Disney Announces New Animated Short-Film “An Almost Christmas Story”

Disney Branded Television has unveiled a heartwarming new animated short-film, “An Almost Christmas Story,” set to premiere this fall on Disney+. The film, directed by acclaimed filmmaker David Lowery and produced by five-time Academy Award winner Alfonso Cuarón, is inspired by the true story of a tiny owl named Rocky who was found and rescued from the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree in 2020.

“An Almost Christmas Story” follows Moon, a curious young owl who finds himself trapped in a Christmas tree destined for Rockefeller Plaza. Befriending a lost little girl named Luna, Moon embarks on a magical journey through the bustling city, discovering the spirit of the holiday season and forming an unlikely bond.

The talented voice cast includes Cary Christopher as Moon, newcomer Estella Madrigal as Luna, Jim Gaffigan as Papa Owl, Mamoudou Athie as Pelly, Alex Ross Perry as Dave The Dog, Gianna Joseph as Peaky, Phil Rosenthal as Punt,Natasha Lyonne as Pat, and John C. Reilly as The Folk Singer.

“An Almost Christmas Story” marks the third and final installment in Cuarón’s holiday shorts collection. His previous shorts, “Le Pupille” and “The Shepherd,” both live-action, earned critical acclaim and Oscar nominations.

Produced by Disney Branded Television and Cuarón’s Esperanto Filmoj, in association with Titmouse and Maere Studios,with animation services by 88 Pictures, the film features a celebrated creative team including Lowery, Cuarón, Gabriela Rodríguez, Jack Thorne, Nicholas Ashe Bateman, and Daniel Hart.