First Look: Kindred Spirits Brings Irish and Choctaw Histories to Life

Kindred Spirits: Tomm Moore & Cartoon Saloon Unveil New Animated Feature

Cartoon Saloon, the acclaimed Irish studio behind The Secret of Kells, Song of the Sea, and Wolfwalkers, has released the first trailer for its upcoming animated feature Kindred Spirits. Directed by Tomm Moore, the film tells the story of an Irish refugee girl and a Choctaw boy who meet in 1847 New York and embark on a journey across America together.

Set against the backdrop of the Great Famine and the Choctaw Nation’s own history of displacement, Kindred Spirits explores themes of resilience, friendship, and cultural connection. The film draws inspiration from the real-life bond between the Irish and Choctaw peoples, who shared solidarity during times of hardship.

The trailer showcases Cartoon Saloon’s signature hand-drawn artistry—lush landscapes, expressive characters, and a visual style steeped in folklore and history. With Moore at the helm, audiences can expect a heartfelt story that blends myth, memory, and human spirit in a way only Cartoon Saloon can deliver.

Kindred Spirits is set to continue the studio’s tradition of deeply emotional storytelling, and the trailer already hints at a film that will resonate across generations.