Several animated sequels continue to draw audiences with new stories and familiar characters, offering varied entertainment options across streaming platforms.

Illumination Entertainment’s upcoming release, "The Super Mario Galaxy Movie," set to stream on Peacock in 2026, follows the success of “The Super Mario Bros. Movie.” Despite mixed critical reception, the original film proved a box-office hit, largely due to its appeal among children. The new installment introduces Rosalina, voiced by Brie Larson, who is the adoptive caretaker of luminous star-shaped creatures known as Lumas and sister to Princess Peach. The plot centers on Rosalina’s kidnapping by Bowser Jr., with his father Bowser returning to full size and renewed villainous ambitions. Princess Peach, alongside Toad, embarks on a galaxy-wide quest to rescue Rosalina, eventually teaming with Mario, Luigi, and Yoshi as they confront Bowser and his son. Directed by Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic, with a script by Matthew Fogel, the film incorporates many references familiar to fans of the video game franchise.

Streaming on Disney+, “Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu,” released in May, expands the “Star Wars” universe with a continuation of the bounty hunter’s story. Pedro Pascal reprises his role as Din Djarin, known as Mando, who remains mostly masked throughout the feature—a creative choice made by director Jon Favreau. Accompanied by the adorable Grogu, the duo navigate a galaxy where ex-Imperial warlords scheme to regain power. Mando is tasked by Colonel Ward, portrayed by Sigourney Weaver, to locate the elusive crime lord Commander Coin. The series combines action with moments of lightheartedness and is aimed at younger viewers familiar with the franchise, though some combat sequences may be intense for children. Favreau co-wrote the screenplay with longtime series collaborators Dave Filoni and Noah Kloor.

Netflix offers “The Angry Birds Movie 2,” a 2019 sequel that continues to explore the uneasy alliance between birds and pigs. Red, voiced by Jason Sudeikis, has embraced his role as hero of Bird Island. Peaceful coexistence is threatened by the arrival of a third island led by Zeta, an icy antagonist voiced by Leslie Jones, who seeks to forcibly transform the tropical paradise. Red and his former adversaries must join forces to confront this new threat. The film’s humor and ensemble voice cast, including Bill Hader, Danny McBride, Peter Dinklage, Josh Gad, and Rachel Bloom, contribute to its appeal. Directed by Thurop Van Orman with a screenplay by Peter Ackerman, Eyal Podell, and Jonathon E. Stewart, the film sets the stage for a third installment planned for release in December.

Also on Peacock, “The Secret Life of Pets 2” (2019) continues exploring the secret adventures of pets in New York City. The story follows Max, voiced by Patton Oswalt in place of Louis C.K., who adjusts to life with his owner’s new baby while contending with anxiety about the child’s safety. The narrative also includes a subplot involving Max’s neighbor Snowball, now a self-styled superhero, and the daring rescue of a baby tiger, alongside Gidget’s quest to retrieve a cherished lost toy. These storylines converge to highlight themes of courage and overcoming fear. Directed by Chris Renaud and Jonathan del Val, with a script by Brian Lynch, the film maintains the lighthearted and adventurous tone of its predecessor.

Together, these animated sequels offer a range of new adventures for audiences fond of established franchises, combining fresh characters and storylines with beloved familiar faces.