Prepare for a delightful collision of worlds! Aardman Animations, the beloved British studio behind the charming Wallace & Gromit films and celebrated for its masterful stop-motion animation techniques, has announced an exciting partnership with The Pokémon Company. The collaboration will result in a brand-new project, set for release in 2027.
The news was unveiled via a captivatingly short YouTube video. The clip features two clay balls, one red and one white, merging to form the instantly recognizable shape of a Poké Ball. The Pokémon and Aardman logos then grace the screen, accompanied by the simple yet powerful statement: “Pokémon x Aardman. Coming in 2027!”
While details are scarce at this stage, the three-year lead-time preceding the release date is particularly noteworthy. This extended timeframe is not surprising, given the meticulous nature of stop-motion animation. A single minute of footage can demand an entire week of dedicated work from skilled animators. Aardman’s renowned commitment to quality and detail makes this extended production schedule perfectly understandable. The studio undoubtedly wants ample time to craft a truly exceptional final product.
Furthermore, the significant advance announcement speaks volumes about the confidence both companies have in this venture. The Pokémon brand’s global popularity practically guarantees critical and commercial success for any project it’s attached to. This collaboration combines Aardman’s artistic prowess with Pokémon’s immense global reach, setting the stage for something truly special.
In an official press release, Taito Okiura, Vice President of Marketing and Media at The Pokémon Company, expressed their enthusiasm, stating: “Aardman are masters of their craft, and we have been blown away by their talent and creativity. What we have been working on together ensures our global Pokémon fans are in for a treat!”
Echoing this excitement, Sean Clarke, Managing Director of Aardman, added: “It’s a huge honor to be working with The Pokémon Company International — we feel sincerely privileged to be trusted with bringing their characters and world to life in a brand-new way. Bringing together Pokémon, the world’s biggest entertainment brand, together with our love of craft, character, and comedic storytelling feels incredibly exciting.”
This isn’t Aardman’s first foray into high-profile collaborations. Earlier this month, the studio revealed its work with Apple on recent animation projects, highlighting their ongoing commitment to pushing creative boundaries and working with leading industry partners. The 2027 Pokémon x Aardman project promises to be a landmark event, combining the magic of stop-motion with the enduring appeal of Pokémon. The anticipation is palpable, and the wait until 2027 is sure to be filled with exciting speculation!
