Top 10 Animated Movies of the 1980s
Oh, the 1980s—a time of big hair, big dreams, and even bigger animated classics. From Saturday morning-style romps to cinematic epics, the ‘80s brought us some of the most iconic cartoons to ever grace the silver screen. It was a decade when animators threw out the rules and said, “Let’s make magic. And maybe some marketing gold while we’re at it.” So grab your Walkman, settle into your beanbag chair, and let’s count down the top 10 animated movies of the tubular 1980s. Spoiler alert: this list will totally transform your childhood memories.
10. An American Tail (1986)
Starting off with a heartstring-tugger, An American Tail follows the journey of Fievel Mousekewitz, an adorable immigrant mouse with dreams bigger than his tiny stature. The film is a touching tale about hope, family, and the all-American dream—mouse-style.
But let’s be honest, if you didn’t cry during “Somewhere Out There,” are you even human? Or mouse? Either way, this movie made every kid in the ‘80s want to hug their family tighter—and possibly eat more cheese.
9. The Great Mouse Detective (1986)
Speaking of mice (the ‘80s were clearly rodent-heavy), The Great Mouse Detective was Disney’s answer to the question, “What if Sherlock Holmes was a mouse?” Basil of Baker Street solves crimes with the kind of charisma only a cartoon mouse can pull off.
This movie is a delightful mystery romp with an unforgettable villain, Ratigan, voiced by the legendary Vincent Price. It’s elementary, dear reader: The Great Mouse Detective is a squeaky-clean classic.
8. The Secret of NIMH (1982)
Dark, brooding, and downright mesmerizing, The Secret of NIMH is Don Bluth’s gothic masterpiece. It tells the story of Mrs. Brisby, a widowed mouse trying to save her family from a farmer’s plow. And yes, another mouse movie—but this one’s serious business.
With its eerie atmosphere, gorgeous animation, and a plot that’s way more mature than you’d expect, this film showed kids that animated movies could be more than just cute and cuddly. They could also be nightmare fuel—in the best way possible.
7. The Last Unicorn (1982)
This one’s for all the dreamers out there. The Last Unicorn is a hauntingly beautiful fantasy that asks, “What does it mean to truly be yourself?” It’s whimsical, poetic, and just the right amount of strange.
The animation, while not Disney-polished, has a unique charm, and the soundtrack by America (the band, not the country) is pure ‘80s gold. If you’re looking for a dose of nostalgia with a side of existential dread, this is your ticket.
6. Heavy Metal (1981)
If you thought animated movies were just for kids, Heavy Metal came crashing in to say, “Hold my beer.” This adult-oriented anthology film is packed with sci-fi, fantasy, and a killer rock soundtrack. It’s like stepping into the pages of a pulp comic—wild, weird, and totally unapologetic.
Sure, it’s not for the little ones, but Heavy Metal carved out a niche for animation that wasn’t afraid to get a little gritty and a lot trippy.
5. Transformers: The Movie (1986)
You can’t have an ‘80s list without Optimus Prime rolling in. Transformers: The Movie is everything you’d want in a feature-length toy commercial—explosions, epic battles, and a soundtrack that slaps harder than a Decepticon’s fist.
This movie gave us heartbreak (spoiler alert: RIP Optimus Prime) and triumph, all while cementing itself as a staple of ‘80s pop culture. Plus, it taught us all that we’ve got “The Touch”—whatever that means.
4. Akira (1988)
Time to get serious. Akira wasn’t just a movie; it was a revelation. This groundbreaking anime introduced Western audiences to the sheer power of Japanese animation. Its dystopian cyberpunk aesthetic and mind-bending plot made it an instant classic.
With its stunning visuals and thought-provoking themes, Akira paved the way for anime’s global takeover. If you’ve ever been awestruck by Studio Ghibli or Attack on Titan, you’ve got Akira to thank.
3. Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988)
A groundbreaking mix of live-action and animation, Who Framed Roger Rabbit is the ultimate whodunit for cartoon lovers. Bob Hoskins’s Eddie Valiant and the zany Roger Rabbit made for an unforgettable duo, while Jessica Rabbit raised the bar for animated… er, let’s call it “style.”
This movie didn’t just blur the line between animation and reality; it erased it entirely. Plus, seeing Bugs Bunny and Mickey Mouse share a screen was the crossover event of the century.
2. The Little Mermaid (1989)
Part of your world? More like part of our hearts forever. The Little Mermaid marked the beginning of Disney’s Renaissance, and boy, did it make a splash. Ariel’s quest to trade her fins for feet was filled with catchy songs, stunning animation, and one truly terrifying sea witch.
Whether you’re singing along to “Under the Sea” or rooting for Sebastian to keep Ariel out of trouble, this film is a treasure trove of animated magic. Disney’s comeback never looked—or sounded—so good.
1. My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
Taking the top spot is Studio Ghibli’s enchanting masterpiece, My Neighbor Totoro. Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, this film is the cinematic equivalent of a warm hug. It’s whimsical, heartwarming, and brimming with the kind of wonder that makes you believe in magical forest creatures.
Whether it’s the lovable Totoro, the mischievous Catbus, or the beautifully rendered countryside, every frame of this movie feels like a dream. If you haven’t seen My Neighbor Totoro, do yourself a favor and watch it. Your inner child will thank you.
