The 2026 reboot of Popeye the Sailor Man is a fresh, action-packed, and heartwarming animated adventure that blends classic cartoon charm with modern storytelling. Directed by Genndy Tartakovsky (of Hotel Transylvania fame), the film brings the beloved spinach-powered sailor into a 3D animated world, capturing the spirit of the original while expanding its emotional depth and world-building.
The story begins in the peaceful port town of Sweethaven, where Popeye (voiced by Chris Pratt) returns after years at sea, searching for his long-lost father, Poopdeck Pappy. Upon arriving, Popeye discovers that the town is now under the grip of the greedy and tyrannical Bluto (voiced by David Harbour), who has taken over the local fishing industry and is driving people out of their homes through corporate corruption and brute force.
Popeye reconnects with his old flame, Olive Oyl (voiced by Anya Taylor-Joy), who now runs a struggling orphanage. Olive’s adopted son, Swee’Pea, turns out to hold a mysterious map—hidden in his locket—that could lead to a hidden treasure that Bluto desperately wants. Believing the treasure is the key to ultimate power, Bluto kidnaps Swee’Pea, forcing Popeye to spring into action.
As Popeye fights to rescue Swee’Pea, he confronts his fear of abandonment and the pain of his past. Along the way, he finds the courage to embrace who he is, especially when he finally locates Poopdeck Pappy (voiced by Jeff Bridges), who helps Popeye unlock the true power of the spinach—a secret tied to their family heritage.
The climax is a visually stunning sea battle, where Popeye, powered by a massive dose of spinach, faces off against Bluto in a final brawl atop a sinking pirate ship. Popeye’s raw strength, cleverness, and heart win the day. Sweethaven is freed, Bluto is defeated, and Popeye finally finds peace in knowing he belongs—on land, with Olive and Swee’Pea, his new family.
The film ends with Popeye giving his iconic chuckle and whistling theme, sailing into the sunset, promising more adventures to come.
