Ice Age: Continental Drift

After their continent breaks away, Manny the mammoth, Sid the sloth, and Diego the saber tooth tiger set off on a new voyage. They turn a colossal iceberg into a rickety ship and drift toward uncharted waters. On the sea they face peculiar marine life, sudden squalls, and a band of rogue pirates, all while tracing a path toward a world that challenges what they thought possible. Through it all they lean on each other, trading jokes for courage as they figure out how to survive this surprising, sprawling ocean of a frontier. Along the way they meet new allies and dangers that test their spirit yet deepen trust. Their resolve grows as fear gives way to shared wonder together.

Released in 2012, Ice Age Continental Drift was directed by Mike Thurmeier and Steve Martino. It continues the franchise with an original story by Michael Berg, Jason Fuchs, and Cal Brunker, produced by Blue Sky Studios for 20th Century Fox, for a broad audience.

The film grossed about 877 million worldwide, making it one of the most successful animated releases of 2012 and helping keep the Ice Age franchise going strong in theaters worldwide. It performed especially well overseas, fueling merchandise and video interest.

Captain Gutt, a pirate leader, stands out as a memorable antagonist in this installment. The film adds nautical humor and set pieces that broaden the series' palette while inviting audiences to the saga. It helped the franchise stay relevant for families and fans, expanding its world with visuals and humor.

Critics praised the movie for its lively animation and humor while noting it follows familiar Ice Age patterns. The main themes emphasize friendship, family loyalty, and resilience as the trio confront a shifting world, testing their bonds yet reaffirming that together they can face big changes across families worldwide.