The Cat is officially out of the bag! Warner Bros. Animation has unveiled the first trailer for its animated version of The Cat in the Hat. The film promises fresh laughs, stunning animation, and a whole lot more Things than fans might expect.
A Whole New Seussical Adventure
This time, the Cat isn’t just stirring up trouble for the fun of it—he has a mission! Voiced by Bill Hader, the Cat works for the quirky Institute for the Institution of Imagination and Inspiration, LLC (I.I.I.I.). His goal? To lift the spirits of siblings Gabby and Sebastian, who are adjusting to life in a new town.
True to form, the Cat’s antics remain as over-the-top as ever, but the stakes are higher this time. If he goes too far, he risks losing his magical hat. The trailer hints at a bigger, brighter adventure with plenty of laughs and dazzling worlds.
Directors Alessandro Carloni and Erica Rivinoja bring a fresh vision to the film. Carloni, known for co-directing Kung Fu Panda 3 (2016), and Rivinoja, recognized for her work on South Park and Trolls (2016), combine heartfelt storytelling with sharp humor to reimagine the mischievous Cat’s adventures.
More Than Just Thing 1 and Thing 2
This movie doesn’t stop at the classic duo of Thing 1 and Thing 2. By our count, up to 18 different Things appear in the film! Each brings a unique look and personality, adding even more chaos and color to the Cat’s wild journey.
A Whole New Look
The film’s animation combines a variety of styles to make each world feel distinct. Traditional 3D animation sits alongside vibrant 2.5D scenes, a style popularized by films like Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018) and Puss in Boots: The Last Wish (2022).
This mix of styles captures the imaginative chaos of Dr. Seuss’s world, making every scene pop with visual creativity.
Bye-Bye Live-Action, Hello Animation
For those who didn’t love the 2003 live-action version starring Mike Myers, here’s some excellent news: this movie offers a totally different vibe. Unlike the edgy humor of its predecessor, this Cat in the Hat takes a family-friendly approach. Like Illumination’s animated The Grinch (2018), the film embraces a lighter, more imaginative tone that fits perfectly in an animated format.
Big Names, Big Talent
The voice cast includes a star-studded lineup. Alongside Bill Hader, the film features Quinta Brunson, Bowen Yang, America Ferrera, Xochitl Gomez, Tituss Burgess, Matt Berry, Paula Pell, and Giancarlo Esposito. These talented actors bring new life to both familiar and fresh characters for this newly imagined take on the classic story.
Seuss Fans, Get Hyped
Animated adaptations of Dr. Seuss’s stories have often struck a chord with audiences. Horton Hears a Who! (2008) charmed viewers with its heartfelt themes, while The Lorax (2012) delivered an important environmental message. The Cat in the Hat looks ready to continue that tradition, blending humor, whimsy, and emotion.
From the colorful animation to the expanded cast of Things, this film shapes up to be a major event for family entertainment. The trailer teases an epic adventure that doesn’t just revisit the classic story—it builds a bigger, bolder universe around it.
Mark February 27, 2026, on your calendar, because the Cat is gearing up to make a delightful mess in theaters!
What’s your take on the trailer? Are you excited to see The Cat in the Hat come to life in animated form? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
