The Annecy International Animation Film Festival commenced on June 21st, establishing itself once again as a central hub for the animation world. Featuring submissions from 118 countries, the festival attracts approximately 10,000 industry professionals and representatives from major animation studios. This year’s event showcases films competing for the prestigious Cristal award, alongside a broader celebration of animation as a significant art form. Key films highlighted include “Wildwood,” “Mochy,” and “Des minions et des monstres.” The festival is also focusing on emerging trends, including the impact of artificial intelligence and the continued relevance of stop-motion animation. Marcel Jean, the festival’s artistic director, discussed these trends and the direction of the 2024 edition.