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Pixar Animation Studios is known for balancing original, emotional storytelling with highly anticipated sequels to its most popular franchises. The studio’s upcoming release slate for the next few years reflects this strategy, featuring both brand-new concepts and the return of some of its most successful characters.
2026: Sci-Fi and Nostalgia
The year 2026 is scheduled to bring a mix of originality and the return of a foundational franchise.
- Hoppers (March 6, 2026): This original film is a comedic sci-fi adventure that features a unique concept. It follows an animal-loving college student named Mabel who uses a futuristic technology to transfer her consciousness into a robot beaver. Her mission is to go undercover in the animal kingdom to protect a peaceful glade from the disruptive plans of a greedy mayor. The film is directed by Daniel Chong, creator of the beloved series We Bare Bears.
- Toy Story 5 (June 19, 2026): The fifth installment in Pixar’s flagship franchise is confirmed, with veteran Pixar director Andrew Stanton involved in the project. Early plot details suggest the toys will face their latest challenge: technology. The narrative is expected to focus on the intersection of physical toys and digital devices, as the toys must compete for the attention of their owner in an increasingly electronic world.
2027 and Beyond: Italian Roots and Superhero Action
Moving into 2027 and the subsequent years, the studio continues to lean on established talent and highly anticipated franchise follow-ups.
- Gatto (June 18, 2027): This original feature film sees the return of director Enrico Casarosa, who previously helmed Luca. The story is reportedly set in Venice, Italy, and centers on a straggly black cat that can’t swim, who is found by a street musician and must adapt to life as a house pet. Given Casarosa’s past work, the film is expected to explore themes of friendship and finding one’s place within a beautifully realized Italian setting.
- Highly Anticipated Sequels: While specific dates are currently less firm, the studio has confirmed that two more major sequels are in development:
- Coco 2: A follow-up to the 2017 Oscar-winning film that explored Mexican culture and the Day of the Dead.
- Incredibles 3: The third installment in the superhero franchise, with director Brad Bird involved, is also confirmed to be in pre-production, though a release date is currently listed for 2028.
