As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to stretch on and on, more and more movies are being delayed to 2021. But Disney and Pixar are going a different way, releasing their upcoming film Soul directly to Disney+ on Christmas Day.
The best part is that the film will not cost extra and will be a part of the streaming service’s regular line-up of content. This is a different strategy from the release of the live-action Mulan, which was available for a $30 premium on top of the subscription fee.
According to Variety, the decision to move the animated feature to streaming only had been in consideration since its initial rescheduling from June to November. And given that The Croods: New Age had changed its date to come out at the same time, the choice was likely easy. For markets where Disney+ is not available, the company has vowed to release it in theaters in 2021 when theaters begin re-opening.
“We are thrilled to share Pixar’s spectacular and moving Soul with audiences direct to Disney+ in December,” said Bob Chapek, chief executive officer of The Walt Disney Company. “A new original Pixar film is always a special occasion, and this truly heartwarming and humorous story about human connection and finding one’s place in the world will be a treat for families to enjoy together this holiday season.”
Soul premieres on Disney+ on December 25, 2020.
