Disney's D23 Showcase Unveils New Animated Features, Reveals Major Sequels

At its recent D23 Entertainment Showcase, Disney and Pixar announced two new original features, unveiled early footage and artwork from several sequels, and provided fresh looks at the studios' upcoming releases.

The presentation covered films scheduled through 2029, offering a comprehensive view of the studios' animation slate.

Walt Disney Animation Studios revealed Clay, an original feature directed by Fawn Veerasunthorn, who also helmed Wish and Hexed. The film, scheduled for November 2028, centers on Flip, a reluctant mentor voiced by Kieran Culkin, who is paired with a young ball of clay named Mushy. This mismatched duo embarks on a chaotic and life-changing adventure.

Disney confirmed the development of Zootopia 3, a sequel to the highest-grossing Western animated feature in history. Although no story details or release date were announced, Ginnifer Goodwin and Ke Huy Quan are set to reprise their roles as Judy Hopps and Gary De'Snake, respectively.

Pixar is pushing the animation genre's boundaries with Ghost Market, a supernatural feature set to arrive in spring 2028. The film, directed by Trevor Jimenez and Jesse Andrews, draws inspiration from Asian folklore surrounding ghost markets and festivals for hungry spirits. The story follows Kyle, a young Chicago content creator whose vacation in Hawaii takes a supernatural turn when he discovers a hidden market at the crossroads of the living and the dead.

Frozen 3, scheduled for November 24, 2027, returned to Arendelle with the first footage shown to attendees. The preview confirmed that Anna and Kristoff will marry in the film, with Elsa third-wheeling the festivities. This sets up a new female adversary from a land described as wilder and more dangerous than anything the characters have encountered before.

Pixar's first image from Coco 2 revealed that Miguel is now a teenager, still carrying his guitar and pursuing his ambition of becoming a musician. Scheduled for November 2029, the sequel follows Miguel as he travels to the Land of the Dead to confront Ernesto de la Cruz, who returns seeking revenge. Lee Unkrich and Adrian Molina are returning as directors, with Mark Nielsen producing.

The Incredibles 3 is on the horizon, with the Parr children taking center stage. Concept art shown at D23 featured Violet, Dash, and Jack-Jack, who will supposedly sneak out at night to protect the city while hiding their activities from their parents. In the film, Bob Parr is struggling to find his place now that superheroes are legal again. A powerful new villain and the idea that not every superhero is necessarily heroic will also be explored.

Gatto, scheduled for March 5, 2027, is a new film directed by Enrico Casarosa. The story follows Nero, a black cat living in Venice who is indebted to a feline mob boss. Mark Ruffalo voices Nero, with Laurence Fishburne playing mob boss Rocco. Gatto has received a new still, showing Nero attempting to steal a street performer's valuable violin with the assistance of a flock of birds.

At its recent showcase, Disney and Pixar unveiled a robust slate of films and sequels, offering glimpses into the future of animation.

In conclusion, Disney's D23 Showcase unveiled a wide array of exciting new projects, showcasing both the creativity and diversity that underpin Disney's rich animation legacy.

The studio's continued emphasis on innovative storytelling, memorable characters, and visually stunning animation ensures its animation will remain a beloved and integral part of cinematic culture.