Álex de la Iglesia to Direct Adult Animated Feature ‘Ages of Madness’

Spanish filmmaker Álex de la Iglesia, known for his work on The Last Circus and 30 Coins, will make his feature-length animation debut with Ages of Madness: The Howling of the Jinn. The production, set for a 2026 release, is a collaboration between Canary Islands-based 3Doubles Producciones and Sumendi Uhartea. The film is billed as a major 3D adult animation project that adapts the cosmic horror of H.P. Lovecraft for the big screen.

What is the premise of ‘Ages of Madness’?

The film centers on the Necronomicon, the legendary forbidden book featured in H.P. Lovecraft’s literary universe. According to 3Doubles Producciones, the narrative follows the book as it travels through four distinct historical and geographical settings. The story explores the “fragility of human sanity” as characters encounter the book’s contents, which Lovecraft famously described as an account of the “Old Ones”—entities that existed before humanity and are destined to return.

Why is this a shift for Álex de la Iglesia?

While De la Iglesia is best known for live-action cult classics like The Day of the Beast, his background is rooted in illustration. Before he began directing feature films in the early 1990s, he worked as a comic book artist. De la Iglesia stated that animation has “always been there” in his creative process, and this project serves as a reconnection with his early artistic roots. The director noted that he remains eager to tackle new formats, even after a multi-decade career in film.

How does this project impact the Spanish animation industry?

The project signals a growing trend toward mature, high-budget animation in Spain. Darío Sánchez, CEO of 3Doubles Producciones, stated at the Annecy Animation Festival that the film represents a “turning point” for the sector. By applying sophisticated 3D production techniques to Lovecraftian horror, the team aims to position Spanish animation within the global market for adult-oriented genre films. This follows a period of growth for 3Doubles, which previously produced Goya Award-nominated titles like SuperKlaus.

Key Production Facts

• Directors: Álex de la Iglesia.
• Production Studios: 3Doubles Producciones and Sumendi Uhartea.
• Production Start: Late 2026.
• Core Subject: The H.P. Lovecraft universe and the Necronomicon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this Álex de la Iglesia’s first animated work?

While De la Iglesia has worked as a comic artist and has incorporated stylized, fantastical elements into his live-action films, Ages of Madness marks his first time helming an animated feature film.

What makes this film “adult” animation?

The classification refers to the thematic content, specifically the use of cosmic horror and the intense psychological themes associated with Lovecraftian literature, rather than family-friendly animation styles.

When will the film be released?

Production is scheduled to begin in late 2026. A specific theatrical release date has not yet been finalized by the production companies.