Variety Names 10 Animators to Watch for 2026
Variety's annual list highlights ten animators working on major projects such as 'Wildwood' and 'Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse.' The list will debut at SCAD AnimationFest in Atlanta from September 23-25. Honorees include Chloë Aubert, animation director on 'Iron Boy,' which won a special jury prize at Cannes.
The SCAD AnimationFest debut marks a milestone for the franchise, which launched in 2015. The three-day Atlanta event includes tributes to "The Proud Family" on its 25th anniversary and a premiere of DreamWorks' "Forgotten Island," with director Joel Crawford receiving the Creative Impact in Animation Award.
Aubert's "Iron Boy" follows an 11-year-old with a spinal brace on a French farm, using watercolor-style 2D animation to convey physical constraint and emotional release. Her prior credits include "Wolfwalkers" and "The Breadwinner." She advocates for hand-drawn techniques, noting 2D's enduring appeal despite predictions of its decline.
This recognition could elevate the profile of 2D animation at a time when CGI dominates theatrical releases. By spotlighting artists like Aubert, the list may encourage studios to invest in hand-drawn techniques and diverse storytelling. The SCAD partnership could also strengthen ties between education and industry, potentially shaping how emerging animators approach their craft. Audiences may benefit from a wider range of animated films that prioritize emotional expression over technical spectacle.