Netflix's Animated Lineup: What's New in 2026 and Beyond? (2026)

Here's a list of exciting new animated movies coming to Netflix in 2026 and beyond, with a focus on the most intriguing projects and their unique features:

I Am Frankelda (Soy Frankelda)

  • Director/Writer: Arturo Ambriz and Roy Ambriz
  • Voice Cast: Assira Abbate, Anahí Allué, Lourdes Ambriz, Antonio Badía, Gabriela Cárdenas, Sergio Carranza, Beto Castillo, Jesse Conde
  • Genre: Stop-Motion Animation, Fantasy, Musical
  • Language: Spanish
  • Runtime: 114 Minutes
  • Netflix Release Date: June 16th, 2026
  • Commentary: This stunning Mexican stop-motion animation feature from the Ambriz Brothers, with Guillermo del Toro's backing, promises a dark, female-led fantasy with a creature-feature twist. Set in 19th-century Mexico, it follows Frankelda, a gifted writer whose macabre tales come to life in her subconscious. The film's unique blend of period drama, feminist themes, and breathtaking stop-motion artistry makes it a hidden gem to watch out for.

Steps

  • Directors: Alyce Tzue and John Ripa
  • Producers: Jane Hartwell, Kim Lessing, Amy Poehler
  • Animation Studio: Paper Kite Productions / Netflix
  • Voice Cast: Ali Wong, Stephanie Hsu, Amanda Seyfried
  • Genre: 3D/CGI Animation, Fantasy, Comedy, Family
  • Expected Netflix Release Date: 2026 (TBD)
  • Commentary: A clever subversion of the Cinderella story, focusing on her stepsisters, this 3D animated comedy boasts a stellar voice cast. With Ali Wong, Stephanie Hsu, and Amanda Seyfried bringing their comedic talents, it's shaping up to be a hit for family movie nights.

Ray Gunn

  • Director: Brad Bird
  • Writers: Brad Bird, Matthew Robbins
  • Animation Studio: Skydance Animation
  • Voice Cast: Sam Rockwell, Scarlett Johansson, Tom Waits, John Ratzenberger
  • Genre: 3D Sci-Fi, Action/Adventure, Comedy
  • Expected Netflix Release Date: Late 2026
  • Commentary: A highly anticipated project from legendary director Brad Bird, Ray Gunn promises a blend of sci-fi, comedy, and noir detective tropes. With a stacked voice cast and a retro-futuristic aesthetic, it's a must-watch for fans of family-friendly animation.

Charlie vs. the Chocolate Factory

  • Directors: Elaine Bogan, Jared Stern
  • Producers: Aron Warner, Timothy Yoo
  • Animation Studio: Sony Pictures Animation / Netflix
  • Voice Cast: Taika Waititi, Kit Connor
  • Genre: Action/Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Musical
  • Expected Netflix Release Date: 2027
  • Commentary: A modern take on the classic story, this musical adventure explores the life of Willy Wonka after his imprisonment. With Taika Waititi as Wonka and Kit Connor as Charlie, it's a hilarious and logical question that fans will be eager to answer.

The Mitchells vs. the Machines 2 (Working Title: The Mitchells vs. the Mitchells)

  • Directors: Guillermo Martinez, JP Sans
  • Writers: Wendy Molyneux, Lizzie Molyneux-Logelin
  • Producers: Phil Lord, Christopher Miller, Kurt Albrecht
  • Animation Studio: Sony Pictures Animation / Lord Miller
  • Genre: 3D Sci-Fi, Family, Comedy, Sequel
  • Expected Netflix Release Date: TBA
  • Commentary: The sequel to the Oscar-nominated hit, this family road trip adventure promises more wild and dangerous encounters. With a slight change in the director's chair, it remains in capable hands, and fans are eager to see the Mitchells face themselves in a new and stranger world.

Untitled Ghostbusters Animated Feature

  • Director: Kris Pearn
  • Studio: Sony Pictures / Netflix
  • Genre: Creature/Monster, Fantasy, Family
  • Expected Netflix Release Date: TBA
  • Commentary: Netflix is developing a brand-new animated feature set in the Ghostbusters universe, with plot details under wraps. Directed by Kris Pearn, known for The Willoughbys and Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2, it's a spooky, slime-filled adventure that fans are eagerly awaiting.

Untitled Jack and the Beanstalk Project

  • Director: Rich Moore
  • Producer: John Lasseter
  • Animation Studio: Skydance Animation / Netflix
  • Genre: Fantasy, Family
  • Expected Netflix Release Date: TBA
  • Commentary: Skydance Animation's take on a classic fable, directed by Oscar-winning director Rich Moore, is sure to be a hit. With a twist on the story of Jack and the giant, it's a project that animation fans are incredibly hyped for.

Leo 2

  • Studio: Happy Madison Productions / Netflix
  • Voice Cast: Adam Sandler
  • Genre: Animation, Family, Comedy, Sequel
  • Expected Netflix Release Date: TBA
  • Commentary: One of Netflix's biggest hits, Leo 2 is getting a sequel with Adam Sandler returning as the titular character. With a focus on the anxieties of growing up and a heartwarming musical score, it's a sequel that fans are eager to see.

KPop Demon Hunters 2

  • Directors: Chris Appelhans, Maggie Kang
  • Animation Studio: Sony Pictures Animation / Netflix
  • Genre: 3D/CGI Animation, Action/Adventure, Musical, Supernatural
  • Expected Netflix Release Date: 2029 (or later)
  • Commentary: A sequel to the female-led supernatural musical adventure, KPop Demon Hunters 2 is in early development. With the same directors returning, it's a franchise that fans are excited to see continue.

The Sea Beast 2

  • Directors: Chris Williams, Owen Sullivan
  • Producer: Jed Schlanger
  • Animation Studio: Netflix Animation
  • Expected Voice Cast: Karl Urban, Zaris-Angel Hator
  • Genre: Action/Adventure, Family, Sequel
  • Expected Netflix Release Date: TBA
  • Commentary: The sequel to the record-breaking animated movie, The Sea Beast 2 explores the challenges of newfound parenthood and the world of hardened monster hunters. With a talented voice cast and a shift in the film's universe, it's a sequel that promises to be just as captivating as the first.
Netflix's Animated Lineup: What's New in 2026 and Beyond? (2026)
Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Van Hayes

Last Updated:

Views: 5578

Rating: 4.6 / 5 (46 voted)

Reviews: 93% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Van Hayes

Birthday: 1994-06-07

Address: 2004 Kling Rapid, New Destiny, MT 64658-2367

Phone: +512425013758

Job: National Farming Director

Hobby: Reading, Polo, Genealogy, amateur radio, Scouting, Stand-up comedy, Cryptography

Introduction: My name is Van Hayes, I am a thankful, friendly, smiling, calm, powerful, fine, enthusiastic person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.