Netflix has acquired the global rights to Soy Frankelda (I Am Frankelda), a Spanish-language stop-motion animated feature created by Mexican directors Arturo and Roy Ambriz, planning a worldwide release in 2026. This acquisition highlights Netflix’s continued investment in unique animation projects, particularly those involving the Guillermo del Toro stop motion style.
About the Film and Its Creators
Developed at Cinema Fantasma, a studio based in Mexico City, I Am Frankelda is Mexico’s first full-length stop-motion film. Set in 19th-century Mexico, the story follows Frankelda, a talented writer whose dark, imaginative tales are repeatedly dismissed. Despite forces suppressing her voice, Frankelda remains determined to be heard.
Plot Overview and Key Characters
The narrative explores Frankelda’s journey after being plunged into her subconscious, where the monsters she created take on a life of their own. Guided by Herneval, a prince caught between dreams and nightmares, Frankelda must restore balance before fiction and reality collide. At the same time, Procustes, a sinister writer, alongside his conspirators, aims to seize control. The growing bond between Frankelda and Herneval presents both strength and risk, as she confronts love that defies reality and fights to reclaim her storytelling power amid dark forces threatening her imagination.
Guillermo del Toro’s Involvement and Industry Recognition
Acclaimed filmmaker Guillermo del Toro, known for works such as Pinocchio and Cabinet of Curiosities, provided guidance to the Ambriz brothers on this project, marking a significant moment for Mexican stop-motion animation. Del Toro stated,
“Frankelda is a landmark in Mexican stop motion animation and a true triumph of vision, tenacity and love for the craft.”
In addition to advising on the film, del Toro previously collaborated with Netflix to establish a stop-motion studio in Paris through Gobelins. I Am Frankelda earned a nomination for Best Independent Feature Film at the upcoming 53rd Annie Awards, underscoring its creative significance.
Production Team and Voice Cast
The Ambriz brothers not only wrote and directed but also produced the film, which features voice performances from Mireya Mendoza, Arturo Mercado Jr., and Luis Leonardo Suarez. Ana Coronilla and Bruce Zick were responsible for production design, with Beto Petiches as the animation director. Cinematography was handled by Irene Melis and Fernanda G. Manzur, contributing to the film’s richly crafted visual style.
The Future of Mexican Stop-Motion Animation
With Netflix’s backing, I Am Frankelda is poised to elevate Mexican stop-motion animation on the global stage, blending cultural storytelling with innovative craftsmanship. Its release in 2026 will mark a critical milestone for the medium in Latin America, potentially inspiring more projects within this style and expanding the reach of Mexican cinematic voices.
