The Whitest Kids U'Know Animated Comedy "Mars" Screening This Month

After over a decade in development, the animated feature is finally landing in theaters.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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After over a decade in development, Mars, the animated feature from comedy troupe The Whitest Kids U'Know, is finally landing in theaters. This release represents a significant moment for crowdfunded animation and the enduring appeal of cult comedy in a streaming-dominated landscape.

Why it matters

The Whitest Kids U'Know built a dedicated following with their boundary-pushing humor on IFC. The completion of Mars is particularly poignant as it stands as the final project involving the late Trevor Moore, adding an emotional weight to its release. The film's grassroots distribution strategy and crowdfunding campaign demonstrate the power of direct fan engagement in bypassing traditional studio gatekeepers.

The details

Mars, initially conceived during The Whitest Kids U'Know's television run, faced numerous hurdles before reaching completion. The project's realization hinged on a successful crowdfunding campaign fueled by their loyal fanbase on Twitch. The theatrical rollout is notable for its grassroots approach, partnering with Synergetic Distribution to launch with special screenings at Alamo Drafthouse locations in eight cities before a wider release.

  • The Whitest Kids U'Know's five-season run on IFC was in the 2000s.
  • The Mars crowdfunding campaign was successful on Twitch.
  • The special screening tour at Alamo Drafthouse locations will take place in February 2026.
  • The wider release of Mars is scheduled for March 13, 2026.
  • The Mars Blu-ray will be released on March 10, 2026.

The players

The Whitest Kids U'Know

A comedy troupe comprised of Trevor Moore, Zach Cregger, Sam Brown, Darren Trumeter and Timmy Williams, known for their boundary-pushing humor and sketches on IFC.

Trevor Moore

A member of The Whitest Kids U'Know who passed away, making Mars his final project with the troupe.

Zach Cregger

A member of The Whitest Kids U'Know who has experienced a surge in mainstream recognition with the success of horror films like Barbarian and Weapons.

Sevan Najarian

The director and producer of the animated feature Mars.

Synergetic Distribution

An independent distributor championing unique and unconventional projects, including the release of Mars.

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What’s next

The Mars Blu-ray, packed with over 9 hours of bonus material, including animatics, deleted scenes, and commentary, will be released on March 10, 2026. The film will also be available to stream on the Darkroom platform starting March 13, 2026.

The takeaway

The journey of Mars from concept to completion over a decade highlights the challenges and rewards of independent animation. The film's crowdfunding success and grassroots distribution strategy demonstrate the power of direct fan engagement in bypassing traditional studio gatekeepers, paving the way for more unconventional and subversive comedy projects to thrive.