The best Pixar movie of all time? Yeah, that’s a tough one—and honestly, it depends on what kind of emotional damage you’re into. Some Pixar films feel like warm hugs. Others gut-punch you with childhood trauma, existential dread, or that one moment that breaks you at 1 a.m. on a Tuesday. After rewatching all 28 (yes, all of them), I figured I’d rank them—from the ones that made me question Pixar’s judgment to the ones that reminded me why we love them. This list isn’t “objective” or “critical”—it’s personal. It’s one friend telling another which movies slapped and which ones flopped. So buckle up. Here’s my completely biased, emotionally fueled ranking of every Pixar film ever made.
28. The Good Dinosaur
Look, I don’t hate The Good Dinosaur, but if I had to kick one Pixar movie off the island, this is it. It’s like they took the most basic boy-and-his-dog story, made the dog a human, and threw in some dino drama. It’s gorgeous to look at—those photorealistic backdrops are no joke—but the characters feel flat. Arlo spends most of the movie either scared or crying, and Spot, while cute, isn’t enough to carry the whole thing. There are a few fun scenes (cowboy T-Rexes?), but the pacing drags, and emotionally, it’s not doing much. Pixar is usually great at balancing heart and humor. This one leaned too hard on visuals and forgot the soul. I’ve never heard anyone argue this is the best Pixar movie—and that says it all.
27. Cars 2
We don’t talk about Cars 2 in this household. I mean, we do, but usually while shaking our heads. Pixar took Lightning McQueen’s story—something that at least had a bit of heart—and shoved him aside so Mater could run around being a spy. A spy! I love a goofy sidekick as much as the next person, but giving him his own Bond movie? That was bold… and not in a good way. The plot is loud, overly complicated, and missing the emotional depth Pixar is known for. I know this was made for kids, but even as a grown-up who loves animation, I felt like I was being pandered to. It’s flashy and chaotic and kind of exhausting. At least it gave us some cool visuals, but even that can’t save it.
26. Brave
I’ve gone back and forth on Brave for years. On paper, it should be incredible: a fierce redhead, archery, Scotland, and bears. But somehow, it still feels underwhelming. Merida is awesome—one of Pixar’s strongest female leads—but the movie doesn’t give her a story worthy of her spirit. The mother-daughter dynamic is touching, but it gets buried under a very odd bear plot that dominates way too much screen time. There are some great moments and visuals, but as a whole, it feels like two different movies fighting for control. Also, it doesn’t feel very “Pixar” to me—it leans more into classic Disney princess territory. Not the worst, but far from the best Pixar movie. It had potential to be iconic, and that’s what makes it frustrating.
25. Monsters University
Prequels are always tricky, and Monsters University is proof. I adore Monsters, Inc., so I was excited to see how Mike and Sulley became the dream team. But the prequel doesn’t add much to what we already know. It’s a typical college movie—with monsters. The setting is fun, the animation is colorful, and there are a few laughs, but it never hits that emotional depth we expect from Pixar. The rivalry-turned-friendship arc between Mike and Sulley is fine, but we already know how it ends. That takes away a lot of tension. It’s perfectly watchable, but it doesn’t really need to exist. I’d rather rewatch the original than revisit this one.
24. Cars 3
Now, Cars 3 surprised me a little. After the mess that was Cars 2, I didn’t expect much. But Pixar actually tried to bring some emotional weight back into Lightning McQueen’s story. This one’s all about legacy, mentorship, and knowing when to step aside—and I respect that. Cruz Ramirez is a great addition, and the story actually tries to say something meaningful. But even with all that, the Cars universe just isn’t my favorite. The stakes feel low, and the pacing can be slow. I admire the attempt to course-correct, but it’s still in the bottom tier for me. Definitely better than Cars 2, but calling it the best Pixar movie? Yeah… no.
23. A Bug’s Life
Ah, A Bug’s Life—Pixar’s second-ever film, and honestly, it shows. I don’t hate it, but it definitely feels like it came from a studio still figuring out its voice. The animation, for its time, was solid, and I’ll always appreciate Hopper as one of the studio’s darker villains. But compared to later Pixar magic, this one’s just kind of… fine. The characters are fun, but not super memorable—except maybe Heimlich, who steals every scene. The plot is a basic underdog story, and there’s nothing wrong with that, but it doesn’t pack much emotional punch. I’ll rewatch it if it’s on, but I’m never reaching for it. It’s a decent movie that laid the groundwork for greater things.
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22. Turning Red
Okay, real talk—Turning Red is totally unique in the Pixar lineup, and I respect the heck out of that. It’s colorful, bold, and deeply specific in a way we haven’t seen before from the studio. The early 2000s vibe? Nailed it. The awkwardness of puberty and generational expectations? Spot-on. But here’s my thing—it sometimes felt a little too niche for its own good. The emotional beats were strong, but not as layered as Pixar’s best. Mei’s journey is relatable, but it didn’t wreck me emotionally like some of the others did. It’s a good film, just not one I’d call the best Pixar movie—or even close.
21. Luca
Luca is such a gentle movie, and maybe that’s part of why it flies under the radar. There’s no major villain, no epic stakes, just a sweet little friendship between sea monsters in an Italian seaside town. The animation is stunning—like, postcard-worthy—and the soundtrack is quietly perfect. I love how it captures the feeling of a childhood summer, full of discovery and bike races and that one friend who changes your life. But emotionally? It’s kind of low-key. It didn’t hit me in the heart the way most Pixar films do. I liked it, but I didn’t feel like I needed it. Still, it’s charming, and sometimes that’s enough.
20. Elemental
I went into Elemental with low expectations, and maybe that helped because I actually liked it more than I thought I would. The world-building is clever—elements living in a big city, dealing with cultural clashes and generational tension? Cool idea. Ember and Wade have solid chemistry, and the emotional beats around family expectations felt real. But it’s also kind of predictable. You know where it’s headed from the start, and it doesn’t exactly throw any curveballs. The metaphor is obvious, and while it works, it doesn’t challenge the audience much. It’s a solid effort with some heart, but it’s not even close to being the best Pixar movie.
19. Toy Story 4
This one hurts a little. I love Toy Story—it’s the franchise that put Pixar on the map, and I’ll defend Toy Story 3 to my last breath. But Toy Story 4? I’m still not sure it needed to exist. Woody’s goodbye was already perfect, and this movie sort of reopens that wound just to say goodbye again. Forky is hilarious and existential in the best way, and I liked the new characters (Duke Caboom, hello), but the plot feels like a side quest. There’s emotional weight here, sure, but not enough to justify a whole new movie. It’s not bad, it’s just extra. I get why they made it, but for me, the series already peaked. I wouldn’t call this the best Pixar movie—but I might call it the most unnecessary.
18. Onward
Onward was one of those Pixar movies I didn’t expect to hit me emotionally—but by the end, I was ugly crying. It starts off a bit goofy, with elf brothers in a suburban fantasy world, but man does it sneak up on you. The relationship between Ian and Barley is what makes this movie work. The quest is fun and full of solid visual gags, but it’s that ending—when Ian realizes what his brother gave up for him—that’s where Pixar flexes its emotional muscles. That said, the world-building feels kind of wasted. There’s so much potential in this setting that never gets explored. It’s a really good movie, but not one I find myself returning to often. I appreciate what it’s doing, but it doesn’t crack my top tier.
17. Lightyear
Lightyear was one of the most confusing Pixar releases ever—not the plot, but the concept. Like… this is the movie that made Andy want a Buzz Lightyear toy? Really? It’s basically Pixar doing Interstellar with a familiar face slapped on it. Still, once you accept that weird setup, there’s actually a decent sci-fi story here. The visuals are fantastic, and Chris Evans does a solid job as a younger, more serious Buzz. There are some touching moments about purpose and failure that I didn’t expect. But overall, it feels a little cold for a Pixar film. It’s trying to be deep and epic but doesn’t quite hit either one. Definitely not the best Pixar movie, but I admire the ambition.
16. Soul
I know this one’s a bit divisive, but I loved Soul. It’s one of Pixar’s most mature movies, and it honestly feels like it was made more for adults than kids. The themes—purpose, identity, passion versus meaning—are heavy, but beautifully handled. Joe’s journey from thinking his life only mattered if he “made it” to realizing that living itself is the point? That hit hard. The jazz sequences are stunning, and the animation style when we’re in the soul realm is weird but works. I’ll admit, 22 was kind of annoying at first, but she grew on me. It’s not perfect, but it made me think in a way few animated movies do. Some people call it the best Pixar movie—I’m not quite there, but I get it.
15. Toy Story
It all started here, and honestly? Toy Story still holds up. The animation looks a little rough now, sure—but back in 1995, it was groundbreaking. What really stands the test of time is the story: jealousy, identity, friendship, and the fear of being replaced. That’s some heavy stuff for a movie about toys. Woody and Buzz have one of the best character arcs in animation history, and watching them go from rivals to teammates is endlessly satisfying. The humor still lands, and the pacing is tight. Every scene feels essential. It may not be my personal pick for best Pixar movie anymore, but it’s easily one of the most important. Without Toy Story, we wouldn’t have this list.
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14. Finding Dory
I had low expectations for Finding Dory, mainly because sequels can be hit or miss—but this one surprised me. It leans into Dory’s memory issues in a way that’s more emotional than I expected. It’s about trauma, self-worth, and the fear of being a burden, all wrapped in fish jokes and underwater hijinks. The aquarium setting is fantastic, and the new characters—like Hank the octopus—totally work. That said, it doesn’t have the same emotional wallop as Finding Nemo. It’s fun, heartfelt, and beautifully animated, but it feels like a companion piece more than a true standalone. Still, Dory’s journey is worth watching. Not the best Pixar movie, but a genuinely touching sequel that didn’t disappoint.
13. Toy Story 2
Toy Story 2 doesn’t get nearly enough credit for being as great as it is. Everyone always talks about the original or the third one, but the second? It’s quietly one of the most emotionally grounded. Jessie’s backstory alone could destroy a grown adult. “When She Loved Me”? I’m still not okay. What’s wild is how the movie balances that heartbreak with some genuinely funny moments—like the toy store scenes or the cleaner giving Woody a makeover. Also, Stinky Pete is a seriously underrated villain. He’s manipulative in a way that makes total sense for a toy left behind. This sequel didn’t just cash in on the first movie—it expanded the world beautifully. It’s not the best Pixar movie in my eyes, but it’s definitely near the top.
12. Coco
Okay, now we’re getting into dangerous territory—the kind where every ranking feels like betrayal. I adore Coco. The visuals? Breathtaking. The music? Constantly stuck in my head. “Remember Me” hits like a truck when you know what it means. And that final scene with Mama Coco? Tears. Just, endless tears. I love that it dives deep into Mexican culture and doesn’t water it down for mainstream appeal. The family themes, the connection to heritage—it’s all beautiful. I know some people would call this the best Pixar movie, and while it’s not my personal number one, I totally understand why they would.
11. Incredibles 2
This was one of my most anticipated sequels of all time, and for the most part, it delivered. Incredibles 2 picks up right where the first one left off, which I loved. Elastigirl taking the spotlight was a smart move, and Jack-Jack’s scenes? Instant classics. The raccoon fight alone deserves an award. But I did miss the emotional tension from the original—Bob’s whole “stay-at-home dad” arc was fine, but a little predictable. Screenslaver was an okay villain, but not super memorable. That said, the pacing, humor, and action were all on point. It may not be the best Pixar movie, but it’s one of the most fun to rewatch.
10. Ratatouille
Let me just say it: Ratatouille is wildly underrated. It’s a movie about a rat who wants to cook, and somehow it ends up being about dreams, creativity, and finding your voice in a world that says you don’t belong. Remy is one of the most lovable Pixar leads—he’s determined, smart, and not afraid to chase what he loves. The animation of the food? Don’t even get me started. I’ve never craved ratatouille (the dish) in my life until I saw this film. Anton Ego’s speech at the end is one of the best monologues Pixar’s ever written. I’ve watched this movie more times than I care to admit. Some days, it actually feels like the best Pixar movie—at least to my inner creative.
9. Up
The first ten minutes of Up are probably the most famous gut-punch in animated film history. That montage? Pure devastation. After that emotional firestorm, the rest of the movie becomes a quirky adventure with talking dogs and floating houses—but somehow it all works. Carl’s grumpy old man energy is peak, and Russell brings such warmth to the story. It’s about grief, letting go, and finding new purpose late in life. And don’t sleep on Dug or Kevin—they’re some of the funniest side characters Pixar’s created. I mean, the amount of times I quote “SQUIRREL!!” daily is in the 100s. The second half doesn’t quite match the brilliance of the opening, but it’s still amazing. Not the best Pixar movie, but emotionally, it’s definitely one of the heaviest hitters.
8. Inside Out
This movie absolutely wrecked me—in the best way. Inside Out takes abstract concepts like sadness, memory, and identity and somehow makes them feel completely real. It’s smart without being smug, emotional without feeling manipulative. Joy and Sadness’s dynamic is so layered, and Bing Bong? Don’t even mention Bing Bong to me unless you want to see a grown adult cry. What I love most is how it teaches kids (and adults) that sadness isn’t something to fix—it’s something to feel. That message alone would’ve made this great, but the clever world-building and genuinely funny moments push it even higher. The “core memory” concept is genius. On some days, this is the best Pixar movie—because it reminds you that emotions aren’t weaknesses, they’re superpowers.
7. Finding Nemo
If there’s one Pixar movie that feels like home, it’s Finding Nemo. Everything about it—the ocean visuals, the score, the humor—it’s just endlessly rewatchable. Marlin’s journey from anxious father to brave protector is one of Pixar’s most relatable arcs. Dory brings the laughs, sure, but she also delivers some deeply emotional moments. I still tear up when she begs Marlin not to leave her. And let’s not forget Crush, Bruce, or that terrifying scene with the anglerfish. Finding Nemo balances light and dark so well, it almost feels effortless. While it’s not my personal pick for best Pixar movie, it’s probably the one I’ve watched the most without ever getting tired of it. Do you remember who lives at 42 Wallaby Way?
6. Inside Out 2
I haven’t even seen the full movie yet—and I already know it’s going to mess me up emotionally in ways I’m not prepared for. Inside Out 2 brings Riley back, but now she’s a teenager. That means new emotions. New chaos. New heartbreak. The trailer alone introduced Anxiety as a major player, and she looks like she’s about to shake things up hard. The original film made me cry over imaginary friends and memory balls—what’s this one going to do with puberty and identity crises? I’m both terrified and completely ready. Even if it’s only half as good as the original, it’ll still land higher than a few on this list. It’s too soon to call it the best Pixar movie, but I wouldn’t be surprised if it gets there.
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5. Incredibles
Let’s go: The Incredibles is not just a great Pixar movie—it’s one of the best superhero movies ever made, period. The family dynamic is what sells it. Bob’s midlife crisis, Helen’s badass flexibility, Dash’s energy, Violet’s shyness—it’s all so perfectly written. Syndrome is a top-tier villain, especially because his motivations make sense. The pacing is tight, the action scenes are thrilling, and the humor still lands every time. I also love that it takes superheroes seriously without losing its fun. It’s stylish, smart, and somehow gets better with age. If someone told me this was the best Pixar movie, I’d nod and say, “You’re not wrong.”
4. Toy Story 3
If Toy Story 3 had ended Pixar’s run entirely, I would’ve been weirdly okay with that—it was that good. The emotional stakes are so high, and the themes hit even harder if you grew up with the original. Watching Andy pack up his toys? Devastating. The daycare scenes are tense, Lotso is a legit terrifying villain, and that incinerator moment? I was ready to say goodbye. And then the ending gave us all one final, gut-wrenching hug. It’s the rare trilogy that sticks the landing perfectly. Some fans say this is the best Pixar movie because it brings everything full circle—and honestly, I can’t argue with that.
3. Monsters, Inc.
Now this? This is comfort cinema at its finest. Monsters, Inc. has everything—an imaginative world, lovable characters, top-tier voice acting, and an emotional core that still hits over two decades later. Mike and Sulley’s friendship is peak Pixar—funny, genuine, and full of heart. Boo might be the cutest animated character ever created, and her bond with Sulley? That ending? That goodbye? Don’t even talk to me unless I’m holding a tissue. Plus, the whole energy-scariness-to-laughter arc is such a clever metaphor for empathy and change. It balances comedy and emotion so effortlessly. On any given day, this could easily be my best Pixar movie—because it never fails to make me laugh and cry, usually at the same time.
2. Cars
I will die on this hill: Cars is criminally underrated and deserves way more love than it gets. Yeah, yeah—I know it became a merch machine and the sequels kind of went off the rails, but the original? It’s full of heart. Lightning McQueen’s arc from arrogant hotshot to someone who genuinely understands humility, friendship, and small-town values? That hits. Radiator Springs is one of the coziest Pixar settings ever, and the pacing gives the story room to breathe in a way a lot of fast-cut animated films don’t. And Doc Hudson? ICON. That whole storyline about fading legacy and finding purpose again absolutely wrecked me. Plus, the soundtrack slaps—“Life Is a Highway” lives rent-free in my head. For real, this isn’t just a kids’ movie about talking cars—it’s about slowing down, finding your people, and figuring out what really matters. It might not be the obvious pick, but for me, this is one of the greats from Pixar.
1. WALL·E
Let’s be honest—no other Pixar film does what WALL·E does. It opens with 40 minutes of almost no dialogue and somehow delivers one of the most emotionally powerful love stories in animation. WALL·E is a lonely trash robot with more humanity than most live-action leads, and his connection with Eve is sweet, awkward, and completely unforgettable. The film’s world-building is stunning, from the desolate Earth to the sterile, consumerist space station. And yet, even with all the bleakness, it’s full of hope. There’s no heavy-handed preaching—just a quiet plea to take care of the planet and each other. The animation is flawless, the sound design is brilliant, and the ending always leaves me hopeful and teary-eyed at the same time. Every time I rewatch this, I’m reminded how bold Pixar can be when it trusts the audience to feel deeply. This isn’t just the best Pixar movie—it’s one of the best movies, period.
So, Did I Get It Right?
Alright, there it is—every single Pixar movie, ranked with love, sass, and a little emotional baggage. I know some of these takes might be controversial (looking at you, Cars haters), but that’s the fun of it. Pixar movies hit differently for everyone. What feels like a mid-tier movie to me might be the one that carried you through a breakup or made your kid laugh for hours. And that’s kind of the magic, right?
Whether you’re into sentient toys, grief-stricken old men in flying houses, or anxious red pandas figuring themselves out, Pixar has made something that sticks. There’s no real “wrong” pick for the best Pixar movie—just the one that hit you the hardest at the right time. So if mine isn’t your number one? Cool. Let’s argue about it over popcorn. Or cry about it in silence like we do every time Bing Bong fades away. Your choice.
Thanks for sticking around—and seriously, go rewatch your favorite tonight with your choice of preferred popcorn. I guarantee it still holds up.
