Brad Bird Explains Moving 'Ray Gunn' to Skydance and Defends Teen-Adult Animation

Brad Bird's new animated feature 'Ray Gunn' is being produced by Skydance Animation and will premiere on Netflix. The film's score is being recorded at London's Abbey Road Studios with a 74-piece orchestra. Bird argued that animated movies aimed at teenagers and adults should not be treated as a controversial choice.
Brad Bird, known for Ratatouille and The Incredibles, is directing Ray Gunn for Skydance Animation. The movie is set to debut on Netflix. Its music is being captured at London's Abbey Road Studios, where Studio One holds a 74-member ensemble featuring strings, woodwinds, and organ.
Bird has said animated features made for teenage and adult audiences ought not to be viewed as a contentious choice. He also explained his decision to bring Ray Gunn to Skydance rather than Pixar, signaling a different studio path for the project.
The film's Netflix release and Bird's stance may influence how studios view teen- and adult-oriented animation. Audiences who feel underserved by family-focused cartoons could see more options, while creators might find it easier to pitch such projects. Industry watchers may debate whether streaming can support these films commercially, potentially shaping future animation slates.