Disney Just Dropped a Bomb on D23 Expo: Toy Story 5, Incredibles 3, and Moana 2

Disney Just Dropped a Bomb on D23 Expo: Toy Story 5, Incredibles 3, and Moana 2

Disney's D23 Expo was like a magical rollercoaster ride, filled with thrilling announcements, heartwarming reunions, and sneak peeks that left fans gasping for breath (and maybe reaching for their wallets). From the triumphant return of Bob Iger to the electrifying performances of Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and Auli'i Cravalho, the expo was a whirlwind of excitement. And let's not forget the bombshell announcements: "Moana 2," "Toy Story 5," "Incredibles 3" – Disney's clearly not messing around!

D23 Expo Unleashes a Wave of Excitement

The D23 Expo kicked off with a roar, not from a lion on the savanna but from a crowd of over 15,000 Disney fanatics erupting in a standing ovation for the returning CEO, Bob Iger. It was a heartwarming “welcome back” that echoed through the Honda Center, setting the stage for a weekend of magical announcements and sneak peeks. Iger, clearly moved by the reception, reaffirmed Disney’s commitment to its core mission: “The world needs to be entertained, maybe even more so now than ever before, and we take that responsibility seriously.” And boy, did they deliver! The D23 Expo was a testament to Disney’s dedication to providing top-notch entertainment, a promise sealed with a sprinkle of pixie dust and a whole lot of exciting reveals.

Moana 2: A Heartwarming Reunion and a Glimpse into the Future

If the crowd’s roar for Iger was a lion’s, then the one that followed the surprise appearance of Auli’i Cravalho and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson was a whole stampede. The dynamic duo, reprising their roles as Moana and Maui, respectively, jolted the audience with a live performance that transported everyone straight back to the heart of Motunui. Backed by drummers and dancers in vibrant costumes, they belted out a song that had the entire arena swaying. It was a heartwarming reunion that set the stage for the big reveal: “Moana 2” is set to hit theaters on November 27th!

Before treating the audience to an extended sneak peek of the film, Johnson shared a personal touch, revealing that his daughters were in the crowd. “Working on these films has been special to me,” he confessed, his voice thick with emotion. The sneak peek itself was a visual feast, introducing new characters (Moana now has a little sister!) and reuniting us with familiar faces like Pua the pig and the mischievous Kakamora. And let’s not forget the online frenzy that ensued when Disney dropped the film’s first full-length trailer, sending fans into a tizzy of excitement.

But the “Moana” magic didn’t end there. Johnson, ever the busy bee, also announced his involvement in a live-action “Monster Jam” movie. While there were no updates on the live-action “Moana” film, one thing’s for sure: The Rock’s Disney journey is far from over.

The Force is Strong: Star Wars Updates Galore

From the Polynesian islands to a galaxy far, far away, the D23 Expo kept the momentum going with a series of thrilling Star Wars updates. Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni, the masterminds behind “The Mandalorian,” teased their upcoming 2026 film, “The Mandalorian & Grogu.”

“We only started filming recently,” Favreau admitted, “but we felt compelled to put something together for you guys.” And what a “something” it was! A brief clip featuring the titular characters embarking on a “whole new journey” had fans on the edge of their seats, their lightsabers (figuratively, of course) buzzing with anticipation.

Next up was Jude Law, who couldn’t contain his excitement about “Star Wars: Skeleton Crew,” announcing its December 3rd release on Disney+. “I fell in love with ‘Star Wars’ when I was a 10-year-old boy,” he confessed, his eyes sparkling with the same wonder he likely felt all those years ago. The footage he shared, showcasing the show’s coming-of-age narrative, only amplified the anticipation for this new addition to the Star Wars universe.

Disney and Pixar Sequels: A Rollercoaster of Emotions

The D23 Expo wasn’t just about revisiting beloved worlds; it was also about expanding them. Pixar Animation’s Chief Creative Officer, Pete Docter, sent shockwaves through the crowd with the announcement of “The Incredibles 3.” Yes, you read that right. Our favorite superhero family is back for another round of crime-fighting and hilarious family dynamics.

But that wasn’t all. Andrew Stanton, the director behind the first two “Toy Story” films, revealed his return to helm “Toy Story 5.” In this new installment, Woody, Buzz, and the gang will face a battle of epic proportions: toys versus tech. Stanton acknowledged the shift in children’s preferences towards gadgets, setting the stage for a heartwarming and potentially hilarious exploration of the enduring power of classic toys.

Meanwhile, Jennifer Lee, the chief creative officer of Walt Disney Animation Studios, offered a tantalizing glimpse into the future of Arendelle with concept art from “Frozen III.” The image, featuring Anna, Elsa, and Olaf gazing out at a breathtaking landscape with a mysterious creature lurking in the shadows, left fans both intrigued and slightly terrified.

And let’s not forget the updates on James Cameron’s “Avatar” franchise. The director, along with actors Zoe Saldaña and Sam Worthington, reunited on stage to announce the official title of the third installment, “Avatar: The Seed Bearer,” and share concept art showcasing new corners of Pandora. While Cameron admitted the film was too early in production to show any clips, he teased, “The new film is not what you expect, but it’s definitely what you want.”

The surprises kept coming with an exclusive look at “Zootopia 2,” set to hit theaters in November 2025. Ginnifer Goodwin, the voice of Judy Hopps, delighted fans by announcing the addition of Ke Huy Quan to the cast. Quan, known for his roles in “Everything Everywhere All at Once” and “The Goonies,” will be lending his voice to a charming snake character.

From heartwarming reunions to jaw-dropping announcements, the first day of the D23 Expo was a whirlwind of emotions for Disney fans. And with Marvel’s presentation still to come, the excitement was only just beginning.

Marvel’s Cinematic Universe Continues to Expand

Just when you thought the D23 Expo couldn’t get any more hyped, Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige strode onto the stage, ready to unleash a new wave of superhero excitement. But first, a video message from the Merc with a Mouth himself, Ryan Reynolds. With his signature wit, Reynolds thanked the fans for their overwhelming support of the record-breaking “Deadpool & Wolverine,” proving that even in a multiverse of heroes, there’s always room for a little R-rated mayhem.

Feige then welcomed Ryan Coogler, the director behind the groundbreaking “Black Panther” films, to shed light on the upcoming Disney+ series “Ironheart.” Starring Dominique Thorne as the brilliant inventor Riri Williams, the series promises to be a thrilling addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Thorne and her co-star Anthony Ramos graced the stage, introducing a first look at the series that picks up where “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” left off, following Riri’s journey as she navigates the complexities of genius, grief, and superheroism.

And speaking of iconic heroes, Feige couldn’t resist teasing Marvel’s “first family,” the Fantastic Four. A short video clip featuring Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach in their costumes sent the crowd into a frenzy. Filming had just begun in the UK, but Feige promised a retro-styled aesthetic, embracing the 1960s comic book origins of these beloved characters. It was a tantalizing glimpse into a film that has been eagerly anticipated for years, and the D23 audience was eating it up.

The Lion King’s Legacy Lives On: Mufasa’s Origin Story

From superheroes to savannas, the D23 Expo seamlessly transitioned into the world of “The Lion King” with the upcoming live-action prequel, “Mufasa: The Lion King.” Director Barry Jenkins took the stage, promising a film that delves into the untold story of Mufasa’s rise to kingship. And to add an extra layer of magic, he brought out none other than Lin-Manuel Miranda, the musical genius behind “Hamilton,” “Moana,” and “Encanto.”

Miranda, beaming with enthusiasm, shared his excitement about creating original music for the film. The audience was then treated to a heartwarming clip featuring a new song, “I Always Wanted a Brother,” which beautifully captures the early relationship between Mufasa and his brother, Scar. It was a touching moment that reminded everyone of the enduring power of family, even in the animal kingdom.

Classic Tales Reimagined: Snow White and Tron

The D23 Expo continued its journey through beloved stories with a focus on two highly anticipated live-action adaptations: “Snow White” and “Tron: Ares.” Rachel Zegler, the young star who captured hearts in “West Side Story,” and Gal Gadot, the fierce Wonder Woman herself, took the stage to discuss their roles as Snow White and the Evil Queen, respectively. The chemistry between the two was palpable, hinting at a captivating on-screen dynamic.

They shared a sneak peek of the film, showcasing its stunning visuals and hinting at the new songs written by the acclaimed duo Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, known for their work on “La La Land” and “Dear Evan Hansen.” It was a glimpse into a classic tale reimagined for a new generation, promising both nostalgia and innovation.

Meanwhile, the “Tron” franchise got a jolt of energy with the announcement of “Tron: Ares,” directed by Joachim Rønning. While plot details were kept under wraps, the revelation that Nine Inch Nails would be composing the soundtrack sent a wave of excitement through the crowd. It was a bold choice that hinted at a darker, edgier tone for this sci-fi adventure.

Marvel’s Musical Mayhem: Agatha’s Enchanting Return

The D23 Expo saved one last surprise for Marvel fans: a musical performance by Kathryn Hahn, reprising her role as the delightfully wicked Agatha Harkness from “WandaVision.” Hahn, clearly relishing her return to the character, belted out a new song from her upcoming Disney+ series, “Agatha: Coven of Chaos.”

The catchy tune, filled with dark humor and magical mischief, had the audience clapping along. Hahn also took a moment to praise the songwriters, Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, the talented duo behind the earworm “Agatha All Along” and countless other Disney hits. It was a reminder that even in the superhero-filled Marvel Cinematic Universe, there’s always room for a little musical mayhem.

From superhero showdowns to heartwarming reunions and musical enchantments, the second day of the D23 Expo was a testament to the boundless creativity and imagination that Disney and Marvel have to offer. And with more surprises surely in store, fans left the expo buzzing with excitement, eager to see what the future holds for these beloved franchises.

Freaky Friday 2: A Hilarious Family Reunion

Hold onto your body-swapping hats, folks, because the D23 Expo wasn’t just about new adventures; it was also about revisiting some old favorites. Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan, the iconic duo from the 2003 hit “Freaky Friday,” graced the stage, sparking a wave of nostalgia that swept through the arena. Their heartwarming reunion was like a time machine, transporting us back to the hilarious body-swap chaos that ensued when a mother and daughter magically switched places.

Curtis, who’s set to receive the prestigious Disney Legend award, couldn’t help but gush about reuniting with Lohan. “It feels like no time has passed,” she remarked, a sentiment echoed by Lohan. The pair then unveiled the official title for the highly anticipated sequel: “Freakier Friday.” Cue the collective gasp from the audience! They also shared the first images from the film, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the new body-swapping hijinks that await us. It’s safe to say that “Freakier Friday” is shaping up to be a hilarious family reunion that will have us all laughing (and maybe even shedding a tear or two).

Pixar’s Original Stories: Hoppers and Elio

Pixar, the animation powerhouse known for its heartwarming stories and groundbreaking visuals, didn’t disappoint at the D23 Expo. Pete Docter, the studio’s Chief Creative Officer, took the stage to announce a brand-new original film, “Hoppers.” Starring the comedic talents of Bobby Moynihan and Jon Hamm, the film promises to be a delightful blend of humor and heart, showcasing Pixar’s ability to create captivating stories from scratch.

But the Pixar magic didn’t stop there. Docter also shared exclusive footage from the upcoming film “Elio,” a sci-fi adventure about a young boy who finds himself unexpectedly transported across the galaxy and mistaken for Earth’s ambassador. The film’s young star, Yonas Kibreab, joined Docter on stage, radiating an infectious energy that perfectly captured the spirit of the film. He also had a surprise up his sleeve: the announcement of Zoe Saldaña as a leading character, joining a stellar cast that includes America Ferrera and Jameela Jamil. “Elio” is shaping up to be an out-of-this-world adventure that will leave audiences of all ages starry-eyed.

Pixar’s Leap into Series: Dream Productions and Win or Lose

In a move that surprised and delighted fans, Pixar announced its first foray into long-form series. Building on the success of “Inside Out 2,” the studio is developing “Dream Productions,” a show set in the whimsical world of Riley’s mind. The series will explore the hilarious inner workings of the Dream Production team as they create Riley’s nightly dreamscapes. It’s a concept that’s sure to resonate with fans of the original film, offering a deeper dive into the imaginative world of “Inside Out.”

But that’s not all. Pixar also unveiled “Win or Lose,” its first-ever long-form series. This coming-of-age sports comedy follows a middle school softball team in the week leading up to their championship game. Each episode is told from the perspective of a different character, offering a unique and humorous look at the pressures and anxieties of adolescence. “Win or Lose” promises to be a heartwarming and relatable series that captures the essence of growing up, Pixar style.  

A Blend of Nostalgia and Innovation: Disney’s Enduring Appeal

The D23 Expo was a testament to Disney’s ability to strike the perfect balance between nostalgia and innovation. From revisiting beloved classics like “Freaky Friday” to venturing into uncharted territory with new original stories and series, Disney showcased its commitment to captivating audiences of all ages. The enduring magic of Disney lies in its ability to tap into our deepest emotions, spark our imaginations, and transport us to worlds both familiar and fantastical.

Whether it’s through heartwarming reunions, groundbreaking animation, or heartwarming stories, Disney continues to create lasting memories that resonate with generations. The D23 Expo was a celebration of this legacy, a reminder that the magic of Disney is timeless and boundless. It’s a magic that will continue to inspire and entertain for years to come, leaving us all eagerly awaiting the next chapter in this enchanting story.

Disney’s D23 Expo: A Celebration of Creativity and Imagination

The D23 Expo wasn’t just an event; it was an experience, a whirlwind of star-studded moments and unforgettable announcements that left fans reeling. It was like stepping into a real-life Disney movie, where dreams came true and the impossible seemed possible. From surprise appearances by beloved actors to exclusive sneak peeks at upcoming films and series, the expo was a treasure trove of Disney magic. It was a celebration of the company’s rich legacy, a testament to its ability to push boundaries and create stories that resonate with audiences of all ages.

Imagine being in the same room as Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, belting out a “Moana” tune with the same gusto as Maui himself. Or witnessing the heartwarming reunion of Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan, their on-screen chemistry as vibrant as ever. These were the moments that made the D23 Expo truly special, moments that will be etched in the memories of fans for years to come.

The Future of Disney: A World of Endless Possibilities

The D23 Expo wasn’t just about looking back; it was about looking forward, peering into the crystal ball to see what Disney has in store for us. And let me tell you, the future looks bright! From the highly anticipated sequels like “Moana 2,” “Toy Story 5,” and “Incredibles 3” to the groundbreaking new stories like “Elio” and “Hoppers,” Disney is clearly not resting on its laurels. They’re pushing the boundaries of animation, storytelling, and technology, creating a world of endless possibilities for fans.

The expo was a glimpse into this boundless creativity and innovation. It was a reminder that Disney is not just a company; it’s a dream factory, a place where imagination runs wild and anything is possible. And with each new announcement, each sneak peek, the excitement for what’s to come only grew stronger.

Disney’s Impact on Popular Culture: A Legacy of Magic

Disney’s influence on popular culture is undeniable. From Mickey Mouse to Elsa, its characters have become icons, shaping generations and inspiring countless dreams. Disney’s stories have taught us about love, loss, courage, and the importance of following your heart. They’ve transported us to far-off lands, introduced us to unforgettable characters, and left us with songs that stay with us long after the credits roll.

The D23 Expo was a celebration of this legacy, a reminder of the profound impact Disney has had on our lives. It was a chance to reflect on how Disney’s stories and characters have shaped our own narratives, and how they continue to inspire and entertain us today.

The Magic Lives On: Disney’s Enduring Legacy

As the D23 Expo drew to a close, one thing was clear: the magic of Disney lives on. It’s a magic that transcends generations, a magic that sparks joy and wonder in the hearts of young and old alike. It’s a magic that reminds us of the power of storytelling, the importance of dreams, and the enduring legacy of a company that has touched the lives of millions around the world.

From the heartwarming reunions to the groundbreaking announcements, the D23 Expo was a celebration of this magic. It was a reminder that Disney is more than just a brand; it’s a feeling, an experience, a part of our collective consciousness. And as long as there are stories to be told and dreams to be shared, the magic of Disney will continue to shine bright, illuminating our world with its unique blend of creativity, imagination, and pure, unadulterated joy.

PODIJELI