10 Movies & Shows Like Treasure Planet (2002)

Description: As one of Disney's darker animated films, 'The Black Cauldron' shares with 'Treasure Planet' a sense of high-stakes adventure and fantasy elements. Both feature young protagonists facing powerful evil forces and magical artifacts. The films were both technological milestones for Disney animation in their respective eras, pushing boundaries in visual storytelling. Themes of courage against overwhelming odds and the battle between good and evil are central to both.

Fact: This was the first Disney animated film to receive a PG rating. It was based on Lloyd Alexander's 'The Chronicles of Prydain' series. The film was a box office failure but has since gained a cult following.

Description: Similar to 'Treasure Planet', 'The Iron Giant' is a heartfelt story about an unlikely friendship that changes both characters' lives. Both films deal with themes of prejudice, identity, and choosing one's own path. The retro-futuristic aesthetic of 'The Iron Giant' parallels 'Treasure Planet's blend of historical and sci-fi elements. Both films were critically acclaimed but initially underperformed at the box office, later gaining cult status.

Fact: This was Brad Bird's directorial debut before he went on to direct 'The Incredibles' and 'Ratatouille'. Vin Diesel provided the voice of the Iron Giant, using only about 50 words total. The film was based on Ted Hughes' 1968 novel 'The Iron Man'.

Description: Sharing 'Treasure Planet's spirit of adventure and discovery, 'The Road to El Dorado' follows two roguish protagonists on a quest for a legendary city of gold. Both films blend humor with heartfelt moments, and feature unlikely heroes who grow through their experiences. The animation in both movies is lush and detailed, creating immersive historical-fantasy worlds. The theme of friendship and the contrast between greed and genuine wonder are prominent in both stories.

Fact: Elton John and Tim Rice, who collaborated on 'The Lion King' soundtrack, also worked on this film's music. The film was originally conceived as a more adult-oriented animated feature. Kenneth Branagh was initially cast as Tulio but was replaced by Kevin Kline during production.

Description: Like 'Treasure Planet', 'Sinbad: Legend of the Seven Seas' is a swashbuckling adventure that reimagines classic tales with a modern twist. Both films feature charismatic young heroes, fantastical creatures, and high-stakes quests across uncharted territories. The themes of redemption, loyalty, and self-discovery are central to both stories. The animation style in both films is dynamic, with a focus on fluid action sequences and vibrant, otherworldly settings.

Fact: This was DreamWorks' last traditionally animated feature before switching to CGI. Brad Pitt provided the voice for Sinbad, marking his first voice acting role in an animated film. The film's score was composed by Harry Gregson-Williams, who also worked on 'Shrek' and 'The Chronicles of Narnia'.

Description: Similar to 'Treasure Planet', 'Atlantis: The Lost Empire' is a high-adventure animated film that blends science fiction with fantasy elements. Both films feature young protagonists embarking on perilous journeys to discover legendary places, with strong themes of exploration, discovery, and the clash between technology and ancient civilizations. The visual aesthetics of both films are unique, combining traditional animation with innovative designs to create immersive worlds.

Fact: 'Atlantis: The Lost Empire' was Disney's first animated feature to be produced primarily in widescreen format. The film's art style was heavily influenced by the works of comic book artist Mike Mignola, creator of 'Hellboy'. It was one of the first Disney animated films to receive a PG rating, due to its more intense action sequences.

Description: While visually distinct from 'Treasure Planet', 'The Secret of Kells' shares its themes of adventure, discovery, and the preservation of knowledge. Both films feature young protagonists embarking on dangerous quests that challenge their understanding of the world. The unique art style of 'The Secret of Kells', though different from 'Treasure Planet's blend of 2D and 3D, similarly creates a distinctive, immersive world. Both films celebrate creativity, imagination, and the power of stories.

Fact: The film's intricate art style was inspired by medieval illuminated manuscripts, particularly the real Book of Kells. It was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature in

Description: 'Stardust' shares with 'Treasure Planet' a blend of fantasy and adventure, featuring a young protagonist's journey into a magical world. Both films have a whimsical yet adventurous tone, combining romance, action, and fantastical elements. The visual style of both creates unique, imaginative worlds that feel both familiar and extraordinary. Themes of destiny, courage, and discovering one's true self are central to both narratives.

Fact: The film is based on Neil Gaiman's novel of the same name, with Gaiman making a cameo as the market trader. Robert De Niro's flamboyant pirate character was largely improvised by the actor. Claire Danes learned to speak with an English accent for her role, though her character wasn't originally written as English.

Description: Similar to 'Treasure Planet', 'How to Train Your Dragon' is a coming-of-age story about a young protagonist who forms an unlikely bond with a mythical creature, challenging his society's prejudices. Both films explore themes of understanding the unknown, father-son relationships, and personal growth through adventure. The flying sequences in 'How to Train Your Dragon' evoke the same sense of wonder and freedom as the space sailing in 'Treasure Planet'. Both films balance action, humor, and emotional depth exceptionally well.

Fact: The film's dragon sounds were created using a combination of animal noises, including elephants, tigers, and even the voice actor's own purring cat. It was the first DreamWorks Animation film to be released in IMAX 3D. The story is loosely based on the book series by Cressida Cowell, but with significant changes to the plot and characters.

Description: Like 'Treasure Planet', 'The Little Prince' explores themes of imagination, growing up, and seeing the world with wonder. Both films use unique animation styles to tell their stories - 'Treasure Planet' blends 2D and 3D, while 'The Little Prince' combines CGI and stop-motion. The relationship between the young protagonist and an older mentor figure is central to both narratives. Both films balance whimsy with profound emotional moments.

Fact: This was the first animated adaptation of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's classic novel to receive wide release. The film expands the original story with a new framing narrative. It features voice work from Jeff Bridges, Rachel McAdams, and Marion Cotillard.

Description: Like 'Treasure Planet', 'Moana' is a coming-of-age adventure about a young protagonist setting sail into the unknown, defying expectations to fulfill a greater destiny. Both films feature strong themes of exploration, cultural heritage, and the relationship between humans and the natural (or supernatural) world. The ocean voyage in 'Moana' parallels the space journey in 'Treasure Planet', with both serving as metaphors for personal growth. Both films also feature memorable musical scores that enhance their emotional impact.

Fact: The film's directors spent time in the Pacific Islands conducting research, which heavily influenced the story and animation. This was Disney's first film to feature a Polynesian princess. The character Maui was animated to resemble his voice actor, Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson, including his signature raised eyebrow.