Get ready for an unprecedented gathering of animation geniuses! All five Oscar-nominated animated feature filmmakers are coming together for a live online panel, and you’re invited to join the conversation. But here’s where it gets even more exciting: this isn’t just a one-sided discussion—it includes a live Q&A where you can ask these visionary creators anything. Mark your calendars for February 27, because this is the kind of event that animation enthusiasts, professionals, and curious minds alike won’t want to miss.
Hosted by Italy’s prestigious View Conference, this free, one-hour session will feature a diverse lineup of directors behind this year’s most celebrated animated films. From Ugo Bienvenu’s Arco to Byron Howard’s highly anticipated Zootopia 2, the panel spans a wide range of styles, techniques, and storytelling traditions. Moderated by Animation Magazine editor-in-chief Ramin Zahed, the discussion promises to be as dynamic as the films themselves. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about Hollywood heavyweights—international talent is front and center, showcasing how animation is being pushed beyond traditional boundaries.
But here’s the controversial part: While Hollywood often dominates the animation spotlight, this panel highlights the global voices that are redefining the medium. Does the future of animation lie outside the rigid pipelines of major studios? Or is there still room for innovation within the system? We’ll let you decide.
Scheduled for 9:00 a.m. PST / 6:00 p.m. CET, the event is a precursor to View Conference 2026, taking place October 12–16 in Turin, Italy. Known for its English-language programming and focus on animation, VFX, games, and emerging technologies, View Conference has become a must-attend event for both established and emerging talent. Whether you’re a seasoned professional, a student, or just a fan, this panel offers a rare glimpse into the current state of animation—and where it’s headed.
Registration is free and open to the public. Sign up now and be part of the conversation: Register Here.
What do you think? Is the animation industry better served by global collaboration, or does Hollywood still lead the way? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your perspective!
