The best of Pete Docter: five movies every film fan should see -.

Pete Docter is one of the most influential figures in the world of animation. As director, writer and creative director at Pixar Animation Studios, Docter helped shape some of the most iconic and emotionally resonant films of recent decades. Known for his ability to combine humor, heart and sophisticated themes, Docter’s work resonates with audiences of all ages and explores complex emotions, relationships and the human experience. His unique approach to storytelling and deep knowledge of character-driven narratives have made him one of Pixar’s most celebrated talents.

Today we want to explore Docter’s five best works, ranked from fifth to first, focusing on the themes and messages that make these films enduring and unforgettable. So let’s waste no more time. Here is what we consider the best of Pete Docter.

5. His work on great Pixar films.

Although Pete Docter has only directed four films, his influence on Pixar extends far beyond that. Docter has been involved in many iconic Pixar films in key creative roles, including writing, producing and shaping the vision of some of the studio’s most beloved films. In particular, he was one of the key writers for Toy Story (1995) and Toy Story 2 (1999), two films that helped define the modern animation era. His work as a writer and creative force also contributed to the creation of WALL-E (2008), a film considered one of the most gripping and visually stunning animated films ever made.

Docter’s fingerprints can also be found in the creative development of films such as Ratatouille (2007) and Coco (2017), where he contributed to the storytelling and thematic depth that made these films so impactful. Starting in 2020, Pete Docter became Chief Creative Officer at Pixar, where he oversaw the studio’s projects and ensured that Pixar’s legacy of innovative, emotionally rich filmmaking continues.

4. Soul (2020)

Soul follows Joe Gardner, a high school music teacher and aspiring jazz musician, who unexpectedly finds himself in the afterlife. There he embarks on a journey with 22, a soul never interested in life on earth, to discover the true meaning of purpose and passion. The film explores themes of self-discovery, existential goals and the beauty of everyday life.

Soul is a profound exploration of the meaning of life, the search for purpose and the idea that fulfillment comes not only from achieving big dreams, but also from embracing the small moments that make life beautiful. Docter and his team create a film that explores abstract concepts like the afterlife and the soul, and offers an accessible story about appreciating the present moment. The film’s stunning visuals and jazz-infused soundtrack perfectly complement its philosophical themes, making it an emotionally resonant and thought-provoking experience for viewers of all ages.

3. Inside Out (2015)

Inside Out takes viewers inside the mind of an 11-year-old girl named Riley, whose emotions – Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear and Disgust – are personified as characters. When Riley’s family moves to a new town, her emotions must work together to help her cope with the changes and challenges of growing up.

Inside Out is a groundbreaking exploration of human emotion, showing the complexity of our feelings and how they shape our experiences. Docter delves into themes of emotional growth, the importance of grief in the healing process and the transition from childhood to adolescence. The film encourages audiences to embrace all their emotions and teaches them that even negative feelings have value and contribute to personal growth. With its vibrant animation and creative story structure, Inside Out remains one of Pixar’s most innovative and emotionally impactful films.

2. Monsters, Inc. (2001)

In Monsters, Inc. the monsters who scare children for a living discover that laughter is a more powerful energy source than fear. When a young girl, Boo, accidentally enters their world, two monsters, Sulley and Mike, must protect her and find a way to get her back to her home.

Monsters, Inc. cleverly tackles themes of fear, innocence and the power of positivity. At its core, the film is about the importance of change and progress, challenging traditional methods of how things are done in favor of more sustainable and compassionate solutions. The shift from scaring children to making them laugh symbolizes a broader message: that change can lead to something better. Docter, as director and creative force behind the film, delivers it with heart and humor, making it not only an entertaining family film, but also a commentary on the power of positivity and innovation.

1. Up (2009)

Up tells the heartwarming and adventurous story of Carl Fredricksen, a widowed, elderly man who fulfills his late wife Ellie’s dream of traveling to Paradise Falls by tying thousands of balloons to his house. Along the way, he accidentally takes young Russell, a Boy Scout, on an adventure. Together they face challenges, confront Carl’s past and discover the importance of human connection.

Up is one of Pixar’s most emotional and universally beloved films. It explores themes of loss, memory and the importance of moving forward. The opening montage, which poignantly describes Carl and Ellie’s life together, is one of the most heartbreaking sequences in the animated film. Docter’s direction allows the film to balance adventure and comedy with deep emotional resonance, making it a powerful reflection on love, loss and the journey of life. Up teaches us that even after experiencing pain, there is still room for new adventures and connections. It is a testament to the power of storytelling and the emotional depth that animation can achieve.

And that’s all for today! Pete Docter’s work at Pixar has shaped the landscape of animated filmmaking, combining technical innovation with powerful storytelling. From his direction of Up and Inside Out to his significant contributions to films such as Toy Story and WALL-E, Docter’s impact at Pixar is profound and lasting. His films explore complex emotions and themes with humor, heart and insight, making them not only entertaining, but deeply meaningful. As Pixar’s Chief Creative Officer, Docter’s influence continues to guide the studio so that future generations will experience the magic of animation through his visionary lens.

Now we’d love to hear about your experiences with Pete Docter’s work! Which of his films do you think are the best? Would you rearrange the list or add others? We can’t wait to read your opinions in the comments!