As a movie enthusiast who has spent countless hours lost in the magic of animated films, I find myself eagerly anticipating the releases of several highly-anticipated sequels. Among them is “Beyond the Spider-Verse,” which, given Sony’s current production schedule, might not hit theaters until 2026 or 2027. With Miles Morales (Shameik Moore) stuck in an alternate reality where his other self has taken a darker path and become the Prowler, this third film promises to be a mind-bending journey that will challenge our favorite webslinger like never before. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of Spider-Man that we’re still exploring new dimensions of his universe more than two decades after the character first graced our screens.
As a devoted admirer, I’d say: Crafting animated movies may be costly and laborious, but there’s no denying its power to narrate captivating tales. Animated flicks can whisk us away to realms that live-action films seldom reach, and when skillfully executed, they can storm the box office. When success strikes, sequels are bound to follow, although it’s a pity that animation requires a substantial amount of time to produce a full-length feature. This means there might be lengthy gaps between installments in a series, which isn’t ideal for keeping fans hooked.
Protracted production timelines can sometimes delay the release of animated sequels to such an extent that the audience may lose interest. Consequently, it’s not unusual for audiences to be oblivious to upcoming animated sequels. Notably, prominent animation studios like Pixar typically spend around four years producing a film. Therefore, you might find it surprising to discover the number of animated sequels currently in development in Hollywood.
The Bad Guys 2 (August 1, 2025)
In the year 2022, the movie “The Bad Guys,” produced by DreamWorks and distributed by Universal, debuted in cinemas. It wasn’t long before a franchise was born from its success. The first film, which chronicles a gang of criminal anthropomorphic animals trying to reform, paved the way for two TV specials – “The Bad Guys: A Very Bad Holiday” and “The Bad Guys: Haunted Heist,” which were released in 2023 and 2024. In March 2024, DreamWorks announced that “The Bad Guys 2” would be coming out on August 1, 2025.
The previous villains, now trying to live as heroes, face challenges in building trust and acceptance. However, they are pulled back into action for one final mission, which is assigned by a group of women criminals who have taken over. It was announced that the original cast members, including Sam Rockwell, Awkwafina, and Zazie Beetz, will reprise their roles. Furthermore, it was reported in July 2024 that Natasha Lyonne may be part of the sequel, but her character details are still unclear.
Zootopia 2 (November 26, 2025)
2016 marked the release of the original “Zootopia” movie, starring Judy Hopps (played by Ginnifer Goodwin) and Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman). Since then, these characters have been successful in saving the city from corruption. The film was incredibly popular, grossing over $1 billion worldwide. Given its massive success, it’s not surprising that a sequel is on the way. In 2023, Disney CEO Bob Iger announced “Zootopia 2”, and the following year at the D23 event, we got our first glimpse of footage from the movie.
In an exclusive clip shown only to D23 attendees, Nick and Judy were seen on a quest to find Gary in the bustling Marsh Market, home to semi-aquatic creatures. This vibrant area was filled with amusing antics such as hippos getting tattoos and riding waterslides, seals munching on algae, and even a plumber sea lion. Goodwin and Bateman will reprise their roles in this adventure, and it was announced that Ke Huy Quan will join the cast, voicing the character Gary, a snake. Jared Bush, who co-directed the original film, will be at the helm again, directing from his own script. The Mouse House has scheduled the release for November 26, 2025.
Watchmen Chapter II (2025)
1986 saw the collaboration of writer Alan Moore and illustrator Dave Gibbons, resulting in one of the most acclaimed limited comic book series ever created – “Watchmen”. This comic was often thought to be unadaptable, and indeed, it posed quite a challenge. The 2009 live-action “Watchmen” film didn’t fare well, and the HBO TV show from 2019 (which Moore himself deemed “embarrassing”) lasted only one season. However, unlike live-action adaptations, animated versions of “Watchmen” have been a success. In 2024, Warner Bros. Animation produced an adaptation that not only stays true to the original “Watchmen” comic story but also boasts impressive CG animation with visually dynamic scenes.
The upcoming movie, set in the ’80s, boasts a stellar cast and, since it was initially announced as a two-part series, we can expect all the main actors to reappear. While specific details about the release date for “Watchmen: Chapter II” aren’t available yet, it is slated for 2025. However, what has been confirmed is that “Chapter II” will be based on the final six issues of the series, with “Chapter I” adapting the first half of the original 12-issue comic book.
The Super Mario Bros. Movie 2 (April 3, 2026)
The initial live-action version of the iconic “Super Mario Bros.” video game series, known for its poor quality, was referred to as a cinematic disaster. After 30 years, another Hollywood adaptation finally surfaced in an animated form, allowing it to highlight what makes the Mario universe unique. “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” turned out to be a box office sensation, earning over $1.3 billion globally. Given its financial success, sequels are often not refused by Hollywood, so another installment is planned.
On March 10, 2024, which happens to be Mario Day, information surfaced about “The Super Mario Bros. Movie 2” from Illumination and Nintendo. Although details about the project are still scarce, it was confirmed that the movie will be released in various regions in April 2026, with the United States scheduled for an April 3 premiere. The forthcoming sequel has already sparked much conversation, even among the cast members like Jack Black, who voices Bowser, suggesting Pedro Pascal to voice Wario. If Wario, the famous antagonist and Mario’s opposite, were included in the movie, it could be a smart move for the franchise, but the direction the sequel will take remains uncertain at this stage.
Toy Story 5 (June 19, 2026)
The “Toy Story” series continues to be a valuable asset for both Disney and Pixar, with the original film paving the way for Pixar’s rise as a top animation studio and subsequent films enjoying widespread success. Even after “Toy Story 3,” it appeared that the toys’ story had reached its conclusion, but then unexpectedly, “Toy Story 4” was released to great acclaim, reaffirming the enduring appeal of Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and their companions as some of Disney’s most beloved characters. In this modern era, it’s natural to wonder how they can maintain their relevance, but the solution is clear: by moving the gang into the digital age with “Toy Story 5.
As a gamer, I gotta admit, things have really changed since the good old days. Phones, tablets, and tech are everywhere now, giving toys some serious competition. That’s what co-director Andrew Stanton shared at the D23 convention back in 2024. This time, it’s all about merging toys with technology – “Toy Story 5” style!
Shrek 5 (July 1, 2026)
2022 saw fans revisit the “Shrek” universe through “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish”, but it’s been more than a decade since we’ve had a new full-fledged “Shrek” movie. In July 2024, DreamWorks Animation officially announced that “Shrek 5” is underway, sharing a short teaser on their platform featuring the number 5 in an ogre-green color with Shrek ears and set to Smash Mouth’s iconic tune “All Star”, which has been synonymous with the franchise since its first film.
The news about the upcoming Shrek movie is bound to ignite enthusiasm among fans. Not only do we have a release date (July 1, 2026), but also the return of our beloved characters: Mike Myers as Shrek, Eddie Murphy as Donkey, and Cameron Diaz as Fiona. The directors, Brad Ableson and Walt Dohrn, who are well-versed in the franchise, will be co-directing the film. As for the plot details, they remain a secret for now. However, with the universal appeal of this franchise, it’s safe to say that “Shrek 5” is likely to be another blockbuster hit.
Paw Patrol 3 (July 31, 2026)
From its start as a TV series on TVOKids/Nick Jr. in 2013, “Paw Patrol” has expanded into a comprehensive franchise, producing numerous TV movies and two successful feature films. Given this growth, it’s not unexpected that another big-screen installment is planned. Officially titled “Paw Patrol 3,” the movie was announced during the release period of its precursor, “Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie.” Details about the plot are scarce, but we do have a date for your calendar: Paramount has scheduled the film to premiere on July 31, 2026.
In a statement made through Deadline, Jennifer Dodge, president of Spin Master Entertainment, declared: “We’re excited to unveil the production of a third film in the ‘PAW Patrol’ series. This new installment will continue expanding the ‘PAW Patrol’ universe, offering thrilling missions and unexplored landscapes for an adventure that promises to be grander-than-ever. As always, it will demonstrate how even tiny paws can leave a huge footprint.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem 2 (October 9, 2026)
In 2023, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles made a comeback to animation with the visually stunning “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem.” The movie was well-received at the box office and by critics, so it’s no surprise that a sequel is in the works. Since “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem” hinted at a sequel and even a TV series, it seems the plan was always to continue the story. The TV series, called “Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles,” premiered on Paramount+ in 2024 and has been equally popular, so expectations are high for the next movie.
In October 2026, the sequel of the series will release, where our favorite turtle quartet – Donnie, Raph, Leo, and Mikey – will encounter their franchise’s most feared adversary: Shredder. Director Jeff Rowe shared with Empire that initially, Shredder was intended for the first movie but was held back for this sequel, much like how The Joker was saved for ‘The Dark Knight.’ Referencing Christopher Nolan’s “Batman” trilogy, he emphasized that Shredder should be 100 times more terrifying than Superfly – a menacing villain who appears credible and dangerous enough to pose a real threat to the Turtles. However, Shredder needs to be much more formidable than that.
Minions 3 (June 30, 2027)
The “Despicable Me” series, which first appeared on screens, has accumulated over $5.5 billion in revenue so far, and this amount is expected to increase with the upcoming “Minions 3.” Following the financial success of “Despicable Me 4,” scheduled for release in 2024, Illumination and Universal revealed plans for a third installment in the “Minions” spin-off series. The film is expected to hit theaters on June 30, 2027, but at this point, details about its plot, returning characters beyond the Minions themselves, or any substantial information are scarce.
The most recent “Minions” film was titled “Minions: The Rise of Gru,” released in 2022 and serving as a prequel similar to its predecessor. This movie delved into Gru’s life when he was just 11 years old, suggesting that the upcoming “Minions 3” may continue this prequel narrative by jumping forward in time, potentially showcasing Gru attending villain school at Lycée Pas Bon. While specific details about the plot are scarce, we can confirm that “Minions 3” will be under the direction of Pierre Coffin, who has been the voice behind the Minions since their debut in “Despicable Me” back in 2010 and also served as its director.
Frozen 3 (November 24, 2027)
2023 saw the release of the extraordinary film “Frozen”, which proved to be a once-in-a-generation cinematic sensation. Its successor, “Frozen 2”, hit theaters in 2019 and added another substantial profit to Disney’s earnings, just like its predecessor, raking in over $400 million at the box office. It came as no surprise when, during a Q1 earnings call in February 2023, Disney CEO Bob Iger announced that a third “Frozen” film was under development – an announcement that undoubtedly brought delight to shareholders. Although Iger didn’t disclose many details at the time, we now know that “Frozen 3” is slated for release on Thanksgiving Day: November 24, 2027.
The artistic previews for “Frozen 3” suggest a connection to Norse mythology, potentially featuring Loki. Bob Iger anticipates another successful run, as there are rumblings about “Frozen 4”. During an interview on Good Morning America (via Variety), Iger mentioned, “We’re developing ‘Frozen 3’, and we might even be working on a ‘Frozen 4’. However, I can’t share many details at the moment. Director Jennifer Lee, who brought us the original ‘Frozen’ and its sequel, is currently brainstorming not one, but two new stories with her team at Disney Animation.
Sing 3 (TBD)
Based on the success of the first two “Sing” films, accumulating over $1 billion collectively, it was logical for Illumination to consider a third installment. In fact, Chris Meledandri, CEO of the company, announced in 2023 that “Sing 3” is in development. He shared with Variety that the film will feature characters from the original cast but will introduce us to a fresh new world.
As a passionate gamer, I can’t hide my excitement upon hearing that “Sing 2” was a massive success on streaming platforms, proving that there’s still a hunger for this captivating franchise. Even though I thought my journey with this franchise had come to an end, it seems that the talented Garth Jennings (the writer and director of both “Sing” and “Sing 2”) might have experienced a change of heart, as he’s now credited as the writer-director for “Sing 3” on IMDb. The release date for this anticipated sequel is yet to be announced, but rest assured that it won’t be too long before we get to dive back into this musical world once again!
Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse (TBD)
Although Sony’s live-action “Spider-Verse” flicks haven’t been blockbusters recently, their animated “Spider-Man” movies tell a different tale. The opening chapters of the “Spider-Verse” saga have been nothing short of breathtaking, showcasing some of the most stunning and original animation ever seen in Tinseltown. These films have been financially successful, with the initial two raking in over a billion dollars collectively at the box office. However, it appears that we’ll have to wait a while longer for the third film.
The movie ‘Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse’ was released in 2018, and it wasn’t until five years later that ‘Across the Spider-Verse’ made its way to cinemas. Given the intricacy of the animation, this time gap seems reasonable. Originally scheduled for a March 2024 premiere, there has been no new ‘Spider-Man’ film since then. It now appears that ‘Beyond the Spider-Verse’ won’t be released until 2026 or 2027.
Based on how “Across the Spider-Verse” concluded, it’s reasonable to assume that the third movie will continue from where the last one left off. In this continuation, Miles Morales (played by Shameik Moore) finds himself stranded in an alternate reality. Here, his counterpart has taken a darker turn and assumed the role of the Prowler. The storyline might involve Miles confronting his own alter ego in some way. Additionally, various Spider-Men variants introduced in the second film may reappear in some form or another.
Incredibles 3 (TBD)
The Incredibles” is a highly popular franchise from Pixar that quickly became a box office sensation upon its release in theaters. To date, there have been just two movies released: the original in 2004 and its sequel, “Incredibles 2,” in 2018. Luckily, we won’t have to wait too long for another installment, as it was announced at the D23 convention in 2024 that “Incredibles 3” is in production. Although no further details have been disclosed since then, director Brad Bird, who directed the first two movies, will be back for the third film. The announcement alone generated a wave of excitement among attendees, as evidenced by their applause.
Currently, there’s no definite release date or plot details available, but it seems likely that Brad Bird will reuse some ideas left over from the second movie. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, he mentioned that due to a change in release dates between “Incredibles 2” and “Toy Story 4,” several concepts had to be removed from the latter, reducing its production time by a year. He suggested that these discarded ideas could potentially be utilized for another “Incredibles” film or something entirely different.
The Adventures of Tintin 2 (TBD)
According to its namesake popular Belgian comic, Steven Spielberg’s film “The Adventures of Tintin,” despite being somewhat underappreciated, performed fairly well at the box office, amassing $373 million from an initial investment of $130 million. This success paved the way for a sequel to be approved, however, more than a decade has transpired since its original release. For quite some time, Peter Jackson has been associated with the project; he initially intended to produce a “Tintin” sequel following his work on the “Hobbit” trilogy. However, it appeared that the subsequent film was doomed to linger in development limbo.
2024 found me, an ardent Tintin enthusiast, thrilled to hear directly from Andy Serkis (the voice behind Captain Haddock in the initial film) that Peter Jackson was still planning his “Tintin” sequel. This news brought a smile to the faces of fans like myself who cherish these classic comics. The first movie was adapted from three Tintin stories: “The Secret of the Unicorn,” “The Crab with the Golden Claws,” and “Red Rackham’s Treasure.” If reports are to be believed, the sequel is expected to draw inspiration from multiple issues, specifically “Prisoners of the Sun” and “The Seven Crystal Balls.
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2024-09-24 14:31