(Photo from Pixar via Cartoon Brew)
Pixar is returning to its artistic roots with Gatto, a bold new animated feature set for theatrical release in summer 2027.
Directed by Enrico Casarosa, the film is set in Venice and follows the journey of a black cat named Nero as it navigates the shadowy alleys and flooded corners of the city. Indebted to a feline mob boss, Nero is forced into a precarious deal that leads him to an unexpected partnership with Maya, a lonely street violinist who performs near the Rialto Bridge.
Announced earlier this year, Gatto is Pixar’s first hand-painted animated movie, marking a significant milestone for the studio, known for its digital animation. Unlike earlier films that only resembled paintings in parts, Gatto is fully rendered to look hand-drawn. It combines real brushstrokes with modern animation, creating a fresh and unique look that feels both timeless and contemporary.
In an era dominated by high-polish CGI, Gatto signals a revival of hand-crafted artistry combined with traditional 2D hand-drawn animation with Pixar’s cutting-edge CG technology. Pixar’s decision to reunite with director Enrico Casarosa—best known for his work on Luca, the sun-drenched, watercolor-inspired tale set on the Italian coast—underscores the studio’s renewed focus on original storytelling and visual experimentation.
Set for release in July 2027, Gatto may mark the beginning of a new visual era for Disney-Pixar—and possibly pave the way for future projects blending analog warmth with digital depth.
Gatto is a reminder that, in an increasingly digital world, there is still magic in the handmade.
