5 Best Movies With Talking Animals
Talking animal movies hold a unique allure for audiences. This charm likely stems from the delightful interactions between human characters and their animal companions. The blending of these two worlds, along with the magic of animated creatures speaking in live-action settings, captivates both children and parents alike, whether in theaters or at home.
This list highlights that the key to a great modern talking animal movie often lies in animation. A witty yet touching script, combined with talented voice actors and CGI artistry, creates the perfect recipe for success. Explore these five beloved talking animal films, handpicked by movie fans.
5. One Hundred and One Dalmatians (1961)
This Disney classic focuses on talking dogs and is based on Dodie Smith's 1956 novel. The plot follows a litter of Dalmatian puppies kidnapped by the infamous Cruella De Vil, who desires a fur coat. Legendary actor Rod Taylor voices Pongo, a fraternal Dalmatian. The film also features an array of talking animals, including other dogs, cows, a horse, a white goose, and even a thin, chatting cat.
4. Ratatouille (2007)
Ratatouille is Pixar's eighth film, featuring Patton Oswalt as a young rat with culinary dreams at a luxurious French restaurant. Jean's father, voiced by Brian Dennehy, leads their rat clan. Interestingly, pet rats were kept at Pixar studios so animators could observe their movements better. This film garnered five Academy Award nominations, winning for Best Animated Feature.
3. Shrek (2001)
Loosely based on William Steig's 1990 picture book, Shrek features the titular ogre, voiced by Mike Myers. Eddie Murphy provides much of the film's comic relief through his character, Donkey, which was inspired by a real miniature donkey named Perry from Barron Park, California.
2. The Lion King (1994)
As 1994's highest-grossing film, The Lion King showcases James Earl Jones as Mufasa, the lion king of the Pride Lands. Mufasa is the father of the main character, Simba, voiced by Jonathan Taylor Thomas and later by Matthew Broderick. Supportive talking animals in this iconic film include Nathan Lane as Timon the meerkat, Ernie Sabella as Pumbaa the warthog, and Rowan Atkinson as Zazu the hornbill. Whoopi Goldberg, Cheech Marin, and Jim Cummings voice the spotted hyenas.
1. Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)
Guardians of the Galaxy, the tenth installment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, centers on Rocket, a genetically-engineered raccoon and weapons expert voiced by Bradley Cooper. Rocket teams up with an assortment of extraterrestrial criminals on the run after stealing a powerful artifact. Cooper has noted that Joe Pesci's character from Goodfellas (1990) influenced Rocket's voice, which he has voiced in several sequels and other Marvel projects.
Earlier, SSP told about all Harry Potter movies: ranked from worst to best.