Disney's Aladdin Sequel, Best Animated Feature Oscar Winners, and New Animation Trailers

Disney's Aladdin Sequel Uncertainty

• 💡 The planned sequel to Disney's live-action "Aladdin" (2019) is in question following Will Smith's resignation from the Academy.
• 📌 While the sequel was reportedly still a go project as of October 2021, its future is now uncertain due to the "Aladdin" star's actions.
• 🎯 Disney has a history of promising sequels that never materialize, such as a potential "Jungle Book" sequel or an "Aladdin" spin-off.

Academy Awards Animation Segment Critiques

• 🎭 The live performance of "We Don't Talk About Bruno" from "Encanto" was criticized for its deviation from the original song and inclusion of celebrity cameos.
• 🎬 The presentation of the Best Animated Feature Oscar by live-action princesses was seen as a promotional tactic for upcoming Disney remakes, potentially downplaying animation.
• 🏆 The decision to cut the live presentation of the Best Animated Short Oscar was questioned, especially given the overall length of the ceremony.

Best Animated Feature Oscar Analysis (21 Years)

• 📊 The hosts reviewed the winners of the Best Animated Feature Oscar over the past 21 years, debating whether the "right" film always won.
• 🌟 Films like "Spirited Away," "Wall-E," "Up," "Toy Story 3," "Rango," "Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse," and "Soul" were highlighted as strong winners.
• 🤔 Debates arose around films like "Encanto" vs. "Luca" and "Mitchells vs. the Machines," and whether box office success unduly influenced awards.

New Animation Trailers and Projects

• 🌊 The trailer for Netflix's "The Sea Beast" was praised for its beautiful animation and classic seafaring adventure feel.
• 🤖 The "Minions: The Rise of Gru" trailer was met with less enthusiasm, though the inclusion of 80s/90s action stars as villains was noted.
• 🎬 "Everything Everywhere All at Once" was highlighted for its impressive visual effects achieved by a small team, with directors having turned down "Loki" to make it.
• 🏰 "Spellbound," an upcoming animated feature from Skydance Animation, will star Rachel Zegler and is tentatively slated for a holiday 2022 release.
• 🧊 The closure of Blue Sky Studios was lamented, with "Nimona" noted as a graphic novel with potential for a great animated film.
• 👻 Phil Tippet's "Mad God" is coming to Shudder and AMC Plus this summer, described as ambitious and nightmarish.