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Family movie nights are made special with animated films that entertain and offer heartwarming messages. Here's a list of animated gems that might have flown under your radar but deserve a spot in your next family movie marathon. Available on platforms like Disney+ Hotstar, Prime Video and Apple TV+, these films not only dazzle with beautiful animation but also introduce themes of friendship, courage and self-discovery. Let's dive into these charming, lesser-known animated movies that promise to captivate kids and adults alike. Watch these to celebrate Children's Day with new stories that will speak to your heart.

1. Tim Burton's Corpse Bride

Available on: Prime Video, Apple TV+, YouTube (Rent)

This stop-motion dark fantasy follows Victor, a young man who accidentally finds himself engaged to a deceased bride, Emily, after rehearsing his wedding vows in a forest. Directed by Tim Burton, Corpse Bride takes viewers on a journey between the vibrant Land of the Living and the colourful yet eerie Land of the Dead. While Victor grapples with a marriage he never intended, the story delves into themes of love, loss, and redemption, making it a hauntingly beautiful watch. The film's gothic charm, coupled with its quirky characters, makes it perfect for a family movie night that’s a little offbeat and mysterious.

2. Elemental

Available on: Disney+ Hotstar

Set in the fascinating world of Element City, Elemental revolves around the budding friendship between Ember, a passionate and fiery character, and Wade, a relaxed and caring water-based being. Although they come from very different worlds—Ember’s family hails from the Fire side of the city while Wade’s is from Water—their connection blossoms into something unique as they challenge the boundaries that keep their elements apart. Elemental shines with its visual effects and relatable messages about acceptance and breaking stereotypes. It’s a fresh pick for families who enjoy seeing how two opposites can find common ground, blending fun and a lesson in embracing differences.

3. Disney’s A Christmas Carol

Available on: Disney+ Hotstar

An animated adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic, A Christmas Carol retells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly old man who despises Christmas and all the joy it brings. One fateful Christmas Eve, he is visited by three ghosts—Past, Present, and Future—who show him scenes from his life, reminding him of the love and compassion he’s long forgotten. The film combines Jim Carrey’s dynamic performance with stunning animation to bring a timeless holiday story to life. It’s a delightful, spooky tale that teaches kindness and generosity, perfect for watching with kids around the holiday season.

4. Soul

Available on: Disney+ Hotstar

One of Pixar’s more contemplative works, Soul centers around Joe Gardner, a middle school music teacher with dreams of becoming a professional jazz musician. After an unexpected accident, Joe’s soul is separated from his body, and he finds himself in the Great Before, a place where souls gain their personalities before being sent to Earth. Teaming up with a reluctant soul named 22, Joe embarks on a journey to rediscover the true meaning of life. Soul explores profound themes of purpose, passion, and fulfilment, wrapped in a kid-friendly package with humour and jazzy visuals. It’s an inspiring pick for families who enjoy animation with heart and depth.

5. Turning Red

Available on: Disney+ Hotstar

In Turning Red, 13-year-old Mei Lee experiences a unique coming-of-age problem: whenever she feels an intense emotion, she transforms into a giant red panda. Set against the backdrop of early 2000s Toronto, this heartwarming film follows Mei as she navigates the ups and downs of adolescence, friendships, and the expectations of her family. The film captures the humour and awkwardness of growing up while adding a delightful, fantastical twist. Directed by Domee Shi, Turning Red resonates with anyone who’s felt the pangs of growing up and the joy of embracing who they are.

6. Mufasa: The Lion King

Release Date: 20 December 2024

A prequel to the 2019 live-action adaptation of The Lion King, Mufasa: The Lion King delves into the backstory of Simba’s father, Mufasa. The film explores his rise to kingship, his relationship with his brother Scar, and the challenges he faced in establishing his reign over the Pride Lands. With the return of some iconic voices and stunning visuals, this film promises to capture the magic of the original story while adding depth to Mufasa’s character.

7. Moana 2

Release Date: 29 November 2024

The highly anticipated sequel to Disney's beloved Moana will continue the adventurous journey of Moana and her loyal companion, Maui. While details of the plot are under wraps, fans are excited to see how Moana’s journey evolves and what new challenges she will face as she continues to discover her identity and her place in the world. The film promises to bring back the same vibrant animation, catchy music, and themes of empowerment and self-discovery that made the first film a global hit.

From whimsical tales of acceptance to introspective journeys of self-discovery, these animated films bring together a mix of emotions, humour and life lessons. Whether you're in the mood for a classic Christmas story or a modern take on personal purpose, these titles are sure to make for memorable moments with your loved ones.

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