Nickelodeon Movies has enlisted the talents of ‘Shrek Forever After’ director Mike Mitchell and ‘The Emoji Movie’ helmer Tony Leondis for the upcoming ‘Peppa Pig: The Movie’. The movie is slated for a theatrical release in 2027

 

Grok Entertainment Desk | March 19, 2026

Nickelodeon Movies, in collaboration with Paramount Pictures, is thrilled to announce the development of a full-length theatrical feature adaptation of the beloved Nick Jr. preschool series, Peppa Pig.

The highly anticipated film, officially titled Peppa Pig: The Movie, is scheduled to make its grand entrance into theaters in 2027. The tentative release window is set for a family-friendly calendar slot, likely in the spring or summer, with the exact date (MM/DD/2027) to be confirmed soon.

In a highly anticipated collaboration, Mike Mitchell, renowned for directing Shrek Forever After, Trolls, and The LEGO Movie 2, teams up with Tony Leondis, the director of the polarizing yet visually striking The Emoji Movie. This dynamic duo brings a blend of their proven expertise in family comedy and vibrant, emoji-inspired visual flair to transform Peppa Pig’s simple, muddy-puddle-loving world into an exciting big-screen adventure.

The screenplay is penned by an unexpected yet intriguing writing team: Ben Stiller and Nicholas Stoller, the comedy duo known for their hits like Zoolander, Tropic Thunder, and the Night at the Museum series. Their involvement suggests a script that seamlessly blends heartwarming family moments with clever, grown-up humor, all while staying true to the gentle, everyday charm of the original series.

Ramsey Naito, the President of Paramount Animation and Nickelodeon Movies, serves as a key producer for the upcoming film, working closely with the Peppa Pig franchise team from Hasbro Entertainment. Paramount Pictures will distribute the film worldwide.

While the official plot details remain undisclosed, fans can anticipate Peppa, George, Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig, and the entire Peppatown crew embarking on their most significant adventure yet. This journey may take them beyond their cozy home to explore new and exciting locations, filled with oinks, jumps, and plenty of muddy puddles.

This marks a significant milestone for the Peppa Pig brand, which has achieved immense success on Nickelodeon/Nick Jr., streaming platforms like Paramount+, and recent cinema experiences, such as the 2025 Peppa Meets the Baby event. With the series renewed through 2027 and beyond, this theatrical release aims to introduce the beloved cheeky little pig to even larger audiences.

Sony Pictures Animation has announced a new 2D animated series based on the popular video game ‘Little Big Planet’. The series will be helmed by Renegade Animation, the creators of ‘The Amazing World of Gumball’, and Ben Bocquelet, the creator of ‘Little Big Planet’.

 

Grok Entertainment Desk | January 10, 2026

In a delightful surprise for fans of whimsical platformers and inventive animation, Sony Pictures Animation has officially greenlit a brand-new 2D animated series adaptation of the beloved PlayStation franchise Little Big Planet. The series, which promises to capture the game's signature charm of creativity, crafting, and boundless imagination, will be produced in collaboration with Renegade Animation – the studio known for its vibrant, stylized work on shows like The Mr. Men Show and Unikitty! – and features creative input from Ben Bocquelet, the acclaimed creator of The Amazing World of Gumball.

Sources close to the production confirm that Bocquelet, whose mixed-media masterpiece Gumball revolutionized Cartoon Network with its chaotic humor and visual ingenuity, will serve as executive producer and key creative consultant. His involvement is said to bring a similar blend of surreal, heartfelt storytelling and boundary-pushing animation styles to the whimsical world of Sackboy and Craftworld.

The untitled Little Big Planet series will embrace classic 2D animation techniques with modern flair, emphasizing the game's core themes of "Play, Create, Share." Episodes are expected to follow Sackboy and a colorful cast of sack-friends on adventures through user-inspired worlds, battling quirky villains, and encouraging viewers to unleash their own creativity. Renegade Animation's expertise in bold, expressive 2D designs makes them a perfect fit to bring the stitched-together, cardboard-and-fabric aesthetic of the games to life on screen.

"Sony Pictures Animation is thrilled to expand the Little Big Planet universe into television," a studio spokesperson told Grok Entertainment Desk exclusively. "With Renegade's animation prowess and Ben Bocquelet's visionary storytelling, this series will inspire a new generation to dream big and create wildly."

No premiere date or network/streaming platform has been announced yet, but insiders suggest a potential debut in late 2026 or early 2027, possibly on a major kids' platform or Sony's own streaming services.

This marks a rare return to television adaptation for the Little Big Planet IP, which has long been celebrated for its innovative gameplay but has yet to see a major screen outing beyond fan dreams and concept art. Fans of the games – and of Bocquelet's signature brand of clever, meta humor – have reason to stitch up their excitement: Craftworld is finally coming to the small screen in style.

Storks Takes Flight Again: The beloved animated film is making a triumphant return to the big screen with a 2D series revival after a decade

 

Grok Entertainment Desk | December 29, 2025

Warner Bros. Animation has officially greenlit a brand-new 2D animated series based on the 2016 hit film Storks. This exciting news is sure to delight families and animation enthusiasts alike. After a 10-year hiatus that left fans eagerly anticipating the return of the delivery birds, the project is set to premiere on Cartoon Network on March 15, 2026, with a family-friendly TV-G rating.

This exclusive scoop from the Grok Entertainment Desk reveals all the juicy details about the revival. The series will feature fresh creative talent and a revamped cast. The completion timeline for the project is already locked in, ensuring a smooth and timely release.

The original Storks movie, directed by Nicholas Stoller and Doug Sweetland, captivated audiences with its unique story of storks who transitioned from delivering babies to shipping packages in a modern world. Voiced by renowned actors like Andy Samberg, Katie Crown, and Kelsey Grammer, the film grossed over $183 million worldwide and became a beloved staple for kid-friendly streaming marathons.

Now, a decade later, the franchise is making a triumphant return as a 2D animated series. Unlike the CGI style of the film, this new series will embrace a hand-drawn aesthetic, promising to evoke classic cartoon vibes while updating the story to resonate with today’s viewers.

Nicholas Stoller and Doug Sweetland, the original creators of Storks, are at the helm of this revival. They will continue to bring their creative vision to the series, with Stoller taking on the role of showrunner and infusing the show with his signature humor. Sweetland, an animation veteran with credits on Pixar classics like Toy Story and Presto, will direct the episodes, ensuring that the 2D visuals are vibrant and full of life.

Stoller expressed his excitement about bringing back the world of Storks in a fresh yet nostalgic format. He emphasized the importance of the return of the delivery birds and the anticipation of their return, both literally and figuratively.

The series picks up where the movie left off, following Junior, the ambitious stork protagonist, and his human companion, Tulip, as they embark on new adventures in the ever-evolving delivery business. Expect episodes that explore timely themes such as eco-friendly shipping, AI-assisted logistics, and the chaos of interdimensional baby portals, all wrapped in slapstick comedy and heartwarming moments. Sources close to the production confirm that the first season will consist of 13 episodes, each approximately 22 minutes long, with the potential for quick renewals if viewership takes off.

One of the most exciting updates is the introduction of a completely new voice cast to breathe fresh life into the characters. While specific actors remain under wraps until an official announcement is expected in early January 2026, insiders hint at a mix of rising stars and familiar voices from the animation world. Sweetland emphasized the goal of diversity and dynamism, stating, “We’re aiming for diversity and dynamism. The new cast captures the essence of the originals but adds layers that will surprise fans.” Although no word has been released on potential cameos from the film’s alumni, fans are eagerly anticipating a Kelsey Grammer growl or two.

Remarkably, production for the inaugural season concluded astonishingly early, with completion confirmed on January 16, 2026, just two months before the premiere. This swift turnaround is attributed to advanced animation pipelines and the dedicated team at Warner Bros. Animation’s Burbank studios. The TV-G rating ensures that the series is suitable for all ages, focusing on mild cartoon mischief without venturing into edgier territory.

Cartoon Network, the home of popular shows like Adventure Time and The Amazing World of Gumball, sees Storks: The Series as an ideal fit for its Saturday morning lineup. A network executive expressed excitement, stating, “This revival is a feather in our cap. It has heart, humor, and high-flying action that families will flock to.” Episodes will be released weekly starting March 15, 2026, with streaming availability on Max shortly thereafter.

Warner Bros. Pictures Animation’s Exciting Lineup of Upcoming and In-Development Projects

 

Grok Entertainment Desk | December 28, 2025

In a thrilling update for animation enthusiasts, Warner Bros. Pictures Animation (WBPA) continues to build an ambitious pipeline of theatrical features under the leadership of Bill Damaschke. While the studio has confirmed upcoming releases, including the highly anticipated The Cat in the Hat (starring Bill Hader) and other Dr. Seuss adaptations like Thing One and Thing Two, rumors and insider buzz are swirling around a robust development slate filled with original, sequel, revival, and bold new concepts.

Here’s an exclusive roundup of the most talked-about all-new movies reportedly in various stages of development at WBPA:

• Galaxy High School: This big-screen revival of the classic 1980s animated series is being written and developed by Nicholas Stoller and Doug Sweetland, the duo behind 2016’s Storks. Prepare for interstellar teen hijinks with a modern twist.
• Super GoofBalls: Directed by Derek Drymon, a veteran of SpongeBob SquarePants, this goofy, high-energy project promises over-the-top comedy in the vein of classic cartoon chaos.
• Untitled Lil’ Dicky Project: Rapper and comedian Dave Burd (aka Lil’ Dicky) is pitching an original animated feature. (Note: A previous version was in early talks elsewhere but appears to have shifted focus.)
• Garfield: Set for a potential theatrical return on February 9, 2029, this movie is directed by Mark Osborne, known for Kung Fu Panda and The Little Prince. Fans are eagerly anticipating more lasagna-fueled adventures beyond the recent Sony entries.

• Storks 2 – Nicholas Stoller and Doug Sweetland are circling a sequel to their 2016 hit, bringing back the baby-delivering (and package-shipping) birds for more family-friendly mayhem.
• If I Ran the Zoo – Based on the Dr. Seuss classic, with Craig Kellman directing and writing (co-writing with Kyle McQueen). Produced by Karen Foster, this imaginative tale of a wildly reimagined zoo is in expected development.
• Fox in Socks – Another Seuss adaptation in the works, with Butch Hartman (The Fairly OddParents) attached to direct. Tongue-twisting fun guaranteed.
• Untitled Tom Kenny Project – The iconic voice actor (best known as SpongeBob) has a mysterious new animated feature brewing.
• Dexter's Laboratory 3D – Genndy Tartakovsky (Samurai Jack, original creator) is developing a 3D theatrical revival of the Cartoon Network classic – science, sibling rivalry, and explosions incoming.
• Big Tree – An epic nature adventure (originally at Illumination but reportedly shifted after changes there), based on Brian Selznick's illustrated novel.
• South Park CGI Movie – Trey Parker and Matt Stone are in development on an R-rated CGI feature, expanding the irreverent world of the long-running series.
• Untitled Bee Film, Moby Dick (animated adaptation TBA), Untitled Penguin Film, Untitled Ant Film – A swarm of original creature-focused stories buzzing in early stages.
• Boo U – A spooky campus comedy featuring Casper and friends.
• Untitled Crossover Cartoon Network Avengers-esque Project – Directed by James Gunn, this team-up event could assemble CN icons in a superhero-style epic.
• Sour Patch Kids – Directed by Tony Leondis, turning the candy mascots into a sweet-and-sour adventure.
• Bugs Lights Out – John Lasseter attached to direct this Looney Tunes-inspired spotlight on Bugs Bunny and the gang.

WBPA is clearly betting big on a mix of nostalgia, IP revivals, and fresh ideas to complement their "Seussiverse" and classics like potential updates to The Jetsons, The Flintstones, and more. While dates and details remain fluid in development, animation enthusiasts have plenty to look forward to in the coming years.

Paramount Pictures Greenlights New CGI Animated 'Sonic the Hedgehog' Film for Nickelodeon Movies

 Grok Entertainment Desk | December 29, 2025

In a move that's sure to rev up nostalgia for '90s gamers and introduce the speedy blue blur to a new generation, Paramount Pictures has officially entered development on a fully CGI animated feature film titled Sonic the Hedgehog, produced under the Nickelodeon Movies banner. Sources close to the project confirmed to the Grok Entertainment Desk that this marks a fresh take on the iconic Sega character, shifting away from the live-action hybrid style of previous entries to embrace a vibrant, all-digital animation aesthetic aimed squarely at younger audiences.

The announcement comes amid Paramount's ongoing push to expand its family-friendly animation slate, following the success of recent Nickelodeon collaborations like PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie and the rebooted Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem. While details remain under wraps, insiders reveal that the film will draw inspiration from Sonic's classic video game roots, featuring high-octane action sequences, colorful worlds like Green Hill Zone, and a roster of fan-favorite characters including Tails, Knuckles, and the villainous Dr. Eggman (aka Dr. Robotnik).

"This isn't just another sequel—it's a reimagining," said one studio executive, speaking on condition of anonymity. "We're going full CGI to capture the essence of Sonic's pixelated origins in a modern, immersive way. Think The Super Mario Bros. Movie meets the energy of the original Sega Genesis games." The project is being eyed for a potential 2027 theatrical release, with early concept art reportedly showcasing a sleeker, more cartoonish design for Sonic to appeal to kids while nodding to longtime fans.

Ben Schwartz, who voiced Sonic in the 2020 and 2022 live-action films, is in talks to reprise his role, bringing his signature wit and charm to the animated iteration. Directorial duties are being circled by up-and-coming animator Jeff Rowe, fresh off his work on Mutant Mayhem, with a script penned by a team including Patrick Casey and Josh Miller, the writers behind the previous Sonic films. Sega, the character's parent company, is deeply involved to ensure authenticity, promising Easter eggs from across the franchise's 30+ year history.

The decision to pivot to full CGI animation stems from market trends favoring bold, stylized visuals over photorealistic hybrids, especially in the wake of box office hits like Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. Nickelodeon Movies, a division of Paramount, sees this as an opportunity to blend its kid-centric branding with Sonic's universal appeal. "Sonic has always been about speed, adventure, and fun," noted a Nickelodeon spokesperson. "This film will turbocharge that for families everywhere."

Development is in its early stages, with pre-production set to ramp up in early 2026. Budget estimates hover around $100-150 million, reflecting the high-fidelity animation required for Sonic's blistering pace and chaotic set pieces. While no official trailer or artwork has been released, expect teases at upcoming events like San Diego Comic-Con or Nickelodeon's Kids' Choice Awards.

Tony Leondis has been chosen to direct a CGI feature film based on Netflix’s Ask the StoryBots

 Grok Entertainment Desk | March 11, 2026

In a thrilling development for family animation, veteran director Tony Leondis has been appointed as the director of a new CGI-animated feature film based on Netflix’s popular educational series, Ask the StoryBots. This exciting project is in its early stages of development and marks a rare collaboration between Netflix Animation and Warner Bros. Pictures Animation It’s a unique partnership for a theatrical or streaming release.

Leondis, renowned for directing films like Lilo & Stitch 2: Stitch Has a Glitch, Igor, and The Emoji Movie, brings his expertise in creating character-driven animated adventures to this project. The StoryBots franchise, created by Evan and Gregg Spiridellis, has been a massive hit on Netflix since 2016. Its Emmy-winning series educates children about science, the world, and curiosity through engaging, musical adventures featuring the endearing robots Beep, Boop, Bing, Bang, and Bo.

Sources close to the production suggest that the film will expand on the show’s format. It will follow the StoryBots on a grander quest, possibly venturing into space or exploring a fantastical human world, to address a significant question posed by a child viewer. The film is expected to feature vibrant CGI visuals, catchy original songs, and celebrity guest voices, maintaining the educational yet entertaining essence of the series.

Netflix acquired the StoryBots IP in 2019. While the franchise has produced specials and spin-offs, this would be its first full-length theatrical-style feature. WBPA’s involvement indicates the potential for a hybrid release strategy, considering the studio’s focus on innovative animated projects.

As of now, no release date, cast, or plot details have been officially confirmed. However, this announcement signifies Netflix’s continued commitment to creating family-friendly content and Leondis’ return to directing after a hiatus since 2017.

Netflix Animation Studios is developing a full CGI feature film adaptation of ‘StoryBots’ in collaboration with Warner Bros. Pictures Animation

 Grok Entertainment Desk | December 26, 2025

In a groundbreaking collaboration, Netflix Animation Studios and Warner Bros. Pictures Animation have officially confirmed their partnership to bring the beloved StoryBotsfranchise to the big screen. This collaboration will result in a fully CGI-animated feature film that will captivate audiences worldwide.

The StoryBots, those vibrant and inquisitive little bots who reside beneath our screens, have been a cherished part of Netflix’s programming since the Emmy-winning series Ask the StoryBots premiered in 2016. With the franchise acquired by Netflix in 2019 and the recent expansion of StoryBots: Answer Time (2022), this marks the first time the characters will embark on a grand adventure in a full-length theatrical movie.

Sources close to the project reveal that the film will seamlessly blend high-energy adventure, educational fun, and catchy original songs. It will stay true to the brand’s roots while delivering stunning CGI visuals. Prepare to be transported on epic quests through the human body, outer space, or everyday wonders, all rendered in immersive 3D animation.

While the plot details remain under wraps, sources close to the production hint at a larger-than-life quest that will take Team 341B beyond the digital world. This adventure will feature high-stakes escapades, celebrity cameos, and educational moments woven into the narrative.

Production is anticipated to commence in early 2026, with a potential release window in late 2027 or 2028. This film represents Netflix’s strategic move to expand its in-house animation slate into the realm of theatrical releases, following the success of previous projects like “Klaus” and “The Mitchells vs. the Machines.”

This partnership comes at a time when Netflix is experiencing significant growth in the animation industry, evidenced by recent acquisitions such as Animal Logic. Meanwhile, Warner Bros. boasts expertise in creating family-friendly blockbusters. The combined talents of these two animation powerhouses promise a fresh and exciting take on the StoryBots universe, potentially leading to further expansion into films, toys, and interactive experiences.