In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Disney has shuffled some of the release dates for a few of its movies, while changing the release formats of others. While Cruella will still release in theaters, it's also coming to Disney+ with a Premiere Access charge in May. Meanwhile, Pixar's Luca will be skipping theaters entirely and will instead debut exclusively on Disney+.
What's more, Luca will not be gated behind the $30 Premiere Access fee that is sometimes attached to some of Disney's feature films (like Mulan, Raya and the Last Dragon and soon Cruella). Instead, Luca will follow in the steps of Soul and will be available for all Disney+ subscribers at no extra charge when it debuts on June 18. Soul, another Pixar film, released directly on Disney+ for free back in December and it was one of the most-watched films at the time.
In international markets where Disney+ has not launched, Luca will be released theatrically. Premiere dates will soon be announced.
Although COVID-19 cases have dropped in recent weeks, the film industry has not quite rebounded as quickly. While Disney had been playing its cards close to the chest regarding its upcoming slate of films, it appears the company is not quite ready to return to the traditional theatrical release format.
“Today’s announcement reflects our focus on providing consumer choice and serving the evolving preferences of audiences," said Kareem Daniel, chairman, Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution. "By leveraging a flexible distribution strategy in a dynamic marketplace that is beginning to recover from the global pandemic, we will continue to employ the best options to deliver The Walt Disney Company’s unparalleled storytelling to fans and families around the world."
Luca is directed by Enrico Casarosa (La Luna) and takes us to the Italian Riviera with the promise of a summer like never before. A teaser was released last month, giving us our first look at what looks like a fun and heartwarming coming-of-age story about friendship and stepping out of your comfort zone.
Set in a beautiful seaside town on the Italian Riviera, Disney and Pixar’s original feature film “Luca” is a coming-of-age story about one young boy experiencing an unforgettable summer filled with gelato, pasta and endless scooter rides. Luca shares these adventures with his newfound best friend, but all the fun is threatened by a deeply-held secret: they are sea monsters from another world just below the water’s surface. Directed by Academy Award® nominee Enrico Casarosa (“La Luna”) and produced by Andrea Warren (“Lava,” “Cars 3”), “Luca” releases Summer 2021.
Are you excited for Luca's Disney+ release on June 18, 2021?