The Digital Burrow: Decoding the Hoppers' Big Game Trailer

The buzz following the Hoppers' Big Game Trailer has reached a fever pitch, signaling Pixar’s return to high-concept, original storytelling.

Premiering during the 2026 Super Bowl, the spot provided a definitive look at Mabel Tanaka, a 19-year-old college student who utilizes "hopping" technology to transfer her consciousness into a hyper-realistic robotic beaver.

Directed by Daniel Chong—of We Bare Bears fame—the film leans into a "bonkers" premise that combines environmental activism with a Mission: Impossible style spy thriller, all wrapped in the studio's signature emotional depth.

What did the Hoppers' Big Game Trailer reveal about the plot?

The latest footage clarifies the stakes of Mabel’s undercover mission. After entering the "body" of a beaver, she must navigate a complex animal society governed by a royal hierarchy, including Bobby Moynihan’s King George.

The primary conflict involves a greedy real estate developer, Mayor Jerry (voiced by Jon Hamm), who intends to destroy the local ecosystem for a lucrative construction project. Mabel's dual life becomes a balancing act between her human responsibilities and her growing loyalty to her new forest family.

Who is joining the star-studded voice cast?

One of the biggest takeaways from the Super Bowl spot was the confirmation of an ensemble cast led by Piper Curda as Mabel.

The trailer also spotlighted Meryl Streep as the Insect Queen, a butterfly who rules the "Animal Council," and Dave Franco as Titus, her spoiled offspring.

This hierarchy suggests a sprawling, organized animal world that Mabel must infiltrate and eventually lead in a counter-offensive against human encroachment.

Why is everyone comparing it to Avatar?

Pixar seems to be leaning into the "beaver Avatar" comparisons rather than shying away. The trailer features a self-aware, humorous tone regarding the "hopping" technology, which allows a human to inhabit a surrogate body to interact with a "primitive" species.

However, the film differentiates itself through its quirky, tactile animation style and a heavy emphasis on comedy, particularly involving Tom the Lizard, a character that has already become a viral sensation online.

Essential Details for Hoppers (2026)

Some Closing Thoughts

The Hoppers' Big Game Trailer has successfully positioned the film as a must-watch original entry in a landscape often dominated by sequels.

By blending a high-stakes environmental message with absurd, character-driven comedy, Pixar is betting on a "beaver-driven" revolution to capture the hearts of audiences this spring.

With its March 6 release date fast approaching, the hype surrounding Mabel's wild transformation is only just beginning.

So, what did you think of Hoppers' Big Game Trailer? Let us know in the comments section down below!