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Zoe Saldaña and Sisters Join Animated Feature 'Julián' Ahead of Annecy Premiere

Entertainment4/28/2026
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Zoe Saldaña, her sisters, and their production company Cinestar Pictures have joined the international production team for the animated feature 'Julián'. The film, adapted from a bestselling picture book, will have its world premiere at the Annecy Festival in June. It is the feature directorial debut of Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Louise Bagnall.

Facts First

  • Zoe Saldaña and her sisters join 'Julián' as executive producers through their company Cinestar Pictures.
  • The film will premiere at the Annecy Festival in June, with international sales handled by New Europe Film Sales and U.S. sales by CAA Media Finance.
  • 'Julián' is adapted from a bestselling picture book by Jessica Love, which has sold over 600,000 copies worldwide.
  • The film marks the feature directorial debut of Academy Award-nominated director Louise Bagnall.
  • Animation is being crafted by over 150 artists across studios in Ireland, Luxembourg, Denmark, and Canada.

What Happened

Zoe Saldaña, her sisters Cisely and Mariel Saldaña, and their production company Cinestar Pictures have joined the production of the animated feature 'Julián'. The film is set to have its world premiere at the Annecy Festival in June. Zoe, Cisely, and Mariel Saldaña will serve as executive producers. The film is an adaptation of the picture book 'Julián Is a Mermaid' by Jessica Love, which has sold over 600,000 copies worldwide. It is the feature directorial debut of Louise Bagnall, an Academy Award nominee known for the short 'Late Afternoon'. The film is written by Dominican-American writer Juliany Taveras from Brooklyn.

Why this Matters to You

If you or your family enjoy heartfelt, artistically crafted animated films, 'Julián' may become a new favorite. The involvement of a major star like Zoe Saldaña and her sisters could bring wider attention to the project, potentially making it easier to find in theaters or on streaming platforms. The film's story, about a child exploring identity and dreams, might offer a meaningful and inclusive viewing experience for diverse audiences.

What's Next

The film's world premiere at the Annecy Festival in June is the next major public milestone. Following the festival, sales agents New Europe Film Sales and CAA Media Finance will likely work to secure distribution deals for international and U.S. markets, which could determine when and where audiences will be able to see the film.

Perspectives

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Cinestar Pictures aims to reshape the storytelling landscape by producing "compelling, multicultural stories for a global audience" that reflect the authentic fabric of society.
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Zoe Saldaña praises the film as a "remarkable adaptation" and a "celebration of individuality, imagination and the courage to be exactly who you are."
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The Article characterizes the film as a "joyful, visually rich animated adventure."