Who is the most underrated animator in the industry?

Determining the “most underrated” animator can be subjective, as opinions vary widely based on personal preferences and industry knowledge. However, a few animators often cited for their significant yet underappreciated contributions include:

1. Bill Plympton: An independent animator known for his unique, hand-drawn style and distinctive storytelling. While he has garnered a cult following, many mainstream audiences are unaware of his work, which includes films like Guard Dog and Cheatin’.
2. Don Bluth: Although Bluth was prominent in the 1980s and 1990s with films like The Land Before Time and An American Tail, he often doesn’t receive the same recognition as Disney contemporaries. His films are beloved by many but remain overshadowed by Disney’s dominance in animation.
3. Nina Paley: An independent animator and director best known for her film Sita Sings the Blues, Paley combines personal storytelling with historical and cultural themes. Despite her innovative approach, she remains relatively unknown in mainstream circles.
4. Hayao Miyazaki: While highly respected in certain circles, Miyazaki’s work with Studio Ghibli often gets overshadowed by Western animation studios like Disney and Pixar. His films are masterful and have had a profound impact on the industry, yet he is sometimes underestimated in broader discussions.
5. Isao Takahata: Another co-founder of Studio Ghibli, Takahata directed critically acclaimed films like Grave of the Fireflies and The Tale of the Princess Kaguya. While respected, his contributions are often overlooked compared to Miyazaki’s.
6. Marjane Satrapi: Known for Persepolis, her work blends personal narrative with social commentary. While she has received accolades, her animation work is not as widely recognized as it deserves to be.
7. Bobby Pilgrim: An animator and director who has contributed to various projects, Pilgrim is known for his unique style and storytelling approach but is not as widely recognized as some of his contemporaries.

These animators have made significant contributions to the field, each with a unique style and vision, and deserve more recognition for their work in the industry.