Pixar Drops First Teaser for ‘Gatto’ — A Cat-Run Underworld in Venice

Pixar has officially introduced its next original animated film, Gatto, a new project set inside a stylized version of Venice, Italy, where cats run their own hidden society. The film was announced by Walt Disney Pictures and Pixar Animation Studios and is planned for theatrical release on March 5, 2027.

Gatto is the 32nd animated feature from Pixar and is directed by Enrico Casarosa, known for his work on Luca. The film is also produced by Andrea Warren, continuing the creative partnership behind that earlier Pixar project.

The story follows a black cat named Nero, who becomes caught up in the dangerous world of a feline crime network. Nero finds himself indebted to a powerful mob boss and is forced into a difficult situation that pushes him into an unexpected friendship and a search for meaning in his life.

Nero has spent years navigating the canals and streets of Venice, a city filled with superstition and mystery. Over time, he begins to question his choices and wonders if he has been living the right life. His situation becomes more complicated when he is tied to Rocco, a feared mob boss who controls parts of the city’s underground world.

The film features a strong voice cast led by Mark Ruffalo as Nero and Laurence Fishburne as Rocco. Other cast members include Ismail Elsene and additional announced roles still listed as to be confirmed.

Pixar has described the film as having a “living painting” visual style, combining hand-painted 2D textures with modern computer-generated animation. This approach is meant to give the film a unique visual identity compared to Pixar’s previous releases, blending traditional artistry with digital techniques.

In early footage shown in the teaser, Nero and Rocco are seen in a comedic interrogation scene that highlights the contrast between the two characters. The teaser also gives a first look at the tone of the film, which mixes humor, tension, and emotional storytelling.

Pixar’s official synopsis describes Nero’s journey as a search for purpose while navigating loyalty and survival in a city that may not always be on his side. His relationship with Rocco plays a central role in the story, shaping his decisions and his future.

The release of Gatto was originally planned for June 2027 but was moved forward to March 5, 2027. According to the studio, the change was made to avoid direct competition with other major animated releases scheduled for the same summer window.

Pixar’s announcement positions Gatto as another original concept in its long list of films, following titles like Toy Story, Up, Inside Out, and Coco. The studio continues to focus on new storytelling ideas alongside its established franchises.

With its Venice setting, animal-led cast, and crime-world storyline, Gatto marks a different direction in tone and style while still keeping Pixar’s focus on character-driven storytelling and emotional themes.

The film will be released exclusively in cinemas worldwide in March 2027, with the teaser already giving audiences their first glimpse into its unusual and visually rich world.

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