With movies like Toy Story, Up and Cars, Pixar has become one of the most respected names in the film industry, and they have created some of the most highly regarded animated films. Great family films with gorgeous animation, endearing characters and a lot of heart are Pixar's specialty. Here is a list of Pixar's celebrated family films (and of course the famous movie shorts):
1. Brave (2012)
In theaters June 22, 2012, Brave is set in the rugged Scottish Highlands and boasts the first female lead character in a Pixar film. Check out photos from Brave and find out more about the characters.
2. Cars 2 and Cars (2011, 2006)
Cars brings viewers to the iconic town of Radiator Springs when big time racer Lightning McQueen gets stuck in the small town. The cars have a lot of character and a lot to learn. The laid back life is left in the dust with Cars 2, though, when the characters get caught up in a high speed world wide race and, inadvertently, international espionage. (Rated G)
3. Toy Story 3, Toy Story 2, and Toy Story (2010, 1999, 1995)
It's not often that a sequel is as good as or better than the original movie, especially when the original movie is a classic. Toy Story and Toy Story 2 delighted audiences, both adults and kids alike. Then, Toy Story 3 surprised us with a thrilling and touching animated adventure that, amazingly, carried on the story of everyone's favorite anthropomorphized toys with a third movie that was familiar, but every bit as fresh and exciting as the beloved original. (All three Toy Story movies are rated G)
4. UP (2009)
78-year-old balloon salesman Carl Fredricksen is pushed beyond his limit determines to live out a lifelong dream he and his late wife had cherished. Carl ties thousands of balloons to his house and lifts off toward Paradise Falls, South America. However, Carl doesn't realize that he has a stowaway -- an 8-year-old Wilderness Explorer named Russell. The two end up on an unbelievable adventure that changes their lives and forges a new friendship. (PG)
5. WALL-E (2008)
WALL-E has been compacting the trash on Earth for years--long after the humans who trashed the planet in the first place left to live in their luxurious spaceship, and the other robots were turned off or ceased to function. But, WALL-E has gotten a little bit lonely. That is until an Extra-terrestrial Vegetation Evaluator robot, EVE, comes to earth and brings meaning to WALL-E's life. As events unfold, WALL-E is also able to bring meaning to the lives of many others. (Rated G)
6. Ratatouille (2007)
Prepare to be transported to the streets Paris and blown away by animation that is magnifique with Ratatouille. The story about an endearing rat whose greatest dream is be a chef is both unique and interesting. Who would have ever thought the idea of rats cooking dinner for a restaurant full of people could be so appetizing? (Rated G)
7. The Incredibles (2004)
In an age of frivolous law suits and litigation-happy people, it's no surprise that the superheroes of the city had to go underground. Mr. Incredible and Elastigirl are now simply Bob Parr and his wife, Helen. They have three children: Dash, who hates to hide his super speed powers; shy Violet, who can disappear and create force fields, and little Jack-Jack, the baby who has not yet exhibited super ability. When a secret government project requires Mr. Incredible to don his super here suit once again, he jumps at the chance. But, things are not all they seem, and he winds up in a very sticky situation which will require the help of his family and friends. (Rated PG)
8. Finding Nemo (2003)
The greatest animated under the sea adventure ever made, Finding Nemo takes viewers on a tumultuous tour of the ocean from the viewpoint of a frantic clown fish who has lost his son. His quest to find Nemo tears at the heartstrings, and his discovery that Nemo is becoming an independent kid who needs a little room to roam is something all parents can identify with. (Rated G)
9. Monsters Inc. (2001)
Big, furry monsters are the main characters in this Pixar favorite. Audiences scream with delight as a large monster named Sulley and his best friend figure out what to do with a 2-year-old human girl they call "Boo." The movie reveals that monsters are not the scary creatures they are made out to be, and that monster hiding under your bed is probably a funny sort of fellow just trying to make a living. (Rated G)
10. A Bug's Life (1998)
Ever wondered what it's like to be an ant? I think just about everyone has. This movie from the point of view of a tiny bug is whimsical and fun, and the Blu-ray contains an insightful bonus feature that shows how stories can change drastically over the course of making a film. Also included is the classic short "Walt Disney Symphony: The Grasshopper and the Ants." (Rated G)
11. Pixar Shorts Vol. 1
Every Pixar movie is released with a short film that gets audiences laughing with a little pre-feature movie surprise. The short that released with each film is included on it's Blu-ray as part of the special features, but this compilation puts them all in one easy place along with other shorts, the latest one having been released in 2007.













