Spotlighting 10 Innovative Animators Set to Shine in 2025

In the dynamic world of animation, where creativity meets technology, Variety has unveiled its esteemed list of the '10 Animators to Watch' for 2025. This annual recognition highlights emerging talent who are pushing the boundaries of storytelling and artistic expression in animated films and series. The honorees, selected for their unique contributions to the field, are set to influence the future of animation in significant ways.

This year's class includes notable figures such as Brooke Shay Bradford, a supervising animator on 'The Bad Guys 2,' who emphasizes the importance of emotional storytelling through movement. 'I love the quiet moments,' Bradford stated, underscoring her belief that animation can convey deep emotions without dialogue. Her background in choreography informs her approach, allowing her to create characters that resonate with audiences on a profound level.

Tom Brass, director of Netflix's 'Wolf King,' is also among the chosen animators. His innovative vision aims to redefine fantasy animation, drawing inspiration from both comic books and reality television. 'I wanted every aspect of the show to feel different,' Brass remarked, reflecting his commitment to fresh storytelling and design methodologies.

Another significant figure is Todd Harris, who takes on the role of showrunner and director for Disney+'s 'Eyes of Wakanda.' Harris, who previously worked as a storyboard artist on major films within the Marvel universe, is focused on expanding the narrative depth of the 'Black Panther' franchise. He articulated his goal of blending art and science to craft an immersive experience that reflects the complexities of the Wakandan world.

Meg Park, an art director at Walt Disney Animation Studios, is set to play a pivotal role in 'Zootopia 2,' where she aims to explore new characters and settings. 'I’m always excited by artists who have a unique voice,' Park stated, highlighting her commitment to diversity in animation.

Christina Sotto, the supervising director of 'Batman: Caped Crusader,' brings a unique perspective to the genre, emphasizing character-driven narratives. 'I take inspiration from story- and character-driven video games,' she noted, showing how interactive storytelling influences her approach to animation.

In addition to these leaders, C.J. Sarachene is making waves with 'Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie,' DreamWorks' first hybrid live-action/animation feature. Her experience in blending these mediums is crucial to creating emotionally resonant content for younger audiences.

Alon Winterstein, an animation supervisor at Pixar, is set to lead the visual evolution of 'Hoppers,' a project that challenges traditional animation techniques while retaining emotional depth. 'Simplicity doesn’t mean simple execution,' Winterstein explained, reflecting the intricate balance required in modern animation.

The list also includes Daniel Lim Ti Yan, who is helping to shape the emotional tone of Warner Bros.' upcoming 'Cat in the Hat.' His journey from visual effects to animation exemplifies the diverse pathways into this creative field.

Lastly, Kirill Yeretsky's work on 'Hoops, Hopes & Dreams' showcases the potential of animation to address important social issues. His approach combines historical narratives with artistic expression, aiming to inspire audiences through storytelling.

As the animation industry continues to evolve, these ten animators represent the future of this vibrant art form. Their innovative approaches, rooted in collaboration and a deep understanding of character and emotion, are set to redefine animated storytelling in the coming years. With a commitment to pushing boundaries and fostering diverse voices, the 2025 class of 'Animators to Watch' illustrates the rich tapestry of talent within the animation landscape.