The Annecy International Animation Film Festival is set to showcase a thrilling array of upcoming animations from June 8 to June 14, 2025. Disney Animation Studios’ Zootopia 2 would be the most anticipated title on anyone’s list. Taking the hype machine by storm is Animal Farm, an animated reimagining of George Orwell’s novella and an animated series adaptation of Stranger Things. From thrilling panels to colorful workshops, this year’s festival is shaping up to be an incredible environment for industry vets and animation lovers to connect.
Other happenings Along with the film festival, the MIFA market will be celebrating its 40th anniversary during the event. This milestone reinforces the significance of MIFA in the global animation landscape, inviting attendees from over 100 countries to connect and collaborate. Australia, New Zealand, and Vietnam join Scotland, Bangladesh, and Costa Rica in making their debuts in the TPP market. Together, this shift paints a picture of an increasing diversity in participation.
Notable Premieres and Guests
A particular highlight of the festival will be the European premiere of Animal Farm, with director Andy Serkis in attendance. The animated adaptation of Orwell’s work is expected to create considerable buzz ahead of its theatrical release on July 11. Serkis’s unique experience as an actor and director lends huge gravitas to the event and cements the prestige surrounding his participation.
Additionally, Disney Animation Studios will give crown fans an exclusive first look at Zootopia 2 and Pixar’s upcoming film Elio. The buzz surrounding Zootopia 2 is downright shocking! In addition to actors Alan Tudyk and Lou Romano, Jared Bush, the newly appointed CEO of Disney Animation Studios and director of the film, will be at the festival. Join Chief Creative Officer at Pixar, Pete Docter, who will be in attendance. With all the recent developments around major animation studios, his presence underscores the significance of this year’s event.
“Japan will be here really strongly – they are coming with new ways they want to work.” – Veronique Encrenaz
The festival’s lineup not only highlights Western animation but embraces international contributions, with Japan’s presence expected to be particularly strong this year.
Celebrating Hungarian Animation
Like previous editions, this year’s festival will pay tribute to the rich legacy of Hungarian animation. To accomplish this, it will work in cooperation with National Film Institute Hungary, Institut Liszt and the Hungarian Cultural Centre Paris. Fostering this tribute is an ongoing commitment to diverse voices and artistic expressions within the animation community.
Marcel Jean from NFI noted the positive collaboration saying, “The people from the NFI were very open with us, and proud of all Hungarian creators.” This collaboration seeks to both support and increase the visibility of Hungarian artists on an international stage.
New Venue and Anticipated Attendance
This year’s festival introduces the Annecy Dôme as a spectacular new venue! If you find yourself at the main Pathe screening venue, you can easily get there with just a 2-minute walk. This new space has been added to improve the experience for attendees, enabling more screenings and events to take place.
Acclaimed as the world’s largest animation event, the Annecy International Animation Film Festival is looking to surpass last year’s all-time high attendance of 17,400 accredited guests. Featuring an expanded program and with past advocates of the march like LL Cool J participating, organizers are hopeful for yet another successful showing.