Netflix Unveils Details on Upcoming Animated Films “Spellbound” and “Pookoo”

Netflix has revealed exciting new details about its forthcoming animated films, “Spellbound” and “Pookoo,” produced in collaboration with Skydance Animation. The announcements were made during the “Netflix on Netflix Animation” preview event in Los Angeles.

“Spellbound” follows the story of Ellian, the young daughter of the rulers of Lumbria, who harbors a secret: a mysterious spell has transformed her parents into monsters. The protagonist seeks the help of the mystical Oracles of the Sun and Moon to break the spell. The film is directed by Vicky Jensen, renowned for her work on DreamWorks Animation’s “Shrek.” The musical score is composed by Academy Award winner Alan Menken, known for his iconic Disney compositions in “The Little Mermaid” and “Beauty and the Beast.” The voice cast includes notable actors such as Rachel Zegler, Nicole Kidman, Javier Bardem, John Lithgow, and Jenifer Lewis. “Spellbound” is set to debut on Netflix on November 22.

“Spellbound” reflects Netflix’s growing investment in animated content, which has proven effective in retaining subscribers. This strategy aligns with the company’s broader programming goals of offering diverse content to satisfy all viewer tastes. Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos previously stated that the company planned to increase spending on animated content in 2024, noting its popularity and high re-watch value. Successful animated features like “Leo” and “The Sea Beast” have encouraged Netflix to expand its offerings, including new installments of popular series such as “Arcane” and “Wallace & Gromit.”

During the preview event, Netflix also highlighted its TV slate, including the final season of “Big Mouth” and the announcement that Timothy Olyphant will voice the Terminator in the upcoming series “Terminator Zero.”

“Pookoo,” the second film produced under Netflix’s multi-year agreement with Skydance, is a buddy comedy about a small woodland creature and a majestic bird who magically swap places and embark on an adventurous journey. The film is directed by Nathan Greno, known for “Tangled,” and produced by animation veterans John Lasseter and Mary Ellen Bauder. “Pookoo” is slated for release in 2025.

John Lasseter, former chief creative officer at Disney and a key figure behind Pixar Animation Studios, will oversee the production of these films. Lasseter joined Skydance Animation in 2019 after leaving Disney in 2018.

These new animated projects underscore Netflix’s commitment to expanding its animated content library, appealing to both family and adult audiences, and strengthening its position in the streaming market.

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