Disney and Pixar Annecy Surprises
At the 2025 Annecy International Animation Film Festival, Disney and Pixar wowed animation fans with exclusive footage, surprise announcements, and prestigious honors. From Zootopia 2 to a brand-new Pixar original, the studios reaffirmed that Annecy remains the premier stage for animation debuts.
Zootopia 2 Footage Premieres with New Characters
Walt Disney Animation Studios’ chief creative officer, Jared Bush, took the Annecy stage to introduce fresh footage from the highly anticipated Zootopia 2. Festivalgoers were treated to the return of Judy Hopps, Nick Wilde, and Mr. Big. Along with new characters voiced by Ke Huy Quan, Fortune Feimster, and Quinta Brunson.
Adding to the excitement, Jared Bush shared that French legend Jean Reno will voice a Zootopia police officer in a special cameo role. Wrapping up the day, Disney treated guests to an open-air screening of the original Zootopia under the stars at Le Pâquier.
Ron Clements Honored, Returns to Disney
In a surprise moment, legendary Disney director Ron Clements (The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, Moana) was inducted into Annecy’s Walk of Fame. Jared Bush also announced that Clements will return to Walt Disney Animation in a new advisory role.
Pixar’s Big Afternoon: Elio, Hoppers, and Toy Story 5
Pixar’s portion of the festival was led by Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter, who arrived with Elio directors Domee Shi and Madeline Sharafian, and producer Mary Alice Drumm. Attendees enjoyed a 27-minute preview of Elio, just ahead of its theatrical release.
The audience then received an exclusive look at Hoppers, arriving in March 2026, and the first two minutes of Toy Story 5, scheduled for release in summer 2026. Joan Cusack will return as Jessie, with new characters joining the beloved franchise. Rare behind-the-scenes footage from the original Toy Story helped commemorate the film’s 30th anniversary.
New Pixar Film ‘Gatto’ Announced for 2027
In a surprise reveal, Docter announced Gatto, an all-new Pixar original slated for summer 2027. Directed by Enrico Casarosa and produced by Andrea Warren, the film returns to Italy—specifically Venice—with a story about a black cat named Nero entangled with feline mobsters and questions about his nine lives.
A Strong Commitment to Annecy
With so many exclusive premieres and surprises, Disney and Pixar reinforced their long-standing commitment to the Annecy International Animation Film Festival. From nostalgic tributes to thrilling announcements. 2025 proved once again that when Disney and Pixar show up in Annecy, the animation world pays attention.
