Annecy 2026 Lineup Revealed: Ricky Gervais, Brad Bird, Mike Judge Among Key Guests

The Annecy International Animation Film Festival has unveiled its 2026 lineup, promising a star-driven edition featuring some of the biggest names in animation, including Ricky Gervais, Brad Bird and Mike Judge.

Set to take place from 21 to 27 June in the French lakeside town of Annecy, the festival will once again spotlight global animation trends, premieres and industry conversations. Judge, best known for King of the Hill and Beavis and Butt-Head, will be honoured with the prestigious Honorary Cristal, while stop-motion filmmakers the Brothers Quay will also receive the distinction.

The 2026 edition will feature appearances and presentations from leading creatives and studios. Gervais is expected to host a masterclass and present a preview of his upcoming Netflix project Alley Cats, while Bird will discuss his long-anticipated sci-fi detective film Ray Gunn as part of the platform’s showcase.

Major studios including Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar and Warner Bros. Animation are set to debut new footage and projects. Highlights include early looks at Disney’s Hexed, Pixar’s Venice-set Gatto, and Warner Bros.’ upcoming features and shorts, including Batman: Knightfall and The Cat in the Hat.

The festival will open with the animated feature Minions & Monsters, leading a selection of nearly 50 films in the official programme. The main competition will include several world premieres spanning diverse themes—from historical narratives to contemporary global stories—while the Contrechamp section will spotlight independent and experimental works.

Beyond screenings, Annecy will host industry-focused events, including the International Animation Film Market, which will feature close to 1,000 exhibitors. Discussions will explore topics such as cross-platform storytelling, the intersection of gaming and animation, the growth of African animation, and the impact of artificial intelligence on the sector.

A new highlight this year is the inauguration of La Cité internationale du cinéma d’animation, a permanent cultural hub dedicated to animation. The centre will include a museum, cinema, exhibition spaces and artist residencies, marking a significant expansion of Annecy’s year-round presence.

Following a record-breaking attendance of 18,000 visitors in 2025, the festival is expected to draw a similarly large global audience, reaffirming its position as the world’s leading event for animation professionals and enthusiasts alike.

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