Disney is one of the most successful movie studios in history. There are many new Disney movies coming out through 2026 and beyond. They have achieved tremendous success with live-action remakes like Cruella and Maleficent, as well as animated films like Frozen II.
They continue to push the boundaries of creativity by coming up with more and more works. These include the Frozen series, the new movie Moana, and two upcoming live-action adaptations.
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List of New Disney Movies
1. Moana 2 – November 27, 2024
Moana 2 has hit theaters on November 27, 2024. Bob Iger revealed that the continuation of Moana’s story is too extraordinary if it only airs on streaming platforms. So they decided to change the format even though the launch time was near.
While there are some risks involved, the idea of a Moana 2 is certainly intriguing, especially considering the huge success of the first movie.
Moana 2 will see the return of Auli’i Cravalho, who will provide the voice for the princess character that the movie has focused on since its initial release in 2016. In addition, Dwayne Johnson will also return to lend his voice to the famous demi-god character Maui.
The animated sequel will be released just seven months before the previously announced live-action version of Moana, which will hit theaters in June 2025. So, we can be sure that Johnson will be very busy with the Moana project in the next few years.
2. Mufasa: The Lion King – December 20, 2024
One of the next new Disney movies releasing in 2024 is the prequel to Lion King, titled Mufasa: The Lion King. Currently, the only information available about the storyline is that Mufasa will be an orphan, and Timon and Pumbaa will act as narrators.
Barry Jenkins is directing this prequel, and the movie will definitely tell the story of Mufasa’s life, his relationship with Scar, and how he became the king of the Pride Lands. Mufasa: The Lion King will hit theaters on December 20, 2024.
4. Live Action Snow White – March 21, 2025
Continuing the trend among upcoming Disney films adapting classic stories, Disney’s latest live-action remake of Snow White has been the subject of much controversy. The movie will hit theaters on March 21, 2025.
Rachel Zegler will play Snow White, while Gal Gadot will play the evil Queen who has magic powers. The storyline will most likely follow the classic animated version, but with some changes, including updates to the iconic songs.
Marc Webb will direct the film, and the script for the live-action Snow White was written by Greta Gerwig and Erin Cressida Wilson.
5. Elio – June 13, 2025
Next up is Elio. Initially, the movie was scheduled to air in Spring 2024, but was later postponed to Summer 2025.
The main character, Elio, will be voiced by Yonas Kibreab, while America Ferrera will play his mother, Olga. Adrian Molina, who previously collaborated with Pixar on Coco and The Good Dinosaur, will direct.
The story follows Elio who is trapped in space with aliens and cosmic beings, who feel very attracted to Elio’s human form that is alien to them.
6. Tron: Ares – 2025
TRON: Ares will be the third installment in the Tron franchise, which started in 1982 and got its first sequel 30 years later in 2010. The upcoming movie has had several delays, and there was even a period where the idea was canceled completely.
However, there is now official confirmation that TRON: Ares will hit theaters in 2025 after filming since January 2024. Currently only a few plot details have been revealed. Joachim Rønning will act as director, while new faces like Gillian Anderson (X-Files) also join the cast list.
7. Zootopia 2 – November 26, 2025
Zootopia takes viewers into a bright and diverse animal metropolis, and dives into themes of friendship, diversity, and the importance of fighting social prejudice.
Bob Iger confirmed that a sequel is in development, with Jared Bush returning as director and writer, and Josie Trinidad joining as co-director.
At the moment, information about the storyline of Zootopia 2 has yet to be revealed. However, if we look at the hints from the actors as well as the success of the first film that raised complex social issues with a touch of humor and emotion, this sequel might further explore the intricate complexities in Z society.
8. Live Action Moana – June 27, 2026
Next up is the live action Moana. In April 2023, it was officially confirmed that WaltDisney Pictures is remaking Moana in the form of a live-action adaptation. Dwayne Johnson, Dany Garcia, and Hiram Garcia will serve as producers for the project.
Johnson will also return to play demi-God Maui, although Auli’i Cravalho revealed in a video on Instagram that he will not be returning as Moana, but will serve as an executive producer. Thomas Kail will direct. The film is scheduled to be released in theaters on June 27, 2026.
9. Frozen 3 – 2026
Although there is no official release date yet, Frozen 3 is set to hit theaters in 2026. As one of Disney’s most successful franchises, it’s no surprise that the story of Frozen will continue, despite Anna and Elsa having gotten a satisfying ending at the end of Frozen 2.
At the moment, no plot details are available, but there will certainly be many avenues that Jennifer Lee can explore as a screenwriter.
10. Toy Story 5 – 2026
Another surprise announcement from Disney in 2023 is the continuation of Woody and Buzz’s story in Toy Story with a fifth installment. It felt like it was all over with Toy Story 4, but given the difficulties Pixar has been facing lately, this billion-dollar franchise seems to be just what the company needs.
However, information about Toy Story 5 is still very limited, except for the release year, which is scheduled for 2026. Tom Hanks and Tim Allen will officially return, but even the direction of the movie is still uncertain.
