Animation in 2025 proved, once again, that the medium is limitless. This year’s animated films moved effortlessly between spectacle and sincerity, mixing pop culture, mythology, sci-fi and coming-of-age stories with striking visual styles. Whether it was a big studio sequel, a global animated hit, or a genre-bending original, these films reminded audiences that animation can be playful, emotional and deeply imaginative at the same time.
Here’s a curated list of the best animated movies of 2025, available across Netflix, JioHotstar, and theatres, ranked for their storytelling, visual ambition and lasting impact.
One of the most inventive animated releases of the year, ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ blends pop superstardom with supernatural action. By day, a wildly popular K-pop girl group dominates charts and stadiums. By night, they battle demons threatening humanity. The film stands out for its slick animation, catchy music and surprisingly emotional themes around friendship and identity. Its breakout song Golden even landed on the Oscars shortlist, cementing the film’s cultural impact.
A visually stunning follow-up to the 2019 hit, ‘Ne Zha 2’ expands its mythological universe with confidence. Drawing from Chinese folklore, the film balances epic action with emotional storytelling, exploring destiny, loyalty and self-acceptance. Its animation is grand and fluid, making it one of the most impressive animated spectacles of 2025.
The charming animal anti-heroes return in ‘The Bad Guys 2’, upping the stakes while retaining the wit and energy of the original. As the reformed gang attempts to live quietly, a new criminal group pulls them back into chaos. Fast-paced, colourful and laugh-out-loud funny, the sequel proves that redemption arcs can still be wildly entertaining.
Pixar’s ‘Elio’ is a heartfelt sci-fi adventure about belonging. When a lonely, space-loving boy is mistaken for Earth’s ambassador by aliens, he’s forced to find confidence in an unfamiliar universe. With its emotional depth and imaginative world-building, Elio is gentle, moving and visually rich.
Based on the popular graphic novels, ‘Dog Man’ is energetic, silly and full of heart. Its quirky animation style mirrors the books perfectly, while its themes of friendship and doing the right thing resonate beyond its young audience.
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The long-awaited sequel, ‘Zootopia 2’, reunites Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde for another mystery in a city that continues to evolve. Smart, socially aware and entertaining, the film expands its world while holding on to the empathy that made the original beloved.
Anime fans were rewarded with ‘Demon Slayer Infinity Castle’, a visually breathtaking adaptation of the series’ most intense arc. Packed with emotional stakes and jaw-dropping action, it’s a cinematic event that left a lasting impression.
From musical demon battles to mythological epics and heartfelt space adventures, 2025 was a standout year for animation.
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Image Courtesy: IMDb
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