Sean Penn's 'Animals in War' Secures North American Distribution

Omnibus Entertainment to release the anthology film about animals impacted by the war in Ukraine.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The anthology film 'Animals in War,' starring Sean Penn and made by Ukrainian filmmakers in response to Russia's invasion, has been picked up by Omnibus Entertainment for North American distribution. The film, which had its world premiere at Tribeca, explores the humanitarian and ecological consequences of war through the eyes of animals and people.

Why it matters

The film provides a unique perspective on the human and environmental toll of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, giving voice to the animals and civilians caught in the crossfire. Its distribution deal with Omnibus Entertainment will bring this important work to North American audiences.

The details

The anthology film 'Animals in War' features seven standalone stories that blend stark realism with poetic imagery to showcase the impact of the war on animals and their caretakers in Ukraine. Created by Ukrainian filmmakers, the film received three Ukrainian Film Critics Awards nominations and had its world premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival.

  • The film had its world premiere at Tribeca in 2026.
  • Omnibus Entertainment acquired the North American distribution rights in February 2026.

The players

Sean Penn

An American actor, director, and producer who stars in the anthology film 'Animals in War.'

Oleg Kokhan

The creator and producer of 'Animals in War,' who said the film 'shows that even when facing real evil, humanity can be preserved.'

Omnibus Entertainment

A label of the New York-based distributor Film Movement, which will release 'Animals in War' on VOD, digital outlets, and home entertainment in North America.

Michael Rosenberg

The president of Film Movement, who said the company is 'honored to bring' 'Animals in War' to North American audiences.

Oleksiy Makukhin

The producer of 'Animals in War' who worked on the distribution deal with Omnibus Entertainment.

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What they’re saying

“The film makes an important statement about how Ukrainians hold onto their humanity, despite all the injustice, violence, and destruction of this horrific Russian invasion.”

— Sean Penn

“These stories inspire all of us, and show how people in the midst of tragedy and terror can bravely persevere while holding onto their compassion.”

— Sean Penn

“Animals have no politics and yet are the target, along with their civilian caretakers, of unrelenting waves of terror.”

— Oleg Kokhan, Creator and Producer of 'Animals in War'

“'Animals in War' offers a strikingly original perspective on the human and environmental cost of this invasion, and we're honored to bring it to North American audiences.”

— Michael Rosenberg, President of Film Movement

What’s next

The film is expected to be released on VOD, digital outlets, and home entertainment in North America through Omnibus Entertainment in the coming months.

The takeaway

By giving voice to the animals and civilians impacted by the war in Ukraine, 'Animals in War' provides a powerful and unique perspective on the human and environmental toll of the ongoing conflict. The film's North American distribution deal with Omnibus Entertainment will bring this important work to a wider audience.