Recent bit of news from Animation World Network: “Toei Animation has signed up Lionsgate as its U.S. distribution partner beginning with Monkey Quest, a 3DCG-animated adventure that’s being set for wide release in North American theaters in 2027… Set in a near-future world where wonder and danger collide, Monkey Quest follows a fearless teenage girl, Elle, and her brother, who are desperate to find their missing parents… They awaken Okon, Earth’s long-forgotten protector. The unlikely trio must learn to trust one another on a high-stakes journey, building to a finale that transforms into a full anime battle sequence, blending CG with the studio’s signature anime artistry… Auli’i Cravalho (Moana) voices Elle, Adam Devine (The Righteous Gemstones) voices Okon, and J.K. Simmons (Whiplash) voices a menacing alien force. Sam Richardson (Veep), Skylar Astin (Pitch Perfect), Anna Chlumsky (Veep), and Jonathan Kite (2 Broke Girls) round out the cast.” Plus it’s directed by David N. Weiss, the writer of Shrek 2. Stay tooned for more information on the release date!
image c. 2026 Toei Animation
