It’s a bittersweet moment in the entertainment industry as Apple and Skydance Animation have decided to end their partnership. However, amidst the disappointment, there is a glimmer of hope for fans. Apple will be maintaining its collaboration with Skydance Media, with a focus on live-action films and television shows. This split comes after the conclusion of the multi-year deal between the two companies. As a farewell gesture, Skydance Animation will retain control of the upcoming animated fantasy film, Spellbound, directed by Vicky Jenson.
The cast for Spellbound boasts impressive names such as Rachel Zegler, Nicole Kidman, John Lithgow, Nathan Lane, Jenifer Lewis, and Javier Bardem. This epic fantasy tale follows the courageous Princess Ellian, voiced by Zegler, who embarks on a daring adventure to save her family and kingdom. Along the way, she encounters a spell that transforms her loved ones into monsters and threatens to cast darkness over her homeland, Lumbria.
While Skydance Animation searches for a new studio to call home, Apple continues its fruitful partnership with Skydance Media. Some of the exciting projects in the pipeline include Foundation, The Big Door Prize, and a comedy featuring the dynamic duo of Woody Harrelson and Matthew McConaughey, all airing on Apple TV+.
In terms of the specifics of Spellbound, Nicole Kidman lends her voice to the gentle yet precise Queen of Lumbria, Ellsmere. Javier Bardem portrays the boastful but big-hearted King, Solon. Together, they navigate the challenges of parenting Princess Ellian while joining her on her quest to break the spell that has transformed them into monsters. John Lithgow and Jenifer Lewis voice the loyal royal advisors, Minister Bolinar and Minister Nazara Prone. Additionally, Nathan Lane and De Shields portray The Oracles of the Sun and Moon, mythical beings with the power to help Ellian restore her family and bring light back to the kingdom. Fisher takes on the role of Callan, a young nomad aiding Ellian throughout her perilous journey.
Spellbound promises to be an enchanting adventure for audiences, with a screenplay penned by Lauren Hynek, Elizabeth Martin, and Linda Woolverton. The film is produced by John Lasseter, David Ellison, Dana Goldberg, and David Lipman through Skydance Animation. The legendary Alan Menken, an Academy Award winner, is responsible for arranging the original score and songs, with lyrics crafted by Glenn Slater. Chris Montan serves as the executive producer for the music.
While the termination of the Apple and Skydance Animation partnership may leave fans feeling somewhat disheartened, the continuation of their collaboration on live-action films and TV projects hints at exciting content yet to come. As for Skydance Animation, there is great anticipation for their future endeavors and the possibility of finding a studio specializing in animated productions to forge a new creative alliance.
