The 2025 Annecy Animation Festival once again showcased why it is considered the capital of global animation. Drawing in indie talent from all over the world, major animation studios, and thousands of students, this year’s festival highlighted significant changes in anime distribution, labor advocacy, cross-border collaboration, and the integration of AI technology.
Here are the top ten highlights from Annecy 2025:
- The Big Picture: Annecy 2025 was the most diverse and ambitious edition yet, with a record-breaking 18,200 attendees from 118 countries. The 40th anniversary of MIFA was celebrated, with a focus on innovation and inclusion. A new residency program supporting women directors was announced, along with the Women in the Animation Industry conference.
- A New Kind of Opening Night: The festival opened with a selection of diverse shorts, including a politically charged statement from Bulgarian animator Theodore Ushev. This set the tone for a reflective and impactful week.
- Franchise Flood: Major studios previewed upcoming projects, including Netflix, Disney, Pixar, DreamWorks, Paramount, Sony, and Warner Bros. A wide range of new and returning titles were showcased, setting the stage for the future of animation.
- Indie Animation Finds Its Footing: Despite the dominance of Hollywood studios, the festival made space for independent and international works. The competition highlighted bold storytelling and diverse voices from around the world.
- Hungary in the Spotlight: Hungary was honored as the official country of focus, showcasing its rich animation history and vibrant storytelling. The country’s presence extended beyond screenings, with exhibitions and educational initiatives.
- Celebration Overshadowed: The closing ceremony took on a somber tone, with filmmakers expressing solidarity with victims of war and oppression, particularly in the Middle East. The festival ended on a politically charged note.
- WBD’s Return to Form: Warner Bros. Discovery made a strong impact with a Studio Spotlight showcasing new and returning series. The collaboration between Warner Bros. Animation, Cartoon Network Studios, and Hanna-Barbera Studios Europe was a highlight of the festival.
- AI Sparks Debate and Protest: Generative AI technology sparked discussions and protests at the festival. Filmmakers raised concerns about the impact of AI on creativity and job security in the animation industry.
- Legends Honored: Matt Groening, Michel Gondry, and Joanna Quinn received the Cristal Career Awards, celebrating their contributions to the animation industry. Their reflections on risk-taking and authenticity resonated with the festival’s themes.
- Key Announcements Made at Annecy 2025: A range of announcements were made, including new projects from Pixar, Warner Bros. Animation, Laika, and more. The festival set the stage for exciting developments in the world of animation.
Overall, Annecy 2025 proved to be a transformative and impactful event, highlighting the diversity and innovation present in the global animation industry. The festival’s emphasis on inclusivity, creativity, and social awareness set a new standard for the future of animation.
