Bong Joon Ho Unveils First Animated Film ‘Ally’ Featuring a Squid

Bong Joon Ho, the Academy Award-winning director, has announced his first animated film titled “Ally.” This project is particularly exciting for fans, as it has been in development since 2019.

About “Ally”

The film centers around a unique creature, a “piglet squid,” which is indeed a real species. The character, Ally, is portrayed as a curious and endearing figure living in the depths of the South Pacific Ocean. Her ultimate dream is to see the sun and become the star of a wildlife documentary.

When an enigmatic aircraft sinks into her serene underwater home, Ally’s peaceful life is disrupted. She, along with her colorful and loyal companions, embarks on an extraordinary journey that takes them to the ocean’s surface.

Thematic Elements

• The film emphasizes friendship and courage.
• It explores the interactions between humans and marine creatures.
• Visually captivating underwater worlds enhance the narrative.

The journey is not just about adventure; it blends humor and emotion, appealing to family audiences.

Production Details

“Ally” is set for completion in the first half of 2027, with a worldwide theatrical release planned for that same year. This will be Bong Joon Ho’s first release following his 2025 film “Mickey 17.”

Key players in the production of “Ally” include:

• Seo Woo-sik as producer, marking his third collaboration with Bong.
• Animation supervisor Jae Hyung Kim, known for “Toy Story 4” and “Inside Out.”
• Supervising producer David Lipman, associated with the “Shrek” franchise.
• Production designer Marcin Jakubowski, known for “Klaus.”

DNEG, renowned for their work on films like “Inception” and “Dune,” will provide high-end 3D animation expertise.

Distribution Plans

The financing and distribution of “Ally” are managed by CJ ENM, Penture Invest, and Pathé. Distribution specifics include:

• Pathé handling distribution in France, Benelux, Switzerland, and West Africa.
• CJ ENM and Penture managing distribution in South Korea, Vietnam, Turkey, and Indonesia.
• Pathé also represents international sales outside Japan, China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, where CJ and Penture will oversee sales.

Bong Joon Ho’s “Ally” promises to be a groundbreaking animated adventure that showcases both creativity and emotional depth, reflecting his distinctive storytelling style.