
Critical Reception
Elemental received a 74% "Certified Fresh" score. The Rotten Tomatoes consensus notes, "Elemental may not satisfy as fully as the greatest Pixar pictures, but it remains a solid story told with dazzling visual flair." The film was highly praised for its stunning, imaginative animation and world-building. However, some critics found its central metaphor for immigration and cultural differences to be somewhat heavy-handed and its plot familiar.
Thematic Depth & Lasting Impact
At its core, Elemental is a story about immigration, cultural identity, and overcoming prejudice. It explores the challenges of second-generation immigrants as they navigate the expectations of their parents while trying to forge their own path. Despite some narrative familiarities, its heartfelt message and breathtaking visuals left a strong impression, proving Pixar's continued commitment to exploring complex themes through a family-friendly lens.
25. Lightyear (2022) - 74%
Plot Summary
Presented as the sci-fi action film that inspired the Buzz Lightyear toy, Lightyear tells the origin story of the legendary Space Ranger. After a mission gone wrong, Buzz and his crew are marooned on a hostile planet. Determined to find a way home, Buzz's test flights through hyperspace result in him traveling decades into the future, where he must team up with a new generation of recruits to face the villainous Emperor Zurg.
Critical Reception
Lightyear landed with a "Certified Fresh" score of 74%. The critics' consensus reads, "Lightyear settles for being a rather conventional origin story instead of reaching for the stars, but this gorgeously animated adventure ably accomplishes its mission of straightforward fun." The film was praised as a visually spectacular and entertaining sci-fi adventure, but many critics felt it lacked the emotional depth and narrative originality expected from Pixar.
Thematic Depth & Lasting Impact
The movie explores themes of failure, perfectionism, and the need to connect with others. Buzz's journey is one of learning to accept his mistakes and rely on a team rather than trying to do everything himself. While it didn't reach the critical heights of the Toy Story films, Lightyear stands as a competently made and enjoyable space adventure that expands the lore of one of cinema's most beloved characters.
24. The Good Dinosaur (2015) - 75%
Plot Summary
In an alternate timeline where the asteroid that caused the extinction of the dinosaurs missed Earth, a young Apatosaurus named Arlo is separated from his family. Lost and afraid, he befriends a feral human boy named Spot. Together, they journey through a harsh and beautiful wilderness as Arlo tries to find his way home.
Critical Reception
The Good Dinosaur holds a 75% "Certified Fresh" rating. The consensus states, "The Good Dinosaur delivers thrillingly beautiful animation in service of a worthy story that, while not quite up to the lofty standards set by Pixar, still adds up to charming, family-friendly entertainment." The film was universally acclaimed for its photorealistic and breathtaking depiction of the natural world. However, its story was considered by many to be simpler and more conventional than typical Pixar fare.
Thematic Depth & Lasting Impact
The film is a classic coming-of-age story that deals with themes of overcoming fear, the power of friendship, and the force of nature. Its narrative is a simple, archetypal tale of a boy and his dog—with the roles reversed. Despite being considered a lesser work in the studio's filmography, its stunning visuals represent a technical milestone for Pixar.
23. Brave (2012) - 78%
Plot Summary
Set in the mystical Scottish Highlands, Brave tells the story of Princess Merida, a skilled archer who defies an age-old custom, causing chaos in her kingdom. When she turns to a witch for help, an ill-fated wish transforms her mother, Queen Elinor, into a bear. Merida must use her bravery and archery skills to undo the beastly curse before it's too late.
Critical Reception
Brave achieved a "Certified Fresh" score of 78%. The critical consensus reads, "Brave offers young audiences and fairy tale fans a rousing, funny fantasy adventure with a welcome female protagonist, even if it measures up to Pixar's finest in a vexing manner." The film was praised for its vibrant animation, strong female lead, and its focus on a mother-daughter relationship. Some critics, however, felt the story was more conventional than Pixar's most innovative works.
Thematic Depth & Lasting Impact
Brave broke new ground for Pixar by featuring the studio's first female protagonist in a story centered on a mother-daughter dynamic. It explores themes of tradition versus individuality, communication, and redefining one's own destiny. The film won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, recognized for its heartfelt story and technical artistry.
22. Monsters University (2013) - 80%
Plot Summary
This prequel to Monsters, Inc. follows a young Mike Wazowski, who has dreamed of becoming a scarer his entire life. When he arrives at Monsters University, his plans are derailed by his rivalry with the naturally talented but lazy James P. "Sulley" Sullivan. The two are forced to work together when their antics get them kicked out of the elite Scare Program.
Critical Reception
Monsters University scored a "Certified Fresh" 80% on the Tomatometer. The consensus notes, "It doesn't scale the heights of Pixar's finest efforts, but Monsters University is still a fun, worthy companion to its classic predecessor." Critics found it to be a charming and funny college comedy, even if it didn't possess the emotional weight of the original. The voice performances and clever world-building were highlights.
Thematic Depth & Lasting Impact
The film offers a surprisingly mature message about dealing with the reality that sometimes, our dreams don't come true in the way we expect. It explores themes of hard work versus natural talent and the idea that failure can be a crucial part of finding one's true path. It stands as a solid and entertaining prequel that fleshes out the backstory of two beloved characters.
21. Onward (2020) - 88%
Plot Summary
Set in a suburban fantasy world where magic has been replaced by modern technology, two teenage elf brothers, Ian and Barley Lightfoot, embark on an extraordinary quest. A spell left by their late father gives them the chance to spend one more day with him, but when it goes awry, they must journey to find more magic before time runs out.
Critical Reception
Onward earned a "Certified Fresh" score of 88%. The Rotten Tomatoes consensus says, "It may suffer in comparison to Pixar's classics, but Onward makes effective use of the studio's formula -- and stands on its own merits as a funny, heartwarming, dazzlingly animated adventure." The film was praised for its inventive premise, humor, and deeply emotional core.
Thematic Depth & Lasting Impact
Beneath its fantasy-adventure exterior, Onward is a powerful story about brotherhood, grief, and finding the magic in the family we have. The film's emotional climax, which focuses on the bond between the two brothers, was widely cited as one of Pixar's most moving moments. Its theatrical run was unfortunately cut short by the COVID-19 pandemic, but it has since found a strong following on streaming.
20. Luca (2021) - 91%
Plot Summary
Set in a beautiful seaside town on the Italian Riviera, this film tells the story of a young sea monster named Luca who can assume human form on land. He shares a summer of adventure with his new best friend, Alberto, as they experience the joys of pasta, gelato, and scooter rides. But their fun is threatened by a deeply held secret: they are sea monsters from another world just below the water's surface.
Critical Reception
Luca charmed its way to a 91% "Certified Fresh" score. The consensus reads, "Slight but suffused with infectious joy, the beguiling Luca proves Pixar can play it safe while still charming audiences of all ages." Critics adored the film's vibrant, painterly animation style and its warm, nostalgic celebration of childhood friendship.
Thematic Depth & Lasting Impact
The film is a beautiful allegory for feeling like an outsider and the importance of acceptance. Its themes of friendship, curiosity, and embracing one's true self resonated strongly with audiences. Luca is a gentle, low-stakes adventure that stands out in the Pixar library for its unique visual style and its sweet, sun-soaked celebration of summer friendship.
19. Inside Out 2 (2024) - 91%
Plot Summary
The sequel returns to the mind of Riley, who is now a teenager. Headquarters is thrown into chaos with the arrival of a new set of emotions: Anxiety, Envy, Ennui, and Embarrassment. As Riley navigates the complexities of high school and new social circles, Joy and the original emotions must figure out how to coexist with these new, more complicated feelings.
Critical Reception
Inside Out 2 was met with critical acclaim, earning a 91% "Certified Fresh" score. The consensus praises the film for "Spicing things up with the wrinkle of teenage angst, Inside Out 2 clears the head and warms the heart by living up to its predecessor's emotional intelligence." Critics found the introduction of the new emotions, particularly Anxiety, to be a brilliant and relatable evolution of the original's concept.
Thematic Depth & Lasting Impact
The film masterfully explores the turbulent emotional landscape of adolescence. It provides a nuanced and empathetic look at mental health, particularly the rise of anxiety in teenagers, in a way that is accessible and meaningful. It built upon the groundbreaking foundation of the first film to tell a new story that felt both necessary and deeply resonant.
18. A Bug's Life (1998) - 92%
Plot Summary
This film tells the story of Flik, an inventive but accident-prone ant who is desperate to make a difference for his colony. When he accidentally destroys their food offering to the oppressive grasshoppers, he ventures out to recruit "warrior bugs" for help. He returns with a bumbling troupe of circus insects, whom he mistakes for mighty heroes.
Critical Reception
Pixar's second feature film scored a "Certified Fresh" 92%. The critics' consensus calls it "A rousing adventure that blends animated thrills with witty dialogue and memorable characters - and another smashing early success for Pixar." The film was celebrated for its epic scale, complex animation, and engaging story, which proved that the success of Toy Story was no fluke.
Thematic Depth & Lasting Impact
Inspired by Aesop's fable "The Ant and the Grasshopper" and Akira Kurosawa's Seven Samurai, A Bug's Life is a story of courage, community, and standing up to oppression. It showcased Pixar's ability to handle large-scale action and a sprawling cast of characters, further solidifying the studio's reputation as a new powerhouse in animation.
17. Incredibles 2 (2018) - 93%
Plot Summary
Picking up immediately where the first film left off, Incredibles 2 sees the Parr family still struggling with the public perception of superheroes. A new opportunity arises when Elastigirl is recruited to lead a campaign to bring Supers back, while Mr. Incredible stays home to navigate the heroics of "normal" life with the children, including baby Jack-Jack, whose powers are beginning to emerge.
Critical Reception
The long-awaited sequel earned a 93% "Certified Fresh" score. The consensus states, "Incredibles 2 reunites Pixar's family crimefighting team for a long-awaited follow-up that may not quite live up to the original, but comes close enough to earn its name." The film was lauded for its stylish animation, thrilling action sequences, and sharp humor.
Thematic Depth & Lasting Impact
The film cleverly flips the gender dynamics of the first movie, exploring themes of family roles, public perception, and the dangers of media manipulation. It was a massive box office success, proving the enduring appeal of the super-powered family and director Brad Bird's unique brand of action-comedy.
16. Finding Dory (2016) - 94%
Plot Summary
This sequel focuses on the beloved, memory-challenged blue tang fish, Dory. Suddenly remembering her long-lost parents, Dory sets off on a cross-ocean journey to find them, with Marlin and Nemo by her side. Her quest leads her to the Marine Life Institute, a California rehabilitation center and aquarium, where she meets a new cast of characters who help her uncover the secrets of her past.
Critical Reception
Finding Dory swam to a 94% "Certified Fresh" score. The critics' consensus reads, "Funny, poignant, and thought-provoking, Finding Dory delivers a beautifully animated adventure that adds another winning chapter to its predecessor's story." The film was praised for its humor, emotional depth, and for putting a character with a disability at the forefront of the narrative.
Thematic Depth & Lasting Impact
The film is a touching exploration of family, memory, and the idea that one's perceived weaknesses can also be their greatest strengths. It's a powerful story about identity and the meaning of home, proving to be a worthy and emotionally satisfying sequel to one of Pixar's most beloved films.
15. WALL-E (2008) - 95%
Plot Summary
In the distant future, Earth has been abandoned and is covered in trash. A lone, curious robot named WALL-E (Waste Allocation Load Lifter: Earth-Class) has been left behind to clean up the mess. His lonely existence is upended when he meets EVE, a sleek probe robot sent to search for signs of life. Smitten, WALL-E follows her across the galaxy on an adventure that will determine the fate of humanity.
Critical Reception
WALL-E is one of Pixar's most acclaimed films, with a 95% "Certified Fresh" rating. The consensus calls it "A charming, imaginative, and poignant tale of a lonely robot's journey through the stars, WALL-E is a stunning piece of animation that tugs at the heartstrings and leaves audiences thinking." Its nearly silent first act is often cited as a masterpiece of visual storytelling.
Thematic Depth & Lasting Impact
WALL-E is a profound and ambitious film, tackling themes of consumerism, environmental decay, and the importance of human connection. It's both a charming love story and a cautionary tale. The film won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and is widely regarded as not just one of the best animated films, but one of the greatest films of the 21st century.
14. Turning Red (2022) - 95%
Plot Summary
Set in Toronto in 2002, the film follows Meilin "Mei" Lee, a confident, dorky 13-year-old torn between being her mother's dutiful daughter and the chaos of adolescence. As if that weren't enough, whenever she gets too excited or stressed, she "poofs" into a giant red panda.
Critical Reception
Turning Red debuted to a "Certified Fresh" score of 95%. The consensus states, "Heartwarming, humorous, and beautifully animated, Turning Red is a delightful coming-of-age story that embraces the messiness of adolescence." The film was praised for its unique, anime-inspired visual style, its humor, and its honest and unapologetic look at puberty.
Thematic Depth & Lasting Impact
The film is a vibrant and hilarious metaphor for the emotional and physical changes of puberty. It explores themes of generational trauma, cultural expectations, and the importance of embracing all parts of oneself. Turning Red was celebrated for its specific cultural setting and its bold, funny, and deeply relatable take on the awkwardness of being a teenager.
13. Soul (2020) - 95%
Plot Summary
Joe Gardner, a middle-school band teacher, has long dreamed of playing jazz professionally. After landing the gig of a lifetime, a sudden accident causes his soul to be separated from his body and transported to "The Great Before," a fantastical place where new souls get their personalities before they go to Earth. There, he teams up with a precocious soul named 22, who has no interest in human life.
Critical Reception
Soul was met with widespread acclaim, earning a 95% "Certified Fresh" rating. The critics' consensus calls it "A film as beautiful to contemplate as it is to behold, Soul proves Pixar's power to deliver outstanding all-ages entertainment remains undimmed." The film was praised for its stunning animation, inventive world-building, and profound philosophical themes.
Thematic Depth & Lasting Impact
Soul is one of Pixar's most existential and mature films, exploring deep questions about purpose, passion, and what it means to truly live. It's a visually dazzling and emotionally complex journey that won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, further cementing Pixar's reputation for pushing the boundaries of family entertainment.
12. Monsters, Inc. (2001) - 96%
Plot Summary
In the city of Monstropolis, the primary power source is the screams of human children. At Monsters, Incorporated, elite scarers like James P. "Sulley" Sullivan and his partner Mike Wazowski venture into the human world to collect this valuable resource. Their lives are turned upside down when a little girl named Boo accidentally follows Sulley back into their world, forcing them to confront everything they believe about humans.
Critical Reception
Monsters, Inc. holds a 96% "Certified Fresh" score on Rotten Tomatoes. The consensus reads, "Clever, funny, and delightful to look at, Monsters, Inc. delivers another resounding example of how Pixar elevated the bar for modern all-ages animation." The film was celebrated for its incredibly creative premise, hilarious script, and the heartwarming relationship that develops between Sulley and Boo.
Thematic Depth & Lasting Impact
The film is a brilliant exploration of overcoming prejudice and fear of the unknown. It also features a clever corporate satire, with a twist that suggests laughter is more powerful than fear. The film's technical achievements, particularly in animating Sulley's fur, were groundbreaking at the time. It remains one of Pixar's most beloved and imaginative creations.
11. Ratatouille (2007) - 96%
Plot Summary
Remy, a rat with a highly developed sense of taste and smell, dreams of becoming a chef, a profession that is famously rodent-phobic. He finds himself in Paris, and through a series of fortunate events, forms an unlikely partnership with Linguini, a bumbling garbage boy at a famous restaurant. Together, they create culinary masterpieces, challenging the prejudices of the culinary world.
Critical Reception
Ratatouille is critically adored, with a 96% "Certified Fresh" rating. The consensus on Rotten Tomatoes calls it "A delightful, visually stunning, and heartwarming tale about a rat who dares to dream big. It's a film that reminds us that anyone can cook, and that greatness can come from the most unlikely of places." Critics praised its sophisticated screenplay, gorgeous animation, and its passionate celebration of art and creativity.
Thematic Depth & Lasting Impact
The film is a powerful ode to the artist and the critic, with a central message that "not everyone can become a great artist, but a great artist can come from anywhere." It explores themes of passion, prejudice, and the pursuit of excellence. Ratatouille won the Oscar for Best Animated Feature and is often cited as one of Pixar's most mature and beautifully crafted films.
10. Toy Story 4 (2019) - 97%
Plot Summary
Woody and the gang have settled into their new life with Bonnie. But when Bonnie creates a new favorite toy, a spork named Forky who is convinced he's trash, Woody takes it upon himself to show Forky the joys of being a toy. A road trip adventure leads Woody to an unexpected reunion with his long-lost friend Bo Peep, forcing him to confront what he truly wants from his existence.
Critical Reception
Many were skeptical about the need for a fourth film, but Toy Story 4 earned a remarkable 97% "Certified Fresh" score. The consensus states, "Heartwarming, funny, and beautifully animated, Toy Story 4 manages the unlikely feat of extending -- and perhaps concluding -- a practically perfect animated saga." The film was praised for its humor, emotional intelligence, and for providing a surprisingly profound and fitting end to Woody's personal journey.
Thematic Depth & Lasting Impact
The film delves into existential themes of purpose and what it means to move on. Woody's arc, from a loyal toy dedicated to a single child to a "lost toy" finding a new purpose in the wider world, is a poignant exploration of change and self-discovery. It won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, capping off the franchise with yet another critical and commercial triumph.
9. The Incredibles (2004) - 97%
Plot Summary
In a world where superheroes have been forced into hiding by the government, Bob Parr, formerly Mr. Incredible, lives a mundane suburban life with his wife Helen (Elastigirl) and their three children. Itching to get back into action, Bob gets his chance when a mysterious assignment on a remote island calls him out of retirement, forcing the entire family to suit up to save the world.
Critical Reception
The Incredibles is one of the most acclaimed superhero films ever made, holding a 97% "Certified Fresh" rating. The critics' consensus reads, "Bringing loads of wit and tons of fun to the animated superhero genre, The Incredibles easily lives up to its name." The film was hailed for its stylish, retro-futuristic design, its sharp script, and its complex exploration of family dynamics and mid-life crisis within a superhero framework.
Thematic Depth & Lasting Impact
Director Brad Bird crafted a film that is both a thrilling action movie and a poignant story about family, identity, and what it means to be exceptional. Its themes of celebrating individual talents while working together as a family resonated deeply with audiences. The film won the Oscar for Best Animated Feature and remains a high-water mark for both Pixar and the superhero genre.
8. Coco (2017) - 97%
Plot Summary
Despite his family's baffling generations-old ban on music, young Miguel dreams of becoming an accomplished musician like his idol, Ernesto de la Cruz. Desperate to prove his talent, Miguel finds himself magically transported to the stunning and colorful Land of the Dead. There, he teams up with a charming trickster named Héctor on an extraordinary journey to unlock the real story behind his family's history.
Critical Reception
Coco was a cultural and critical phenomenon, earning a 97% "Certified Fresh" score. The consensus raves, "Coco's rich visual pleasures are matched by a thoughtful narrative that takes a family-friendly—and deeply affecting—approach to questions of culture, family, life, and death." The film was lauded for its stunning animation, its beautiful music, and its respectful and heartfelt celebration of Mexican culture and the Día de Muertos tradition.
Thematic Depth & Lasting Impact
Coco is a profound meditation on family, memory, and legacy. It explores the idea that we live on through the stories and memories shared by our loved ones. The film's emotional climax is one of the most powerful in the entire Pixar canon. It won two Academy Awards, for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song for "Remember Me," and is celebrated as a modern classic.
7. Up (2009) - 98%
Plot Summary
78-year-old Carl Fredricksen is a retired balloon salesman and recent widower who feels life has passed him by. To fulfill a lifelong promise to his late wife, Ellie, he ties thousands of balloons to his house and flies away to the wilds of South America. His solitary journey is unexpectedly complicated when he discovers an overly optimistic 8-year-old Wilderness Explorer named Russell has stowed away on his porch.
Critical Reception
Up soared to a 98% "Certified Fresh" rating. The critics' consensus calls it "An exciting, funny, and poignant adventure, Up offers an impeccably crafted story told with wit and arranged with depth, as well as yet another visual splendid from Pixar." The film is famous for its opening montage, a wordless sequence that beautifully and heartbreakingly depicts Carl and Ellie's life together, which is widely considered one of the greatest sequences in film history.
Thematic Depth & Lasting Impact
The film is a deeply moving story about grief, adventure, and the discovery that it's never too late to live. It masterfully balances laugh-out-loud comedy with profound emotional depth. Up was the second animated film in history to be nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture, a testament to its universal acclaim and powerful storytelling.
6. Toy Story 3 (2010) - 98%
Plot Summary
With Andy preparing to leave for college, Woody, Buzz, and the rest of the toys are mistakenly donated to a daycare center. What initially seems like a paradise for unwanted toys quickly reveals itself to be a chaotic prison ruled by a tyrannical teddy bear named Lotso. The toys must band together to orchestrate a daring escape and return to Andy before he leaves.
Critical Reception
Toy Story 3 holds a 98% "Certified Fresh" score, with many critics calling it a perfect conclusion to the trilogy. The Rotten Tomatoes consensus reads, "Deftly blending comedy, adventure, and honest emotion, Toy Story 3 is a rare second sequel that really works." The film was praised for its thrilling action, humor, and its incredibly moving and poignant exploration of growing up and letting go.
Thematic Depth & Lasting Impact
This film tackles mature themes of mortality, obsolescence, and the bittersweet pain of saying goodbye. The final act, particularly the incinerator scene and Andy's farewell to his toys, left audiences emotionally devastated and deeply satisfied. The film won the Oscar for Best Animated Feature and was also nominated for Best Picture, cementing its status as a masterpiece.
5. Inside Out (2015) - 98%
Plot Summary
Growing up can be a bumpy road, and it's no exception for Riley, who is uprooted from her Midwest life when her father starts a new job in San Francisco. Her emotions—Joy, Fear, Anger, Disgust, and Sadness—live in Headquarters, the control center inside Riley's mind, where they help advise her through everyday life. As Riley struggles to adjust, turmoil in Headquarters ensues, and Joy and Sadness are accidentally swept into the far reaches of her mind.
Critical Reception
Inside Out is widely regarded as one of Pixar's most original and brilliant films, earning a 98% "Certified Fresh" rating. The consensus hails it as "Inventive, gorgeously animated, and powerfully moving, Inside Out is another outstanding addition to the Pixar library of modern animated classics." The film was celebrated for its breathtaking creativity and its sophisticated, nuanced portrayal of human emotions.
Thematic Depth & Lasting Impact
The film is a profound and accessible exploration of mental health and the importance of all our emotions, particularly sadness. It brilliantly visualizes the inner workings of the mind and teaches a powerful lesson about how sadness is essential for connection and healing. It won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and is lauded for its intelligence, empathy, and groundbreaking concept.
4. Finding Nemo (2003) - 99%
Plot Summary
After his son Nemo is captured by a diver in the Great Barrier Reef and taken to a dentist's office aquarium in Sydney, a timid clownfish named Marlin must overcome his fears and travel the vast ocean to find him. Along the way, he befriends Dory, a blue tang fish with short-term memory loss, and together they face sharks, jellyfish, and a host of other oceanic dangers.
Critical Reception
An instant classic, Finding Nemo boasts a near-perfect 99% "Certified Fresh" score. The critics' consensus reads, "Breathtakingly lovely and grounded by the stellar efforts of a well-chosen cast, Finding Nemo adds another beautifully crafted gem to Pixar's crown." The film was praised for its stunning underwater animation, its perfect balance of humor and heart, and its unforgettable characters.
Thematic Depth & Lasting Impact
At its heart, Finding Nemo is a story about the powerful bond between a parent and child. It explores themes of fear, letting go, and the courage it takes to face the unknown. The film was a massive cultural and commercial success, winning the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and becoming one of the highest-grossing animated films of all time.
3. Toy Story (1995) - 100%
Plot Summary
In a world where toys come to life when humans aren't around, a pull-string cowboy doll named Woody is his owner Andy's favorite toy. His position is threatened by the arrival of Buzz Lightyear, a flashy new space ranger action figure who believes he is a real astronaut. Jealousy leads to them being lost in the outside world, and they must form a reluctant alliance to find their way back home.
Critical Reception
The one that started it all, Toy Story, holds a perfect 100% "Certified Fresh" score. The consensus states, "Entertaining as it is innovative, Toy Story reinvigorated animation while heralding the arrival of Pixar as a family-friendly force to be reckoned with." The film was a watershed moment in filmmaking, being the first-ever feature-length computer-animated film. Its wit, heart, and technical brilliance changed the industry forever.
Thematic Depth & Lasting Impact
Toy Story is a timeless story about friendship, identity, and overcoming jealousy. Its groundbreaking animation opened up a new frontier for the medium, and its sophisticated storytelling appealed to adults as much as children. The film received a Special Achievement Academy Award and established the creative and narrative formula that would define Pixar for decades to come.
2. Toy Story 2 (1999) - 100%
Plot Summary
When Woody is stolen by a greedy toy collector, Buzz Lightyear and the rest of the gang embark on a daring rescue mission. Woody discovers he is a valuable collectible from a 1950s TV show and meets the other members of his "Roundup Gang." He is faced with a difficult choice: return to Andy, who will one day outgrow him, or go to a museum in Japan and live forever behind glass.
Critical Reception
Often cited as a sequel that surpasses the original, Toy Story 2 also boasts a perfect 100% "Certified Fresh" score. The critics' consensus calls it "The rare sequel that arguably improves on its predecessor, Toy Story 2 uses inventive storytelling, gorgeous animation, and a stellar cast to deliver another rich movie experience for all ages." The introduction of Jessie and her heartbreaking backstory added a new layer of emotional depth to the franchise.
Thematic Depth & Lasting Impact
The film delves into deeper, more melancholic themes than the first, exploring ideas of abandonment, purpose, and the inevitability of change. It enriches the world and the characters, transforming a great movie into an epic saga. Toy Story 2 proved that sequels could not only match but exceed the quality of the original, setting a new standard for animated storytelling.
29. Conclusion
From the perfect scores of the Toy Story saga to the poignant explorations of life, death, and memory in films like Up and Coco, the Rotten Tomatoes rankings confirm what audiences have known for years: Pixar's creative genius is remarkably consistent. While critics may favor certain films over others, the overwhelming number of "Certified Fresh" scores is a testament to the studio's unwavering commitment to quality. This definitive list of Pixar movies ranked not only highlights the studio's incredible achievements but also serves as a reminder of the powerful and timeless stories that have become a cherished part of our cinematic landscape. No matter the ranking, each film represents a triumph of imagination and heart.