Get ready for another Pixar sequel as we're getting Coco 2 in a few years!
Like it or not, Disney and Pixar seem intent on focusing on sequels to their past animated hits. True, Pixar does have Elio coming out this summer for an original tale, but the future slate for them and regular Disney animation builds on the hit status of Inside Out 2.
It appears easier for Disney to mine past successful IP than take a chance ons something new that can disapoint (such as Wish). So we're getting new installments for Zootopia, Frozen and Toy Story. Now, we can add another big Pixar sequel with Coco 2!
During the annual Walt Disney shareholders meeting, CEO Bob Iger confirmed that a sequel to the 2017 Oscar-winning hit is in the works. Per the release, the film reunites directors Lee Unkrich and Adrian Molina, with Mark Neilsen producing. The film is targeted for a 2029 release.
While the film is just in the initial stages, we know it will be full of humor, heart and adventure," said Iger. "And we can't wait to share more soon."
It sounds like a fun return for what was one of Pixar's best recent films. The original Coco centered around the title character, a young boy who wants to become a musician despite his family banning music. He takes a trip into the afterlife, meeting a variety of spirits and uncovering family secrets.
The movie was a box office hit that also won Oscars for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song "Remember Me." A sequel was likely inevitable with its growing presence at the parks.
Coco's park presence is growing
Coco has had a presence in the Disney parks for a while. The obvious is meet and greets with some of the characters at California Adventure and the Mexico pavilion at EPCOT. There was also a scene of Coco singing added to Mickey's PhilharmMagic 3-D movie.
The character just popped up in Disneyland's version of It's a Small World. Plans are underway for a boat ride to be added to Disneyland's California Adventure that takes guests on a journey into the Land of the Dead. The sequel just pushes the concepts further.
We don't know what the story is yet as the first film seemed to wrap things up with Coco discovering his father's identity and helping his family love music again. It's likely to take another trip to the afterlife, perhaps mixing in other areas of the Land of the Dead. It's also sure to have more amazing music.
While some fans may complain about the emphasis on sequels, Pixar does have a magic touch with them. Given Coco was one of the best films the company produced in the 2010s, packed with emotion and some glorious visuals, a sequel can only enhance that.
It'll be a few years before this hits, but Pixar fans can add Coco 2 to the list of must-watch movies to expand the animation giant's resume!
Coco streaming on Disney+.