Netflix Snaps Up Genndy Tartakovsky‘s R-Rated Animated Comedy ‘Fixed‘ After Distribution Limbo
LOS ANGELES – After a journey fraught with uncertainty, Genndy Tartakovsky’s adult animated comedy “Fixed” has found a home at netflix and is slated for a global release on Aug.13, 2025, reaching an estimated 300 million households across 190 countries. The film, produced by Sony Pictures Animation, had initially been earmarked for release by New Line Cinema, a division of Warner Bros. Discovery,before rights reverted back to Sony.
“Fixed,” described by Tartakovsky as “kind of a unicorn,” centers around a dog who embarks on a raucous adventure on the eve of his scheduled neutering. The concept, which Tartakovsky equates to ” ’25th Hour’ meets ‘Lady and the Tramp,’ ” garnered enthusiastic reactions at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival. However, its unique blend of 2D animation, an R-rating, and original storytelling presented challenges in securing distribution.
Tartakovsky,known for his work on popular animated series such as “Dexter’s Laboratory” and “Primal,” expressed a desire to see “Fixed” break new ground for adult animation in the U.S..”My number one fight is that I want to have the career that I have in TV, but I want to have it in features, where I have original after original,” he said, citing Hayao Miyazaki as the gold standard. He hopes “Fixed” will “open up the possibility to do more and different material, perhaps R-rated animated films,” and help animation escape the “tight little box” that exists in the West..
The film’s path to Netflix wasn’t straightforward. After Warner Bros. passed on the film, Tartakovsky said he and his team began looking for a partner “for streaming or theatrical” distribution.Initially, Netflix seemed uninterested. “I even offered to rent out a theater myself for three months and pay for it,” Tartakovsky said. “Just give me the rights to the movie and if people start coming to see it and spread word of mouth, great.If not, then I know we had a miss.”
Ultimately,Netflix’s Animation Series team,led by John Derderian,recognized the potential fit for “Fixed” within their adult animation programming,in comparison to the Animation Film team’s focus on family-friendly titles. The acquisition aligns with Netflix’s growing catalog of Sony-produced animated features, including the upcoming “KPop Demon Hunters” and an animated “Ghostbusters” film and series.
The voice cast for “Fixed” includes Adam Devine, idris Elba, Fred Armisen, Kathryn Hahn, and Bobby Moynihan. Tartakovsky hopes audiences will appreciate the “craft” in the hand-drawn animation. “There’s so much craft in it from the backgrounds to the character animation to the designs to everything, it’s a cartoon, which used to be a dirty word in features,” he said.The film’s journey to the screen underscores the challenges faced by independent animated features. While major studios frequently enough prioritize established franchises and family-friendly content,streaming platforms like Netflix offer an option avenue for unique projects.While some industry observers have voiced concerns over Netflix’s algorithm-driven content strategy and its potential impact on artistic originality,Tartakovsky sees the platform as a perfect fit for “Fixed,” stating they “have the opportunity to do things that are different and new,they can take a few more risks.” He added, “they’re the biggest with content and with viewers.For this little movie to then be on the biggest stage is fantastic.”
Tartakovsky is also developing an animated series for Netflix.
FAQ: Genndy Tartakovsky’s “Fixed”
What is “Fixed” about? “Fixed” is an R-rated animated comedy about a dog who goes on a rollicking adventure the day before he is scheduled to be neutered. Think “25th Hour” meets “Lady and the Tramp,” notes Tartakovsky.
When will “Fixed” be released? “Fixed” will premiere on Netflix globally on Aug. 13, 2025.
Who stars in “Fixed?” The voice cast includes Adam devine, Idris Elba, Fred Armisen, Kathryn Hahn, and Bobby Moynihan. Why did it take so long for “Fixed” to be released? The movie had an fascinating production and distribution set-up, where it was technically a Sony Pictures Animation film, but it was to be released by New Line Cinema, a division of Warner Bros. Discovery. However, New Line Cinema had a change of heart and instead of orphaning the movie altogether, the rights reverted to Sony.
Genndy tartakovsky on “Fixed” Landing at Netflix: Breaking Animation Boundaries
Archyde News Editor, Elizabeth miles, recently sat down with the visionary animator Genndy Tartakovsky to discuss the upcoming Netflix release of his R-rated animated comedy, “Fixed.” The film,after a winding road to distribution,promises to be a unique addition to the adult animation landscape. Here’s the exclusive interview.
A Conversation with Genndy Tartakovsky
Elizabeth Miles: Genndy, congratulations on “Fixed” finding its home on Netflix! The journey to get here seemed quite the adventure. Can you tell us a bit about how that process unfolded?
Genndy Tartakovsky: Absolutely, it was a wild ride! Initially, we were set for a theatrical release with New Line Cinema. Then, things shifted. When the rights reverted to Sony, we started exploring options. We knew “Fixed” was a bit of a “unicorn” – an R-rated, hand-drawn animated film with an original story. That made finding the right distributor a challenge. We even considered renting a theater ourselves! Finding Netflix felt like a perfect fit.
Elizabeth Miles: The film is described as a “25th Hour” meets “Lady and the Tramp.” That’s quite a pitch! How did the concept for “fixed” come about?
Genndy Tartakovsky: It’s a story about a dog named “Lucky” on the eve of his neutering. It’s that last night of freedom. The comedy flows from there: his anxieties, the hilarious situations, the raucous adventure. The whole thing’s set in the real world, not a fantasy or far-off place. And all of this made for an R-rating.
Elizabeth Miles: The voice cast is fantastic! How did you assemble Adam Devine, Idris Elba, Kathryn Hahn, and the rest?
Genndy Tartakovsky: We were so lucky to get such talent on board! We looked for actors who could realy capture the personalities of the characters. I wanted them to also be good at that improv comedic sensibility, which is really prevalent in the film.
Elizabeth Miles: With Netflix, you’re hitting a massive global audience. What are your expectations for “Fixed?”
Genndy Tartakovsky: I want it to open up possibilities. Currently, Western animation is in this little box of family-pleasant content. I want to build a bridge. I want to get away from the idea that animation is something that is just for children. with Netflix, we have the chance to do something different and new. And that’s exciting.
Elizabeth Miles: Your work has always pushed boundaries.How does “Fixed” continue that tradition, and why is that vital to you?
Genndy Tartakovsky: For me, the craft of animation is just as important as the story.In this movie’s case, every single element of the movie is by hand – the drawings, the background, the characters, everything! So many people see animation as a dirty word or a lesser way to do things, which is frustrating as it is indeed an incredibly hard way to do it. The entire movie comes down to the smallest little details! I’m hoping this film will add more opportunities for talented creators like myself to pursue a passion.
Elizabeth Miles: what are you most excited for audiences to experience when they watch “Fixed?”
Genndy Tartakovsky: Well, obviously the comedy! But I also hope they appreciate the craft. There’s so much artistry in every frame. From the detailed backgrounds to the vibrant character animation. It’s a cartoon! The kind not meant for kids.
Elizabeth Miles: Netflix seems to be expanding its adult animation offerings. Do you see this as a positive shift for the industry?
Genndy Tartakovsky: Absolutely! The team has a really good understanding of what’s out there. There is the opportunity to create unique original content that’s both edgy and appealing. It’s fantastic that “Fixed” can broadcast to the biggest stage.
Elizabeth Miles: Looking ahead, you’re also developing an animated series for netflix. Can you share any hints about that project?
Genndy Tartakovsky: It’s in early growth, so I can’t reveal too much! But I promise it will be worth watching.
Elizabeth Miles: Genndy, What’s the one thing you want the audience to take away from “Fixed?”
Genndy Tartakovsky: To have fun! No matter how serious or introspective it becomes, the movie’s goal is to make you laugh.it is a comedy!
Elizabeth miles: thank you so much for your time, Genndy.We’re looking forward to august 13th!
Genndy Tartakovsky: Thank you! I can’t wait to share it with everyone.
What are your thoughts?
Are you excited to see “Fixed” on Netflix? What do you think the future holds for R-rated animation? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
