The forces are strong with Disney’s Super Bowl 57 ad.
On Sunday, ahead of the matchup between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles, Disney debuted a surprise Super Bowl 57 ad in honor of its upcoming 100th anniversary, which will take place on October 16, 2023.
The one-and-a-half-minute commercial, titled “Disney 100 Special Look”, would air during the game as a surprise for fans and feature scenes from iconic Disney IP, including several moments from the Star Wars franchise; sequences from animated films such as Lion King, Frozen and Encanto; and behind-the-scenes moments from stage productions, theme parks, and fans.
“As we celebrate our historic 100th anniversary, it is remarkable to look back at the legacy of Walt Disney and his passionate pursuit of excellence that continues to drive the company today. We look forward to celebrating our history,” CEO Bob Iger said in a statement. Incredibly grateful to the generations of people all over the world for being such a special part and inviting their stories and characters into their lives over the past century.” Disney100 is a big thank you to all of our fans and families, and to our storytellers and creative visionaries. celebration, whose talents and imaginations have created the magical moments that have made Disney an enduring part of global culture.”
Along with the ad, Disney touted its upcoming anniversary events in a statement, including Disney 100: The Exhibit’s world premiere on February 18 at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, PA. and immersive technology, according to the company.
In addition to the surprise ad, Disney is reportedly set to debut several trailers during the Super Bowl for its upcoming theatrical releases from Pixar, Marvel Studios, and Lucasfilm. Currently expected trailers for The Little Mermaid, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, Elemental and The Marvels.
Of course, questions may arise over the timing of the celebratory ad. In a recent earnings call, Iger announced a major reorganization that disbands Disney Media and Entertainment Distribution Group, which under former CEO Bob Chapek, has been split into three separate segments: Disney Entertainment, ESPN and Parks, Experiences. Made in favor of End Products Group. Amid the restructuring, and massive customer and revenue losses, the company plans to lay off 7,000 employees.
During the restructuring announcement, Iger also said the company would lean into proven IP with planned films from the Toy Story, Frozen and Zootopia franchises.
