Poppy Playtime (2026 film)

Poppy Playtime (also known as Poppy Playtime: The Movie) is a 2026 American supernatural horror/computer-animated film directed and written by Tyler Gillett, based on the video game of the same name developed by MOB Games, and with game creators Zachary Preciado, Nola Klop, and Issac Christopherson as producers. It stars Austin Butler, Ralph Fiennes, Zachary Levi, with Emily Blunt and the voices of Benedict Cumberbatch and Tara Strong.

The film entered development in 2023 with Paramount Pictures, DreamWorks Pictures, and Studio71 developing a film adaptation of the video game. It was then in development hell with various directors, screenwriters, and lead cast members attached at various points. Filmmakers Marcus Dunstan, William Eubank, Nia DaCosta and Alex McAulay were initially signed to direct while Austin Butler was cast as Alan Shaw (The Player) in August 2024, Gillett was hired as the director in early 2025, Patrick Warburton was offered the role of Elliot Ludwig but turned it down. Kevin James, Brett Gelman, and Ralph Fiennes were all considered to replace Warburton, with the role eventually going to Fiennes. Filming began in St. Louis from July to November.

Poppy Playtime premiered at South by Southwest in Austin, Texas on March 5, 2026, and was theatrically released by Paramount Pictures, DreamWorks Pictures, and Studio71 on June 24, 2026. The film emerged as a critical and commercial success, receiving positive reviews from critics and grossing $220 million against a budget of $55 million. Poppy Playtime received six Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Supporting Actor for Fiennes.

Cast
Austin Butler as Alan Shaw (The Player)

Ralph Fiennes as Elliot Ludwig

Zachary Levi as Leith Pierre

Emily Blunt as Stella Greyber

Voice Cast
Benedict Cumberbatch as Huggy Wuggy

Tara Strong as Poppy Playtime