Pixar's Long-Awaited Pandemic Films Set to Hit Theatres

Pixar's latest streaming successes, Soul, Turning Red, and Luca, will make their way to theaters nationwide in 2024. Variety was the first to announce this news.

After premiering exclusively on Disney+ during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, these films will now be available for screenings, with tickets going on sale starting January 2. Soul will hit theaters on January 12, followed by Turning Red on February 9, and Luca on March 22. Each film will also include its own corresponding short film: Burrow, Kitbull, and For the Birds.

Pixar's move to release these movies in theaters marks a strategic shift in their approach to distribution. In a conversation with Variety, Pixar's Chief Creative Officer, Pete Docter, acknowledged the impact of streaming on audience behavior, describing it as a "mixed blessing" that has influenced moviegoers to lean towards streaming over traditional theatrical outings.

Docter pointed out that the cost of taking a family to the theaters is often a deterrent when they know they can simply wait for the movie to be available on a streaming platform. He emphasized the unique and immersive experience of watching movies on the big screen, particularly highlighting the visual spectacle and the shared energy that comes from being in a theater with other people. He emphasized the details in the film Elemental and how they are best appreciated in a theater setting.

Following the surprise success of Elemental, which initially had the lowest opening weekend in Pixar's history but ultimately earned nearly $500 million worldwide, Doctor's observations align with Pixar's resurgence in theaters. This resurgence includes the upcoming premiere of Inside Out 2 on June 14, 2024, among other anticipated releases.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z netizen, I'm excited about Pixar's decision to release their pandemic films in theaters. I grew up watching Pixar movies, and I've always loved the experience of seeing them on the big screen. There's something special about being surrounded by other people who are enjoying the same movie, and it's a great way to escape from the real world for a few hours. I think it's important to support the theatrical experience, and I'm glad that Pixar is committed to releasing their films in theaters.

I also appreciate Pixar's Chief Creative Officer, Pete Docter's, comments about the impact of streaming on audience behavior. He's right that streaming has made it easier for people to watch movies at home, but I don't think it's a replacement for the theatrical experience. There's just something magical about seeing a movie in a theater, and I'm glad that Pixar is still committed to providing that experience for its fans.