The Cat in the Hat, a family-friendly animated film based on the world of Dr. Seuss, will hit cinemas in France on December 9, 2026. New information for the French version: Ahmed Sylla will voice the main character, The Cat in the Hat.
The Cat in the Hat
Animated feature | 2026
In theaters: December 9, 2026
Animation, family comedy
Directed by Alessandro Carloni and Erica Rivinoja
Starring Ahmed Sylla as the French voice of The Cat in the Hat
Original voices: Bill Hader, Xochitl Gomez, Giancarlo Esposito
Original title: The Cat in the Hat
Country: United States
The feature marks the first film from Warner Bros. Pictures Animation. Directed by Alessandro Carloni, co-director of Kung Fu Panda 3, and Erica Rivinoja, a writer on Les Trolls, the movie brings one of Dr. Seuss’s best-known characters to the big screen.
In this new adventure, the Top-Hatted Cat works for the I.I.I.I., the Institute That Instigates Imagination and Inspiration. His mission is to bring smiles back to Gabby and Sebastian, a brother and sister who are struggling to adjust to their new life after moving.
Known for stirring up as much chaos as wonder, the character is on a decisive mission: if he fails, he could lose his magical hat. The story sits squarely in a comedic-fantasy animation, with a clear family-centered stake about adapting to change.
The arrival of Ahmed Sylla in the French dubbing gives the film a fresh entry point for the Francophone audience. The actor and comedian lends his voice to the Cheshire Cat, a role originally voiced in the English version by Bill Hader. The original voice cast also includes Xochitl Gomez, Giancarlo Esposito, Quinta Brunson, America Ferrera, Bowen Yang, Matt Berry, Tituss Burgess and Paula Pell.
The Cat in the Hat may appeal to families and children who enjoy vivid, slapstick, imaginative storytelling. The film isn’t aimed at viewers seeking realistic animation or a more serious adventure plot, since its premise hinges on a deliberately exuberant and chaotic character.
An official trailer for the film is now available. It gives a glimpse into the colorful world of this animated adaptation, centered on The Cat in the Hat’s mission alongside Gabby and Sebastian.
To extend the in-theater experience, check out the December movie releases, the family-friendly films to watch now, and our guide to this year’s animated films.
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