In an exciting development for animation enthusiasts, Disney and Pixar are bringing three of their critically acclaimed feature films to the big screen for the first time. The lineup includes 2020’s Soul, 2021’s Luca, and 2022’s Turning Red. Scheduled for 2024, this special theatrical engagement offers moviegoers the opportunity to experience these films in a whole new way, just ahead of Pixar’s June 2024 release of Inside Out 2.
A Cinematic Experience with Pixar Shorts
In true Pixar tradition, each feature film will be preceded by a Pixar animated short film. Soul, opening in theaters on January 12, will be accompanied by the SparkShort Burrow. Turning Red, set for a February 9 release, will be preceded by Kitbull. Finally, Luca, hitting the big screen on March 22, will include the classic short For the Birds. Tickets for these special screenings go on sale on January 2, 2024.
About Soul (January 12, 2024)
Soul, an Oscar® winner for Best Animated Feature Film, explores life’s existential questions through the story of Joe Gardner, a middle-school band teacher with a passion for jazz. After a mishap takes him to The Great Before, Joe, with the help of soul 22, embarks on a journey that delves into what truly makes a person’s identity. Directed by Pete Docter and co-directed by Kemp Powers, Soul has been lauded for its original score and poignant storytelling.
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Burrow, the accompanying SparkShort, follows a young rabbit on a comical and heartwarming journey of self-discovery and community.
About Turning Red (February 9, 2024)
Turning Red introduces Mei Lee, a 13-year-old torn between being her mother’s obedient daughter and the upheavals of adolescence. Her life takes a wild turn when she transforms into a giant red panda whenever she’s too excited. Directed by Domee Shi, this film captures the essence of growing up with humor and heart.
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Kitbull, the SparkShort paired with Turning Red, showcases an unlikely friendship between a stray kitten and a pit bull, exploring themes of companionship and acceptance.
About Luca (March 22, 2024)
Set in a picturesque Italian Riviera town, Luca is a coming-of-age story about a young boy and his summer adventures with his friend Alberto. However, a secret looms over their fun: they are sea monsters from another world. Directed by Enrico Casarosa, Luca is a celebration of friendship and acceptance.
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For the Birds, the Academy Award®-winning short film accompanying Luca, humorously depicts the interactions of birds on a telephone wire, highlighting themes of acceptance and camaraderie.
Watch Pixar the Way It Was Intended
This theatrical release of Soul, Turning Red, and Luca is a testament to Pixar’s storytelling prowess and artistic vision. Fans old and new can now experience these stories in the immersive environment of the big screen, bringing a fresh perspective to these cherished films.
Which of these films are you most excited to see in theaters and why? How do you think the experience of watching these films on the big screen will differ from viewing them at home? Which Pixar animated short has left a lasting impression on you, and what makes it stand out? Let us know what you think on social media!
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