Netflix announced its line-up to this year’s Annecy International Animation Film Festival. Showcasing their ambition to bring the best of animation and storytelling to its members around the world, the studio will present its Netflix Animation Showcase, inspirational masterclasses and the world premiere of “The Sea Beast,” an uncharted sea monster epic adventure from Chris Williams. The Netflix Animation Showcase will include an exclusive first look at Guillermo del Toro’s “Pinocchio” presented at the festival by the filmmaker himself; and a first look at “Entergalactic” from the creative minds of Scott Mescudi and Kenya Barris.
On Monday, June 13, Chris Nee, creator and executive producer of “Doc McStuffins,” the Annie Award-winning preschool series “Ada Twist,” “Scientist,” “Ridley Jones,” and “We the People” begins the activities with a masterclass session at Petite Salle Bonlieu. The focus of Nee’s masterclass will be on the power of inclusive storytelling, and Karissa Valencia, creator of the upcoming Spirit Rangers, will join to provide an early look at the series.
On Wednesday, June 15, Sony Pictures Animation will present the Netflix adult animated series “Agent King” as part of their studio focus with Fletcher Moules, Robert Valley and Antonio Canobbio at the Impérial Palace. Director of “My Father’s Dragon,” Nora Twomey, presents a Work in Progress on the film at Salle Pierre Lamy also on June 15. Inspired by the Newbery-honored children’s book from author Ruth Stiles Gannett, the film from animation studio Cartoon Saloon follows Elmer’s journey as he struggles to cope after a move to the city with his mother, and runs away in search of Wild Island and a young dragon who waits to be rescued.
The Netflix Animation Showcase begins at 1.30 pm on June 15 in Theater Bonlieu. Diving into the upcoming slate of animated series and films, from preschool and kids, to anime, adult, as well as family tent poles, the showcase will feature on-stage and video conversations with Netflix’s team, creators and talent as they celebrate and showcase the variety of animated stories for all ages.
Continuing the activities on June 15, the world premiere of Chris Williams’ monstrous adventure “The Sea Beast” is scheduled at Theater Bonlieu. The film is set in an era when terrifying beasts roamed the seas, monster hunters were celebrated heroes - and none were more beloved than the great Jacob Holland. But when young Maisie Brumble stows away on his fabled ship, he is saddled with an unexpected ally. Together they embark on an epic journey into uncharted waters and make history.
In addition, “Arcane,” “The Cuphead Show!,” “The House,” “Human Resources,” “Robin Robin,” and “We the People” are Official Selections screening in competition at the festival.