Ryan Reynolds’ Star-Studded Hybrid Comedy ‘Animal Friends’ Pushed to January 2027

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Fans eagerly awaiting the R-rated team-up of Ryan Reynolds, Jason Momoa, and Aubrey Plaza will have to wait a bit longer to see them in furry, foul-mouthed form. Sony Pictures has officially shifted the release date for its upcoming live-action/animation hybrid, Animal Friends, moving it from its original summer slot to January 15, 2027.

A Powerhouse Voice Cast

In Animal Friends, “Two fugitive animals, Pony (voiced by Ryan Reynolds) and Bear (voiced by Jason Momoa), hit the road on a cross-country adventure across America to return to the ranch that was once their home, healing their fractured friendship while being pursued by an equally ‘odd-couple’ DEA agent (Aubrey Plaza) and Fish & Wildlife ranger (Dan Levy) with something to prove.”

  • Ryan Reynolds (Deadpool & Wolverine)

  • Jason Momoa (Aquaman)

  • Aubrey Plaza (The White Lotus)

  • Dan Levy (Schitt’s Creek)

  • Lil Rel Howery (Get Out)

  • Addison Rae (Thanksgiving)

The Creative Vision

The film is being directed by Peter Atencio, the Emmy-winning director behind Key & Peele and the action-comedy Keanu. The script comes from the writing duo of Kevin Burrows and Matt Mider (The Package).

What makes Animal Friends particularly noteworthy in the animation space is the collaboration between Sony and DNEG Animation. The studio, known for its high-end visual effects and recent work on The Garfield Movie, is handling the character animation that will be integrated into the live-action world.

The Road Ahead

The decision to move the film to 2027 suggests a commitment to ensuring the complex VFX and character integration meet the high standards expected of a star-driven hybrid. By landing in January, Animal Friends follows a successful trend of R-rated comedies and unique genre films finding strong legs during the post-holiday season.

With a cast this charismatic and an R-rated edge, Animal Friends is shaping up to be one of the most unconventional entries in the hybrid genre. Audiences will just have to sit tight until 2027 to see what kind of chaos these creatures stir up.