Animated Film Scores 10 Annie Award Nods Across Major Categories
The Netflix animated feature receives recognition in nearly every major category at animation's most prestigious awards ceremony, with nominations spanning technical achievement, creative excellence, and performance.
The animated sensation has captured industry attention with an impressive sweep of Annie Award recognition, earning nominations across nearly every major category. Animation's equivalent to the Academy Awards has acknowledged the film's achievements in storytelling, technical craft, and musical innovation.
Technical Excellence Recognition
Sony Pictures Animation's Netflix production received nods for Outstanding Feature Film, with additional recognition for visual effects work by Sony Pictures Imageworks. The technical team, including Filippo Macari, Nicola Finizio, Simon Lewis, Naoki Kato, and Daniel La Chapelle, earned recognition for their effects work.
Character animation excellence was acknowledged through Ryusuke Furuya's nomination, while Scott Watanabe and Ami Thompson received recognition for character design. The production design category featured nominations for Helen Chen, Dave Bleich, Wendell Dalit, Scott Watanabe, and Celine Kim.
Creative and Performance Categories
Direction honors went to Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, who also received writing recognition alongside Danya Jimenez and Hannah McMechan. Arden Cho earned a voice acting nomination for her portrayal of Rumi.
The film's musical elements received significant recognition, with the music team earning a nomination in the feature music category. Editorial work was also acknowledged through the editorial team's nomination.
Industry Standing
Only one major category eluded the production: Best Storyboarding. Pixar's Elio matched the nomination count with 10 nods, earning storyboarding recognition while missing the music category.
The film's soundtrack has driven much of its global appeal. 'Golden' has dominated music charts, while 'What it Sounds Like' earned recognition as one of 2025's standout tracks. The production continues streaming on Netflix, building on its awards momentum.