Lionsgate has unveiled the official trailer for Goldbeak, a heartwarming animated family comedy set for its direct-to-VOD release in January 2025. Originally titled Eagles & Chickens and debuting in China in 2021, the film follows a little eagle raised by a family of chickens as he embarks on a journey to discover his identity and embrace his destiny.
The Story Behind Goldbeak
Directed by Nigel W. Tierney and Dong Long, Goldbeak tells the touching tale of a young eagle who loses his parents and is adopted by a kind-hearted family of chickens. Despite their love and support, Goldbeak struggles to fit in and find his place in the world. With the help of his brave sister Ratchet, he sets off on an unforgettable adventure to Avian City, where he learns the value of courage, self-discovery, and the true meaning of family.
The story explores themes of identity, belonging, and perseverance, making it a relatable and inspirational tale for kids and parents alike.
The Creative Team and Cast
Goldbeak is a co-production between Liang Zi Film and Tierney Corp Productions. The film is co-directed by first-time feature filmmakers Nigel W. Tierney and Dong Long, with a screenplay written by Robert N. Skir, Jeff Sloniker, and Vivian Yoon.
The English-language voice cast features David Henrie and Rachell “Valkyrae” Hofstetter, bringing life to the characters with their energetic performances. Composer Joff Bush, known for his work on Bluey, crafts a playful and emotive score that complements the film's adventurous spirit.
Release and Reception
While Goldbeak initially premiered in China in 2021, Lionsgate is now giving it a second life with its US release. The film is set to debut on video-on-demand platforms starting January 28, 2025.
The trailer highlights colorful animation and a heartfelt story, though it has drawn comparisons to Angry Birds in tone and style. Critics note that the animation quality may feel rough for some audiences, but the film's intended young viewers will likely enjoy its lighthearted humor and uplifting narrative.
Conclusion: What to Expect from Goldbeak
Goldbeak may not boast cutting-edge animation, but its universal story of finding one's place and fighting for family is sure to strike a chord with audiences. As it soars into homes early next year, families looking for an inspiring and adventurous tale will find much to love in this animated journey.
My Impressions: The concept of Goldbeak is both charming and meaningful, blending themes of family, identity, and adventure in a way that resonates with kids and adults. While the animation may not rival big-budget productions, it's the story that counts in family films like this.
The idea of an eagle raised by chickens adds a playful twist to the classic “misfit finding their place” trope. The inclusion of popular voice talents like Rachell “Valkyrae” Hofstetter could also help draw interest from a broader audience.
Though Goldbeak may not reinvent the genre, it has the potential to become a cozy family favorite for the new year.
Do you think Goldbeak will win over families despite its simple animation? What do you look for most in animated family films—story, visuals, or characters?
