The 97th Academy Awards are set to take place on March 2, 2025, and one of the most exciting categories is Best Animated Feature Film. This year’s nominees showcase a diverse range of storytelling styles, from hand-drawn animation to stop-motion and cutting-edge CGI. Here’s a closer look at the films that made the cut.
1. Flow
Directed by: Gints Zilbalodis
Produced by: Matīss Kaža, Ron Dyens, Gregory Zalcman
“Flow” is an awe-inspiring animated film that takes audiences on a mesmerizing journey through a surreal world. The film is known for its minimalist, wordless storytelling, using stunning visuals and sound design to convey deep emotions. Gints Zilbalodis, the visionary behind the film, delivers an experience that feels both intimate and grand in scale. With its unique artistic direction, “Flow” stands as a strong contender for the top prize.
2. Inside Out 2
Directed by: Kelsey Mann
Produced by: Mark Nielsen
Pixar’s long-awaited sequel, “Inside Out 2,” brings audiences back into the world of emotions. The film continues the story of Riley, now a teenager navigating new challenges. With Kelsey Mann at the helm, this installment introduces new emotions and expands on the beloved themes of the original. The combination of Pixar’s trademark storytelling, humor, and emotional depth makes this sequel a major competitor for the Oscar.
3. Memoir of a Snail
Directed by: Adam Elliot
Produced by: Liz Kearney
Adam Elliot, the Academy Award-winning director of “Harvie Krumpet,” returns with “Memoir of a Snail.” This stop-motion animated feature tells a deeply personal and touching story of self-discovery and resilience. Known for his unique claymation style and heartfelt storytelling, Elliot crafts another memorable animated experience that resonates with audiences of all ages.
4. Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl
Directed by: Nick Park, Merlin Crossingham
Produced by: Richard Beek
Aardman Animations revives its most beloved duo, Wallace & Gromit, in this exciting new adventure. Directed by Nick Park and Merlin Crossingham, “Vengeance Most Fowl” brings back the classic British humor, inventive storytelling, and charming stop-motion animation that fans love. This film marks the long-awaited return of the iconic pair, making it a strong contender in this year’s race.
5. The Wild Robot
Directed by: Chris Sanders
Produced by: Jeff Hermann
Based on the bestselling book by Peter Brown, “The Wild Robot” is DreamWorks Animation’s latest masterpiece. The film tells the heartwarming story of a robot stranded on an island, learning to care for an orphaned gosling while discovering its own sense of purpose. With Chris Sanders at the helm (known for “Lilo & Stitch” and “How to Train Your Dragon”), the film blends stunning animation with an emotional narrative that has captivated audiences worldwide.
Who Will Win?
This year’s nominees highlight the incredible evolution of animation, each bringing something unique to the table. Pixar’s “Inside Out 2” holds the advantage in terms of mainstream popularity, but “Flow” and “Memoir of a Snail” offer fresh artistic visions that could sway Academy voters. Will a returning favorite like “Wallace & Gromit” or “The Wild Robot” take home the gold? We’ll have to wait until Oscar night to find out!
