Bong Joon Ho unveils first look at animated film Ally ahead of 2027 release

Acclaimed filmmaker Bong Joon Ho has revealed the first look at Ally, his debut animated feature, marking a major shift from his live-action filmmaking style. The update was first reported by Variety.

Co-written by Bong and Jason Yu, the film is produced by Barunson C&C, with support from CJ ENM, Penture Invest, and Pathé. Producer Seo Woo-sik reunites with Bong following earlier collaborations on Mother and Okja. Production is expected to wrap in early 2027, with a global release planned the same year.

The story follows Ally, a piglet squid living in the depths of the South Pacific Ocean, who dreams of reaching the surface and appearing in a wildlife documentary. Her life changes dramatically after an aircraft crashes into the sea, launching her on an unexpected journey with a group of unlikely companions.

Blending family adventure with emotional storytelling, the film explores themes of bravery, identity, and connection. The production draws on real marine biology for its creature design and features a global team spanning 12 countries. Animation supervisor Jae Hyung Kim (Toy Story 4, Inside Out) and supervising producer David Lipman (Shrek) are among the key creatives, while DNEG is handling 3D animation.

Following the global success of Parasite, Bong’s move into animation signals a bold new creative chapter, positioning Ally as a highly anticipated release in the coming year