Disney and Pixar have officially confirmed that a sequel to the beloved animated film Coco is in development, much to the excitement of fans worldwide. During a recent shareholder meeting held on March 20, 2025, Bob Iger, the CEO of Disney, revealed that Coco 2 is slated for release in 2029. The original film, which explored themes of family and cultural heritage through the lens of the Mexican holiday, Dia de los Muertos, garnered significant acclaim following its release in 2017, earning over $800 million globally and winning two Academy Awards for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song for 'Remember Me'.
While details surrounding the plot of Coco 2 are still under wraps, excitement is palpable. Iger stated, "Although the movie is still in its early stages, we know it will be full of humor, heart, and adventure." This sentiment resonates with many who hold the first film dear, which beautifully portrays the story of Miguel, a 12-year-old boy aspiring to become a musician despite his family's generational ban on music.
Fans of the original movie are expressing varied reactions to the announcement on social media. While some are eagerly anticipating the sequel, others express concerns that there may be no need for a second installment. One comment captured the essence of the sentiment: "We are excited. I hope they keep the story interconnected with the original, as it has immense emotional significance to many families."
The first Coco film, directed by Lee Unkrich and Adrian Molina, was celebrated not only for its rich storytelling and stunning animation, but also for its deep cultural roots celebrating the Mexican tradition of remembering loved ones who have passed away. From vibrant visual storytelling to a powerful score, the film connected with audiences across a wide spectrum.
As anticipation builds, many fans and cultural commentators wonder how Coco 2 will honor the themes of its predecessor while bringing fresh narratives to the beloved character of Miguel. Beyond returning characters, there’s hope that new family dynamics and experiences will be woven into the sequel to expand the narrative scope.
Coco received accolades beyond the Oscars, including a Golden Globe, and a BAFTA, underscoring its broader impact within the film industry. With the first film becoming a cultural milestone as Pixar's first to be led by a Mexican protagonist and nearly entirely Latino cast, there is hope that the sequel will also delve into relevant cultural narratives that resonate with newer generations.
The announcement of Coco 2 has already sparked a flurry of creative expressions online, with fans sharing humorous memes and mixed sentiments regarding the sequel's potential. One fan humorously remarked, “I’ll not stress about this until 2029.” Nevertheless, the buzz surrounding the production continues to grow.
Further involvement from the original creative team indicates a commitment to authenticity and quality. Not only are Unkrich and Molina set to return as directors, but Mark Nielsen, who has an Oscar under his belt for Inside Out, will produce the sequel. With this steadfast team in place, many are hopeful that Coco 2 will continue to honor the rich traditions and themes that made the first film a success.
In light of the significant cultural richness depicted in Coco, animation enthusiasts and general audiences alike are set to watch how the sequel will unfold. As any artist knows, the challenge of a sequel is to maintain the essence of what fans loved while offering something new and engaging. With the foundation laid by the first film, Coco 2 has considerable expectations to meet.
As the film draws closer to its anticipated release, one can expect a more extensive exploration of character development unfolding before the audience, delving deeper into Miguel's journey and aspirations. Speculation continues about whether familiar faces such as Anthony Gonzalez, who voiced Miguel, and Gael García Bernal, as Héctor, will reprise their roles as the story returns to the ever-evocative realm of the Land of the Dead.
Though Fox and Disney have held a significant presence on the silver screen, especially with animations deeply rooted in rich cultural representation, Coco’s legacy is still paramount for Pixar. As they set to breathe life into Coco 2, fans are left with hopeful anticipation for a sequel that will celebrate the triumphant spirit of music, family, and the unique cultural tapestry that made the first film resonate with so many.
All eyes will be on Disney and Pixar in the coming years as they keep fans informed about further developments and teasers of what Coco 2 will bring to the table. Excitement is sure to unfold as they honor the legacy of a film that has already had a profound impact on both cinema and cultural conversations.
