Warner Bros. Animation recently released the first trailer for their upcoming animated film The Cat in the Hat on July 1, 2025, allowing audiences a glimpse into the colorful and animated world of Dr. Seuss' book.
This is a fully animated version. For the animated version, Bill Hader will voice the Cat. Unlike the live-action version released by Universal Pictures in 2003, Bill Hader and the creative team behind the animated version focus on a playful, story driven, animated version of the familiar Cat.
The Cat works for an organization called I.I.I.I., - the Institute for the Institution of Imagination and Inspiration. The Cat's job is to assist two children, Gabby and Sebastian find joy after departing from their old town. However, there are challenges as the Cat risks losing his magical hat.
The animated film uses a variety of animation styles, especially for real-life, memory, and fantasy, bringing depth to the story and staying true to the fun and whimsical nature of Dr. Seuss. In an interview, Alessandro Carloni (director) and Erica Rivinoja (director) discuss the film as a entertaining story with lots of heart, humor, and imagination-blending.
The first trailer for ‘THE CAT IN THE HAT’ animated movie has been released.
— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) July 1, 2025
In theaters on February 27, 2026. pic.twitter.com/LcFxopflU8
Release Date, Voice Cast, and What Fans Can Expect
The Cat in the Hat will be released in North American theaters and IMAX on February 27, 2026, with international releases starting February 25. The trailer suggests that this version of The Cat in the Hat is more than simply whimsical fun and mischief.
This version is breaking down the big ideas behind creativity, change, and imagination.
The voice cast includes Bill Hader, Quinta Brunson, Bowen Yang, Xochitl Gomez, and Matt Berry, who all have their own unique comedic style. Together they create a lively and dynamic cast of characters.
The film's visual style is also weighty, as the creators employed at least three kinds of animation to represent different pieces of the overall story.
This creative approach allows for visual exploration of the kids’ emotional journey, while keeping the original book's magical appeal intact.
This reboot is sure to engage kids and adults alike, providing a more respectful interpretation of the classic tale, while still taking contemporary turns and inventing modern narratives.
