The article ranks six of the strongest animated films released since 2010, arguing that animation has undergone a creative renaissance as studios, audiences and critics increasingly recognise the craft involved. It highlights the industry’s shift away from Pixar’s dominance, with DreamWorks, Sony, Laika, Aardman and international studios taking greater creative risks.

– Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio is praised for its handcrafted stop-motion style, darker tone and exploration of fascism and outsiders.
– The LEGO Movie is celebrated as an unexpectedly thoughtful, funny satire about creativity, play and storytelling.
– Zootopia is described as a durable example of Disney producing an ambitious original story outside Pixar’s influence.