10 Animated Movies Coming In 2026 Fans Are Most Excited For
2026 is going to be a big year for movies, and animated films are a huge part of that. From fun adventures to emotional stories, there’s something for everyone. Big studios like Disney, Pixar, DreamWorks, and others are bringing new ideas and sequels that fans have been waiting for.
Via CBR
These movies mix action, fantasy, and humor, and some could even break box office records. Some new movies stand out the most. They include fresh original tales and continuations of popular series. Get ready for a year full of colorful animation and exciting plots.
Forgotten Island
DreamWorks Animation has a strong track record with hits like Puss in Boots: The Last Wish and The Wild Robot. Even though they get less attention sometimes compared to Disney or Pixar, their movies often surprise with great stories and visuals. In 2026, after Shrek 5 got delayed to 2027, DreamWorks is focusing on Forgotten Island, set to release on September 25.
Via YouTube
This movie is a comedy-adventure that takes place on a magical island inspired by Philippine mythology. It follows two best friends, Jo and Raissa, who end up in this strange place. To get back home, they have to forget each other completely. That sounds like it will tug at the heartstrings while keeping things fun and adventurous.
The voice cast adds to the excitement. It includes talented actors like H.E.R., Jenny Slate, Manny Jacinto, Lea Salonga, Dave Franco, and Liza Soberano. Directors Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado are behind it, known for their work on other DreamWorks projects. With beautiful animation and a unique cultural twist, Forgotten Island could be a standout original film that teaches about friendship and memory magically.
Via Yahoo
Hexed
Walt Disney Animation Studios is known for classics like Encanto and Moana. In 2026, they’re sandwiched between big sequels like Zootopia 2 in 2025 and Frozen 3 in 2027, but Hexed stands on its own. Releasing on November 25, it’s Disney’s 65th animated feature. The story follows a teenage misfit who discovers his weird traits are actually hidden magic powers. He and his mother get transported to a world where magic is free and wild.
Not much else is out about the plot, but it promises fantasy and self-discovery. Co-directors Jason Hand and Josie Trinidad bring experience from Moana 2, The Princess and the Frog, and Zootopia+. Their background suggests strong storytelling and vibrant worlds. Disney’s history with magic-themed movies like Aladdin makes this one intriguing.
Via IGN Pakistan
What makes Hexed exciting is the potential for relatable themes. Teens often feel out of place, and magic as a metaphor could resonate. The animation style will likely be top-notch, with colorful spells and creatures. It’s a chance for Disney to shine with an original idea amid their sequels.
The Cat In The Hat
Dr. Seuss’ books have inspired many films, but the 2003 live-action Cat in the Hat with Mike Myers didn’t wow everyone. It was weird and got mixed reviews, canceling sequel plans. Now, in 2026, fans are getting an animated version on November 6, which fits the book’s playful style better.
Via Deadline
The plot sticks close to the original: a mischievous cat in a hat visits two bored kids while their mom is away, causing chaos with Thing 1 and Thing 2. Animated format allows for wild imagination, like in other Seuss adaptations such as The Lorax or Horton Hears a Who. The voice cast is stellar. Bill Hader voices the Cat, bringing his comedic energy from shows like Barry.
Others include Xochitl Gomez, Matt Berry, Quinta Brunson, Giancarlo Esposito, and America Ferrera. Directors Alessandro Carloni and Erica Rivinoja have experience in animation. This movie could redeem the character for a new generation. Seuss stories teach lessons with fun rhymes, and animation enhances the absurdity. Families will enjoy the humor, and it might become a holiday favorite.
Via Variety
Goat
Animated sports movies are rare, but Goat brings a fresh take. Releasing on February 13 from Sony Pictures Animation, it follows Will Harris, an anthropomorphic goat dreaming of being the GOAT, greatest of all time, in Roarball, a sport like basketball but more intense.
NBA star Stephen Curry produces and voices a character, adding real sports flair. The cast includes Caleb McLaughlin as the lead, Gabrielle Union, Nick Kroll, Jennifer Hudson, David Harbour, Patton Oswalt, Aaron Pierre, Jenifer Lewis, Sherry Cola, and JellyRoll. Directors Tyree Dillihay and Adam Rosette aim for comedy and inspiration. Sony’s recent successes, like Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, show they can deliver quality.
Via IMDb
Goat excites because it combines underdog sports stories with animation’s creativity. Think Space Jam, but with original characters. It could inspire kids to pursue dreams, with funny moments and exciting games. The roarball scenes will likely be action-packed, making it fun for sports fans and families.
The Legend Of Aang – The Last Airbender
Avatar: The Last Airbender is one of the best animated TV shows ever, with deep stories and bending elements. Its sequel, The Legend of Korra, was also great. Now, a new movie, The Legend of Aang: The Last Airbender, release on October 10, set between the two shows. It follows adult Aang learning of an ancient power to save his people from extinction. He quests with friends like Katara and Sokka.
Via Geek Tyrant
Directed by Lauren Montgomery, it’s the first in a trilogy. The voice cast features Eric Nam as Aang, Dave Bautista, Dionne Quan, Jessica Matten, and Steven Yeun. Paramount is behind it, promising high-quality animation. Fans are thrilled for more in this world. The original show mixed action, humor, and themes like friendship and balance. This film could explore Aang’s growth as a leader. It’s exciting for old fans and new ones discovering the series.
The Angry Birds Movie 3
Video game movies have improved, with hits like Sonic and Super Mario. The Angry Birds series started mixed, but the second film was better received. Now, The Angry Birds Movie 3 comes out on December 23, bringing back the silly birds and pigs. Plot details are scarce, but it continues the wacky adventures from the mobile game. Director John Rice helms it, with returning voices like Jason Sudeikis, Josh Gad, Danny McBride, and Rachel Bloom.
Via The Direct
New additions include Emma Myers, Keke Palmer, Lily James, Tim Robinson, and MrBeast. The franchise’s humor comes from slapstick and bird-pig rivalries. The second movie’s success suggests this could be funnier. It’s exciting for light-hearted entertainment. Kids love the characters, and the holiday release makes it family viewing. With better reviews possible, it might surprise as a solid entry.
Minions 3
Minions have been everywhere since Despicable Me in 2010. Their spin-offs made over $900 million each. Minions 3 releases on July 1, continuing their chaotic antics. Plot is under wraps, but expect silly historical or modern mishaps. Pierre Coffin directs and voices the Minions, keeping their gibberish language.
Via The Hollywood Reporter
Illumination knows how to make these profitable and fun. The series mixes humor for all ages. Excitement comes from the Minions’ popularity. They’re cute, funny, and memorable. This could be a summer blockbuster, with laughs and action. Families will flock to it.
Hoppers
Pixar has ups and downs, but hits like Inside Out 2 show they’re back. Hoppers, releasing March 6, is an original sci-fi comedy. It follows Mabel, a teen animal lover, whose mind transfers to a robotic beaver to save a habitat from destruction. Director Daniel Chong, from Turning Red, brings heart.
Via The Walt Disney Company
Cast includes Piper Curda, Jon Hamm, Bobby Moynihan, Demetri Martin, Melissa Villaseñor, and Meryl Streep. Wait, from earlier, Jon Hamm, Meryl Streep, Dave Franco. It feels like classic Pixar, blending emotion and adventure. Themes of environment and empathy are timely. Excitement is for Pixar’s storytelling. Trailers suggest appeal, potentially a hit like Elemental.
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie
The Super Mario Bros. Movie grossed over $1 billion. Its sequel, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, releases on April 3, adapting the galaxy games. Mario, Luigi, Peach, and Toad space-travel to fight Bowser Jr. Directors Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic return, with cast Chris Pratt, Anya Taylor-Joy, Charlie Day, Jack Black, Keegan-Michael Key, and Kevin Michael Richardson.
Via WIRED
New Cast includes Brie Larson as Rosalina, Benny Safdie as Bowser Jr. Animation is vibrant, with fun levels. It could top the 2026 box office. Excitement for nostalgia and action. Families and gamers will love it.
Toy Story 5
Toy Story revolutionized animation in 1995. The trilogy is legendary, and Toy Story 4 succeeded. Toy Story 5 releases June 19, directed by Andrew Stanton. It deals with toys facing technology, as Bonnie prefers her tablet (voiced by Greta Lee? Earlier info has Lilypad). Woody reunites with Buzz and others.
Via CNN
Cast includes Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack, Ernie Hudson, Tony Hale, Conan O’Brien, and Anna Faris. The series excels at emotions and relevance. This timely story about screens excites. It’s highly anticipated for heart and humor.
Explore the Most Anticipated Films of 2026
In the end, 2026 doesn’t just hand fans more cartoons; it hands them stories that laugh with them, cry with them, and remind everyone why they line up for tickets in the first place. Whether it’s two friends learning the price of memory on Forgotten Island, a goat chasing glory in Roarball, or toys staring down a glowing tablet, these films promise to blend heart, humor, and high-flying adventure in ways that feel fresh yet familiar.
Via TIME
Hang them on your calendar, grab the popcorn, and get ready: the year ahead is about to prove that animation can still surprise, still teach, and still light up screens big and small.
