The Most Anticipated Upcoming Animated Movies: What to Watch Next
In a world where visual storytelling continues to evolve, animated films remain one of the most compelling and innovative forms of entertainment. With studios pushing the boundaries of animation and voice acting, 2025 and beyond promise to deliver a lineup of exciting stories for all age groups. Whether you are a fan of heartfelt family dramas, action-packed adventures, or comedic tales filled with talking animals and magical worlds, the next wave of animation has something for everyone. This article will explore the most promising upcoming animated movies, spotlighting both big-budget releases and indie surprises.
A New Era for Animation Studios
Over the past few years, animation studios like Pixar, DreamWorks, Sony Pictures Animation, and Netflix Animation have consistently delivered memorable hits. As we look ahead, these studios are continuing to invest in stories that are more diverse, inclusive, and emotionally powerful than ever before.
Pixar, for example, has teased original stories exploring bold themes and multicultural narratives. DreamWorks is diving deeper into action and fantasy, while Netflix is continuing its rapid rise in animation, giving space to both big productions and indie voices. This increase in competition and innovation means fans can expect not just sequels, but also original movies that break new ground.
One of the most exciting upcoming animated movies from Pixar is “Elio,” which follows a boy transported across galaxies who is mistakenly declared Earth’s ambassador to alien worlds. The animation style, humor, and fresh concept make this a film to watch. DreamWorks, on the other hand, is bringing back beloved franchises while also exploring new territory, such as “The Wild Robot,” which adapts the best-selling novel into a beautifully stylized film about nature, survival, and empathy.
Highly Anticipated Sequels and Franchise Expansions
One of the most exciting aspects of the future of animation is the return of popular characters and worlds we’ve come to love. Several upcoming animated movies are sequels to some of the most successful animated films in recent history.
Inside Out 2 – Pixar
One of the most talked-about sequels is Inside Out 2, set to release in 2025. The film picks up with Riley now a teenager, introducing new emotions into the headquarters. While Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust return, the sequel adds new emotional dimensions such as Anxiety and Envy. Fans are eager to see how the film addresses adolescence, mental health, and the complexity of growing up.
Despicable Me 4 – Illumination
The Minions are back with Despicable Me 4, continuing the adventures of Gru, his family, and his chaotic yellow sidekicks. The franchise remains a box office giant, and early teasers suggest more villain antics, comedic chaos, and heartfelt moments that blend humor with family themes. This installment aims to balance slapstick fun with genuine character growth, especially for Gru’s children.
Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse – Sony Pictures Animation
After the critical and commercial success of Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse and its sequel Across the Spider-Verse, fans are counting the days until the final chapter, Beyond the Spider-Verse, arrives. With stunning animation, multiverse storytelling, and a deep emotional arc for Miles Morales, this film is expected to be one of the most artistically ambitious animations ever made. It’s not just a superhero movie—it’s a showcase of visual storytelling at its finest.
Original Concepts and Experimental Storytelling
While sequels and franchises draw massive attention, original animated films are equally important. They offer fresh stories, untested ideas, and unique worlds that have the potential to become the next big thing.
Nimona – Netflix Animation
Nimona, adapted from the popular graphic novel by ND Stevenson, is a futuristic fantasy film centered on a shape-shifting teenager and her bond with a villain wrongly accused of a crime. With a striking art style and progressive narrative, it’s a standout among upcoming animated movies.
Spellbound – Skydance Animation
Set in a magical realm, Spellbound follows a young girl who must break a powerful spell to save her family and kingdom. The film promises lush animation, original songs, and a strong female lead. Skydance Animation is positioning itself as a competitor to Disney, and this title could mark a turning point in its journey.
The Witch Boy – Netflix
This film subverts traditional gender roles in fantasy by telling the story of a boy who discovers he has witch-like powers in a society where only girls can be witches. It blends magical realism with themes of identity and societal expectations, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.
These original stories play a crucial role in expanding what animated cinema can be. They show that animation isn’t just for kids—it’s a versatile medium capable of handling mature, diverse themes while still being visually stunning.
Global Animated Films to Watch
The world of animation is no longer dominated by just Hollywood. International studios are delivering award-winning content that captures the hearts of global audiences. From Japanese anime to French 3D films, the spectrum is wide and incredibly creative.
The Boy and the Heron – Studio Ghibli
Directed by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki, The Boy and the Heron is a semi-autobiographical fantasy that explores life, death, and imagination. As expected from Studio Ghibli, the animation is breathtaking, the themes deeply philosophical, and the storytelling poetic. It stands as one of the most awaited international upcoming animated movies.
Robot Dreams – Spain
This Spanish-French co-production is a wordless animated feature about the friendship between a dog and a robot in 1980s New York. It’s melancholic, nostalgic, and artistically brilliant. It has already received praise at festivals and is expected to be a sleeper hit internationally.
Detective Conan: Black Iron Submarine – Japan
Fans of long-running anime series like Detective Conan are also being treated to new films. This installment in the Conan series continues the mystery and action with sleek animation and complex plots, keeping fans invested year after year.
Conclusion: The Future of Animation is Bright
From franchise blockbusters to bold indie features, the list of upcoming animated movies is more exciting and diverse than ever. Animation continues to evolve not just in terms of visuals, but also in storytelling depth, character development, and emotional impact. Studios are daring to explore deeper themes while still entertaining both children and adults.
As audiences become more accepting of animation as a mature, complex art form, the industry is rising to meet expectations with more creativity and risk-taking. Whether it’s through sequels of fan-favorites like Inside Out 2 and Spider-Verse, or original concepts like Nimona and Spellbound, animation is entering a new golden age. In the end, these upcoming animated movies promise not only entertainment, but also stories that reflect who we are and what we aspire to be.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are some highly anticipated upcoming animated movies in 2025?
Some major titles include Inside Out 2, Elio, Despicable Me 4, and Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse.
2. Are there any original animated films releasing soon?
Yes, films like Nimona, Spellbound, and The Witch Boy offer fresh and original stories.
3. Which animation studios are leading in upcoming releases?
Pixar, DreamWorks, Illumination, Netflix Animation, and Sony Pictures Animation are leading the slate.
4. Will there be any international animated movies to watch?
Absolutely. Studio Ghibli’s The Boy and the Heron and Spain’s Robot Dreams are among the global highlights.
5. Where can I watch upcoming animated movies?
Most will release in theaters first, followed by streaming on platforms like Disney+, Netflix, and Prime Video.
