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Not a Box: All we know About the new Animated kids Series Reinventing Imagination

Published on June 7, 2025
Written by:
Isha Das
Isha Das
Streaming Staff Writer
Edited by:
Ishita Chatterjee
Ishita Chatterjee
Streaming Staff Editor
Not A Box (Credit- Apple TV+)

Imagination just got its moment in the spotlight! Apple TV+ has unveiled the official trailer for Not a Box, an all-new animated series that dares kids to dream big — one cardboard box at a time. Overflowing with charm and creative spark, the trailer teases a whimsical world where a simple box becomes a rocket, a robot, or even a racetrack. And yes, it all begins with a single, powerful idea: “Anything is possible when you use your imagination.

Based on the beloved, award-winning book by New York Times bestselling author and illustrator Antoinette Portis, Not a Box is more than a show — it's a celebration of wonder and limitless thinking. The trailer captures that energy beautifully, offering a vibrant first look at Riley’s journey through boundless make-believe worlds. From bold animations to delightful surprises, it’s a playful invitation for both kids and parents to unleash their inner creators.

So, what makes this series so special? We’re breaking down everything you need to know — from key voice talents and creative teams to fresh insights from the trailer and beyond. And don’t worry, we’ll keep this page updated with the latest reveals, so you won’t miss a single imaginative twist. Buckle up: this cardboard box is going places!

Release date & Where to Watch

The brand-new animated preschool series Not a Box is set to debut worldwide on Friday, June 13, 2025, with all eight episodes launching on Apple TV+.

Pro Tip

Can’t find Not a Box in your region? Here’s a clever workaround: use a fast VPN like NordVPN to change your virtual location and access the animated show from anywhere. Just connect to a country where it's available, hit play, and enjoy the adventures of Riley without interruptions. Plus, you’ll keep your connection private and secure while streaming!

What is the plot of Not a Box?

Based on the award-winning picture book by New York Times bestselling author and illustrator Antoinette Portis, Not a Box brings the magic of childhood imagination to life. The animated series centers on Riley, a bright-eyed bunny with a boundless creative spirit who transforms a simple cardboard box into portals for endless adventures.

Whether it becomes a spaceship, a submarine, or a castle, Riley’s box is never just a box — it’s a gateway to exciting new worlds, vibrant characters, and fantastical journeys. Along the way, Riley makes new friends and explores the power of creativity, curiosity, and play.

The eight-episode series encourages young viewers and their families to dream big, build worlds, and celebrate the joy of imaginative exploration. It’s a heartfelt invitation to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary, one cardboard box at a time.

Who’s in the Voice cast of Not a Box?

Is There a Trailer for Not a Box?

The trailer for Apple TV+'s upcoming animated preschool series Not a Box introduces young viewers to Riley, a bright-eyed bunny with a boundless imagination. In the trailer, Riley declares, "It's not a box. I just use my imagination and it takes me on the biggest adventures!" This statement sets the tone for a series that transforms ordinary cardboard into extraordinary adventures. 

Throughout the trailer, Riley embarks on various imaginative escapades, turning the simple box into a spaceship soaring through the stars, a submarine diving into the ocean depths, and even a race car zooming down the track. These transformations are accompanied by vibrant animations that bring each adventure to life, capturing the essence of childhood creativity. 

The trailer also highlights the series' emphasis on friendship and exploration. As Riley meets new characters in each imagined world, the narrative underscores themes of curiosity, collaboration, and the joy of discovery. The combination of engaging visuals and heartfelt storytelling promises a series that celebrates the limitless possibilities of a child's imagination. 

Behind the Scenes

Not a Box is produced by Dete Meserve under Silver Creek Falls Entertainment, with Meserve also serving as executive producer. The series is written and co-executive produced by Emmy Award winner Michael Rabb. Animation is handled by Passion Pictures, with Debbie Crosscup and Andrew Ruhemann as executive producers and direction by Siri Melchior. 

Additional executive producers include Harry Lowell (NiteLite Pictures) and Angus Wall and Linda Carlson (Rock Paper Scissors). Kate Robinson—daughter of Sir Ken Robinson and director of the Sir Ken Robinson Foundation—joins the series as the imagination and creativity expert through Apple TV+’s Changemakers initiative. She also co-authored her father’s visionary manifesto, Imagine If… Creating a Future for Us All, which explores how imagination can reshape the world.


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