We’re into the summer season, and people will soon have more time on their hands. We’re also getting the latest release from Pixar tomorrow! Earlier this year we got three films re-released in theaters that were previously home releases, too. It’s a big year for Pixar. So, to honor the studio, I’m looking at my Top 20 Pixar films. Previously I covered No. 20 to No. 11, today it’s my Top 10. Films appear in ascending order!

No. 10: Up (2009)
About: I both love this film and find it frustrating. The opening sequence here is possibly the greatest animated sequence I’ve ever seen. If it stopped with the short and the story of Carl and Ellie, it might be my favorite animated film ever. It doesn’t, though. And the rest of this film, while fine, doesn’t live up to that opening for me.

No. 9: Toy Story 2 (1999)
About: This follow-up to the original is a lot of fun. It expands the world and the characters, telling a new story that’s engaging. And despite its ranking and how much I enjoy it, it’s only the third best film in the franchise!

No. 8: Inside Out (2015)
About: This look at emotions is raw and engaging. We’re actually getting a sequel releasing tomorrow. I like the way this story plays out and the emotional depth. This was one of the bigger surprises for me among Pixar films.

No. 7: Lightyear (2022)
About: This spin-off of the Toy Story franchise tells the story of the real Buzz Lightyear. I understand it didn’t work for everyone, but I enjoyed this origin story. I was particularly taken with the emotions in this journey. This is an under-rated Pixar film.

No. 6: Elemental (2023)
About: This was the big Pixar release from last summer, and it was a banger. It was also a deeply emotional journey. I loved this film and I wish that more people had seen it. If you haven’t checked it out, it’s worth finding.

No. 5: Toy Story (1995)
About: One of the earliest Pixar films, and a foundational franchise, I love this origin story. Tom Hanks and Tim Allen are great here, too. This film was a part of my childhood, and it’s a franchise that remains near and dear to my heart.

No. 4: The Incredibles (2004)
About: I love superhero stories, so this animated tale of a family of heroes really works for me. I enjoyed the sequel, but it’s the original that captured my heart. Loosely based on The Fantastic Four, this is a heck of a ride.

No. 3: Soul (2020)
About: This film got its release hurt by the Covid pandemic. But I remember the Christmas Day watch and really enjoying this story of a man who only learns to appreciate his life once it’s nearly taken away. This has humor and poignance. It’s a great Pixar film.

No. 2: Toy Story 3 (2010)
About: Pixar films work for audiences of all ages, but it’s truer for a select few. This one really works for all ages, offering a fun story for kids while diving into some deeper issues that will really hit adults in the feels. That was certainly true for me. I loved the depth of this story and the third act, which hits hard, emotionally.

No. 1: Coco (2017)
About: This was a beautiful film. The colors and the visual style are incredible. The characters and the story have great emotional resonance. And the music really captures your heart. This was an unexpected gem for me and has quickly become my favorite Pixar film, one I want to watch each Day of the Dead!

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.