Mexican animators Roy and Arturo Ambriz preview their new film, 'Ballad of the Phoenix,' at the Venice Gap-Financing Market, inspired by epic sagas.
Mexican animators Roy and Arturo Ambriz have officially announced their new project, 'Ballad of the Phoenix,' which they are taking to the Venice Gap-Financing Market running from September 4 to 6. Known for creating Mexico's first-ever stop-motion animated feature, the Ambriz brothers are optimistic that their latest endeavor will resonate with audiences and critics alike. This announcement comes as the duo gears up for another entry into the realm of animated storytelling inspired by Mexican folklore, as reported by Variety.
The film, 'Ballad of the Phoenix,' follows a story that revolves around Virian, a fire-wielding princess. After discovering her father's dark secret of soul-stealing to achieve immortality, she embarks on a journey alongside her spirit guide, Phoenix, to uncover truth through alchemy while mastering her own inner strengths. The Ambriz brothers aim to create a distinctly Mexican cinematic universe that connects emotionally with children and adults alike, as stated in their director's statement to Variety.
This upcoming project serves as a follow-up to the brothers’ acclaimed gothic musical 'I Am Frankelda,' which achieved great success as the third highest-grossing film in Mexico in 2025. The positive reception of their first feature has positioned the Ambriz brothers as emerging leaders in the animation space, establishing a legacy that blends cultural elements and innovative storytelling. They are not only looking to expand their storytelling palette but also to redefine what Mexican animation aesthetics could encompass, pushing societal norms in the animation industry.
In navigating their creative journey, the Ambriz brothers have maintained a mentorship relationship with the renowned filmmaker Guillermo del Toro. He has been a source of guidance since their early days when a Kickstarter campaign for their first short film caught his attention. Roy Ambriz recounted del Toro’s pivotal advice, encouraging them to take bigger risks for their next project rather than settling for less in the wake of their earlier success. This counsel underscores the importance of innovation in their artistic vision, which they aspire to uphold with 'Ballad of the Phoenix.'
The announcements surrounding 'Ballad of the Phoenix' reflect a significant evolution in the Mexican animation landscape, as the Ambriz brothers aim to showcase stories that resonate deeply with Mexican culture while appealing to a global audience. With skills honed through previous successes and a commitment to exploring new aesthetics, their next film represents not just another project but a potential new standard in the industry.
The Ambriz brothers have dedicated over a decade to this film's development, overcoming challenges along the way, including a brief hiatus to work on the stop-motion series 'Frankelda’s Book of Spooks.' Now, their ambition is not just personal fulfillment but also to encourage new filmmakers in Mexico to explore and invest in their narratives.
As 'Ballad of the Phoenix' prepares to make its debut at the Venice Gap-Financing Market, anticipation builds around its potential to influence both local and international animation. The Ambriz brothers aspire for this work to inspire future projects within the Mexican film industry, reflecting their commitment to showcasing the richness of Mexican stories. With a blend of tradition and new artistic visions, the outcome of their continued endeavors may redefine not just their careers but the future of Mexican animation altogether.
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