Directed by Daniel Chong and produced by Nicole Paradis Grindle, Jumpers is an animated action-comedy from Pixar Studios. Written by Jesse Andrews and Daniel Chong, the film follows Mabel, a teenager experimenting with a technology that allows her to inhabit a robotic animal. The movie is set to hit French theaters on March 4, 2026.
Mabel discovers a scientific device capable of transferring human consciousness into mechanical animals. Transformed into a robotic beaver, she explores a reinvented wilderness and faces unpredictable situations related to her new body. Between adventure and humor, the experience leads her to question the use of technology and its relationship to nature.
The project is in line with Pixar's animated films based on imaginary concepts accessible to all ages. Daniel Chong, already active in television animation, collaborates here with the studio's technical teams to develop a universe populated by mechanical animals and landscapes inspired by real natural environments.
The production features energetic animation that blends fast-paced action comedy with richly detailed natural backgrounds. Mabel’s swift, unpredictable movements as a robotic figure add to the film’s visual dynamism, while the focus on animal behaviors sparks a deeper reflection on identity, adaptation, and the relationship between humans and nature. The tone shifts seamlessly between adventurous sequences, elements of science fiction, and family-friendly humor.
Designed as a coming-of-age story, the film appeals to viewers who enjoy immersive worlds and adventures suitable for all ages. Younger audiences will find a familiar journey of discovery, while adults can explore a lighthearted reflection on scientific innovation and human responsibility toward the environment.
Our Review of Jumpers
In Jumpers, director Daniel Chong delivers a family-friendly animated film built around a refreshingly playful premise: allowing a teenage girl to transfer her consciousness into robotic animals to communicate with wildlife. This sci-fi concept acts as the driving force behind a humorous and environmentally conscious adventure, blending exploration of the animal world with an accessible reflection on the human-nature relationship.
The story follows Mabel, a curious and idealistic teenager who uses this experimental technology to observe animals from the inside. This leads to a series of quirky, often hilarious situations, highlighting the contrast between human awareness and animal behaviors. The film fully taps into this comedic potential by stacking absurd moments and unexpected interactions with the natural world.
One of the film’s strongest points is certainly its tone. Jumpers functions as a gentle ecological parable, raising awareness among young viewers about preserving biodiversity without resorting to preachy messaging. The environmental message feels seamlessly woven into the story and always serves the entertainment, rather than overshadowing it.
The artistic style also greatly contributes to the film’s charm. Bright, lively, and expressive animation showcases lush natural settings and endearing animal characters. The film maintains a high-energy visual style and brisk pacing, making it very accessible for a family audience.
Mabel’s character is another key element driving the story forward. Endearing and sometimes clumsy, she embodies an enthusiastic and determined teenage heroine. Her slightly “messy” personality adds spontaneity, enhancing the film’s humor and overall warmth.
However, despite its inventive premise, Jumpers remains fairly conventional in its structure. It follows a familiar arc found in many children’s animated films: discovery of a technology, coming-of-age adventures, and finally awakening to new responsibilities. While this predictable framework doesn’t detract from the overall enjoyment, it does limit the element of surprise.
The supporting characters also follow familiar archetypes—quirky scientists, animal allies, or caricatured villains—which reinforces the impression of a film rooted firmly in established adventure animation tropes.
Primarily aimed at family audiences, Jumpers appeals to children and young viewers who enjoy lively animation and animal adventures. Kids will find it funny, fast-paced, and easy to follow, while adults can appreciate its ecological message and light humor.
Those seeking a more ambitious or narratively surprising animated film might find Jumpers somewhat lacking. It doesn’t aim to reinvent the genre but focuses on delivering an effective and accessible entertainment experience.
Ultimately, Jumpers stands out as a charming, generous animated film driven by a fun idea and a positive message. It’s a family-friendly spectacle that’s both humorous and enjoyable—a reminder that connecting with nature can be just as engaging through adventure and laughter.
Jumpers
Animated film | Release date: March 4, 2026
Animation, Adventure | Estimated runtime: 1h40
Directed by Daniel Chong | Featuring Piper Curda, Bobby Moynihan, Jon Hamm
Original title: Hoppers
Country: United States
The film offers a family adventure centered on scientific discovery, exploration, and a look at living things.
To extend your theater experience, check out March's new movie releases, family films currently showing, and our selection of animated films of the year.
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