Pixar’s ‘Hoppers’ Is a Wildly Entertaining Return to Form
Pixar’s latest, Hoppers, arrives in theaters this Friday, March 6th, and it’s a welcome return to form for the animation studio. The film, directed by Daniel Chong and starring Piper Curda, Bobby Moynihan, and Jon Hamm, isn’t just visually charming; it’s a surprisingly unhinged and funny eco-fable that feels refreshingly different from recent Pixar offerings like Inside Out 2 and Lightyear.
The story centers on Mabel Tanaka (Curda), a 19-year-vintage college student and passionate animal lover living in the aptly named town of Beaverton. Haunted by the loss of her grandmother and increasingly frustrated by the encroachment of development on the local forest glade, Mabel finds herself embroiled in a bizarre scientific experiment. Mayor Jerry (Hamm), a cheerfully oblivious politician, is pushing for a highway that threatens the glade, while the local beaver population—and all the other forest creatures—have mysteriously vanished.
Enter Dr. Sam (Kathy Najimy) and “Hoppers,” a technology that allows a human consciousness to be transferred into a robotic animal. Against Dr. Sam’s better judgment, Mabel hops into a remarkably lifelike robotic beaver, hoping to communicate with the animals and understand why they’ve disappeared. What she discovers is far more complex – and chaotic – than she could have imagined.
A Return to Originality
For a studio that once consistently delivered groundbreaking animated features like Ratatouille and WALL-E, Pixar’s recent output has felt increasingly reliant on sequels and prequels. Hoppers marks a significant shift, offering a wholly original story with a unique premise. The film doesn’t shy away from darker themes – environmental destruction, the consequences of unchecked development – but balances them with a healthy dose of slapstick humor and genuinely heartwarming moments.
The voice cast is exceptional. Piper Curda imbues Mabel with a relatable mix of idealism and frustration, while Bobby Moynihan shines as King George, the jovial and slightly neurotic beaver leader. Jon Hamm is perfectly cast as the well-meaning but oblivious Mayor Jerry, and the ensemble supporting cast, including Isiah Whitlock Jr. And Meryl Streep (yes, that Meryl Streep, voicing a monarch butterfly), adds layers of comedic brilliance.
Beyond the Giggles: An Environmental Message
While the film is undeniably funny, Hoppers isn’t afraid to tackle serious issues. The central conflict revolves around the destruction of natural habitats and the impact of human activity on the animal kingdom. The film subtly explores the idea of interspecies communication and the potential consequences of ignoring the needs of the environment. It’s a message delivered with a light touch, avoiding preachiness while still prompting viewers to consider their own relationship with the natural world.
The film’s premise, while fantastical, draws inspiration from real-world scientific advancements. The idea of using robotics to study animal behavior is not entirely far-fetched, and the film cleverly explores the ethical implications of such technology. The “Hoppers” program, as described in the film, allows for a unique perspective on the animal world, but also raises questions about intervention and the potential for unintended consequences.
Daniel Chong’s Vision
Hoppers is the second feature film directed by Daniel Chong, following 2022’s Turning Red. Chong’s background in storyboarding and visual development is evident in the film’s vibrant animation and dynamic action sequences. He brings a distinct visual style to Hoppers, blending realistic environments with the whimsical designs of the animal characters. The film’s visual aesthetic is reminiscent of classic animated films, but with a modern sensibility.
Jesse Andrews, who penned the screenplay, is known for his work on coming-of-age stories like Into the Wild and Comet. His writing style is characterized by its quirky humor and emotional depth, both of which are on full display in Hoppers. The script deftly balances the film’s comedic elements with its more serious themes, creating a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Box Office and Critical Reception
Hoppers premiered at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood on February 23, 2026, and officially released nationwide on March 6, 2026. As of this writing, the film has grossed $252,178, according to available data. While early box office numbers are modest, positive word-of-mouth and strong critical reviews suggest the film could have legs. Critics have praised the film’s originality, humor, and heartwarming story. Mark Mothersbaugh composed the score, and SZA contributed the end credits song, “Save the Day,” adding further artistic weight to the project.
What’s Next for Pixar?
With Hoppers, Pixar appears to be signaling a renewed commitment to original storytelling. The studio has several projects in development, including further exploration of the world established in Hoppers, but details remain scarce. The success of Hoppers will likely influence Pixar’s future creative direction, potentially paving the way for more innovative and original animated features. The studio is also continuing to develop sequels to its popular franchises, but the emphasis on originality suggests a desire to recapture the magic that made Pixar a household name.