A list of animated movies that have the most anticipated release this summer. Animated movies of all genres have become more popular with audiences of all tastes and ages. The animated films in this list have gathered the most attention with their anticipated releases. With these films, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re driven by the story, the impressive art, or hearing your favorite actor voice or sing through an animated character.
Inside Out 2
The long-awaited sequel features an older Riley navigating her old emotions while getting to know new ones. Joy, Sadness, Anger, Disgust, and Fear meet their new companions, Anxiety, Envy, Ennui, and Embarassment. However, when Anxiety takes control, the emotions must venture through Riley’s mind to travel back home. While the first film focused on Riley’s newfound emotions as a pre-teen, seeing her in a more complex state as she is now a teenager will be interesting. Plus, it is exciting to get to know the new emotions voiced by familiar actors. Amy Poehler returns as Joy, Phyllis Smith as Sadness, Maya Hawke as Anxiety, Ayo Edebiri as Envy, and many more. More information about the sequel can be found here. Inside Out 2 is available now, only in theaters.
Despicable Me 4
Illumination Studios introduces another chapter to the evil family’s story. Gru, voiced by the lovable Steve Carrell, introduces a new member of the family, Gru Jr., whose goal in life is torturing his father. On top of that, the family must deal with the prison escape of evil mastermind Maxime Le Mal, voiced by Will Ferrell, and his revenge on Gru. And, of course, the Minions return to the big screen with new shenanigans. The official trailer can be accessed here. Despicable Me 4 will be released on July 3 in theaters.
The Imaginary
Released by Studio Ponoc, The Imaginary depicts young Amanda and her imaginary friend, Rudger, as they embark on thrilling adventures. Suddenly, Rudger goes alone to the Town of Imaginaries, facing a harrowing threat. Viewers may recognize the film’s art style from director and renowned animator Yoshiyuki Momose. Fans of Studio Ghibli films and heartwarming stories may enjoy this film upon its release. Notable voice actors in the film include Haley Atwell, Kal Penn, LeVar Burton, with many more. If you want to know more about the film, go here. The Imaginary will be available on Netflix on July 5th.
Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Cosmos The Movie (Part 1 and 2)
For Sailor Moon fans, a new film will be available on streaming. Serving as the final chapter of the Sailor Moon Crystal series. The synopsis follows: “Sailor Moon must stand up and fight once again when a new enemy called Shadow Galactica, an organization bent on destroying everything and ruling the universe, begins eliminating her friends one by one. Her task requires her to persevere when solitude threatens to overwhelm her. Will she be able to protect those she loves? What awaits her beyond the battle? Sailor Moon fights on despite the pressure of her self-imposed mission as the final chapter of the beautiful and strong Sailor Guardians begins.” Director Tomoya Takahashi collaborates with the animation studios Toei Animation and Studio Deen to bring the final installment of the Sailor Moon Crystal Story to the screen. It will surely entertain new and old fans of the classic anime series. Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Cosmos: The Movie (Parts 1 and 2) will be available on Netflix on August 22nd. More information about the film can be accessed here.
The Wild Robot
A shipwrecked robot named Roz, voiced by Lupita Nyong’o, is stranded on a remote island. To save herself, she must bond with the animals around her and make friends along the way. Other notable voices include Pedro Pascal, Stephanie Hsu, Kit Conner, and many others. This animated film is mostly advertised toward families, with comedic writing keeping everyone engaged in the storyline. Plus, Dreamworks animators stun audiences with imaginative visuals. It is a must-watch with the film serving as Nyong’o’s first animated film. To learn more about the film and its release, click here. The Wild Robot will be released on September 27.
Piece By Piece
From Lego Studios, the film depicts the biography of music producer and pioneer Pharrell Williams, but in Lego form. Starting from his upbringing, fans of Williams and Legos learn how music influenced him to where he is today. Each impressive build depicts a prominent part of Williams’ career. While Lego has focused on the possible wonderful worlds made using its toys, it is interesting to focus on the life of a real person using the toys to depict actual events (with a little embellishment). On the surface, it seems like an unusual approach, if not fueled by capitalistic interest, but it may surprise audiences. Piece by Piece will be released in theaters on October 11th.
Moana 2
Continuing from the events of the 2016 film, Moana, voiced by actress Auliʻi Cravalho, sets on another journey to explore Oceania to fulfill a call from her ancestors. Along the way, she reunites with Maui, with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson returning to the role. With the release of the theatrical trailer, the film will surely introduce a new, bold adventure for the titular character while giving audiences new songs to sing along to for years to come. Moana 2 will be released in theaters on November 27.
Mufasa: The Lion King
A prequel to the live-action Lion King of 2019, the origin of Mufasa is told by Rafiki to Simba and Nala’s daughter Kiara, voiced by Blue Ivy Carter. Timon and Pumba, voiced by Billy Eichner and Seth Rogen, chime in with their version of events. Notable voices include Donald Glover returning as Simba, Aaron Pierce as Mufasa, Thandiwe Newton, Anika Noni Rose, Keith David, and many more. The continued installment is the CGI realism version of the Disney beloved The Lion King classic. With the film’s remake, well-known songs from the soundtrack have been covered for new audiences to enjoy. The film will be released on December 20th in theaters.
