In Episode #11 of the Thought Media Podcast, Ava and Max explore the 10 best animated series to watch or stream, providing listeners with their top picks based on popularity, critical acclaim, and audience buzz. The episode highlights a wide variety of animated styles, from 2D animation to anime, and includes both classic cartoons and modern hits. This episode is right in-line with Thought Media’s passion for creating impactful storytelling animations through its subsidiary animation studio: Just Animations.
Ava and Max begin with Rick and Morty, a dark sci-fi comedy that blends absurd humor with deep philosophical themes, followed by the emotionally charged BoJack Horseman. The duo then dives into the beloved series Avatar: The Last Airbender, known for its stunning world-building and engaging storytelling. Other highlights include the long-running The Simpsons, the sci-fi satire of Futurama, and the visually groundbreaking Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.
Anime fans are also well-served with Attack on Titan, One Piece, and Demon Slayer, each showcasing dynamic action and compelling narratives. The episode rounds out with the iconic Naruto, a series beloved for its character growth and intense fight scenes.
Ava and Max emphasize how animation has evolved and continues to captivate audiences worldwide, with each series offering something unique for fans of all ages. This episode is a must-listen for animation lovers and anyone seeking recommendations for the best series to stream!
Here’s the list of The 10 Best Animated Series to Watch or Stream:
1. Rick and Morty
Style: 2D Animation / Cartoon
Produced by: Justin Roiland and Dan Harmon
Aired: 2013-Present
Description: A dark, absurd comedy about an eccentric scientist, Rick, and his good-hearted but easily distressed grandson, Morty, who go on dangerous, interdimensional adventures. The series is known for its sharp humor, deep philosophical themes, and wild animation.
Why it’s great: The show blends high-concept sci-fi with surreal humor, making it one of the most popular animated series of the decade.
2. Bojack Horseman
Style: 2D Animation
Produced by: Raphael Bob-Waksberg and Lisa Hanawalt
Aired: 2014-2020
Description: This show follows BoJack Horseman, a washed-up actor who happens to be a horse, as he navigates his self-destructive life in Hollywood. BoJack is filled with dark humor and emotional depth, addressing themes of addiction, depression, and self-worth.
Why it’s great: BoJack Horseman is a brilliant mix of surreal humor and raw emotional storytelling.
3. Avatar: The Last Airbender
Style: 2D Animation / Anime-Inspired
Produced by: Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko
Aired: 2005-2008
Description: Set in a world where people can manipulate the elements, the series follows Aang, the last Airbender, as he tries to end a century-long war and restore balance to the world.
Why it’s great: Its perfect balance of adventure, world-building, and emotional depth makes it one of the most beloved animated series of all time.
4. The Simpsons
Style: 2D Animation
Produced by: Matt Groening
Aired: 1989-Present
Description: The longest-running animated TV series, The Simpsons follows the daily life of the Simpson family—Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie—as they navigate absurd situations in their hometown of Springfield.
Why it’s great: It’s an iconic piece of pop culture that has influenced generations of viewers with its humor, satirical take on society, and memorable characters.
5. Futurama
Style: 2D Animation / Cartoon
Produced by: Matt Groening
Aired: 1999-2013
Description: Set in the 31st century, Futurama follows Philip J. Fry, a slacker who is accidentally frozen for 1,000 years and wakes up to a future full of quirky characters, robots, and interplanetary adventures.
Why it’s great: It’s a mix of sci-fi, satire, and absurdity, all wrapped in quirky humor that still resonates with audiences.
6. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse
Style: 3D Animation / Comic-Style
Produced by: Sony Pictures Animation
Aired: 2018
Description: This animated film tells the story of Miles Morales, a teenager who becomes the Spider-Man of his universe and teams up with multiple Spider-People from alternate dimensions.
Why it’s great: With its groundbreaking animation style and captivating storytelling, it’s widely regarded as one of the best Spider-Man adaptations ever made.
7. Attack on Titan
Style: Anime
Produced by: Wit Studio
Aired: 2013-Present
Description: Set in a world where humanity is on the brink of extinction due to giant humanoid creatures called Titans, the story follows Eren Yeager, a young man who vows to defeat the Titans after they destroy his home and family.
Why it’s great: Attack on Titan has become a global phenomenon due to its intense action, complex characters, and gripping storyline that delves deep into themes of war, survival, and freedom.
8. One Piece
Style: Anime
Produced by: Toei Animation
Aired: 1999-Present
Description: One Piece follows Monkey D. Luffy and his pirate crew on their journey to find the One Piece, the greatest treasure in the world. This epic adventure spans decades of storytelling, with hundreds of episodes and films.
Why it’s great: Known for its massive world-building, character development, and its ongoing influence on the anime genre, One Piece is one of the most iconic anime series ever created.
9. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
Style: Anime
Produced by: ufotable
Aired: 2019-Present
Description: The story follows Tanjiro Kamado, a young boy whose family is killed by demons. He becomes a demon slayer in an effort to protect his sister, who has been turned into a demon.
Why it’s great: The series is known for its stunning animation and emotionally charged storytelling, with breathtaking fight scenes and powerful character arcs.
10. Naruto (and Naruto Shippuden)
Style: Anime
Produced by: Pierrot
Aired: 2002-2017
Description: Follows the story of Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja who dreams of becoming the strongest leader, or Hokage, of his village. This series explores his journey, overcoming challenges, and mastering his powers.
Why it’s great: Naruto’s epic story, character development, and emotional depth make it a favorite for anime lovers worldwide.