Pixar Unveils New Films and Updates on Upcoming Projects
Pixar has made several exciting announcements at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, revealing new details and visuals for their upcoming movies. Among the highlights are the debut of Gatto, updates on Toy Story 5, and a sneak peek of Hopper’s new adventure. Fans can look forward to a diverse lineup of stories blending heartfelt emotion with innovative storytelling.
Gatto: A Venice-set Tale of a Black Cat
Leading the charge is Gatto, directed by Enrico Casarosa, the talented filmmaker behind Luca. Set in the picturesque city of Venice, Italy, the film follows Nero, a black cat who finds himself deeply indebted to a feline mob boss. Despite his tough circumstances, Nero’s story promises a journey of friendship and self-discovery.
At the festival, additional details about Gatto were shared, including Nero’s dislike of water—an ironic twist given Venice’s canals. The plot thickens when Nero encounters Maya, a lonely street musician, and is compelled to build an unexpected friendship that could lead him to uncover his true purpose. The film is slated for release in summer 2027, promising a charming blend of adventure and heart.
Toy Story 5: Exploring the Clash Between Toys and Technology
Pixar also provided a fresh glimpse into Toy Story 5, which is generating buzz among fans eager for the next chapter. Confirmed to return is Joan Cusack as Jessie, and a new concept image showcases Jessie, Buzz Lightyear, and Bullseye engaging with a friendly-looking tech device called Lillypad. This tablet-like gadget symbolizes the new technological world that toys must navigate.
Set in a time when Bonnie, now eight years old, receives her first tablet, the story will explore the tension between traditional toys and the digital age. Woody, Buzz, and friends will face challenges posed by electronic devices, emphasizing themes about the impact of technology on childhood play.
Pixar also shared a teaser of the opening scene, where Buzz Lightyear’s spacecraft awakens on a deserted island, struggling to reconnect with Star Command. This sets the stage for an exciting adventure centered on how toys adapt to a rapidly changing world.
Hopper’s New Adventure: Saving the Woodland
An additional highlight was the first look at Hopper’s, scheduled for release on March 6, 2026. The film tells the story of Mabel, a young girl determined to prevent a highway from destroying her local woodland home. Portrayed by Piper Curda, Mabel uncovers a daring plan involving a secret brain-swapping experiment to control a robotic beaver.
To save her environment, Mabel ventures to a pond where the beaver and other animals are gathering to oppose the construction. She must persuade allies like King George, voiced by Bobby Moynihan, and rally the woodland creatures to stand against Mayor Jerry, played by Jon Hamm. This eco-themed story promises a mix of humor, heroism, and environmental awareness.
Preview of Elio: An Intergalactic Adventure
Attendees at Annecy also received a 27-minute preview of Elio, set to hit theaters on June 20, 2025. The film follows a young boy who dreams of being abducted by aliens. His wish unexpectedly comes true when he is mistaken for Earth’s intergalactic ambassador, leading to a series of humorous and heartwarming encounters.
Additional Pixar News and Future Attractions
Beyond these projects, Pixar teased upcoming attractions and developments, including a new Coco ride at Disneyland, an exciting summer campaign at Walt Disney World, and the rebranding of Cars Land at Magic Kingdom to Piston Peak National Park. Fans can stay tuned for more updates on these immersive experiences.
For more insights into Pixar and Disney’s latest, keep an eye on upcoming movie releases and theme park openings that continue to enchant audiences of all ages.
Adam Bankhurst is a writer for IGN. Follow him on social media platforms such as X/Twitter @AdamBankhurst, Instagram, and TikTok. He also hosts the show Talking Disney Magic.
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