On January 23 the Academy Award nominations were announced. In honor of the awards, this year I’m looking at some of the films in nominated fields. Today, it’s the Best Animated Feature nominees. I have them ranked in ascending order based on my preference.

No. 5: Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl
About: We’ve seen many adventures from Wallace and Gromit in the past. They’ve been making shorts and features since 1989. This one has its moments and has a clever story at times. It will likely appeal to long-time fans. While I appreciate the craft, it was my least favorite of this year’s nominees.

No. 4: Memoir of a Snail
About: This one has a similar Claymation style as Wallace & Gromit but tells a different story. It’s an emotional tale of two twins separated for years and the path their lives take. It is emotional at times and creative, but it didn’t always resonate strongly with me. But it does feel original.

No. 3: Flow
About: This Latvian animated feature is dialogue free. It’s also nominated among International Features, perhaps giving it an edge in this category. I loved the journey we take with this cat and other creatures. It’s surprisingly engaging and emotional, and certainly one of the most creative entries in this year’s race.

No. 2: The Wild Robot
About: It’s hard for me to choose between these last two as they are both beautiful. This movie was incredibly emotional, featuring a great lead performance from Lupita Nyong’o and some incredible animation. The story is beautiful, too. I’d be pleased if this film won.

No. 1: Inside Out 2
About: This was my favorite animated feature in 2024, and one of my favorite films of the year. It’s not just a Pixar thing because the first film is one, I enjoy but didn’t love. But I loved what they did with this film and this story. It’s beautiful and moving and would be a worthy Oscar winner.

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.