Pixar’s “Be Fri” Mystery, Netflix’s Animation Expansion & the Future of Theatrical Animation (Ep. 354)

Jim and Drew dig into a packed week of animation news, from the surprising cancellation of a promising Pixar project to Netflix’s growing global animation footprint. Along the way, they explore box office winners, long-gestating passion projects finally coming to life, and the evolving relationship between streaming, theatrical releases, and viral animation hits. It’s a wide-ranging conversation that highlights just how quickly the animation industry continues to shift.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Pixar’s canceled “Be Fri” project revealed - a female-led film that was deep into development before being shelved amid studio shifts and Disney+ strategy changes
• “Super Mario Galaxy” tops the box office while global competition heats up from international hits like China’s “Pegasus 3”
• Netflix expands its animation empire with a new Vancouver studio hub, joining Disney and Sony in a growing production hotspot
• Fathom Events brings viral hit “The Amazing Digital Circus” to theaters, highlighting the pipeline from YouTube to the big screen
• Brad Bird’s long-awaited “Ray Gunn” finally unveils first images after decades in development
• Warner Bros. and Netflix continue investing in YA and reimagined fairy tale animation, including “Steps” and new book adaptations
• One Piece grows into a full franchise push with new seasons, specials, and theme park experiences

HOSTS
• Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com
• Drew Taylor - IG: @drewtailored | X: @DrewTailored | Website: drewtaylor.work

FOLLOW
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SUPPORT
Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia.

PRODUCTION CREDITS
Edited by Dave Grey
Produced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency

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