Tracking Netflix’s evolving animated feature film slate presents a dynamic challenge, as exciting new announcements frequently emerge while other projects quietly adjust their timelines or are re-evaluated. Following the recent release of Swapped, and on the cusp of significant industry events like Annecy 2026, it is an opportune moment to take comprehensive stock of the animated films Netflix is poised to deliver from the remainder of 2026 into the distant future. This overview excludes several previously announced titles whose futures with the streamer have become uncertain or have been outright cancelled, such as Red Wall, which was recently confirmed as scrapped, and Ron Howard’s The Shrinking of Treehorn, now reportedly disconnected from Netflix. Similarly, Prince of Port Au Prince and The Witch Boy, among others, remain in limbo, while Guillermo del Toro’s The Buried Giant and an untitled Don Hall film from Skydance Animation have also been omitted from the current confirmed slate.
Netflix’s Strategic Investment in Animation
Netflix has consistently demonstrated a robust commitment to original animated content, recognizing its vital role in attracting and retaining diverse global subscribers, particularly families. This strategic investment is evident in its burgeoning partnerships with established animation powerhouses like Sony Pictures Animation and Skydance Animation, alongside its cultivation of internal animation studios. The platform’s approach involves a blend of high-profile, star-studded productions and critically acclaimed independent features, aiming to cater to a wide spectrum of tastes from broad family comedies to niche, artistic stop-motion narratives. The upcoming slate reflects this multi-faceted strategy, showcasing both sequels to proven hits and ambitious new ventures from celebrated filmmakers.
Upcoming Animated Features: A Detailed Look
I Am Frankelda (Soy Frankelda) – June 16th, 2026
Directors / Writers: Arturo Ambriz and Roy Ambriz
Voice Cast: Assira Abbate, Anahí Allué, Lourdes Ambriz, Antonio Badía, Gabriela Cárdenas, Sergio Carranza, Beto Castillo, and Jesse Conde
Genre: Stop-Motion Animation, Fantasy, Musical
Language: Spanish
Runtime: 114 Minutes
Netflix Release Date: June 16th, 2026
A beacon for stop-motion animation enthusiasts, I Am Frankelda, originally titled Soy Frankelda, is poised to make its global Netflix debut in June 2026. This Mexican animated feature, a creation of the acclaimed Ambriz Brothers (Arturo and Roy Ambriz), arrives with the notable endorsement and full support of Oscar-winning filmmaker Guillermo del Toro, a figure synonymous with championing distinctive and dark fantasy animation. Del Toro’s involvement underscores the film’s artistic merit and potential for critical acclaim, drawing parallels to his own celebrated stop-motion works.
The film targets fans of dark, female-led fantasy narratives imbued with a creature-feature sensibility. Set against the rich, atmospheric backdrop of 19th-century Mexico, the story centers on Frankelda, a writer of macabre tales whose creative vision is consistently marginalized and dismissed by conventional society. Her refusal to silence her unique voice propels the narrative, which takes a fantastical turn when she is unexpectedly plunged into the depths of her own subconscious. Here, the terrifying monsters and creatures born from her imagination materialize into living entities, blurring the lines between reality and fiction.
The production benefits from an impressive behind-the-scenes team, including production designer Bruce Zick, known for his evocative visual storytelling, and a musical score crafted by Kevin Smithers, which promises to enhance the film’s atmospheric and emotional resonance. Notably, I Am Frankelda has already enjoyed a limited theatrical release, demonstrating its appeal by generating over $880,000 at the worldwide box office prior to its streaming availability. This pre-release success often signals strong audience engagement and critical appreciation. With its distinctive blend of period-piece drama, emergent feminist themes, integrated musical numbers, and breathtaking stop-motion artistry, I Am Frankelda is anticipated to be one of Netflix’s standout animation offerings of the summer, further solidifying the streamer’s commitment to diverse, international storytelling.
Steps – 2026 TBD
Directors: Alyce Tzue and John Ripa
Producers: Jane Hartwell, Kim Lessing, and Amy Poehler
Animation Studio: Paper Kite Productions / Netflix
Voice Cast: Ali Wong, Stephanie Hsu, and Amanda Seyfried
Genre: 3D/CGI Animation, Fantasy, Comedy, Family
Expected Netflix Release Date: 2026 TBD
Steps, produced under Amy Poehler’s Paper Kite Productions banner, offers a refreshing reinterpretation of the classic Cinderella narrative. This 3D animated comedy ingeniously shifts the focus to Cinderella’s often-maligned "evil" stepsisters, aiming to infuse Netflix’s animated library with a unique take on fairy tale magic. The project, currently in its post-production phase after concluding its primary production cycle in early 2026, boasts an exceptionally strong comedic voice cast, signaling a high-quality production designed for broad family appeal.
Comedy luminary Ali Wong lends her distinctive voice to Lilith, while Stephanie Hsu, fresh off her breakout role in Everything Everywhere All at Once, voices her sister Margot. The role of Cinderella herself is taken by the versatile Amanda Seyfried, completing a formidable trio. The narrative premise is particularly compelling: "Think you know Cinderella’s ‘evil’ stepsisters? Think again! When misunderstood Lilith is blamed for hijacking the Royal Ball with a stolen magic wand, she accidentally turns her sister Margot into a frog and leaves the kingdom in the hands of a prince-obsessed mean girl. Now Lilith must team up with Cinderella (and a surprisingly dreamy troll) to save the kingdom, repair the fractured fairytale, and prove that even so-called villains deserve a shot at happily-ever-after."
Further bolstering its comedic credentials, musical comedy duo Riki Lindhome and Kate Micucci, widely recognized as Garfunkel and Oates, serve as Executive Producers, having also contributed to the initial scriptwriting. The film’s visual world is brought to life by production designer Shelly Wan, promising a vibrant and engaging CGI environment. This clever subversion of traditional tropes, combined with a powerhouse ensemble of comedic talent, positions Steps as a highly anticipated and potentially impactful animated release for Netflix, offering a fresh perspective on a timeless story.
Ray Gunn – Late 2026
Director: Brad Bird
Writers: Brad Bird and Matthew Robbins
Animation Studio: Skydance Animation
Voice Cast: Sam Rockwell, Scarlett Johansson, Tom Waits, and John Ratzenberger
Genre: 3D Sci-Fi, Action / Adventure, Comedy
Expected Netflix Release Date: Late 2026
Among the most eagerly anticipated upcoming animated projects on Netflix is Ray Gunn, a major feature from Skydance Animation. This film marks the return of legendary animation director Brad Bird, the visionary behind Pixar’s critically acclaimed The Incredibles, Ratatouille, and the seminal The Iron Giant. Bird’s involvement alone generates significant industry buzz, given his track record for crafting animated films that combine compelling narratives with groundbreaking visual styles and emotional depth. Ray Gunn has been a long-gestating project, adding to the anticipation surrounding its eventual release.
The 3D action-adventure promises an inventive fusion of sci-fi elements, comedic timing, and classic film noir detective tropes, all presented in a package broadly accessible to families. It stands as the third exclusive film to reach Netflix from the fruitful partnership with Skydance Animation, following Spellbound and Swapped, further cementing Skydance’s role as a key content provider for the streamer. The official logline sets a captivating scene: "Set in Metropia, a gigantic city in an alternate future as seen from 1939, the story follows private eye Raymond Gunn, who is drawn into a case involving aliens, murder, and a multimedia star named Venus Nova."
The film’s retro-futuristic aesthetic, described as a "1930s vision of the future," is particularly intriguing, promising a unique visual identity that blends vintage sensibilities with speculative technology. This distinctive style, combined with Bird’s renowned storytelling prowess, positions Ray Gunn as a potentially groundbreaking animated work. The voice cast is exceptionally strong, featuring the talents of Academy Award-winner Sam Rockwell, global superstar Scarlett Johansson, iconic musician and actor Tom Waits, and Pixar veteran John Ratzenberger, whose presence in a Brad Bird film is a familiar and welcome sight for animation aficionados. Behind the scenes, Bird has notably reunited with frequent collaborator and iconic composer Michael Giacchino, whose scores for The Incredibles, The Batman, and Up have earned widespread acclaim, ensuring an evocative and memorable musical landscape for Ray Gunn.
Charlie vs. the Chocolate Factory – 2027
Directors: Elaine Bogan and Jared Stern
Producers: Aron Warner and Timothy Yoo
Animation Studio: Sony Pictures Animation / Netflix
Voice Cast: Taika Waititi and Kit Connor
Genre: Action / Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Musical
Expected Netflix Release Date: 2027
Confirmed for a 2027 release, Charlie vs. the Chocolate Factory proposes a provocative and humorous premise: exploring the consequences for Willy Wonka after an incident in the original Charlie and the Chocolate Factory involving a child transforming into a giant blueberry. This imaginative continuation of Roald Dahl’s beloved universe reflects Netflix’s broader strategy of investing heavily in the Dahl catalog, aiming to create interconnected stories and expand on familiar characters in novel ways.
The official logline provides a glimpse into this musical adventure: "After Wonka is released from prison for the crime of turning a child into a blueberry in the original Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, he returns to his factory determined to add a little sweetness to a bitter world. But one thing stands in his way: teenager Charlie Paley and his friends. Facing eviction, this next generation of rotten kids plot to break into the factory, steal a priceless Wonka Bar, and save their homes. But like many before them who enter the fantastical world of the factory, they’re in for a bit more than they can chew."
Set in contemporary London, the film is under the direction of Elaine Bogan, known for Spirit Untamed, and Jared Stern, who helmed DC League of Super-Pets. This directorial duo brings experience in both family-friendly narratives and action-comedy. The announced voice cast is particularly exciting: Heartstopper fan-favorite Kit Connor is set to voice Charlie Paley, the teenage mastermind of the heist. The eccentric chocolatier Willy Wonka will be voiced by the inimitable Taika Waititi (Thor: Ragnarok, Jojo Rabbit), who also serves as an Executive Producer on the project. Waititi’s unique comedic sensibility and distinctive voice are expected to bring a fresh, perhaps even more whimsical, dimension to the iconic character, distinguishing this iteration from previous cinematic portrayals. This project is a significant addition to Netflix’s expanding Roald Dahl universe, following other adaptations and explorations of his imaginative worlds.
The Mitchells vs. the Machines 2 (Working The Mitchells vs. the Mitchells) – TBA
Directors: Guillermo Martinez and JP Sans
Writers: Wendy Molyneux and Lizzie Molyneux-Logelin
Producers: Phil Lord, Christopher Miller, and Kurt Albrecht
Animation Studio: Sony Pictures Animation / Lord Miller
Genre: 3D Sci-Fi, Family, Comedy, Sequel
Expected Netflix Release Date: TBA
Audiences are preparing for another chaotic yet heartwarming family road trip with the official sequel to the Oscar-nominated 2021 hit, The Mitchells vs. the Machines. The original film, acquired by Netflix during the pandemic, became a monumental success for the streamer, garnering critical acclaim for its innovative animation style, sharp humor, and profound exploration of family dynamics in the face of a robot apocalypse. The immense popularity and widespread adoration for the first installment made a follow-up an almost inevitable decision for Netflix.
While precise plot details for the sequel remain largely under wraps, the working title, The Mitchells vs. the Mitchells, offers an intriguing hint at the narrative direction. A brief tease of the storyline suggests a fascinating evolution: "While the first film saw the Mitchells, a fairly mild-mannered American family, take on the robot apocalypse, the sequel sees them encounter something even stranger and more dangerous — themselves." This concept promises a deeper dive into the family’s internal dynamics, potentially exploring themes of identity, self-perception, and the complexities of familial bonds, all within the signature chaotic and visually inventive style established by the original.
There is a slight shift in the creative leadership behind the scenes, though the project remains in exceptionally capable hands. Michael Rianda, co-writer and director of the acclaimed first film, returns as an Executive Producer alongside Aditya Sood. The highly influential producing duo Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, known for their groundbreaking work on films like Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse and The Lego Movie, are also back to produce under their Lord Miller banner, ensuring the continuation of the franchise’s innovative and irreverent spirit.
Stepping into the directorial chairs are Guillermo Martinez and JP Sans. Martinez makes his directorial debut, but he is intimately familiar with the Mitchell family’s world, having served as the head of story on the original film. His impressive resume also includes contributions to LAIKA’s Kubo and the Two Strings and Sony’s Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, indicating a strong understanding of complex animation and narrative. Co-director JP Sans recently completed co-directing duties on The Bad Guys 2, further solidifying the directorial team’s experience in successful animated features. The screenplay is being crafted by the talented Molyneux sisters, Wendy Molyneux and Lizzie Molyneux-Logelin, whose comedic writing promises to maintain the series’ signature wit and charm. The combination of returning producers and experienced new directors suggests a sequel that will build upon the original’s success while introducing fresh perspectives and challenges for the beloved Mitchell family.
Untitled Ghostbusters Animated Feature – TBA
Director: Kris Pearn
Studio: Sony Pictures / Netflix
Genre: Creature / Monster, Fantasy, Family
Expected Netflix Release Date: TBA
The iconic Ghostbusters franchise is expanding its animated universe on Netflix, with the streamer developing a wholly separate new animated feature film alongside an upcoming animated series. This initiative highlights Netflix’s commitment to leveraging established, beloved intellectual properties to draw in a wide audience, tapping into the enduring appeal of the paranormal investigators.
Given that the project is still in its nascent "In Development" phase, specific plot details are, predictably, being kept tightly under wraps—or, as fans might playfully suggest, "locked safely inside the Ecto-Containment Unit!" It remains unconfirmed whether this animated feature will follow the lineage of the Spengler family, as seen in the recent live-action films, or if it will revisit the original crew, or even introduce an entirely new generation of paranormal exterminators. This flexibility allows for creative freedom in storytelling and character development within the beloved universe.
However, the identity of the director has been confirmed: Kris Pearn. An animation veteran, Pearn is a familiar name to Netflix subscribers, having previously directed the successful 2020 Netflix original animated film The Willoughbys, which was praised for its distinctive visual style and quirky humor. His directorial credits also include Sony’s Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2, demonstrating his experience with large-scale animated productions and comedic storytelling. Pearn’s involvement suggests a film that will likely blend humor with the supernatural elements inherent to the Ghostbusters brand, appealing to both long-time fans and new audiences. The project’s early stage implies a significant production timeline, typical for ambitious animated features, with further details on cast and narrative expected to emerge as development progresses.
Untitled Jack and the Beanstalk Project – TBA
Director: Rich Moore
Producer: John Lasseter
Animation Studio: Skydance Animation / Netflix
Genre: Fantasy, Family
Expected Netflix Release Date: TBA
Netflix’s extensive, multi-year partnership with Skydance Animation continues to yield a robust pipeline of animated content, culminating in this upcoming untitled Jack and the Beanstalk project. This film will be Skydance Animation’s fourth movie for Netflix, underscoring the strength and productivity of their collaboration. It represents a fresh animated interpretation of the classic fable, promising to deliver a unique twist on the well-known story of Jack, his cow, and the formidable giant in the clouds.
While a detailed logline or in-depth information about the narrative specifics is not yet available, the involvement of the behind-the-scenes talent is sufficient to generate considerable excitement among animation enthusiasts. The film is set to be directed by animation heavyweight Rich Moore. Moore is an Oscar-winning director whose impressive pedigree includes helming Disney hits such as Wreck-It Ralph, Zootopia, and Ralph Breaks the Internet, all of which are celebrated for their innovative storytelling, compelling characters, and broad appeal. His extensive career also includes directing iconic episodes of seminal animated television series like The Simpsons and Futurama, showcasing his versatility and profound understanding of comedic and dramatic animation.
The project also lists John Lasseter as a producer, a figure whose foundational work at Pixar and Disney has profoundly shaped modern computer animation. His involvement with Skydance Animation indicates a commitment to high production values and creative storytelling. Given the talent involved, audiences can anticipate a visually stunning and narratively engaging reimagining of Jack and the Beanstalk, one that will likely bring contemporary sensibilities and a touch of the directors’ signature humor and heart to the classic fairy tale. This project reinforces Netflix’s strategy of collaborating with top-tier animation talent to create diverse and high-quality content.
Leo 2 – TBA
Studio: Happy Madison Productions / Netflix
Voice Cast: Adam Sandler
Genre: Animation, Family, Comedy, Sequel
Expected Netflix Release Date: TBA
In what is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated animated announcements, Leo 2 is officially in production as of 2025, following the monumental success of its 2023 predecessor. The original Leo quickly became one of Netflix’s biggest and most universally beloved animated hits, praised for its heartfelt narrative, memorable musical numbers, and surprisingly poignant exploration of the anxieties associated with growing up. Its record-breaking viewership underscored a strong demand for more adventures with its unique protagonist.
While precise plot details for the sequel are being kept under strict wraps, the most crucial piece of information has been confirmed: Adam Sandler is officially set to return, reprising his role as the titular, curmudgeonly yet incredibly wise class pet lizard, Leo. Sandler’s distinctive voice and comedic timing were central to the first film’s charm and success, making his return a key factor in the sequel’s potential appeal.
Produced under Sandler’s Happy Madison Productions banner, the first Leo was a significant triumph for Netflix, resonating deeply with audiences of all ages. The film was lauded for its ability to blend laugh-out-loud comedy with genuine emotional depth, addressing themes relevant to children and parents alike. Questions abound regarding the sequel’s direction: Will Leo find himself in a new classroom, mentoring a fresh batch of fifth graders? Will fan-favorite characters, such as Squirtle the turtle, make a return? For now, these details remain speculative, building anticipation for what promises to be another charming and successful animated feature for the streamer. The rapid greenlighting of a sequel demonstrates Netflix’s confidence in the Leo franchise as a cornerstone of its family animation offerings.
KPop Demon Hunters 2 – 2029 (or later)
Directors: Chris Appelhans and Maggie Kang
Animation Studio: Sony Pictures Animation / Netflix
Genre: 3D/CGI Animation, Action / Adventure, Musical, Supernatural
Expected Netflix Release Date: 2029 (or later)
One of the least surprising but highly anticipated announcements on this slate is the confirmation of KPop Demon Hunters 2. Currently in early development, Netflix is moving forward with a full sequel to the unique female-led, supernatural musical adventure. This project taps into the explosive global phenomenon of K-Pop, a genre that has transcended musical boundaries to become a cultural force, and combines it with action and fantasy elements, appealing to a broad demographic.
While the specific demonic forces the world’s premier KPop girl group will face in this new installment are yet to be revealed, the franchise remains in excellent hands. Directors Chris Appelhans, who previously helmed Netflix’s visually stunning Wish Dragon, and Maggie Kang are both officially returning to co-direct the sequel. Their collaborative vision is expected to further enhance the film’s distinctive blend of vibrant animation, energetic musical sequences, and thrilling supernatural action.
Audiences eager to see this sequel appear on their Netflix home screens may need to exercise patience. Current reporting suggests a targeted release date of 2029, with a strong possibility that it "will probably be later," depending on the complex and time-intensive animation pipeline. The intricate process of 3D/CGI animation, especially for a project of this scale and visual ambition, often requires several years from concept to completion. This extended development period allows for meticulous attention to detail, ensuring the sequel meets the high visual and narrative standards established by its predecessor. KPop Demon Hunters 2 signifies Netflix’s continued effort to produce culturally relevant and diverse animated content that resonates with a global youth audience.
The Sea Beast 2 – TBA
Directors: Chris Williams and Owen Sullivan
Producer: Jed Schlanger
Animation Studio: Netflix Animation
Expected Voice Cast: Karl Urban and Zaris-Angel Hator
Genre: Action / Adventure, Family, Sequel
Expected Netflix Release Date: TBA
Following a record-breaking debut in 2022, The Sea Beast officially secured its place as the most-viewed animated movie in Netflix’s history at the time of its release. This monumental success quickly prompted the streamer to secure the talent behind the film. In early 2023, Academy Award-winning director Chris Williams (known for Big Hero 6, Moana) signed a comprehensive overall deal with Netflix, committing to develop two brand-new projects—one of which is a direct sequel to The Sea Beast.
While an official, finalized logline has yet to be released by Netflix, Williams has provided exciting insights into the narrative direction to The Hollywood Reporter. The sequel will continue the journey of monster hunter Jacob Holland (expected to be voiced by Karl Urban) and his newly adopted daughter, Maisie Brumble (expected to be voiced by Zaris-Angel Hator). However, their anticipated "happily-ever-after" is far from simple. Williams teased the evolving plot, stating, "Suddenly Jacob is a parent, a parent to an especially willful kid, right? And so when you see them on the dock, you know that’s not what parenting looks like. It’s far messier, far more complicated and more trying at times than that. So the idea of the challenges of this new family became interesting to me." This suggests a deeper exploration of themes of family, responsibility, and the complexities of new relationships.
Beyond the struggles of newfound parenthood, the sequel is poised to explore a massive societal shift within the film’s universe: the implications for a world of hardened monster hunters who suddenly abandon their primary source of income and identity. This thematic depth promises to elevate the narrative beyond a simple adventure story. A tantalizing question also looms: Will the beloved sea monster Red make a return? When asked, Williams playfully responded, "Can I say… maybe?"
Behind the scenes, Williams is not tackling the sequel alone. He is officially joined by the first film’s head of story, Owen Sullivan, who will step up to co-direct the feature, ensuring continuity in storytelling and visual style. Jed Schlanger, the producer of the original film, also returns. It is noteworthy that as part of his overall deal, Williams is simultaneously developing a brand-new, original fantasy project for Netflix, which he has described as a cohesive, world-building epic tonally situated between The Lord of the Rings and The Princess Bride. Because Williams is developing both projects concurrently, a firm release window for The Sea Beast 2 is not yet available, but audiences and industry observers will be closely watching for any updates on this highly anticipated follow-up.
Broader Industry Implications and Netflix’s Animation Strategy
This extensive slate of animated features underscores Netflix’s aggressive and diversified strategy in the competitive streaming landscape. By investing in a mix of beloved sequels (Mitchells vs. the Machines 2, Leo 2, KPop Demon Hunters 2, The Sea Beast 2) and ambitious original projects or re-imaginings (I Am Frankelda, Steps, Ray Gunn, Charlie vs. the Chocolate Factory, Untitled Ghostbusters, Untitled Jack and the Beanstalk), Netflix aims to secure its position as a leading destination for animated content globally.
The collaborations with major studios like Sony Pictures Animation and Skydance Animation highlight Netflix’s willingness to forge strategic partnerships to bring high-quality, diverse content to its platform. These partnerships not only expand Netflix’s content library but also ensure access to top-tier animation talent and established production pipelines. The inclusion of international projects like I Am Frankelda also demonstrates a commitment to global storytelling and appealing to diverse cultural tastes, a key differentiator in the global streaming market.
Furthermore, the first-window deals with Sony and Universal ensure that their animated films will eventually arrive on Netflix in the US (and globally for Sony titles starting in 2027) after their theatrical runs, providing a continuous flow of high-profile animated content. This approach allows Netflix to offer a broad selection, from critically acclaimed auteur-driven projects to commercially successful studio blockbusters, cementing its appeal for animation fans of all ages. As the streaming wars intensify, original and exclusive animated content remains a crucial battleground, and Netflix’s robust upcoming slate indicates its strong intent to dominate this space for years to come.
What new animated movie are you most looking forward to from Netflix? Let us know in the comments.
