Animation is a form of filmmaking that is often related to second-tier status, something just for kids. This is by both the organisations giving out the awards and the guilds meant to promote their members’ work. However, they are not second-tier films; in many ways, animated films push the frontiers of filmmaking and what is possible, and they should be championed for their work.     

Animated films can be hand-drawn, stop/clay motion, or computer-generated; it does not matter, but all of them show the unique techniques of hundreds of artists that bring the work to life.

Our Highly Commended in 2023 are Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget & The Super Mario Bros. Movie
Our Best TV Animation in 2023 are Pokémon Concierge: Season 1, Rick and Morty: Season 7 & Star Trek: Lower Decks: Season Four

So, without further ado, these animated films showed us the glory of animation in 2023. Be warned that there may be slight spoilers for the movies in question. Also, click on the banners/titles to go to the full reviews of each of the films. 

The Nominees Are –

The Boy and the Heron

A heartbreaking and devastating exploration of grief set to a beautiful backdrop and wacky characters.

The Monkey King

While not all of this story works, it is like lighting striking when it does.

Nimona

A delightful tale of two misfits who find each other when they need them the most.

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse

A pure delight from start to finish in an absolutely stunningly realised world.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem

A delightful romp of a film, stunning in its animation and engaging in its story.

And the Winner is!!!!!

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse

Directed by – Joaquim Dos Santos, Kemp Powers & Justin K. Thompson
Screenplay by – Phil Lord, Christopher Miller & David Callaham
Based on – Spider-Man by Marvel

The middle film in a trilogy can often feel like it has been held back, stuck living in the shadow of what is to come. Not so here. They built on everything that worked in Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, and then took it even further. Focusing the first part of the film on Gwen (Hailee Steinfeld) helped bring a fresh view to the world. I mean this both narratively but also animatedly. Every world feels different and unique, from Lego and watercolour to everything in between.

   

By Brian MacNamara: You can follow Brian on Twitter Here, when he’s not chatting about Movies and TV, he’ll be talking about International Relations, or the Solar System.

What are your favourite cinematic moments from 2023?, let us know what you thought in the comments below, feel free to share this review on any of the social medias and you can follow us Here. Check out all our past reviews and articles Here, and have a happy day. 

Credits – All images used were created by the respective studios and artists of each film