Bong Joon Ho’s Animated Film “Ally” Gets Neon Release for 2027

Neon, the distributor that released Bong Joon Ho’s Oscar-winning “Parasite,” has bought North American rights to his debut animated feature “Ally.” Negotiated by Neon vice-president Sarah Colvin with WME, the deal includes a theatrical launch in North America in 2027. Production is slated to finish in the first half of that year.

Hollywood Reporter

“Parasite” became the first South Korean film to win Best Picture and Best International Feature at Oscars, winning Best Director and Original Screenplay and earning $53 million domestically and $250 million worldwide. Bong’s earlier titles include “Snowpiercer,” “The Host,” “Okja,” and “Mickey 17,” which grossed $133 million globally. “Ally” is his first 3D animated film and his first Neon collaboration since “Parasite.”

Variety Magazine

Financing and distribution are provided by CJ ENM, Penture Invest and Pathé. Deal marks the sixth collaboration between Bong and Neon CEO Tom Quinn. Bong co-wrote the script with Jason Yu. The visual team features animation supervisor Jae Hyung Kim (known for “Toy Story 4”), supervising producer David Lipman (DreamWorks’ “Shrek” franchise) and production designer Marcin Jakubowski. Twelve-country talent; Pathé will distribute in France, Benelux, Switzerland and West Africa, while CJ ENM and Penture Invest cover South Korea, Vietnam, Turkey and Indonesia.

The Wrap

“Parasite” earned $53 million in North America and $250 million worldwide; “Mickey 17” grossed $133 million globally. “Ally” is slated for completion in the first half of 2027 and involves talent from twelve countries.

Variety Magazine

“Ally” is Bong’s first animated feature, giving him a chance at a Best Animated Feature nomination and extending Neon’s record of award-winning releases. The adventure could broaden the market for South Korean animation.

Hollywood Reporter

Sarah Colvin of Neon confirmed the acquisition and said the company will pursue a theatrical release in North America in 2027. Pathé noted its distribution duties in France, Benelux, Switzerland and West Africa, while CJ ENM and Penture Invest will handle Asian territories. Both emphasized the film’s blend of humor, emotion and marine-inspired visuals.

Variety Magazine

• “Inspired by remarkable real-life marine creatures, the film explores themes of friendship and courage, as encounters between humans and the creatures of the deep reshape both worlds.” — Official logline

Neon Picks Up Bong Joon Ho’s Animated Feature ‘Ally’ for NorAm

• “a curious and endearing piglet squid living in the uncharted depths of the South Pacific Ocean. She dreams of one day seeing the sun and becoming the star of a wildlife documentary. But when a mysterious aircraft sinks into the ocean, her peaceful world is suddenly thrown into danger. Alongside her colorful and loyal — yet unlikely — companions, Ally is thrust into an extraordinary journey that will take her all the way to the surface. Inspired by remarkable real-life marine creatures, the film explores themes of friendship and courage, as encounters between humans and the creatures of the deep reshape both worlds,” — Synopsis

The Wrap

• “In the works since 2019, Ally marks Bong’s first foray in 3D animation.” — Production notes

Hollywood Reporter

• “NEON already saw Bong win Best Picture and Best International Feature at the Academy Awards (along with Best Director and Best Original Screenplay); expect them to push “Ally” towards a Best Animated Feature trophy next.” — TheWrap commentary

The Wrap

Neon will present “Ally” at the Cannes Film Market alongside titles such as “Hope,” “The Unknown” and “Fjord.” The Cannes appearance precedes the 2027 North American launch to generate awards-season buzz.

Deadline Hollywood