Matt Braly Says Thai-Inspired Animated Film Was Scrapped as “Not Commercial Enough”

Matt Braly says his deeply personal animated feature has been scrapped after more than two years in development, revealing that a major studio decided the film was “not commercial enough to produce.”

In an emotional Instagram post, Braly — best known for creating Disney’s Amphibia and working on Steven Universe — shared that the project he developed with writer Rebecca Sugar will likely never be seen by audiences.

While Braly did not name the studio directly, Sony Pictures Animation announced in 2023 that it was developing a feature with Braly and Sugar.

A Story Close to His Heart

According to Braly, the film centered on a teenage boy who travels to the world of Thai spirits in hopes of curing himself before undergoing a life-altering medical operation necessary to survive.

But the story wasn’t really about finding a cure.

“It was about learning to accept one’s unchangeable circumstances with grace,” Braly explained, “and realizing that a different life than expected can still be a wonderful one.”

The project held special meaning for the animator. Braly shared that he was diagnosed with an incurable chronic illness at a young age — something that permanently changed his life. He said the movie reflected his own journey toward acceptance and resilience.

It also would have brought Thai culture to the forefront of a major animated film — something Braly, who is Thai American, called an honor.

“Not Commercial Enough”

Despite having what Braly described as a supportive development team, the project was ultimately halted.

“The film was judged as not commercial enough to produce,” he wrote. “I understand these decisions are not made lightly and have nothing but respect for the studio.”

Studios often weigh creative vision against financial risk when deciding which projects move forward. Original animated films rooted in specific cultural themes can sometimes be seen as riskier investments compared to established franchises.

A Creative Setback — and a New Resolve

Braly admitted the decision hit him hard.

“I won’t lie — this decision really knocked the wind out of me for a few months and I struggled to find enthusiasm to be creative again,” he shared.

Still, he says time has helped him regain perspective. The experience, he added, has strengthened his resolve about what he wants to pursue next.

Though the film may never reach theaters, Braly posted development artwork online, inviting fans to imagine what could have been.

For now, the project joins a long list of animated features that never made it past development. But for Braly, the message at the heart of the story — accepting life’s unexpected turns — feels more relevant than ever.