Viva Kids Picks Up ‘Charlie The Wonderdog’ For U.S. Theatrical Release

Viva Kids has acquired the indie CG-animated feature Charlie the Wonderdog for North America and announced a wide theatrical release on January 16, 2026.

Produced by Canada’s Icon Creative Studio, the film follows a family dog, Charlie, who gains superpowers after being abducted by aliens. Pinned against, of course, an evil cat with powers of his own, Charlie learns that true heroism comes from courage, kindness, and heart.

The film is directed by Shea Wageman, who co-wrote the screenplay with Raul Inglis and Steve Ball. Starring Owen Wilson as Charlie, the CG family feature blends humor and adventure with themes of friendship, loyalty, and self-discovery. It also features an original score by Petteri Sainio and new music by Canadian rock legend Bryan Adams, with production design by Geoff Taylor.

“Charlie the Wonderdog is everything we look for in a family film: heart, humor, and a universal message about courage and connection,” said Viva Kids CEO Victor Elizalde. “Owen Wilson brings incredible warmth and wit to Charlie that audiences will instantly fall in love with.”

Icon Creative CEO and writer-director Wageman added, “[Viva’s] marketing innovations, enthusiasm, and wide reach are exactly what Charlie needs to reach family audiences in the theatre and eventually at home.”

Charlie joins an increasingly impressive lineup at Viva Kids, including recent releases such as The Amazing Maurice, Night of the Zoopocalypse, and Hitpig, with The Pout-Pout Fish set to arrive in theaters on March 20, 2026.