Best Dark Fantasy Animated Movies You Need to Watch

With numerous subgenres that arise according to tone, topics, and storytelling components, the fantasy genre is immensely varied.  Dark fantasy is one increasingly popular subgenre, which is characterized by elements of horror, a grounded and occasionally dismal atmosphere, and a more limited use of magic.  In contrast to the fanciful aspect of fairy tale-inspired or high fantasy fiction, these films frequently address serious issues and feature strong or scary imagery.  

Dark fantasy is less prevalent in animated movies since animation is still mostly seen as a kid-friendly medium.  When these movies do come out, though, they carve out a unique niche by providing viewers with a more intense and sinister interpretation of magical worlds.  They can be unexpectedly intense, even for younger audiences, as they explore complex, thought-provoking subjects and put their characters in dangerous circumstances.  Based on their storytelling, graphics, and the potent concepts they portray in their eerie yet engrossing plots, the top dark fantasy animated films are highlighted in this list.

‘Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio’ (2022)

‘Coraline’ (2009)

‘The Nightmare Before Christmas’ (1993)

‘The Secret of NIMH’ (1982)

‘ParaNorman’ (2012)

‘The Last Unicorn’ (1982)

‘Corpse Bride’ (2005)

‘Fire and Ice’ (1983)

‘Wizards’ (1977)

‘Wendell & Wild’ (2022)

–Farheen Ali