EXCLUSIVE: The New York International Children’s Film Festival (NYICFF, February 28 – March 15) has scored a coup by locking in a preview of Disney Pixar film Hoppers for its opening night.
Meryl Streep, Ego Nwodim, Dave Franco, Piper Curda, Bobby Moynihan and Jon Hamm are among voice cast for the film, which hits U.S. theaters on March 6. Daniel Chong directs the tale about a teenage animal lover who uses technology to place her consciousness into a robotic beaver in order to uncover mysteries within the animal world.
“We’re so excited to be introducing the unique magic of Pixar artistry, as shaped by Daniel Chong’s distinctive vision and wit, to a fresh generation of film fans,” said NYICFF Director of Programming Maria-Christina Villaseñor about the screening, which is effectively a world premiere. “As we’re known for our world class animation slate, it feels fitting to be kicking things off with this highly anticipated new feature that promises not only to delight, but also asks us to consider how we value and respect each other across creature lines.”
The New York festival will kick off with a pajama party and red carpet earlier in the day. Among the program, is the U.S. premiere of animated film My Life In Versailles, about a recently orphaned 8-year-old who leaves her life in Paris to live with her uncle, a caretaker at the Palace of Versailles. The film’s directors will also be in attendance at the festival for an audience Q&A.
NYICFF will debut short film program Native Stories and show live-action documentary, Remaining Native about college-hopeful track superstar Ku Stevens.