The Best Animated Movies for Nature Lovers
Nature inspires awe and creativity, showcasing beauty untouched by humanity. Art draws from nature's wonders, especially as environmental awareness grows. Animated films provide unique perspectives on the natural world through storytelling and artistry. They allow viewers to explore pristine realms while learning about humanity's responsibility to the environment.
The Lion King (1994)
In The Lion King, young Simba (Johnathan Taylor Thomas and Matthew Broderick) embodies youthful curiosity and adventure as the future king of the Pride Lands. His father, Mufasa (James Earl Jones), instills important virtues with an emphasis on responsibility. Meanwhile, Simba's uncle Scar (Jeremy Irons) schemes to usurp the throne.
Disney's brilliant animation of the African savannah is a standout. Real-life photographs taken by animators during their reference trip to Africa greatly influenced the artwork. The vibrant colors and shading immerse viewers in the landscape. Themes of responsibility and the consequences of decadence arise throughout the story, providing moral insight.
Finding Nemo (2003)
In Finding Nemo, after tragedy strikes, Marlin (Albert Brooks) the clownfish is determined to protect his sole surviving son, Nemo (Alexander Gould). Overprotectiveness pushes Nemo to explore dangerous open water, and he is taken by a diver. To save his son, Marlin, with the help of the forgetful fish Dory (Ellen DeGeneres), faces numerous ocean dangers.
This film unveils the ocean's beauty, juxtaposing vibrant reef colors against the vast waters. It invites audiences into a world that seems both alien and familiar. An underlying message about overfishing and the dangers of aquarium keeping is communicated through engaging side characters.
Bambi (1942)
The story of Bambi begins with the joyful announcement of a baby deer’s birth, the forest's new prince (Bobby Stewart, Donnie Dunagan, Hardie Albright). Under the care of his mother (Paula Winslowe), Bambi befriends various creatures, enjoying a happy childhood. However, winter brings the arrival of 'Man,' changing everything.
This film marked Disney's first realistic portrayal of animal characters, creating a magical experience. Animators studied real animals, resulting in breathtaking animations that capture life’s extraordinary moments, from birth to loss. Tyrus Wong's enchanting backgrounds enhance the forest’s beauty while showcasing wonder and danger.
WALL-E (2008)
In a future Earth left desolate by humanity, only one robot, WALL-E (Ben Burtt), remains to clean up the planet. Fascinated by human culture, WALL-E’s life changes when he meets EVE (Elissa Knight) and discovers a living plant. Together, they journey into space.
While WALL-E may lack lush imagery of green landscapes, its ecological message resonates deeply. Striking visuals of a garbage-covered Earth and scenes of humans reliant on technology serve as a caution. The reveals of endurance in nature through the plant underscore essential themes regarding ecological preservation.
Ferngully: The Last Rainforest (1992)
Ferngully: The Last Rainforest features Krista (Samantha Mathis), a fairy captivated by human life in Australia’s rainforests. After meeting Batty (Robin Williams), an escaped lab bat, she encounters a logger named Zak (Jonathan Ward). Unwittingly, they release Hexxus (Tim Curry), an evil spirit eager to destroy Ferngully.
As a focal film of the '90s, Ferngully effectively promotes environmental awareness. The art style brings the rainforest's magic to life through vibrant colors and dynamic angles, immersing viewers in the fairies' small perspective. The narrative effectively communicates the importance of environmental consciousness without excessive preaching.
Earlier, SSP told about all Harry Potter movies: ranked from worst to best.
