Which 1990's animated Disney film earned an Academy Award nomination in the category of Best Picture?

Released in 1991, Disney's "Beauty and the Beast" made history by becoming the first full-length animated feature film ever to receive an Academy Award nomination in the coveted Best Picture category. This groundbreaking recognition at the 64th Academy Awards ceremony in 1992 was a significant moment for animation, as animated films were traditionally not considered for the top Oscar prize. The film's blend of enchanting storytelling, emotional depth, stunning hand-drawn visuals, and unforgettable music captivated audiences and critics alike, proving that animated features could stand alongside live-action dramas in artistic merit.

Before "Beauty and the Beast," animated movies were often relegated to special awards or overlooked in major categories. The Academy didn't even introduce a separate category for Best Animated Feature until 2001, almost a decade after "Beauty and the Beast"'s historic nod. This nomination helped redefine perceptions of animation, elevating it beyond mere children's entertainment and showcasing its potential for complex narratives and profound themes. While "Beauty and the Beast" ultimately did not win Best Picture, losing to "The Silence of the Lambs," it did take home Oscars for Best Original Score and Best Original Song.

The impact of "Beauty and the Beast"'s nomination resonated for years, paving the way for future animated films to be recognized for their cinematic excellence. Since then, only two other animated films have received a Best Picture nomination: "Up" in 2009 and "Toy Story 3" in 2010. Both of these nominations occurred after the Academy expanded the number of Best Picture nominees from five to ten, making "Beauty and the Beast"'s achievement even more remarkable as it was nominated during the five-nominee format. This pioneering Disney classic remains a testament to the power of animation as a storytelling medium capable of earning the highest accolades in the film industry.