2025 was a fantastic year for animation, with popular movies like Zootopia 2 and the surprisingly successful KPop Demon Hunters, which also played in cinemas. Now, looking ahead to 2026, there are a lot of promising animated films on the way. Here’s a breakdown of the 7 most anticipated, ranked from most to least exciting.
7. Hexed
Okay, I have to start with Disney’s Hexed – it was a brand new reveal at D23 and I’m already so excited! Right now, all we’ve gotten is the logo and one absolutely stunning piece of art (you can check it out above). Honestly, that’s why it’s a little lower on my list of most anticipated films, but the fact that Jose Trinidad (who worked on Zootopia+) and Jason Hand (Moana 2) are involved is already building a ton of hype. I can’t wait to see more!
Hexed is a story about a clumsy teenager and his overbearing mother who discover he has magical abilities. This revelation will change their lives and reveal a hidden world of magic. The film is scheduled for release in November 2026.
6. Animal Farm
Now, let’s talk about Angel Studios and their new animated movie based on George Orwell’s Animal Farm. While Animal Farm has been adapted before, this version feels different. Director Andy Serkis seems to be balancing the book’s serious themes with comedy and a lighter tone.
The trailer for the new Animal Farm movie looks fantastic, and it features a huge cast of well-known actors, including Seth Rogen, Gaten Matarazzo, Steve Buscemi, Glenn Close, Laverne Cox, Kieran Culkin, Woody Harrelson, Jim Parsons, Kathleen Turner, and Iman Velanni. It will be released in theaters on May 1, 2026.
5. Minions 3
The popular Minions from Despicable Me are returning for a third movie, with Brian Lynch writing the script and Pierre Coffin directing. While the plot is still a secret, after the enjoyable Minions: The Rise of Gru and the success of the earlier films, we can expect another funny and entertaining adventure. Minions 3 is scheduled to be released in theaters on July 1, 2026.
4. Hoppers
Pixar has a lot planned for 2026, starting with the animated comedy Hoppers. This film combines a science fiction story with the humor of a lively family, and it looks like it could be another surprising success from the studio we all love.
The upcoming film, Hoppers, centers around Mabel, an animal enthusiast who uses a new technology to experience life as robotic animals. This lets her communicate with real animals, leading to plenty of funny situations. With its charming visuals and lovable animal characters, Hoppers promises to be a delightful adventure. It’s scheduled for release in theaters on March 6, 2026.
3. The Legend of Aang: The Last Airbender
Fans were excited for the animated film The Legend of Aang: The Last Airbender, but it will now premiere exclusively on Paramount+. The story follows an adult Aang as he uncovers a powerful, ancient force with the potential to save the world. He and his friends embark on a quest to secure this power before it’s exploited by those with malicious intent.
Not much is known about the history behind the story, but this will be the first time audiences have seen Aang as an adult, beyond the glimpses of his past in The Legend of Korra. Fans are excited for more from The Last Airbender universe, and the new series, The Legend of Aang: The Last Airbender, will be available on Paramount+ starting October 9, 2026.
2. The Super Mario Galaxy Movie
The first Super Mario Bros. Movie was a huge success with moviegoers, and a sequel, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, is coming out this year. The new film will be based on one of the most beloved Mario games and will bring back the original cast, including Jack Black and Chris Pratt.
The upcoming movie will feature beloved characters from the games, like Rosalina (played by Brie Larson) and Bowser Jr. (played by Benny Safdie). Given the success of the first film, this one is expected to be a huge hit when it releases later this year. Hopefully, we’ll even see Yoshi make an appearance! The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is scheduled to be in theaters on April 3, 2026.
1. Toy Story 5
Pixar is revisiting the world of Toy Story, a franchise fans adore. Even after five movies, the story still feels fresh and important. This time, Woody and the gang encounter a new challenge: the digital age. When Bonnie receives a tablet, the toys must navigate a battle between traditional play and screens.
The idea behind the new Toy Story movie feels very relevant to what’s happening in the world today, and Pixar is the perfect studio to tell that story in a way that really resonates with audiences. They’ve consistently delivered excellent films, and it’s likely Toy Story 5, coming to theaters on June 19, 2026, will be no different.
What do you think? Leave a comment below and join the conversation now in the ComicBook Forum!
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2026-01-25 03:11