Disney announces 'Coco 2' for 2029—but who asked for it?
What's the story
Pixar has officially announced a sequel to its 2017 hit film, Coco.
Recently, Pixar took to its X account to announce Coco 2, which is slated to hit theaters in 2029.
The original Coco was a critical and commercial smash, grossing over $800 million worldwide and winning an Oscar for Best Animated Feature.
However, many fans are questioning the need for a sequel, given that the story of the Rivera family felt complete.
Mixed reactions
Fans are divided over 'Coco 2' announcement
The announcement of Coco 2 has sent social media into a frenzy, with fans split between excitement and skepticism.
While some are looking forward to the sequel, others are wondering if it can recapture the magic of the original film.
Pixar's post on the same was flooded with responses, from "This is the Pixar sequel we've all been waiting for!" to "Literally nobody asked for this."
Sequel speculation
'Coco 2' details remain scarce as fans speculate
Details about Coco 2 are still scant. The original director Lee Unkrich left Pixar in 2019, but a press release from Disney says he will be back for the sequel. Co-director Adrian Molina and Oscar-winning producer Mark Nielsen will also return.
Speculation about the sequel's storyline includes following Miguel as a teenager or exploring new stories in the Land of the Dead.
But without a clear direction, does Coco 2 even have a compelling reason to exist?
Sequel strategy
Disney's sequel strategy raises questions among fans
Disney's Coco 2 announcement continues its trend of making sequels for films that some may argue don't need.
Other recent and upcoming sequels include Inside Out 2 (2024), Zootopia 2 (2025), Frozen 3 (2026), and Toy Story 5.
This trend has raised concerns over Disney's creativity and its over-dependence on established IPs.
Fans are now wondering how long Disney can continue this before audiences get sequel-fatigued.
Legacy concern
Will 'Coco 2' live up to its predecessor?
The success of Coco 2 will depend on its emotional depth, like the original, which dealt with death, legacy, and family.
Coco followed 12-year-old Miguel who was accidentally transported to the Land of the Dead, where he sought his deceased great-great-grandfather's help to return and bring music back into his family.
The Broadway adaptation of Coco, announced in 2023 and still in development, indicates Disney sees longevity in the IP.