2023 Oscars: Best Animated Film Nominees

Hey movie buffs! Are you ready to dive into the magical world of animated films? The 2023 Oscars were a blast, and the Best Animated Feature Film category was undoubtedly one of the most exciting. In this article, we're going to break down each nominee, giving you the inside scoop and why they deserve the spotlight. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let's get animated!

The Nominees: A Closer Look

The 2023 Oscars showcased a diverse range of animated films, each with its unique charm and artistic brilliance. From heartwarming tales to visually stunning adventures, the nominees truly represented the best in animation. Let's explore each film in detail:

1. Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio

Okay, where do we even begin with this masterpiece? Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio isn't your typical Pinocchio story. It's a visually breathtaking, emotionally resonant, and thematically rich film that reimagines the classic tale in a darker, more poignant light. Set in Fascist Italy, this stop-motion animated film delves into themes of life, death, obedience, and rebellion. The intricate character designs, the stunning animation, and the powerful storytelling make it a standout.

Del Toro, known for his fantastical and often macabre style, brings a unique vision to the beloved story. The film doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of the narrative, exploring the complexities of Geppetto's grief and Pinocchio's struggle to find his place in the world. The stop-motion animation is a labor of love, with each frame meticulously crafted to create a visually stunning experience. The puppets themselves are works of art, imbued with personality and emotion.

But it's not just the visuals that make Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio so compelling. The story is deeply moving, exploring the relationship between a father and son, the impact of war on society, and the importance of being true to oneself. The film's message resonates with audiences of all ages, making it a timeless classic in its own right. The voice acting is superb, with Ewan McGregor as Cricket and David Bradley as Geppetto delivering particularly memorable performances. This film is a testament to the power of animation as a medium for telling profound and meaningful stories.

2. Marcel the Shell with Shoes On

This film is an absolute gem! Marcel the Shell with Shoes On is a mockumentary-style animated film that follows Marcel, a tiny one-inch-tall shell with shoes, as he navigates the world. It's heartwarming, hilarious, and surprisingly profound. The film blends stop-motion animation with live-action footage, creating a unique and charming visual style. Marcel's innocent perspective on life and his quirky personality make him an instant favorite.

What makes Marcel the Shell with Shoes On so special is its authenticity. The film feels incredibly genuine, thanks to the improvisational dialogue and the naturalistic performances. Marcel, voiced by Jenny Slate, is a character you can't help but root for. His resilience, optimism, and unwavering spirit are truly inspiring. The film explores themes of family, community, and the importance of connection in a world that can often feel isolating.

The story follows Marcel and his filmmaker friend Dean as they embark on a journey to find Marcel's lost family. Along the way, they encounter a variety of characters and situations that highlight the beauty and fragility of life. The film's humor is subtle and character-driven, making it a joy to watch. But beneath the surface, there's a deeper message about the importance of cherishing the small moments and finding joy in the everyday. Marcel the Shell with Shoes On is a reminder that even the smallest among us can have a big impact on the world.

3. Puss in Boots: The Last Wish

Puss in Boots: The Last Wish is a swashbuckling adventure that's both hilarious and heartfelt. This sequel to the 2011 film Puss in Boots sees our favorite feline hero confronting his mortality as he realizes he's on his last of nine lives. The animation style is vibrant and dynamic, with a unique storybook aesthetic that sets it apart from other animated films. Puss in Boots, voiced by Antonio Banderas, is as charming and charismatic as ever, but this film also delves into his vulnerabilities and fears.

The film's plot revolves around Puss's quest to find the Wishing Star, which can grant him one wish and restore his lost lives. Along the way, he's joined by his old flame Kitty Softpaws (voiced by Salma Hayek) and a lovable therapy dog named Perrito (voiced by Harvey Guillén). The trio faces a variety of challenges and adversaries, including Goldilocks and the Three Bears Crime Family and the Big Bad Wolf, who serves as a terrifying embodiment of death.

Puss in Boots: The Last Wish is a film that balances action, comedy, and emotion perfectly. The action sequences are thrilling and inventive, the humor is witty and self-aware, and the emotional moments are genuinely touching. The film's message about cherishing life and living in the moment is particularly poignant, making it a film that resonates with audiences of all ages. The voice acting is top-notch, with Banderas, Hayek, and Guillén delivering standout performances. This film proves that sequels can be just as good, if not better, than the original.

4. The Sea Beast

The Sea Beast is a grand adventure on the high seas, filled with thrilling action, stunning visuals, and a heartwarming message about empathy and understanding. This Netflix original film tells the story of Maisie, a young orphan girl who stows away on a sea monster hunting ship. The animation is breathtaking, with the sea monsters rendered in incredible detail and the ocean landscapes looking vast and immersive. The film's score is equally impressive, adding to the sense of epic adventure.

The story follows Maisie as she befriends Jacob, a legendary sea monster hunter, and Red, a giant sea beast. Together, they uncover a conspiracy that challenges everything they thought they knew about monsters and humans. The Sea Beast is a film that tackles complex themes of prejudice, propaganda, and the importance of questioning authority. It encourages viewers to see the world from different perspectives and to challenge their own biases.

The film's characters are well-developed and relatable, with Maisie serving as a strong and independent female protagonist. Her curiosity and compassion drive the story forward, inspiring Jacob to re-evaluate his beliefs. The relationship between Maisie, Jacob, and Red is the heart of the film, showcasing the power of friendship and understanding. The Sea Beast is a film that entertains while also making you think, making it a standout in the animated film landscape.

5. Turning Red

Turning Red is a coming-of-age story that's both hilarious and relatable. This Pixar film follows Mei Lee, a 13-year-old Chinese-Canadian girl who transforms into a giant red panda whenever she experiences strong emotions. The film is set in Toronto in 2002, and the cultural details are woven seamlessly into the story. Turning Red is a celebration of friendship, family, and the messy, awkward experience of adolescence. The animation style is vibrant and expressive, capturing the energy and emotions of the characters perfectly.

The film's central metaphor of turning into a red panda is a clever way to explore the challenges of puberty and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with it. Mei's struggles with balancing her cultural heritage, her friendships, and her emerging identity resonate with audiences of all backgrounds. The film also celebrates the power of female friendships and the importance of self-acceptance.

Turning Red is a film that's not afraid to be honest and open about the complexities of growing up. It tackles topics like anxiety, peer pressure, and the changing relationship between mothers and daughters with humor and sensitivity. The film's soundtrack is fantastic, featuring original songs and popular hits from the early 2000s. Turning Red is a refreshing and relatable addition to the Pixar canon, and it's a film that will resonate with audiences for years to come.

The Winner and Why

So, who took home the Oscar? Drumroll, please... It was Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio! And honestly, guys, it was so well-deserved. The film's stunning stop-motion animation, coupled with its powerful storytelling and emotional depth, made it a clear frontrunner. Del Toro's unique vision and the film's timely themes resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike.

Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio isn't just a visually beautiful film; it's a profoundly moving one. It tackles complex themes with grace and sensitivity, leaving a lasting impact on viewers. The film's win is a testament to the power of animation as a medium for telling meaningful stories, and it's a well-deserved recognition of Del Toro's artistic genius.

Final Thoughts

The 2023 Oscars animated film nominations were a fantastic showcase of the creativity and artistry in the world of animation. Each nominee brought something unique to the table, and they all deserve recognition for their incredible work. Whether you're a fan of heartwarming tales, swashbuckling adventures, or coming-of-age stories, there was something for everyone in this year's lineup. So, if you haven't already, give these films a watch – you won't be disappointed!

What were your favorite animated films of 2023? Let us know in the comments below! And until next time, happy watching!