Best Animated TV Shows of the 2020s, So Far

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As a connoisseur of animated television with over three decades of viewing under my belt, I must say that the current state of animation is truly remarkable! The shows listed here are a testament to the creativity, talent, and vision of their creators. From the imaginative worlds of “The Owl House” and “Arcane” to the thought-provoking alternate realities explored in “What If…?” and the thrilling reimagining of familiar Marvel stories in “What If…?”, it’s clear that animation has come a long way since my childhood.

Since the beginning of the 1900s, cartoons have been a source of entertainment for many. Over time, this classic form of animation has undergone remarkable changes. In the current decade, we find that animation has reached its peak, offering some of the most inventive, heartwarming, emotionally resonant, and thought-provoking animated series ever shown on television screens.

In recent times, and especially over the last four years, there’s been a significant revival of animated series tailored for adults. These shows are now on par with top-notch live-action dramas in terms of depth and quality. From incisive social commentary to darkly amusing themes, animation has emerged as a potent medium for storytelling in the 2020s.

Of course, the superhero genre continues to hang out with the new generation of animated auteurs, and shows like Invincible remain as popular as Arcane, a breathtaking reimagining of the League of Legends universe. But the audiences don’t seem to complain as long as each story is equal parts complex and beautiful, and successfully reels them in with its stunning narrative. The 10 animated TV shows on the list are the best the 2020s have had to offer, so far.

10
‘The Legend of Vox Machina’ (2022 – Present)

In simple terms, “The Legend of Vox Machina” is a series inspired by the well-known Dungeons & Dragons web show “Critical Role”. This story chronicles the escapades of an eclectic band of heroes called Vox Machina in the magical realm of Exandria. The narrative opens with their mission to rescue Tal’Dorei from a powerful dragon, leading them through dangerous political intrigue, culminating in the formation of indestructible friendships among the heroic group.

Epic Fantasy with a Humorous Twist

The animated series swept through the fantasy genre, winning over viewers with its offbeat charm and spellbinding animation. It skillfully combines grand storytelling and comedic elements, making the expansive world of Exandria appealing to a wide range of audiences. The characters interact brilliantly, and their battles are thrilling. Each season introduces a fresh, captivating plotline, solidifying its status as essential viewing.

9
‘The Wonderful World of Mickey Mouse’ (2020)

In the realm of animated entertainment, only a select few characters have the ability to evoke feelings of nostalgia and remind us of our childhood days. Among these, Mickey Mouse stands out as Disney’s cherished emblem, leading the pack. Following in the footsteps of the Emmy Award-winning Mickey Mouse shorts by animator Paul Rudish from 2013, The Marvelous Adventures of Mickey Mouse is an animated series that brings Mickey Mouse and his companions such as Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy, and more into exciting and laugh-out-loud scenarios.

Testament to Mickey Mouse’s Timeless Appeal

Each episode in the animated series “The Wonderful World of Mickey Mouse” stands independently as a tale, highlighting the endearing charm and wit of Disney’s legendary characters, all while infusing fresh, contemporary elements. The original shorts were so well-crafted and innovative that this new series has been able to leverage their success, creating equally timeless stories brimming with nostalgic nods and uplifting themes.

8
‘Scott Pilgrim Takes Off’ (2023)

In a fresh take on both Bryan Lee O’Malley’s Scott Pilgrim comic series and the 2010 film version, an animated adventure titled “Scott Pilgrim Embarks On A New Journey” continues the tale of Scott Pilgrim, a charming slacker-turned-musician in an indie band, who encounters love with the intriguing Ramona Flowers, a delivery girl with a captivating past. The story takes an unexpected turn as Scott Pilgrim initially appears to have perished at the start of the series, leading Ramona to delve into the enigma surrounding his vanishing act.

A Winning Transition to Animation

In a fresh, distinctive take on the source material, Scott Pilgrim Takes Flight captures the vibrant spirit and quirky appeal of its characters in an entertaining manner. The show boasts the original cast from the 2010 film Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, with Michael Cera, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Satya Bhabha, Chris Evans, and more lending their voices to breathe life into their respective roles. The animation is top-notch, and there’s a generous helping of self-referential humor to keep viewers engaged from start to finish.

7
‘X-Men ’97’ (2024 – Present)

The X-Men boast a rich history of on-screen adaptations, ranging from their initial success as one of Marvel’s top hero teams to periods of less visibility. However, they have consistently managed to stand out in the superhero genre. The X-Men ’97 is a reboot of the beloved 1990s animated series, X-Men: The Animated Series, and it carries forward the saga of the X-Men as they safeguard both humans and mutants, encounter unforeseen challenges, and counter numerous threats.

A Nostalgic Return to the Iconic ’90s

Continuing from where the original animated series ended, X-Men ’97 incorporates numerous nods to the past. It not only rekindles the excitement but also explores the lives of mutants and their ongoing fight for recognition and justice in a way that appeals to contemporary viewers. The animation by Studio Mir and Tiger Animation updates the classic style, while the intense battles and political overtones are what make it deserving of acclaim.

6
‘Adventure Time: Fionna and Cake’ (2023)

Over eight seasons, the show Adventure Time consistently thrived on Cartoon Network, earning it no less than eight Primetime Emmy Awards. Now, with the same enchantment, we have a spin-off titled Adventure Time: Fionna and Cake, which centers around Finn and Jake’s counterparts – Fionna and Cake. In an universe devoid of magic, this series follows Fionna and her feline companion Cake as they navigate their everyday life, yearning for a world filled with magic.

A Delightful Spin on a Beloved Classic

An innovative and empowering reimagining of the classic cartoon, “Adventure Time: Fionna and Cake,” expands the Adventure Time universe with vibrant, engaging, and awe-inspiring storytelling. Though relatively new, it has swiftly garnered a following for its witty dialogues and heartwarming narrative at its core. With a 100% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, critics have praised it as one of the “most emotionally mature” additions to the franchise.

5
‘Scavengers Reign’ (2023)

Originating from Joseph Bennett and Charles Huettner for Max, Scavengers Reign appears to have slipped past many of our attentions, yet it merits a place on any list worth mentioning. The narrative kicks off with an interstellar freighter named Demeter 227 crashing onto the extraterrestrial planet Vesta, leaving its passengers stranded. Over time, these castaways split into various groups, delving into the planet’s enigmas before ultimately reuniting.

Brutal but Beautiful Sci-Fi Saga

Scavengers Rule delves into themes of survival, human avarice, and the unique connections that develop among individuals sharing the same predicament. It is distinguished by its gripping plotline, evocative animation style, and captivating voice acting from Sunita Mani and Alia Shawkat. Despite being terminated after only one season, its perfect 100% Rotten Tomatoes rating, imaginative sci-fi concept, and thoughtful storytelling earn it the title of the most innovative science fiction production of the year.

4
‘Invincible’ (2021 – Present)

Hailing from the minds of Robert Kirkman, Cory Walker, and Ryan Ottley, Invincible is a story set in a world where superheroes have become commonplace. The narrative revolves around Mark Grayson, a teenage boy who acquires superpowers from his powerful superhero father, Omni-Man. As Mark grapples with his newfound abilities, he uncovers his father’s mysterious and morally ambiguous side.

Subverts the Very Tropes That Define the Genre

In “Invincible,” as Mark struggles with his fresh abilities and the heavy burden of being a member of an extraordinary lineage, audiences are swept along on an exhilarating journey filled with action of monumental scale and a personal growth narrative that strikes a chord. The series has garnered critical acclaim for its mature storytelling, outstanding voice acting (featuring Steven Yeun, Sandra Oh, and J. K. Simmons), and unexpected plot turns.

3
‘The Owl House’ (2020 – 2023)

Reminiscent of Gravity Falls, The Owl House is created and run by Dana Terrace, a former storyboard artist for the show. This animated series follows Luz Noceda, a teenager who unintentionally opens a portal to a mystical land called the Boiling Isles. Here, she meets Eda Clawthorne, a rebellious witch, and her enchanting demon companion King. With aspirations of becoming a witch herself, Luz decides to work as Eda’s apprentice in this magical realm.

Visually Stunning and Imaginative Fantasy

The animated series, “The Owl House,” crafted by Terrace, has become an adored spectacle, resonating with both young viewers and adults alike. It’s brimming with unbridled creativity, boasting engaging characters, a witty script that’s both comical and dark, and the courage to address heavy topics with sensitivity. Notably, this series also champions LGBTQ+ representation and is among the pioneering Disney productions featuring an animated same-sex couple. Critics have hailed it as exceptional, giving it a perfect 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

2
‘What If…?’ (2021 – Present)

In 2021, as the Marvel Cinematic Universe continued to grow at a rapid pace, a fresh territory was unveiled in the shape of an animated series that made the impossible possible. What If…? delved into alternate realities set within the MCU. Each episode revisited pivotal moments from the past and presented surprising twists on well-known tales, such as Peggy Carter becoming the First Avenger, Star Lord going against the Avengers, Ultron triumphing, among others.

Reframes the Very Foundations of the MCU

As a die-hard Marvel fan, I can’t help but get lost in the intriguing web of possibilities that What If…? presents. This series takes well-known Marvel events and twists them into unexpected scenarios that spark deep thoughts. The Watcher (voiced by Jeffrey Wright), a celestial observer who never interferes, guides us through these alternate realities, making for an enthralling journey of “what could have been” in the Marvel universe.

1
‘Arcane’ (2021 – Present)

As a dedicated cinephile with a soft spot for video game universes, I’d like to share my excitement about “Arcane,” an animated series that delves into the formative years of two legendary characters from Riot Games’ League of Legends: Vi and Jinx. This captivating tale unfolds in the dual cities of Piltover and Zaun, where these iconic champions find themselves on opposing sides of a growing conflict. As the harmony between the utopian paradise and the downtrodden wavers, the bond between Vi and Jinx is stretched to its limits.

An Emotionally Gripping Animated Masterpiece

The popularity of Arcane, stemming from its origins in a widely acclaimed video game series, carries a heavy burden of anticipation. However, it surpasses all expectations by every measure. It has become a cultural sensation, characterized by its distinctive steampunk aesthetic and the blend of traditional animation with advanced technology. Critics laud its character development, stellar voice cast (led by Hailee Steinfeld as Vi and Ella Purnell as Jinx), emotional resonance, and immersive world-building. Despite airing for just two seasons, Arcane has solidified itself as one of the top animated TV shows of the 2020s.

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2024-12-26 04:32