Bong Joon Ho's Animated Feature "Ally": A New Creative Direction

Bong Joon Ho, the acclaimed director known for his Oscar-winning film "Parasite," has announced his debut animated feature titled "Ally." The film, co-written with Jason Yu, has been in development since 2019 and is set to be completed in the first half of 2027, with a worldwide theatrical release planned for the same year. "Ally" follows the journey of a curious piglet squid named Ally, who dreams of reaching the surface of the South Pacific Ocean and becoming the star of a wildlife documentary. Her life takes a dramatic turn when an aircraft crashes into the ocean, propelling her into an extraordinary adventure alongside a group of unlikely companions.

Hollywood Reporter

The production of "Ally" is being managed by Barunson C&C, with financing and distribution handled by CJ ENM, Penture Invest, and Pathé. Producer Seo Woo-sik, who has previously collaborated with Bong on "Mother" and "Okja," is also involved in this project. The film boasts a diverse creative team from 12 countries, including notable talents such as animation supervisor Jae Hyung Kim, who has worked on "Toy Story 4" and "Inside Out," and supervising producer David Lipman from the "Shrek" franchise. DNEG, known for its work on "Inception" and "Dune," is contributing high-end 3D animation.

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"Ally" is described as a family adventure that blends humor and emotional storytelling, exploring themes of bravery, identity, and connection. The film draws inspiration from real marine biology for its creature designs, aiming to create visually stunning underwater worlds. The encounters between Ally and the human world are central to the narrative, reshaping both realms.

IndieWire

Bong Joon Ho has characterized the production process of "Ally" as "a very wild and tough job," reflecting the challenges of transitioning from live-action to animation. He has expressed excitement about this new creative chapter, indicating that "Ally" represents a significant milestone in his career.

Express Tribune

While there has been widespread anticipation for "Ally," some industry observers have noted the challenges inherent in transitioning from live-action to animation, particularly for a filmmaker with Bong's established reputation in the former. Concerns have been raised about whether the film can capture the same depth and nuance that characterize his previous works.

Express Tribune

As "Ally" approaches its completion date, it is expected to be a highlight at upcoming film markets, including the Marché du Film in Cannes. The film's budget is speculated to be around $60 million, potentially making it the most expensive film ever produced in South Korea.

Hollywood Reporter

• “Their official summary reads: “At the heart of the story lies Ally, a curious and endearing piglet squid living in the uncharted depths of the South Pacific Ocean.” — Bong Joon Ho

Hollywood Reporter

Bong Joon Ho's "Ally" marks a bold new venture into animation, promising to blend adventure with emotional depth, and is poised to capture the attention of audiences worldwide upon its release.

Express Tribune