Warner Bros. announced that the hybrid live action animated film Animal Friends will now open on January 22 2027. The studio moved the movie from its original June 5 2026 slot after several schedule changes. Fans of the project can finally mark the new date on their calendars. The film has bounced around the calendar for years. It first appeared as an August 15 2025 release under Columbia. After Legendary ended its distribution deal with Sony, Warner Bros. took over. The studio then set tentative dates for October 10, May 1 and finally June 5 before landing on the early 2027 slot. Each change reflects the studio’s strategy to give the movie a clear window without heavy competition.
Star Power Drives the Buzz
Ryan Reynolds lends his voice to Pony, a tiny narcissist who dreams of greatness. Jason Momoa voices Bear, a large but conflict averse companion. Their chemistry promises humor and heart. The cast also includes Aubrey Plaza as a DEA agent, Addison Rae as a supporting character, Dan Levy as a Fish and Wildlife ranger, Lil Rey Howery as the voice of a bird, and Ellie Bamber in a live action role.
Creative Team and Storyline
Peter Atencio directs the adult‑targeted road trip adventure. Screenwriters Kevin Burrows and Matt Mider, known for work on Legendary and Maximum Effort projects, crafted a script that follows Pony and Bear as they flee across America. They search for a ranch they once called home while evading a quirky DEA duo and a wildlife ranger.
What’s Next for the Cast
Reynolds will appear in the action comedy Mayday later this year. Momoa has several projects lined up, including The Wrecking Crew in January and upcoming roles in Street Fighter and Dune Part Three. Their involvement adds extra draw for audiences when Animal Friends finally arrives.
Industry Context
The June 5 slot that Animal Friends abandoned now hosts a busy slate. Masters of the Universe from Amazon MGM, Lionsgate’s Power Ballad starring Nick Jonas and Paul Rudd, and Paramount Miramax’s Scary Movie all share the date. Warner Bros. hopes the new January window will let Animal Friends shine without competing against these releases.
Overall, the shift to 2027 gives the hybrid film more room to build hype. With Ryan Reynolds and Jason Momoa leading the voice cast, and a quirky road trip plot, Animal Friends promises to be a unique entry in the animated adventure genre.
Source: Variety
