Disney’s Best Upcoming Projects Were Touted At D23 Expo
The D23 Expo, Disney’s premier fan event, known for showcasing and revealing upcoming projects from the House of Mouse was held at the Anaheim Convention Center from Sept. 9 to 11.
It featured major announcements regarding the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Star Wars, Pixar, 20th Century Fox, Walt Disney Studios and Walt Disney Animation.
Here are some key takeaways.
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever
The D23 crowd was treated to never-before-seen footage of the highly anticipated sequel. Fans are not only excited about the film but are solemnly curious as to how the franchise will move forward following Chadwick Boseman’s tragic death.
All the promotional material has promised a heartfelt, intense and action-packed movie. It will build not only on the original’s success but also the legacy left by the MCU’s King T’challa. The movie, directed by Ryan Coogler, opens in theaters on Nov. 11.
Werewolf By Night
Marvel Studios released a trailer for the TV special expected to be released on Oct. 7. The project, directed by composer Michael Giacchino, showcases a black-and-white look at the supernatural side of the MCU.
It introduces the famed half-man, half-wolf who was first conceived in 1972. The trailer is in the style of a 1940-50s Halloween special presentation and is a significant dissent from the MCU’s usual way of doing things.
Indiana Jones 5
The long-awaited fifth entry will have Harrison Ford reprise his role as the swashbuckling archaeologist and feature Phoebe Waller-Bridge joining the cast. The universally-adored Ford has a legacy of being in some of the most exhilarating cinematic adventures ever.
James Mangold will direct the film. Ford confirmed that this will be his final outing as Indy.
The Mandalorian
The first trailer for the show’s third season was released at D23.
Rick Famuyiwa will serve as the show’s executive producer and Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni also return. Additionally, Pedro Pascal will continue as Din Djarin/The Mandalorian, trekking the galaxy with Grogu, or as the public affectionately deems him, “Baby Yoda.”
Inside Out 2
The sequel to the Pixar favorite was confirmed with Amy Poehler returning as Joy to provide the happiness and glee. It promises to follow Riley as she braves the feelings of growing up. The film is slated for a summer 2024 release but nothing is yet known about the sequel.
Avatar: Way of the Water
The world of Pandora will return to theaters after 13 years. After it became one of the highest-grossing films of all time, fans have been excited to see what stories director James Cameron will tell in this colorful and vibrant world.
Attendees at the panel were treated to footage from the long-awaited sequel that will release in theaters only on Dec. 16.
The Little Mermaid
The live-action remake of the iconic animated film of the same name released a teaser trailer showcasing Ariel, who is being played by Halle Bailey, singing one of her most famous songs: Part of That World. The release window for the project is the summer 2023.
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