Laika Movies Ranked: From Worst To Best Animated Films

Hey guys! Let's dive into the awesome world of Laika Studios. Known for their incredible stop-motion animation and captivating stories, Laika has consistently delivered movies that are visually stunning and emotionally resonant. But, like any studio, some films shine brighter than others. So, let's get into ranking all of Laika's movies from what I consider the least amazing to the absolute best.

Ranking Laika's Films

6. Missing Link (2019)

Missing Link, released in 2019, is often considered Laika's weakest film, though it's still a visually impressive and entertaining adventure. The story revolves around Sir Lionel Frost, a brave and slightly pompous investigator of mythical creatures, who embarks on a journey to the Pacific Northwest to prove the existence of the Sasquatch. He encounters Mr. Link, a gentle giant who is the last of his kind, and together they set off to find Link's relatives in the Himalayas. The voice acting is superb, with Hugh Jackman as Sir Lionel, Zach Galifianakis as Mr. Link, and Zoe Saldana as Adelina Fortnight, an independent and resourceful adventurer. While the animation is as stunning as you'd expect from Laika, with incredibly detailed character designs and vibrant environments, the story feels somewhat generic and lacks the emotional depth of Laika's other films. The humor is there, but it doesn't always land, and the overall plot feels like a retread of familiar adventure tropes. Despite its flaws, Missing Link is still a visually appealing movie. The character animation is top-notch, and the world-building is impressive. The film's message of acceptance and finding your place in the world is also commendable, even if it's not as subtly woven into the narrative as in Laika's better works. Ultimately, Missing Link is a fun but forgettable entry in Laika's filmography, making it rank at the bottom of the list. It's definitely worth a watch for the animation alone, but don't expect the same level of emotional resonance as their other masterpieces.

5. The Boxtrolls (2014)

Next up is The Boxtrolls, which came out in 2014. This movie has a special charm, even if it doesn't quite reach the heights of Laika's best. The Boxtrolls tells the story of Eggs, a human boy raised by the Boxtrolls, lovable creatures who live in the sewers beneath the city of Cheesebridge. The town is obsessed with cheese, and the villainous Archibald Snatcher is determined to exterminate all the Boxtrolls to gain social status. Eggs, voiced by Isaac Hempstead Wright, must team up with Winnie, a young girl from the upper class, voiced by Elle Fanning, to save his Boxtroll family and reveal Snatcher's wicked plans. The animation in The Boxtrolls is fantastic, with a unique and whimsical design. The characters are expressive, and the world of Cheesebridge is richly detailed. However, the story can feel a bit convoluted, and the themes aren't as clearly defined as in Laika's stronger films. Archibald Snatcher, voiced by Ben Kingsley, is a memorable villain, but his motivations sometimes feel inconsistent. Despite its flaws, The Boxtrolls has plenty to offer. The Boxtrolls themselves are endearing, and the movie is full of creative visual gags. The film also touches on themes of prejudice and acceptance, although these ideas are not as deeply explored as in other Laika movies. Overall, The Boxtrolls is a fun and imaginative movie that's worth watching for its unique visuals and quirky characters. While it may not be Laika's most profound work, it's still a delightful experience that showcases the studio's creativity and technical skill.

4. Wildwood (TBA)

Wildwood is an upcoming animated fantasy film directed by Travis Knight and based on the novel of the same name by Colin Meloy. As Laika's sixth feature film, it continues the studio's tradition of blending stop-motion animation with compelling storytelling. While specific plot details are still under wraps, the narrative is expected to revolve around Prue McKeel, a young girl who ventures into the mysterious and enchanted Wildwood forest to rescue her younger brother, Mac. This forest, located on the outskirts of Portland, Oregon, is teeming with magical creatures, warring factions, and long-lost secrets. The film promises to deliver Laika's signature visual flair, combining intricate stop-motion animation with cutting-edge technology to bring the lush and perilous Wildwood to life. The voice cast includes big names such as Carey Mulligan, Mahershala Ali, Peyton Elizabeth Lee, and Jacob Tremblay, adding further anticipation for the project. Given Laika's track record of producing thought-provoking and visually stunning films, Wildwood has the potential to be another standout in their filmography. The source material is rich with lore and complex characters, offering ample opportunity for Laika to explore themes of family, courage, and the power of nature. While it's impossible to definitively rank Wildwood without seeing the finished product, the combination of a strong story, talented cast, and Laika's unparalleled animation expertise suggests that it will be a noteworthy addition to their collection. Fans of fantasy and stop-motion animation should definitely keep an eye on this one. Based on Laika's history, Wildwood has the potential to be a critical and commercial success, further solidifying the studio's reputation as a leader in animated storytelling.

3. ParaNorman (2012)

Coming in at number three, we have ParaNorman from 2012. This movie is a brilliant blend of horror and heart, telling the story of Norman Babcock, a young boy who can see and communicate with ghosts. Norman lives in the town of Blithe Hollow, which is preparing to celebrate its history of being haunted by a witch. When an ancient curse threatens to destroy the town, Norman must use his unique abilities to save everyone. ParaNorman stands out for its bold storytelling and its willingness to tackle complex themes. The animation is superb, with incredibly expressive character designs and spooky, atmospheric environments. The voice acting is also top-notch, with Kodi Smit-McPhee as Norman and Anna Kendrick as his supportive older sister, Courtney. What makes ParaNorman truly special is its exploration of fear, prejudice, and the importance of understanding those who are different. The movie challenges stereotypes and promotes empathy, making it a powerful and relevant story. The plot twists are unexpected, and the climax is both thrilling and emotionally satisfying. While ParaNorman has moments of genuine scares, it never loses sight of its heart. The characters are well-developed, and their relationships feel authentic. The movie's message about overcoming fear and embracing your true self is particularly resonant. ParaNorman is a must-see for fans of animation and horror, and it's a great example of Laika's ability to create movies that are both entertaining and thought-provoking. Its unique blend of genres and its strong emotional core make it one of Laika's most memorable films.

2. Coraline (2009)

Taking the second spot is Coraline, released in 2009. This movie is a dark and imaginative fairy tale that has captivated audiences of all ages. Coraline tells the story of a young girl who discovers a secret door in her new home, leading to an alternate world that seems perfect at first. However, she soon realizes that this other world hides a sinister secret, and she must fight to save her real family and herself. The animation in Coraline is breathtaking, with intricate sets and incredibly detailed character designs. The movie is visually stunning, and its use of color and light creates a mesmerizing and unsettling atmosphere. Dakota Fanning voices Coraline with a perfect mix of curiosity and determination, and the supporting cast is equally excellent. What makes Coraline so effective is its ability to create a sense of unease and dread. The other world seems idyllic at first, but it gradually becomes more and more disturbing as Coraline uncovers its true nature. The movie explores themes of identity, belonging, and the importance of appreciating what you have. Coraline is a masterclass in stop-motion animation and storytelling. Its dark and imaginative story, combined with its stunning visuals, make it a truly unforgettable movie. It's a testament to Laika's ability to create films that are both entertaining and emotionally resonant, and it remains one of their most beloved and critically acclaimed works. The film's impact on popular culture is undeniable, and it continues to inspire artists and filmmakers today. Coraline is a must-watch for anyone who loves animation, fantasy, or just a good, spooky story.

1. Kubo and the Two Strings (2016)

And finally, at the top of our list is Kubo and the Two Strings, which came out in 2016. This movie is a masterpiece of stop-motion animation and a beautiful, heart-wrenching story. Kubo and the Two Strings tells the story of Kubo, a young boy with magical powers who must embark on a quest to find a set of enchanted armor and defeat his evil relatives. Along the way, he is joined by Monkey, a fierce protector, and Beetle, a samurai warrior with amnesia. The animation in Kubo and the Two Strings is simply stunning. The movie is visually breathtaking, with incredibly detailed sets and characters. The action sequences are dynamic and exciting, and the emotional moments are handled with grace and sensitivity. Art Parkinson voices Kubo with a perfect blend of strength and vulnerability, and the supporting cast, including Charlize Theron as Monkey and Matthew McConaughey as Beetle, is equally excellent. What sets Kubo and the Two Strings apart is its powerful story about family, loss, and the importance of storytelling. The movie is deeply moving, and it explores themes of grief and resilience in a way that is both honest and profound. The film's use of Japanese folklore and mythology adds depth and richness to the story. Kubo and the Two Strings is a cinematic achievement that showcases the full potential of stop-motion animation. Its stunning visuals, compelling story, and memorable characters make it a truly unforgettable movie. It's a testament to Laika's artistic vision and their commitment to creating films that are both entertaining and meaningful. If you haven't seen Kubo and the Two Strings yet, you're missing out on one of the best animated movies of all time. This film solidifies Laika's place as a leader in the world of animation, proving that they are capable of creating stories that are both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. Kubo earns its place as the best Laika film, with its blend of adventure, heart, and breathtaking animation.

So there you have it! My ranking of Laika's movies. Each one is a testament to the studio's incredible artistry and storytelling ability. Whether you agree with my ranking or not, I think we can all agree that Laika is a studio that consistently delivers quality and innovation. Happy watching!