The 10 Best Animated Anthology TV Shows, Ranked

Animated shows can be some of the most creative shows on streaming and network television. They are often known for creativity in style, direction, and storytelling.which can be a breath of fresh air in the limited scope of live-action television, especially those in the anthology format.

Animated anthology series with a new cast of characters and plots with each new episode or season weren’t as common. However, in recent years, Animated anthology series have grown in popularity, with shows like Netflix’s I love death and robots and those that build on existing IP, such as Marvel… what if?. However, this episode-based storytelling format can prove challenging for some anthologies, which struggle to maintain viewers’ attention without a stable cast or unified plot. The best animated shows in an anthology format not only attract a stable fan base but also perform well critically for their uniqueness in the market.

10

Cake (2019–2021)

Created by FX

FX’s adult comedy anthology, Cakeis a whimsically entertaining complication of comedy sketches and short stories. This series features several different dark comedies, from animated to a mix of live-action elements. The short-lived show hasn’t won any awards yet and has an average audience score on IMDB and Rotten Tomatoes, but it’s a great casual watch for anyone looking to laugh.

The series features a number of notable performances from recognizable names like Natasha Lyonne and Finn Wittrock. Cake it’s also an exciting showcase of different animation styles. For example, several episodes feature a mix of live action, 2D cartoons, 3D animation, and claymation. Its themes cover hilariously relatable issues, like the need for self-care or experiencing social anxietymaking it a great animated show for adults.

9

Zootopia+ (2022)

Created by Byron Howard, Rich Moore, Jared Bush

Zootopia + is the adorable new series that is a spin-off of the hit film, Zootopia. This series follows several minor characters from the original film, but in the same timeline as the events of the original film. By doing this, fans are able to Recognize beloved movie moments with the addition of extra context from the perspectives of minor characters.

That The mini-anthology series is a great family watch, each ending with an important life lessonas well as the moralistic underbelly of the original film. From Fru Fru the shrew to Chief Bogo, minor characters receive more screen time than ever before. Zootopia+adding to the fan service element that fuels Zootopia +.

The simplicity of this anthology does not extend to the universe of Zootopia significantly, which may be why the series has yet to win any critics awards. Instead of, Zootopia + It’s a fun and light watch for those who want to return to the world of the original film.

8

Strange Planet (2019–2021)

Created by Nathan W. Pyle, Dan Harmon

Strange Planet is a delightful anthology series based on Nathan W. Pyle’s viral webcomic. Each episode of the series revolves around a cast of alien characters who must deal with relatable human situations, learning a significant lesson in the end. The relatively new series has a high audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, but no awards.

For those looking for a healthy watch, Strange Planet is a lighthearted anthology worth checking out, with its cute cast of alien characters and comic book-style animation. Its unique premise discusses themes of love and human connection in the least human place possible… an alien planet. Its subtle comedy makes it easy to watch for anyone looking for a low-maintenance anthology series. Not to mention, Strange Planet is produced by Dan Harmon (Community), and his collaboration with Nathan W. Pyle allows the show to remain faithful to the source material.

7

The Boys: Diabolical (2022)

Created by Eric Kripke, Evan Goldberg, Seth Rogen and Simon Racioppa

The boys: diabolical is a short anthology based on the hit television show, The boys. This cartoon has a little more comical appearance The boys universe than its live-action counterpart, with the comedic genius of minds like Seth Rogan and Evan Goldberg. Each episode tells the story of normal citizens who live among the superheroes of The boysas they are impacted by Vought technology and Homelander’s team.

The series won an Emmy and a high audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, which is no surprise considering the popularity of the live-action and the different animation styles of each episode. For fans who want to see more of the show, this is a happier but still distorted representation, with moments from the comics that don’t appear The boys. However, this series does not expand on the complexities of The boys much as other anthologies, but instead acts as a supplement for viewing alongside the main program.

6

The Chilling Truth (2018–2020)

Created by Vernon Chatman

The trembling truth is a shockingly terrifying anthology produced for Adult Swim. This claymation-animated anthology is a Surrealist collection of horror stories that examine the nightmares of the human psyche. The trembling truth thought-provoking episodes earned him critical praise and a nomination at Sundance.

This anthology is certainly not for everyone, but it captivates fans of the show, who appreciate it for its unique claymation style, frightening visuals, and crazy plots, making the viewer feel like they are witnessing a nightmare. In other words, The trembling truth is truly unique, but its exploration of dark comedy is undoubtedly original. The niche target of its audience may be one of the reasons for the short life of the animated series. In addition to each episode’s unique premise, the show features a star-studded cast of actors like Michael Cera, Janeane Garofalo, and Zach Pearlman.

5

The Entertainer (2003)

Created by Lana and Lily Wachowski

A classic of the genre, Wachowski’s 2003 anthology The Entertainer still remains. This anthology is built from The Matrix franchise and tells multiple stories about characters from its universe, expanding the digital world of The Matrix and its beginnings. This collection got high scores on IMDB and Rotten Tomatoes with stories from different creators and studios.

This lesser-known IP-based anthology is notable for several reasons. Mainly, the already mysterious world of the original franchise receives more canon connections through several episodes in Animatorwhich explore the creation of the Matrix and Neo’s future adventures with several characters who are still trapped in virtual reality. Like several other anthology series on the list, The Entertainer mixes several styles, mainly Japanese animation. Stunning animation artists such as Shinichiro Watanabe (Cowboy Bebop) make the cyber-punk world of this anthology captivating for viewers.

4

Infinite Train (2019–2021)

Created by Owen Dennis

Infinite Train is a Cartoon Network anthology that ran briefly for three years. The original story by Owen Dennis follows Tulip, a young girl who is transported to a post-apocalyptic world where she is trapped on an endless train with strange creatures/beings in each of its many universes. This highly imaginative series won best cartoon at the Cartoon Base Awards and achieved an impressive 100% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.

Although the series was short-livedThe unique worlds in each episode are fascinating for fans of the seriesas well as the captivating anchor character of Tulip, who travels to each different world. In addition to the atmospheric soundtrack and stunning visuals, the show is philosophical, delving into the psychological and emotional problems of Infinity Train main characters. In terms of anthologies, Infinite Train is an eccentric, hidden gem worth watching.

3

Visions of Star Wars (2021-)

Created by Lucasfilm Animation

Star Wars Visions is a great example of an anthology series that moves away from its signature style but at the same time honors George Lucas’ original vision. In this Lucasfilm anthology adaptation, Each episode features untold stories of characters from across the Star Wars galaxy, but from the perspective of studios from different cultures. Star Wars Visions It performed well with both fans and critics, earning an Emmy and a nomination.

What distinguishes Star Wars Visions Among other similar anthology spin-offs is its collaboration with major anime studios around the world. For example, major studios such as Aardman (Wallace and Gromit, Chicken Race) and production GI (Ghost in the Shell), create their unique spin on the animated Star Wars universe in their perspective episodes. Among its exciting additions to Star Wars canon and diverse animation styles, this anthology is a unique watch.

2

Marvel… what if? (2021–2024)

Created by AC Bradley

Marvel… what if? is one of the best examples of an anthology adaptation based on an existing IP. This series focuses on a different hero from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, changing their role in its canon to create new stories based on these beloved characters. For example, Captain America‘Peggy Carter’ is no longer Steve Rogers’ girlfriend, but Captain America himself.

This ambitious series performed well with critics, naturally, earning wins at the Emmys and Critics’ Choice Awards, and high scores on Rotten Tomatoes and IMDB. Because of And if? reliance on existing stories and characters, It’s no surprise that the series attracted fans of the studio who were eager to see familiar faces but defined entirely new alternative universes. Not to mention, this anthology brings back star-studded cast members from their live-action projects.

1

Love Death + Robots (2019 -)

Created by Tim Miller

This Netflix anthology debuted in 2019 and quickly caught the attention of fans and critics alike. I love death and robots features a set of stories based in dystopian worlds that examine deeper themes relating to society, human nature and technology. The science fiction series is one of the most critically acclaimed anthologieswith 5 Emmy wins and high scores on sites like IMDB and Rotten Tomatoes.

The series is best known for its ambitious animation style, with many episodes looking like a fusion between 3D animation and video game-inspired visuals. Led by a team of talented industry veterans, including David Fincher (Fight Club) and Tim Miller (Dead Pool), the program is well designed so that the audience remains involved in each story. I love death and robots‘ best episodes like “Jibaro” and “Three Robots” explore social issues, such as humanity’s propensity for greed and violence, in a unique and thought-provoking way.