Introduction
The 80s was a golden era for animated films, with classics like “The Little Mermaid” and “The Lion King” capturing the hearts of audiences worldwide. However, there were also many hidden gems that have been overshadowed by these popular titles. In this article, we will rediscover some forgotten animated films from the 80s that deserve recognition.
The Secret of NIMH (1982)
Directed by Don Bluth, “The Secret of NIMH” is a dark and enchanting tale based on the book “Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH” by Robert C. O’Brien. The film follows the journey of Mrs. Brisby, a widowed mouse, as she seeks the help of a group of intelligent rats to save her family’s home. With its stunning animation and mature themes, “The Secret of NIMH” is a hidden gem that deserves more recognition.
The Secret of NIMH stands out for its beautiful hand-drawn animation and captivating storytelling. The film tackles complex themes such as sacrifice, bravery, and the power of intelligence. It showcases the talent of Don Bluth, who was known for his ability to create emotionally resonant animated films.
Despite receiving critical acclaim upon its release, “The Secret of NIMH” did not achieve the same level of commercial success as some of its contemporaries. However, it has gained a cult following over the years and is now recognized as a classic of 80s animation.
The Last Unicorn (1982)
Based on the novel by Peter S. Beagle, “The Last Unicorn” is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film. The story follows a unicorn who embarks on a quest to find others of her kind, encountering various characters along the way. With its beautiful hand-drawn animation and heartfelt storytelling, “The Last Unicorn” is a forgotten gem that deserves to be rediscovered.
“The Last Unicorn” is a magical and enchanting film that explores themes of love, loss, and the search for identity. It features a stellar voice cast, including Mia Farrow, Jeff Bridges, and Alan Arkin, who bring the characters to life with their performances.
Despite its initial success, “The Last Unicorn” has faded into obscurity over the years. However, it remains a beloved film among fans of fantasy and animation, and its timeless themes continue to resonate with audiences today.
Watership Down (1978)
Although released in 1978, “Watership Down” gained popularity in the 80s and remains a beloved animated film from that era. Based on the novel by Richard Adams, the film tells the story of a group of rabbits who embark on a journey to find a new home. Despite its dark and mature themes, “Watership Down” captivates audiences with its beautiful animation and compelling narrative.
“Watership Down” is a powerful and thought-provoking film that explores themes of survival, friendship, and the destructive nature of humanity. It features stunning hand-drawn animation and a hauntingly beautiful score by Angela Morley.
Despite its critical acclaim and enduring popularity, “Watership Down” is often overlooked when discussing animated films from the 80s. However, its impact on the genre cannot be denied, and it continues to be celebrated by fans and critics alike.
The Plague Dogs (1982)
From the same director as “Watership Down,” “The Plague Dogs” is another forgotten gem from the 80s. This animated film follows the harrowing journey of two dogs who escape from a research laboratory and try to survive in the wild. With its thought-provoking themes and realistic animation, “The Plague Dogs” is a hidden gem that deserves more recognition.
“The Plague Dogs” is a deeply emotional and poignant film that explores themes of animal cruelty, friendship, and the human-animal bond. It tackles complex ethical questions and challenges the viewer to reflect on their own relationship with animals.
Due to its mature content and dark tone, “The Plague Dogs” received limited distribution and was not widely seen upon its release. However, it has since gained a cult following and is recognized as a powerful and thought-provoking animated film.
Rock & Rule (1983)
“Rock & Rule” is a unique and visually stunning animated film that combines rock music with animation. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, the film follows a rock band’s quest to summon a demon through music. With its memorable soundtrack and groundbreaking animation, “Rock & Rule” is a forgotten gem that deserves to be rediscovered.
“Rock & Rule” is a visually stunning film that pushes the boundaries of traditional animation. It features a unique blend of hand-drawn and computer-generated imagery, creating a mesmerizing and immersive experience for the viewer.
Despite its innovative animation and memorable soundtrack, “Rock & Rule” was a commercial failure upon its release. However, it has since gained a cult following and is celebrated for its artistic achievements and boundary-pushing storytelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why were these films forgotten?
These films were overshadowed by more popular and commercially successful animated films of the 80s. They may have also faced limited distribution or marketing, leading to a lack of awareness among audiences.
2. Are these films suitable for children?
While some of these films may have been marketed towards children, they often tackle mature themes and may contain darker elements. Parents should exercise discretion and consider the age appropriateness of each film.
3. Where can I watch these films?
These films may be available for streaming on platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, or Disney+. Alternatively, you can check your local video rental stores or online marketplaces to purchase or rent physical copies of the films.
Conclusion
The 80s was a decade filled with animated films that have left a lasting impact on the industry. While some movies from that era have become household names, there are many hidden gems that have been forgotten over time. From “The Secret of NIMH” to “Rock & Rule,” these films deserve a second look for their unique storytelling, stunning animation, and memorable characters. So, grab some popcorn and take a trip down memory lane by rediscovering these forgotten animated gems of the 80s.