Annecy Animation Showcase Reveals 5 New Films

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Each year, the Annecy Animation Showcase serves as a prelude to June’s Annecy Festival, which is the grand event for all things animation. Today, the event, jointly organized by the Marché du Film and Annecy Festival, has revealed the five projects that will be spotlighted during its 2025 edition, taking place on May 18 as part of Cannes’ Animation Day.

The Showcase serves as much more than just a sneak peek; it’s a crucial link connecting the artistic aspirations of animation to the industry responsible for bringing these visions to life on screens worldwide. It highlights works in progress and production, thereby bolstering creators at a critical stage in their process and offering sales agents and distributors a first glimpse of potential future gems that might significantly enhance their catalogues.

The Showcase isn’t just a brief glimpse; it’s a vital connection between the artistic dreams of animation and the industry that transforms them into reality on screens worldwide. It showcases projects in development and production, thereby empowering creators at a crucial juncture and offering sales agents and distributors an early peek at titles that could significantly boost their offerings.

This year’s five chosen films showcase a diverse range of perspectives, spanning from newcomers to established filmmakers, from small production companies to global partnerships. These films, through their intimate narratives, bold artistic approaches, or innovative storytelling techniques, prove that animation remains one of cinema’s most vibrant and captivating art forms.

“Julián,” Louise Bagnall (Ireland, U.K., Canada, Denmark, Luxembourg)

Producer: Cartoon SaloonLanguage: EnglishGenre: Comedy Drama
Completion: 2026

As a passionate movie enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share that I’ve embarked on a captivating journey with the movie “Julián” – inspired by Jessica Love’s cherished picture book of the same name. This summer adventure follows a curious boy named Julián, as he delves into a world of discovery, imagination, and personal transformation.

Louise Bagnall, known for her work on “Late Afternoon,” is at the helm of this project, while Cartoon Saloon, an Oscar-nominated studio behind masterpieces like “The Breadwinner” and “Wolfwalkers,” produces it. This heartfelt coming-of-age tale beautifully combines whimsy with depth, ensuring a narrative that delves into the complexities of identity, family, and self-expression.

“Sunny,” Michael Arias (Japan, U.S.)

Producer: GKIDSLanguage: JapaneseGenre: Drama
Completion: 2029

Directed by Michael Arias, who brought us “Tekkonkinkreet”, the film “Sunny” offers an emotionally charged narrative set in 1970s Japan. It invites viewers into Star Kids, a protective haven for kids navigating society’s fissures. Through the perspectives of its young residents, Sunny delves into the delicate power of makeshift families and children’s unyielding spirit. Despite being incomplete, the project promises the return of a gifted storyteller in the realm of anime with a deeply impactful, socially relevant tale.

“Ana, en passant,” Fernanda Alves Salgado (Brazil, Portugal)

Producer: Apiario Creative StudioLanguage: Portuguese, FrenchGenre: Drama
Completion: 2026

Titled “Ana, en passant,” this film explores a young woman’s emotional odyssey following her grandmother’s passing. Brazilian director Fernanda Alves Salgado employs a poetic and visually rich approach to weave a tale that is as personal as it is philosophical. This Brazil-France collaboration delves into themes of memory, migration, and the unseen connections that link generations.

“Dante” Linda Hambäck (Sweden, Denmark, Norway)

Producer: Lee FilmLanguage: SwedishGenre: Comedy
Completion: 2026

Helge is under suspicion. Over ten million dollars are unaccounted for. The upcoming comedy “Dante,” directed by Linda Hambäck from Sweden, is set to trace the money trail – filled with confusion, chaos, and plenty of chuckles. Known for her work in “The Ape Star,” Hambäck infuses this caper with her unique blend of quirkiness and social awareness. If you enjoy Scandinavian humor laced with a touch of mystery, make sure to watch out for Dante.

“Mu Yi and the Handsome General,” Julien Chheng (France)

Producer: Studio La CachetteLanguage: FrenchGenre: Comedy
Completion: 2026

14-year-old Mu Yi resides peacefully in seclusion on a distant Chinese mountain. However, her tranquil existence is disrupted when she crosses paths with an enchanting yet injured general, causing her world to spin out of control. This French production offers an engaging storyline filled with laughter, emotion, and a hint of romance, all while promising a captivating journey of self-discovery encased in breathtaking aesthetics. The collaboration between Julien Chheng (The Summit of the Gods) and Studio La Cachette – known for their work on “Star Wars: Visions,” “Love, Death + Robots” and “Primal” – ensures a film that is as delightful as it is meticulously crafted.

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2025-04-17 11:48