As 2024 fades into the distance, we can safely say that animated features have proven to be one of the strongest motivators in getting audiences back into theaters. In fact, three of the top five grossing films in the U.S. last year were animated films.

While the major studio’s continued emphasis on sequels and franchises remains a bit disheartening for adventurous viewers who like to be challenged by new material, it’s hard to argue with the strategy since mainstream audiences continue to express a desire for familiar characters and universes. But along with all the usual sequels, 2025 promises plenty of original expressions, including a new stop-motion film from Laika (Wildwood), an original from Pixar (Elio), and the much-anticipated return of director Sylvain Chomet (The Magnificent Life of Marcel Pagnol).

Netflix continues to lead the way with their feature animation output, which currently stands at seven animated releases for 2025, including their first Korean-language animated film (Lost in Starlight) and Sony Pictures Animation’s K-pop film K-Pop: Demon Hunters.



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