The Beauty of Animation: How animation films cater to the young and old

There’s a particular kind of animated film that occupies a unique space - one that appears, on the surface, to be made for children, yet carries a profound emotional weight that resonates deeply with adults. Films like Soul, Inside Out, and Wreck-It Ralph tap into this balance with remarkable precision: visually vibrant and accessible, yet thematically rich and introspective.

It’s a common misconception that animated films are exclusively for young audiences. In truth, many of them aren’t really about childhood at all. More often, they're meditations on adulthood - on memory, regret, identity, and change - told in a format that’s colorful enough to hold a child’s attention, but layered enough to quietly stir something in the grown-ups watching. Some even function as gentle warnings, or emotional primers, for the challenges that come with age.

For the sake of this post, I’m using “animation film” in the more casual, mainstream sense - think Toy Story, Finding Nemo, The Lion King - rather than diving into the full scope of animation as a medium. Because animation isn't a genre - it's a storytelling vehicle, and one of the most versatile at that. Whether it’s hand-drawn, CGI, or stop-motion, animation can explore a full range of genres and themes: comedy, drama, tragedy, and even the existential. It also allows for visual expression in ways live-action often can’t - stretching emotion through facial exaggeration, using color to amplify narrative tone, and bending reality to serve metaphors - all contributing to an immersive cinematic experience.

There’s something especially powerful about these films that manage to feel both whimsical and weighty. They leave you with a sense of wonder, sure, but also with a soft ache, a quiet reflection, a memory gently nudged to the surface.

So, what are the animation films that have stayed with you - not just as great stories, but as moments that truly got you in your feelings?

🎹 Soul (Disney+)

Joe Gardner is a passionate jazz musician stuck teaching middle school band while dreaming of his big break. Just when it seems like things might go his way, a twist of fate sends him on a metaphysical journey through realms beyond life. Along the way, he meets an unlikely companion and begins to rethink what truly makes life worth living.

🕹️ Wreck-It Ralph (Disney+)

Tired of always being the bad guy in his arcade game, Ralph sets out on a journey through various game worlds to earn a medal and prove he can be a hero. Along the way, he forms an unlikely friendship and learns that being a good guy isn’t about how others label you - it’s about your actions and choices.

🎈 Up (Disney+)

Carl Fredricksen, a grumpy yet lovable widower, decides to fulfill a promise he made long ago by tying thousands of balloons to his house and flying to South America. But his peaceful escape turns chaotic when he discovers a young, enthusiastic stowaway onboard. Together, they navigate the wild unknown and discover that adventure is often found in the most unexpected relationships.

🧠 Inside Out (Disney+)

Riley is a happy, hockey-loving 11-year-old girl whose life is turned upside down when her family moves to a new city. Inside her mind, her five core emotions - Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust - try to help her navigate the transition. But when Joy and Sadness get swept away into the far reaches of Riley's mind, they must journey back to restore emotional balance - showing how all feelings have value.

These films are also available on Sky Store and Apple TV, but you’d have to rent or buy them. They appear on Disney+ as part of their subscription package.

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For personalised film recommendations, download Film Finder in the App Store.