By Cecilia Sarantopoulos
As we bid farewell to the old year and welcome the promise of a shiny new 2025, it’s time to reflect on resolutions—both ours and some of Disney’s most beloved characters. From pursuing dreams to chasing destinies, they remind us that a little courage and determination can transform any wish into a defining moment. Ready to test your memory and match the dreamers to their most pivotal resolutions?
By the D23 Team
Get cozy and spread festive cheer with D23's digital holiday postcards! They’re the perfect way to send a warm message on a chilly winter day.
Share your postcards on social media—and don’t forget to tag both @DisneyD23 and all your friends to spread the Disney magic this holiday season.
By Devorah Burgess, Walt Disney Archives
Dive, dive, dive!
The year is 1868. Vessels traveling the heavy shipping lanes of the Pacific Ocean are threatened by a terrifying menace believed to be a strange monster. The peculiar creature is, in reality, a man-made submarine called the Nautilus—a self-contained vessel operated by cosmic power and headed by the eccentric genius Captain Nemo.
Seventy years ago, on December 23, 1954, Walt Disney’s Academy Award®-winning 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea first dove onto the big screen. Adapted by The Walt Disney Studios from the pages of Jules Verne’s science-fiction novel to a feature-length motion picture epic, the film has harpooned the hearts of generations. The story follows Professor Pierre Aronnax (Paul Lukas) of the Paris National Museum—positioned as the foremost authority on the sea and its mysteries—his apprentice, the reluctant Conseil (Peter Lorre), and heroic harpooner Ned Land (Kirk Douglas), who are all part of the crew assigned to hunt the monstrous creature—which leads them to Captain Nemo (James Mason).
Walt Disney had long admired the works of Verne and had the idea to make a film adaptation of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea early in his career. The project was proposed as a True-Life Adventures-type subject, and for a short period was even considered as an animated project, until Hollywood art director (and future Disney Legend) Harper Goff—who shared a love of Verne—intervened:
“Walt went to England for many, many, many weeks for a role. I just fantasized on the idea of making it a live-action film. I didn’t draw it as a cartoon. I just worked from the book. It was empirical. It followed every incident that was in Jules Verne’s original. When Walt came back, he just raised one eyebrow, as if to say, ‘When the cat’s away the mice will play.’ He said, ‘What do you expect it to do?’ And I said, ‘This is live action, you know, I just thought you might do live action.’” —Harper Goff, artist and production designer
When Walt studied Goff’s story sketches, the fate of the film was transformed. The opportunity to combine Technicolor®and the groundbreaking new CinemaScope® process—of filming underwater and bringing to the screen Verne’s Nautilus, giant squid, and well-known characters—appealed to his imagination and storytelling instincts. Not one to repeat himself, Walt had established a reputation for exploring new and different directions, and this project offered the perfect opportunity to do so.
Walt Disney and his staff embarked on a whale of a tale to create this film. 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea was the first big-budget live-action feature shot at The Walt Disney Studios in Burbank. The studio once solely focused on animated films was now bustling as a new sound stage and shops were constructed to accommodate the film’s expanding production needs. Walt also set about recruiting some of Hollywood’s leading filmmakers: Ralph Hammeras (miniature effects photographer), Franz Planer (cinematographer), Emile Kuri (set decorator), and Richard Fleischer (director).
“The story of my getting the job of directing 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea is in my view one of the most bizarre and fantastic things that ever happened to me. My father, Max Fleischer, and Walt Disney were great competitors. So it was a great surprise to me when Walt offered me the job directing 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea.” —Richard Fleischer, director
Fleischer brought along collaborator and American screenwriter Earl Felton to the studio. The two would spend many long nights in their office in the Animation Building writing the script. Walt, personally invested in the project, would stop by regularly to offer Felton new dialogue and other ideas.
20,000 Leagues Under the Sea was filmed at three separate studios. At the Disney studio, the Nautilus interior, deck, and underwater miniature scenes were filmed, with a purposely built water effects tank constructed in the new Soundstage 3. The Western set used to depict 1860s San Francisco was located at the Universal Studios lot. Meanwhile, miniature effects shots and some other scenes were filmed at the Twentieth Century-Fox studios using a 22-foot-long Nautilus.
To achieve the mesmerizing underwater scenes set at the sunken island of Crespo, production also took place in Nassau, The Bahamas. Lyford Cay, at the western tip of New Providence Island, was selected as the ideal filming location because of its clear water. (Coincidentally, it was the same location where the 1916 silent film version of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea had been filmed.) More than 20 tons of equipment, including three special underwater cameras, were transported to set, including experimental one-of-a-kind diving gear designed to meet the production’s needs and story elements. The equipment was shipped in from the Burbank studio lot after only being tested in a shallow pool!
“It was quite an adventure. People were scuba diving before that word had been invented. Everything they were doing down there was experimental. It was a pretty amazing operation.” —Disney Legend Roy E. Disney, later Vice Chairman of The Walt Disney Company
The diving suits, designed by Harper Goff with technical support from diving expert Fred Zendar, combined a diver’s helmet (styled after those used by Japanese pearl divers), a 150-pound rubber suit, and a disguised breathing apparatus. Lead weights were used in the boots to keep the actors from floating up.
Actors only had about an hour’s worth of air in their tank. It took 20 minutes to don diving gear, 10 minutes to get each person underwater, and another 10 to get them up to the surface, leaving only a few minutes to film a given scene. A series of hand signals were used to communicate efficiently with actors and crew underwater. Given this time-consuming process—and with the sun offering the only light source—up to four dives could be performed per day. The undersea funeral sequence alone took eight days to complete, featuring 11 actors and 22 crew members, all underwater.
“[For the funeral sequence,] there was a stretcher that four of us carried that had the ‘dead’ crew member on it…. The crew member was made out of chicken wire. It was a beautiful job; it looked like a person…. Captain Nemo got in front of the coral and put his cross down, and then, when he put his hands down, we were supposed to turn around to the side and pick up the coral and gently place it on the body. But the only problem was there wasn’t enough room to turn around. Well, time was going by, and everybody was getting panicked. What we were doing was picking up the coral and throwing it on him…. We smashed that poor guy down to nothing. It was just a flat sheet now. Nobody was smiling when we got up on the ship, but no one said anything.” —Bill Stropahl, stunt diver
The Nautilus was designed by Harper Goff with the utmost detail. Plans were drawn to plot the location of the cabins, salon, decks, and various rooms. Goff’s design was inspired by Verne’s own description of the submarine, which featured technologies envisioned years before they would become reality. By combining futuristic, piston-driven mechanisms with 19th-century elegance, Goff achieved a meticulous Victorian-futuristic aesthetic—something we might call “steampunk” in today’s terms. Great care was taken to evoke a feeling of warmth and sophistication, down to the leather-bound books on Captain Nemo’s shelves. The sub is both modern and a step back in time—it feels real, like you could live in it.
“One of the prime points made by Verne in the original story was that most of the people [who] had seen it described it as a monster, as a sea monster,” Goff would recount. “The two most awesome sea creatures that I had ever seen were the shark and the alligator.” Taking the dorsal fin of a shark and applying the eyes and rough skin of an alligator, the enduring image of Disney’s Nautilus was born.
Meanwhile, the interiors were based on the layout and warm woodwork of the USS Oregon battleship, built in the 1890s. The set was designed such that the entire layout could be viewed in almost every shot—walls, floor, and ceiling—intending to evoke in the audience a feeling of claustrophobia. This presented a challenge to the lighting designers, who would resort to hiding the lights in pieces of furniture.
The film’s musical score was composed by Disney Legend Paul Smith, who spent most of his career at The Walt Disney Studios and ultimately received eight Academy Award nominations (including one win for Original Score for Pinocchio [1940]). He wrote the background music for almost all the True-Life Adventures and nearly 70 animated shorts and felt that his music was a way of drawing the audience to the film.
“A sweet, gentle, quiet gentleman with great talent.… He wrote beautifully, but he wrote to service the film.… It was wonderful because he made every scene come to life with his gentle magic.… 20,000 Leagues is one of his finest pieces of work. It is a majestic score. It had great scope. It went from big exploding feelings to very subtle gentle things to scary things to eerie. He did a remarkable job in that film.” —Disney Legend and songwriter Richard M. Sherman
Captain Nemo’s theme was written to a piece of poetry by lyricist Hazel “Gil” George, who happened to be the studio nurse. George later recalled the moment Smith reached out to collaborate: “He called me and said, ‘See if you can write a poem or anything that might give me a kickoff on this.’” George jotted down the phrase “Deep is the mighty ocean,” which became the basis for the theme that represents both the sea and the depths of Nemo’s soul. To achieve an “underwater” orchestral effect, Smith used a combination of low strings and woodwinds—five clarinets, a piano, a harp, a gong, and a bass marimba.
A second theme is the iconic number that Kirk Douglas performs in the film—“A Whale of a Tale,” written by Norman Gimbel (words) and Al Hoffman (music). The theme is used in the dozen or so sequences that feature Ned Land and comedic elements, but it is also heard when Ned heroically saves Captain Nemo. What could have been an isolated song that wouldn’t bear much on the plot became the defining sound of a character and the film.
When asked to perform “A Whale of a Tale,” Kirk Douglas did not hesitate. “I’m not a singer, but I knew that the song would help establish the character,” he would later share with the Chicago Tribune. “I rehearsed it thoroughly, and when it came time to film, we got it done in very few takes.” He said that his grandson had memorized the number and sometimes sang it for him. “The first time he did it, he took me completely by surprise. That’s a wonderful feeling. It’s one thing knowing that another generation still remembers your song. But when it’s your own grandson… it’s great, just great.”
Perhaps the most famous scene from 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea is the battle against the giant squid, which was filmed on the newly built Soundstage 3. The squid was operated by puppeteers using cables that led up to the ceiling. This special effect would prove to be one of the most difficult to shoot. Looking back on the production, director Richard Fleisher recalled that the first attempt at a squid figure was akin to a sponge. Whole tentacles would fall off, so waterlogged they would snap the wires that were meant to control them.
The color and shape of the squid was redesigned by sculptor Chris Mueller, while special effects expert Bob Mattey combined two tons of rubber, flexible tubing, plastics, and steel springs to achieve fluid movement with the tentacles. This allowed every arm to be fully functional; the squid could move its head, roll its eyes, and snap its beak. It took 28 people to bring it to life. To create the effect of rain, the studio used some 30 wind machines (made from old airplane engines and propellers) and poured water into the wind stream to achieve the sideways effect of the water. Roy E. Disney would recall, “Water was flowing out of every door of the soundstage about a foot deep.”
20,000 Leagues Under the Sea was nominated for three Academy Awards, winning for Best Special Effects and Best Art Direction – Color. The film was so beloved that it spurred attractions in Disney Parks around the world. Shortly after its release, Walt Disney decided to display the film’s original sets in Tomorrowland at Disneyland Park. The 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea Exhibit proved to be a popular attraction and remained at the park for some 11 years (from August 3, 1955, to August 28, 1966). A similar walk-through attraction, Les Mystères du Nautilus, opened at Disneyland Paris on July 4, 1994, with elaborate set pieces recreating the famed Nautilus.
At Walt Disney World Resort, the Fantasyland submarine attraction 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea debuted on October 14, 1971. While Disneyland had based its “liquid space” attraction on the nuclear submarines that had been so much in the news in the late 1950s, the Imagineers decided instead to pattern their 12 submarines for the new Magic Kingdom Park after the Nautilus—with narration supplied by Captain Nemo himself (voiced by longtime Disney actor Pete Renoudet). It quickly became one of the most popular attractions in the park. After nearly 23 years, the attraction closed on September 5, 1994.
Aboard the Disney Treasure, the newest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, guests can step inside the adult-exclusive Periscope Pub. Set in the Nautilus submarine, this adult-exclusive lounge features treasures and artifacts from Captain Nemo’s travels, and a view of the watery world above through a “glass” ceiling. Undersea-inspired drinks include three exclusive tap beers uniquely themed to the 1954 film and former Walt Disney World attraction.
At Tokyo DisneySea, the port of call known as Mysterious Island is themed to the works of Jules Verne (and shares a name with Verne’s serialized follow-up to 20,000 Leagues). Here, Captain Nemo’s scientific base has been constructed using Victorian-era principles, employing massive iron supports, panels, and girders, but carefully designed to co-exist within the fragile ecosystem and natural wonders of a volcanic crater. In the attraction 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, guests join Captain Nemo’s crew and undertake a mysterious deep-sea mission aboard a six-passenger submarine, encountering shipwrecks, sea monsters, and intelligent denizens from the undersea civilization of Atlantis!
If you’re looking to glimpse original props used in 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, head over to the Walt Disney Presents gallery attraction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, where a Nautilus crew dive helmet, dive boots, and undersea rifle from the Walt Disney Archives collection are on display. Also featured is one of two Oscars® (Best Special Effects) awarded to the film, accepted by Walt Disney in 1955.
Blending boundary-breaking innovation, ambitious special effects, and creative storytelling, Walt Disney’s 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea was a groundbreaking achievement, successfully adapting Jules Verne’s imaginative novel into a visual masterpiece and leaving an enduring legacy that continues to ripple across popular culture and Hollywood history. Seventy years later, Walt’s first cinematic epic remains a testament to his mightiest ambitions and to his studio’s lasting ability to captivate audiences, taking them on an unforgettable journey to the depths of the ocean… and beyond.
20,000 Leagues Under the Sea is now streaming on Disney+.
By the D23 Team
Topps fans, here’s some incredible news to kick off your New Year!
Beginning in January, our friends at Topps will be releasing two brand-new collections of physical cards—yes, ones you can hold in your hands IRL (that’s “in real life,” for those that need a refresher in internet speak)—themed to several of your favorite worlds of Disney!
First up, Topps Genesis will debut one of the first-ever card sets to spotlight characters from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Lucasfilm all in one collection! Keep your eyes peeled for cards featuring Mickey Mouse, Buzz Lightyear, Spider Man, Darth Vader, and more! There’s no end to the magic Topps Genesis has in store for this collection, so don’t miss a moment. Fans can find the first drop of these cards available exclusively on Topps.com beginning early January.
Then, just a few weeks later, look out for the Topps Finest X-Men ‘97 collection! It’s Topps’ first Marvel trading card release, and it’s the perfect combination of collectable card fun and ’90s nostalgia. Look for cards featuring characters and storylines from season 1—such as Storm and Wolverine—and a cool, retro aesthetic alongside modern touches… all creating a truly unique look! You’ll find the Topps Finest X-Men ’97 collection in hobby and comic book shops nationwide in late January.
Stay tuned for more Topps updates in the coming months!
By Cecilia Sarantopoulos
The holidays are here, bringing a magical mix of festive cheer and family traditions. For those moments when you’re short on time but still craving a touch of holiday spirit, Disney+ offers an unforgettable assortment of festive shorts. These eight bite-sized delights are perfect for a cozy evening—whether you’re trimming the tree, sipping hot cocoa, or simply soaking in the season.
Santa’s Workshop (1932)
This vintage gem from Walt Disney Animation Studios is a delightful throwback to the golden age of hand-drawn animation. Watch as Santa’s industrious elves craft toys with assembly-line precision… and a touch of chaos. Nostalgic and endlessly charming, Santa’s Workshop is the perfect choice to kick off your holiday viewing. Fun fact: Walt Disney himself voices Santa’s second helper!
Pluto’s Christmas Tree (1952)
In this classic tale of yuletide mayhem, Mickey’s (voiced by James Macdonald) well-meaning dog Pluto (voiced by Disney Legend Pinto Colvig) discovers that Chip (voiced by Norma Swank) and Dale (voiced by Dessie Flynn) have moved into the Christmas tree—and they’re not exactly paying rent. What follows is a hilariously chaotic battle that’ll leave you rooting for the mischievous chipmunks—and maybe questioning Pluto’s holiday spirit.
Prep & Landing (2009)
Move over, Rudolph—there’s a new hero in Santa’s sleigh. This clever short introduces us to an elite team of elves who prep rooftops for the big man’s arrival. Packed with gadgetry, humor, and just the right amount of holiday heart, it’s a modern classic that proves even Santa’s helpers need a bit of tech support.
Ice Age: A Mammoth Christmas (2011)
What happens when a prehistoric mammoth accidentally lands on Santa’s naughty list? A snowballing adventure, of course! With its quirky humor and lovable characters, this Ice Age holiday short offers a fun, wintry escape. Plus, who can resist Scrat (voiced by Chris Wedge) chasing his next acorn?
Once Upon a Snowman (2020)
What was Olaf (voiced by Disney Legend Josh Gad) up to before his fateful meeting with Anna and Kristoff (voiced by Disney Legends Kristen Bell and Jonathan Groff, respectively)? This charming short rewinds to the moment Elsa (voiced by Disney Legend Idina Menzel) unknowingly brings him to life during her North Mountain anthem. Packed with Easter eggs and callbacks to Walt Disney Animation Studios’ beloved Frozen, it even answers the question of why this summer-loving snowman adores the sun—without realizing the melt risk!
Mickey Saves Christmas (2022)
In this stop-motion holiday delight, Mickey (voiced by Bret Iwan) and friends set out to save the season after Pluto (voiced by Disney Legend Bill Farmer) accidentally causes Santa (voiced by Brock Powell) to lose his presents. Their journey to the North Pole is filled with mishaps, heartfelt moments, and a reminder of what truly makes the holidays special.
An Almost Christmas Story (2024)
Inspired by the real-life story of an owl rescued from the Rockefeller Plaza Christmas tree in 2020, this heartfelt tale follows Moon (voiced by Cary Christopher), a tiny owl curious about shiny things. After finding himself far from home inside a pine tree bound for New York City, Moon befriends Luna (voiced by Estella Madrigal), a girl also searching for her place in the world. Together, they learn that the true meaning of Christmas lies in unexpected friendships and finding their way back to what matters most.
Mickey and the Very Many Christmases (2024)
Ever wish Christmas lasted all year? Mickey (voiced by Bret Iwan) does, and his wish comes true in this whimsical new special. But as the holiday repeats day after day, Mickey learns there’s more to the season than endless festivities. It’s a dazzling, globe-trotting celebration with a heartfelt lesson at its core.
By the D23 team
This year, D23: The Official Disney Fan Club marked a sensational chapter in its history, celebrating 15 magical years of connecting Disney fans worldwide. From the record-breaking D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in Anaheim to the debut of the D23 Experience in Brazil, fans came together to honor the worlds of Disney in extraordinary ways. Join us as we reflect on the events that made this year one for the storybooks—and prepare for an even more incredible 2025!
Celebrating 15 Years of D23 at Walt Disney World
To mark its 15th anniversary, D23 hosted a spectacular celebration at Walt Disney World—welcoming the best fans in the world. The Magic & Mystery-themed evening featured photo ops with playing card artwork from the D23 Collector Set. Guests enjoyed a live DJ, bowling, food, and drinks, including Everglazed Donuts, and received exclusive items like a playing card-inspired pin and a Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey Mouse figurine. Attendees could also purchase new collectibles and limited-edition D23 15th anniversary items during a unique shopping experience at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort.
Milestone Anniversaries
2024 brimmed with milestone anniversaries that D23 celebrated with fan-favorite anniversary screenings and Street Food Cinema events. At the Los Angeles County Arboretum, D23 Members enjoyed a 15th anniversary screening of Up, complete with a presentation about peacocks and a surprise proposal at Carl’s balloon cart. The 35th anniversary of The Little Mermaid was celebrated with a dive-in screening at the Hansen Dam Aquatic Center—home to the country’s largest pool—during which co-director Ron Clements shared behind-the-scenes stories about the making of the film.
At Griffith Park in Los Angeles, fans celebrated 60 years of Mary Poppins with a special presentation, including an audio recording from P.L. Travers and Richard Sherman performing “Feed the Birds.” Attendees also visited the park’s iconic merry-go-round, the very inspiration behind Walt Disney’s creation of Disneyland. The series concluded with a 20th anniversary screening of The Incredibles at the Pearson Park Amphitheater. The event featured an Edna Mode’s Costume Contest, during which guests made sure to “suit up,” strike a pose, and strut across the stage.
D23 Day at Disneyland
The very first D23 Day at Disneyland Resort kicked off D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in style! At both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure, guests enjoyed complimentary Mickey Mouse ear hats and a special map with 23 suggested activities. Rare characters like Lots-O’-Huggin Bear and Disney Jr.’s Ariel, who made her Disney Parks debut, greeted fans throughout the day. Meanwhile, the Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Parade amped up the energy at California Adventure. Disneyland Park hosted a D23 Day cavalcade with 23 beloved characters and Disney Legends, including Don Hahn, Floyd Norman, Mark Henn, Kenny Ortega, Tony Baxter, Jodi Benson, Wing Chao, Linda Larkin, Bill Farmer, Bob Gurr, and Martha Blanding.
The excitement extended to the Downtown Disney District, where D23 Members and fan event attendees enjoyed exclusive discounts at select dining locations and retail, including the World of Disney. The fun continued with dance parties at Tomorrowland Terrace and a performance by Suburban Legends.
D23 Day at Angel Stadium: A Home Run Celebration
The first ever D23 Day at Angel Stadium was a hit! The Los Angeles Angels triumphed over the New York Mets with a fitting 2-3 victory, and D23 Members enjoyed giveaways, an exclusive pre-game party, and commemorative postcards. The first 23,000 fans also received an event-exclusive D23/Los Angeles Angels Mickey Mouse bobblehead. Ravensburger provided Disney Lorcana starter packs, while the Walt Disney Archives hosted an Angels in the Outfield exhibit. Mickey Mouse even threw the first pitch with the help of twin Disney cast members Matt and Cody Breidinger.
D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event Reaches New Heights
D23 raised the bar with its most impressive Ultimate Disney Fan Event yet, held this past August in Anaheim. For the first time ever, the event expanded to the Honda Center, hosting three spectacular evening showcases: Disney Entertainment, Disney Experiences, and the Legends Award Ceremony. Over at the Anaheim Convention Center, an outstanding lineup of more than 230 panels, presentations, show floor offerings, and Talent Central interactions kept the excitement going for three full days—not to mention the hundreds of dazzling cosplayers who stole the spotlight.
Fans explored the largest show floor in D23 history—featuring immersive pavilions from Disney+, Pixar, Marvel Studios, Lucasfilm, and more. They also enjoyed heartfelt tributes, including a musical celebration of Richard M. Sherman’s contributions and a nostalgic gathering with the voice actors behind Disney’s legendary animated characters! Featuring dazzling evening showcases at the Honda Center, surprise celebrity appearances, and exclusive sneak peeks of upcoming Disney projects, D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event proved why it’s the unparalleled fan celebration. Take a gander at some of its most memorable moments in this recap video.
Legends Ceremony: Honoring Disney Greats
The 2024 Disney Legends Ceremony at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event brought heartfelt reunions and inspiring tributes welcoming a new class of 14 Disney Legends into the iconic pantheon: Colleen Atwood, Angela Bassett, Martha Blanding, James L. Brooks, James Cameron, Jamie Lee Curtis, Miley Cyrus, Steve Ditko, Harrison Ford, Mark Henn, Frank Oz, Kelly Ripa, Joe Rohde, and John Williams. From onstage speeches to a star-studded celebration, fans and honorees reflected on Disney’s legendary impact . Relive the magic with this recap video and these standout moments.
The ceremony is also available for viewing on Disney+.
Tune-in To Terror: Disney+ and D23 Bring the Chills
D23 Members gathered at The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel for a spook-tacular night at D23’s Tune-in To Terror: A Hollywood Halloween Event, presented by Disney+. The hotel lobby transformed into the Tip Top Club from The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, with ghostly figures roaming the grounds.
The Witches’ Road Lounge, inspired by Agatha All Along, featured DJ Colette’s magical tracks, while the Black Flame Ballroom came alive with live music by The Salem Sound and an appearance by the Sanderson Sisters performers and Doug Jones, known for his iconic role as Billy Butcherson in Hocus Pocus. Other highlights included The Happiest Haunt, The Rerun Room featuring classic Disney Halloween films, and the Skeleton Dance Party celebrating 95 years of The Skeleton Dance. Delicious food, photo ops, and event exhibits from the Walt Disney Archives made for a ghoulishly fun night!
Celebrating Tiana: From Florida to New Orleans
D23 celebrated Princess Tiana twice in 2024! The festivities began in New Orleans with a 15th anniversary screening of The Princess and the Frog. Members enjoyed surprise appearances by Keith David (who voiced Dr. Facilier) and Jim Cummings (who voiced Ray), live jazz by The Crescent City All-Stars, presentations about the new Disney Parks attraction Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, and a curated exploration of the decades-long history between The Walt Disney Company and the city of New Orleans from the Walt Disney Archives.
The celebration continued for D23 Gold Members at Walt Disney World, where Imagineer Karin Hansen gave an exclusive preview of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, and guests enjoyed Mardi Gras-inspired cookies and event-exclusive pins. The celebration also included a 15th anniversary screening of the film. Across both events, fans were treated to surprise appearances, live performances, and exclusive keepsakes, including pins and special performances!
D23 Brazil – A Disney Experience
In a historic first, D23 Brazil – A Disney Experience kicked off at the Transamerica Expo Center in São Paulo, offering fans a jam-packed first day of exclusive announcements, presentations, and immersive experiences. Highlights included the announcement that Ice Age 6 was in production, exclusive sneak peeks of upcoming films like Mufasa: The Lion King, Disney’s Snow White, Lilo & Stitch, and TRON: Ares, along with exciting new content from Pixar and Walt Disney Animation Studios.
Fans were treated to exclusive previews of Moana 2 and Zootopia 2, with surprise messages from stars Auli‘i Cravalho, Dwayne Johnson, and Shakira leaving the crowd buzzing. The excitement soared when Anthony Mackie (Captain America: Brave New World) and Rami Malek (The Amateur) took the stage to discuss their highly anticipated upcoming projects. D23 Brazil also featured a variety of interactive attractions, such as the Pixar Toy Story zone, the Marvel zone, and the Star Wars space, where fans tested their Jedi skills in a laser maze. Relive the excitement with these event highlights.
D23 Inside Disney
This year’s D23 Inside Disney video episodes brought fans closer to their favorite stories, with insights from beloved Disney stars and creators. From a special feature on Moana 2 to episodes spotlighting Mufasa: The Lion King, Inside Out 2, and more, the series offered a front-row seat to the magic of Disney storytelling. The series also featured behind-the-scenes Disney Parks moments, including an episode celebrating the 30th anniversary celebration of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror.
Catch up on all the episodes here.
Thank you, Disney fans, for 15 magical years. Here’s to even more adventures in 2025!
By the D23 Team
Ready to learn about the greatest survival story ever told? In 1915, the Endurance sank below the Antarctic sea ice—but thanks to the incredible courage and determination of polar explorer Sir Earnest Shackleton, its entire crew survived.
The location of the shipwreck itself was lost for over a century, due to the Antarctic’s hostile conditions—reaching legendary status among modern explorers. But all that changed in early 2022, when the Endurance was finally discovered nearly 10,000 feet under the sea ice by a team of intrepid scientists and explorers. Our friends at National Geographic were there, capturing the moment of discovery in their latest thrilling documentary—Endurance, directed by Jimmy Chin—available now on Disney+ and Hulu.
Before diving into the icy world of Endurance, here are five trivia tidbits about the legendary Shackleton expedition, and the production of this inspiring film:
All 28 Crew Members Survived
After the Endurance became trapped in pack ice in the Weddell Sea off the coast of Antarctica in January 1915, Shackleton and his crew abandoned ship and made their way onto an ice floe—surviving for months (yes, months!) on “sledge” rations, like biscuits; the meat of nearby wildlife; and even boiled seaweed. It took all those months of living on the sea ice, and a perilous 800-mile journey in a small lifeboat, but Shackleton and all 27 members of the crew were finally out of danger 750 days after first leaving their native England.
A Camera in Tow
Shackleton included Frank Hurley—an experienced Antarctic traveler, photographer, and cinematographer— on his polar expedition. Nat Geo’s filmmaking team uses Hurley’s photographs and film from the actual 1914 expedition to recreate the visual aspect of the documentary, along with select footage from films of the 1920s and ’30s detailing other polar expeditions.
Hear Ernest Shackleton and His Crew
Using unprecedented AI tools, the voices of Shackleton and his crew “read” their personal diaries from the 1914 expedition and—illustrated with Frank Hurley’s original expedition footage and photos—create an immersive, spine-tingling adventure into the past. Viewers are invited into the expedition as if they’ve joined the crew themselves… listening in as Shackleton and six crew members “speak” from own diary entries, something never recorded when they were alive.
Pioneering Subsea Technology
To meet film production and scientific requirements, it was necessary not only to get high-resolution 4K images but also digital scans of the wreck. For the first time at an unbelievable depth of 9,800 feet underwater, new photogrammetric and laser technology was deployed—enabling millimeter-scale digital reconstruction. AI was also used here to improve data quality, and to create an incredible image of the entire Endurance wreck for the very first time.
Endurance—Enduring in the Antarctic Forever
The Endurance ship is protected by the Antarctic Treaty as a “historic subsea monument,” so nothing can be removed from the ship, and it must remain where it currently lays on the sea floor. But with the high-quality scans, imagery, and footage of the ship in the Endurance documentary, viewers will feel like they’re literally walking aboard the famous ship, for years to come…
National Geographic’s Endurance is now streaming on Disney+ and Hulu!
Discover more about the wonders of our world—and be inspired by today’s greatest adventurers—by watching National Geographic on Disney+, and stay up to date on all things Nat Geo by checking out the Nat Geo collection page on D23.
By Cecilia Sarantopoulos
It’s time to revisit Headquarters—but this time, we’re delving even deeper into the subconscious of Riley (voiced by Kensington Tallman). Welcome to Dream Productions, the fully realized studio where dreams are written, directed, and occasionally turned into nightmares. Disney and Pixar’s new four-episode series, premiering December 11 on Disney+, offers an enchanting exploration of this whimsical world, taking fans on a behind-the-scenes journey into the depths of Riley’s mind.
The show reunites fans with the beloved original Emotions—Joy (voiced by Amy Poehler), Sadness (voiced by Phyllis Smith), Anger (voiced by Lewis Black), Disgust (voiced by Liza Lapira), and Fear (voiced by Tony Hale)—while introducing a vibrant cast of new characters.
At the center of Dream Productions is Paula Persimmon (voiced by Paula Pell), a high-energy, slightly frazzled director at the studio, who made a brief but memorable cameo in Inside Out. Supporting her is Janelle (voiced by Ally Maki), her resourceful yet under appreciated assistant director; Xeni (voiced by Richard Ayoade), a quirky indie filmmaker specializing in crafting Daydreams; and Jean (voiced by Maya Rudolph), the no-nonsense head of production whose mere presence is enough to keep everyone on their toes.
“I love [my character] Paula because I relate to her so much,” says Pell. “This kind of comedy is right in my wheelhouse—playing a flustered, low-self-esteem woman who’s had some successes but is now desperately trying to hold on and white-knuckle her way through,” she adds with a laugh. Dream Productions follows Paula’s journey as she navigates her love for Riley and the dreams they’ve built together, all while grappling with the ever-changing and competitive landscape of her studio. “I was experiencing this [need to keep up] in real time,” Pell admits. “Young people are different, everything is different, the world is different.”
While Janelle looks up to Paula, she’s more adept at navigating the fast-paced and demanding work culture of the Dream Productions studio. But that doesn’t mean she’s without her own challenges. “Like Janelle, it’s been the Everest of my life trying to figure out how not to people-please and to take up space in a room—it’s never easy,” Maki shares. “Becoming more comfortable in her own skin, realizing she already had all the tools she needed, and trusting that her ideas were inherently good were what ultimately helped her come into her own.”
Janelle and Paula’s relationship is at the heart of Dream Productions, anchoring the series with its blend of humor and emotional depth. Their dynamic invites thoughtful discussions about valuing others’ perspectives in the workplace, collaborating to achieve a shared purpose—crafting dreams that enrich Riley’s life—and striking the delicate balance between adaptability and assertiveness.
Watch Dream Productions on Disney+ beginning December 11.
By Cecilia Sarantopoulos
Prepare to journey deeper into the subconscious of Riley (voiced by Kensington Tallman) as Disney and Pixar unveil Dream Productions, a four-episode series available now on Disney+. Set between Inside Out and Inside Out 2, Dream Productions explores the intricate workings of the fantastical studio where Riley’s night dreams are crafted, daydreams take shape, and the occasional nightmare sneaks in.
The series brings back fan-favorite, primary Emotions—Joy (voiced by Amy Poehler), Sadness (voiced by Phyllis Smith), Anger (voiced by Lewis Black), Disgust (voiced by Liza Lapira), and Fear (voiced by Tony Hale)—while introducing a dynamic roster of newcomers. Leading the charge is Paula Persimmon (voiced by Paula Pell), an overworked but spirited director at Dream Productions, with her dedicated assistant Janelle (voiced by Ally Maki), who’s as talented as she is underappreciated. Joining them are Xeni (voiced by Richard Ayoade), an eccentric indie filmmaker specializing in Daydreams, and Jean (voiced by Maya Rudolph), the formidable head of production who exudes authority with every word.
Although Dream Productions made its first appearance in Inside Out, it quickly piqued the filmmakers’ interest as the foundation for a standalone project. “We’re fascinated by the universality of dreams—the way everyone experiences them, how strange and surreal they can be. Yet we’re often left wondering, ‘Where do they come from? Who creates them, and who guides us through them in our waking lives?’” producer Jaclyn Simon says. To bring the concept to life, the filmmakers conducted extensive research, consulting dream experts and exploring the science behind sleep and dreams.
One of the most distinctive features of the series is its mockumentary format, which places handheld cinematography, fourth wall-breaking moments, and candid testimonials at the forefront—an approach never before seen in Pixar’s extensive animation portfolio. “I find it particularly funny doing it with characters we’re already familiar with because we’ve never seen them talk directly to the camera before—there’s something really exciting about that,” director Valerie LaPoint says. This style infuses the show with a laid-back, relatable tone, making it easy to envision Dream Productions as a tangible, bustling studio, perhaps located in the heart of Emeryville or Burbank.
The tight deadlines, high stakes, and chaotic writers’ room all add to the humor, making the show’s portrayal of the entertainment workspace feel all the more authentic. “One of the funny moments in the show is Paula bringing her dog, Melatonin ‘Mel,’ to work—playing on how certain directors, spoiled by their success, annoyingly bring their dogs to a set that’s already hectic enough,” director Austin Madison observes.
Dream Productions captures the unpredictable, often comical nature of working in a creative space—while keeping Riley’s well-being at the heart of every challenge. “Everything has to be about Riley, and trying to help her,” adds LaPoint. The blend of humor and heart creates a world that feels both whimsical and meaningful without ever losing sight of its central purpose.
Watch Dream Productions on Disney+ beginning December 11.
By Alison Stateman
When Disney’s Mufasa: The Lion King roars into theaters on December 20, fans will travel back in time to see how this king of beasts came to be royalty…
The feature film explores the unlikely rise of the majestic king of the Pride Lands, enlisting Rafiki—voiced by Kagiso Lediga as younger Rafiki and John Kani as the elder version—to relay the legend of Mufasa to young lion cub Kiara (voiced by Blue Ivy Carter), daughter of Simba (voiced by Donald Glover) and Nala (voiced by Beyoncé Knowles-Carter). Along the way, Timon (voiced by Billy Eichner) and Pumbaa (voiced by Seth Rogen) lend their signature schtick. The film offers deeper takes on equally beloved characters, including Taka aka Scar (voiced by Kelvin Harrison Jr.) and Sarabi (voiced by Tiffany Boone).
Members of the cast—joined by Oscar®-winning director Barry Jenkins (Moonlight) and celebrated songwriter Lin-Manuel Miranda (Encanto, Moana), who wrote original music for the film—spoke about making legacy characters their own during a press event earlier this week.
Mufasa
The character of Mufasa has long been revered by audiences around the world. Originally brought to life by Disney Legend James Earl Jones in 1994’s animated classic and again for the 2019 version directed by Disney Legend Jon Favreau—Mufasa represented the perfect father figure, role model, advisor, and leader. “[James’] voice was so warm. It was so comforting. It was full of strength and clarity. That’s what I connected to the first time I ever engaged with [the film],” says Pierre, who voices Mufasa in the new prequel. As a cub, Mufasa shows hints of the confident and courageous king he will one day become, but he’s faced with unimaginable tragedy early in his life that leaves him all alone—far away from his family and everything he’s ever known. Befriended by another lion cub, Mufasa finds brotherhood and, eventually, purpose when he’s once again ousted from his home and forced on a life-changing journey.
“When we meet Mufasa [in the original film], he is king. He’s really unshakable,” Pierre says. “What we learn [in the new film] is that there was a journey to that point—and the beginning of that journey involved being separated from his family, becoming an orphan, being ostracized, being degraded, dismissed. And despite all those circumstances, [Mufasa] embraces everything that is and channels it into something that elevates himself and elevates the people around him.”
Taka
Taka—well known to fans by his later incarnation as Uncle Scar—is a lion from an esteemed royal bloodline. As a cub, he’s eager to please with an eye for those in need, particularly a lone lion cub named Mufasa who’s caught in a flash flood. The pair form a tight bond, joining forces when a band of powerful lions threatens Taka’s family and future. Their ultimate cross-country adventure reveals truths about both lions that will follow them into adulthood. For Harrison, bringing to life his favorite Disney Villain was irresistible. However, to do the part justice, he says he adopted an open-minded approach.
“The biggest thing was just not to judge him. I enjoyed him so much in the original version. I was like, ‘He’s so playful, so lively.’ All those characteristics remain true in this,” the actor shares. “My first conversation with Barry [Jenkins] was to just stay present, stay in the moment with Taka and allow his instincts and his natural tendencies and his love of life and people in the community to shine through.”
Sarabi
Sarabi is confident and courageous—the ideal future queen. But as a young lioness, she finds herself without her pride after a rogue group of lions shows up. She may be perfectly capable of taking care of herself, but she also recognizes that there is strength in numbers. Fans of the animated film have long appreciated the strength and self-assuredness in Sarabi. “In the original, you see her as a wife and a mother in this really graceful, wise, loving woman. You get to see what brought her to that place of wisdom. She’s lost everything when we find her in this film,” Boone explains.
She continues, “I connected with her right away. A lot of times when we were recording, [I’d be asked to] put in that sassiness, that fire. And I think that’s just naturally in me. I related to her looking for her tribe and looking for a place, trying to be tough while at the same time, right below the surface, there’s a lot of vulnerability. I think that’s how I am. It was fun to play a character that I connected with so much.”
Pumbaa & Timon
It would be impossible to describe one without referencing the other. As Simba’s friends and confidants, wisecracking meerkat Timon and gassy warthog Pumbaa are an integral part of the kingdom under their friend’s reign. That bond extends to Simba’s family, particularly daughter Kiara , who relies on their good humor, especially when her parents are away. Like the young lioness, Timon and Pumbaa are riveted by Rafiki’s tale—but that doesn’t mean they don’t interrupt every chance they can to infuse it with a little fun. Eichner and Rogen both say they felt a “little more confident” taking on the roles of Timon and Pumbaa this time around.
“I think they’re kind of outcasts. They have a strong bond. They have a good friendship. I think they are very relatable in many ways. When I was a kid and I saw the original, I always really gravitated to Timon and Pumbaa. I for sure related more to the loser who farts more than anyone,” Rogen says, drawing laughs from his castmates. “I also just thought they were really funny. There are very heavy themes in this film, and it’s amazing how well Barry modulated the heaviness and the lightness. It was really fun to get to participate in that.”
Adds Eichner, “We were given a shocking, dangerous, amount of freedom to improv considering the epic scale of this film. The fact that they brought Seth and me in and the fact that we got to riff so much and, even more surprisingly, the amount of it that ends up in this Disney family spectacular is really stunning.”