The early 2000s had many animated films with original plots and storylines that broke the traditional mold set by traditional Disney films. However, some of the films haven’t received as much recognition from younger Gen-Z audiences. Many of the recent animated films seem to be sequels of previous films, as they sell better. Therefore, the audiences today suffer from a lack of inventive storylines to give their hearts joy. This article will serve the animators and kids at heart. For future filmmakers, this analysis will be informative and inspiring.
1.) ‘Bee Movie’ (2007) – Paramount Pictures
Bee Movie, directed by Steve Hickner and Simon J. Smith and stars Jerry Seinfeld (Barry), Renee Zellweger (Vanessa), Patrick Warburton (Ken), Chris Rock (Mooseblood), Matthew Broderick (Adam), and Ray Liotta as himself. The story centers on Barry, a bee who just graduated college and finds his destined life of working with honey unfulfilling. So, he flies out of the hive and ends up meeting Vanessa, a woman, even though it is a fundamental aspect of the bee species. When he finds out humans have been stealing honey for years, he decides to sue humanity for theft with the support of his friend Vanessa.
The film is delightful as the storyline is clever and appealing for an animated cartoon in a comedy genre. It has a certain charm that stems from its witty dialogue and the voice acting of Renee Zellweger and Jerry Seinfeld. The characterization of the characters is natural and while it is an animated film, the film manages to establish very humane connections and emotions. The personalities are dynamic as the characters struggle over morals of what is right and wrong about the treatment of bees.
Warning before proceeding: Spoilers are ahead.
Why should you watch this film?
The original plot entertains and fulfills, as no previous film has explored the lifestyle of bees. It satisfies the yearning for connection across different backgrounds, represented through Vanessa and Barry’s relationship. The cinematography of the film is perfect as it doesn’t push for cuts and movement too much, but it manages to carry the viewer on an interactive ride. The aesthetic of the atmosphere visually pleases with its bright, colorful flowers of nature and the lively depiction of bees. The music is very upbeat and varies throughout the film to maintain the different moods. It creates a distinct nostalgic feeling, but it also manages to create a dramatic cinematic quality that seems to be lacking in other animated films. The atmosphere at times feels like a live-action film with a serious goal in mind.
In-depth
The story paces well, reflecting the deep connection between Vanessa and Barry. Their chemistry from the start shows through the careful animation of their faces. The voice acting, combined with their expressive faces, enhances the lifelike sensation that translates across the screen. The story has chapters that don’t drift far from the main characters. Many animated films with shallow stories tend to invite multiple characters to fill the gap. This film manages to exceed these lazy tactics as we get to form connections closer to the existing characters.
The film displays its comedy through many iconic moments, making it a true gem of the early 2000s. Some of those moments include the graduation ceremony which is a perfect entrance to the film, as we get a taste of Barry’s lovable personality. The introduction to the honey-making process or behind-the-scenes moments is fitting considering the film is titled Bee Movie. It’s humorous that many people find fascination in imagining how animals would live if we personified them.
Another enjoyable moment included the court scene where we reach the climax of the film. The absurdity of the witnesses and Barry’s lawyer skill perfect the scene. The voice of Oprah as the judge, and the impending doom of Ray Liotta’s face on jars of honey is a frightening and exhilarating moment.
Overall, kids of the early 2000s appreciate the film, but it has mostly stayed under the radar. If you are looking for a fresh film that is comedic but atmospheric in a world of nostalgia, then this film is worth the watch.
2.) ‘Monster vs Aliens’ (2009) – DreamWorks Animation/ Paramount Pictures
Monsters vs. Aliens, directed by Rob Letterman and Conrad Vernon. Rob Letterman has directed films like Goosebumps (2015), Gulliver’s Travels (2010), Shark Tale (2004), and Pokémon Detective Pikachu (2019). Conrad Vernon has directed films like The Addams Family (2019), Sausage Party (2016), and Shrek 2 (2004).
The story centers on Susan Murphy (Reese Witherspoon), a woman hit by a meteor on her wedding day, turning her into a giant. The intelligent doctor cockroach, Dr. Cockroach (Hugh Laurie), is the big brains of the monsters in the secret compound. B.O.B. (Seth Rogen), is the blue, one-eyed jelly, who is the silly goober, keeping the spirit of the group. The Missing Link (Will Arnett), is the cool fish/ape animal who acts like a jock but is just out of shape. Insecto is this big soft insect that, despite its large size, has the biggest heart of all.
The cast delivers lively performances, showcasing their unique acting abilities, in the action-packed thrill ride that is the film. The fresh idea never explored before that makes the film original, is separating monsters from aliens. In this film, the protagonist Susan learns to handle her size and become friends with the monsters here on Earth, yet the idea of something alien from out of space seems to be the real issue and fear. This theme of accepting each other’s flaws in society unfolds as the aliens come to harm the planet. The monsters are the heroes of the human race on Earth.
Warning before proceeding: Spoilers are ahead.
Why should you watch this film?
The film’s pacing is well-designed, balancing the intense drama of Susan’s transformation and discovery of her capabilities with the alien invasion and the military’s subplot. The score of the film is perfectly representative of the aesthetic of the early 2000s film as having an independent narrative that appears more cinematically qualified. The film’s sound is grander and surpasses the usual stereotypes of animated films. It features many iconic scenes that highlight why 2000s animated films have such a quirky attitude and energetic storytelling.
The film manages to have many transitions that keep the fluidity of the film, while not confusing the viewer. The beginning of the film is shots of outer space, that smoothly transition into two nerdy men that are calculating the landing of the meteor. Soon, we move to Susan’s home, which is the exact location where the meteor lands. This is a perfect introduction to the film as the tense progression of the meteor allows for the anticipation to create a larger reaction when it lands.
Susan’s personality is introduced through a humorous bit of her talking to her fiancé through the T.V. We quickly cut to the preparation of the wedding, where disaster strikes. Early on in the film, a climax has formed on its own, where we feel like the height of the film can not go any higher. However, cutting straight to her being imprisoned, moving swiftly along with the next problem and with new characters. The introduction is fantastic, and the rest of the film manages to keep up with the eventful and thrilling entrance.
In-depth
The score of the film, by Henry Jackman, is not child-like but rather grand, and fits the characters; there are some slightly crude jokes and scenes that would most likely not be in an animated film, and certainly not in a Disney film. Therefore, the music and the iconic aspect of the film work hand in hand. Memorable moments include the wedding scene at the altar, where her transformation occurs—an iconic scene where she grows out of her dress in front of everyone—and the subsequent attack in an open field by the military. The music swells as a big orchestra supports the many unspeakable emotions only explainable through sound.
Another extremely iconic moment is when the president, is playing the keyboard in front of the alien, and the comedy behind this scene alongside the catch tunes, works perfectly. The film also has little gem moments that tie the energy of the film perfectly. When Susan uses cars as shoes, the music creates an adventure-like feeling that escapes from Susan’s familiarity with her giant body. This includes the snippet where a worker scans their tongue and butt to receive entry access into a classified building with the government. The little details like this cause the film to stand out and properly represent 2000’s animations.
3.) ‘Bolt’ (2008) – Walt Disney Pictures
Bolt was directed by Byron Howard and Chris Williams. Byron Howard also directed Zootopia (2016), Encanto (2021), and Tangled (2010). Chris Williams also directed Big Hero 6 (2014) and The Sea Beast (2022). The story centers on Bolt (John Travolta), a dog TV star, who doesn’t know that the dangers he and his co-star Penny(Miley Cyrus/Chloe Grace Moretz) are experiencing are nothing more than episodes of a show, where Penny’s father is kidnapped. She has to try and save him while also escaping the bad guys, with the help of her super dog, which her father built to protect her. He also believes that the superpowers he has on screen, are real. To continue his acting chops, they feed his fear of Penny being kidnapped.
This film is extremely entertaining as the storyline is engaging due to its uniqueness; and the characters are certainly engaging and expressive, bringing human qualities with a realistic storyline. The charm of John Travolta’s voice is surprisingly a perfect match. The film has a homey quality as the film’s theme is ultimately Bolt’s desire to have a home. As a dog actor, he is easily replaceable, and all he longs is to protect Penny and be loved by her.
Warning before proceeding: Spoilers are ahead.
Why should you watch this film?
The film’s music is extremely fitting for the story and gives the feel-good family fun, while also providing cool action sequences and exciting friendships. The editing of the action sequences includes slow motion, along with multiple different angled shots. The film’s plot perfectly blends conflict and resolution, with the protagonist, Bolt, restlessly searching for Penny, only to discover he is the one who is lost.
In-depth
The film has many iconic moments and stages as the film starts in the style of a thrilling TV show, confusing but interesting the audience with thinking the show is real. This puts us in the perspective of Bolt, the protagonist. The sequence cuts perfectly like a real trailer from the 2000s, then shifts to a realism style as we delve into the behind-the-scenes of the show. The adventures of Bolt give us the taste of the trope of an actor going into a rural place to rediscover themself. The film reveals how showbiz often forces and fakes many connections. It tests integrity and morals as Penny and Bolt remain constantly separated. The film doesn’t need supernatural forces to create an engaging conflict; reality serves it best.
The song featured in the film, “Barking at the Moon” by Jenny Lewis (2008), perfectly sums up the film. It exposes trickery as we move from on-set to behind-the-scenes, never certain if a plot twist is coming. This song gives the truth, which is far more wholesome, and quite tear-jerking. Bolt experiences a trope not commonly seen in animated films, but rather in live-action cinema. Overall, the films are an excellent representation of why 2000’s films have appreciated quality and respected their art form.
4.) ‘Hoodwinked!’ (2005) – Blue Yonder Films/ Kanbar Entertainment
Hoodwinked was directed by Cory Edwards, Todd Edwards, and Tony Leech. The central cast stars Anne Hathaway (Little Red Riding Hood), Glenn Close (Granny Puckett), Cory Edwards (Twitchy Squirrel), Patrick Warburton (Wolf W. Wolf), and Andy Dick (Boingo) as voice actors. The film is a new retelling of the Red Riding Hood story. The film manages to twist the entire film into a detective mystery as many characters turn out to be untrustworthy, and where Red Riding Hood is a girl boss. It is a unique spin, that manages to entertain in a fresh way, where the use of the classical story is unrecognizable.
The film is notable for its comedy and characterization. The characters are more dynamic than in the original, with many new ones introduced and the old ones better developed. The design of the characters and overall animation is unique, and fitting to the aesthetic. The film represents the grungy and imperfect characters through their flawed yet distinct appearance. The film isn’t afraid to push boundaries, which is the overall appeal of the film. It very well represents the 2000s’s uncensored and worldly setting.
Warning before proceeding: Spoilers are ahead.
Why should you watch this film?
The plot of the story is an excellent twist and retelling of a classic that manages to introduce plenty of conflicts and mysteries through a detective lens. The editing is wonderfully done as a technical aspect of the film. It perfectly captures the dramatic and gestural pacing. The story reveals the secrets and motives of many characters that seem to work rationally and cut fluidly. The characterization of the characters is very standout from typical tropes. The entire theme of the film is to stand standout from the parameters of the previously flat characters. By juxtaposing the anti-fairytale and flawed characters against the traditional, the effect is stronger.
In-depth
The film has many iconic and fun moments, such as the skiing segment with Granny. Not only is it a shock, but it is entertaining to root for Granny to defeat younger criminals. Another iconic segment is the railroad ride in the mine. It is thrilling as the cinematography moves, creating POV moments as we feel the turbulence of the ride. What is interesting and iconic about the film is that Boingo is such a perfected villain. He contrasts so much with the kind-hearted wolf that was wrongly accused. The chosen animals work perfectly as rabbits tend to appear more innocent compared to wolves when personified.
The film makes use of good editing, where many shots feel cinematic, with zoom-ins, birds eye views serving as transitions, photo graphs transitions to memories, and pans. The flashbacks and explanation scenes are among the best, as they fill in gaps that poor writing might have left. However, the film takes the correct cinematic steps to ensure thorough planning for an animated mystery. The overall film will leave an impression that will educate the necessary aspects of cinematic animation.
5.) ‘Sinbad: Legend of the Seven Seas’ (2003) – DreamWorks Pictures/Universal Pictures
Sinbad: Legend of the Seven Seas was directed by Tim Johnson and Patrick Gilmore. Tim Johnson has also directed Antz (1998), Home (2015), Over the Hedge (2006), How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming (2019), and Kung Fu Panda Holiday (2010). The story centers on Sinbad, a mariner, set on the mission of retrieving the Book of Peace after being framed by Eris, the Goddess of Chaos, for its theft. The film stars Brad Pitt (Sinbad), Michelle Pfeiffer (Eris), and Catherine Zeta-Jones (Marina), as the central cast. The voice acting of the three actors is one of the pleasant and well-developed portions of the film. The aesthetic of the film is a hint of seduction from both Eris and Marina which is captured by Jones and Pfeiffer’s tone of voice, and speech patterns. The energy flows through the film.
This animated film delivers another action-packed adventure with beautiful visuals that stand out from many others. The film fully appreciates and develops the 2D element, making its design and aesthetic visually pleasing. The characters of the film are strong and though animated, have undeniable chemistry. The pacing of the film through different locations is timed perfectly. There is truly an immersive experience to the film.
Warning before proceeding: Spoilers are ahead.
Why should you watch this film?
This film is worth the watch due to its overall visual aesthetic and atmosphere. The interactive and specific world is enjoyable to be entrapped in, which is created through the vivid color palette. It consists of many secondary colors, that keep from distracting too much. This allows the world to look more cohesive. The characters are memorable because of their strong and defiant personalities. Sinbad is known for being mischievous and flirtatious. This is successfully achieved through the animated expressions and physicality of the animation. The sound is what carries it through. Both the sensual and hypnotizing voice of Eris is contrasted with Marina’s higher pitched and inquisitive voice.
In-depth
The music is perfect for creating the grand and ethereal environment that is ruled by Eris. The music manages to keep up with the fast-paced element through many different instruments. It creates a traveling experience that seems to be a specific type of woodwind and drum mixture. Eris seems to have a common theme, that shows the fear that she is trying to instill in Sinbad, yet it manages to keep it light as all the characters seem to take things playfully.
The 2D type of animation allows it to stand out from modern cartoons that try to capture adventure. However, there is lots of fluid movement which is satisfying portrayed in Eris’s hair. It constantly makes her seem light and provides the right effect. The use of colors along with the balance and contrasts between light and dark, work to create the 3D element, yet manage to keep the 2D aesthetic. Overall the film is beautiful and extremely entertaining.
Final Takeaway
Overall, the 2000s had many classic films emblematic of great animated films! These few happen to be both unique and iconic pieces of cinema to this day.
