Lionsgate and Japanese anime powerhouse Toei Animation have finalized a strategic collaboration that designates Lionsgate as the domestic theatrical distribution partner for Toei’s upcoming feature film productions in the United States. The multi-project pact launches with the 2027 nationwide release of the animated adventure feature Monkey Quest.
Under the terms of the agreement, Lionsgate will manage domestic distribution and marketing for Toei’s studio output and serve as the initial creative partner for prospective international co-productions. Toei Animation is globally recognized as the historic production house behind prominent anime franchises including One Piece, Dragon Ball, and Digimon.
Monkey Quest, previously developed under the working title Hypergalactic, blends 2D and 3D hybrid animation. The story follows an adventurous teenage girl and her younger brother living in a near-future world who set out on a high-stakes journey to locate their missing parents. Along the way, the siblings liberate Okon, an ancient, superpowered protector of Earth, forming an unconventional bond as they confront emerging threats.
The voice cast is led by Auli’i Cravalho (Moana) as the teenage protagonist and Adam Devine (The Righteous Gemstones) as Okon, alongside Academy Award winner J.K. Simmons (Whiplash), Sam Richardson (The Afterparty), Skylar Astin (Pitch Perfect), Anna Chlumsky (Veep), and Jonathan Kite (2 Broke Girls).
The narrative was co-created by Naoto Ohshima, the original character designer of Sonic the Hedgehog, alongside Sola Entertainment founder Joseph Chou. David N. Weiss (Shrek 2) serves as director, with Stephanie Ma Stine (Kung Fu Panda 4) and Takao Noguchi (How to Train Your Dragon) attached as co-directors.
Paris-based sales company Charades is overseeing international theatrical sales for Monkey Quest across all global territories outside of North America.
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