Since Disney revolutionized animation in 1937 with the release of the world’s first animated feature film, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, studios have continually used the medium to address real-world issues and convey important messages. Over time, there has been a significant societal shift toward understanding and addressing mental well-being. It’s no surprise, then, that animated movies have increasingly incorporated themes of mental health into their stories.
Here are 10 animated movies that explore issues surrounding mental health, ranging from child-friendly metaphors to dark, unflinching explorations of depression and other conditions. Each film contributes to reducing the stigma around mental health and highlights its importance.
10. Frozen (2013)
Directed by Chris Buck and Jennifer Lee
Frozen, one of the most successful animated movies of all time, follows Princess Elsa, whose magical ice powers inadvertently plunge her kingdom into eternal winter. Beyond its fairy tale exterior, Frozen subtly explores mental health through Elsa’s journey of self-isolation, anxiety, and depression, all symbolized by her struggle to control her abilities.
9. It’s Such a Beautiful Day (2012)
Directed by Don Hertzfeldt
It’s Such a Beautiful Day is an experimental animated film that delves into the life of Bill, who grapples with psychological and mental health issues such as hallucinations and memory loss. Praised for its unique blend of humor and surrealism, the film tactfully addresses complex mental health issues.
8. My Life as a Zucchini (2016)
Directed by Claude Barras
My Life as a Zucchini portrays the emotional journey of a young boy named Zucchini who finds himself in a foster home after the death of his mother. Despite its vibrant animation, the film doesn’t shy away from depicting the emotional challenges and mental health issues Zucchini faces in his new environment.
7. Anomalisa (2015)
Directed by Duke Johnson and Charlie Kaufman
Anomalisa explores the life of Michael, who perceives everyone around him as identical due to a psychological condition known as Fregoli Delusion. The film delves into themes of isolation, paranoia, and detachment, providing a poignant exploration of mental health through its unique stop-motion animation.
6. Rocks in My Pockets (2014)
Directed by Signe Baumane
Rocks in My Pockets employs a mix of 2D and 3D animation to tell interweaving stories of five women dealing with depression. Known for its unflinching portrayal of mental health issues, the film tackles themes of suicide, trauma, and stigma with a mature narrative aimed at adult audiences.
5. Finding Dory (2016)
Directed by Andrew Stanton
The sequel to Finding Nemo, Finding Dory follows Dory, a fish with short-term memory loss, on a quest to reunite with her long-lost parents. Through its colorful characters and engaging storyline, the film sensitively portrays Dory’s challenges with memory loss, anxiety, and overcoming obstacles.
4. Mary and Max (2009)
Directed by Adam Elliot
Mary and Max tells the story of an unlikely friendship between Mary, a lonely Australian girl, and Max, an American man with Asperger’s syndrome. Through their correspondence, the film explores themes of loneliness, depression, and the healing power of human connection.
3. Soul (2020)
Directed by Pete Docter and Kemp Powers
Soul takes viewers on a metaphysical journey as jazz musician Joe contemplates life’s meaning after falling into a coma. Through its imaginative plot and vibrant animation, the film explores themes of purpose, self-worth, and the pursuit of happiness, encouraging viewers to reflect on their own aspirations and mental well-being.
2. Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989)
Directed by Hayao Miyazaki
From Studio Ghibli, Kiki’s Delivery Service follows young witch Kiki as she navigates challenges of self-doubt and depression while living independently for the first time. The film metaphorically explores Kiki’s emotional journey through her struggle to regain her magical abilities and find her place in the world.
1. Inside Out (2015)
Directed by Pete Docter and Ronaldo Del Carmen
Inside Out takes place inside the mind of 11-year-old Riley, personifying her core emotions—Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust—as characters. Through its innovative storytelling and emotional depth, the film offers insights into mental health, depicting Riley’s struggles with moving to a new city and the importance of embracing emotional complexity.
These animated films demonstrate the power of animation to address complex issues surrounding mental health with sensitivity and creativity, contributing to broader conversations and understanding of these important topics in society.
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