Rennes National Animation Film Festival 2026: A Hub for the French Animation Industry

The Rennes National Animation Film Festival will return to Rennes, France, from April 7 to April 12, 2026, establishing itself as a key event for the French animation industry. The festival anticipates over 600 professionals and will host 45 thematic meetings.

A Springboard for Creation: Pitches and Development Sessions

The festival provides a platform for discovering emerging talent through pitch sessions. These sessions are designed to foster collaboration and secure funding for new projects.

• April 8: Focus on projects in the concept phase (short films and series).
• April 9: Presentation of projects in advanced development and pre-production in the 360° Auditorium.

Technical Expertise: AI, Unreal Engine, and Stop Motion

Beyond showcasing films, the festival delves into the technical aspects of animation. Workshops and sessions will focus on cutting-edge technologies and techniques.

• Unreal Engine & Software Sessions: Workshops dedicated to Unreal Engine and software like Toon Boom and TVPaint will provide hands-on experience with the latest tools.
• Stop Motion Focus: A special meeting on April 9 will highlight the work of cinematographers Nadine Buss and Simon Filliot.
• Case Studies: Behind-the-scenes looks at productions like Super Fight, Splinter Cell, and the César Award-winning film Arco will be presented.

Networking and Industry Discussions

The festival serves as a forum for discussing the current state and future of the animation industry. Round table discussions will address topics such as literary adaptation, queer representation in animation, and university research.

Thematic Routes and Partnerships

• Stop Motion Focus: In collaboration with Films en Bretagne, a dedicated track will showcase stop motion projects and the role of the Op Director.
• Industry Partnerships: Around ten meetings, including masterclasses and speed dating events, will be held in partnership with organizations like AGrAF, Maison du Film, SACD, SACEM, SNAC, Trégor Cinéma, UNAC, and U2C.
• Adaptation in Animation: AnimFrance, the FJPI, the SPI, and the RECA will host a round table discussion on the growing trend of adapting works into animated films.
• Diffusion/Operation Pathway: Les Intervalles and Les Femmes s’Animent will offer cross-discussions, conferences, and masterclasses on editing.
• Creative Seeds & Software Focus: A partnership with Creative Seeds, Toon Boom, TVPaint, and AUDIENS will feature insights into the production of the César Award-winning film Arco and the Minus series.

Practical Information

The festival program and exhibitor booths (TVPaint, Toon Boom) will be located at 360, TNB, and Cinéma Arvor.

• Dates: April 7 to April 12, 2026
• Location: Rennes, France

Rennes National Animated Film Festival 2026