In an exciting announcement from Disney-Pixar, just three months after the success of a small indie film featuring a black cat that won the Oscar for Best Animated Feature, the renowned studio has unveiled plans for their own film centered around a black cat. Titled Gatto, this upcoming feature is directed by Enrico Casarosa, who is known for his work on Luca and La Luna.
Set against the enchanting backdrop of Venice, Italy, Gatto follows the story of a black cat named Nero. According to the official logline, “Indebted to a feline mob boss, Nero finds himself forced to forge an unexpected friendship that may finally lead him to his purpose…” This intriguing premise sets the stage for a unique blend of adventure and self-discovery.
As fans eagerly await the release of Gatto, additional details revealed during the Pixar presentation at the Annecy festival have shed light on Nero's personality and relationships. Notably, Nero has a dislike for water and a passion for music. His journey brings him into contact with a street artist named Maya, suggesting themes of creativity and friendship that resonate deeply throughout the film.
What sets Gatto apart from previous Pixar films is its distinctive artistic style. The film is described as being more stylized than earlier animations, featuring a painterly approach that utilizes 2D hand-painted textures and shaders. This technique aligns with the recent trend seen in other animated features, such as the Spider-Verse franchise and The Wild Robot, which have embraced innovative visual storytelling.
Gatto is produced by Andrea Warren, who also played a pivotal role in the production of Luca. With such experienced talent behind the scenes, expectations are high for this upcoming film. Gatto is slated to premiere in the summer of 2027, and it is important to note that three other Pixar films are scheduled to release before it: Elio in 2025, Hoppers in 2026, and Toy Story 5 also in 2026.
As the animation community looks forward to the arrival of Gatto, fans are excited to see how this charming story about a black cat will unfold, continuing Pixar's legacy of heartwarming and visually stunning storytelling.
