As the major storytelling tycoon celebrated its 100-year anniversary, Disney thrilled CinemaCon attendees with its slate of upcoming projects. From Pixar’s Elemental to Wish’s announced casting, the company showed off everything that prospective audiences can be excited about.
Both co-chairman Alan Bergman and executive vice president and distribution head Tony Chambers took to the stage to celebrate everything that they have worked on for years and how it will all come together for Disney’s 100th birthday. Bergman personally thanked everyone in attendance for supporting their efforts, especially with all that has happened in the past few years. “I know how difficult it’s been over the past few years and it’s great that the business is finally coming back,” he cheered. At the same time, Chambers reminisced about the work Disney has done both before and after the pandemic. To him, the current slate of films is another entry in “a fantastic array of stories for your theaters.”
Set to premiere on June 16, Elemental follows quick-witted fire element Ember (Leah Lewis) as she struggles to find her place in the world while chasing after and connecting with level-headed, watery inspector Wade as he goes to city hall. During a 3D screening, Disney boasted that the film will offer unique, stunning visuals as it explores the joy of celebrating differences. Before this film will be sent off to a wider release, Elemental will premiere first at the Cannes International Film Festival.
Disney also announced its upcoming film Wish, a new animated musical that will be released this holiday season on November 22nd. During this year’s CinemaCon, they previewed an exclusive scene featuring one of its songs, “This Wish.” Wish seeks to explore the origins of the famous wishing star of so many fairy tales through the eyes of Asha (Oscar-winner Ariana DeBose) and her pet goat Valentino (Alan Tudyk). Together, they set out to use the wishing star’s abilities to save their community while being chased by the formidable King Magnifico (Chris Pine).
With so much under its belt, Disney seems to be excited to draw in more audiences as they weave countless stories for people of all ages.