Disney Tugs Hearts with Christmas Ad by Oscar-Winning Director
A Heartwarming Christmas Advert from Disney
Disney has taken a different approach this year with its Christmas advert, focusing on emotional storytelling rather than nostalgia. The commercial, directed by Oscar-winning director Taika Waititi, tells a touching story about a young girl named Molly and her doodle, Doodle.
The advert is inspired by the Toy Story franchise, where a character's creation comes to life. In this case, Molly draws a scribbly doodle on her letter to Santa Claus, expressing what she wants for Christmas. When the big day arrives, she receives not only traditional gifts like Lego and a stuffed toy but also her doodle, which becomes a living creature.
Doodle is a vibrant character with a yellow head, blue hair, a multi-coloured body, wonky blue eyes, red antennae, curly arms, and small feet. However, he cannot speak because he doesn’t have a mouth. This limitation causes him to feel increasingly sad throughout the year.
On Halloween, Molly takes Doodle trick or treating, and they both dress as vampires. While Molly can show off her fake fangs, Doodle can only hold them in one of his hands. The next Christmas, they go out to listen to carol singers, but Doodle can only hum in a high-pitched manner. The carol singers stop abruptly, giving him an incredulous look, and Doodle runs up to Molly's room.
As Molly checks on him, she sees Doodle holding her Stitch toy from Lilo & Stitch, imagining what he might look like if he had a mouth. On Christmas Day, Molly and Doodle run down the stairs in excitement. She tears open a present, revealing a Mr Potatohead. She quickly pulls the mouth and moustache off Mr Potatohead and sticks it onto Doodle's face.
Doodle is initially confused by the development but soon realizes he now has a mouth and can talk.
Taika Waititi expressed his enthusiasm for creating another short film for Disney, calling it his "only job." He also directed The Boy & The Octopus in 2024 and hopes to continue the Disney Christmas Short universe. For him, it's like making a Disney film without the five-year workload. He loves creating emotional stories with fantastical elements that highlight classic Disney themes such as friendship, being true to oneself, and putting others before you.
Taika, who is married to pop star Rita Ora, revealed there are subtle Easter eggs in the short film, including Heihei from Moana and balloons from Up. He believes these elements are very subtle and mainly around the house.
This heartwarming tale showcases the magic of imagination and the importance of self-expression. It reminds us that sometimes, the most unexpected things can bring joy and connection. As the holiday season approaches, Disney's latest creation is sure to touch the hearts of many.
