Eddie Murphy is returning to animation with M’Tali: The Everlasting Spring, an original fantasy featuring South African actress Ama Qamata (Blood & Water).
The animated coming-of-age adventure centers on Princess Selani (Qamata), a young royal who dreams of exploring the world beyond her kingdom but is uncertain about her future as queen. After a coup forces her into exile, Selani finds refuge in the Forbidden Jungle with a mysterious family guarding the legendary Everlasting Spring, a magical source believed to grant eternal youth. As she confronts her uncle’s ambitions, Selani must discover what truly makes a kingdom worth protecting.
Murphy will voice Vakoro, Selani’s power-hungry uncle and the story’s central villain. The film will incorporate musical elements alongside its fantasy adventure.
The project is particularly notable as Murphy’s first animated feature outside the Shrek franchise and Disney’s 1998 classic Mulan. It also marks the feature screenwriting debut of his daughter, Bria Murphy, who co-wrote the story with Michael Xavier.
Xavier, Bria Murphy, Ray Murphy Jr., Autumn Bailey-Ford and Chris Brew are producing. The team is currently seeking a director, studio and additional production and distribution partners.
M’Tali also marks the second film collaboration between Eddie and Bria Murphy. The younger Murphy previously appeared in films including Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F and The Perfect Match.
Qamata gained international recognition for her portrayal of Puleng Khumalo in Netflix’s South African drama Blood & Water. Her additional credits include Gomora, Fight Like a Girl and Commandos.
Producer Autumn Bailey-Ford emphasized the importance of bringing culturally grounded family stories to audiences, particularly those that showcase young women leading with compassion and curiosity rather than authority.
Bailey-Ford is the founder and CEO of Autumn Bailey Entertainment, which operates in Atlanta and Cape Town. Her production credits include Netflix’s Color Book and Amazon/MGM’s On a Wing and a Prayer. She is also attached to the upcoming Barbershop project, scheduled for 2027.