Netflix adds family, tween feature films

Netflix has added to its slate of exclusive feature films with a project from Academy Award-winning filmmaker Chris Williams (Moana, Big Hero 6, Bolt).

Jacob & the Sea Beast tells the story of a charming seafarer who sails into uncharted waters and discovers an unlikely ally in a sea monster.

The CG animated feature film was written by Williams and will mark his solo directorial debut.

“Chris is one of the most talented filmmakers working in animation today and his distinct voice comes through in this touching tale of ancient hunters who struggle to capture a beautiful, mythical sea creature on the high seas.

“His is precisely the kind of grand, adventure-filled story with smart and nuanced characters that we look for in family animated projects at Netflix,” said Melissa Cobb, VP of kids and family at Netflix.

Netflix expects the feature film to be released in 2022. It comes after the company last week announced Tall Girl, a live-action comedy feature film that will be released next year.

The streaming giant is yet to cast the lead in the film, which is about a 16-year-old who must embrace what makes her different and be proud to stand out, not fit in.

It has begun a worldwide casting call for the lead role, which requires someone 5ft 10in or taller and between the ages of 13 and 21.

Tall Girl is directed by Nzingha Stewart (Grey’s Anatomy, A Million Little Things) and written by Sam Wolfson (Andi Mack, Finding Carter).

“At Netflix we are committed to being a platform where tweens can find movies that inspire and empower them. One of the many reasons we’re excited to make Tall Girl is the refreshing way it speaks to this audience with humour and heart about embracing what makes them different and special using height as a framing device,” said Cobb.