Animated releases over the past decade have moved increasingly away from the idea that the format exists solely for children. Studios are presenting stories that are based on heavy subjects. Social behavior, identity, emotional health and even existential drift. The scenes may look familiar. But the themes go far beyond the surface. Here are five animated movies that tackle complex subjects and also connect with adults.
Zootopia (2016)
Disney’s Zootopia arrived as a bright buddy-cop adventure. But the film also offers pointed commentary on prejudice, group behavior and fear-based narratives. With the release of Zootopia 2 on November 21, there is growing curiosity about what new social themes the sequel will tackle.
Inside Out (2015)
Pixar’s Inside Out examined the emotional changes directly. The film used memory, depression-coded sadness, and identity change as main elements rather than background devices. Many audiences, especially adults, connected with its perspective on how internal reactions shape behavior during major life changes.
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Elio (2025)
Pixar’s Elio continues that pattern. The story follows a boy who is mistaken for a representative of Earth and is pulled into space. The film covers themes like belonging, anxiety and the pressure of expectations. Its focus on uncertainty and self-worth hits home for many adults.
Soul (2020)
Soul ventured even further into adult-leaning territory. The film questions purpose, jealousy and ambition, presenting them through a jazz musician whose life is suddenly disrupted. The film was a critique of hustle culture, reminding audiences that life is made up of simple, unpretentious moments.
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Turning Red (2022)
Pixar’s Turning Red grew up amid generational pressures and many cultural influences. The story is told through a teenager grappling with sudden emotional changes, identity, parental expectations and inherited burdens. The film attracted strong adult engagement, especially among audiences familiar with cultural conflict.
Animation now serves as a broader storytelling space rather than a category for young audiences. The titles above show how studios have reinvented the medium. Not by abandoning the visual style, but by using it to tackle themes that resonate across all age groups.
questions to ask
Are animated movies still made just for kids?
No. Many recent animated films address themes aimed at adults, including identity, trauma, and social issues.
Which animated movies explore mature themes?
Titles like Zootopia, Inside Out, Soul, Turning Red, and the upcoming Elio examine adult-focused themes.
Why are more adults connecting with animated films today?
Studios are increasingly using animation to present complex emotional and social themes through accessible storytelling.
Is animation considered a genre or medium?
Animation is a medium, not a genre, that allows filmmakers to tell stories across all categories and age groups.