Disney has announced the release of its holiday short film for 2025, featuring a charming character named “Doodle,” voiced by the beloved actor John Goodman. The film centers around a young girl who writes a Christmas list for Santa, including a doodle that magically comes to life. As the story unfolds, the girl and Doodle embark on a heartwarming adventure, highlighting the power of imagination and friendship.
The narrative takes a poignant turn as Doodle longs for a mouth to express himself. In a touching moment, the girl requests a Mr. Potato Head toy, from which she can remove the mouth and gift it to Doodle, allowing him to communicate freely. This clever twist adds depth to the story, demonstrating the importance of understanding and empathy.
Creative Direction and Easter Eggs
Directed by the acclaimed filmmaker Taika Waititi, who previously helmed last year’s short, The Boy & The Octopus, the film aims to capture the essence of childhood wonder. Waititi emphasized that the story uniquely embodies Disney’s spirit, focusing on a child and her new best friend navigating their world together.
In discussing the film’s creative elements, Waititi expressed enthusiasm for incorporating nods to beloved Disney characters and films. He mentioned, “It’s always nice and fun to be able to put in Easter eggs from other things too. I mean, at one point we had way too many! That kid’s bedroom was like she owned a Disney store!” This attention to detail enriches the viewing experience, inviting audiences to spot familiar references.
Goodman shared his own excitement about participating in Disney projects, noting the timeless quality of their storytelling. “I’ve always loved being part of Disney stories because there’s a timelessness to Disney’s storytelling – it’s fun, it’s heartfelt, and it reminds families of what really matters,” he stated.
Future of Disney Shorts
Waititi expressed interest in continuing his collaboration with Disney, envisioning a series of Christmas shorts that explore various themes. “I would love for the Taika Waititi Disney Christmas Short universe to just keep going, so we could try and do new, different things every year,” he said. He highlighted the joy of crafting emotional stories within the framework of classic Disney themes, such as friendship and selflessness, all in a condensed format.
As the film concludes, it encapsulates the core message of “Make someone’s holiday magic,” staying true to Disney’s enchanting tradition. With its engaging narrative and heartfelt performances, the upcoming release promises to resonate with audiences of all ages, fostering the spirit of the holiday season.
Fans eagerly anticipate the film’s premiere, which is set to bring warmth and joy to homes around the world this Christmas.
