The Hello Kitty movie is moving forward with some serious directing talent attached. Warner Bros. and New Line Cinema announced that David Derrick Jr. (best known for directing Moana 2) and John Aoshima (Ultraman: Rising) will co-direct the live-action/animated hybrid film based on Sanrio's iconic character. The project will arrive in theaters worldwide on July 21, 2028.

Ramsey Naito will produce alongside Beau Flynn, who's been involved with the project since its announcement in 2019. The film will feature Hello Kitty alongside other Sanrio characters, expanding beyond just the bow-wearing icon fans know best.

The project has had a winding development path. Originally set up with animators Jennifer Coyle and Leo Matsuda, the film went through several creative changes before landing on Derrick Jr. and Aoshima as helmers. Lindsey Beer previously worked on the script, with her company Known Universe listed as executive producer.

This Hello Kitty film arrives as the character continues a media expansion. Amazon Kids+ premiered the 52-episode Hello Kitty: Super Style! 3D animated series in December 2022 across the US, Canada, UK, and Japan, later rolling out to Germany and Asian territories. Meanwhile, Moonbug Entertainment has been working on a crossover series pairing Sanrio characters like Hello Kitty and Cinamoroll with CoComelon properties, set for global distribution in 2026.

Having Derrick Jr. and Aoshima at the helm signals ambition for the theatrical version. Derrick Jr.'s work on the recent Moana sequel shows he can handle high-stakes animation and action, while Aoshima's experience with Ultraman: Rising demonstrates his comfort blending live-action and CG elements. The hybrid format—combining real actors with animation—gives the filmmakers room to create something visually distinct from typical animated features.

With production underway and a 2028 release date set, fans can expect promotional material and casting announcements in the coming months. The filmmakers have almost two years to bring Sanrio's world to life.