Pixar's Best Sequels, Ranked

Animation fans love to complain whenever Pixar focuses time and energy on sequels rather than new, original movies. But over the years they've proven themselves pretty adept at crafting sequels worthy of the originals. As we wait for the impending release of "The Incredibles II," here are Pixar's best sequels to date. 

5. 'Cars 3' (2017)

Many Pixar fans are quick to turn their noses up at the Cars franchise, dismissing it as a shameless cash-in designed to sell mountains of toys. But "Cars 3" helped right a franchise that seemed doomed after the very disappointing "Cars 2." The story is a much stronger and more emotionally charged this time around, and Mater's presence is thankfully reduced.

4. 'Monsters University' (2013)

Yes, it is technically a prequel, but let's move on, ok? It's hard to argue that the world actually needed another "Monsters Inc." movie, especially one devoted to exploring how Mike and Sully met in college. It is hardly the most groundbreaking addition to Pixar's library, at least "Monsters University" delivers amusing college hijinks and an engaging story. Its colorful animation is also a strong showcase for how far Pixar has come since the early days.   

3. 'Finding Dory' (2016)

"Finding Dory" is a very belated sequel that many argued didn't need to be made in the first place. That said, most Pixar fans had their minds changed after actually seeing the film. While not quite as novel or as well told a story (both narratively and emotionally) as "Finding Nemo," "Finding Dory" expands the premise in, at times, interesting new directions. There's an intermittent winning blend of slapstick fish humor and emotional drama as the forgetful Dory tries to finally get in touch with her family and where she comes from. 

2. 'Toy Story 2' (1999)

There's no reason "Toy Story 2" should be as good as it is. The film was originally intended to be a direct-to-video release and the entire plot was basically rewritten in the span of a weekend when Disney opted for a theatrical release. Yet, somehow, it became the rare Pixar sequel to exceed the standard of its predecessor. Better animation, new characters, a more ambitious plot and an even more emotionally charged adventure all help "Toy Story 2" rise above the crowd.

1. 'Toy Story 3' (2010)

This is the rare franchise that just seems to get better with age. "Toy Story 3" followed the example of its predecessor by expanding the scope delivering more of what fans love about the series. But what makes "Toy Story 3" one of Pixar's absolute best (sequel or no) is that it offers one of the studio's most heart-wrenching stories ever. It's a movie about the need to grow up, put away childish things and let the next generation have its fun. It's such a perfect ending to this trilogy that we can't help but wonder how "Toy Story 4" is supposed to keep the hot streak going.