Looking for the perfect animated movie to brighten your day or stir your heart? Here’s a fabulous list of 21 Netflix gems, new titles like Ne Zha 2 and KPop Demon Hunters, amazing classics, and hidden beauties you may have missed. Grab some snacks and settle in!

1. KPop Demon Hunters (2025)

A record-breaking animated musical sensation that mixes ( K-pop girl group ) energy with demon-hunting action. Stylish visuals, catchy songs, and powerful female leads turned this film into Netflix’s most-watched ever with over ( 236 million views ) and chart-topping hits like “Golden.” Think Buffy meets ( Hannah Montana ), and so holiday-level magical that it’s now in theaters too.

Why You’ll Love It: It’s fun, fierce, and unforgettably empowering.

2. Ne Zha 2 (2025)

A Chinese animated fantasy sequel packed with mythology, adventure, and cinematic flair. The ( hero Ne Zha ) returns in a bold new journey based on traditional tales updated with modern animation magic.

Why You’ll Love It: Epic, mythic, and visually dazzling, perfect for fans of folklore and big-screen thrills.

3. Raya and the Last Dragon (2021)

Set in the mythical land of Kumandra, this stunning (Disney) film follows Raya, (a brave warrior princess), on her quest to find the legendary last dragon, Sisu, in hopes of saving her kingdom from the evil plague known as the Druun. The story blends (Southeast Asian) cultural inspirations, breathtaking landscapes, and a deeply emotional theme of trust and unity.

The film features spectacular animation, from glowing dragon magic to lush jungles and busy markets, and a voice cast led by Kelly Marie Tran (Raya) and Awkwafina (Sisu). Unlike many Disney princess films, Raya focuses more on action, sword fights, and adventure while still holding that warm Disney heart.

Why You Should Watch It: It’s an empowering tale of courage and trust, mixed with jaw-dropping visuals and humor. Perfect for fans of fantasy and heartwarming adventure.

Where to Watch: Available on Disney+ and often featured in Netflix’s regional libraries.

4. Elemental (2023)

Set in a city where fire, water, land, and air residents live together, Elemental tells the story of Ember, a fiery (young woman) , and Wade, a go-with-the-flow water guy. Despite their differences, they form an unexpected bond that challenges the rules of their world. With stunning (Pixar visuals) and a heartwarming message about love, diversity, and acceptance, this movie is both fun and emotional perfect for (family movie nights).

5. Turning Red (2022)

Turning Red follows 13-year-old (Mei Lee), a confident but slightly dorky teenager torn between being her mother’s obedient daughter and the chaos of adolescence. Things get even more complicated when she suddenly transforms into a giant (red panda) whenever she feels strong emotions.

With its mix of humor, heart, and a nostalgic (early-2000s vibe) , this Pixar gem beautifully captures the struggles of growing up and learning self-acceptance. It’s relatable, funny, and perfect for anyone who remembers the rollercoaster of being a teenager.

6. Elio (2025)

Elio is Pixar’s exciting upcoming animated movie about an (11-year-old) boy who accidentally becomes Earth’s ambassador to the universe. When aliens mistake him for a leader, Elio is suddenly thrown into intergalactic adventures far beyond his comfort zone. With colorful new worlds, (quirky humor), and Pixar’s signature emotional storytelling, this film promises to be both fun and heartwarming. It’s one of the most anticipated animated releases of 2025!

7. Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (2025)

The blue speedster is back in Sonic the Hedgehog 3, one of the most awaited animated-live action hybrid films. Picking up after the events of the second movie, (Sonic), (Tails), and (Knuckles) face their toughest challenge yet with the arrival of (Shadow) the Hedgehog, a mysterious rival with powers equal to Sonic’s. Packed with high-speed action, humor, and nostalgia for fans of the classic Sega games, this movie is set to thrill both kids and adults. If you love adventure with a dash of comedy, this one’s a must-watch.

8. Moana 2 (2024)

Disney is bringing back the adventurous voyager in Moana 2, a direct sequel to the beloved original. In this new journey, Moana sets sail once again across the vast seas on a daring voyage that pushes her beyond her comfort zone. The sequel promises breathtaking visuals, new songs, and deeper storytelling about courage, culture, and connection with the ocean.

Fans will also see Moana grow as a leader while encountering new lands and challenges. If you loved the first film’s mix of (music), (heart), and (adventure), Moana 2 will definitely capture your heart again.

9. Lost in Starlight (2025)

Netflix’s first Korean animated feature: a beautiful sci-fi romance about love, loss, and futuristic space dreams. With voices by Kim Tae-ri and Hong Kyung, the film earned high praise and a rating of 8.49 on Naver.

Why You’ll Love It: A romantic voyage through the stars with stunning visuals and emotional depth.

10. Plankton: The Movie (2025)

From (SpongeBob) , Plankton gets his solo musical adventure as his scheming is met with a twist: his computer wife Karen takes center stage, and control. It’s a zany, musical spin-off full of laughs for all ages.

Why You’ll Love It: Nostalgia and creativity collide in a fun, family-friendly package

11 : Orion and the Dark (2024)

A heartfelt DreamWorks fantasy about a boy named Orion facing his fear of the dark with help from a friendly shadow creature. Iconic voice cast and a gentle story about dealing with anxiety.Why You’ll Love It: A comforting, imaginative tale that turns your fears into a companion.

12. My Father’s Dragon (2022)

Based on a classic children’s book, this charming adventure follows a young boy who rescues a friendly dragon on a (magical island). Cartoon Saloon brings its signature heartfelt animation to this touching story.

Why You’ll Love It: Storybook atmosphere and emotional storytelling that warms the soul.

13. Nimona (2023)

A (fantasy-comedy) with a fierce shape-shifting heroine and a disgraced knight. Think futuristic medieval vibes, queer themes, and badass animation. Critically acclaimed and award-nominated.Bold, fresh, and beautifully animated, Nimona redefines hero stories.

14. The Sea Beast (2022)

From the creators of (Moana), this film follows a young girl who sneaks aboard a sea monster hunter’s ship, leading to (adventure) and a change of heart about monsters.

Why You’ll Love It: Swashbuckling, heartfelt, and visually stunning.

15. Bubble (2022)

A visually stunning anime about parkour battles in a gravity-bent Tokyo. Adventure, beauty, and sound that invites repeat watching.

Why You’ll Love It: Breathtaking animation and emotional storytelling rolled into a sci-fi thriller.

16. The Mitchells vs. the Machines (2021)

Elevated by vibrant animation, this (comedy) sends a (hilarious) family against a rising robot uprising. A smart, hilarious, and touching family adventure.

Why You’ll Love It: Gen Z humor meets heart, this is family fun with flair.

17. Leo (2023)

Adam Sandler voices a 74-year-old class pet facing the end of his long life. A quirky, sweet, and surprisingly moving reflection on life and legacy.

Why You’ll Love It: A gentle, wise, and funny animation with unexpected emotional weight.

18. The Wild Robot (2024)

A robot finds survival and connection in nature. A beautifully animated, thoughtful exploration of nature and technology.

Why You’ll Love It: Peaceful, moving, and visually calming.

19. Puss in Boots: The Last Wish (2023)

Our suave feline hero faces his mortality in a wildly fun, visually rich adventure.

Why You’ll Love It: Humor, heart, and high-stakes swordplay, purrfect!

20. Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl (2025)

A claymation short bursting with quirky chases and sly humor from Aardman.

Why You’ll Love It: Charming, clever, and wonderfully British.

21. Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (2023)

Miles Morales continues traveling the multiverse with jaw-dropping visual style and creative storytelling.

Why You’ll Love It: Bold visuals, creative energy, and superhero heart

Final Thoughts

That’s your treasure trove of animation greatness, 21 Netflix animated films from 2021 to 2025 that sparkle, surprise, and stir the heart. Whether you crave laughter, thrills, nostalgia, or deep emotion, these films bring something special to every mood.