Go West, Young Adventurers! The Making of 'Buffalo Kids'

New behind-the-scenes clips reveal the vibrant animation and cultural research behind 'Buffalo Kids,' an upcoming family adventure film set in the American West.

DreamWorks Animation has released an exclusive series of new behind-the-scenes featurettes titled "The Making of 'Buffalo Kids'," offering fans a first deep dive into the artistry and cultural research behind the upcoming animated epic. The clips showcase the film's stunning visual style a blend of painterly landscapes and dynamic 3D character animation and detail the extensive collaboration with Native American consultants to authentically portray its 19th-century setting.

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Jorge R. Gutiérrez (The Book of Life), "Buffalo Kids" follows the journey of two spirited siblings from a Great Plains tribe who embark on a perilous quest to save their community after a mysterious threat decimates the buffalo herds. The new footage highlights key action sequences, original voice performances, and the innovative animation techniques used to bring the vast Western vistas and mystical elements to life.

"The film is a love letter to classic adventure stories and the timeless spirit of the West, but told through a fresh, authentic lens," said Gutiérrez in the featurette. "Our team traveled, listened, and worked hand-in-hand with historians and cultural advisors to honor the world we're depicting." The clips also introduce the voice cast, including newcomer actors in the lead roles alongside notable supporting talent.

The release is part of a strategic promotional build-up for the film's scheduled holiday 2026 release. Animation analysts note the footage highlights a deliberate artistic shift towards more culturally specific storytelling within major studio animation, coupled with bold, textured visual design that stands apart from current CG trends.

The "Buffalo Kids" clips are now available on the studio's official social channels and animation forums, generating positive early buzz for its ambitious scope and respectful approach to its subject matter. The film is positioned as a major family tentpole for the studio next year.