Here are some ways to consider "popularity" and the movies that rank highly in each category:
* By Box Office Gross:
* Frozen II (2019) is currently the highest-grossing animated film worldwide, taking in over $1.45 billion.
* The Lion King (2019), a live-action remake, is second, but still heavily animated, earning over $1.65 billion.
* By Critical Acclaim:
* Spirited Away (2001) by Studio Ghibli is widely considered one of the greatest animated films ever made, winning the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and many other awards.
* By Cultural Impact:
* Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937) is considered the first full-length animated film and had a huge impact on the industry.
* The Lion King (1994) and Toy Story (1995) are also often mentioned for their cultural influence.
* By Popularity Among Children:
* Frozen (2013) and its sequel have been phenomenally popular with children, influencing fashion, toys, and even language.
* By Fan Base and Longevity:
* Pokémon: The First Movie (1998) remains popular with fans of the franchise, and continues to be shown in theaters today.
* By Global Reach:
* My Neighbor Totoro (1988) has a dedicated international fanbase and is considered a classic by many.
Ultimately, the "most popular" animated movie depends on what you are looking for. There's no single answer that satisfies all criteria.