In an unusual move, Disney-Pixar has decided to release three of its films to U.S. theaters for the first time in 2024 in special engagement runs.
The Films
2020’s “Soul,” 2021’s “Luca,” and 2022’s “Turning Red” were originally released to Disney+ instead of theaters due to a variety of reasons.
“Soul” landed on Disney+ due to the pandemic, as it was originally slated for a theatrical run in Christmas 2020. The movie went on to win an Oscar for Best Achievement in Music Written for a Motion Picture (with and original score by Trent Reznor, Atticus Ross and Jon Baptiste
The Italian-set “Luca” could have played theaters as they were largely reopened during summer 2021, but the studio under Disney CEO Bob Chapek’s administration chose not to. It went on to be nominated for a Best Animated Feature Oscar.
“Turning Red” was a movie that also could have stuck to its theatrical release back in March 2022, however, then Disney CEO Bob Chapek pulled it to get Disney+ more subscribers. The movie did receive a limited release overseas where it grossed a little over $20M. It went on to be nominated for a Best Animated Feature Oscar.
When to Watch
“Soul” will open on January 12, with the SparkShort “Burrow” playing before it
“Turning Red” is next and will open on Feb. 9, with the SparkShort “Kitbull” playing before it.
The final film, “Luca,” will open on March 22, with the classic Pixar short “For the Birds” playing before it.
Tickets will go on sale January 2, and Disney says the films will remain on Disney+ during the theater windows.
I’m looking forward to seeing these films on the big screen like they were intended. How about you?
