Walt Disney Studios brought its signature showmanship to CinemaCon 2025 with an ambitious showcase of upcoming films spanning beloved franchises, bold originals, and cinematic nostalgia. The presentation made clear that Disney is doubling down on theatrical experiences, reminding attendees why the Mouse House continues to lead the global box office.
Billion-Dollar Domination and a Theatrical Mission
Studio Chairman Alan Bergman and new head of global distribution Andy Cripps opened by spotlighting Disney’s 2024 dominance—claiming the top three highest-grossing films of the year and crossing $5 billion globally, a post-pandemic record. Cripps reaffirmed the company’s commitment to exclusive theatrical windows and immersive storytelling, urging exhibitors to partner more closely in maximizing in-theater marketing.
From Nostalgia to Chaos: Lilo & Stitch and Freaky Friday
The live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch arrives May 23 and has already ignited fan fervor, with Stitch’s Super Bowl appearance crashing Disney’s servers and its trailer becoming the studio’s second-most-viewed for a live-action project. Audiences got a sneak peek of Stitch’s wild antics in live action, promising chaos and heart.
Also returning is Freaky Friday, now dubbed Freakier Friday, starring Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan. The duo teased double the body swaps, more generational comedy, and an August 8 release tailor-made for summer crowds.
Sci-Fi and Franchises: Tron: Ares, Thunderbolts, Predator: Badlands
Jeff Bridges and Jared Leto hit the stage to hype Tron: Ares, the long-awaited sequel set to dazzle with cutting-edge visuals and a new digital-world-bending story. Fans were treated to exclusive footage ahead of its October 10 release.
Marvel Studios introduced the cast of Thunderbolts, a new anti-hero ensemble film featuring Florence Pugh, David Harbour, and Wyatt Russell. They previewed chaotic team dynamics, offbeat humor, and high-stakes action—kicking off summer on May 2.
Meanwhile, Elle Fanning leads Predator: Badlands, directed by Prey’s Dan Trachtenberg. The twist? Her character allies with a Predator, marking a franchise first. The November 7 release promises intense action and emotional stakes.
Awards Ambitions and Music Legends: The Amateur, Delivered Me From Nowhere
Disney’s 20th Century Studios arm showcased The Amateur, a cerebral spy thriller starring Rami Malek, Lawrence Fishburne, and Rachel Brosnahan. Early reactions from New York screenings have been glowing, positioning it as an early awards contender.
Delivered Me From Nowhere charts Bruce Springsteen’s transformative journey to recording Nebraska, starring Jeremy Allen White and Jeremy Strong. Springsteen’s blessing and the film’s intimate tone suggest another major prestige play for Disney.
James L. Brooks Returns with Ella McKay, and Searchlight’s The Roses
Oscar-winner James L. Brooks previewed Ella McKay, a political comedy led by Emma Mackey and Jamie Lee Curtis. Brooks accepted the Cinema Verité Award during the presentation, and his heartfelt remarks about the magic of moviegoing earned a standing ovation.
RELATED: FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH Trailer Unveils Guy Ritchie’s New Mythical Heist Adventure
Searchlight Pictures closed its segment with The Roses, a new take on The War of the Roses starring Olivia Colman and Benedict Cumberbatch. Expect biting humor and marital warfare when it debuts on Labor Day weekend.
Animated Magic: Elio, Zootopia 2, and Avatar: Fire and Ash
Pixar’s Elio looks to capture intergalactic wonder as an 11-year-old boy is mistakenly abducted and becomes Earth’s ambassador to the universe. Slated for a June release, it promises whimsy and heart.
Zootopia 2, arriving Thanksgiving, reunites Nick and Judy—now in couples therapy. Quinta Brunson joins as a therapy mouse, and Ke Huy Quan voices the city’s first snake. Early footage confirmed the sequel’s clever wit and colorful worldbuilding.
And finally, James Cameron—appearing remotely—offered a 3D-first look at Avatar: Fire and Ash. With new clans, stunning VFX, and an emotionally charged storyline, it hits theaters December 19, promising another box office leviathan.
What film are you most excited to experience on the big screen? Is Avatar: Fire and Ash poised to shatter records again? Could Freakier Friday bring back a new wave of body-swap comedies? Let us know on social media.
KEEP READING: The Deleted Song That Still Haunts Moana 2’s Directors
