The Mystery Behind the Missing 'Big Hero 6' Sequel
Big Hero 6 fans eagerly await a theatrical sequel, but rumors have yet to materialize However, the beloved franchise has found ways to continue its story, leaving audiences hoping for a deserving second film
The Big Picture
Big Hero 6 is a heartwarming story of family, grief, and healing. Though successful, the film never received a theatrical sequel.
Despite the release of two follow-up series, Big Hero 6: The Series and Baymax!, fans continue to eagerly anticipate a sequel on the big screen. Given its outstanding story, widespread popularity, and commendable portrayal of diversity, Big Hero 6 undoubtedly merits a well-deserved second film.
The Walt Disney Company has been a dominant force in animated films for a long time. After acquiring Marvel Studios, they found great success with the MCU. However, the two divisions have largely remained separate, except for one notable exception. Big Hero 6, based on a Marvel comic, brings these two worlds together to tell a heartwarming story of family, grief, and healing. The protagonist, Hiro Hamada, seeks revenge after the tragic death of his brother. With the help of the lovable medical robot Baymax and a few friends, they confront the man responsible. This emotional story gained popularity upon its release and has maintained a dedicated fanbase. Despite rumors, a sequel has yet to be made.
Despite nearly a decade passing since the release of Big Hero 6, there is still no official news about a potential sequel. In that time, other Disney films like Frozen and Wreck-It Ralph, which were released only a few years prior to Big Hero 6, have received theatrical sequels. Frozen even has a third film in development. The absence of a follow-up to Big Hero 6 is surprising, considering its potential for success. However, the characters have made appearances in spinoffs such as Big Hero 6: The Series and the more recent Baymax! miniseries. While these spinoffs may serve as a continuation, speculation about a sequel on the big screen continues.
Big Hero 6 is a film released on October 24, 2014, by Walt Disney Animation. It features an all-star cast including Scott Adsit, Ryan Potter, Daniel Henney, T.J. Miller, Jamie Chung, and Damon Wayans Jr. The movie is directed by Don Hall and Chris Williams and has a runtime of 108 minutes. With a PG rating, it promises an exciting adventure for all viewers.
Despite Rumors, a 'Big Hero 6' Sequel Never Happened
Following the premiere of Big Hero 6, curiosity grew regarding the future of its beloved characters, as is the case with any popular movie. The concept itself holds immense potential. With Hiro, Honey Lemon (Genesis Rodriguez), Go Go (Jamie Chung), Wasabi (Damon Wayans Jr.), Fred (T.J. Miller), and Baymax serving as heroes, the challenges they could undertake seem limitless. Furthermore, their double life as students in a prestigious school only heightens the possibilities. Although the film concluded on a satisfying note, it left the door ajar for further adventures, and fans anticipated Disney's continuation of the narrative. Similar to many superhero films, Big Hero 6 draws inspiration from existing comics that already contain multiple stories. While the film introduced significant changes, these characters still have more to offer.
After the release of Big Hero 6, there were numerous indications of possible sequels, although an official announcement for one never materialized. In 2015, the rumor mill was abuzz with talks of a sequel, fueled by comments from cast members seemingly confirming its existence. During this period, Rodriguez addressed speculation about a sequel in an interview with MTV, stating, "There's nothing definitive. There's talks of something happening." This confirmed that the rumors went beyond mere fan speculation. Shortly thereafter, acclaimed comic book writer Stan Lee, who made a brief cameo appearance in Big Hero 6's end credit scene, mentioned during discussions about Marvel's future projects that they would "have to come back for" multiple follow-up films, all of which have materialized, except for Big Hero 6.
'Big Hero 6' Has Continued in Other Ways
Image via Disney+
While a sequel has not been produced, the story extends beyond the film itself. Big Hero 6 has expanded into a television series on Disney Channel and a miniseries on Disney+. Big Hero 6: The Series premiered in 2017 and spanned three seasons. Although it had a distinct visual style with its traditional hand-drawn animation, the majority of the voice cast reprised their roles, breathing life into the beloved characters once again. The series chronicles the team's journey after the events of the film, as they attend the prestigious San Fransokyo Institute of Technology and safeguard the city as superheroes. On the other hand, the miniseries Baymax! centers around the eponymous robot, fulfilling his inherent purpose of aiding others. Originally designed to offer care to the sick and injured, Baymax now tends to a new set of patients, showcasing his meaningful encounters beyond his connection with Hiro.
The origins of the sequel rumors remain elusive, potentially stemming from one or both of these series. While not the most conventional progression following a successful movie, Disney has previously embarked on similar ventures. These series delve deeper into the team's expedition and provide further character development. However, their existence doesn't negate the possibility of a second film. The spinoffs are a testament to the enduring interest of both fans and cast members in continuing the narrative, symbolizing a glimmer of hope.
'Big Hero 6' Deserves a Second Film
Image via Disney
Despite the immense achievement of maintaining a successful TV franchise, it is evident that Big Hero 6 deserves a sequel film. However, if such a project were to materialize, it would most likely occur long after the release of the original. Since its debut in 2014, there has been an almost decade-long wait for any news regarding a sequel. After directing his film Strange World, co-director Don Hall expressed that there have been no discussions about another Big Hero 6 movie, which is understandable considering his involvement in other ongoing projects. Nevertheless, the absence of discussions does not rule out the possibility of a sequel, particularly if the beloved characters continue to capture the audience's hearts.
The film's incredible story and immense popularity have led to the creation of a sequel. In addition to the two series and the extensive merchandise campaign centered around the beloved character Baymax, the upcoming addition of San Fransokyo to Disneyland's California Adventure further demonstrates the original film's widespread appeal. Unlike many other Disney properties that struggle to secure even a single ride at the parks, this addition is truly noteworthy. However, the film's significance extends far beyond its popularity. Through the characters' ingenious inventions, the premise showcases the marvels of science and encourages children to develop an interest in this crucial subject. Moreover, Big Hero 6 shines in its handling of diversity, a characteristic often lacking in similar films. The film has unquestionably earned every bit of success it has achieved, and with multiple spin-off series already under its belt, it truly deserves another installment. Fans can now enjoy streaming Big Hero 6 exclusively on Disney+.
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