Annapurna Interactive, renowned for its award-winning video games, is taking a leap into the world of cinema with the announcement of a movie adaptation for their critically acclaimed game “Stray.” The adaptation is set to be crafted by Annapurna’s animation branch, Annapurna Animation, marking the studio’s foray into the realm of animated films.
“Stray,” the adventurous video game developed by BlueTwelve Studio, first captivated audiences in 2022 with its unique narrative. Players assume the role of a resourceful stray cat equipped with a drone, embarking on a journey to survive in a world dominated by robots and machines.
Robert Baird, an influential figure at Annapurna Animation, revealed this exciting project to Entertainment Weekly. In his interview, Baird emphasized the uniqueness of “Stray” as a game that delves into the core of humanity, despite its complete absence of human characters.
“This is a game that’s all about what makes us human, and there are no humans in it,” Baird explained. “It’s a buddy comedy about a cat and a robot, and there’s such a hilarious dynamic. So, there’s comedy inherent in this, but there’s not one human being in this movie. I think it’s one of the reasons why the game was incredibly popular, that you are seeing the world through the point of view of an adorable cat.”
In a notable stylistic choice, the film adaptation of “Stray” will embrace “hopepunk” aesthetics, focusing on themes of positivity, kindness, and optimism as forms of resistance. Baird expressed his enthusiasm for this narrative concept, stating, “I love that term, hopepunk. I think, if we are going to do this adaptation justice, this is going to be the first and greatest hopepunk movie that’s ever been made.”
This captivating adaptation is part of a growing wave where video game franchises make their way onto the big screen. Notably, Universal’s “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” saw phenomenal success, raking in over a billion dollars worldwide since its April debut. HBO’s “The Last of Us” also generated substantial buzz, securing multiple Emmy nominations, including one in the coveted Outstanding Drama Series category.
The untitled “Stray” film will be helmed by director Nick Bruno, known for his work on Annapurna’s “Nimona,” an adaptation of ND Stevenson’s graphic novel released on Netflix.
In addition to the “Stray” adaptation, Annapurna Animation is poised for a prolific phase of movie production. Key creative positions have been established, and multiple projects are in development. Among the talented filmmakers on board is Nick Bruno, who co-directed “Nimona” and is actively working on an untitled original animated movie. Bruno’s past work suggests a unique blend of heartfelt storytelling and humor.
As the studio continues to evolve and embark on exciting projects, fans and moviegoers can look forward to a vibrant future filled with captivating animated films that promise to leave a lasting impact on audiences worldwide. Stay tuned for more updates on these upcoming cinematic adventures from Annapurna Animation!
WHAT IS STRAY?
“Stray” is a 2022 adventure game where players assume the role of a stray cat navigating a city inhabited by robots and mutants. Guided by a drone companion, B-12, the cat embarks on a mission to return to the surface, using platforming and puzzle-solving skills. The game received positive reviews for its art, narrative, and gameplay, despite mixed opinions on combat. “Stray” was highly anticipated and has won awards at major industry events.
