15 of the Greatest Animal Adventures on the Big Screen

1. The Lion King (1994)

Walt Disney Feature Animation

Simba’s journey from a playful cub to the king of the Pride Lands is one of the most iconic animal adventures ever. With unforgettable characters like Timon, Pumbaa, and Mufasa, this heartwarming and epic tale of courage and destiny captured the hearts of audiences worldwide.

2. Free Willy (1993)

FREE WILLY, from left: Jason James Richter, Keiko 1993. ©Warner Brothers/courtesy Everett Collection

Who didn’t root for Willy, the orca, as he leaps to freedom in this beloved ’90s classic? The bond between Jesse and the whale made for a heartwarming story of friendship, freedom, and the fight for animal rights.

3. Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993)

HOMEWARD BOUND: THE INCREDIBLE JOURNEY, Chance, Shadow, Sassy, 1993, (c) Buena Vista/courtesy Everett Collection

Two dogs and a cat embark on an unforgettable adventure to reunite with their family in this touching and sometimes hilarious film. Shadow, Chance, and Sassy’s journey across the wilderness is packed with heart, humor, and lots of emotion.

4. Babe (1995)

BABE, Sheep, Pig, 1995

A pig that wants to be a sheepdog? Babe took audiences on a delightful adventure, full of charm and surprises. With Babe’s determination and the lovable cast of farm animals, this film showed that anything is possible, no matter your size or species!

5. The Jungle Book (1967)

THE JUNGLE BOOK, from left: Baloo the Bear, Mowgli, Bagheera, 1967, ©Walt Disney Pictures/courtesy Everett Collection

Mowgli’s jungle adventure with Baloo the bear and Bagheera the panther is one of Disney’s most enduring classics. From escaping Shere Khan to learning the “Bare Necessities,” Mowgli’s animal-filled journey is full of excitement and life lessons.

6. Lassie (1994)

LASSIE, Thomas Guiry, Lassie, Michelle Williams, 1994. (c) Paramount Pictures/ Courtesy: Everett Collection.

This timeless tale of loyalty follows Lassie, the iconic Rough Collie, as she embarks on a journey to find her way back home. Lassie’s incredible bond with her family and her bravery made her an unforgettable big-screen hero.

7. 101 Dalmatians (1961)

101 DALMATIANS (aka ONE HUNDRED AND ONE DALMATIANS), Dalmatian puppies, 1961, ©Walt Disney Pictures/courtesy Everett Collection

The daring escape of Pongo, Perdita, and their 99 puppies from the villainous Cruella de Vil is a thrilling animal adventure. With its blend of suspense, humor, and adorable puppies, this animated classic remains a beloved family favorite.

8. The Adventures of Milo and Otis (1986)

THE ADVENTURES OF MILO AND OTIS, (aka KONEKO MONOGATARI), 1986. © Columbia Pictures / Courtesy Everett Collection.

This charming tale follows the adventurous journey of a curious cat, Milo, and his best friend, Otis the pug, as they embark on a journey to reunite after getting separated. Their cross-country escapades will warm your heart and make you laugh.

9. Charlotte’s Web (1973)

CHARLOTTE’S WEB, Charlotte the spider, Wilbur the pig, 1973

Wilbur the pig’s journey from runt to county fair champion, with the help of his best friend Charlotte the spider, is an unforgettable tale of friendship and courage. This animated classic brings E.B. White’s beloved book to life with heart and a touch of magic.

10. Balto (1995)

BALTO, Balto (voice: Kevin Bacon), Jenna (voice: Bridget Fonda), 1995. ©Universal Pictures/courtesy Everett Collection

Based on a true story, Balto tells the tale of a heroic half-wolf, half-husky dog who leads a sled team across the frozen wilderness to deliver life-saving medicine. Balto’s bravery and determination make this film an inspiring animal adventure.

11. Finding Nemo (2003)

FINDING NEMO, Marlin, Dory, Bruce, 2003. © Walt Disney / courtesy Everett Collection

Marlin’s epic adventure to find his son, Nemo, takes us deep into the ocean alongside unforgettable characters like Dory, Crush, and Bruce. With stunning animation and a touching story, this is one of Pixar’s greatest animal adventures.

12. The Secret of NIMH (1982)

THE SECRET OF NIMH, Mrs. Brisby (cape), Jeremy (bird), 1982, © United Artists/courtesy Everett Collection

This dark and thrilling animated adventure follows Mrs. Brisby, a courageous field mouse, as she seeks the help of highly intelligent rats to save her home and family. The Secret of NIMH is an under-the-radar animal adventure full of action and heart.

13. March of the Penguins (2005)

MARCH OF THE PENGUINS, 2005, © Warner Bros./ Courtesy: Everett Collection

This visually stunning documentary takes audiences on a breathtaking adventure through the harsh Antarctic landscape, following Emperor penguins as they brave extreme conditions to breed and raise their young. It’s an inspiring story of perseverance and survival.

14. The Fox and the Hound (1981)

THE FOX AND THE HOUND, Corey Feldman as Young Copper, Keith Coogan aka Keith Mitchell as Young Tod, 1981. ©Walt Disney Co./courtesy Everett Collection

This heartwarming and emotional tale of an unlikely friendship between a young fox named Tod and a hunting dog named Copper takes audiences on an adventure filled with challenges and life lessons about loyalty and growing up.

15. The Black Stallion (1979)

THE BLACK STALLION, Michael Higgins, Teri Garr, Kelly Reno, Mickey Rooney, Kristen Vigard, Clarence Muse, 1979, (c) United Artists/courtesy Everett Collection

This timeless classic follows a boy and a wild horse as they form an unbreakable bond after being stranded on a deserted island. Their adventure continues as they return home and enter a thrilling race, showcasing the power of friendship and determination.

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