The Best Animation Voice Overs of the 2000s

The dawn of the 21st century marked a significant shift in the world of animation, with advancements in technology and storytelling techniques taking center stage. 

In this article

1. Background on 2000s Animation
2. The Impact Of Technology On Animation In The 2000s
3. What Were the Big 2000s Animation Movies?
4. Who Were the Leading Voice Actors in the 2000 Era Animation?
5. What Were Some of the Best Voice Over Animation Performances in the 2000s?
6. Final Thoughts

The early 2000s witnessed the conclusion of what is often referred to as “The Renaissance” period of retro animation, making way for the Millennium Age of Animation.

Background on 2000s Animation

While CGI became more prevalent throughout this decade, especially with studios like Pixar leading the charge, digital software continued to evolve, and powerhouse studios such as Disney, Pixar, DreamWorks, and Aardman emerged as leaders in crafting groundbreaking animated films with memorable characters brought to life by talented voice actors.

In the 2000s, the animation industry experienced significant advancements due to numerous notable studios’ creative influence and technological developments. 

These studios not only elevated character creation but also played instrumental roles in popularizing unique storytelling and visual effects styles during this period.

As technology advanced rapidly, computer-generated imagery (CGI) became more sophisticated, leading to exceptional visuals complemented by stellar voice acting performances.

The Impact Of Technology On Animation In The 2000s

The 2000s marked a significant turning point in the world of animation, as groundbreaking advancements in technology paved the way for innovative and visually striking masterpieces.

These technological leaps allowed animators to delve into the seemingly boundless realm of computer graphics imagery (CGI) and transform it into a major component within modern animated films.

The rise of CGI animation transformed audience expectations, ushering in new levels of immersion and storytelling possibilities. 

Iconic examples from this era include Pixar’s ‘WALL-E’, which was lauded for its environmental message combined with breathtaking visuals; DreamWorks’ ‘Shrek’ series that pushed boundaries with its humorous take on fairy tales; and Studio Ghibli’s ‘Spirited Away’ a hand-drawn masterpiece supplemented by computer-generated special effects.

What Were the Big 2000s Animation Movies?

The 2000s brought many chart-topping animated films that captivated audiences and showcased the creative genius of various animation studios. 

One key player, Pixar, dominated the scene with beloved classics such as ‘Finding Nemo’ (2003), ‘WALL-E’ (2008), and ‘The Incredibles’ (2004).

However, the 2000s offered more than just Pixar masterpieces. Hayao Miyazaki’s ‘Spirited Away’ enchanted viewers with its breathtaking artistry and compelling narrative in 2001, becoming one of the most celebrated non-Pixar animations.

Meanwhile, established franchises like ‘Kung Fu Panda’ (2008) and ‘Madagascar’ (2005) managed to garner immense popularity during this era thanks to their unique characters and stellar voice over casts.

Animated movies in the 2000s garnered critical acclaim and commercial success, often receiving multiple award nominations. 

Outstanding animated films like ‘Ratatouille’, ‘Finding Nemo’, ‘Up’, and ‘WALL-E’ received Academy Awards for Best Animated Feature Film of the Year.

Additionally, ‘Shrek’ won an Oscar for Best Animated Feature and a BAFTA Children’s Award for Best Feature Film.

In addition to accolades within the film industry, many animated movies from this era also achieved box office success, earning over $500 million worldwide at their release.

Who Were the Leading Voice Actors in the 2000 Era Animation?

The 2000s saw a rise in animated movies, and a need for talented voice actors came with it. Some of the most prominent names include: 

• Tara Strong (‘The Powerpuff Girls’)
• Rob Paulsen (‘Animaniacs’)
• Ellen DeGeneres (‘Finding Nemo’)
• Nancy Cartwright (‘The Simpsons’)

The success stories of these voice actors show that there are many opportunities to build a rewarding career in entertainment through voice acting. With dedication, hard work, and talent, individuals who begin as cartoon voice over artists can eventually ascend to stardom in Hollywood and beyond.

What Were Some of the Best Voice Over Animation Performances in the 2000s?

Voice acting plays a crucial role in bringing animated characters to life. The 2000s saw several standout voice over performances that left amark on popular culture.

The art of voice acting in animation involves more than just reading lines from a script; it requires delivering lines with emotion, nuance, and personality, without the benefit of physical gestures or facial expressions.

Many famous actors have tried voicing animated characters over the years, attracted by the creative freedom offered by this medium.

Some of these stand out voice over animation roles include:

• Billy Crystal as Mike Wazowski in ‘Monsters, Inc.’
• David Spade as Kuzco in ‘The Emperor’s New Groove’
• Will Ferrell as Megamind in ‘Megamind’
• Eddie Murphy as Donkey in ‘Shrek’
• George Clooney as Mr. Fox in ‘Fantastic Mr. Fox’
• Samuel L. Jackson as Lucius Best in ‘The Incredibles’

The actors mentioned above have successfully created memorable roles through voice over animation. Some of the best animated movies of the 2000s were made all the more enjoyable by their talented voice actors.

Voice actors must also be able to take direction from directors or producers when they need adjustments in their delivery styles.

Final Thoughts

The 2000s saw a significant evolution in animation due to the emergence of new technologies and innovative techniques, resulting in groundbreaking animated movies and TV shows. But what makes a quote or catchphrase stick with us? It could be the delivery, tone, or even the context it was used in. 

The best voice over performers understand how to embody their characters fully and bring them to life through their voices, and this is why many successful animation voice actors have strategies for choosing the perfect voice for their characters, taking into account elements such as personality traits and physical appearance.

Famously executed lines like, “Ogres are like onions, we have layers,” make us recall how great of a decade this was for animation voice over.