The 5 Best Blue Sky Studio Movies, Ranked

Blue Sky Studios significantly impacted American animation during its tenure. Owned by 20th Century Fox, it produced acclaimed films from the 2000s and 2010s, such as "Ice Age", "Rio", and "The Peanuts Movie". Critics may have varied in their opinions, but the studio consistently created unique worlds, meaningful messages, and memorable performances from talented voice actors.

Following Disney's acquisition of Fox in 2019, Blue Sky's future became uncertain. Ultimately, the studio shut down in 2021. Though some beloved characters and canceled projects have seen revival, the studio's unique charm has faded. Regardless of mixed critical reception, Blue Sky Studios demonstrated remarkable creativity in every project it undertook.

5. Ferdinand (2016)

Based on the classic children's book, "Ferdinand" introduces a bull whose heart is as big as his size. Raised by a little girl named Nina (Lilly Day), Ferdinand (John Cena) opts for peaceful days in the field rather than fighting. However, after accidentally destroying the town square, he is taken back to the bullfighting ranch of his origins.

At the ranch, Ferdinand realizes that bulls not chosen for fights are turned into meat. To save his new friends and return home, he must confront El Primero (Miguel Angel Silvestre), one of the world's greatest bullfighters. The film's straightforward storytelling is complemented by Cena's heartfelt performance as Ferdinand, enriching the emotional experience.

4. Ice Age: The Meltdown (2006)

Set sometime after the original film, "Ice Age: The Meltdown" follows Manny, Sid, and Diego in a valley under an ice wall. When they discover the impending meltdown threat, they seek safety. During this quest, Manny meets Ellie, a mammoth raised by possums. As they aim to find a new home, a romantic connection blossoms between Manny and Ellie.

Although "The Meltdown"'s plot may not be as robust as its predecessor, it remains significantly tighter than subsequent sequels. Ellie's self-discovery adds emotional depth, while the entertaining dynamic between her and her possum siblings, Eddie (Josh Peck) and Crash (Seann William Scott), enhances the narrative experience.

3. Robots (2005)

"Robots" takes place in a vibrant world inhabited by sentient robots. Young inventor Rodney Copperbottom (Ewan McGregor) moves to Robot City, hoping to make his mark. After learning about missing idol Bigweld (Mel Brooks), Rodney discovers his company is now in tarnished hands prioritizing glitzy upgrades over the well-being of robots.

Despite its somewhat predictable story, "Robots" captivates viewers with unique settings, dark themes, and engaging characters. Performances from McGregor, Brooks, Stanley Tucci, and Robin Williams shine brightly in this universe, underscoring its poignant message: no matter your composition, everyone can be special.

2. Ice Age (2002)

"Ice Age" tells the tale of a grumpy woolly mammoth named Manny who forms an unlikely bond with an outcast sloth named Sid. As they migrate north while other animals head south, they find a dying woman and rescue her baby from saber-toothed tigers. These events lead to a calculated saber-toothed tiger named Diego hunting them down.

Throughout their journey, the trio bonds while facing dangers in the icy wilderness. As Blue Sky's first hit, "Ice Age" laid the groundwork for its enduring franchise and introduced the beloved character Scrat (Chris Wedge). Though darker than its sequels, the film emphasizes the importance of family and overcoming past traumas.

1. The Peanuts Movie (2015)

Over half a school year, Charlie Brown (Noah Schnapp) struggles to win the attention of the Little Red-Haired Girl (Francesca Angelucci Capaldi). Despite continuous failures in his attempts, his relentless spirit propels him forward, despite negative feedback from peers. The story follows Charlie while offering humorous detours featuring other characters, including Snoopy (Bill Melendez).

In the realm of animation, "The Peanuts Movie" stood out for its innovative combination of computer animation with a hand-drawn aesthetic, paving the way for future animated films. Reminiscent of Charles Schulz's original strips, the film's art style successfully translates to 3D. When evaluating animation quality, storytelling, and voice acting, "The Peanuts Movie" remains unparalleled among Blue Sky Productions.

Earlier SSP told about the 5 best stop-motion animated movies since 2015.