Pixar Unveils First Look at ‘Toy Story 5’ and New Original ‘Gatto’ at Annecy

Exciting Announcements from Pixar

During a captivating presentation at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, Pixar Animation Studios revealed exclusive first looks at its highly anticipated upcoming features. These projects include Toy Story 5 and a brand-new original film titled Gatto. Notably, the announcement of Toy Story 5 highlighted the event. Pixar’s chief creative officer, Pete Docter, took the stage to share behind-the-scenes footage. He also provided insights into these projects.

A New Adventure in Toy Story 5

Toy Story 5 promises to bring back beloved characters. It explores the challenges toys face in a digital-first world. The announcement confirmed that Andrew Stanton and McKenna Harris direct the film, which is set to hit theaters on June 19, 2026. Docter also confirmed the return of franchise veterans Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, and Joan Cusack. This news delighted fans.

In a sneak peek, Docter screened the film’s opening scene. It features a container full of Buzz Lightyears awakening on an isolated desert island. They struggle to reconnect with “star command.” The plot reveals that Woody, Buzz, and the rest of the gang confront a new favorite plaything of their owner, Bonnie Anderson. This new toy is a tech tablet called Lillypad. “It’s Toy meets Tech,” Docter explained, highlighting the toys’ challenges in a world where children are increasingly enamored with screens.

Celebrating 30 Years of Toy Story

In honor of the franchise’s 30th anniversary, the Annecy audience enjoyed archival footage from the making of the original Toy Story, Pixar’s first full-length feature. Additionally, the announcement revealed that Ernie Hudson voices Combat Carl. He takes over the role originally voiced by the late Carl Weathers.

Introducing Gatto: A New Original Film

Docter also announced Gatto, an original animated feature directed by Enrico Casarosa, known for Luca. The film follows Nero, a water-hating black cat living in Venice, Italy, who befriends Maya, a lonely street musician. Docter shared early animated tests and character drawings, showcasing a painterly design that sets Gatto apart from typical Pixar aesthetics. The film is set to premiere in the summer of 2027.

Hoppers: A New Comedy Adventure

In addition to Toy Story 5 and Gatto, Pixar debuted a first-look clip from Hoppers, an original comedy featuring Mabel (voiced by Piper Curda). She is a nature-loving young woman. Mabel embarks on a mission to stop Mayor Jerry (voiced by Jon Hamm) from building a highway that threatens her local woodlands. Thanks to a secret brain-swapping experiment, Mabel transfers her mind into a robot beaver. Consequently, she rallies the local animal community, led by King George (voiced by Bobby Moynihan), to join her cause.

Preview of Elio

The Annecy session also included a preview of Elio, directed by Madeline Sharafian and Domee Shi. This science fiction adventure follows 11-year-old Elio Solis (voiced by Yonas Kibreab). He mistakenly becomes identified as Earth’s ambassador after aliens abduct him. The voice cast features Zoe Saldaña, Remy Edgerly, Brad Garrett, Jameela Jamil, and Shirley Henderson. The audience enjoyed a full 25 minutes of footage from Elio, which premieres in theaters on June 20.

A Bright Future for Pixar

With Toy Story 5, Gatto, and Hoppers on the horizon, Pixar continues to push the boundaries of animation and storytelling. The studio’s commitment ensures that audiences can look forward to exciting adventures in the years to come. As fans eagerly await the releases following the Toy Story 5 announcement, Pixar’s legacy of creativity and imagination remains as strong as ever.

Source: The Hollywood Reporter