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Eva Longoria and Nicholas Galitzine have been cast in Wings of Freedom, Studiocanal’s upcoming animated adventure set in a futuristic world where animals become humanity’s last hope. Directed by Laurent Zeitoun (Ballerina) and co-produced by Good Hero, the Paris-based company Zeitoun co-founded, Wings of Freedom weaves timely issues like AI’s rapid evolution and climate change into a high-energy, family-friendly adventure.
Longoria, who recently appeared in Only Murders in the Building, voices Salana, a grounded eagle whose quiet life is upended when she’s called to join a global resistance. Galitzine, known for The Idea of You, plays Pirro, a determined swift and member of the “Animal Air Force,” a coalition of animals defending Earth from a sinister AI known as Eternity. Set in 2340, the story envisions a world where drones have seized control, seeing humanity as the primary threat to the planet. In a bold act of survival, animals rally to fight, presenting the narrative in a unique blend of adventure, resilience, and camaraderie.
Zeitoun explains that Good Hero developed Wings of Freedom to address big themes through relatable, vibrant characters and collaboration with experts from multiple disciplines. The studio worked with scientists, philosophers, and creative minds to imagine a future grounded in today’s trends. Zeitoun’s co-founder Gregory Ouanhon highlights how the film draws on inspiration from 90s adventure films, aiming to echo the timeless appeal and complex characters of movies by directors like Spielberg.
This focus on storytelling comes from Good Hero’s unique background in live-action film, setting them apart from typical animation studios. Both founders bring a deep passion for character-driven narratives, honed by projects like Intouchables and Heartbreaker, which were well-received internationally. Wings of Freedom, produced with a more modest budget than American counterparts, highlights France’s growing presence in animation. Studiocanal plans to handle distribution across territories, including France, the U.K., Germany, and Australia, while presenting the film at the American Film Market for additional partnerships.
The film is scheduled for a 2026 release, aiming to deliver a mix of heart, humor, and adventure that will resonate with audiences worldwide.