Lightstar

Fixed is a 2025 American adult animated comedy directed by Genndy Tartakovsky and co-written with Jon Vitti. Produced by Sony Pictures Animation for Netflix, it is the studio's first traditionally animated feature. The film follows Bull, a dog who, upon learning he is scheduled for neutering, embarks on a journey of self-discovery and adventure with his friends. Along the way, he navigates complex relationships, including a crush on a show dog named Honey, and confronts his own desires and fears before facing his impending surgery.

The development of Fixed began in 2009, initially conceived as an animal road-trip story. The concept evolved significantly when the idea of a dog facing neutering was introduced, adding a unique hook. The film's production involved traditional hand-drawn animation, a deliberate choice by Tartakovsky to enhance the storytelling and aesthetic, drawing inspiration from classic Disney and Looney Tunes animation. The voice cast includes Adam DeVine, Idris Elba, Kathryn Hahn, and others, bringing the canine characters to life. Despite initial distribution plans with Warner Bros., Netflix ultimately acquired the rights, releasing the film in August 2025 after its premiere at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival.

The central narrative of Fixed revolves around Bull, a dog grappling with the imminent reality of neutering. This impending procedure serves as a catalyst for his exploration of primal instincts, friendships, and romantic pursuits. His journey is intertwined with his friends, Rocco, Fetch, and Lucky, each with their own personalities and experiences, particularly concerning their neutered status. The film contrasts Bull's unsterilized state with his friends', highlighting themes of virility, control, and societal expectations within the canine world. Bull's pursuit of Honey, a show dog, introduces elements of romantic rivalry and the complexities of attraction, further complicating his personal crisis.

Director Genndy Tartakovsky opted for a traditional hand-drawn animation style for Fixed, a decision made to better serve the film's narrative and aesthetic goals. This approach marked Sony Pictures Animation's first traditionally animated feature. Tartakovsky drew inspiration from the expressive animation of classic Disney films like 'Lady and the Tramp' and 'One Hundred and One Dalmatians,' as well as the energetic style of Tex Avery and Chuck Jones' 'Looney Tunes' shorts. The animation aimed for a balance between cartoony exaggeration and nuanced character expression, with particular attention paid to depicting the characters' physical and emotional states, even when addressing sensitive subject matter.

The genesis of Fixed dates back to 2009, with its concept evolving over several years before production commenced in 2018. Initially planned for theatrical release by Warner Bros. Pictures, distribution plans shifted due to cost-saving measures by Warner Bros. Discovery. Netflix eventually acquired the distribution rights, leading to the film's premiere at the 2025 Annecy International Animation Film Festival and its subsequent release on the streaming platform in August 2025. The production involved animation studios Renegade Animation and Lightstar Studios, with Scott Wills serving as art director.