‘On the Edge’: ‘Spider-Verse’ and ‘Coco’ Artist Octavio Rodriguez to Helm Bold Animated Feature Celebrating Underdogs and Endangered Species

May 12, 2025: Renowned animation artist Octavio Rodriguez, celebrated for his work on Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, Coco, Incredibles 2, and Ron’s Gone Wrong, is set to make his directorial debut with On the Edge, a daring new animated feature that blends heart, humor, and high-stakes adventure. The film will be showcased at the upcoming Cannes Market, with global sales being handled by Studio 100 Film.

On the Edge centers on Donnie, a cynical yet endearing Cuban solenodon—an obscure and endangered creature—who hatches a bold plan to avoid extinction: by reinventing himself as a panda, the global poster child of conservation. Alongside a ragtag crew of similarly overlooked animals, Donnie’s mission turns into a wild, heist-driven odyssey that explores identity, belonging, and survival.

Slated for release in Q4 2026, the film promises a visually dynamic experience while championing important themes around biodiversity and environmental conservation. Rodriguez aims to elevate the medium with emotional depth and creative storytelling.

“I want this film to push the boundaries of animation so our audience can fall in love with these endangered, quirky misfits,” said Rodriguez. “It’s a story for the underdog—about resilience, survival, and finding where we truly belong.”

The director, who identifies as Afro-Latino, adds a deeply personal layer to the film’s themes: “I’ve always embraced the underdog spirit, and this film reflects that journey. Plus, there’s a thrilling heist and a kidnapping that kicks off Donnie’s transformation, leading to unexpected growth and self-discovery.”

With an irreverent tone, emotionally resonant narrative, and fast-paced action, On the Edge is poised to become a family favorite. The film seeks to challenge traditional portrayals of endangered species by spotlighting lesser-known animals and emphasizing that all creatures—not just the iconic or cuddly—deserve recognition and protection.

The project is a collaborative effort among On The Edge Animation A.I.E., Able & Baker, Monkeys & Dinos, Telegael, Studio 100 International, and the conservation-focused non-profit On the Edge (The Organization). Viva Pictures will handle North American distribution.