‘Coco 2’ set for November 2029 theatrical release

Miguel is back in the Land of the Dead in the first look at “Coco 2.”

At D23, Disney revealed new concept art from the film, which depicts a teenage Miguel alongside his beloved dog, Dante. The company also revealed that the Pixar sequel is set to hit theaters in November 2029 and that Benjamin Bratt will reprise the role of Ernesto de la Cruz.

Onstage at the event, Bratt touched on the new movie’s storyline. “To some, Miguel is a little menace who ruined a career and destroyed a legacy,” he said. “Ernesto de la Cruz is back for revenge, sending Miguel on an adventure back to the land of the dead. Proving fate has a sense of humor, Miguel must team up with a handsome superstar: me.”

Original “Coco” director Lee Unkrich is returning to direct with Adrian Molina. Mark Nielsen, a Pixar veteran known for “Toy Story 4” and “Inside Out 2,” is attached to produce.

The first “Coco” released in theaters back in 2017 over the Thanksgiving holiday and became a hit with both critics and audiences. It grossed over $800 million at the global box office and won two Oscars, for best animated feature and best original song with “Remember Me.” The original film follows a young boy named Miguel who feels a calling to music against his family’s wishes. On the Mexican holiday of Dia de Los Muertos, he goes on an adventure to the Land of the Dead and uncovers his family’s secrets.

“Coco 2” is the latest Pixar sequel hoping to capitalize on the studio’s biggest successes from decades past. The studio’s recent releases include “Toy Story 5” and “Inside Out 2,” which both grossed over $1 billion worldwide, while their original slate has included “Hoppers,” “Elio” and “Elemental.” “The Incredibles 3” is the studio’s next sequel, set to release in 2028.

Unkrich also directed “Toy Story 3,” for which he won an Oscar, and co-directed early classics “Finding Nemo,” “Monsters, Inc.” and “Toy Story 2.” He had originally retired back in 2019 to spend time with family. Molina directed “Elio” and is credited for providing additional screenplay material on “The Good Dinosaur.”

-Variety