Criterion Crowns KPop, Zootopia 2 Climbs Higher & Smiling Friends Signs Off (Ep. 348)

Jim Hill and Drew Taylor kick off this week’s show a little early to accommodate Drew’s Palm Springs getaway, but that doesn’t slow down the animation news. From Netflix making a rare physical media play with KPop Demon Hunters to Zootopia 2 quietly becoming 2025’s biggest domestic hit, there’s a lot to unpack. They also look at Smiling Friends stepping away at its peak, new anime headed to theaters, and a wave of animation-themed events happening coast to coast.

HIGHLIGHTS

• KPop Demon Hunters lands a rare Criterion Collection physical media release after sweeping major awards, signaling a big win for Netflix animation.

• Zootopia 2 becomes 2025’s top domestic release and sees strong demand for its 4K Steelbook on launch day.

• Smiling Friends ends on its own terms, with two final episodes set to air April 12.

• Crunchyroll dates the next That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime movie for May 2026 as Season Four arrives this spring.

• Hulu’s upcoming animated comedy Swap Meet begins development at 20th Television Animation and Sony Pictures Television.

• Don Hahn’s Huz: Drawn to Life spotlights Disney animator Ron Husband and his legacy.

• Dana Terrace premieres The Knights of Guinevere pilot and plans a March panel and gallery event in Alhambra.

• Drawing Magic: Walt Disney Feature Animation Florida opens in Orlando with a March 8 creators panel.

HOSTS

• Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com
• Drew Taylor - IG: @drewtailored | X: @DrewTailored | Website: drewtaylor.work

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SUPPORT

Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia.

PRODUCTION CREDITS

Edited by Dave Grey
Produced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency

SPONSOR

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