Cannes’ Annecy Animation Showcase Lineup Features New Films From Cartoon Saloon, GKIDS, La Cachette and More (EXCLUSIVE) (2025)

Cannes’ Annecy Animation Showcase has become an annual appetizer to June’s Annecy Festival, the year’s main course for all things animation. Today, the event, co-organized by the Marché du Film and Annecy Festival, has unveiled the five titles to be highlighted at its 2025 edition, held on May 18 as part of Cannes’ Animation Day.

The Showcase is more than just a preview; it’s a vital bridge between animation’s artistic ambitions and the industry that facilitates their execution and brings the finished productions to audiences around the world. By spotlighting films in development and production, the showcase supports creators at a pivotal moment in their journey and gives sales agents and distributors an early look at titles that could elevate their future portfolios.

This year’s five titles represent a wide spectrum of voices, from emerging talents to seasoned auteurs, from independent studios to international collaborations. Whether through deeply personal stories, daring stylistic choices or genre-defying narratives, this year’s selection underscores why animation continues to be one of cinema’s most exciting mediums.

“Julián,” Louise Bagnall (Ireland, U.K., Canada, Denmark, Luxembourg)

Producer: Cartoon Saloon
Language: English
Genre: Comedy Drama
Completion: 2026

Adapted from the beloved picture book “Julián is a Mermaid” by Jessica Love, Julián follows a wide-eyed young boy through a summer of discovery, imagination and transformation. With Louise Bagnall (“Late Afternoon”) at the helm and produced by the Oscar-nominated Cartoon Saloon (“The Breadwinner,” “Wolfwalkers”), this coming-of-age tale mixes whimsy and depth in equal measure, promising a story that explores identity, family and the power of self-expression.

“Sunny,” Michael Arias (Japan, U.S.)

Producer: GKIDS, dwarf studios
Language: Japanese
Genre: Drama
Completion: 2029

From “Tekkonkinkreet” director Michael Arias, “Sunny” is a moving narrative set in 1970s Japan. The film takes viewers inside Star Kids, a foster home that’s a sanctuary for children caught in the cracks of society. Told through the eyes of its young inhabitants, Sunny explores the fragile strength of found families and childhood resilience. Though still a few years from completion, the project already signals the return of a masterful voice in anime cinema with a poignant, socially resonant story.

“Ana, en passant,” Fernanda Alves Salgado (Brazil, Portugal)

Producer: Apiario Creative Studio
Language: Portuguese, French
Genre: Drama
Completion: 2026

Rooted in personal grief and the rhythms of healing, “Ana, en passant” centers on a young woman navigating the complex aftermath of her grandmother’s death. Through a lyrical and visually textured style, Brazilian director Fernanda Alves Salgado crafts a journey that’s both intimate and philosophical. This Brazilian-French co-production is a meditation on memory, migration, and the invisible ties that bind generations together.

“Dante” Linda Hambäck (Sweden, Denmark, Norway)

Producer: Lee Film
Language: Swedish
Genre: Comedy
Completion: 2026

Helge is a suspect. Ten million are missing. And “Dante,” a sharp-witted comedy from Swedish director Linda Hambäck, is ready to follow the money—through confusion, chaos, and a lot of laughs. Known for her work on “The Ape Star,” Hambäck brings her signature quirky charm and social insight to this comedic caper. If Scandinavian humor with a side of mystery is your thing, keep Dante on your radar.

“Mu Yi and the Handsome General,” Julien Chheng (France)

Producer: Studio La Cachette
Language: French
Genre: Comedy
Completion: 2026

At just 14, Mu Yi lives a quiet life on a remote Chinese mountain—until she encounters a charismatic but injured general who turns her world upside down. With humor, heart, and a dash of romance, this French-produced tale promises a spirited coming-of-age journey wrapped in stunning visuals. Julien Chheng (The Summit of the Gods) teams up with powerhouse Studio La Cachette – credits include “Star Wars: Visions,” “Love, Death + Robots” and “Primal” – to deliver a film as playful as it is beautifully crafted.