Disney, the beloved entertainment giant, has just unveiled the inaugural trailer for “Once Upon a Studio,” an upcoming short film that serves as a heartwarming tribute to a century of Disney magic. This animated gem is set to make its debut on ABC at 8:00 p.m. ET/7:00 CT on October 15, inviting viewers on a nostalgic journey through Disney’s rich history.
Described by its creators as a heartfelt homage to the studio, its exceptionally talented artists, and its devoted fans, “Once Upon a Studio” begins with a captivating live-action scene within the Disney animation building’s lobby.
In this enchanting opening scene, a young employee engages in a touching conversation with none other than the late Disney legend Burny Mattinson, whose association with the studio spanned from 1953 until his recent passing. It sets the tone for a heartwarming journey.
The trailer seamlessly transitions into a magical moment when a picture featuring the iconic Mickey Mouse, hanging on the wall, springs to life. Mickey is soon joined by a captivating lineup of beloved characters from Disney’s extensive animated catalog.
This ensemble includes hand-drawn characters from timeless classics like “101 Dalmatians” and “Beauty and the Beast,” as well as computer-animated stars from modern hits such as “Zootopia” and “Encanto.”
Adding to the celebration, Asha, the protagonist of the film “Wish,” voiced by the talented Ariana DeBose, graces the screen as these iconic characters assemble for a special anniversary portrait.
During a recent press preview, Chief Creative Officer Jennifer Lee warmly recounted the emotional pitch meeting with writers-directors Dan Abraham and Trent Correy. She admitted, “I couldn’t talk. I was so emotional.” Abraham chimed in, saying, “I will never forget that pitch. She made us cry right from the start.”
The project boasts the participation of approximately 40 returning voice actors, including Paige O’Hara (known for her role as Belle in “Beauty and the Beast”), Dwayne Johnson (the voice behind Maui in “Moana”), and Josh Gad (the lovable Olaf from “Frozen”).
While the animation in “Once Upon a Studio” is entirely new and visually stunning, the filmmakers incorporated some archival sound, including the voice of Cliff Edwards, the iconic voice actor who brought Jiminy Cricket to life in Disney’s 1940 animated classic “Pinocchio.”
As Disney prepares to share this heartwarming tribute to a century of enchantment with its fans, the anticipation is building, promising a touching and nostalgic journey for viewers of all ages.
