Disney, recognized as the most successful film studio to date, has a diverse portfolio ranging from original animated masterpieces to intellectual properties acquired through strategic investments. The pipeline of upcoming Disney movies extends well into 2029 and beyond, capitalizing on the success of live-action adaptations, such as Cruella and Maleficent, as well as animated sensations like Frozen II. As we venture deeper into the 2020s, Disney is set to expand its universe with more installments in the Frozen series, a new Moana film, and two fresh live-action adaptations.
The studio’s strategy includes releasing new titles directly to Disney+, further illustrating its commitment to diverse film distribution. Additionally, Disney is progressively unveiling several films acquired through the purchase of 20th Century Fox, which begs the question: how will this evolution redefine Disney’s cinematic identity? Nonetheless, the upcoming film slate promises a wealth of exciting projects that retain Disney’s signature charm. Here’s an overview of the anticipated Disney films leading up to 2029.
Snow White – March 21, 2025
Directed By Marc Webb
Continuing the trend of reimagining cherished tales, the highly discussed live-action adaptation of Snow White is set for release on March 21, 2025. Starring Rachel Zegler as Snow White and featuring Gal Gadot as the malevolent Queen, this retelling is expected to closely follow the animated classic while modernizing its musical highlights. Marc Webb, known for his dynamic storytelling, directs the project, with the screenplay crafted by Greta Gerwig and Erin Cressida Wilson.
Lilo & Stitch – May 23, 2025
Directed By Dean Fleischer Camp
The much-anticipated live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch is scheduled for May 2025. This version will incorporate CGI to bring Stitch and his extraterrestrial companions to life, while real humans and settings will enrich the narrative. Directed by Dean Fleischer Camp, celebrated for Marcel the Shell with Shoes On, the cast features Maia Kealoha as Lilo alongside other notable actors like Zach Galifianakis and Courtney B. Vance. D23 convention attendees received a sneak peek at Stitch, and early reactions have been largely positive.
ELIO – June 13, 2025
Directed By Adrian Molina
The next Pixar feature following Inside Out 2 is titled ELIO, set to premiere in the summer of 2025. Originally planned for early 2024, this film’s focus is Elio, portrayed by Yonas Kibreab, as he navigates a world filled with cosmic beings who are intrigued by his human appearance. America Ferrera voices his mother in this imaginative adventure directed by Adrian Molina, known for his impactful work on Coco.
Freakier Friday – August 8, 2025
Directed by Nisha Ganatra
Freakier Friday, the sequel to the beloved 2003 film featuring Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis, is on the horizon. Both original stars will reprise their roles in a project directed by Nisha Ganatra, known for her work on The High Note. Details remain sparse, with primarily promotional images surfacing on social media, sparking anticipation among fans.
TRON: Ares – October 10, 2025
Directed By Joachim Rønning
TRON: Ares will mark the third installment of the iconic franchise that began in 1982, returning to theaters after years of speculation and delays. Currently set for an October 2025 release, the movie will see its filming kick off in January 2024. Directed by Joachim Rønning, it promises to reinvigorate the franchise with fresh plotlines and exciting new characters, alongside familiar faces, including Gillian Anderson from X-Files.
Zootopia 2 – November 26, 2025
Directed By Jared Bush & Josie Trinidad
The 2016 hit Zootopia will see a sequel titled Zootopia 2, aiming for a November 26, 2025 release. CEO Bob Iger announced during an investor call that Jared Bush and Josie Trinidad are returning to helm the project. With insights from Jason Bateman about Nick and Judy’s evolving partnership as dynamic police officers, the sequel looks ready to delve deeper into Zootopia’s intricate societal issues, marrying humor and social commentary effectively.
Moana (Live-Action) – July 10, 2026
Directed By Tommy Kail
Announced in April 2023, the live-action retelling of Moana is in the works, set for a July 10, 2026 release. Dwayne Johnson will return as Maui, accompanied by producers Dany Garcia and Hiram Garcia. Notably, Auli’i Cravalho will not reprise her role as Moana; however, she will contribute as an executive producer. Tommy Kail will direct, ensuring the culturally rich story is represented authentically.
Toy Story 5 – June 19, 2026
Director TBD
The beloved Toy Story series will continue with a fifth film, astonishingly announced in 2023 after the emotional closure provided in Toy Story 4. The film is scheduled for release on June 19, 2026, with iconic voices Tom Hanks and Tim Allen confirmed to return. However, details regarding the film’s direction remain undisclosed, heightening fan curiosity.
Frozen 3 – November 27, 2026
Directed By Chris Buck
While still in the planning stages, Frozen 3 is confirmed for a debut sometime in 2027. Plot specifics are yet to be revealed, but fans eagerly await exploration of unanswered questions that arose from the previous installments, with returning screenwriter Jennifer Lee expected to provide depth and continuity.
Disney’s Upcoming Marvel Movies
With decades of strategic acquisitions leading to the unparalleled success of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Disney continues to evolve its film slate. The MCU, originating from the iconic Iron Man in 2008, has firmly established its phases, with comprehensive plans for Phases 4, 5, and 6, boasting high-profile releases slated between 2024 and 2026 alongside prominent Disney+ series.
Upcoming MCU Movies (2024 – 2027) |
|
---|---|
Movie Title |
Release Date |
Captain America: Brave New World |
February 14, 2025 |
Thunderbolts |
May 2, 2025 |
The Fantastic Four: First Steps |
July 25, 2025 |
Avengers: Doomsday |
May 1, 2026 |
Avengers: Secret Wars |
May 7, 2027 |
Blade |
TBA |
The recent SAG-AFTRA strike has significantly impacted the Marvel release schedule, narrowing it for 2024. Upcoming titles will kick off with Deadpool & Wolverine, setting the stage for Phase 5’s revival. Following that, Captain America: Brave New World Order will premiere on February 14, 2025, featuring the return of Sebastian Stan’s Bucky Barnes in the ensemble film Thunderbolts, due May 2, 2025.
As Phase 6 begins, attention shifts to The Fantastic Four: First Steps, heralding the introduction of Marvel’s “first family”into an alternative 1960s dimension. This phase will culminate in two highly anticipated Avengers films, the first since Avengers: Endgame.
In light of Jonathan Majors’ departure as Kang, the franchise is undergoing a reshuffle, with plans announced for Avengers: Doomsday, featuring Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom, set for May 1, 2026, followed by Avengers: Secret Wars on May 7, 2027.
Disney’s Upcoming Star Wars Movies
Although the future of the Star Wars franchise appears uncertain in theater releases, Disney continues to focus on expanding its narrative through Disney+ series. Upcoming calendar dates have been confirmed for new Star Wars films, aiming to alternate with the Avatar franchise’s December releases. Initially, Rogue Squadron, directed by Patty Jenkins, was meant to launch this endeavor but has since been removed from the schedule.
The following Star Wars projects are currently in development:
Upcoming Star Wars Movie (2024 – 2027) |
|
---|---|
Movie Title |
Release Date |
The Mandalorian & Grogu |
May 22, 2026 |
Star Wars: New Jedi Order |
TBD |
Star Wars: Dawn of the Jedi |
TBD |
country |
TBD |
Untitled Star Wars Movie Directed By Shawn Levy |
TBD |
Untitled Star Wars Movie Directed By Rian Johnson |
TBD |
Untitled Star Wars Movie Directed By Taika Waititi |
TBD |
With a talented roster of creators, including Dave Filoni and Taika Waititi, in development for various upcoming projects, the exact timelines for their release remain uncertain.
Disney’s Upcoming 20th Century Fox Movies
Following Disney’s acquisition of 20th Century Fox in 2019, now known as 20th Century Studios, numerous projects that had been shelved or delayed are set to move forward. While some renowned franchises are rumored to receive reboots or continuations, specific details remain elusive. The blending of brands under Disney’s umbrella creates a complex perspective on which projects qualify as “Disney movies,” especially with properties like Avatar and Prey being seamlessly integrated.
Notably, Marvel properties previously owned by Fox have become valuable assets for the MCU. Deadpool & Wolverine not only serves as a goodbye to the former Fox cinematic universe but also introduces beloved characters from the past, signaling a transition to the newer MCU direction.
The Amateur – April 11, 2025
Directed By James Hawes
The Amateur, set for an April 11, 2025 release, deviates from the sequels dominating the lineup, offering a dramatic spy-thriller adapted from Robert Littell’s novel. This intense narrative follows a CIA cryptographer, portrayed by Rami Malek, on a quest for vengeance after a terrorist attack claims his wife’s life. Directed by James Hawes, the film also stars Rachel Brosnahan and Caitriona Balfe, contributing to an intriguing ensemble.
Predator: Badlands – November 7, 2025
Directed By Dan Trachtenberg
The enduring Predator franchise continues its legacy with Predator: Badlands, scheduled for November 7, 2025. Following the success of the acclaimed prequel Prey, director Dan Trachtenberg is back at the helm for this installment, which will transport the narrative to an alien wasteland where two sisters confront their ominous pasts. Elle Fanning is the only confirmed cast member at this time.
Avatar: Fire And Ash – December 19, 2025
Directed By James Cameron
James Cameron’s Avatar saga is on course to unveil its third entry, Avatar: Fire and Ash, slated for release on December 19, 2025. This much-anticipated sequel follows closely on the heels of Avatar: The Way of Water, marking a dramatically shorter wait than the long gap between the first two films. With plans for a total of five parts, this franchise showcases Disney’s commitment to delivering high-quality cinematic experiences.
While the classification of these films under the Disney moniker can be debated, they are undeniably major properties within the Disney empire. Thus, the upcoming slate spanning 2024 to 2027 is expected to include numerous potential blockbusters.
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