From Marvel blockbusters to Pixar sequels, Disney is stacking its 2028 theatrical lineup with highly anticipated projects. Disney is gearing up for a major year at the box office. Notably, the lineup was revealed at D23, which always creates excitement among fans and insiders.
During D23, the official Walt Disney fan club which reveals exclusive announcements for the franchise, the studio revealed several additions and updates to its 2028 theatrical schedule. As a result, audiences received an early look at what could become one of its biggest movie lineups yet. The slate includes new Marvel projects, live-action adaptations and highly anticipated Pixar sequels. The impact of D23 announcements is already being felt in the entertainment industry.
Many outlets report it could be another record breaking box-office year similar to 2019 which skyrocketed to $13.15B.
Pixar’s ‘Ghost Market’ kicks off the lineup
Pixar is set to release its original animated feature Ghost Market on March 10, 2028. After its reveal at D23, expectations are high for this new film and its ability to launch the Disney year.
The film currently has little direct competition from other major wide releases on its release date. Therefore, the upcoming Pixar project has room to make an impact when it arrives in theaters.
While details surrounding the film remain limited, its position on Disney’s schedule makes it one of the studio’s first major theatrical releases of the year.
‘Tangled’ gets the live-action treatment
GettyDisney will continue its run of live-action adaptations with Tangled, scheduled to hit theaters March 31, 2028.
The film will bring the beloved 2010 animated story to life in a new format. This follows the success of Disney’s long-running strategy of reimagining its animated classics for modern audiences. In addition, the convention revealed the long awaited casting, including Kathryn Hahn as Mother Gothel.
The release is currently positioned one week before Sony’s The Beatles – Four Films: The Beginning, which is scheduled for April 7.
Marvel prepares for the return of the X-Men
Marvel Studios is also making a major move with its upcoming X-Men film (A personal fave franchise) which is currently dated for May 5, 2028.
The project will mark another major chapter for the mutant characters as they officially become part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s larger storyline. Moreover, D23 has become the go-to destination for first news on projects like this one.
During the D23 presentation, Hugh Jackman appeared via video, although his appearance did not confirm a return as Wolverine. That leaves plenty of questions surrounding which familiar characters could appear when Marvel’s new era of X-Men finally arrives.
‘Lilo & Stitch 2’ and ‘Incredibles 3’ are also on the way
Disney’s live-action Lilo & Stitch 2 is scheduled for May 28, landing over Memorial Day weekend.
The sequel follows the massive success of the first live-action Lilo & Stitch. This makes the follow-up one of Disney’s biggest family releases of the year.
Pixar will then return with Incredibles 3 on June 16.
The third installment will continue the story of the Parr family, with Violet, Dash and Jack-Jack as our main focus. Taking on new challenges as their superhero abilities continue to develop. The original franchise remains one of Pixar’s biggest successes, with Incredibles 2 earning more than $1 billion globally.
Marvel’s ‘Ghost Rider’ and ‘Black Panther 3’ round out the year
GettyMarvel’s Ghost Rider is also planned for 2028, although Disney has not announced a specific release date. The film is expected to star Ryan Gosling and be directed by Shawn Levy. With this announcement at D23, fans now eagerly await more cast updates.
The year will ultimately close with another major Marvel release.
With Marvel, Pixar and Disney’s live-action adaptations all represented, the studio’s 2028 schedule is already shaping up to be packed with major theatrical releases.
Disney is betting big on familiar franchises
From the return of the Parr family to the next chapter of Black Panther, Disney’s upcoming slate heavily leans into recognizable franchises. At the same time, it continues to introduce new original stories. Lastly, it is clear that D23 will continue to be a crucial platform for all future Disney reveal events.
If the studio sticks to its current schedule, 2028 could be a particularly significant year for Disney at the box office. Major releases are expected to arrive throughout nearly every part of the year.
