In the midst of pandemic shutdowns and Hollywood labor strikes, The Walt Disney Company has faced challenges with its theatrical business. Productions were stalled, and moviegoers’ habits shifted, leading to revenue woes for the company. CEO Bob Iger acknowledged that the quality of Disney’s films suffered due to the focus on churning out a large quantity of content. The disconnect with audiences further exacerbated the situation, prompting Iger to make changes upon his return in late 2022.
Iger stressed the importance of quality over quantity, especially for renowned brands like Marvel. He emphasized the need for selectivity when deciding which sequels to greenlight, acknowledging that not all projects are guaranteed success. Additionally, Iger made it clear that storytelling should take precedence over messaging, a shift in focus for Disney’s creative team and partners.
The recent announcement of Disney’s new theatrical schedule includes several iconic franchises and releases aimed at adult audiences. While the “Moana” sequel has been delayed to July 2026 from its original 2025 slot, other films have been rescheduled for earlier or later release dates. “The Amateur,” featuring Rami Malek, moved to April 2025 from November 2024, and “Nightbitch,” starring Amy Adams, is now set for a December 2024 premiere.
Among the upcoming films highlighted in Disney’s updated slate is a project centered on the popular duo from the Disney+ series “The Mandalorian.” Titled “The Mandalorian & Grogu,” the Star Wars film is scheduled for a theatrical release on May 22, 2026. Additionally, fans can look forward to a fifth installment in the beloved “Toy Story” franchise, hitting theaters on June 19, 2026. Furthermore, a new “Tron” movie titled “Tron: Ares” is set to premiere on Oct. 10, 2025, adding to the anticipation surrounding Disney’s future releases.
Disney’s unveiling of its new theatrical schedule marks a strategic move to revitalize its entertainment offerings and reconnect with audiences. With a renewed focus on quality storytelling and selective content production, the company aims to overcome its previous challenges and regain its position as a leading player in the entertainment industry.