Pixar Animation Studios has announced an ambitious slate of upcoming films, revealing plans for seven new projects between 2026 and 2030. Following the success of its latest original film, Hoppers, set to release on March 6, 2026, the studio is poised to return to beloved franchises while also exploring new narratives.
Franchise Favorites Return
One of the most anticipated films is Toy Story 5, scheduled for release on June 19, 2026. This installment marks the return of the franchise that has captured hearts for decades. Directed by Andrew Stanton, who has been integral to the series since its inception, the film will feature familiar voices including Tom Hanks as Woody and Tim Allen as Buzz Lightyear. The plot will follow Woody’s efforts to reunite with his friends when their owner, Bonnie, becomes distracted by technology.
Another beloved franchise, The Incredibles, will also see a continuation with Incredibles 3. While no release date has been formally set, the film is expected to debut in 2028. Brad Bird, the original director and writer, will pen the screenplay, with Peter Sohn stepping in to direct. The film is anticipated to feature the entire Parr family, including Bob, Helen, and their children, as they confront new challenges.
New Stories and Animation Styles
In addition to returning franchises, Pixar is also developing original content. One such project is Gatto, scheduled for release on March 5, 2027. Directed by Enrico Casarosa, known for Luca, this film tells the story of a black cat in Venice entangled with a feline mob. This will also be the first Pixar film to fully utilize a new 2D-3D blended animation style, as indicated by promotional artwork released by the studio.
The studio is also expanding its repertoire with Coco 2, set to continue the story of Miguel and his family in the Mexican afterlife. Although the film’s release is tentatively slated for 2029, few details have been disclosed regarding the plot or cast.
Moreover, speculation surrounds Monsters Inc 3, which appears to be in the works, with a potential release as early as 2030. The original voice talents, including John Goodman and Billy Crystal, are expected to return, further fueling excitement among fans.
Unique Projects on the Horizon
Amid franchise continuations, Pixar is also venturing into original concepts with projects like Ono Ghost Market, which centers on a supernatural market connecting the living and the dead. Originally intended as a Disney+ series, the project has been transitioned into a feature film, indicating a strategic shift at Disney towards theatrical releases.
Additionally, Pixar is exploring the musical genre with an untitled project directed by Domee Shi, slated for release in 2028 or later. This film aims to be a traditional musical, showcasing the studio’s ability to innovate within the animated landscape.
As Pixar prepares to unveil these new films, the studio continues to demonstrate its commitment to storytelling that resonates with audiences of all ages. With a mix of sequels and original ideas, the upcoming years promise to be an exciting time for animation lovers worldwide.
