By Kayla DeKraker
He’s a pout-pout fish with a pout-pout face, but will he spread the dreary-wearies to your local theater? The beloved children’s book is headed to the big screen.
Viva Films recently acquired THE POUT-POUT FISH movie, which follows Mr. Fish, who believes he is destined to spread “dreary‑wearies” because of his pouty face, until an unexpected friend changes his outlook.
“The Pout-Pout Fish’ has been cherished in classrooms and homes around the world, teaching lessons of friendship, bravery and self-discovery to an entire generation,” Victor Elizalde, CEO of Viva Pictures, said of the acquisition.
He added that “this beloved story to theaters reflects Viva’s commitment to championing iconic IP and delivering bold, franchise-worthy animation. With its educational legacy, global readership, and stunning adaptation for the big screen, THE POUT-POUT FISH is poised to inspire audiences everywhere.”
Related: ‘The Pout-Pout Fish’ Gets Animated Adaptation
The cast includes Emmy winner Nick Offerman, Amy Sedaris, Nina Oyama, Jordin Sparks, Miranda Otto and Remy Hii.
Deborah Diesen wrote the beloved book, which featured illustrations by Dan Hanna.
Jen Besser, publisher and president at Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group, said, “‘The Pout-Pout Fish’ began as a single book and has since grown into a global franchise embraced by readers, educators and families everywhere. The film marks an exciting step in expanding the world of ‘The Pout-Pout Fish’ beyond publishing and onto the big screen.”
Managing director Solveig Langeland of Sola Media added, “From the first draft and designs, THE POUT-POUT FISH had us hooked. We’re thrilled to see buyers worldwide share our love for this unlikely duo — a pouty loner and a high-energy sea dragon.”
She added, “Viva is the perfect partner for a wide U.S. release, and we’re confident they’ll reach the large North American audience that already loves the bestselling book.”
One of the film’s writers, Elise Allen, took to Instagram to share about the upcoming film.
“So excited for #poutpoutfish to come out in March 2026!!! Loved working with @likeaphoton @mimo_studios and @macmillanusa. And with @nickofferman as the lead, I couldn’t be happier even if I were hugging Little Sebastian!” she said in the caption of the post, with people liking and commenting with support.
Last year, Deadline reported that “The Pout-Pout Fish” book franchise “spans more than 40 titles and has sold more than 10 million copies since its release in 2008. The story was named by Time as one of the Ten Best Children’s Books of 2008 and received the Bank Street Award for Best Children’s Book of the Year.”
THE POUT-POUT FISH movie is set to hit theaters March 20, 2026. Stay tuned for further updates.
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