The Iron Giant and 3 Other Most Heartbreaking Animated Movies for the Whole Family
These animations can melt even the most steadfast hearts, ranging from cult anime to modern animation.
Animated movies are often seen as light and cheerful entertainment for the whole family. However, behind their bright colors and funny characters, they can convey a touching message that will bring tears to your eyes.
1. Soul, 2020
The main character of Pixar's Soul is Joe Gardner, a jazz musician who wants to perform on a big stage at least once in his life. Unfortunately, his plans are not meant to be.
After successfully auditioning for a jazz band, Joe accidentally falls into an open manhole and dies. He finds himself in the afterlife but desperately tries to escape. With the help of a guide named Soul 22, Joe returns to Earth and attempts to make his dream come true.
2. The Iron Giant, 1999
The protagonist is a nine-year-old boy named Hogarth Hughes who discovers a huge metal alien robot in the forest.
Despite his fear, Hogarth is curious and quickly finds a common language with the stranger, calling him the Iron Giant. Despite his size and strength, the robot turns out to be good-natured and timid.
He learns quickly and becomes fascinated by human culture. Unfortunately, the Iron Giant attracts the attention of the government, who see him as a weapon of mass destruction.
3. Grave of the Fireflies, 1988
Grave of the Fireflies is a touching animated film about two Japanese orphans, Setsuko and Seita, who try to survive during World War II.
After Kobe is bombed, their home is destroyed and they are forced to live in an abandoned bomb shelter. Despite the harsh conditions, Setsuko remains a gentle and carefree girl.
Her older brother courageously takes care of her and tries desperately to provide for her. Against the backdrop of the horrors of war, these two innocent children must find their place in a world gone mad.
4. Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, 1984
The plot takes place in an alternative future. One thousand years after a devastating war, the planet has turned into a poisonous forest and humanity is forced to live in small, isolated kingdoms.
The main character is Nausicaä, a young princess born in the Valley of the Wind. Nausicaä is gifted with the ability to communicate with giant insects.
After a neighboring kingdom invades her homeland, she leaves the Valley and enters the depths of the forest, hoping to find a way out of the difficult situation. She tries to determine if people can coexist peacefully with the forest's inhabitants.