Award-winning filmmaker Taika Waititi has directed a new holiday short for Disney, featuring the voice of Disney Legend John Goodman. The film, titled “A Disney Holiday Short: Best Christmas Ever,” is now available on Disney+ and online. The story centers on a young girl whose doodle comes to life after Santa mistakes her drawing for a holiday wish, highlighting themes of imagination and friendship.
Disney’s holiday campaign also includes the Holiday Magic Tour, which will visit more than 20 cities worldwide. The tour aims to bring joy to children and families through community events, donations, toy deliveries, exclusive screenings, and other activities at schools, hospitals, and nonprofit organizations.
Joanna Balikian, Senior Vice President of Brand Management at Disney, said: “For generations, Disney has been part of how families celebrate the holidays—through the impact we have in communities, the stories we share, and the lifelong memories we help create that bring people together. This year, Disney is continuing that legacy of making magic during the holidays all over the world.”
The character Doodle in the new short is voiced by John Goodman. Eric Goldberg from Walt Disney Animation Studios advised on animation for this project alongside Untold Studios and creative agency adam&eveDDB. Last year’s Emmy-nominated “A Disney Holiday Short: The Boy & The Octopus” was also directed by Waititi.
Taika Waititi commented: “What makes this story uniquely Disney is the fact that it’s set in the world of a kid. It’s a kid and her new best friend, navigating the complex world together, and doing it just with the power of friendship and imagination.”
Disney’s collaboration with Marine Toys for Tots continues this year as part of its longstanding tradition to deliver toys to children in need during the holidays—a partnership started by Walt Disney over 75 years ago. People can participate in this effort by donating toys through December 24 or visiting select locations including Disney Stores and resorts until December 14.
This season also features themed experiences at Disney Parks and Resorts as well as products inspired by popular characters from franchises such as Pixar, Marvel, Star WarsTM, and others. Fans can enjoy classic films like “Home Alone” on Disney+ or look forward to new releases such as “A Very Jonas Christmas Movie,” which will be available for streaming starting November 14.
More information about these initiatives can be found at https://www.disney.com/HolidayMagic.
