At the recent Destination D23 event, Walt Disney Animation Studios announced its next original feature, ** Hexed **, slated for a Thanksgiving Day release on November 25, 2026.([turn0news14]) Positioned between Zootopia 2 (2025) and Frozen 3 (2027), the film follows an awkward teenage boy who discovers that his quirks are actually magic powers—a discovery that draws in his Type-A mother and opens a portal to a secret world of magic.
The film is co-directed by Josie Trinidad (known for story work on Zootopia, Ralph Breaks the Internet) and Jason Hand (head of story on Encanto, co-director of Moana 2), and produced by Roy Conli and Juan Pablo Reyes Lancaster-Jones. Jared Bush, Disney Animation’s Chief Creative Officer, described Hexed as a blend of “comedy, wonder, and emotional resonance,” celebrating uniqueness and family bonds. Concept art and an animated logo suggest a vibrant, visually rich fantasy aesthetic reminiscent of Encanto and Raya and the Last Dragon.
Why This Matters for AVGC & Animation Studios
| Strategic Insight | Industry Implication |
|---|---|
| Original IP Momentum | Hexed marks Disney’s new standalone narrative, signaling ongoing investment in creative originality. |
| Story-Driven Fantasy | Centering on character and family, the film continues the studio’s tradition of emotionally grounded fantasy. |
| Leadership by Proven Talent | With directors experienced in Disney hits, the film ensures a high standard of storytelling and vision. |
| Strategic Release Window | Launching on a major holiday positions Hexed for maximum family audience impact. |
