Joshua T Craig

Animation has traditionally been viewed as a realm dedicated to children, characterized by vibrant visuals, humor, adventure, and happy conclusions. However, Pixar, the innovative studio responsible for films such as Toy Story, Up, and Inside Out, has disrupted this perception. Consistently, the studio has produced films that elicit tears not only from children but also from adults—particularly grown men—who find themselves quietly emotional in the dark of a cinema. What sets Pixar apart is its skill in blending imaginative narratives with profound emotional resonance, crafting stories that extend beyond mere entertainment to touch the essence of the human experience.

Central to Pixar’s achievements is its dedication to emotional authenticity. Instead of avoiding life’s more challenging truths, the studio approaches them with compassion and sincerity. A prominent illustration of this is the initial montage in Up, where, in just a few minutes, viewers experience the complete journey of Carl and Ellie’s marriage—their aspirations, disappointments, unwavering commitment, and eventually, Ellie’s passing. This moment is devoid of dialogue yet profoundly resonates with adults who comprehend the beauty and vulnerability of enduring love. It is no surprise that many men, who might not anticipate shedding tears during an animated feature, find themselves deeply affected by this depiction of love and loss.

Pixar also adeptly integrates universal human experiences into its narratives in ways that transcend age barriers. For example, Toy Story 3 premiered at a time when many original fans of the franchise were transitioning into adulthood. Observing Andy pass on his cherished toys to Bonnie was more than a fictional event—it served as a reflection for those who grew up alongside him. For adult men, the film ignited a surge of nostalgia and compelled them to confront the bittersweet reality that childhood, once lost, cannot be reclaimed. The emotions stirred were not solely for the toys but for their own reminiscences of growing up, leaving behind innocence, and bidding farewell to a significant life chapter.

Even when venturing into fantastical realms, Pixar grounds its tales in the realities of grief, love, and identity. In Coco, which revolves around family and music, the emotional high point occurs when Miguel sings “Remember Me” to his ailing great-grandmother. This moment elevates a simple song into a profound reflection on memory and mortality, prompting many men to contemplate their own families and the legacies of their ancestors. Likewise, Inside Out conveys the message that sadness is not a sign of weakness but a crucial component of healing. By personifying emotions, the film empowers adults to reassess their emotional journeys and understand that vulnerability can be a source of strength rather than shame.

For adult men in particular, Pixar’s films present a rare opportunity to embrace vulnerability. In cultures where men are often pressured to conceal their emotions and maintain a stoic demeanor, Pixar cultivates a welcoming environment to experience deep feelings without judgment. While seated in a theater among others who are equally touched, men are reminded that it is natural to cry, that love and loss impact all individuals, and that true strength lies not in suppressing emotions but in acknowledging them.

Ultimately, Pixar’s strength resides in its ability to convey stories that are simultaneously simple and profound. While children may chuckle at the humor, admire the animation, and enjoy the adventure, adults—especially men—recognize reflections of their own lives in the characters and narratives. Whether it is Carl’s profound loneliness, Andy’s farewell, Mama Coco’s fading memory, or Riley’s emotional complexities, Pixar underscores essential truths: that love is significant, loss is inevitable, and tears are an integral part of the human experience.

Pixar does not merely create films; it crafts emotional journeys—experiences that entertain while also transforming audiences. This is why, time and again, grown men find themselves moved to tears during animated features. Pixar’s creations are not childish—they are timeless.