Top 10 Animation Movies of 1999

A Year of Animated Magic: 1999

The year 1999 was a remarkable period for animation, marking a time when filmmakers embraced new technologies and storytelling methods to breathe life into animated worlds. This era was characterized by an eclectic mix of traditional hand-drawn techniques and emerging digital animation, offering audiences a diverse viewing experience. From heartwarming tales to fantastical adventures, 1999's animated films left a lasting impact on audiences and continue to be cherished by collectors today. As we dive into this list, we'll explore the standout films that defined the year and examine what makes them special for animation enthusiasts and collectors alike. Whether you're a fan of classic hand-drawn artistry or cutting-edge digital animation, there's something here for everyone to appreciate and add to their collection.

Why It Still Works

'Toy Story 2' is a landmark achievement in animation, standing as a testament to Pixar's storytelling prowess. The film took the beloved characters from the first 'Toy Story' and expanded on their world with more depth and humor. It seamlessly blends adventure, comedy, and emotion, making it a timeless classic.

Collector's Notes

For collectors, 'Toy Story 2' holds immense value as a piece of animation history. The film's pioneering use of CGI at a time when the technique was still in its infancy showcases the technical achievements of the era. Special editions and releases often include insightful behind-the-scenes documentaries and commentary tracks that delve into the creative process, making them a must-have for any animation aficionado.

Emotional Resonance

'Brad Bird’s 'The Iron Giant' is a moving tale of friendship and understanding, beautifully animated with a style that pays homage to mid-20th-century Americana. Despite its initial box office struggle, it has since become a beloved classic, praised for its heartfelt narrative and strong messages of peace and acceptance.

Collector's Notes

Collectors treasure 'The Iron Giant' for its artistic merit and the story behind its resurgence in popularity. Special editions often include a wealth of bonus features, such as director's commentary and retrospectives, making it a compelling addition to any collection. The film’s limited edition releases, often featuring exclusive artwork and packaging, are especially sought after.

A Musical and Visual Feast

Disney's 'Tarzan' brought Edgar Rice Burroughs' classic character to life with a vibrant blend of traditional and digital animation, creating a lush jungle environment that captivated audiences. Phil Collins' iconic soundtrack added emotional depth, complementing the film's exploration of identity and belonging.

Collector's Notes

For animation enthusiasts, 'Tarzan' represents a significant achievement in the use of 'Deep Canvas' technology, which allowed for a painterly look in the film's backgrounds. Collectors often seek out editions with comprehensive making-of features and music videos, which provide insights into the film's unique production process.

Satirical Brilliance

This animated feature took the irreverent humor of the 'South Park' television series to new heights, offering a sharp critique of censorship and the media. Its clever use of satire, combined with memorable musical numbers like 'Blame Canada,' earned it both controversy and acclaim.

Collector's Notes

Collectors appreciate 'South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut' for its bold approach to controversial topics and its place in pop culture history. Special editions often include audio commentary by creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone, offering a glimpse into their creative process and the film’s impact on animation and society.

An Epic Tale from Studio Ghibli

Although originally released in 1997 in Japan, 'Princess Mononoke' made its influential English-language debut in 1999. Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, this epic tale explores the conflict between nature and industry with stunning animation and a complex narrative.

Collector's Notes

The film's intricate artwork and thoughtful storytelling make it a prized possession for collectors. Special releases often include in-depth interviews with Miyazaki and production staff, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into a Studio Ghibli production. The film's influence and artistry make it a cornerstone of any animation collection.

A Cultural Phenomenon

'Pokémon: The First Movie' captured the zeitgeist of the late '90s, bringing the beloved Pokémon franchise to the big screen. It offered fans an emotional storyline centered around the powerful Pokémon Mewtwo, and its themes of identity and belonging resonated with audiences.

Collector's Notes

For collectors, the film holds nostalgic value and is a reminder of the Pokémon craze that swept the globe. Special editions often come with exclusive cards or memorabilia, making them valuable to fans of the franchise. The film's cultural impact and its role in expanding the Pokémon universe make it a noteworthy addition to any collection.

A Symphony of Animation

Serving as a sequel to Disney's 1940 classic 'Fantasia,' 'Fantasia 2000' brought a new set of animated interpretations to classical music masterpieces. The film's innovative blend of traditional and computer-generated animation created a visually stunning experience.

Collector's Notes

Collectors are drawn to 'Fantasia 2000' for its artistic ambition and its role in continuing Disney's legacy of combining music and animation. Special editions often include performances and commentary that explore the film's creative process, making it a valuable piece for those interested in the intersection of music and animation.

A Classic Reimagined

The animated adaptation of 'The King and I' brought the beloved Rodgers and Hammerstein musical to a new audience, combining traditional animation with the timeless story of cultural exchange and understanding.

Collector's Notes

Though not as commercially successful as other films on this list, 'The King and I' holds a unique place in animation history. Collectors appreciate its musical roots and the way it adapts a classic story for animation. Special editions featuring interviews with the filmmakers provide additional context and appreciation for this adaptation.

A Nostalgic Trip

Based on the popular Nickelodeon series, 'Doug's 1st Movie' brought the adventures of Doug Funnie to the big screen. It captured the charm and humor of the original series, delighting fans with its familiar characters and suburban antics.

Collector's Notes

For fans of '90s television, this film is a nostalgic gem, capturing the essence of a beloved children's series. Collectors often seek out these films for their nostalgic value and their representation of a specific era in children's entertainment. While it may not have the broad appeal of other films on this list, it holds a special place for those who grew up with Doug.

Timeless Family Entertainment

'Babar: King of the Elephants' brought the beloved storybook elephant to life with warmth and charm. The film stays true to the spirit of Jean de Brunhoff’s original tales, offering a gentle narrative suitable for family viewing.

Collector's Notes

Collectors of children's literature adaptations appreciate 'Babar' for its commitment to preserving the original story's charm and educational values. Special releases often include storybooks or art cards, enhancing the collectible nature of the film. It’s a delightful addition for those who enjoy family-friendly animations with a classic touch.

Wrapping Up 1999's Animated Wonders

The animated films of 1999 offered a diverse range of storytelling, from groundbreaking technological achievements to nostalgic adaptations that captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. These films not only entertained but also pushed the boundaries of what animation could achieve, and their legacy continues to influence the medium today.

For collectors, these movies represent a pivotal moment in animation history, offering a rich tapestry of styles and narratives that are a joy to own and revisit. Whether you're drawn to the cutting-edge CGI of 'Toy Story 2' or the timeless storytelling of 'The Iron Giant,' there's no denying the impact these films have had on the world of animation. So, dive into your collection, or start a new one, and celebrate the animated gems of 1999!