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Sunny Side Down: Final Episode Released

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Perkins) — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 12:56:00 +0000

From MAKE Originals comes original sci-fi comedy Sunny Side Down. The sixth and final episode in the series has now been released on YouTube. The series is an independently produced, fully hand-drawn 2D micro-series, which takes place in a diner at the edge of a super-massive Black Hole. It's described as Cheers meets Spaceballs meets radical 90's, all wrapped up into six two-minute episodes. It parodies and references a whole range of classic sci-fi properties from Star Trek, The Thing and Star Wars to The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy and Doctor Who.

The series follows Nat, a human waitress with mad scientist tendencies, as she tries to escape the Black Hole's gravitational pull (and her crappy service job). She works alongside Yabba, an ancient diner cook, who knows all but tells nothing. Their official job is to serve the old-timers who frequent the diner, but the universe has a funny way of throwing a wrench into things.

Episode six: Slaininator 2: Sludgement Day is a parody of the Terminator movies. But in this case, the twist is that the Terminator is an alien snail and moves... extremely... slowly. Mysterious stranger Snailah Connor arrives at the Diner, claiming that an unstoppable killing machine is hunting her down, one millimetre at a time. The Diner crew is forced into action, proving that even the most relentless threat in the galaxy can be taken down with the right tools... and a pinch of salt.

The episode is full of action, as well as the usual sci-fi comedy and visual gags. It's another excellent instalment in what has proved to be an excellent series. We'd love to return to the Sunny Side Down one day, whether it's as more shorts or even a longer-form series on a major network or streamer.

The series was produced entirely in-house at MAKE, made between client work over the course of three years. It is directed by Natalia Poteryakhin and written by Kevin Wisdom, Mike Fasolo and Natalia Poteryakhin. It features the vocal talents of Abigail Turner, Marina Kalmykova, Matt Ellis, Dawn M. Benett, Joe Gaudett and more.

Watch the episode below, or find the full series here

'Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse' First Look Images Released

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Perkins) — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 11:19:00 +0000

If any one upcoming animated film can be said to be most anticipated by fans, it's probably Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse. The third part in the Spider-Verse trilogy was originally scheduled to come out just a year after the second part, Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse, but was ultimately pushed back to 2027. With the release now a little over a year away, Sony Pictures Animation have released some first-look images from the film.

The Spider-Verse trilogy began in 2018 with Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. It introduced audiences for the first time to an alternative Spider-Man, in the form of Afro-Latino teen Miles Morales. Like Peter Parker before him, Miles was bitten by a radioactive spider that gifted him superpowers. The film also introduced the concept of the multiverse, that saw Miles team up with a selection of other spider-people, including an alternative middle-aged schlubby Peter Parker, Spider Gwen, Peter Porker (otherwise known as the Amazing Spider-Ham) and Spider-Man Noir. Produced by Phil Lord and Chris Miller and directed by Bob Persichetti, Peter Ramsey and Rodney Rothman, the film attracted a great deal of acclaim, going on to win the 2019 Oscar for Best Animated Feature.

2023's Across The Spider-Verse saw Miles leave his home dimension for an adventure across the Multiverse. There, he encounters a whole Spider Society of Spider-people (and cats and dinosaurs), and must face off against a new threat unlike anything he has seen yet. Lord and Miller returned as producers but this time Joaquim Dos Santos, Kemp Powers and Justin K. Thompson take over as directors. The second movie attracted similar levels of acclaim as the first film (although it missed out on the Oscar) and left us with one hell of a cliff-hanger.

Beyond The Spider-Verse will be written by Phil Lord, Chris Miller and Dave Callaham and is directed by series veterans Bob Persichetti and Justin K. Thompson. The official synopsis reads:

Hunted by Miguel O’Hara’s Spider Society and betrayed by his friends, Miles finds himself in the darkest corners of the Spider-Verse in search of a way home. Knowing that his family has been not only fractured but endangered by his calling, it’s a race against the clock for Miles to travel across the wildest reaches of time and space to fight for and reunite everything he holds most dear.

This suggests that the threequel might incorporate a time travel element, which could be new and exciting territory for the franchise. Perhaps the older version of Miles we met at the end of the last film isn't from another dimension, but is from his future? It definitely opens up new storytelling possibilities.

The press release describes the film as the "final" chapter of the Spider-Verse saga, but this is unlikely to be the last we see of the franchise. There's room for further adventures of Miles, plus spin-offs are planned such as a female-led film and one starring Spider Punk. Spider-Man Noir is even getting his own live-action series starring Nicolas Cage.

The first-look images, which you can see above and below, give us our first taste of the third film, without giving too much away. We can expect some dynamic visuals, touching family scenes and the return of Spider-Punk. As for the rest of it, your guess is as good as ours. And we can't wait.

Barring any further delays, Spider-Verse: Beyond The Spider-Verse will be released in cinemas on June 20, 2027.

KickStart This! : The Sludge Brothers- Episode 2

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Perkins) — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 11:36:00 +0000

Way back in the mists of time (well... 2024) we covered the KickStarter for the indie pilot The Sludge Brothers. Following the success of that campaign, creator Payton Finney, aka PFINNEY has returned to crowdfunding to help him make The Sludge Brothers Episode 2: The Greasy Goiter.

Following the success of the original campaign, Finney was able to hire a team of talented animators and artists to complete the 11-minute pilot episode. It followed titular brothers Dick and Pickle as they worked on the city's sewer system. In the second episode, the siblings visit the bar and grill The Greasy Goiter for a plumbing job. Things quickly go south for the pair, while Pickle tries to win back the affections of Dill,

Finney says he wrote and storyboarded episode 2 quite a while ago but now finally has time to move it into production. The purpose of the Kickstarter is to raise the funds to hire some talented artists to help produce the episode. The episode has a wider scope and tells more of a story than the pilot. It will be double the run-time at 23 minutes.

The episode will see the return of main characters Dick, Pickle and Dill, and will introduce new characters such as Gary Goiterman, Tess Tickle and Edith. Talented voice performers are attached for each of the new roles.

The project seeks a base goal of $15,000. "While this isn't enough to hire artists for everything, it'll cover costs for the things I definitely need help with." The campaign has stretch goals set at $30,000 and $50,000, which would enable them to hire more animators and/or pay existing animators and artists more.

Finney has already completed pre-production, which includes scripts, storyboards, character designs, animatics and voice acting.

Rewards start at $1 for "a bite of Pickle's egg salad sandwich" (a thank you from PFINNEY), $5.00 for behind the scenes updates and $10.00 for access to the animatic and a PDF of all the art created during production. $15.00 will get you a digital download of the completed episode. At the pricier side, $100 will net you an original piece of character artwork, $250 will see you added as a background character, and $2,500 will get you the position of "executive producer rat".

The project is seeking a minimum of $15,000 by Friday, May 8. It's an all-or-nothing campaign, so if will only be funded if it reaches its goal.

To help make it happen for the Sludge Brothers: Episode 2, visit the campaign page now.

Out This Week: Colorful Stage The Movie, Gundam Seed Freedom and Ushio & Tora

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Perkins) — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 09:43:00 +0000

Welcome back to Out This Week, our weekly new release round-up. As we enter one of the quietest parts of the year, new releases are thin on the ground. In fact, we have only 3 new releases in the US this week: Colorful Stage The Movie: A Miku That Can't Sing, Mobile Suit Gundam SEED FREEDOM on 4K and the complete series collection of Ushio & Tora.

There are no new animation home entertainment releases in the UK this week.

All information is correct to the best of our knowledge and is subject to change.

US Releases For April 14, 2026

Colorful Stage the Movie: A Miku Who Can't Sing (GKIDS/Shout Factory, PG) "Ichika is a high school musician who can enter a mysterious place called “SEKAI,” where she and her friends express their innermost emotions through music alongside Hatsune Miku. One day after giving a live performance, Ichika meets a new Miku that she has never seen before. No matter how hard this new Miku tries to sing, she struggles connecting with the hearts of her listeners. Miku must rely on the help of others to find a way to sing again."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray Collector's Edition

Mobile Suit Gundam SEED FREEDOM 4K (Crunchyroll, TV-MA) "In C.E.75, the fighting still continues. There are independence movements, and aggression by Blue Cosmos... In order to calm the situation, a global peace monitoring agency called COMPASS is established, with Lacus as its first president. As members of COMPASS, Kira and his comrades intervene into various regional battles. Then a newly established nation called Foundation proposes a joint operation against a Blue Cosmos stronghold."

FORMATS: 4K UHD

Ushio & Tora The Complete TV Series (Sentai Filmworks, TV-MA) "Some families have skeletons in their closets, but what Ushio discovers hidden in his family’s temple is even more shocking: a huge tiger striped demon pinned by a holy spear! And then things quickly get even worse as Tora’s presence starts to attract other malevolent supernatural entities like flies after sugar, and the only way to fight them is with the spear… which not only binds Ushio’s soul to it, but frees Tora in the process! Thus begins a very uneasy alliance as spear-wielding teen and demon are forced to team up in the wildest and weirdest “buddy” adventure ever animated: Ushio & Tora!"

FORMATS: Blu-Ray

Upcoming Releases

Looney Tunes: The Day The Earth Blew Up April 20 [UK]

Famous Studios Champion Collection April 21

Hair High (Bill Plympton) April 21

Shangri-La Frontier Season 2 April 21

Tada Never Falls In Love April 21

Yandere Dark Elf: She Chased Me All the Way From Another World! April 28

Bloom Into You May 5

The Legend Of Hei 2 May 12

The Apothecary Diaries Season 1 May 19

Arco May 19

Looney Tunes Cartoons: The Complete Series May 19

Scarlet May 19

Fleischer Cartoons: Greatest Hits, Volume 1 May 26

Masters Of The Universe: Revelation and Revolution June 2

Nana: Complete Collection June 2

The Land Of Sometimes June 08 [UK]

Alien Nine June 9

Sailor Moon Crystal Seasons 1-3 June 9

Hotori: Simply Wishing For Hope June 9

Heavy Metal L-Gaim June 16

Perfect Blue 4K Steelbook June 16

Rock Is A Lady's Modesty June 16

Yandere Dark Elf June 16

Chivalry Of A Failed Knight June 23

I Left My A-Rank Party to Help My Former Students Reach the Dungeon Depths! June 23

Doctor Stone: Season Four: Part One June 30

Primal: Season 3 June 30

Dan Da Dan Season 2 July 14

Lupin The 3rd The Movie: Immortal Bloodline July 21

The Apothecary Diaries Season 1 [Steelbook] July 28

Out This Week: Over The Garden Wall, One Piece, Scott Pilgrim Takes Off and More

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Perkins) — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 13:42:00 +0000

Welcome back to Out This Week, our regular new release round-up. Not much to report this week, as there's only a handful of releases on either side of the pond. New Stateside this week are anime titles Farming in Another World and One Piece Season Fourteen, Voyage Nine and a pair of Captain Tsubasa releases on DVD- just in time for the World Cup. Also new is a new edition of the classic Cartoon Network mini-series Over The Garden Wall.

New in the UK this week is Fate/Grand Carnival and the previously Netflix-exclusive Scott Pilgrim Takes Off.

All information is correct to the best of our knowledge and is subject to change.

UK Releases For April 6, 2026

Fate/Grand Carnival : Complete Collection (MVM Entertainment, 12 ) "Fate Grand Carnival Standard Edition: Fate/Grand Carnival contains OVA episodes 1-4 which include both episodes from Season 1: The First Singularity Party, Heroic Spirit Limitation Grand Festival Olympia and The Second Singularity Party, Nighttime Singularity Kabukicho; as well as The Third Singularity Party, The Documentary: Broadening Gap of Heroic Spirits ~Heroic Spirit Labor Standards Law~ and The Fourth Singularity Party, MAX Bond Channel from Season 2 all directed by Seiji Kishi"

FORMATS: Blu-Ray

Buy From Amazon

Scott Pilgrim Takes Off (Universal Studios, 15) "A 20-something Toronto indie rocker's adventures in getting and keeping jobs, avoiding being kicked out of his apartment, and surviving encounters with the seven evil exes of the new girl in town on whom he has a crush."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray

Buy From Amazon

US Releases For April 07, 2026

Captain Tsubasa : Season One (Viz Media, Rated TV-PG) "Tsubasa Ozora, who loves soccer more than anything else, transfers to Nankatsu Elementary School and quickly becomes friends with Ryo Ishizaki and Taro Misaki, two other young soccer players. Soon Tsubasa and his friends begin a journey that will have him play against the toughest competition from all over Japan, growing as a soccer player the whole way. With its refreshing story, unique characters, and powerful techniques, Captain Tsubasa is based on a hugely popular manga that hit not just in Japan but around the globe. It has even influenced the real soccer world, with top players from many countries crediting the series as the reason they first became passionate about soccer."

FORMATS: DVD

Buy From Amazon

Captain Tsubasa: Junior Youth Arc Complete Season (Viz Media, TV-PG) "As the captain of his Junior High School soccer team, Tsubasa Ozora is determined ti lead Nankatsu MS to their third consecutive national title! His Opponents: Shun Nitta, Makoto Soda, and the Tachibana brothers will not make things easy, especially his biggest rival: Kojiro Hyuga.Can Tsubasa finally master the 'Drive Shot' technique and overcome all of his obstacles? The last summer of Junior High is about to begin!!"

FORMATS: DVD

Buy From Amazon

Farming Life in Another World: Complete Series (Sentai Filmworks, TV-14) "Becoming a farmer in a fantasy world was supposed to make up for Hiraku Machio’s terrible previous life. However, his new life gets off to a rocky start when his reincarnation begins in a place called the Forest of Death. Although he has a new, stronger body and an all-powerful farming tool, his attempts at living an idyllic farm life are constantly interrupted by nuisances like lizardmen, dragons, and alcoholic slimes. And did we mention the beautiful vampire and angel who move in with him, or the elven refugees who just made Hiraku’s forest their new home? Okay, it may not be what Hiraku’s always dreamed of, but at least he’s a farmer, and that’s all just part of his new Farming Life in Another World!"

FORMATS: Blu-Ray Steelbook

Buy From Amazon

One Piece Season Fourteen, Voyage Nine (Crunchyroll, TV-14) "Battles erupt across the island! Big Mom chases Chopper in his tank form, Luffy faces Ulti until Yamato interferes, and the Nine Red Scabbards attack Kaido. After Momonosuke risks execution by declaring himself future Shogun, Kaido announces his plan to move Onigashima to the Flower Capital. The future they're fighting for is clear, but the Beast Pirates' best are still standing."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray+DVD

Buy From Amazon

Over The Garden Wall The Complete Series (Warner Bros, TV-PG) "Brothers Wirt and Greg find themselves lost in a mysterious forest called the Unknown, and must attempt to find their way home."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray

Buy From Amazon

Upcoming Releases

Colorful Stage: The Movie April 14

Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Freedom 4k April 14

Ushio and Tora: Complete Series April 14

Looney Tunes: The Day The Earth Blew Up April 20 [UK]

Famous Studios Champion Collection April 21

Hair High (Bill Plympton) April 21

Shangri-La Frontier Season 2 April 21

Tada Never Falls In Love April 21

Yandere Dark Elf: She Chased Me All the Way From Another World! April 28

Bloom Into You May 5

The Legend Of Hei 2 May 12

The Apothecary Diaries Season 1 May 19

Arco May 19

Looney Tunes Cartoons: The Complete Series May 19

Scarlet May 19

Fleischer Cartoons: Greatest Hits, Volume 1 May 26

Masters Of The Universe: Revelation and Revolution June 2

Nana: Complete Collection June 2

Alien Nine June 9

Sailor Moon Crystal Seasons 1-3 June 9

Hotori: Simply Wishing For Hope June 9

Heavy Metal L-Gaim June 16

Rock Is A Lady's Modesty June 16

Yandere Dark Elf June 16

Chivalry Of A Failed Knight June 23

I Left My A-Rank Party to Help My Former Students Reach the Dungeon Depths! June 23

Doctor Stone: Season Four: Part One June 30

Primal: Season 3 June 30

Dan Da Dan Season 2 July 14

Lupin The 3rd The Movie: Immortal Bloodline July 21

The Apothecary Diaries Season 1 [Steelbook] July 28

KickStart This: The Cat And The Bird

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Perkins) — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 15:43:00 +0000

Oscar-qualifying filmmaker David Shen Miller has launched a crowdfunding campaign for his latest animated short film The Cat and The Bird, a visually ambitious film made out of 5,000 hand-painted frames.

Now live on KickStarter, the film tells the story of a lonely cat who forms a relationship with an anxious bird, and is brought to life through a meticulous process. The film is made frame by frame in a technique that combines original painting with digital animation techniques and cinematic storytelling. At a time when loneliness is reportedly at an all-time high, the film seeks to express feelings of loneliness, isolation and the need for connection.

The campaign is off to an impressive start, currently sitting at 85% of its initial $18,000 goal, with 7 days to go.

In parallel with the film's development, Miller has been extensively documenting its production on social media. Offering audiences a close look at the production, it offered a behind-the-scenes preview of the painstaking work that goes into each frame. It spans from storyboarding to digital animation, to printouts and hand-painted embellishments. Several of these videos have gone viral, reaching millions of views and attracting attention to the project.

Miller's previous short The Cocoon, attracted considerable industry attention, entering the Oscar conversation and attracting coverage from The Hollywood Reporter. It positioned him as an upcoming voice in independent animation.

The Cat and The Bird is produced by Andrew Seth Cohen and Ryan Kieffer of Confidential Creative, whose past work includes collaborations with major names like Maroon 5 and Carrie Underwood.

The project brings together a collective of artists from around the world, including lead animator Pepe Gomez, background artist Joao Faria, storyboard artist Jisun Huang, animators Jaki Haboon and Pablo Smerling, fill-in artist Paolo Russo, concept artist Connor McNally, and acrylic painters Kelsey Skordal and Lauren Lozita. They all play their part in an analogue-first endeavour, that is in stark contrast to the digital and A.I. approaches employed by much animation today.

By combining digital animation, fine art techniques and narrative filmmaking, The Cat and The Bird aims to deliver a deeply personal and visually distinctive short that celebrates both art and storytelling.

Rewards include digital screeners plus the opportunity to own a frame from the film (painted or unpainted, depending on the tier) as well as producer credits, access to work-in-progress screeners, and festival screenings. Rewards range from $5.00 to $5,000 (for a full producer credit).

If you want to help The Cat and The Bird see the light of day, visit the campaign page now.

Metrograph Presents The Weird and Wonderful World of Czech Animation

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Perkins) — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 12:49:00 +0000

Eastern Europe used to have a reputation for arthouse, avant-garde animation. One of the chief producers in the region was Czechia (or Czechoslovakia as it was then). Post communism, the country has continued to produce animation. New York's Metrograph is hosting a season of The Weird and Wonderful World of Czech Animation, celebrating films from 1949 to 2025.

The season runs from April 5 until April 18. On the final day, Oscar-nominated filmmaker Daria Kashcheeva will be in attendance. Her 2020 film Daughter was nominated for an Academy Award, and her 2023 film Electra was awarded Best International Short Film at Toronto International Film Festival. Both films will be screened, alongside Daria's three picks for a Carte Blanche selection.

She'll also be giving a special introduction ahead of Jiří Barta's The Pied Piper (1986), which screens preceded by his 1982 short film The Vanished World of Gloves.

Also screening is Jan Švankmajer's Alice (1988), Karel Zeman's Invention for Destruction and a Czechoslovak shorts program.

It is widely speculated that the particular Czech genius for stop-motion animation comes from a tradition of puppetry theatre that stretched back centuries. Whatever the reasons may be, there is an abundance of excellent stop-motion animation that has come out of a relatively small country, from the post-war golden age to the present day. In The Weird and Wonderful World of Czech Animation, The Metrograph explores this history, which includes Hermína Týrlová, “The Mother of Czech animation”, the fantastic world-building of Karel Zeman, the surreal and disturbing worlds of Jiří Barta and Jan Švankmajer, right up to the contemporary work of Daria Kashcheeva.

The shorts program features the following:

A program of short works from some of the finest creative minds in Czechoslovak animation. Includes Karel Zeman’s Inspiration, a dialogue-free film featuring glass figurines of characters drawn from commedia dell’arte; Jan Švankmajer’s Dimensions of Dialogue, which no less a personage than Terry Gilliam called one of the 10 best animated films of all time; Jiří Barta’s A Ballad about Green Wood, inspired by the Legend of Vesna, a well-known piece of Slavic folklore; Břetislav Pojar’s Romance, which combines puppet and rarely utilized “pin screen” animation (most familiar from the prologue to Orson Welles’s The Trial); Michaela Pavlatova’s Reci Reci Reci, nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film; and Hermína Týrlová and František Sádek’s immediately postwar The Revolt of the Toys, in which the playthings of the title unite in pursuit of a Nazi soldier (!).

The season is in collaboration with the Czech Center New York. For more information and tickets see here.

Crunchyroll Reveal More Spring Anime

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Perkins) — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 09:55:00 +0000

Last month anime streamer Crunchyroll revealed their initial slate for the Spring anime season. Hotly anticipated new titles include Drops of God, Witch Hat Atelier, Daemons Of The Shadow Realm and LIAR GAME.

Now they have revealed the full lineup for this month, which includes 8 new previously unannounced titles, including The Classroom of a Black Cat and a Witch, Killed Again, Mr. Detective, RILAKKUMA, and Ace of the Diamond Act II -Second Season-.

It also includes a selection of titles continuing from Winter, including Digimon Beatbreak and Star Detective Precure, and returning series, including Dorohedoro Season 2, Doctor Stone Science Future, One Piece, Rent-a-Girlfriend and more.

All new and returning shows premiering this month are listed below. The new titles are in bold.

ALL-NEW SERIES

Agents of the Four Seasons Dance of Spring - MARCH 28
The Food Diary of Miss Maid - MARCH 31
The strongest job is apparently not a hero or a sage, but an appraiser (provisional)! - MARCH 31
Always a Catch! - APRIL 1
Go For It, Nakamura-kun!! - APRIL 1
Haibara's Teenage New Game+ - APRIL 2
Killed again, Mr. Detective. - APRIL 2
RILAKKUMA - APRIL 3
SNOWBALL EARTH - APRIL 3
Daemons of the Shadow Realm - APRIL 4
NEEDY GIRL OVERDOSE - APRIL 4
Kusunoki's Garden of Gods - APRIL 4
Mistress Kanan is Devilishly Easy - APRIL 4
Ace of the Diamond act II -Second Season- - APRIL 5
GHOST CONCERT : Missing Songs - APRIL 5
Witch Hat Atelier - APRIL 6
An Observation Log of My Fiancée Who Calls Herself a Villainess - APRIL 6
LIAR GAME - APRIL 6
The Klutzy Class Monitor and the Girl with the Short Skirt - APRIL 6
Eren the Southpaw - APRIL 7
Even a Replica Can Fall in Love - APRIL 7
I Made Friends with the Second Prettiest Girl in My Class - APRIL 7
MARRIAGETOXIN - APRIL 7
My Ridiculous Reincarnation - APRIL 7
Pardon the Intrusion, I'm Home! - APRIL 7
Gals Can't Be Kind to Otaku!? - APRIL 8
A Hundred Scenes of AWAJIMA - APRIL 9
The Warrior Princess and the Barbaric King - APRIL 9
Kujima: Why Sing, When You Can Warble? - APRIL 9
Botan Kamiina Fully Blossoms When Drunk - APRIL 10
The Drops of God - APRIL 10
The Classroom of a Black Cat and a Witch - APRIL 12
I Want to End this Love Game - APRIL 14

RETURNING SERIES

Dorohedoro Season 2 - APRIL 1
Reborn as a Vending Machine, I Now Wander the Dungeon Season 3 - APRIL 1
The Beginning After the End Season 2 - APRIL 1
Classroom of the Elite 4th Season: Second Year, First Semester - APRIL 1
Dr. STONE SCIENCE FUTURE Cour 3 - APRIL 2
That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 4 - APRIL 3
The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten 2 - APRIL 3
Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun Season 4 - APRIL 4
Ascendance of a Bookworm: Adopted Daughter of an Archduke - APRIL 4
ONE PIECE – Arc Elbaph - APRIL 5
Re:ZERO -Starting Life in Another World- Season 4 - APRIL 8
Rent-a-Girlfriend Season 5 - APRIL 8
Wistoria: Wand and Sword Season 2 - APRIL 12

SERIES CONTINUING FROM WINTER 2026

Digimon Beatbreak – New episodes on Saturdays
Scum of the Brave – New episodes on Saturdays
Star Detective Precure! – New episodes on Saturdays

Out This Week: The SpongeBob Movie Search For SquarePants. Lupin The 3rd, Spy X Family: Code White and More

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Perkins) — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 14:32:00 +0000

Welcome to another edition of Out This Week, our weekly new release round-up. New this week is the latest SpongeBob movie The Search For SquarePants. Also new are a pair of releases featuring iconic gentleman theif Lupin The 3rd: Specials Collection One and Lupin The 3rd Vs Cats Eye. Rounding out the releases are vintage animation Scooby's All-Star Laff-A-Lympics and retro anime Voltes 5 and Zone Of The Enders.

Search For Square Pants is also released in the UK this week. Also new is season 2 of Solo Leveling, Naruto Shipuden Volume 2, Possibly The Greatest Alchemist Of All Time and Macross Plus: The Movie. Getting 4K releases this week are Kung Fu Panda 3 and Kung Fu Panda 4, while Dragon Ball Super: Broly gets a new Steelbook edition.

All information is correct to the best of our knowledge and is subject to change.

UK Releases For March 30, 2026

Dragon Ball Super: Broly (Crunchyroll, PG ) "Knowing that there are increasingly powerful forces in the universe that he has yet to encounter, Goku spends all of his time training to achieve even greater strength. But, one fateful day a mysterious new Saiyan appears before Goku and Vegeta: Broly. How can a Saiyan—a member of the proud warrior race that was completely annihilated after the destruction of Planet Vegeta—appear here on Earth? With Frieza’s return from hell, a fierce battle awaits the three mighty Saiyans who have followed completely different destinies."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray Steelbook

Buy From Amazon

Kung Fu Panda 3 (Spirit Entertainment, PG) "When Po's long-lost panda father suddenly reappears, the reunited duo travels to a secret panda paradise to meet scores of hilarious new panda characters. But when the supernatural villain Kai begins to sweep across China defeating all the kung fu masters, Po must do the impossible—learn to train a village full of his fun-loving, clumsy brethren to become the ultimate band of Kung Fu Pandas."

FORMATS: 4K UHD

Buy From Amazon

Kung Fu Panda 4 (Spirit Entertainment, PG) "After Po is tapped to become the Spiritual Leader of the Valley of Peace, he needs to find and train a new Dragon Warrior, while a wicked sorceress plans to re-summon all the master villains whom Po has vanquished to the spirit realm."

FORMATS: 4K UHD

Buy From Amazon

Macross Plus: The Movie (Anime Ltd., 12) "Movie compilation edition of the acclaimed OVA."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray

Buy From Amazon

Naruto Shippuden Volume 2 (Anime Ltd., 12) "After several grueling battles, Gaara is rescued from the clutches of the evil Akatsuki! But the damage is done, and his life hangs in the balance! Back in the Village Hidden in the Leaves, Naruto gets an unwelcome surprise when he’s attacked by a cold and unfeeling shinobi named Sai, who is assigned to be his new teammate. The new Team Kakashi sets out on a spying mission in Orochimaru’s deadly lair. A fateful encounter brings Naruto face-to-face with his old teammate now turned enemy, Sasuke!"

FORMATS: Blu-Ray

Buy From Amazon

Possibly The Greatest Alchemist Of All Time The Complete Series (Crunchyroll, 15)" Accidentally summoned to another world and given the ability of alchemy, Takumi decides to make life better by “inventing” modern technology. But when he becomes the target of a powerful empire, he must join the fight against them to protect his dream."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray

Buy From Amazon

Solo Leveling Season 2 (Crunchyroll, 15) "On a warpath to save his mother, Sung Jinwoo clears deadlier dungeons, grows his shadow army, and officially becomes S-Rank. But when the ant colony on Jeju Island evolves, Jinwoo must work with some of the world’s best hunters to take down their queen."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray, Blu-Ray Limited Edition

Buy From Amazon

The SpongeBob Movie: Search For Square Pants (Paramount Pictures, PG) "Follows SpongeBob as he travels to the depths of the ocean to face the ghost of the Flying Dutchman."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray, Blu-Ray Steelbook

Buy From Amazon

Spy x Family The Movie: Code White (Anime Ltd., 12) "After receiving an order to be replaced in Operation Strix, Loid decides to help Anya win a cooking competition at Eden Academy, by making the director's favourite meal in order to prevent his replacement."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray+DVD+CD Collector's Edition, Blu-Ray

Buy From Amazon

US Releases For March 31, 2026

Lupin The 3rd: Specials Collection One Specials 1-5 (Discotek Media, UR)"

TV Specials 1-5 in one collection! Includes the following specials in HD: BYE-BYE LADY LIBERTY: Lupin comes out of retirement for one last heist with Jigen—stealing the Super Egg diamond from the Statue of Liberty—only to face a secret organization, a young hacker, and double-crossing Fujiko. THE HEMINGWAY PAPERS: A lost Hemingway manuscript clues Lupin to hidden treasure, pitting him—with Jigen, Goemon, and bartender Maria—against mercenary Crazy Mash and tycoon Marces amid civil war. NAPOLEON'S DICTIONARY: A Napoleon dictionary hides the Lupin family treasure; when it's the prize in a historic car race, Lupin and his crew battle global superpowers to steal it. FROM SIBERIA WITH LOVE: Lupin targets Romanov gold in a Texas bank, aided by Jigen, Fujiko, and Judy Scott—against the New York Mafia and telepathic Rasputin heir Rasputon. VOYAGE TO DANGER: Lupin hijacks a Russian nuclear sub to help reassigned Zenigata, teaming with physicist Karen (who likes Jigen)—while his replacement assassin targets the gang."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray

Buy From Amazon

Lupin The 3rd Vs Cat's Eye (Discotek Media, UR) "Hitomi, Rui, and Ai are sisters and cat burglars. They steal a painting from a museum around the same time Lupin the 3rd appears to steal another painting himself. Both paintings are part of Michael Heinz's series titled the Girl and the Flowers. To the girls, the paintings are clues for their missing father's whereabouts. When they learn Lupin is after the same target, a fire lights inside them."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray

Buy From Amazon

Scooby's All-Star Laff-a-Lympics (Warner Bros, UR) "Sports, spoofs, and shenanigans abound when three teams of favorite Hanna-Barbera characters – the Scooby Doobies, the Yogi Yahooeys and the Really Rottens 0compete for glory in all 24 original episodes of this fan-favorite series. Hosted by yellow-jacketed commentators Snagglepuss and Mildew Wolf, the fractured face-offs feature other animated immortals joining Scooby Doo including Huckleberry Hound, Yogi Bear, Wally Gator, Dynomutt and many more. Hilarious events include Skateboard Polo and the Three-Legged Kilt Race, plus nontraditional challenges like the Fill up the Oasis Race and the Big Ben Tower Climb. From one outrageous contest to the next, this action-packed collection is an absolute medal-winner!! This Blu-ray collection brings together all the episodes from this fan-favorite, remastered in High Definition. The collection also includes the 2012 special "SCOOBY-DOO! SPOOKY GAMES" as a special feature, which revisited the "Laff-a-Lympics" with Scooby and his pals."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray

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The SpongeBob Movie: Search For Square Pants (Paramount Pictures, PG) "Follows SpongeBob as he travels to the depths of the ocean to face the ghost of the Flying Dutchman."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray+DVD+Digital, Blu-Ray Steelbook, DVD

Buy From Amazon

Voltes V: The Complete Series (Discotek Media, UR) "The merciless invaders of the Boazan Empire have set their sights on Earth. But their coming was foreseen: Many years ago, Dr. Goh and his allies began constructing a giant robot to battle the coming threat. Dr. Goh went missing soon after, but his team chose five elite youngsters to pilot the mighty Voltes V... including his own three sons! As the second of Tadao Nagahama's 'romantic' robot series, Voltes V continued to cultivate the high drama and social relevance that would make mecha shows an all-ages affair. An international hit exploring themes of family, prejudice, and the nature of humanity itself, Voltes V was and remains an enduring masterpiece of the genre!"

FORMATS: Blu-Ray

Buy From Amazon

Zone Of The Enders: Perfect Collection (Discotek Media, UR) "ZONE OF THE ENDERS 2167: IDOLO

The year is 2167, and tensions between Earth and Mars are at a breaking point. Amid the rising unrest, BAHRAM officer Radam Levans and his fiery subordinate, Sergeant Viola, are abruptly reassigned to a remote outpost on the Martian frontier-Noctis Base. What awaits them isn't exile... it's a secret. There, hidden from Earth's watchful eye, Radam is reunited with his lover, Dolores-and introduced to Idolo, a top-secret, next-generation humanoid weapon that could change the fate of Mars forever.

ZONE OF THE ENDERS: DOLORES, I

A washed-up cargo hauler named James Links is just trying to scrape by aboard his rusted freighter, the Ender. When a shady deal puts him in charge of delivering a mysterious container, everything changes. Ambushed en route by a deadly attacker, James discovers the cargo is no ordinary shipment-it's Dolores, a prototype Orbital Frame with a hidden connection to his past. Inside her memory core lies a message from his wife... believed dead on Mars years ago."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray

Buy From Amazon

Upcoming Releases

Fate/Grand Carnival April 6 [UK]

Scott Pilgrim Takes Off April 6 [UK]

The Dagger Of Kamui April 7

Farming Life In Another World April 7

One Piece : Season 14 voyage 9 April 7

Over The Garden Wall April 7

Colorful Stage: The Movie April 14

Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Freedom 4k April 14

Ushio and Tora: Complete Series April 14

Looney Tunes: The Day The Earth Blew Up April 20 [UK]

Famous Studios Champion Collection April 21

Hair High (Bill Plympton) April 21

Shangri-La Frontier Season 2 April 21

Tada Never Falls In Love April 21

Yandere Dark Elf: She Chased Me All the Way From Another World! April 28

Bloom Into You May 5

The Legend Of Hei 2 May 12

The Apothecary Diaries Season 1 May 19

Arco May 19

Scarlet May 19

Fleischer Cartoons: Greatest Hits, Volume 1 May 26

Masters Of The Universe: Revelation and Revolution June 2

Nana: Complete Collection June 2

Alien Nine June 9

Hotori: Simply Wishing For Hope June 9

Heavy Metal L-Gaim June 16

Rock Is A Lady's Modesty June 16

Yandere Dark Elf June 16

Chivalry Of A Failed Knight June 23

I Left My A-Rank Party to Help My Former Students Reach the Dungeon Depths! June 23

Doctor Stone: Season Four: Part One June 30

Primal: Season 3 June 30

Annecy Reveals Official Short Selection

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Perkins) — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 14:55:00 +0000

It may only just be Spring, but we're already looking forward to the Summer. Specifically, this June's Annecy International Animation Film Festival. For one week every summer the picturesque alpine French town of Annecy becomes the centre of the animation world.

In the months leading up to the event, the festival gradually reveals its official selection, events and line -up. This year's unveiling has begun with the reveal of this year's short selection. They include the Official Shorts Selection, films for young audiences, Off Limits, Perspectives, Graduate Films, Commissioned Films and TV Films. Two new categories are also introduced this year: Midnight Films and WTF?

In total 141 films were selected, representing 43 countries. The festival also unveiled its official poster, which was drawn by Canadian artist and National Film Board Of Canada veteran Randall Finnerty. You can see it above.

This year's Festival runs from June 21-27. For more information, see the website here, This year's selection can be found below.

Short Films Official

Adgwa-Ata

France, Hungary

Balconada

Балконада

France, Bulgaria

Black Box

France, Norway

Blessed

Canada

Cartoon Physics

France, Netherlands, Switzerland

Cosmonauts

Slovenia, Italy

Creation

Alkotás

Hungary

Danse macabre

Netherlands, France, Belgium, Hungary

Daughters of the Late Colonel

United Kingdom, Germany

God is shy

Dieu est timide

France

Hag

United Kingdom

How to Walk

USA

Invisible Harvests

Canada

Lake Messejana

Lagoa do Abandono

Brazil

Motherhood

Belgium, France, Romania

My Bellyaching Skin

Les Pelures d'estomac

France

Night Song

Canción de noche

Mexico

Paper Trail

USA

Penguin

Pingviin

Estonia, France

Please

Finland, France, Norway, Sweden, Czech Republic

The Berry Picker

De Bramenplukker

Belgium

The Little White Queen

La Petite Reine blanche

Belgium, France

The Picture of Dorian Gray

Switzerland

The Quinta’s Ghost

El fantasma de la Quinta

Spain

The Spring Sea

Haru no Umi

Japan

To the Woods

Une fugue

France

Two Ice Creams Please

Belgium

Uka-uka

Estonia

Ultra Strong

Ultra forte

Canada

Virgem Fandango

Virgin Fandango

Canada, Portugal

Water Girl

Fille de l’eau

France, Netherlands, Portugal

What We Leave Behind

Ce qu'on laisse derrière

Canada

When the Sea Was Calm

Georgia

Winter in March

Lumi saadab meid

Armenia, Belgium, Estonia, France

Young Audience

A Dog's Life

Hondenleven

Netherlands

Aller & Retour

Italy

Bats & Bugs

Switzerland

Cloud Fish

Poisson nuage

France, Belgium

Cosmonaut

Cosmonaute

Switzerland

Eeny, Meeny, Miny, Moe!

En, ten, týky!

Slovakia, Czech Republic

Grounded

New Zealand

Into the Forest

Vers la forêt

Switzerland

On the matt outside my door

Vor meiner Tür auf einer Matte

Germany

Piccolo Piccolo

France, Switzerland

Off Limits

Adage

United Kingdom

Core Dump

Germany

Evacuations

USA

From Apple to Egg

Ab mala usque ab ovo

Estonia

Merrimundi

Chile

Symbionts

Switzerland

The Stars Watch from Long Ago

USA

XYZ

Portugal

Perspectives

Acid City

USA

Because Today Is Saturday

Porque hoje é sábado

Portugal, France, Spain

Bucketman

Japan

Chance

Iran

City of Roses

Cidade das rosas

Brazil

Decay

Decaer

Colombia

Entelechy

Entelequia

Chile

Hold It Together

Sundruð

Iceland, France, Belgium

Misophonia

Malta

Once in a Body

Una vez en un cuerpo

Colombia, USA

Paper Daughter

USA

Rest

Japan

That Night

Iran, USA

The Boa Woman

La mujer boa

Peru

The Comet

La Comète

Canada

The Travails of Ajadi

Nigeria

Three pariah cats

Tres gatos parias

Colombia

Midnight Shorts

A Couple Clucking Chickens Were Still Kickin' in the Schoolyard

庭には二羽ニワトリがいた。

Japan

A Trip to the Ear

귀(耳)로의 여행

South Korea

Best in Show

Sweden

Builder

Japan

CALM, the Last Tale of Horacio Quiroga

CALM, el último cuento de Horacio Quiroga

Spain, Argentina, Mexico

Carla and her legs

Carla und ihre Beine

Germany

Dawn at Terezinha Building

Madrugada no Edifício Terezinha

Brazil

Dinner

South Korea

Eclosión

Dominican Republic, Spain

Grey

USA

Hunger

Hambre

Spain

My Name Is Lilith

Mon nom est Lilith

Belgium, France

Praying Mantis

螳螂

Hong Kong, Taiwan

Tenebras

Dominican Republic

The Flesh Dress

La Robe peau

France

Wolpie of the Woods

USA

WTF

Babyface

United Kingdom

Broc!

Hong Kong

I Have a

United Kingdom

I'm Glad I know That Now Thank You: Phones

United Kingdom

I’d Rather Be a Concorde

Belgium, Finland, Portugal

King Kong vs Pinocchio

Canada

Pigeon Businessman

USA

Six Finger Satellite "Simian Fever"

USA

Skin Flick

France

Smokedog

Australia

We're Kinda Different

Canada

What Is, Is Now

Wad Is, Is Nu

Netherlands

You Are Not Part of the Cake

Taiwan, United Kingdom

courtship.com

United Kingdom

Graduation Films

A Bloody Situation

United Kingdom

A Body without a Horse?

Belgium, Brazil, Finland, Portugal

Agathe Must Go

Agathe doit partir

France

Awaken Night

Une nuit debout

Canada

Aïcha Kandicha

France

Ball Face

United Kingdom

Bonefuzz

Hungary

Cold Bathroom

Belgium, Switzerland

Dying Embers

Les Dernières Braises

France

Eyeliner

United Kingdom

False Door

Ślepe Wrota

Poland

Fingerbang

South Korea

Fisheye

Poland

Foreign Bodies

United Kingdom

Free Food Race

France

From Narva with Love

Estonia

Gauze

France

Gently

Křehce

Czech Republic

I Am Li Yangqiao

我叫李杨桥

China

Immature

Netherlands, Taiwan

Insecticide

Insecticida

Spain

Jincheng Driving School

Jin Cheng Jia Xiao

China

L'Œuf noir

France

Mauruuru Roa

France

Mis-Angel

United Kingdom

Mom

Belgium

Nursing Room

Mu Ying Shi

China

Oldies of the Coast

Australia

Plankton α

プランクトン α

Japan

Queens of the Pampa

Reinas de la pampa

Chile

Slap

ビンタ

Japan

So He Grabbed the Knife

そしてナイフを手にした

Japan, China

Taming Phenomena

Estonia

Tar

Iran

Tethered

United Kingdom

The 12 Inch Pianist

USA

The Amazing Kitsuverse

Germany

The Day I Licked a Pebble

Le jour où j'ai léché un caillou

France

The Mirage of a Dream

Mareechika

India

The Mother's Voice

Da Mor Ghag

Pakistan

The Rossini Garden

Le Jardin Rossini

France

The Sea Spirit

Havsanden

Sweden

The Sound of the Jaguar

El canto del jaguar

Mexico

TV Films

Blooming Wonders

Patouille et Momo "Le Bananier"

France

Candy Caries

Japan

Chip Joins a Cult

USA

Christmas in the Boonies

Peetrikese jõulurobot

Estonia

Dino Does It Wrong?

Canada, Colombia, Egypt

Doggie and Pussycat

O pejskovi a kočičce

Czech Republic

Ewilan's Quest "On the Road"

La Quête d'Ewilan "Sur la route"

France, Belgium

Il baracchino

Italy

Jaadugar: A Witch in Mongolia

天幕のジャードゥーガル

Japan

Ling Cage – Season 2

《灵笼》第二季

China

Long Story Short "Shira Can’t Cook"

USA

Love, Death + Robots "How Zeke Got Religion"

USA

Max and Bunny

Max et Lapin

France

My Brother the Minotaur "Episode 10"

Ireland, USA

Not a Box "It's a Boat"

United Kingdom, USA

Pol the Pirate Mouse "Cave Monster"

Pol de Piratenmuis "Grotmonster"

Netherlands

Puissances noires

France

Song of the Storms

Le Chant des orages

France, Belgium

Sparks of Tomorrow "Episode 1"

二十世紀電氣目録-ユーレカ・エヴリカ-

Japan

SpongeBob SquarePants "Go Fetch!"

USA

Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord "Chapter 9: Strange Allies"

USA

Takopi’s Original Sin

Japan

The Broos

Les Groos

France

The Chosen One

谷围南亭

China

The Doomies "Night of the Fishing Dead"

France

The Great Dreamscape

La Grande Rêvasion

Belgium, France

Woolly Woolly "The New Kid"

France, Canada

Wuthering Hearts

United Kingdom, USA

YaYa's Band

芽芽樂團

Taiwan

Commissioned Films

A$AP Rocky "Helicopter"

USA

Anima Festival Trailer 2025

Germany

Arrigo Barnabé "Clara Crocodilo", 1980

Brazil

Christmas Legend

La Légende des Fêtes

Canada

Cœur Vert Nez Rouge

France

Design and Animation School (DAS)

Georgia

Detention's Ripple Effect: Why Inhumanity Breeds Hatred

Egypt

Devil May Cry "Opening Credits"

France

Eco Beat

Austria, Germany

El Cuarteto de Nos "En el cuarto de Nico"

Argentina

Equity in the Workplace: The Experiences of Black Irish Women in Academia and Teaching Profession

Dominica, Ireland, Venezuela

Flea feat. Thom Yorke "Traffic Lights"

Mexico, Italy, USA

Friss Kakas Animation Film Days Spot

Friss Kakas Animációs Filmnapok Spot

Hungary

Future Islands "The Moon Is Blue"

France

Here's to 100 Years of Circuit Breakers

France, Germany, Italy, Spain, United Kingdom

How Smart Are Crows

Greece, USA

La Petite Robe noire : le Parfum

France

La Ride Partie 2

France

Little Nightmares "Broken Promises"

France, Mexico

Oberka "Wildbait"

Czech Republic

Odezenne "Aïe aïe aïe"

France

Paul Kalkbrenner "Cronitis Boy"

Germany

Pune Design Festival 2026

India

Reply 2 H8

USA

Ricoré

France

Siamés "The Phoenix"

France

Snoop Dogg feat. Jelly Roll "Last Dance with Mary Jane"

USA, France

Spot MONSTRA 2025

Portugal

Teleton Changes Everything

Teletón cambia todo

Mexico

The Magic Palm Theatre – Feinaki Beijing Animation Week 2025

指缝的魔法剧场 – 费那奇动画周宣传片

China

The Notebook

Daftar yaddasht

Iran

Unloved

Mal aimé

France

WTF?! – 16th Anibar International Animation Festival Trailer

Finland, Kosovo

Wonder Studios Ident

United Kingdom

You Are an Idiot

Sweden, United Kingdom

Lesbian Space Princess Comes To The UK and Ireland This May

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Perkins) — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 11:43:00 +0000

Bluey aside, we don't see that much animation come out of Australia. Animated features are even rarer. But one Aussie animated movie recently found success on the festival circuit. That movie is Lesbian Space Princess, and Pecadillo Pictures have announced that it's coming to UK and Irish cinema screens from May 22.

The film received its world premiere at last year's Berlin Film Festival, where it went on to win the Teddy award. It also won the Audience Award for Best Australian Feature at the Sydney Film Festival.

The sci-fi comedy is written and directed by Leela Varghese and Emma Hough Hobbs. Described as "a riotous, candy-coloured joy from start to finish", Lesbian Space Princess is an animation made by emerging talents and which embraces LGBTQIA+ and culturally diverse voices both on and off-screen.

Lesbian Space Princess features the voices of Shabana Azeez, Bernie Van Tiel , Gemma Chua Tran , Aunty Donna, Richard Roxburgh, Jordan Raskopolous, Madeleine Sami and Kween Kong .

The official synopsis reads:

Daughter to the flamboyant lesbian Queens of Planet Clitopolis, introverted Princess Saira is devastated when her bounty-hunter girlfriend, Kiki, suddenly breaks up with her for being too needy.
After Kiki is kidnapped by forgotten incels of the future, the Straight White Maliens, Saira must leave the comforts of gay space to deliver their ransom: her royal labrys (the most powerful weapon known to lesbian kind). Only problem is… she doesn’t have it!
With just a 24-hour window to get her labrys and save Kiki, Princess Saira finds herself on an inter-gay-lactic journey of self-discovery that includes encounters with a problematic spaceship and a new-found friendship with gay-pop runaway Willow.

The writer-directors describe the film as "an ode to low-budget anime, a hilarious love letter to lesbians and most importantly - heaps of fun." They cite their influences as "cartoons like Adventure Time" but say the editing and coverage more closely resemble anime hits like Revolutionary Girl Utena. They describe it as campy and comedic, but with an undercurrent of cheeky and incisive political commentary. The film centers complex queer women of colour characters and brings genuineness with authentic casting.

The directing duo bring their respective backgrounds in animation/production design and musical comedy to give them a strong foundation for achieveing their ambitions of compelling visuals and strong comedic performances. They say "We will create a film that brings an authentic new voice that women, the queer community and people of colour deserve."

Lesbian Space Princess was released in cinemas in the US last October, and on digital shortly after.

Check out the trailer, below.

Crunchyroll Announces Spring Anime

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Perkins) — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 14:00:00 +0000

It's that time again. Anime streaming giant Crunchyroll has announced their line-up of new and returning shows that will air as part of the upcoming Spring Season. New series include Daemons of the Shadow Realm, Witch Hat Atelier, The Drops of God and LIAR Game.

Returning shows include new seasons of That Time I Got Reincarnated As A Slime, Doroheroro, Dr Stone: Science Future, Re:ZERO -Starting Life in Another World and Rent-a-Girlfriend. Continuing from the previous season are Digimon Beatbreak, Scum Of The Brave and Star Detective Precure.

Full information on the line-up can be found below. More series to be added at a later date.

MARCH 28

Agents of the Four Seasons: Dance of Spring (WIT Studio)

Winter was once the only season in the world-but such an existence was too lonely to bear, and so it created Spring to love. Before long, the earth wished for more time to rest in the cycle, and Summer and Autumn were born. The ones who carry the cycle are called the Agents of the Four Seasons. Hinagiku, the Agent of Spring, disappeared from this land ten years ago, taking the season of spring with her. Now, after incredible hardship, she has returned to restore the cycle to its proper state-and, as in the myth passed down since the dawn of time, she sends her love to Winter.

MARCH 31

The Food Diary of Miss Maid (EMT Squared and Magic Bus)

What’s a maid to do when she finds herself suddenly stuck in Japan for a year? Eat, of course! Follow maid-in-training Suzume Tachibana as she tries all sorts of Japanese food, from sweets like taiyaki and melon bread to savory snacks like takoyaki and onigiri! Be warned, though-while Suzume sates her appetite through delicious treat after delicious treat, she might just end up whetting yours!

The strongest job is apparently not a hero or a sage, but an appraiser (provisional)! (Studio Flad)

Hibiki, a high school student who was suddenly transferred to another world, wanders alone in a vast grassland of a fantasy world where monsters inhabit. All he has are non-combat skills such as "Appraisal"! From a hopeless situation, he is saved by encounters, and his all-powerful abilities blossom! An another world adventure tale of miraculous reversal cheats burst forth!

APRIL 1

Dorohedoro Season 2 (MAPPA)

In the lawless district known as Hole, sorcerers from another world use its residents as guinea pigs for their twisted magic. Caiman is one of those victims—left with a lizard head and no memory of his past, he’s now on a brutal quest for answers. To reclaim his true face and forgotten past, he and his partner Nikaido hunt sorcerers, hoping to uncover the truth behind his transformation. *Season 1 is also now available to stream on Crunchyroll.

Go For It, Nakamura-kun!! (Drive)

Love at first sight is no myth—just ask Okuto Nakamura. Whenever his dreamy classmate Aiki Hirose enters the room, his heart skips a beat, despite the fact that they’ve never actually spoken. Not to mention, Nakamura is a complete klutz with zero friends. Will he ever break out of the friendzone?

The Beginning After the End Season 2 (A-CAT)

Arthur, now an adventurer, completes quest after quest alongside Jasmine, honing his swordsmanship and mana. One day, Brald, an AA-ranked adventurer, invites them to participate in a certain quest. Though Arthur and his companions wonder why they were chosen, Arthur decides to accept it as his final quest before entering the Academy. However, an unimaginable tragedy awaits them.

Reborn as a Vending Machine, I Now Wander the Dungeon Season 3 (Studio Gokumi and AxsiZ)

The future of this fantasy world now lies in the hands of…a vending machine! Boxxo was once a human, until he died in an accident and was reincarnated as a sentient piece of machinery. While he can still hear and see, there’s no way for him to move by himself or speak more than his programmed phrases. How can he make the most of this strange new life?

Classroom of the Elite 4th Season: Second Year, First Semester (Lerche)

Metropolitan Advanced Nurturing High School promises a perfect future, but only the strongest can claim it. After a crushing defeat sends Ayanokoji’s class back to Class D, they start their second year at the bottom yet again. As bonds deepen and loyalties shift, a new exam pairs them with incoming students—one of whom is a White Room assassin. A new semester of deception and strategy begins!

APRIL 2

Dr. STONE SCIENCE FUTURE Cour 3 (TMS Entertainment)

After the battle on Treasure Island, Senku and the gang return to the Kingdom of Science. With their sights set on the Moon, they must first voyage to the Americas in hopes of beginning to harvest the required materials. Through teamwork and science, they continue the fight to save humanity once and for all!

APRIL 3

That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 4 (8bit)

Demon Lord Rimuru's dream of creating an alliance between humans and monsters takes a step closer to being realized. As Tempest continues to prosper, Granville Rozzo and his granddaughter, Maribel Rozzo, clash with Demon Lord Rimuru over their plan to protect mankind by ruling over them. Meanwhile, in El Dorado, Demon Lord Leon works toward goals of his own. The awakening of a new Hero draws near!

SNOWBALL EARTH (Studio KAI)

Yukio was destroyed in battle and Tetsuo survived in an escape pod. After eight years in cold sleep, the escape pod finally lands back on Earth. But when Tetsuo emerges he finds a world in ruins, entirely frozen beneath a blanket of ice and snow—snowball Earth! What happened to humanity, how did the planet freeze over, and will Tetsuo be able to keep his last promise to Yukio?

The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten2 (project No.9)

To thank him for his kind gesture, Mahiru cooks and cleans for her untidy neighbor Amane. But what was just a generous show of gratitude turns into more as they grow closer. This is the story of a sweet romance between a boy and the girl next door.

APRIL 4

Daemons of the Shadow Realm (bones film)

In a world where certain humans command mighty supernatural duos called Daemons, it is the birthright of "the children who sunder day and night"—twins Yuru and Asa—to rule over these powerful entities. Separated from a young age and unaware of the truth of their birth, brother and sister must fight to make their way back to each other, claim their birthright, and save the world…

NEEDY GIRL OVERDOSE (Yostar Pictures)

In a world where likes are currency and every viewer is a judge, OMGkawaiiAngel—also known as KAngel—is determined to become the ultimate “Internet Angel.” Yet beneath her pastel smile and lively streams, there’s more than meets the eye.

Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun Season 4 (Bandai Namco Pictures)

Suzuki Iruma faces a new challenge with the Music Festival. Bonds of friendship are put to the test when the students are told to get all thirteen members of the Misfit Class to Rank 4. This impossible goal can only be achieved by winning the Music Festival. Upon learning that one of the students is a demon who is not allowed to stand out, they wonder how they can all perform on that stage?!

Ascendance of a Bookworm: Adopted Daughter of an Archduke (WIT Studio)

In a world ruled by magical nobles, Myne dreams of creating books where none exist. When her immense power draws deadly attention, she assumes a new identity as Rozemyne, leaving her family and past behind. In a society driven by ambition, secrets, and schemes, she must outwit conspirators, protect those she loves, and fight to bring books and hope to a world that has long forgotten both.

Kusunoki's Garden of Gods (JUVENAGE)

Deep in the countryside, Minato Kusunoki is left in charge of a terrifying house overflowing with evil spirits—or at least it was, until his extraordinary ability cleared them all out! Instead, a procession of unique and peculiar gods is drawn to the comfort of the purified Kusunoki residence, and Minato spends his days relaxing in the company of his spiritual neighbors. What else lies in store for Minato as he lives peacefully surrounded by gods?

Mistress Kanan Is Devilishly Easy (Studio KAI)

Kanan, the beautiful and alluring "Gourmet Devil", descends upon a high school in the human world to devour young, sweet souls, and her first sacrifice is Yoji Kugi. However, she and Kugi end up making a romantic contract?! For the innocent Kanan, who has lived for thousands of years without experiencing first love, every day is filled with excitement! Going home together?! Holding hands?! Going on dates?! A first time XX?!?!?!?! A first-love rom-com about a cute and simple-minded devil begins♪

APRIL 5

GHOST CONCERT : missing Songs (ENGI)

In 2045, when singing is forbidden, a high school girl hears the ghostly voice that possesses her and grants great power.

Witch Hat Atelier (BUG FILMS) *Double Premiere of Episodes 1 and 2

In a world where only witches can cast magic, they must avoid being seen by ordinary people while casting. While Coco does her chores, she daydreams of becoming a witch. When a young witch named Qifrey visits her village, Coco uncovers the “absolute secret,” becomes Qifrey’s apprentice, and begins her studies. This is the story of children who encounter despair, yet reach out toward hope.

LIAR GAME (MADHOUSE)

When Nao Kanzaki receives a strange letter and a suitcase containing 100 million yen, she learns that she has been selected to participate in the LIAR GAME. In this high-stakes psychological battle, lies, deception, and betrayal reign supreme. Naïve and honest, Nao turns to Shinichi Akiyama, a brilliant former con artist, to survive the twisted game. In a game built on lies, can honesty prevail?

An Observation Log of My Fiancée Who Calls Herself a Villainess (Ashi Production)

Bertia is reincarnated into her favorite otome game—not as the heroine, but as the villainess engaged to the perfect Crown Prince Cecil! Fully aware that her role is to sabotage his future romance, she’s determined to bloom as a wicked flower and wither away according to the story. But no matter how hard she tries to scheme, her “evil” plans only make her more endearing!

The Klutzy Class Monitor and the Girl with the Short Skirt (Zero-G)

Every morning, Sakuradaimon-kun enforces the rules at the school gate, stopping Poem-chan for her too-short skirt. But when they’re thrown together in remedial class, she discovers his secret—the serious, uptight Sakuradaimon-kun is hopeless at studying! As they clash, bicker, and stumble through school life together, the two opposites slowly draw closer and form an unexpected friendship.

APRIL 7

MARRIAGETOXIN (bones film)

For centuries, the deadly arts have been perfected by Masters, and Five Great Families hold the greatest power and influence. Hikaru Gero, an heir to the Gero family, lives in the underworld as an elite assassin. When his sister is pressured to produce an heir, Hikaru asks Mei Kinosaki, a brilliant marriage swindler, to find him a bride. The most challenging mission of his life begins!

Eren the Southpaw (Signal.MD and Production I.G)

As high school reaches its midpoint, Koichi Asakura—who dreams of studying design at art school—has his plans shaken by explosive graffiti on a museum wall. The artist is Eren Yamagishi, a left-handed girl who buried her talent after a past incident. Drawn together by art, Koichi pursues design as Eren returns to painting, but fear, ambition, and old scars threaten their paths.

Even a Replica Can Fall in Love (Voil)

When she doesn’t feel well, when there’s a test, when she doesn’t want to go to school... I take her place. I’m her replica. I’m not meant for anything else. But that changed when I fell in love. I wear my hair up so the boy I fell for knows it’s me. We skip school and promise to meet again tomorrow, and every day after. I’m her replica. Everything about me is borrowed and empty, but my heart is mine.

I Made Friends with the Second Prettiest Girl in My Class (CONNECT)

Maki Maehara, the class outcast, finally makes his first friend: Umi Asanagi, the second-prettiest girl in class and the center of everyone’s attention. He’s convinced she’s out of his league, but as their unlikely friendship grows, Maki starts to wonder…could there be more than just friendship between them?

APRIL 8

Re:ZERO -Starting Life in Another World- Season 4 (WHITE FOX)

Natsuki Subaru, an ordinary high school student, is on his way home from the convenience store when he finds himself transported to another world. As he's lost and confused in a new world where he doesn't even know left from right, the only person to reach out to him was a beautiful girl with silver hair. Determined to repay her somehow for saving him from his own despair, Subaru agrees to help…

Rent-a-Girlfriend Season 5 (TMS Entertainment)

Kinoshita Kazuya is a 20-year-old failure of a college student. He managed to kiss his girlfriend once, but was dumped after a month. Completely spiteful, Kazuya uses a certain method to date a girl. He goes to their meeting place and suddenly hears, "You're Kazuya-kun, right?" A beautiful girl brushing her long, black hair behind her ear was there, smiling at him. Her name was Mizuhara Chizuru. Something real is born after just a single rental! A reckless rom-com filled with love and excitement is about to begin!

Gals Can't Be Kind to Otaku!? (TMS Entertainment)

Takuya Seo is a quiet otaku who keeps a low profile at school—until two gals from his class start talking to him. The cool but scatterbrained Kei Amane and the cheerful, energetic Kotoko Ijichi couldn’t be more different, but the three soon bond over anime, games, and shared fandom. But one question remains: do nice gals who hang out with otaku really exist?!

APRIL 9

A Hundred Scenes of AWAJIMA (MADHOUSE)

Awajima Revue School, where countless girls from across the country flock in hopes of one day performing on the grand stage. While working toward achieving their dreams of stardom, the students find their time at Awajima is filled with as much friendship and admiration as competition and jealousy. The precious feelings of girls—classmates and rivals at the same time—are tenderly captured in the portraits of this ensemble cast!

Kujima: Why Sing, When You Can Warble? (Studio Hibari)

In the fall of his first year of middle school, Arata Kouda meets Kujima, a strange, talkative creature that’s neither bird nor human. What begins as a small act of kindness turns into an unexpected stay at the Kouda household. Meant to be only until spring, Kujima’s clumsy warmth, soft cries, and gentle mystery quietly become part of the family’s days, weaving tender, fleeting bonds.

The Warrior Princess and the Barbaric King (Jumondou)

Serafina, the West’s fiercest knight, expected torture when captured by barbarians. Instead, she got a marriage proposal! Marrying her sworn enemy is a hard no! But after seeing her wedding captor’s culture and very pretty face, she may be tempted to swap her sword for a wedding veil. Get ready for the ultimate enemies-to-maybe-lovers arc.

APRIL 10

The Drops of God (Satelight)

When world-renowned wine critic Toyotaka Kanzaki passes away, he leaves behind an enviable collection. The will promises his estate to whoever correctly guesses the brand and year of the 12 greatest wines he selected, and the legendary wine that stands atop them all, "Drops of God." The challengers are Toyotaka's son, Shizuku Kanzaki, and a young critic, Issei Tomine, who was adopted by Toyotaka.

Botan Kamiina Fully Blossoms When Drunk (Soigne)

The story of the series follows Botan Kamiina, a first year university student who tries drinking for the first time when she meets her dorm supervisor, third year student Ibuki Tonami, who enjoys alcohol but doesn't like to drink in public. The two become friends and sample different drinks while living in Chichibu.

APRIL 12

Wistoria: Wand and Sword Season 2 (Actas and Bandai Namco Pictures)

In a world where magic reigns, Will Serfort can’t cast a spell. Though hardworking, Will’s classmates think less of him for it. However, he has a secret strength: his sword. Can Will defy expectations with muscle over magic and blade over wand? Find out in this epic sword-and-sorcery adventure!

APRIL 14

I Want to End This Love Game (FelixFilm)

Childhood friends Yukiya and Miku share everything…except their feelings. Ever since sixth grade, they’ve played a “love game”: they take turns saying “I love you” and whoever gets flustered first loses. Now in high school, their hearts are closer than ever—but will they finally find the courage to confess?

SERIES CONTINUING FROM WINTER 2026

Digimon Beatbreak (Toei Animation) – New episodes on Saturdays
Scum of the Brave (OLM) – New episodes on Saturdays
Star Detective Precure! (Toei Animation) – New episodes on Saturdays

Cardiff Animation Festival Industry Day Returns

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Perkins) — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 12:33:00 +0000

We're about a month away from this year's Cardiff Animation Festival. For four days, the Welsh capital will become a hotbed of animation in all its forms. And now the festival has confirmed that Industry Day will return on Thursday, April 23 at Chapter. Hosted by director and presenter Hannah Lau‑Walker, the day is intended to bring together studio leaders, freelancers, funders, commissioners, students, graduates and emerging talent for a programme filled with insight, inspiration and future-facing conversation.

This year's programme is themed around Play, exploring the ideas, issues and innovations shaping animation today. Spanning from digital-first content strategies to feature film development to stepping into game development and navigating freelance life.

“CAF’s Industry Day is our chance to come together as a sector, share knowledge, and tackle the most current challenges facing animation," said Festival Director Lauren Orme."We’ve designed the day to be accessible, affordable, and to highlight opportunities – a space where people at every stage of their careers can learn, connect and feel inspired about the future of our industry.”

The day kicks off with a playful keynote from bestselling author, animator, illustrator and crafter Phillipa Rice, who will share her thoughts on creative risk-taking, curiosity and keeping play at the heart of your work.

BAFTA-winning filmmaker Will Anderson and Camilla Deakin, MD and producer at Lupus Films ask the question "What does it really take to develop an animated feature in today’s UK industry?"With more studios exploring long-form storytelling, their candid case studies will unpack the journey from idea to screen, from development funding and pitching to markets, co‑productions and the realities of getting a feature off the ground.

Global Distribution Consultant Laura Taylor-Williams will moderate a panel on reaching audiences through digital platforms, exploring varied models, funding pathways, creator strategies and the different approaches people are taking in this varied landscape.

Cardiff-based Copa Games founder and director Osian Williams will share how a boutique Welsh studio can become a competitor on the world stage, and how local culture can be a key differentiator on the global market.

Cloth Cat's Jon Rennie offers a behind-the-scenes look at The Ghost Of Midwinter. This will include its MOHO pipeline, innovative funding approach, bilingual production in both English and Welsh, and the training module that allowed emerging animators to gain their first broadcast credit.

A practical Freelance Toolkit session, featuring CULT Cymru, will support animation professionals entering the industry and navigating shifting market conditions. A Meet The Commissioners panel will give attendees an opportunity to hear what commissioning opportunities are out there, what broadcasters are looking for right now, and what makes an idea stand out.

In addition to the talks, attendees can take advantage of 1:1 meetings, portfolio reviews, coffee breaks and a relaxed networking lunch. There will be plenty of opportunities to connect and collaborate. An Industry Day Pass gains you access to all talks and panels, bookable 1:1 meetings, hot drinks and lunch.

The ninth Cardiff Animation Festival runs from Thursday, April 23- Sunday April 26. For more information on this year's festival, see our post here.

Out This Week: The Glassworker, Scott Pilgrim Takes Off, Mars and More

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Perkins) — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 12:49:00 +0000

Welcome back to Out This Week, our weekly new release round-up. New titles this week include the previously Netflix-exclusive Science Saru series Scott Pilgrim Takes Off, the general release of The Whitest Kids U Know's Mars, as well as the latest volume of RWBY, and Studio Ghibli inspired Pakistani feature The Glassworker.

All information correct to the best of our knowledge and is subject to change.

UK Releases For March 23, 2026

Kamisama Kiss Seasons 1 & 2 (MVM Entertainment, 12) "All 25 episodes of the Japanese anime based on the manga by Julietta Suzuki. Nanami Momozono was just a normal teenage girl down on her luck until a stranger's lips marked her as the new Land God and turned her world upside down. Now, she's figuring out the duties of a deity with the help of Tomoe, a reformed fox demon who reluctantly becomes her familiar in a contract sealed with a kiss. The new responsibilities - and boys - are a lot to handle, like the crow demon masquerading as a gorgeous pop idol and the adorable snake spirit who's chosen the newly minted god to be his bride. As the headstrong Tomoe tries to whip her into shape, Nanami finds that love just might have cute, pointed fox ears. With romance in the air, will the human deity prove herself worthy of her new title?"

FORMATS: Blu-Ray

Buy From Amazon

US Releases For March 24, 2026

The Glassworker (IFC Films, NR) "In a picturesque seaside town rich in sand and tradition, Vincent, an apprentice glassblower, works alongside his pacifist father Tomas at their renowned workshop. Their serene world destabilises when war looms, and a strict army colonel and his violinist daughter Alliz arrive. As Vincent and Alliz forge a deep bond, conflicting family allegiances and patriotism test their love, forcing them to confront the brutality of war and the power of art."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray

Buy From Amazon

Himouto! Umaru-Chan (Sentai Filmworks, TV-14) "To her classmates, Umaru Doma appears to be the perfect girl. She’s beautiful, friendly, and fashionable, earns top grades, and seems to be able to do any task asked of her with ease. She’s even humble and polite! However, if Umaru’s classmates could see her in the privacy of her home, they wouldn’t even recognize her. Once she’s inside the door, the pretty clothes come off, the orange hamster hood goes on, and it’s time to pig-out on snack foods, binge-watch television, and play violent video games! This version of Umaru is everything that the public Umaru isn’t: she whines, rolls on the floor, leaves messes all over the apartment, and makes life miserable for her poor older brother, Taihei. Even the most guarded secrets have a way of being found out, and, as Umaru becomes even more obnoxious and outrageous, her two lives are bound to collide in disastrous fashion in Himouto! Umaru-chan!"

FORMATS: Blu-Ray

Buy From Amazon

Loner Life in Another World Collector's Edition (Sentai Filmworks, TV-14) "Haruka cares so little about his classmates that he’s never even learned their names. He just wants to finish school and move on. Instead, a strange God pulls Haruka’s entire class into another world, granting them superpowers and making them heroes. Wanting no part of this, Haruka ends up last, stuck with leftover powers no one else wanted. Which might suck, except that, being clever, he finds that he can combine them in unexpected ways. That’s… interesting. Not to mention extremely useful given that, whether he likes it or not, he’ll soon find himself repeatedly having to rescue his annoying classmates in Loner Life in Another World!"

FORMATS: Blu-Ray Steelbook

Buy From Amazon

Looney Tunes Collector's Vault Volume 2 (Warner Bros., NR) "The characters of Looney Tunes get themselves into crazy situations."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray

Buy From Amazon

RWBY Volume 9 (Viz Media, TV-14) "After harrowing events, our heroines are thrust into an unknown world–the Ever After! Once Team RWBY explores this mysterious realm, however, they quickly discover appearances are deceptive. As they journey home, a new struggle emerges: one of identity."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray

Buy From Amazon

Scott Pilgrim: Takes Off (Universal Pictures, NR) "A 20-something Toronto indie rocker's adventures in getting and keeping jobs, avoiding being kicked out of his apartment, and surviving encounters with the seven evil exes of the new girl in town on whom he has a crush."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray

Buy From Amazon

The Whitest Kids U Know's Mars (Whole Grain Pictures, R) "When he wins a sweepstakes, Kyle Capshaw gets a once-in-a-lifetime chance to join billionaire Elron Branson on a voyage to Mars, along with four other winners. Unfortunately, he entered in order to escape his miserable career, his violently insecure soon-to-be-bride, and a secret hobby that nobody would ever understand. But things go wrong almost immediately, and soon Kyle and his fellow amateur astronauts find themselves stranded, horny, and increasingly feral."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray

Buy From Amazon

Upcoming Releases

The Place Promised In Our Early Days March 23 [UK]

The Glassworker March 24

Loner Life In Another World March 24

Looney Tunes Collector's Vault Volume 2, March 24

RWBY Volume 9 March 24

Scott Pilgrim Takes Off March 24

The Whitest Kids U Know's Mars March 24

Macross Plus: The Movie March 30 [UK]

Solo Leveling Season 2 March 30 [UK]

Spy X Family The Movie: Code White March 30 [UK]

Lupin III: Specials Collection March 31

Lpin III vs Cat's Eye March 31

Scooby's All-Star Laff-a-lympics March 31

The Spongebob Movie: Search For SquarePants March 31

Voltes V: The Complete Series March 31

Fate/Grand Carnival April 6 [UK]

Scott Pilgrim Takes Off April 6 [UK]

The Dagger Of Kamui April 7

Farming Life In Another World April 7

One Piece : Season 14 voyage 9 April 7

Over The Garden Wall April 7

Colorful Stage: The Movie April 14

Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Freedom 4k April 14

Ushio and Tora: Complete Series April 14

Looney Tunes: The Day The Earth Blew Up April 20 [UK]

Famous Studios Champion Collection April 21

Hair High (Bill Plympton) April 21

Shangri-La Frontier Season 2 April 21

Tada Never Falls In Love April 21

Yandere Dark Elf: She Chased Me All the Way From Another World! April 28

Bloom Into You May 5

The Legend Of Hei 2 May 12

The Apothecary Diaries Season 1 May 19

Arco May 19

Scarlet May 19

Fleischer Cartoons: Greatest Hits, Volume 1 May 26

Masters Of The Universe: Revelation and Revolution June 2

Nana: Complete Collection June 2

Alien Nine June 9

Hotori: Simply Wishing For Hope June 9

Heavy Metal L-Gaim June 16

Rock Is A Lady's Modesty June 16

Yandere Dark Elf June 16

Chivalry Of A Failed Knight June 23

I Left My A-Rank Party to Help My Former Students Reach the Dungeon Depths! June 23

Doctor Stone: Season Four: Part One June 30

Primal: Season 3 June 30

Icon Creative Studio to Adapt Isabel Allende’s ‘Dos Palabras’

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Perkins) — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 12:03:00 +0000

Icon Creative Studio, Canada's largest independently owned CG animation studio, has announced that it will produce, in partnership with L.A. based Animation creative executive Pilar Flynn and writer Rafael Agustín, an animated short film adaptation of the acclaimed story Dos Palabras from Isabel Allende. This marks the first time that the Chilean novelist has granted screen rights to any of her work. Dos Palabras is the most requested of all her short stories. Allende is one of the most widely read Spanish-language authors in the world, and serves as an executive producer on the short.

The story follows Belisa Crepusculario, a woman who sells words so potent they even influence a powerful man's quest for the presidency. Steeped in mystery and magical realism, the tale explores a timeless choice that confronts us all - whether to use words to inspire connection…or to unravel it.

“I am thrilled to soon see one of my oldest short stories adapted by an incredible team. It’s a story about the power of words, and I can’t wait to see it brought to life” said Isabel Allende.

Pilar Flynn, two-time Emmy nominee and Peabody nominee for Marvel's Moon Girl and Devil Dinosuar, will direct and serve as executive producer and co-writer.

"Being a native of Chile and Ecuador with over two decades of experience in the animation industry, directing and writing this film is a dream realised. I am excited for the opportunity to weave my heritage and artistic expression together to bring Isabel’s vivid magical realism to life,” said Flynn.

Co-writing and executive producing is Rafael Agustín, a writer on the award winning Jane The Virgin and author of the bestselling Illegally Yours.

“I’m thrilled that Isabel has entrusted Pilar and me with this story" Agustin added."In keeping with her unwavering celebration of women around the world through her writing and philanthropy, it’s fitting to see Isabel join us on this animated project to uplift Pilar’s directorial debut. We’re sincerely honoured and excited to introduce her work to a new generation of audiences.”

Rafael Chaidez, two-time Emmy and Annie Award-winning veteran of the Kung Fu Panda series, Puss In Boots and Marvel's Moon Girls and Devil Dinosaur, will serve as producer.

Shea Wageman, CEO and president of Icon Creative Studio and Vice President Carson Loveday will serve as Executives and Producers. Additionally, Damián Perea, founder of Animayo Film Festival, will serve as an Executive Producer.

"We are honoured to be invited to work with Writer-Director Pilar Flynn, Writer-Producer Rafael Agustin, and Producer Rafael Chaidez to bring Isabel Allende's extraordinary tale to the screen for the first time," said Wageman. "This story carries profound relevance for our times. It's about the transformative power of words, the triumph of the human spirit, and choosing inspiration. With our world-class team of artists and this exceptional creative leadership, we're creating something truly special that honours both the story's Latin American roots and its universal themes."

Flynn added, “I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with Shea and Carson and their remarkably talented, high-calibre team on previous projects. I’m thrilled to come together again for a project of such meaning.”

Pilar Flynn Courtesy of Pilar Flynn

Rafael Agustin, courtesy of Rafael Agustin

Isabel Allende, courtesy of Lori Barra.

'Firefly' Animated Series In Development

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Perkins) — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 14:13:00 +0000

Reviving old TV shows from the past has long been popular with producers. Recently, there has been a surge in revivals of series from the 90's and early noughties. Series such as Scrubs, King Of The Hill, Baywatch, Malcom In The Middle and Futurama. This week the surprising news broke that the proposed revival of the cult classic Buffy the Vampire Slayer has been cancelled by Hulu. But another beloved series from the same creator is going to get another shot- Firefly.

Fans have been calling for a Firefly revival ever since the show was first cancelled after only 11 episodes back in 2002. They got what they wanted in 2005 with the big screen spin-off Serenity. Unfortunately, the film was not commercially successful, although it was well received by fans, so that was as far as it went. Until now, when a continuation has been finally announced- this time in animated form.

The news was announced at AwesomeCon by original star Nathan Fillion, who led a cast reunion panel at the convention. The announcement was teased beforehand by social media posts on the profiles of the original cast. Fillion will return to voice his character, Malcolm Reynolds and will be joined by original cast members Alan Tudyk, Gina Torres, Jewel Staite, Morena Baccarin, Sean Maher, Adam Baldwin and Summer Glau.

The continuation is being developed through Fillion's production company Collision33 in association with 20th Televsion Animation. ShadowMachine is on board to provide the animation. Marc Guggenheim and Tara Butters have been tapped to serve as showrunners and a script has apparently been completed. Original creator Joss Whedon (who has subsequently himself been cancelled) is not involved with the new series, but has apparently given it his blessing.

The series follows roguish captain Reynolds and the crew of the Serenity and their adventures at the fringes of the law in war-torn outer space circa 2517. Generally described as a space western, the series developed a dedicated fan-base through box-sets and streaming. The animated series is set to take place between the original 2002 television run and the movie Serenity. It will expand the universe, while preserving continuity with established lore.

Producing an animated series allows the story to continue, while ignoring the 25 years that has passed since Firefly finished. It will also allow for some spectacular sci-fi visuals, where imagination is the only limitation.

The series has not yet found a home, and the producers will be looking for a streamer or broadcast partner before they can bring it to audiences. We would have thought that there will be quite a bit of interest in this, so it shouldn't be too hard to find one. With that said, Fillion has asked that if fans want to see this come to fruition, they should spread the word, and help provide some 'quantifiable analytics' that there is an audience out there for this series. So if you want to see it... let somebody know!

[source]

Out This Week: The Boy and The Beast, David, Ghost In The Shell SAC_2025 and More

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Perkins) — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 15:44:00 +0000

Welcome back, a little later than usual to another edition of Out This Week, our weekly new release round-up. As his latest film Scarlet hits cinema screens, Mamoru Hosoda's The Boy And The Beast makes its debut on shiny 4K UHD disc. Also new this week is break-out faith-based animated feature David, and the second season of smash-hit anime series Solo Leveling.

New in the UK this week is both seasons of the previously Netflix-exclusive Ghost In The Shell: SAC_2045, and action-packed anime series Lycoris Recoil.

All information correct to the best of our knowledge and is subject to change.

UK Releases For March 16, 2026

Ghost In The Shell SAC_2045 Season One (Anime Ltd., 15) "In the year 2045, after an economic disaster known as the Simultaneous Global Default which destroyed the value of all forms of paper and electronic currency, the "Big 4" nations of the world are engaged in a state of never-ending "Sustainable War" to keep the economy going. In this world, Mokoto, Batou and other members of Public Security Section 9 have contracted themselves out as mercenaries under the group "GHOST", using their cybernetic enhancements and battle experience to earn a living while defusing hot spots across the globe. However, the emergence of "Post Humans" and a conspiracy uncovered by former Chief Aramaki force Section 9 to reunite."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray

Buy From Amazon

Ghost In The Shell: SAC_2045 Season Two (Anime Ltd., 15) "As the Simultaneous Global Default plunges the world into a never-ending war orchestrated by AI, humanity remains unaware of the extent of the threat.Reactivated under the Prime Minister's secret orders, Section 9 hunts for Takashi Shimamura, a suspected post-human. During this mission, Togusa mysteriously disappears, prompting Motoko Kusanagi and her team to travel to a ruined Tokyo. There, they confront the N refugee group and an American intervention unit. As a hijacked nuclear submarine threatens to spark a global conflict, the clash between Section 9, American forces, and the post-humans"

FORMATS: Blu-Ray

Buy From Amazon

Lycoris Recoil Collector's Edition (MVM Entertainment, 15) "A secret organization that prevents crimes called “DA - Direct Attack”, and their group of all-girl agents known as “Lycoris” keep Japan peaceful and its citizens safe. The elite Chisato Nishikigi is the strongest Lycoris agent of all time. She works alongside the mysterious and talented new agent Takina Inoue at a DA branch called Café LycoReco. Here, the orders this café takes range from coffee and sweets to childcare, shopping, teaching Japanese to foreign students, etc. It's mostly tasks unbefitting of Lycoris. The free-spirited and optimistic pacifist, Chisato. And the cool-headed and efficient Takina. The chaotic everyday lives of this mismatched duo begin!"

FORMATS: Blu-Ray

Buy From Amazon

US Releases For March 17, 2026

The Boy And The Beast (GKIDS/Shout Factory, PG-13) "The latest feature film from award-winning Japanese director Mamoru Hosoda (Summer Wars, Wolf Children): When Kyūta, a young orphan living on the streets of Shibuya, stumbles into a fantastic world of beasts, he's taken in by Kumatetsu, a gruff, rough-around-the-edges warrior beast who's been searching for the perfect apprentice. Despite their constant bickering, Kyūta and Kumatetsu begin training together and slowly form a bond as surrogate father and son. But when a deep darkness threatens to throw the human and beast worlds into chaos, the strong bond between this unlikely family will be put to ultimate test: a final showdown that will only be won if the two can finally work together using all of their combined strength and courage."

FORMATS: 4K UHD, 4K Steelbook [Amazon Exclusive], Blu-Ray

Buy From Amazon

David (Angel, PG) "Beyond the giant's shadow, the shepherd boy embarks on a journey to show his people that true power lies not in kingship, but in faith and freedom."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray+DVD, DVD

Buy From Amazon

Food Wars: Shokugeki no Soma: The Third Plate (Sentai Filmworks, TV-14) " Soma Yukihira may have trained in a diner and driven into the Totsuki Fine Dining Academy as the darkest of dark horse candidates, but when it comes to competitive cooking, this is one young master who’ll never take a dive. His latest challenge: the Lunar Feast, where he’ll need every weapon in his culinary arsenal to take on one of the academy's top ranked chefs. Oh, and if that wasn’t enough heat in the kitchen, Soma and his allies must also contend with an organization devoted to haute cuisine that wants to cook the rulebooks and overwrite the menus in the diabolical third season of Food Wars!"

FORMATS: Blu-Ray

Buy From Amazon

Green Green Complete Season 1 (Media Blasters, 16+) "Meet Yusuke, a student at an all-boy’s academy, Kanenone Gakuen, located high in the mountains. Aside from being an average student, Yusuke happens to be one of those reincarnated lovers that you read about in trashy romance novels. When the academy experiments with going co-ed, an all-girl’s boarding school is merged with the boys’ school for a special summer session. Soon, a series of hysterical incidents and hormonal-fueled antics ensue that lead Yusuke to sense that one of the new female students, MIdori, might be his long-lost love from a previous life. Feeling that he and Midori are meant to be together, Yusuke proceeds to bring the prophecy to fruition. What could possibly go wrong?"

FORMATS: Blu-Ray, Blu-Ray [Media Blasters Exclusive]

Buy From Amazon

Solo Leveling Season 2 (Crunchyroll, TV-MA)"On a warpath to save his mother, Sung Jinwoo clears deadlier dungeons, grows his shadow army, and officially becomes S-Rank. But when the ant colony on Jeju Island evolves, Jinwoo must work with some of the world’s best hunters to take down their queen."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray+DVD, Blu-Ray+DVD Limited Edition

Buy From Amazon

Upcoming Releases

The Place Promised In Our Early Days March 23 [UK]

The Glassworker March 24

Loner Life In Another World March 24

Looney Tunes Collector's Vault Volume 2, March 24

RWBY Volume 9 March 24

Scott Pilgrim Takes Off March 24

The Whitest Kids U Know's Mars March 24

Macross Plus: The Movie March 30 [UK]

Solo Leveling Season 2 March 30 [UK]

Spy X Family The Movie: Code White March 30 [UK]

Lupin III: Specials Collection March 31

Lpin III vs Cat's Eye March 31

Scooby's All-Star Laff-a-lympics March 31

The Spongebob Movie: Search For SquarePants March 31

Voltes V: The Complete Series March 31

Fate/Grand Carnival April 6 [UK]

Scott Pilgrim Takes Off April 6 [UK]

The Dagger Of Kamui April 7

Farming Life In Another World April 7

One Piece : Season 14 voyage 9 April 7

Over The Garden Wall April 7

Colorful Stage: The Movie April 14

Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Freedom 4k April 14

Ushio and Tora: Complete Series April 14

Looney Tunes: The Day The Earth Blew Up April 20 [UK]

Famous Studios Champion Collection April 21

Hair High (Bill Plympton) April 21

Shangri-La Frontier Season 2 April 21

Tada Never Falls In Love April 21

Yandere Dark Elf: She Chased Me All the Way From Another World! April 28

Bloom Into You May 5

Alien Nine May 12

Heavy Metal L-Gaim May 12

The Legend Of Hei 2 May 12

The Apothecary Diaries Season 1 May 19

Arco May 19

Scarlet May 19

Fleischer Cartoons: Greatest Hits, Volume 1 May 26

K-Pop Demon Hunters, The Girl Who Cried Pearls Triumph at The Oscars

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Perkins) — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 12:57:00 +0000

Although there are other award ceremonies that occur throughout the year, The Oscars are considered the climax of the Awards Season. Certainly, they are the most recognised and acclaimed. The 2025-2026 film awards season came to its traditional conclusion this past weekend with the 98th Academy Awards.

The award season circuit includes prizes given out by various award organisations and critics' circles. In terms of animation the competition initially started out quite open. There were wins for Zootopia 2, Arco and Little Amelie Or The Character Of Rain. But as the season rolled on, the momentum seemed to be with K-Pop Demon Hunters, picking up an impressive 98 wins to Zootopia's 15. K-Pop Demon Hunter picked up major awards including The Golden Globes, The Critics Choice, The VES Awards and 10 Annie Awards. So, going into The Oscars it really seemed it was K-Pop Demon Hunters' award to lose.

And lose it did not, as much as predicted, K-Pop Demon Hunters was awarded the Oscar for Best Animated Feature. This marks the second win for Sony Pictures Animation, following Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse, and the second win for Netflix following Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio. It's the first win for directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans.

If any outcome could have been said to be more than predictable than K-Pop's win in Best Animated Feature, it was that same film's win in Best Original Song. The movie's breakout hit Golden took home the little gold man, beating out fierce competition from I Lied To You from Sinners and becoming the first K-Pop song to do so. It was also one of only two nominated songs to get a live performance on the night.

It was a much more open field in the category of Best Animated Short. In what was far from a foregone conclusion, the Oscar was awarded to The Girl Who Cried Pearls from Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski and Canada's National Film Board. We previously interviewed Chris and Maciek here.

Lastly, the Best Visual Effects Oscar was awarded to James Cameron's Avatar: Fire and Ash. The award was given to Joe Letteri, Richard Baneham, Eric Saindon and Daniel Barrett for their ground-breaking work on the threequel.

And that's it for another year. We'll see you next year, when I'm guessing the Oscar will go to... Wildwood (check back this time next year and see if I'm right!).

Best Animated Feature Film of the Year

Arco – Ugo Bienvenu, Félix de Givry, Sophie Mas and Natalie Portman

Elio – Madeline Sharafian, Domee Shi, Adrian Molina and Mary Alice Drumm
KPop Demon Hunters – Maggie Kang, Chris Appelhans and Michelle L.M. Wong (winner)
Little Amélie or the Character of Rain – Maïlys Vallade, Liane-Cho Han, Nidia Santiago and Henri Magalon
Zootopia 2 – Jared Bush, Byron Howard and Yvett Merino

Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures (Original Song)

“Dear Me” – Diane Warren: Relentless – Music and Lyric by Diane Warren

“Golden” – KPop Demon Hunters – Music and Lyric by EJAE, Mark Sonnenblick, Joong Gyu Kwak, Yu Han Lee, Hee Dong Nam, Jeong Hoon Seon and Teddy Park (winner)

“I Lied to You” – Sinners – Music and Lyric by Raphael Saadiq and Ludwig Goransson

“Sweet Dreams of Joy” – Viva Verdi! – Music and Lyric by Nicholas Pike

“Train Dreams” – Train Dreams – Music by Nick Cave and Bryce Dessner; Lyric by Nick Cave

Best Animated Short Film

Butterfly – Florence Miailhe and Ron Dyens

Forevergreen – Nathan Engelhardt and Jeremy Spears

The Girl Who Cried Pearls – Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski (winner)

Retirement Plan – John Kelly and Andrew Freedman

The Three Sisters – Konstantin Bronzit

Achievement in Visual Effects

Avatar: Fire and Ash – Joe Letteri, Richard Baneham, Eric Saindon and Daniel Barrett (winner)

F1 – Ryan Tudhope, Nicolas Chevallier, Robert Harrington and Keith Dawson

Jurassic World: Rebirth – David Vickery, Stephen Aplin, Charmaine Chan and Neil Corbould

The Lost Bus – Charlie Noble, David Zaretti, Russell Bowen and Brandon K. McLaughlin

Sinners – Michael Ralla, Espen Nordahl, Guido Wolter and Donnie Dean

[source]

The AFA Podcast Interview: With Sevan Najarian (The Whitest Kids U Know's Mars)

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Perkins) — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 13:44:00 +0000

Well, hello there, and welcome back to The AFA Podcast interview series. This time around we spoke with Sevan Najarian, animator, director, editor and effects whizz who directed The Whitest Kids U Know's Mars, the first (and last) animated feature written by and starring the cult comedy troupe The Whitest Kids U Know. We spoke about his origins at Channel 101, the making of the movie and the challenges he faced and more. Whether you're a big fan of The Whitest Kids from back in the day or you are a newcomer, you should enjoy this chat!

Presented and produced by Chris Perkins.

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SHOW NOTES

The Whitest Kids You Know's Mars Screening Venues

Washington, DC (Bryant Street) – Alamo Drafthouse
Los Angeles, CA – Alamo Drafthouse
San Francisco, CA – Alamo Drafthouse
Santa Ana, CA – The Frida Cinema
Denver, CO (Sloans Lake) – Alamo Drafthouse
Westminster, CO – Alamo Drafthouse
Chicago, IL – Alamo Drafthouse
Indianapolis, IN – Alamo Drafthouse
Kansas City, MO – Armour Theater
Springfield, MO – Alamo Drafthouse
St. Louis, MO – Arkadin Cinema & Bar
Brooklyn, NY – Alamo Drafthouse
Manhattan, NY – Alamo Drafthouse
Portland, OR – Clinton Street Theater
Austin, TX – Violet Crown
Dallas, TX – Violet Crown
Ashburn, VA (Loudoun) – Alamo Drafthouse
Charlottesville, VA – Violet Crown
Crystal City, VA – Alamo Drafthouse
Woodbridge, VA – Alamo Drafthouse

Blu-Ray - with 10+ hours of extras- available here, or preorder from Amazon here.

Family Guy 'Stewie' Spin-Off Announced

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Perkins) — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 11:34:00 +0000

One sure-fire sign that a franchise is a success is when it gets given a spin-off. When it gets two spin-offs, you know it's really successful. It's been quite a few years since the first Family Guy spin-off The Cleveland Show ended (back in 2013), but now a second spin-off has been announced. And this time it revolves around perhaps the show's most iconic character, evil baby, Stewie.

The series has been handed a two-season order straight off the bat (a sign of confidence from the network) and is aiming to air on Fox during the 2027-2028 season. The show will stream next day on Hulu and will air internationally on Disney+.

According to the official synopsis, “After getting the boot from his old preschool, Stewie is forced to enrol in a new one that’s not exactly top-of-the-line. It’s attended by a handful of kids he doesn’t know, and a 75 year-old class turtle with a half-cocked theory on just about every subject. Stewie’s miserable, the other kids are miserable, and even the turtle is miserable…until Stewie begins rolling out his trusty array of devices to take them anywhere in space and time, turning every boring day at school into an insane and surreal adventure.”

Seth MacFarlane will reprise the role of Stewie, and most likely provide other voices too. MacFarlane will also executive produce for Fuzzy Door Productions. The series is created by MacFarlane with long-time Family Guy writer Kirker Butler, who will also executive produce with Kara Vallow. Kirker Butler will act as the showrunner.

“I’d like to thank Fox for this incredible opportunity, and I’m excited to start pretending I’m collaborating closely with them on the show,” said MacFarlane.

“I am honoured and humbled that Seth, 20th Television Animation and Fox have trusted me with one of the most iconic animated characters in the history of television" added Butler. "I have known Seth for more than two decades, worked with him on half a dozen projects, and I am hopeful this is the one where he finally learns my name.”

Stewie is produced by 20th Television Animation.

[source]

Cardiff Animation Festival Releases Full Programme

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Perkins) — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 12:20:00 +0000

The Cardiff Animation Festival, Wales's biggest animation event (and one of the largest in the UK) is returning for another edition next month. Across four days, the festival will feature a host of screenings, workshops, masterclasses, live performances, talks and events. Having previously revealed the programme highlights, the full programme is now available.

Hosted at Chapter Arts Centre, the festival's ninth edition will be a celebration of animation in all its forms. Renowned for championing imaginative storytelling and platforming diverse voices, the latest line-up promises to be the most packed yet.

This year's festival features LA-based British animator Julia Potts- creator of Summer Camp Island and veteran of Adventure Time- and a Japanese animation focus, with screenings of The Last Blossom and 100 Meters, in association with Kotatsu Festival. The festival also features its biggest short film competition to date, with 98 films selected from over 700 submissions and screened across eight themed strands- Play, Pause, Rewind, Mute, Home, Shuffle, Late Night and Welsh Work. This year’s jury is made up of Pip Williamson, Sarah Schmidt and Nia Edwards‑Behi.

This year the festival is also expanding its games offering, with sessions with the BAFTA-winning Thank Goodness You're Here and the BAFTA-Nominated The Midnight Walk, supported by an exhibition of playable titles and puppets from the production.

CAF 2026 will also present a host of live events, performances and creative experiences. Sketch Showdown is a live drawing gameshow where competitors race to draw images from memory while their teammates try to guess them. Filmmaker Gerald Conn brings his sand-on-glass animation to the stage with Sand On Screen, featuring screenings, live animation and a look at his new app, Sandimation. Super Mario Kart hits the big screen in Rainbow Road Rumble, a large-scale multiplayer showdown hosted by multidisciplinary artist, animator and YouTube creator Jamie Fern Hensley‑Davies.

Industry day includes a keynote from Phillipa Rice, a career‑starter session with Copa Gaming, and panels on commissioning, feature development, digital‑first storytelling and freelancing. The festival also features a collaboration with Abertoir Festival, including a screening and Q&A on the hidden history of animation in special effects in horror cinema. It will screen alongside Ray Harryhausen's classic creature feature The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms. Dr Stacy Abbot will examine how the genre has relied on animation for over a century. The festival will also feature a screening of the Oscar-nominated feature Little Amelie Or The Character Of Rain.

Festival director Lauren Orme says: “Cardiff Animation Festival is all about bringing people together through animation, and this year’s programme is our most playful and packed yet. We’ve got beautiful films, brilliant guests, live performances, creative workshops and fun surprises. Whether you’re an animation fan, an industry professional, a budding animator, a film lover or just curious, we’d love you to join us at Chapter this April and experience the joy of animation.”

Socials and parties will bring the community together throughout the weekend, including animated karaoke hosted by Justin Drag, and a curated shorts night from Chicago-based Malt Adult.

Workshops run throughout the festival, with fun for all ages. Highlights include Aardman model making, flip-book animation, dog life drawing, sand animation with Gerald Conn, a doodle‑and‑mural session with Jamie Stockley, and a special session with Oscar-nominated animator Joanna Quinn.

The festival will climax with the Best Of The Fest Awards, hosted by Radio 1's film critic Ali Plumb. Awards will include Best Short, Best Student Short, Best Micro Short, The Young Jury Award and The Audience Award.

The festival runs from April 23-26, 2026. For more details or to buy passes, visit the festival website. A selection of events, and the shorts are also available online from April 23- May 4.

LAIKA Artbook 'The Magic Behind a Stop-Motion Dream Factory' Now Available

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Perkins) — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 12:14:00 +0000

Every animation fan worth their salt has a collection of artbooks. Often dedicated to a particular film, studio or artist, these coffee-table books are the realm of the true connoisseur. A much-anticipated book of this variety has just been released: LAIKA: The Magic Behind a Stop-Motion Dream Factory: Two Decades of Groundbreaking Animation from Coraline to Wildwood. This mouthful of a name heralds a long awaited history of the Portland-based stop-motion supremos- like the title says, from debut feature Coraline to the not-yet-released new film Wildwood.

Written by Ozzy Inguanzo and published by Rizzoli, the book promises to offer "an unprecedented look behind the curtain of the preeminent stop-motion studio, this comprehensive volume is brimming with exclusive artwork, photography, and interviews with key creatives." Artbooks have previously been released for individual LAIKA films, but this is the first comprehensive guide to the whole studio and its history.

In this rare glimpse at LAIKA’s 500,000-square-foot dream factory, read how the visionaries of the renowned stop-motion studio bring LAIKA’s handcrafted films to life one frame at a time. Stunning new puppet photography, never-before-seen artwork, and interviews with the studio’s community of storytellers take readers on an unforgettable tour through the studio’s key people, places, and processes, from script development to production design, puppet fabrication, 3D face printing, animation, and visual effects. Featuring a double-page gatefold measuring nearly three feet wide, this expansive illustrated publication on the illustrious studio reveals LAIKA’s innovations in stop-motion filmmaking over the last two decades, from Kubo and the Two Strings to ParaNorman, The Boxtrolls, Coraline, Missing Link, and Wildwood.

The Oscar-nominated, BAFTA-winning studio celebrated its 20th anniversary last year, and announced that its newest feature the epic fantasy Wildwood will be released in October of 2026. The film promises to have their most spectacular stop-motion animation yet and has been in production for over 10 years.

LAIKA: The Magic Behind a Stop-Motion Dream Factory: Two Decades of Groundbreaking Animation from Coraline to Wildwood is out now and is available to purchase from here or from here in the UK.

Out This Week: Mars, Little Amelie or The Character Of Rain, Zootropolis 2

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Perkins) — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 14:23:00 +0000

Well, hello strangers. After an extended hiatus, we're back with another edition of Out This Week, our weekly round-up of what's new on physical media (and sometimes digital). New this week is the Oscar nominated french feature Little Amelie or The Character of Rain, and Mars, the first and final animated feature from comedy troupe The Whitest Kids U Know.

New in the UK this week is Disney's Zootropolis 2, otherwise known as Zootopia 2, arriving on disc following a record-breaking cinema run, which saw it become the highest grossing American animated film of all time.

All information correct to the best of our knowledge and is subject to change.

UK Releases For March 9, 2026

Zootropolis 2 ( Disney, PG) "Brave rabbit cop Judy Hopps and her friend, the fox Nick Wilde, team up again to crack a new case, the most perilous and intricate of their careers."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray, Blu-Ray Steelbook, DVD

Buy From Amazon

Zootropolis: 2 Movie Collection (Disney, PG) "Double bill of animated adventures featuring the voice talents of Jason Bateman and Ginnifer Goodwin."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray, DVD

Buy From Amazon

US Releases For March 10, 2026

I'm Living with an Otaku NEET Kunoichi!? - Complete Collection (Sentai Filmworks, TV-14) "Having Samurai blood may be a status symbol in Japan, but as businessman Tsukasa Atsumi discovers, it also makes one a target for demonic attacks. Fortunately, he’s rescued by ninja Shizuri Ideura, who specializes in fighting demons, so the two decide to form a contract wherein she’ll move in to provide 24-7 anti-demon coverage. It’s not like hiring a maid service, though, as Shizuri is also an otaku shut-in who’d rather spend her time playing videogames and lazing about the house than fading into the background. However, given that she’s also uber-adorable, just how far away can the romantic complications be in I'm Living with an Otaku NEET Kunoichi!"

FORMATS: Blu-Ray

Buy From Amazon

Little Amélie or the Character of Rain (GKIDS/ Shout Factory, PG) "Amélie, a Belgian child in Japan, explores life with her companion Nishio-san. Her third birthday becomes a turning point, marking the beginning of life-altering events that shape her understanding of the world."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray, Digital

Buy From Amazon

Looney Tunes: Bugs Bunny Collection (Warner Bros, NR) "The characters of Looney Tunes get themselves into crazy situations."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray

Buy From Amazon

Monogatari Series: Off & Monster Season - Complete Box Set (Aniplex, 16+) "While Koyomi Araragi’s time may be ending, the journey continues with the girls he’s saved. Their own tales of struggles and supernatural threats once thought to be resolved are far from over. From the past to the future, discover their stories, challenges, and intertwined destinies they now face in the wake of Araragi’s departure."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray

Buy From Crunchyroll store

Possibly The Greatest Alchemist Of All Time: The Complete Season (Crunchyroll, TV-14) "Accidentally summoned to another world and given the ability of alchemy, Takumi decides to make life better by “inventing” modern technology. But when he becomes the target of a powerful empire, he must join the fight against them to protect his dream."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray

Buy From Amazon

Rango 4K (Paramount Pictures, PG) "When he becomes lost in the desert, pet chameleon Rango pretends he's a tough guy and ends up sheriff of a corrupt and violent frontier town."

FORMATS: 4K UHD+ Blu-Ray+Digital

Buy From Amazon

The Whitest Kids U Know's Mars (Whole Grain Pictures, R ) "When he wins a sweepstakes, Kyle Capshaw gets a once-in-a-lifetime chance to join billionaire Elron Branson on a voyage to Mars, along with four other winners. Unfortunately, he entered in order to escape his miserable career, his violently insecure soon-to-be-bride, and a secret hobby that nobody would ever understand. But things go wrong almost immediately, and soon Kyle and his fellow amateur astronauts find themselves stranded, horny, and increasingly feral."

FORMATS: Blu-Ray

Buy From Media OCD

Upcoming Releases

Ghost In The Shell SAC_2045 Season 1 March 16 [UK]

Ghost In The Shell SAC_2045 Season 2 March 16 [UK]

Lycoris Recoil March 16

The Boy and The Beast 4k March 17

David March 17

Food Wars: The third Plate March 17

Green Green March 17

Solo Leveling Season 2 March 17

The Glassworker March 24

Loner Life In Another World March 24

Looney Tunes Collector's Vault Volume 2, March 24

RWBY Volume 9 March 24

Scott Pilgrim Takes Off March 24

The Whitest Kids U Know's Mars March 24

Lupin III: Specials Collection March 31

Lpin III vs Cat's Eye March 31

Scooby's All-Star Laff-a-lympics March 31

The Spongebob Movie: Search For SquarePants March 31

Voltes V: The Complete Series March 31

Fate/Grand Carnival April 6 [UK]

Scott Pilgrim Takes Off April 6 [UK]

The Dagger Ok Kamui April 7

Farming Life In Another World April 7

One Piece : Season 14 voyage 9 April 7

Over The Garden Wall April 7

Colorful Stage: The Movie April 14

Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Freedom 4k April 14

Ushio and Tora: Complete Series April 14

Looney Tunes: The Day The Earth Blew Up April 20 [UK]

Famous Studios Champion Collection April 21

Hair High (Bill Plympton) April 21

Shangri-La Frontier Season 2 April 21

Tada Never Falls In Love April 21

Yandere Dark Elf: She Chased Me All the Way From Another World! April 28

The AFA Podcast Interview: Ricard Cusso and Elise Allen (The Pout Pout Fish)

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Perkins) — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 11:13:00 +0000

Welcome back to the AFA Podcast, and another edition of our interview specials. This time we got to speak with Ricard Cusso and Elise Allen, the director and writer respectively of The Pout Pout Fish, the new animated feature released in North America on March 20.

Presented and produced by Chris Perkins.

Listen to the show right here or Get the RSS Feed here. Find all our podcasts here, Download the show here.

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See all our Episodes here

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SHOW NOTES

Zootopia 2 Comes To Streaming This March

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Perkins) — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 15:01:00 +0000

Fans had been waiting just short of a decade for a return to the world of Zootopia (known in the UK and some other markets as Zootropolis). That return finally arrived last year with the release of Zootopia 2. Now Disney has announced that the sequel is going to be streaming exclusively on Disney+ starting this month.

It seems that audiences were extremely hungry for further adventures of Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde, as the film broke all sorts of records. The film went on to become the highest-grossing animated MPA (Motion Picture Association) release of all time, and the eighth highest-grossing film of all time, with $1.85 billion. The film is the fifth film from Walt Disney Animation Studios to gross more than $1 billion at the box office- including, of course, its predecessor. It also had the fourth-highest global opening, behind only the last two Avengers films and Spider-Man: No Way Home. Over $650 million of that $1.85 billion came from China, where it has become the highest-grossing Hollywood release of all time, still dominating the box office after 11 weeks on release.

The film won the BAFTA Film Award for Best Animated Feature and is nominated for the same at this month's Oscars. It has received similar acclaim from audiences too, including a Rotten Tomatoes 96% Verified Hot Audience Score and an A CinemaScore

The film picks up not long after the original, with Judy and Nick still rookie cops (and now partners). The dynamic duo find themselves caught up in a great mystery with the arrival of Gary De'Snake, apparently the first reptile seen in the city in a century. To uncover the mystery, they must travel to previously unseen parts of town, go undercover, and test their new partnership like never before.

The film is directed by Byron Howard and Jared Bush, written by Bush and produced by Yvett Merino. It features the voices of Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman, Ke Huy Quan, Idris Elba, Andy Samberg, David Strathairn, Macaulay Culkin, Brenda Song, Fortune Feimster, Patrick Warburton and Nate Torrence.

Zooopia 2 will be available on Disney+ alongside the original Zootopia and the short-form TV series Zootopia+. Existing titles have been streamed more than 805 million hours globally to date. And it's sure to jump up even higher when the sequel is available. Fans can visit the Zootopia Collection to get caught up or watch an old favourite.

Zootopia 2 will be available to stream on Disney+ from March 11. Subscription required.