Since their vibrant birth, animated science fiction films have always been a lot of fun for audiences, combining the imagination of the genre with a medium that can live up to it. They have a unique talent for building captivating worlds, especially ones that are very rich and immersive, often resulting in beloved animated films with robot protagonists. A good animated sci-fi film will leave audiences hungry for more, ensuring a second production that sometimes does even better than the first. However, not every cinematic gem receives the attention it deserves.
From visually stunning epics like WALL-E to non-Disney 2D animation masterpieces, Many animated science fiction films are not only cool to watch, but exist as canonical events in the lives of many. People grew up with many of these films or, better yet, were able to experience them for the first time as adults. Of all the animated science fiction films out there, ironically it seems that the best ones always have the misfortune of not getting the sequel they deserve when there is still more the story can offer.
8
The Iron Giant (1999)
Directed by Brad Bird
Brad Bird The iron giant is a timeless masterpiece of storytelling before he became famous for directing The Incredibles. It somehow mixes Cold War paranoia and a heartfelt story of friendship in a way that isn't at all cheesy. The genius setup of Hogarth befriending a giant robot of mysterious origin left so much untapped potential that it hurts even more considering how good the film was in the first place. Even though there will almost definitely never be a sequel, there is always something new that can be found by rewatching The iron giant25 years later.
The indefinite conclusion of The iron giant leaves many different questions for the audience to digest: “Where did the giant come from? What happened after he got himself together?“There are still a lot of new ideas for a sequel that could be explored in relation to these mysteries of the past or stories of the future, which, again, is frustrating for fans to think about. It's It's been approximately a quarter of a century since this cinematic achievement fell and the closest thing we've come to a Iron Giant sequence is Bee.
7
Titan AE (2000)
Directed by Don Bluth, Gary Goldman and Art Vitello
Titan AE came from a trio of famous creatives but was a box office flop but has since gained a strong cult following. Set in a post-apocalyptic universe where Earth has been destroyed, the film follows Cale Tucker as he discovers a spacecraft capable of creating a new planet. Regardless of everything else, world-building in Titan AE it's phenomenal. Plots and characters could have been explored further in a potential sequel, highlighting many missed opportunities for a sequel to Titan AE
A sequel could also have delved deeper into humanity's rebuilding struggles while exploring more of the universe's mysteries. With its mix of high-stakes action and stunning visuals, Titan AE It was the kind of film that begged for a second chapter, especially considering its cult classic resurgence. Some sort of momentum could have been capitalized upon during the appreciation of the film's extended release, which is absolutely something to consider when discussing the general scope of animated sci-fi films that deserve a sequel.
6
9 (2009)
Directed by Shane Acker
Tim Burton 9 is a slightly strange but mostly fascinating post-apocalyptic world in which little sentient ragdolls go into tumultuous combat, bravely defending themselves from violent machines. Originally created as a 2005 science fiction animated short film at the UCLA Animation Workshop 9 it retains much of the original DIY charm of the source material on which it was based. The film ends on an ambiguous note, literally setting things up for the perfect sequel. Leaving the future of the surviving characters and their desolate world open to interpretation, 9 had some serious growth potential.
A sequel to 9 could have explored humanity's remnants in a variety of ways. The origins of the machines that destroyed life could be analyzed, and several better films could result from the original production project. The cute characters have longevity in their design, almost looking like prototypes of Minions (who later carried the torch as America's most flexible soldiers). Regardless, sentient ragdolls have the potential to be just as big in pop culture as their neon yellow cousins ​​(with the right narrative, of course).
5
Robots (2005)
Directed by Chris Wedge
In terms of movies that are something special, Blue Sky Studios Robots it is an absolute package of affection, charm, nostalgia and futurism. These contradictory aspects shouldn't work together the way they're premised, but they do. The exuberant chemistry this film possesses is a miracle in itself, providing fans with perhaps one of the most enjoyable experiences animation can offer, especially 20 years ago. The animations are slightly retro, but unforgettable and fun to watch. Meanwhile, the dialogue in this film is priceless, with killer jokes and stellar voice acting.
Robots features a world full of quirky characters and steampunk aesthetics. Rodney Copperbottom's journey to become an inventor and save the robot community from corporate greed is fun, but there's so much more to explore in this metallic metropolis. A sequel could have expanded on Rodney's adventures and career, introduced new robotic landscapes, or even tackled larger themes like evolution. Overall, with the perfect setup, the Robots It would take a lot more than a movie to age you. With its all-star cast and clever humor, Robots had the foundation for an exciting franchise that, unfortunately, never came to fruition.
4
WALL-E (2008)
Directed by Andrew Stanton
by Pixar WALL-E is a near-perfect, intensely beautiful film, but that doesn't mean fans wouldn't have swallowed a hypothetical WALL-E 2. The story of a humble trash compactor robot who falls in love with his brilliant opposite soulmate during his quest to save humanity is as moving as it is visually stunning. The film ends with humanity returning to Earth, with countless different questions being fired at from all angles about how they will survive and the beloved robot's place in this narrative.
A sequel could have fully explored the thrill of rebuilding a new civilization or followed WALL-E and EVE on another outrageously cute yet meaningful adventure. There are so many feats of animated artistry included in this film that it's a shame audiences won't be able to revisit it. The visual designs of WALL-E and his robot counterparts are absolutely unforgettable in science fiction culture, and it would be amazing to see more of them. WALL-E's animators. With its strong environmental message etched into a captivating storyline, WALL-E left audiences with a world worth returning to.
3
Treasure Planet (2002)
Directed by John Musker and Ron Clements
from Disney Treasure Planet he takes Treasure Island and gives it a unique sci-fi twist, combining traditional animation with CGI to create a visually unique universe. Jim Hawkins' journey through space with Long John Silver is full of adventure and excitement, and the film's overall approach is fun and creative. Treasure Planet could have taken the surprise factor into account a little more, as many moments feel a bit slow, lacking the necessary tension that could be readily available in a second attachment.
A sequel could have sent Jim on a new treasure hunt, delving deeper into the galaxy's lore, giving the film's innovative visuals and memorable characters a second chance to dazzle audiences. Its disappointing box office performance only makes Treasure Planet an excellent candidate for further exploration, highlighting the potential heights it could have reached with minor cinematic tweaks and a better release environment. Its cult status has increased over the years, meaning at least some interest in a sequel.
2
Meet the Robinsons (2007)
Directed by Stephen Anderson
This futuristic Disney time travel adventure follows young inventor Lewis as he meets the eccentric Robinson family. Meet the Robinsons taking on time travel doesn't get too complicated with the logic of it, but it nails its themes with what it thinks it wants to know about what happened before and what it wants next. Although all the mysteries about Lewis' past and future are unraveled in the end, the film's whimsical devices and quirky characters are filled with continuation potential, generating the need for a sequel since the film's initial release in 2007.
A second film could have delved into Lewis' life as an adult inventor, exploring other time travel shenanigans, possibilities, and potential conflicts. The film's overarching messages about perseverance and family resonated deeply with audiences, meaning more plots could derive from these cases. Meet the Robinsons has the solid basis for a follow-up that unfortunately never happened, as the first film is still underrated.
1
Big Hero 6 (2014)
Directed by Don Hall and Chris Williams
While Big Hero 6 spawned an entire TV show following its Oscar win, the proper sequel has yet to appear in theaters. Set in the futuristic city of San Fransokyo, the film follows robotics prodigy Hiro and his inflatable sidekick Baymax as they form a much-loved superhero team. The cuteness of these characters combined with the coolness of Baymax's design will never get old – Big Hero 6 is the definitive new observation.
A sequel to Big Hero 6 could have introduced new villains, expanded the team, or explored the dynamic between Hiro and Baymax for years to come. The film has many emotional, high-energy moments that make it impossible not to want more, and once again, the character designs are absolutely stunning. General, Big Hero 6 will forever remain a fan favorite, deserving of a return on the big screen. More than a decade old, the probability of a Great hero sequel is low, but it's incredible to think about the possibilities it would have.