EnglishConvention - D23 2024 : Walt Disney Animation Studios Unveils a Spectacular Lineup of Sequels, New Films, and Iconic Franchises
By Mulder, Anaheim, Convention center, 09 august 2024
Walt Disney Animation Studios captivated audiences at the D23 Expo with a series of thrilling announcements, exclusive previews, and memorable performances that highlighted the studio's ongoing commitment to storytelling excellence. The event, led by Disney's creative luminaries, was a celebration of the studio’s rich legacy and a look into the future of animation, showcasing a blend of beloved sequels and innovative new projects that promise to enchant audiences for years to come.
Moana 2: A Star-Studded Kickoff with Auli‘i Cravalho and Dwayne Johnson
The presentation began with a bang as the audience was treated to an immersive live performance featuring Auli‘i Cravalho, the voice of Moana, alongside dancers and drummers from Nonosina Polynesia. The crowd was swept away by the rhythmic beats and vibrant choreography as Cravalho performed We’re Back, a brand-new song from the highly anticipated Moana 2. The song, written by Grammy®-winning songwriters Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, is just one of several new tracks set to appear in the film, which reunites Moana and Maui for an epic new adventure across the ocean. The excitement only intensified when Dwayne Johnson, the voice of the charismatic demigod Maui, made a surprise appearance. Johnson, known for his larger-than-life presence both on and off the screen, shared his enthusiasm for reprising his role and took the opportunity to unveil the first official trailer and poster for Moana 2. Directed by David Derrick Jr., Jason Hand, and Dana Ledoux Miller, and produced by Christina Chen and Yvett Merino, the film is set to open exclusively in theaters on November 27, 2024. The trailer gave fans a glimpse of the breathtaking animation and the thrilling new challenges awaiting Moana and Maui as they embark on their latest journey.
Zootopia 2: Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde Face Their Toughest Case Yet
Following the spectacular kickoff, the D23 audience was treated to an exciting preview of Zootopia 2, the long-awaited sequel to the 2016 Oscar®-winning hit Zootopia. The film sees the return of the beloved detective duo, Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde, as they tackle a new mystery that threatens to upend the mammal metropolis. This time, Judy and Nick find themselves on the trail of a mysterious reptile whose arrival in Zootopia creates chaos, forcing them to go undercover in unexpected parts of the city where their partnership is tested like never before. Ginnifer Goodwin, who voices the tenacious bunny cop Judy Hopps, delighted fans by taking the stage to share insights into the sequel. She introduced a special preview that included a first look at a new character, a fugitive snake named Gary, voiced by Ke Huy Quan. Jason Bateman returns as the quick-witted fox Nick Wilde, and the cast is joined by Fortune Feimster, who lends her voice to a beaver named Nibbles. Directed and written by Jared Bush, with Yvett Merino producing, Zootopia 2 is slated to hit theaters in November 2025. The presentation also revealed the film’s logo and concept art, showcasing the vibrant and diverse world of Zootopia that fans fell in love with in the first film.
Frozen 3: Jennifer Lee Offers a Glimpse into the Icy Kingdom’s Future
Next, the audience was thrilled by a brief but tantalizing tease of Frozen 3, delivered by none other than Jennifer Lee, the creative visionary behind the Frozen franchise. Lee, who wrote and directed both Frozen and Frozen 2, took the stage to discuss the next chapter in the saga of Elsa, Anna, and the enchanted kingdom of Arendelle. Although specific plot details remain a closely guarded secret, Lee shared concept art that hinted at new adventures and deeper emotional journeys for the beloved characters. The announcement that Frozen 3 will arrive in theaters in 2027 was met with enthusiastic applause from the audience, eager to see where the story will take them next. The Frozen franchise has become a cultural phenomenon, and the third installment promises to continue the tradition of stunning animation, unforgettable music, and powerful storytelling that has made the series a global success.
Avatar: Fire and Ash: James Cameron Reveals the Next Chapter of Pandora
The D23 audience was further electrified by the appearance of legendary filmmaker James Cameron, who took the stage to reveal the title of the next installment in the blockbuster Avatar franchise: Avatar: Fire and Ash. The announcement was met with thunderous applause, as Cameron provided the first details about the film, which continues the epic saga of Pandora and its inhabitants. Cameron was joined by Avatar stars Sam Worthington and Zoe Saldaña, who shared their excitement about returning to their roles as Jake Sully and Neytiri. Avatar: Fire and Ash will delve deeper into the lives of the Sully family as they navigate new challenges and face formidable enemies in their quest to protect their world. The film, produced by 20th Century Studios and Lightstorm Entertainment, features an impressive ensemble cast including Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, Kate Winslet, Cliff Curtis, Oona Chaplin, Jack Champion, Britain Dalton, Trinity Bliss, and Bailey Bass. Set to open exclusively in theaters on December 19, 2025, Avatar: Fire and Ash promises to deliver the breathtaking visuals, groundbreaking technology, and emotional storytelling that have become synonymous with the Avatar franchise.
This year’s D23 Expo, presented by Visa, has been reimagined to offer an even more expansive and immersive experience for Disney fans. Over the course of three days, attendees have been treated to a series of showcases featuring stars, storytellers, and exclusive behind-the-scenes insights into some of Disney’s most beloved franchises. From the latest developments at Walt Disney Animation Studios to exciting new projects from across the Disney universe, D23 2024 has provided fans with a unique opportunity to connect with the magic of Disney in new and exciting ways.
For those unable to attend the Expo in person, Disney has ensured that fans can stay updated on all the latest news and announcements from D23. Fans are encouraged to visit ultimatefanevent.d23.com for real-time updates and to join the conversation online by following DisneyD23 on X, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, using the hashtag #D23 to share their excitement and connect with other Disney enthusiasts.
D23, named in honor of the year 1923 when Walt Disney first established his studio in Hollywood, serves as a bridge between Disney’s storied past and its future. As the company celebrates over 100 years of enchanting audiences around the world, D23 continues to connect fans to the heart of Disney magic through exclusive events, offers, and the latest news from across the Disney universe. As Disney’s first official fan club, D23 provides its members with unparalleled access to the world of Disney, ensuring that they remain at the center of the magic year-round. Through the D23 Expo and other special events, Disney ensures that its most dedicated fans are always the first to experience the latest in Disney storytelling and innovation.
For real-time updates and to follow all the exciting announcements from D23 2024, fans are invited to stay tuned to DisneyD23 on social media and keep the hashtag #D23 handy for the latest news and exclusive content.
(Source: Press Release)