Animated shows can be some of the most imaginative programs on streaming and network television.They are often known for creativity in style, direction, and storytelling, which can be a breath of fresh air in the limited scope of live-action television, particularly the ones in the anthology format.
Anthology animated serieswith a new cast of characters and plot lines every new episode or season weren’t that common. However, in recent years,anthology animated series have grown in popularity, with shows like Netflix’sLove Death and Robotsand those that build on existing IP, likeMarvel’s…What If?. However, this episodic-based storytelling format can prove a challenge for some anthologies, which struggle to maintain viewers' attention without a stable cast or unified storyline. Thebest animated showsin the anthology format not only attract a stable base of fans but perform well critically for their uniqueness in the market.
10Cake (2019–2021)
Created by FX
FX’s adult comedy anthology,Cake, is a whimsically fun complication of comedic skits and short stories. This seriesfeatures several different dark comedies, from animated to a mix of live-action elements.The short-lived show has yet to win any awards and has an average audience score on both IMDB and Rotten Tomatoes, yet is a great casual watch for anyone wanting a laugh.
6.6/10
Rotten Tomatoes
38%
The series features a number of notable performances from recognizable names like Natasha Lyonne and Finn Wittrock.Cakeis also an exciting showcase of different animation styles. For example, several episodes feature a blend of live-action, 2D cartoons, 3D animation, and claymation. Its themes cover hilariouslyrelatable issues, like the need for self-care or the experience of social anxiety, making it agreat animated show for adults.
9Zootopia + (2022)
Created by Byron Howard, Rich Moore, Jared Bush
Zootopia +is the adorable new seriesthat is a spin-off to the hit film,Zootopia. This series follows various side characters from the original film but in the same timeline as the events of the original film. By doing this, fans are able torecognize beloved moments from the film with the addition of extra context from smaller characters' perspectives.
6.8/ 10
66%
Thismini-anthology series is a great family watch, each ending with an important life lesson, just like the moralistic underbelly of the original film. From Fru Fru the shrew to Chief Bogo,smaller characters are given more screen time inZootopia+, adding to the fan service element that fuelsZootopia +.
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The simplicity of this anthology doesn’t expand upon the universe ofZootopiain any significant way, which may be why the series has yet to win any critical awards. Rather,Zootopia +is a fun, light watch for those wanting to return to the world of the original film.
Strange Planet
Cast
Strange Planet is an animated series based on the popular webcomic by Nathan W. Pyle, exploring whimsical and thought-provoking aspects of human nature through blue-skinned extraterrestrial beings who navigate life’s absurdities and simplicities.
Strange Planetis a delightful anthology seriesbased on the viral webcomic by Nathan W. Pyle. Each episode in the seriesrevolves around a cast of alien characters who must deal with relatable human predicaments, learning a meaningful lesson in the end. The relatively new series has a high audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, but no awards.
6.4/10
82%
For those searching for a wholesome watch,Strange Planetis a feel-good anthology worth checking out, with its cute cast of alien characters and comic-style animation. Its unique premise discussesthemes of love and human connection in the least human place possible…an alien planet.Its subtle comedy makes it an easy watch for those in search of a low-maintenance anthology series. Not to mention,Strange Planetis produced by Dan Harmon(Community), and his collaboration with Nathan W. Pyle allows the show to stay true to the source material.
The Boys Presents: Diabolical
An animated spin-off of Eric Kripke’s popular tv series adaptation of the dark take on superheroes, The Boys, The Boys Presents: Diabolical is an anthology series that features several different animation styles for each standalone episode. The series features the voices of the original cast members, as well as featuring several famous comic writers helping to flesh out the less dramatic episodes.
The Boys: Diabolicalis a brief anthology based on the hit television show,The Boys.This cartoon takes a slightly more comedic look atThe Boysuniverse than its live-action counterpart, with the comedic genius of minds like Seth Rogan and Evan Goldberg. Each episode tells the story of normal citizens who live among thesupes ofThe Boys, as they are impacted by their Vought technology and Homelander’s team.
6.8/10
97%
The series earned an Emmy and a high audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, which comes as no surprise considering the popularity of the live-action and different animation styles of each episode. For fans who want to see more from the show,this is a more lighthearted yet still twisted depiction with moments from the comics that don’t make it intoThe Boys.However, this series does not expand upon the complexities ofThe Boysas much as other anthologies may but instead acts as a supplement for viewing alongside the main show.
6The Shivering Truth (2018–2020)
Created by Vernon Chatman
The Shivering Truthis a shockingly terrifying anthology produced for Adult Swim. This claymation animated anthology is asurrealist collection of horror stories that examine the nightmares of the human psyche.The Shivering Truth’sthought-provoking episodes earned it critical acclaim and a nomination at the Sundance Festival.
8.1/10
88%
This anthology is certainly not for everyone but captivates fans of the show, who appreciate it for its unique claymation style, haunting visuals, and wacky plot lines, effectively making the viewer feel they are witnessing a nightmare. In other words,The Shivering Truthis truly one-of-a-kind, but its exploration into dark comedy is undoubtedly original.The niche target of its audience may be one of the reasons for the short life of the animated series. Beyond each episode’s unique premise, the show features a star-studded cast of actors like Michael Cera, Janeane Garofalo, and Zach Pearlman.
The Animatrix
The Animatrix is a collection of nine animated short films set in the universe of The Matrix. Released in 2003, the anthology delves into the origins of the Matrix, the war between humans and machines, and individual stories that expand on the film trilogy’s themes. Each segment is directed by a different filmmaker, blending various animation styles to explore the complex world created by the Wachowskis.
A classic of its genre, Wachowski’s 2003 anthologyThe Animatrixstill holds up. This anthology isbuilt off ofThe Matrixfranchise and tells multiple stories about characters from its universe, expanding upon the digital world ofThe Matrixand its beginnings. This collection earned high scores on both IMDB and Rotten Tomatoes with stories from different creators and studios.
7.3/10
89%
This lesser-known IP-based anthology is notable for many reasons. Chiefly, the already mysterious world of the original franchise is given morecanon connections through multiple episodes inAnimatrix, which explore the creation of the Matrix and Neo’s future adventures with different characters who are still trapped in virtual reality. Like several other anthology series on the list,The Animatrixblends several styles, particularly of Japanese animation.Impressive animation artists such as Shinichiro Watanabe (Cowboy Bebop) make this anthology’s cyber-punk world captivating for viewers.
Infinity Train
Infinity Train is an animated anthology series created by Owen Dennis, following various characters who board a mysterious train with infinite cars, each containing its unique world. The series explores themes of self-discovery, personal growth, and redemption as passengers solve puzzles and cope with their inner struggles to find their way home.
Infinity Trainis a Cartoon Network anthology that ran briefly, for three years. Owen Dennis’s original story follows Tulip,a young girl who finds herself transported to a post-apocalyptic world where she is trapped on a never-ending train with strange creatures/beings in each of its many universes. This highly imaginative series won for best cartoon at the Cartoon Base Awards and earned a whopping 100% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.
Best cartoon
8.4/10
100%
Though the series was short-lived, the unique worlds in each episode are riveting to fans of the show, as is the endearing anchor character of Tulip, who travels to each different world. Beyond its atmospheric soundtrack and stunning visuals, the show is philosophical, delving into the psychological and emotional troubles ofInfinity Train’smain characters. In terms of anthologies,Infinity Trainis an eccentric, hidden gem worth a watch.
Star Wars: Visions
This animated anthology series features short films from Japanese creators, offering unique and diverse interpretations of the Star Wars universe. Each episode presents a distinct narrative style, exploring new characters and themes while celebrating the iconic elements of the franchise in a novel format.
Star Wars Visionsis a great example of an anthology series that departs from its characteristic style while stillhonoring George Lucas’s original vision. In this Lucasfilm anthology adaptation,each episode features untold stories from characters across the galaxy of the Star Wars universe, but from the perspectives of studios from different cultures.Star Wars Visionshas performed well with fans as well as critics, earning an Emmy and a nomination.
7.0/10
98%
What distinguishesStar Wars Visionsfrom other similar anthology spin-offs is its collaboration withmajor anime studios from around the world.For example, top studios, such as Aardman (Wallace and Gromit,Chicken Run) and Production I.G. (Ghost in the Shell), create their unique spin on the Star Wars animated universe in their perspective episodes.Between its exciting additions to theStar Warscanon and diverse animation styles, this anthology is a unique watch.
What If…?
What If… ? is an animated anthology series set in the Marvel Cinematic Universe which features fan-favorite characters, including Peggy Carter, T’Challa, Doctor Strange, Killmonger, Thor, and more. The new series, directed by Bryan Andrews with AC Bradley as head writer, features signature MCU action with a curious twist. The show sees Uatu the Watcher, an omnipotent being that observes the events of multiple universes from afar as they unfold, unable to interfere. However, things shift when an entity peers beyond the veil, jeopardizing the multiverse.
Marvel’s…What If?,is one of the best examples of an anthology adaptation based on an existing IP. This seriesfocuses on a different hero from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, changing their role in its canon to create new stories based on these beloved characters. For example,Captain America’s “Peggy Carter"is no longer the girlfriend of Steve Rogers, but Captain America herself.
7.4/10
This ambitious series has performed well with critics, naturally, earning wins in both the Emmy and Critics' Choice Awards, and high scores on Rotten Tomatoes and IMDB. Because ofWhat If?‘sreliance on existing storylines and characters,it is no surprise that the series attracted fans of the Studio who were excited to see familiar facesbut set in entirelynew alternative universes. Not to mention, this anthology brings back star-studded cast members from their live-action projects.
This Netflix anthology premiered in 2019 and quickly caught the eye of fans and critics.Love Death and Robotsfeatures a set of storiesbased on dystopian worldsthat examine deeper themes concerning society, human nature, and technology.The science fiction series is one of the most critically acclaimed anthologies, with 5 Emmy wins and high scores on websites like IMDB and Rotten Tomatoes.
Rating/Win
Emmy
Outstanding Sound Editing for a Comedy or Drama Series (Half-Hour) and Animation
Outstanding Short Form Animated Program
86%
The series isknown best for its ambitious animation style, with many episodes looking like a fusion between 3D animation and video game-inspired visuals. Led by a team of talented veterans in the business, such as David Fincher (Fight Club) and Tim Miller (Deadpool), the show is crafted well so that audiences remain engaged story-to-story.Love Death and Robots’ best episodeslike “Jibaro” and “Three Robots” explore societal issues, such as humanity’s propensity for greed and violence, in a unique and thought-provoking way.
