The D23 Expo has long been a touchstone for Disney aficionados, a biannual event where the curtains are pulled back to reveal the magic brewing in the depths of one of the world’s most influential entertainment empires. This year, D23 2024 was no exception. The event, held amid much anticipation, delivered a wealth of announcements that not only revisited beloved classics but also hinted at new horizons. In this article, we’ll delve deep into the key announcements, exploring the layers of narrative potential and the emotional resonance that these projects promise.
A New Era of Live-Action: Reawakening Nostalgia
The announcement of live-action adaptations is nothing new for Disney, but the projects revealed at D23 2024 felt like more than just rehashes of past successes—they seemed to carry the weight of nostalgia, infused with modern sensibilities.
Lilo & Stitch, a film that captured the hearts of audiences with its quirky charm and heartfelt message of family, is set to return in a live-action format. The challenge, of course, lies in translating Stitch’s chaotic energy into a more realistic, yet still endearing, form. The first look at the furry little alien suggests that Disney is treading carefully, trying to strike a balance between the animated original and the expectations of a modern audience. The release is slated for summer 2025, and while anticipation is high, there’s a cautious optimism about how this beloved character will resonate in a new medium.
Snow White has been a topic of much discussion, both for its storied history as Disney’s first animated feature and for the controversies that have surrounded its remake. Yet, the teaser unveiled at D23 2024 gave us a glimpse of a world that, while rooted in the 1937 classic, feels distinctly more mature and complex. Rachel Zegler’s portrayal of Snow White alongside Gal Gadot’s menacing Evil Queen promises a dynamic that could breathe new life into the tale. As the film prepares for its March 21, 2025 release, it’s clear that this project is more than just a retelling; it’s an exploration of timeless themes through a contemporary lens.
Animated Legends: Sequels That Seek to Expand Universes
Disney’s animated features have always held a special place in the hearts of viewers, not just as standalone stories but as part of larger, interconnected universes. At D23 2024, the announcement of sequels to some of the studio’s most cherished films underscored this commitment to expanding these worlds in ways that feel both familiar and fresh.
Moana 2 stands out as a key example of this approach. The sequel, set three years after the original, sees Moana and Maui confronting a new threat to Oceania. The trailer, which opened the entertainment showcase, immediately set the tone for what appears to be an epic continuation of Moana’s journey. But more than just a sequel, Moana 2 hints at Moana’s evolving role as Disney’s flagship princess—a leader whose story is far from over. As we anticipate the film’s release on November 27, 2024, there’s a sense that this will be more than just another adventure; it will be a defining moment in the Disney Princess legacy.
Frozen 3* was another major highlight, with its announcement accompanied by tantalizing concept art. Elsa and Anna’s journey is set to continue in 2027, with the potential for a fourth installment already being teased. The pro-shot of the Frozen Broadway musical, slated to debut on Disney+ in 2025, adds another layer to this ever-expanding universe, inviting viewers to experience Arendelle in a new, yet deeply familiar, way.
Meanwhile, Zootopia 2 is gearing up to revisit the dynamic world of Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde. With the addition of Ke Huy Quan as the voice of a new character, Gary the Snake, the sequel is shaping up to be another clever, socially aware exploration of the world we live in—albeit through the lens of anthropomorphic animals. The film’s release on November 26, 2025, is highly anticipated, as it promises to build on the themes of inclusion and justice that made the original so impactful.
Pixar’s Continuing Legacy: New Chapters and Original Stories
Pixar’s contribution to D23 2024 was a mix of the expected and the surprising. The studio, known for its innovative storytelling and emotional depth, is both returning to familiar territories and exploring new narratives.
Incredibles 3 is a project that has been long awaited by fans. With Brad Bird back at the helm, there’s a palpable excitement around what the Parr family’s next adventure will entail. While details remain under wraps, the announcement alone was enough to reignite the enthusiasm that has surrounded this franchise since its inception.
Similarly, Toy Story 5 is poised to tackle the intersection of toys and technology—a timely theme in our increasingly digital world. Directed by Andrew Stanton, the film is set for a summer 2026 release and promises to explore how Woody, Buzz, and the gang adapt to a world where children’s playtime is dominated by screens. This blend of nostalgia and contemporary relevance could make Toy Story 5 a poignant addition to the series.
On the original content front, Pixar introduced Hoppers, an imaginative new film from Daniel Chong, the creator of We Bare Bears. The concept—centering on a young girl who transfers her consciousness into a robot beaver—immediately stands out as both whimsical and thought-provoking. Set for a 2026 release, Hoppers could very well become the next Pixar classic, continuing the studio’s tradition of blending humor with deep, existential questions.
Another intriguing original is Elio, which follows a young boy who inadvertently becomes Earth’s ambassador to an alien civilization. Directed by Adrian Molina, the film, set for release on June 13, 2025, promises to explore themes of identity and belonging, universal yet deeply personal concerns that Pixar has always excelled at portraying.
In the realm of television, Pixar is making significant strides with its first-ever original series, Win or Lose. Debuting on Disney+ on December 6, 2024, the show offers a unique perspective on the lead-up to a championship game, with each episode focusing on a different character’s experience. This narrative approach not only highlights the diversity of experiences within a single event but also reinforces Pixar’s commitment to innovative storytelling.
Marvel and Star Wars: Expanding the Universes
The Marvel and Star Wars franchises have always been at the forefront of Disney’s offerings, and the announcements at D23 2024 reflected their continued evolution.
Marvel Studios’ Ironheart was a significant reveal, with the show set to explore Riri Williams’ journey as she balances life at MIT with the responsibilities of being a superhero. The footage shown at D23 hinted at the complexities of her character, as well as the challenges posed by new villain Parker Robbins, played by Anthony Ramos. As the series prepares for its 2025 debut on Disney+, there’s a sense that Ironheart will be a key piece in the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Daredevil: Born Again was another major Marvel announcement, with the return of Charlie Cox as Matt Murdock generating considerable buzz. The trailer, which also teased the return of Jon Bernthal’s Punisher and Vincent D’Onofrio’s Kingpin, promises a darker, more intense exploration of Hell’s Kitchen. The series is slated to premiere on Disney+ on March 1, 2025, and fans are already speculating about the directions this beloved character’s story could take.
In the Star Wars galaxy, Skeleton Crew emerged as a standout project, with Jude Law taking on the role of Jod Na Nawood, a force user guiding a group of children lost in the galaxy. The trailer revealed a setting heavily inspired by classic Spielberg films, offering a blend of adventure and nostalgia that could make Skeleton Crew a new favorite when it premieres on December 3, 2024.
The final season of Andor also garnered attention, with Diego Luna revealing that the 12-episode arc will cover three years of Cassian Andor’s journey within the Resistance. The return of characters like Orson Krennic and K-2SO adds to the anticipation, as fans prepare for the series’ 2025 release.
But perhaps the most intriguing Star Wars announcement was The Mandalorian & Grogu, a film that will bring the beloved characters of Din Djarin and Grogu to the big screen. The footage shown at D23 hinted at new challenges and familiar settings, with the film set to hit theaters on May 22, 2026. This project, directed by Jon Favreau, promises to be a pivotal moment in the Star Wars saga, blending the intimacy of the series with the grandeur of a feature film.
Other Noteworthy Projects: Revisiting and Reinventing
Beyond the major franchises, Disney also revealed several projects that promise to bring fresh perspectives to both new and familiar stories.
Freakier Friday, the sequel to the 2003 hit Freaky Friday, will see Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis reprising their iconic roles. The film, set to explore a new body-swapping adventure involving Anna and her daughter, is scheduled for a 2025 release. This project has the potential to resonate with a new generation while paying homage to the original’s charm.
Tron: Ares was another exciting announcement, marking the return of Jeff Bridges to the franchise. The film, featuring a soundtrack by Nine Inch Nails, will explore the intersection of technology and humanity, themes that have always been central to the Tron universe. With a release date set for October 10, 2025, Tron: Ares could redefine the franchise for a modern audience.
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s Monster Jam also made waves, with the film inspired by the popular monster truck events currently in production. While details remain scarce, the project promises to bring high-octane excitement to the big screen, a fitting addition to Johnson’s growing portfolio of action-packed roles.
Closing the Show: Mufasa and Avatar 3
The final announcements of D23 2024 brought the event to a close with a blend of nostalgia and forward-looking excitement.
Mufasa: The Lion King, directed by Barry Jenkins, will delve into the early life of Mufasa and his relationship with Scar. The trailer, which showcased a young, orphaned Mufasa navigating a world filled with danger and opportunity, hints at a story that is both epic and deeply personal. The film’s release on December 20, 2024, promises to add new layers to the beloved Lion King narrative.
Finally, James Cameron’s reveal of Avatar: Fire and Ash concluded the showcase with a glimpse into the next chapter of the Avatar saga. Set for release on December 19, 2025, the film will explore the world of the Ash People of the Na’vi, blending rich cultural themes with groundbreaking visuals. The concept art shown at D23 suggested a story steeped in tradition and conflict, continuing Cameron’s legacy of pushing cinematic boundaries.
