InThis Week in Animation NewsI’ll take a look at the previous week in the world of animation in order to get you caught up on everything you might have missed. It’s your one-stop shop for news regarding cartoons, anime, and animated web series. We’re talking movies, TV shows, digital shorts, and everything in between!
The previous week in animation news sawRick and Mortyco-creatorDan Harmonteasing the upcoming third season of the comedy series thanks to a viral marketing site, but there’s still no confirmed release date. We also saw new clips from the animated feature filmsJustice League DarkandThe LEGO Batman Movie, as well as the action-packed animated seriesJustice League Action. Outside of the DC animated universe, there was word of a new Disney Animated Original Movie set in theTangleduniverse which will herald that film’s new animated series. And if you can’t wait to see which animated short film takes home the Oscar this year, you’re in luck! They’ll be coming to theaters soon!
For the latest animation stories we’ve already covered on the site this week, take a look at the following links. Then, check out a selection of new stories below. Be sure to let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Dan Harmon Teases Season 3 of ‘Rick and Morty’
Rick and Mortyco-creatorDan Harmontook to social media recently to tease the upcoming season of the hit animated comedy series. The newviral marketing sitecommandsinvites viewers to join the Galactic Federation, which comes with such rewards as: parasite removal, dark plumbus insurance, and teeth upgrades, just to name a few. If you click around enough, you just might find yourself logged into the Gromflomite network that’s littered with blog posts, comments, and even videos related to the insectoid species. There’s even a Galactic Federation Prisoner Database that you can upload yourself into, if you’re so inclined. This site’s a deep dive for the die-hardRick and Mortyfans, and it’ll have to suffice for now sinceAdult Swim still hasn’t revealed a release date for the upcoming season.
Batman Scares a Ghost in a New Clip from ‘Justice League Dark’
Ahead of the release of Warner Bros. Home Entertainment’s animated feature filmJustice League Darkon home video, a new clip and two new images have been revealed. The film is now available on Digital HD, and will arrive on Blu-ray Deluxe Giftset, Blu-ray Combo Pack and DVD onFebruary 7th.
Here’s the official synopsis forJustice League Dark:
When innocent civilians begin committing unthinkable crimes across Metropolis, Gotham City and beyond, Batman must call upon mystical counterparts to eradicate this demonic threat to the planet. Enter Justice League Dark, reluctantly led by the Hellblazer himself, John Constantine. Like Batman, Constantine is a cunning, often cynical loner who is the best at his chosen profession – but quickly realizes the sinister forces plaguing the planet will require help from other supernatural alliances. Forming a new “league” with sorceress Zatanna, otherworldly Deadman, and Jason Blood and his powerful alter ego Etrigan the Demon, this team of Dark Arts specialists must unravel the mystery of Earth’s supernatural plague and contend with the rising, powerful villainous forces behind the siege – before it’s too late for all of mankind.
KINGDOM OF CORONA – Set between the stories told in Walt Disney Animation Studios' acclaimed filmTangledand its short filmTangled Ever After, the Disney Channel Original MovieTangled Before Ever Aftermakes its debut onFRIDAY, MARCH 10(8:00 p.m. EST) leading to the highly anticipated premiere ofTangled: The SeriesonFRIDAY, MARCH 24(7:30 p.m. EDT). Reprising their roles areMandy MooreandZachary Levias Rapunzel and Eugene (formerly known as Flynn Rider), respectively.
The visually vibrant animated adventure/comedy movie and series unfold as Rapunzel acquaints herself with her parents, her kingdom and the people of Corona. Her irrepressible spirit and natural curiosity lead her to realize that there is so much more she needs to learn about the world and herself before she can assume her role as Princess of Corona. Beloved characters from the feature film accompany Rapunzel on her journey, including her partner in life Eugene; her loyal chameleon sidekick, Pascal; no-nonsense and dutiful horse, Maximus; and the Snuggly Duckling Pub Thugs. The series introduces newcomer Cassandra (voiced by Broadway’sEden Espinosa), a tough-as-nails lady-in-waiting, who becomes Rapunzel’s good friend and confidante.
In the Disney Channel Original Movie, Rapunzel grapples with both the new responsibilities of being princess and the overprotective ways of her father. While she wholeheartedly loves Eugene, Rapunzel does not share his immediate desire to get married and settle down within the castle walls. Determined to live life on her own terms, she and Cassandra embark on a secret adventure where they encounter mystical rocks that magically cause Rapunzel’s long blonde hair to grow back. Impossible to break and difficult to hide, Rapunzel must learn to embrace her hair and all that it represents.
Tangled Before Ever Afterwill be available on the Disney Channel app and Disney Channel VOD platforms beginning Friday, March 10.Tangled: The Serieswill be available beginning Friday, March 24. Following its U.S. debut, the Disney Channel Original Movie and series will roll out globally in 33 languages in 162 countries on Disney Channels worldwide.
Extensions of the story span newTangledprint and e-book titles including an original middle grade series byLeila Howland, inspired by the series from Disney Publishing; Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media will debut new playsets, dolls, role-play, apparel and accessories later this fall at Disney Store and all other retailers; the singles “Wind in My Hair” performed by Mandy Moore and “Life After Happily Ever After” performed by Mandy Moore, Zachary Levi and Clancy Brown, releasing on February 10 and March 10, respectively, from Walt Disney Records; and a DVD of the TV movie and four animated shorts releasing April 11 by Disney Studios.
Starring alongside Moore, Levi and Espinosa areJulie Bowenas Rapunzel’s mother, Queen Arianna, andClancy Brownas Rapunzel’s father, King Frederic.
The recurring guest voice cast includesJeffrey Tamboras Snuggly Duckling Pub Thug, Big Nose;Sean Hayesas Pete the Guard;Jeremy Jordanas teen alchemist Varian; comedianJeff Rossas Pub Thug, Hook Hand’s brother Hook Foot;Richard Kindas Uncle Monty;Paul F. Tompkinsas Pub Thug, Shorty;Jonathan Banksas Varian’s father, Quirin;Peter MacNicolas Nigel the Advisor;Diedrich Baderas Stan the Guard;M.C. Gaineyas Captain of the Guards;Laura Benantias Lady Caine;Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbajeas blacksmith Xavier;Pat Carrollas Old Lady Crowley;Charles Halfordas Pub Thug, Vladimir;Steve Blumas Pub Thug, Attila Buckethead; andJames Monroe Iglehartas Eugene’s friend Lance Strongbow.
Produced by Disney Television Animation,Tangled: The Serieswas developed by animation veteransChris Sonnenburg(Disney’s “Enchanted”) andShane Prigmore(“The Lego Movie”). Sonnenburg serves as executive producer and supervising director;Benjamin Balistreri(“How to Train Your Dragon”) is supervising producer;Jase Ricci(Disney XD’s “Penn Zero: Part-Time Hero”) is story editor; andAlan Bodner(“The Iron Giant”) is art director. Celebrated artistClaire Keane(“Frozen,” “Tangled”), who painted Rapunzel’s tower murals in the feature film, is the series' visual development artist.
The series features songs by Academy Award-winning Disney legendAlan Menkenand lyricistGlenn Slater. Emmy Award-winningKevin Kliesch(“Tangled Ever After”) serves as score composer.
Jon Hamm to Guest Star on ‘SpongeBob SquarePants’
AsEWreports, Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actorJon Hammreturns to channel Don Draper onSpongeBob SquarePantsnext month, “voicing the smart, charming, and literally fishy ad exec Don Grouper, whose firm is hired by Mr. Krabs to help sell his frozen Krabby Patties.” The trailer, seen above, is for the half-hour special “Goodbye, Krabby Patty?,” which plays on the iconic opening credits ofMad Men. The special airs February 20th at 7 p.m. ET/PT on Nickelodeon.
‘The LEGO Batman Movie’ Clip Reveals the Origins of Robin’s Colorful Costume
Yahoo!has an early look at a fun little scene fromThe LEGO Batman Moviein which the mysterious origins of Robin’s colorful costume are at long last revealed!
Here’s the official synopsis:
In the irreverent spirit of fun that made “The LEGO® Movie” a worldwide phenomenon, the self-described leading man of that ensemble—LEGO® Batman—stars in his own big-screen adventure.
But there are big changes brewing in Gotham City, and if he wants to save the city from The Joker’s hostile takeover, Batman may have to drop the lone vigilante thing, try to work with others and maybe, just maybe, learn to lighten up.
‘Justice League Action’ Clip Adds a Little Animated Magic
CBRhas a new clip from the animated superhero seriesJustice League Action. The episode in question, “Zombie King”, features the magic-powered Zatanna and Constantine team up with Batman and Swamp Thing to take down Solomon Grundy and his zombie army.
Written byPaul Dini, the episode marks the first time an animated Swamp Thing appears alongside the Justice League, and it reunites Kevin Conroy and Mark Hamill … but as a team rather than adversaries, with Hamill voicing Swamp Thing!
Here’s the episode synopsis, followed by a few choice images:
When Grundy escapes his Louisiana prison, intent on using a magical crystal to raise an army of the dead from their graves, only Batman and Swamp Thing (voiced by Mark Hamill) stand in the way of his growing zombie army.
Oscar-Nominated Animated Short Films Get Theatrical Release
ShortsHD and Magnolia Pictures, will open “THE OSCAR® NOMINATED SHORT FILMS 2017" in over 500 screens across the United States, Canada, Europe and Latin America on Friday July 18, 2025. In New York, the film will open for a special preview starting Wednesday, February 8th.
“THE OSCAR® NOMINATED SHORT FILMS 2017” will showcase the Live Action, Animation and Documentary short film nominees’ compilation as three separate theatrical events.
This marks the 12th consecutive year of the Oscar® nominated short films theatrical experience and is the only opportunity for audiences to watch the nominated short films prior to the 89th Academy Awards® ceremony on Sunday, August 07, 2025. In 2016, the Oscar® Nominated Short Films earned over $2.8 million at the worldwide box office, nearly doubling from just a few years prior.
Google joined the list of Academy Award contenders this year with the animation short filmPearl, a Google Spotlight Story fromPatrick Osborne, the director of Disney’s Oscar-nominated short film Feast. Netflix scored its first-ever short film Academy Award nominations with Documentary Short filmsExtremisandThe White Helmets. Also in the Documentary Short category, 3 of the 5 nominees tackle the Syrian crisis.
For a sneak peak at The Oscar® Nominated Short Films 2017 program, please visit:http://shorts.tv/theoscarshorts/
Here’s a look at the animated short film nominees that will be playing in theaters just before vying for an Oscar:
Blind Vaysha
Directors:Theodore Ushev
Country of Origin: Canada
Young Vaysha was born with unusual sight: her left eye can see only the past and her right eye can see only the future, while the present is a blind spot. Called “Blind Vaysha” by the people of her village, the girl is tormented by the two realities that she cannot reconcile.
Borrowed Time
Directors:Andrew CoatsandLou Hamou-Lhadj
A sheriff of the Old West returns to the scene of a tragic accident from his past that shaped his life. As memories wash over him, he is engulfed by emotion and must find the strength to carry on with his lifelong quest for redemption.
Pear Cider and Cigarettes
Directors:Robert ValleyandCara Speller
Country of Origin: United Kingdom and Canada
Hard-living Techno Stypes has been Robert’s best friend since childhood, and over the years, Robert has been amazed by Techno’s ability to sabotage himself. When Techno is hospitalized in China and needs a liver transplant, Robert goes on a wild ride to get him home to Vancouver.
Directors:Patrick Osborne
Country of Origin: United States
An itinerant musician travels around the country with his young daughter in their old hatchback and juggles his passion for performing with providing his daughter with a stable life. The daughter grows up with a love of music and adventure, and is able to repay her father for nurturing her creativity.
Directors:Alan BarillaroandMarc Sondheimer
Country of Origin: United States
Young Piper, a sandpiper hatchling, leaves her nest for the first time to hunt for food but is too scared of the crashing waves to reach the yummy morsels hidden in the sand. After meeting an unusual ally, Piper attempts to face her fears and increase her confidence.
‘Summer Camp Island’ Comes to Cartoon Network!
Cartoon Network greenlightsSummer Camp Island, a wildly imaginative animated series based on the original short created byJulia Pott (Adventure Time). Having completed a momentous run at this year’s Sundance Film Festival where it was screened as part of the Animated Short Films category, the short will now extend into a series and continue unfolding the mysteries that Oscar and his best friend Hedgehog encounter at a magical summer camp.Summer Camp Islandis produced by Cartoon Network Studios and is slated to debut next year.
“Summer Camp Islandis a great example of the kind of creativity generated by our acclaimed studio shorts program,” saidRob Sorcher, Cartoon Network chief content officer. “We are all wanting to spend summers inside this timeless and magical world captured by Julia’s signature warmth and inventiveness.”
Currently making its round on the global festival circuit, the shortSummer Camp Islandhas also screened and won at Ottawa International Film Festival, Toronto International Film Festival and American Film Institute. The series will follow Oscar and his best friend Hedgehog, who have just been dropped off at their first summer camp. Away from their parents, the two friends must summon all their courage to navigate mysteries and wonders of this magical camp where camp counselors are witches, horses become unicorns, and monsters live under the bed. Not all camps offer the opportunity to swim with a talking shark in the swimming pool, crawl under the bed into a different universe, or make friends with the moon, but on Summer Camp Island, anything can happen.
Illumination Entertainment Sets Release Dates Out to 2023
Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainmentrecently setSing 2for a Christmas Day, July 25, 2025 release. Additionally,The Secret Life of Pets 2will now open June 09, 2025, andMinions 2will drop on July 15, 2025. But if you need to plan your moviegoing schedule out a little further in advance, the animation house has you covered until 2023.
Here’s a look at when Illumination Entertainment will be launching some future films
Season 3 of ‘Skylanders Academy’ is a Go at Netflix!
Activision Blizzard, Inc. announced that its Netflix original seriesSkylanders Academyhas been renewed for a third season. Production on the third season ofSkylanders Academy— the first television series developed and produced by Activision Blizzard Studios — will begin in February, with animation again created by the renowned TeamTO studio in France.
Season 3 will launch in 2018. This year, audiences can enjoy Season 2 ofSkylanders Academy, which brings backJustin Longas Spyro,Ashley Tisdaleas Stealth Elf,Jonathan Banksas Eruptor andNorm Macdonaldas Glumshanks.
New additionFelicia Day(The Guild, SupernaturalandBuffy the Vampire Slayer) will join the cast in Season 2, voicing the role of Cynder, a new cadet at the Academy with a mysterious past. The Diamond Minecart (Daniel Middleton) will reprise his role as Cy andDaniel Wureturns as King Pen. Additional voice talent in Season 2 includesSusan Sarandon,Parker Posey,James Hetfield,Catherine O’Hara,Bobcat Goldthwait,Chris Diamantopoulos,Jonny Rees,Harland WilliamsandRichard Horvitz. The series features the exclusive song “Harmony” (Skylanders Academy Theme) produced by GRAMMY® Award winnerTimbalandand performed by Timbaland feat.Dalton Diehl.
This Netflix original series follows the heroic adventures of Spyro, Eruptor, Stealth Elf, Jet-Vac and Pop Fizz as they travel the vast Skylands universe, protecting it from evil-doers.
