Animated films aren’t going anywhere, but originality might be. As studios double down on familiar franchises, 2026 offers exciting risks and exhausting sequels.
Over the past year, animated films have dominated the box office, with hits like “Zootopia 2” proving that animated films can still be massive cultural and financial hits. The film earned 1.46 billion dollars, beating even “Frozen 2,” which was once considered the gold standard for success.
However, there has been a growing desire for originality. Studios continue to lean heavily on sequels and prequels, leaving audiences craving original intellectual property (IP) over what many see as “cash grab” releases. While 2026 is packed with sequels, it also brings a variety of original films, with standouts including Sony’s “GOAT” and Pixar’s “Hoppers.” From bold new originals to franchises that refuse to die, here are the animated films coming out this year and whether they’re actually worth your time.
The Originals
“GOAT” (Sony Pictures Animation, Feb. 13)
Sony’s recent animated films have been huge hits, with films like “KPop Demon Hunters” and “Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse” earning the studio billions. Their newest animated feature, “GOAT,” follows an underdog goat aiming to become a sports legend in a world that underestimates him. The film feels genuinely original, with a creative animation style (looking at you, Pixar, and your bean-mouth syndrome) and a unique plot. I’ve never watched an animated sports comedy, so I’m looking forward to this release. The film is set to come out Feb.13, right before Valentine’s Day, so it’s the perfect excuse to drag your partner to the theater. Or if you’re like me and a single pringle, you can go with your friends.
“Hoppers” (Pixar, March 6)
Pixar’s reputation for original storytelling has been shaky lately, especially after “Elio” turned out to be a massive loss for the studio. Now, the movie itself wasn’t bad, but it wasn’t anything remarkable either, making it a huge letdown for audiences hoping for Pixar’s return to former glory.
Their newest animated film, “Hoppers,” centers on a young girl who discovers technology that allows humans to transfer their consciousness into robotic animals. While the premise is intriguing, I have some issues. Firstly, the film uses the same visual style as previous films, with many in the animation industry growing tired of the “bean-mouth” style that Pixar has chosen to adopt. In addition, the film’s lead is a person of color, yet they turn her into an animal, following a tired trope of turning lead characters of color into animals (think “The Princess and the Frog” and “Brother Bear”). Though I’m happy that the company is still attempting to create originals, I remain skeptical of this film. I’ll be judging it in theaters on March 6, so talk to me then.
“Hexed” (Disney, Nov. 25)
Now this is an interesting one. Disney has’t released an animated original since the disaster that was “Wish” in 2023. “Hexed” follows a young protagonist caught in a magical mishap that turns their world upside down, forcing them to confront a curse. Honestly, I haven’t seen much information about this film, but given its late-November premiere, I’ll forgive Disney — for now. Personally, I’m very curious but also very cautious. This film could redeem Disney, but it could also ruin it, especially if the film flops like “Wish” did. Hopefully, a potential flop won’t discourage the company from continuing to create original IP, as the Mouse is currently focused solely on sequels and prequels. I’ll be hesitantly watching this one on Nov. 25.
Sequels: When is it Enough?
“The Super Mario Galaxy Movie” (Universal Pictures, April 1)
I’m going to be honest here: I am not a fan of video games. I’m horrendous at Mario Kart, and I have a personal grudge against Rainbow Road. That said, the first Super Mario film was surprisingly fun. The characters were entertaining, and I found myself enjoying the film, despite my general distaste for video games. The second installment in the franchise expands the Nintendo animated universe, following Mario and friends as they venture beyond the Mushroom Kingdom into space, facing new cosmic threats and allies.
My biggest hesitation is simply that it’s another sequel. It seems to be the new thing that animation studios are doing, and it’s really irritating. Still, given the success of the first one, I am cautiously optimistic. Maybe the second film will draw in more non-gamers like me, with the trailer having some hilarious moments. I’ll be seeing this one with my video game-obsessed brother on April 1 in theaters.
“Toy Story 5” (Pixar, June 19)
If I could yell through my screen, I would. I absolutely adore the “Toy Story” franchise, but this is where I draw the line. In my opinion, the franchise should have ended at “Toy Story 3.” Watching Andy grow up and pass the toys on to Bonnie was the best bittersweet ending I have ever seen, and it never fails to make me sob.
“Toy Story 4” wasn’t the worst watch — definitely unnecessary — but the ending did manage to make me cry again, so I’ll give it that. But the fifth installment is 100% pointless. For one, they literally left Woody and Bo Peep; how are they back again? In this one, the toys confront a new phase of change as toys face obsolescence in an increasingly digital world.
I am most definitely not excited for this one. This is a money-grab, with the company relying heavily on nostalgia rather than meaningful storytelling for revenue. It leaves fans wanting closure, yet the company’s drawn-out endings make me question whether they truly care about the franchise and its fans. I will be waiting for this film to come out on Disney+ because you will not catch me paying for this one. Okay, maybe you will, out of sheer curiosity, but I will be very mad about it. Catch me fuming in theaters on June 19.
“Minions 3” (Illumination, July 1)
I’ve never really felt as indifferent to a sequel as I do for this one. The first one was pretty entertaining; I literally had to look up the second one as it was so forgettable. There’s no real justification for a third installment beyond easy profit. In “Minions 3,” the minions embark on another globe-trotting misadventure filled with slapstick chaos and comedic side quests. Expect lots of fart and poop jokes and the occasional heartfelt moment. I really don’t have much to say about this one. You might see me in theaters on June 1 for this one, honestly, it depends on whether I want to drop 20 bucks to see the film or not.
“The Angry Birds Movie 3” (Paramount Pictures, Dec. 23)
You know, I was just recently watching a YouTube video on the downfall of the Angry Birds games and films, and that honestly says it all. Unlike the Super Mario films, there isn’t really any cultural relevance. Few still play the games, and I’m genuinely not sure who really wants this film. I don’t even really remember the first two.
The third one follows the same narrative as the first two, with the characters returning for another high-stakes adventure, uniting with unlikely allies to face a new threat. At best, the film feels outdated. For this one, I’m leaning towards skipping the film entirely, maybe catching it on streaming if it’s free somewhere. “The Angry Birds Movie 3” hits theaters on Dec. 23.
Reboots, Revivals and Adaptations: Familiar Stories, New Mediums
“The Legend of Aang: The Last Airbender” (Nickelodeon Animation Studios, Oct. 9, Paramount+ e
Raise your hands if you grew up watching “Avatar: The Last Airbender.” Unfortunately, my hand is not raised. However, I was cultured enough to watch it in my teen years, and my brain has been blessed for life. The show is an amazing depiction of love, loss, grief and friendship, packaged in a way that is perfect for both children and adults alike. Now, the movie has been long-awaited, having been famously delayed.
I have some good news and bad news. Though the movie will finally be released to the many Avatar fans out there, it will not be in theaters. The film will be exclusive to Paramount+, which means I’ll be forced to sign up for a free trial to be able to see it. The film promises to revisit Aang’s journey after the original series, exploring his role as Avatar while rebuilding a world after war. I personally am ecstatic for this release despite it having no theatrical run. I am very disappointed that I won’t be able to see this film in theaters, but I’ll be free-trialing my way to Paramount+ on Oct. 9.
“The Cat in the Hat” (Warner Bros., Nov. 6)
The only thing I remember from the live-action “The Cat in the Hat” was the horrifying Cat, played by Mike Myers. This reboot aims to get far, far away from the infamously unsettling live-action film, and thank goodness for that. The reboot brings the mischievous Cat back to bring chaos and imagination into the lives of two children during an otherwise dull day at home.
I’m honestly pretty happy that they chose to recreate the film through an animation medium. It feels very fitting with Suess’ style, as another iconic Suess movie “The Lorax” was also done through animation (and god do I love it). The trailer looks charming and just plain delightful, making me quite excited for it. I am also a fan of Bill Hader, and he’s voicing the Cat, so I’m looking forward to his portrayal of such a memorable character. You’ll be seeing me in theaters on Nov. 6, praying that the horrors of the Cat live-action do not continue.
“Animal Farm” (Angel Studios, May 1)
Most of you have likely read “Animal Farm” sometime in high school. Now, who was expecting an animated version of it? Definitely not me. This film stands out due to it being one of the most thematically complex animated films on the slate. The film is an animated retelling of George Orwell’s novel, following farm animals who overthrow their human owner only to face corruption within their own society.
I found the book to be very interesting, and overall, it was a very enjoyable read despite the dark dystopian themes present throughout the book. An animated adaptation of the book is a risky yet fitting move, and I’m interested to see how they choose to adapt it and whether they will water it down to try to appeal to a wide audience, which would be very disappointing. I hope the studio stays true to the book, as it presents some very important and relevant messages. This one is a definite must-watch, especially for fellow book lovers who found the book captivating. See me in theaters on May 1.
What 2026 Says About the Future of Animation
This year is a year filled with a mix of surprising adaptations, an unfortunate amount of sequels and some risky originals that might just be able to pull it off. Based on this year’s line-up, 2026 is not the best year for originality, as the sequels and adaptations far outnumber the original IP. However, I wouldn’t lose all hope. Films like “GOAT” and even Disney’s “Hexed” prove that originality isn’t dead just yet. Animation remains a thriving field, and studios like Sony will continue to push out originals.
Ultimately, 2026 reveals an animation industry that’s getting a little too comfortable relying on audience nostalgia. Studios know audiences will turn out for familiar characters and worlds, making sequels feel safe and reliable. But the films generating the most curiosity aren’t the reboots and sequels — it’s the originals. They’re the risks, reminding us of the power of animated storytelling. The real test this year isn’t whether the sequels will make money — because I guarantee they will — but whether audiences will show up in support for new ideas loudly enough to prove to the animation industry that originality is worth it.
