Ranking The Pixar Movies After Coco

Okay, so, you and I are sitting on the couch, popcorn’s ready, and we’re about to embark on a mission of utmost importance: ranking Pixar movies. But not just any Pixar movies. We’re talking about the ones that dropped after the absolute masterpiece that is Coco. And let’s be real, ranking Coco itself is like trying to pick your favorite star in the sky – they’re all brilliant! But since we’ve gotta draw a line somewhere, Coco is our starting point. It’s our celestial benchmark. Our mariachi band of perfection. So, grab your comfy blanket, maybe a tissue (you know how Pixar gets us!), and let’s dive into the magical world of post-Coco Pixar goodness.

First off, a little disclaimer: this is purely my opinion. Your mileage may vary. If you passionately disagree with my ranking, that’s totally fine! It just means you have excellent taste, and we can bond over our shared love of all things animated. Maybe we can even have a friendly debate over coffee (or, you know, more popcorn). The important thing is that we’re all here for the magic, right? And let’s be honest, even the “lower-ranked” Pixar movies are still pretty darn fantastic. It’s like choosing your favorite flavor of ice cream when they’re all artisanal and made with unicorn tears – a tough but delicious dilemma.

Now, before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s just acknowledge that Pixar has this uncanny ability to tap into our deepest emotions. They can make us laugh until our sides hurt, cry until we’re a dehydrated mess, and then somehow, miraculously, make us feel hopeful and inspired all within the span of two hours. It’s a gift. A weird, wonderful, and totally tear-jerking gift.

The Contenders: A Post-Coco Lineup

So, who are our brave contenders? Since Coco came out in 2017, we’re looking at movies from 2018 onwards. This gives us a pretty solid list to work with. We've got everything from sequels we never knew we needed (but totally loved) to brand-new adventures that expanded the Pixar universe in exciting ways. Think of it as a Pixar reunion, and we’re the very important critics who get to decide who gets the gold star… or at least, the slightly shinier silver star.

It’s important to remember the context, too. Pixar, like all studios, has faced its share of challenges, but they’ve consistently delivered films that are not only visually stunning but also packed with heart. They’re the masters of making us think and feel, often without us even realizing it until the credits roll and we’re wiping our eyes.

Alright, deep breaths. Here we go. Prepare yourselves for some controversial opinions, maybe a bit of playful ribbing, and a whole lot of Pixar love. This is going to be fun!

The Ranking: From "Pretty Good" to "OMG, I Need a Hug!"

Let’s start with the ones that, while still good, didn’t quite hit those stratospheric heights for me personally. It’s like finding a really good sandwich when you were expecting a five-course meal – still delicious, just not the entire experience you were dreaming of.

Onward (2020)

Okay, Onward. This one is a bit of a divisive one, isn’t it? It’s got that classic Pixar charm, the buddy-comedy dynamic between Ian and Barley is chef’s kiss, and the world-building is pretty neat. Who doesn’t love a quest? But for me, it just didn’t quite grab me by the heartstrings in the same way some other Pixar films do. The emotional core was there, the father-son dynamic and brotherly love, but it felt a little… familiar? Maybe it was the suburban fantasy setting that felt a tad mundane. Still, the animation was gorgeous, and the idea of magic in the modern world is always appealing. It’s a solid flick, just not a game-changer.

I mean, who wouldn't want a dad to magically reappear for a day? That’s the dream, right? The movie taps into that yearning for connection and the bittersweet nature of loss. But the pacing sometimes felt a little slow for me, and the central conflict, while understandable, didn’t have that overwhelming sense of urgency that some of Pixar’s best do. It’s a good movie to watch on a cozy evening, but it’s not the one I’d instinctively reach for when I need a serious emotional punch.

Cars 3 (2017)

Wait, did Cars 3 come out after Coco? Technically, it was released in the same year, but it feels like a different era. Let’s just chalk it up to timeline shenanigans and include it for completeness. Look, I have a soft spot for Lightning McQueen. I grew up with these movies, and there’s a nostalgia factor there. Cars 3 was definitely a step up from Cars 2 (phew!). It explored themes of aging, legacy, and finding your place when the world is changing. It was more character-driven and had some genuinely touching moments.

But let’s be honest, it’s still Cars. It’s hard to top the sheer originality and emotional resonance of the first Cars. This one felt a bit more like a victory lap for Lightning, and while that’s nice, it didn’t quite offer the groundbreaking narrative that we’ve come to expect from Pixar’s absolute best. Still, Cruz Ramirez was a great addition, and the racing sequences were pretty exhilarating. It’s a decent sequel, but it’s not exactly reinventing the wheel (pun intended).

Lightyear (2022)

Ah, Lightyear. The movie that inspired the toy. Talk about meta! This was an interesting experiment, for sure. Visually, it’s stunning. The space exploration, the alien worlds – it’s all top-tier Pixar. And Chris Evans as Buzz? He’s got that earnest, heroic vibe down pat. The concept is cool, and the idea of time dilation and the emotional toll of being a space ranger is a fascinating one.

However… it felt a little disjointed. The story jumps around a bit, and while I appreciated the nods to the original Toy Story, I sometimes wished it had leaned more into its own unique narrative. It’s a perfectly fine sci-fi adventure, but it lacked that pure, distilled Pixar magic that makes you want to hug everyone you know. It’s a bit like a really, really good version of a movie you might see on a streaming service, but maybe not one that makes you sit in stunned silence during the credits. Still, points for ambition and those gorgeous space vistas!

Incredibles 2 (2018)

Okay, Incredibles 2. This was a big one! A sequel to one of the most beloved Pixar films ever. And it delivered! The action was incredible (duh), the humor was on point, and seeing Elastigirl take the spotlight was fantastic. Violet’s teenage angst, Dash’s super-speed mischief, Jack-Jack’s… well, Jack-Jack-ness – it was all there. The villain, Screenslaver, was also a pretty cool and relevant concept.

My only quibble, and it’s a minor one, is that it felt very much like a continuation of the first film rather than a totally new, groundbreaking story. It was more of the same excellent sauce, which is great, but maybe not quite the bold new flavor that some of Pixar’s standalones offer. Still, it’s a superhero flick done right, and it’s undeniably fun and rewatchable. Edna Mode’s return alone is worth the price of admission!

The exploration of gender roles and the media’s influence through Elastigirl’s storyline was also really well done. It showed that Pixar isn’t afraid to tackle relevant social commentary, even within a superhero narrative. And the scene with Jack-Jack battling the raccoon? Pure, unadulterated genius. You can’t ask for much more than that, really.

The Top Tier: Pixie Dust and Tears

Now we’re getting into the serious contenders. These are the films that have that extra sparkle, that emotional depth that makes you want to revisit them again and again. They’re the ones that leave a lasting impression, the ones you can’t stop thinking about weeks later. These are the films that make you believe in the power of storytelling.

Soul (2020)

Oh, Soul. This movie is a whole mood. It’s philosophical, it’s jazzy, and it’s absolutely beautiful. Joe Gardner’s journey, his passion for music, and his existential crisis – it’s all so relatable. The exploration of what it means to have a soul, to find your spark, and to appreciate the little things in life is profound. And that ending? chef’s kiss

The animation is breathtaking, especially the abstract representation of the Great Before. It’s a film that sparks conversations and makes you look at your own life with fresh eyes. It might not have the broad, universally accessible humor of some other Pixar films, but its quiet contemplation and heartfelt message are incredibly powerful. It’s the kind of movie that makes you feel a little bit wiser after watching it. Plus, jazz!

The visual metaphors in Soul are just genius. The concept of the “spark” and the journey to find it is handled with such delicacy and intelligence. And Jamie Foxx’s performance as Joe is just magnificent. He brings so much heart and nuance to the character. It’s a film that really stays with you, prompting reflection on purpose, passion, and the sheer joy of simply being alive.

Turning Red (2022)

Turning Red! What a breath of fresh air. This movie is pure joy and unapologetically embraces its themes of puberty, family, and finding your identity. Meilin Lee’s transformation into a giant red panda is such a clever metaphor for the awkward, confusing, and sometimes overwhelming process of growing up. The animation style is vibrant and energetic, perfectly capturing the 2000s era and the whirlwind of emotions Mei is experiencing.

The mother-daughter relationship is the absolute heart of this film, and it’s handled with such honesty and empathy. It’s messy, it’s complicated, and it’s incredibly real. The humor is spot-on, the music is catchy, and the ending is a beautiful celebration of embracing all parts of yourself. It’s a movie that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant. Plus, who doesn’t love a good boy band?

The way they depicted the hormonal surges and emotional outbursts as the panda transformation was so clever and hilarious. It’s a film that makes you laugh, cringe a little (in the best way), and ultimately feel a profound sense of understanding. It’s a testament to Pixar’s ability to tell stories that are both specific and universally relatable, and Turning Red does it with so much style.

Luca (2021)

Oh, Luca. This movie is like a warm hug on a summer day. Set in a charming Italian seaside town, it’s a story about friendship, acceptance, and stepping out of your comfort zone. The friendship between Luca and Alberto is the absolute core of the film, and it’s so pure and heartwarming. Their adventures, their fears, and their dreams are all depicted with such tenderness.

The animation is gorgeous, capturing the beauty of the Italian coast and the whimsical nature of the sea monsters. It’s a feel-good movie through and through, with just the right amount of emotional depth. It celebrates individuality and the courage it takes to be yourself, even when you’re afraid of what others might think. It’s simple, it’s sweet, and it leaves you with a genuine smile. Pasta, gelato, and sea monsters – what’s not to love?

The sheer visual beauty of Luca is enough to transport you to that idyllic Italian village. The vibrant colors, the charming architecture, and the playful animation of the sea monsters all come together to create a truly immersive experience. And the chemistry between Luca and Alberto is just palpable. Their journey of self-discovery and their unwavering loyalty to each other is what makes this film so incredibly special.

The Pinnacle: Tears of Joy, and Maybe Just Tears

And now, the moment of truth. The films that, in my humble opinion, stand head and shoulders above the rest in the post-Coco era. These are the ones that made us laugh, cry, and ponder the meaning of life, all while delivering unparalleled storytelling and breathtaking animation. These are the films that truly define what Pixar is all about.

Toy Story 4 (2019)

Okay, Toy Story 4. I know, I know, some people thought we didn’t need another one. But oh, were they wrong! This movie was a beautiful, emotional farewell to some of our most beloved characters. Woody’s journey to find his purpose, his growth beyond being just “Andy’s toy” – it was masterfully done. Forky was a hilarious and surprisingly insightful addition, and Gabby Gabby was a complex and ultimately sympathetic villain.

The animation was, as always, incredible. The detail in everything from the textures of the toys to the vibrant carnival setting was mind-blowing. But it was the emotional weight of the story, the exploration of what it means to be loved and to belong, that truly elevated this film. It was bittersweet, it was perfect, and it left me in a puddle of tears. A true testament to the enduring power of the Toy Story saga.

The scene with Woody and Bo Peep’s reunion and subsequent parting was gut-wrenching. It perfectly encapsulated the idea that sometimes, love means letting go. And the final shot of Woody walking off into the distance with Bo? Pure cinematic poetry. It was the perfect send-off for a character who has been with us for decades, reminding us that even our favorite toys have their own journeys and destinies.

Soul (2020) - A Re-evaluation

Wait, did I put Soul in the top tier and now I’m bringing it back? Yes. Because upon further reflection, and after letting the magic sink in, Soul deserves to be right up there at the very, very top. It’s a film that demands multiple viewings to truly appreciate its depth and nuance. The philosophical questions it poses about life, purpose, and joy are so masterfully interwoven into the narrative that they don’t feel preachy, but rather like genuine moments of profound realization.

The animation is not just beautiful; it's innovative and expressive, perfectly capturing the abstract concepts it explores. Joe Gardner's journey is a poignant reminder that sometimes, the greatest adventures are found in the mundane moments, in the simple act of living. It’s a film that nourishes the soul (pun intended, again!) and leaves you feeling more connected to the world and to yourself. It’s a quiet masterpiece that speaks volumes.

The interplay between Joe and 22 is absolutely golden. Their evolving dynamic, their shared moments of frustration and understanding, form the emotional backbone of the film. And the way the film portrays the “spark” – that intangible essence that makes life worth living – is incredibly moving. It’s a film that celebrates individuality, the beauty of everyday existence, and the profound impact of human connection. It’s a triumph of storytelling.

Inside Out 2 (2024)

Okay, okay, I know this one isn’t out yet. But based on the sheer brilliance of the first Inside Out, and the tantalizing glimpses we’ve had of the new emotions, my anticipation for this movie is so high, it deserves a special mention. If it lives up to even half of the first movie’s magic, it’s going to be incredible. The idea of introducing Anxiety, Envy, Ennui, and Embarrassment into Riley’s already complex emotional landscape? Pure genius!

The first Inside Out was a revelation. It took something as abstract as emotions and made them tangible, relatable, and utterly captivating. Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust were not just characters; they were representations of our own inner lives. The creativity and emotional intelligence on display were astounding. If Inside Out 2 can even come close to that level of insight and heartfelt storytelling, it’s a contender for the ages.

The way the original Inside Out broke down complex psychological concepts into a narrative that resonated with audiences of all ages was a masterclass. It showed us that our emotions, even the difficult ones, are valid and have a purpose. I’m so excited to see how they explore the new emotions and how they interact with the original crew. The potential for both hilarious chaos and profound emotional moments is immense. Here’s hoping it’s everything we dream of and more!

The Undisputed Champion (After Coco, of course!)

So, after much deliberation, a lot of rewatching (tough job, I know), and perhaps a few more tears than strictly necessary, I’m going to declare my number one Pixar movie after Coco. Drumroll, please…

Toy Story 4 (2019)

Yes, I’m sticking with it. Toy Story 4. It’s a film that managed to take a beloved franchise and give it a fresh, emotionally resonant conclusion that felt earned and deeply satisfying. Woody’s arc was perfect. The new characters, like Forky, were brilliant. And the visual spectacle was, as always, top-notch. It’s a film that perfectly balances humor, heart, and poignant storytelling. It’s a testament to the power of friendship, self-discovery, and the idea that it’s okay to find a new path, even when it’s scary. It’s a movie that made me laugh, cry, and ultimately feel a profound sense of hope for the future, both for the characters and for ourselves.

It’s a rare feat to conclude a story that has been a part of our lives for so long with such grace and impact. Toy Story 4 did just that. It honored the past while embracing the future, and in doing so, it delivered a truly unforgettable cinematic experience. It’s a movie that reminds us that no matter how old we get, or how much things change, the spirit of adventure and the bonds of love endure.

A Happy Ending for All of Us

There you have it! My completely subjective, utterly biased, and lovingly crafted ranking of Pixar movies released after the incredible Coco. Remember, this is all in good fun. Every single one of these movies is a testament to the incredible talent and artistry of the Pixar team. They have a way of tapping into our shared humanity, our joys, our sorrows, and our dreams, and weaving them into stories that entertain and inspire us.

So, whether your favorite is at the top of my list or near the bottom, the most important thing is that we’re all here, sharing in the magic of these incredible films. Pixar’s ability to connect with us on an emotional level is truly a gift, and each of these movies, in their own unique way, brings a little bit of wonder and heart into our lives. So go forth, rewatch your favorites, discover new ones, and let the magic of Pixar continue to fill your world with smiles and maybe just a few happy tears. After all, isn’t that what life’s all about? Finding those moments of pure, unadulterated joy, like a perfectly animated scene that makes you feel like you can conquer the world (or at least get through your to-do list with a little more pep in your step).