Get ready for an animated blockbuster bonanza that's set to captivate audiences worldwide! As 2025 wrapped up with animation reigning supreme at the box office—led by the staggering $2.21 billion haul of Ne Zha 2, the ongoing success of Walt Disney Animation's Zootopia 2 since its late November debut, and Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle's impressive $759.3 million—it's clear the animated realm is more vibrant than ever. Anime, in particular, has surged to new heights, with hits like Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc and compilation releases such as Jujutsu Kaisen: Execute mimicking, albeit on a smaller scale, the phenomenal earnings of Demon Slayer. But here's where it gets controversial: Could 2026 shift the tides, or will it just perpetuate the endless cycle of sequels and remakes that many fans are starting to question?
Looking ahead, with Walt Disney Animation reclaiming its glory in 2025, the spotlight now turns to its sibling studio, Pixar, poised to make a comeback with Hoppers and Toy Story 5. Will these offerings revive Pixar's legacy in computer-generated storytelling and box office triumphs? And this is the part most people miss—could we see groundbreaking originals like Netflix and Sony Pictures Animation's KPop Demon Hunters breaking through, or is the year destined to fortify the parade of familiar franchises?
To keep you in the loop, we've compiled a detailed calendar of animated features slated for U.S. release in 2026. We'll refresh this list as fresh updates roll in throughout the year, ensuring you're always up-to-date.
JANUARY
Lupin The IIIRD: The Movie – The Immortal Bloodline (https://www.cartoonbrew.com/anime/takeshi-koike-lupin-iii-redline-256426.html)
Director: Takeshi Koike
Production Companies: Chûôkôron Shinsha, Telecom Animation Film
U.S. Distributor: GKIDS
Release Date: January 4–6
Kicking off the year is the first Lupin feature in six years, The Immortal Bloodline, where the iconic thief Lupin III and his team chase a mysterious invite to an unexplored island, diving into thrilling new escapades.
Charlie the Wonderdog (https://www.cartoonbrew.com/distribution/viva-kids-charlie-the-wonderdog-theatrical-256361.html)
Director: Shea Wageman
Production Company: ICON Creative Studio
U.S. Distributor: VivaKids
Release Date: January 16
This computer-generated animated tale centers on a timid boy who daydreams about heroic quests with his canine companion, Charlie—voiced by the charismatic Owen Wilson. But when aliens kidnap Charlie and endow him with genuine superpowers, he transforms into the ultimate hero, saving the day in ways that might even inspire young viewers to believe in their own pets' potential.
All You Need Is Kill (aka Ôru Yû Nîdo Izu Kiru) (https://www.cartoonbrew.com/anime/studio-4oc-founder-eiko-tanaka-interview-257652.html)
Directors: Ken’ichirô Akimoto, Yukinori Nakamura
Production Company: Studio 4°C
U.S. Distributor: GKIDS
Release Date: January 16
Adapted from Hiroshi Sakurazaka’s 2004 light novel, illustrated by Yoshitoshi Abe (which you might recognize from the 2014 live-action film Edge of Tomorrow starring Tom Cruise and directed by Doug Liman), this anime rendition offers a fresh anime perspective that differentiates it from prior versions, exploring themes of time loops and survival in a way that's accessible even if you're new to the genre.
Cosmic Princess Kaguya! (https://www.cartoonbrew.com/anime/netflix-shingo-yamashita-cosmic-princess-kaguya-257224.html)
Director: Shingo Yamashita
Production Companies: Chromadog Studios, Studio Colorido
U.S. Distributor: Netflix
Release Date: January 26
As Shingo Yamashita's first full-length film and an original anime creation, Cosmic Princess Kaguya! reinterprets Japan's ancient folktale, The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter, for modern times. Blending classic 2D animation with innovative 3D techniques and a custom soundtrack, it's generating buzz among anime enthusiasts eager for his fresh vision.
FEBRUARY
The Last Whale Singer (https://www.cartoonbrew.com/feature-film/the-last-whale-singer-trailer-afm-global-constellation-256568.html)
Director: Reza Memari
Production Companies: Telescope Animation, PFX, La Boîte à Fanny
U.S. Distributor: VivaKids
Release Date: February 12
This computer-generated underwater odyssey brings ocean life to life with personalities, as a self-doubting young humpback whale uncovers that his enchanting melody holds the key to rescuing the seas from a menacing threat. Telescope's summary highlights the journey of facing inner fears, a concept that resonates universally and might encourage kids to think about their own confidence.
GOAT (https://www.cartoonbrew.com/feature-film/sony-goat-trailer-steph-curry-tyree-dillihay-248990.html)
Directors: Tyree Dillihay, Adam Rosette
Production Companies: Modern Magic, Sony Pictures Animation, Unanimous Media
U.S. Distributor: Sony Pictures Releasing
Release Date: February 13
Sony Pictures highlights this film by noting its producer Stephen Curry and the talented team behind Spider-Verse and KPop Demon Hunters. GOAT tells an original tale of an underdog named Will, who aspires to excel in roar-ball—a sport in a world where animals rule—and gets his shot at the big leagues, proving that with heart, anyone can rise to the top.
MARCH
Hoppers (https://www.cartoonbrew.com/feature-film/pixar-extended-trailer-daniel-chong-hoppers-256912.html)
Director: Daniel Chong
Production Company: Pixar Animation Studios
U.S. Distributor: Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
Release Date: March 6
Marking We Bare Bears creator Daniel Chong's debut as a feature director, Hoppers delivers Pixar's humorous spin on Avatar. Mabel, a passionate animal enthusiast, finds her mind swapped into a beaver's body, sparking a rebellion against human expansion—a storyline that playfully explores environmental themes and identity.
APRIL
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie (https://www.cartoonbrew.com/feature-film/the-super-mario-galaxy-movie-trailer-256640.html)
Directors: Aaron Horvath, Michael Jelenic
Production Companies: Illumination, Nintendo
U.S. Distributor: Universal Pictures
Release Date: April 3
Horvath and Jelenic return for another Mushroom Kingdom escapade, joining Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and Toad in a cosmic adventure against Bowser's offspring, Bowser Jr. Plus, it introduces Princess Rosalina, voiced by Brie Larson, adding fresh characters to the beloved universe.
MAY
Animal Farm (https://www.cartoonbrew.com/feature-film/animal-farm-trailer-release-date-angel-257556.html)
Director: Andy Serkis
Production Companies: Imaginarium Productions, Aniventure
U.S. Distributor: Angel
Release Date: May (exact date not specified)
Since 2022, this third cinematic take on George Orwell’s 1945 novella Animal Farm adopts a lighthearted, revisionist tone—though some purists might argue it strays from the original's darker satire. Despite the shift, Serkis has enlisted a star-studded voice cast including Seth Rogen, Glenn Close, Kieran Culkin, and himself, promising an entertaining twist on classic allegory.
JUNE
Toy Story 5
Director: Andrew Stanton
Production Company: Pixar Animation Studios
U.S. Distributor: Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
Release Date: June 19
Andrew Stanton, a key architect of the franchise, returns to direct. Now eight, Bonnie's new tablet causes chaos among the toys as they vie for her focus, delving into themes of change and relevance that feel increasingly relevant in our tech-driven world.
JULY
Minions 3
Director: Pierre Coffin
Production Company: Illumination
U.S. Distributor: Universal Pictures
Release Date: July 1
Continuing the exploits of the mischievous yellow Minions, this third installment in the $5 billion-earning series remains a summer staple, blending humor and chaos in ways that keep families coming back year after year.
AUGUST
Paw Patrol: The Dino Movie (https://www.cartoonbrew.com/feature-film/paramount-significantly-delays-two-of-its-animated-features-247299.html)
Director: Cal Brunker
Production Companies: Nickelodeon Movies, Domain Entertainment, Spin Master Entertainment
U.S. Distributor: Paramount Distribution
Release Date: August 14
Dogs saving the day is a timeless theme, and the third Paw Patrol adventure reunites the creative minds behind the series, with animation crafted by Mikros Image in Montreal.
Coyote vs. Acme (https://www.cartoonbrew.com/feature-film/i-saw-coyote-vs-acme-and-its-as-wonderful-as-everyone-says-it-is-234963.html)
Director: Dave Green
Production Company: Warner Bros. Pictures Animation
U.S. Distributor: Ketchup Entertainment
Release Date: August 28
Dubbed the 'miracle release' of 2026, Coyote vs. Acme barely avoided being scrapped as a tax loss before Ketchup Entertainment rescued it. Finally, viewers can witness Wile E. Coyote's epic lawsuit against Acme for their defective gadgets, offering a meta-take on cartoon tropes that might divide fans on whether it's respectful or too satirical.
SEPTEMBER
Forgotten Island (https://www.cartoonbrew.com/feature-film/dreamworks-announces-original-filipino-themed-film-forgotten-island-246811.html)
Director: Joel Crawford, Januel Mercado
Production Company: DreamWorks Animation
U.S. Distributor: Universal Pictures
Release Date: September 25
Two inseparable friends wind up on a magical island where lost memories materialize, compelling them to decide between escaping home or preserving the past that bonds them—a poignant story that subtly touches on themes of nostalgia and growth.
OCTOBER
The Legend of Aang: The Last Airbender (https://www.cartoonbrew.com/feature-film/avatar-legend-of-aang-straight-to-paramount-plus-257796.html)
Director: Lauren Montgomery
Production Companies: Nickelodeon Movies, Avatar Studios
U.S. Distributor: Paramount Pictures
Release Date: October 9
Picking up after The Legend of Korra, this Avatar sequel matures the characters into young adults. Directed by Lauren Montgomery, a veteran of the series, it was controversially pulled from theaters for direct-to-streaming, disappointing fans who hoped for a big-screen reunion.
Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom (https://www.cartoonbrew.com/feature-film/shaun-the-sheep-beast-of-mossy-bottom-first-look-256296.html)
Directors: Steve Cox, Matthew Walker
Production Company: Aardman Animations
U.S. Distributor: StudioCanal
Release Date: October 31
Wrapping up the Shaun the Sheep trilogy, this entry leans into a creepier vibe perfect for Halloween, showcasing Aardman's signature stop-motion charm.
NOVEMBER
The Cat in the Hat (https://www.cartoonbrew.com/feature-film/warner-bros-pictures-animation-unpacks-first-the-cat-in-the-hat-trailer-248198.html)
Directors: Erica Rivinoja, Alessandro Carloni
Production Companies: Warner Bros. Pictures Animation, DNEG Animation
U.S. Distributor: Warner Bros.
Release Date: November 6
Led by DNEG Animation, this fresh interpretation of Dr. Seuss's classic features Bill Hader as the playful Cat, bringing whimsical mischief to a new generation.
Hexed (https://www.cartoonbrew.com/feature-film/disney-animation-unveils-new-original-film-hexed-coming-november-2026-253541.html)
Directors: Josie Trinidad, Jason Hand
Production Company: Walt Disney Animation Studios
U.S. Distributor: Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
Release Date: November 25
Focusing on a socially awkward teen whose hidden powers are unearthed by his overachieving mom, Hexed weaves a magical tale of self-discovery and family dynamics.
DECEMBER
The Angry Birds Movie 3
Director: John Rice
Production Companies: Rovio Animation, DNEG Animation, Flywheel Media
U.S. Distributor: Paramount Distribution
Release Date: December 23
The feathered fury continues in this third installment, promising more slingshot action and avian antics.
UNDATED, BUT SCHEDULED FOR 2026
This category includes exciting projects like the Untitled Peanuts Movie (https://www.cartoonbrew.com/feature-film/apple-orders-new-cg-peanuts-feature-from-the-peanuts-movie-director-steve-martino-234553.html), A New Dawn, Wildwood (https://www.cartoonbrew.com/feature-film/laika-wildwood-teasaer-stop-motion-256163.html), Ray Gunn (https://www.cartoonbrew.com/feature-film/cinesite-is-hiring-for-brad-birds-ray-gunn-which-is-now-in-production-246738.html), Steps (https://www.cartoonbrew.com/feature-film/netflix-steps-alyce-tzue-john-ripa-257429.html), Swapped (https://www.cartoonbrew.com/feature-film/swapped-pookoo-netflix-skydance-animation-256834.html), and We Are Aliens. Each of these holds potential to surprise and delight, with diverse styles from CG revivals to stop-motion wonders.
What Do You Think?
With so many sequels flooding the schedule, do you believe original stories will finally get their due, or is this just more of the remake mania? And let's debate: Is aging up characters in franchises like Avatar a smart evolution or a risky gamble that could alienate fans? Share your thoughts, predictions, and hot takes in the comments below—we'd love to hear your take!
