Walt Disney Animation Studios has unveiled the first official poster and teaser for Hexed, its all-new original animated feature set to enchant theaters on November 25, 2026.

The vibrant key art, shared directly by the studio, showcases a dynamic teenage girl levitating amid swirling magic, floating school supplies, and an enchanted backpack, promising a fresh blend of coming-of-age heart and whimsical fantasy.

The poster features Billie Doe, voiced by Hailee Steinfeld, mid-air with flowing magenta-streaked hair, casting sparks from her fingertips against a vibrant purple magical backdrop. Taglines tease “Something is happening to Billie…” and highlight the film as coming from the studio behind Frozen and Zootopia.

The title Hexed glows prominently with a crescent moon motif, evoking witchcraft and wonder.

Hexed marks Disney Animation’s 65th feature and follows Billie, an impulsive and unconventional teenage girl whose “weirdness” turns out to be latent magical powers. Her discoveries transport her and her Type-A mother, Alice (voiced by Rashida Jones), from ordinary suburbia into Hexe- a hidden, vibrant realm of witches filled with secrets, adventure, and family revelations.

The story explores themes of self-acceptance, mother-daughter bonds, and embracing what makes one different.

Joining Steinfeld and Jones are acclaimed talents Tracey Ullman as the enchanted feather quill pen Ms. Quill and Stephen Fry as the magical journal Elias Quire. The voice cast brings a mix of youthful energy and seasoned wit to the fantastical world.

Directing the project are Fawn Veerasunthorn (Raya and the Last Dragon) and Jason Hand (Moana 2 co-director), with Josie Trinidad (Zootopia, Ralph Breaks the Internet) serving as co-director. Roy Conli and Yvett Merino produce. The creative team has a strong track record of delivering emotionally resonant stories with groundbreaking animation.

Early visuals suggest Hexed will deliver Disney’s signature lush, detailed animation style- think glowing spells, whimsical character designs, and immersive environments that blend everyday teen life with high-fantasy spectacle. The teaser trailer reportedly emphasizes Billie’s chaotic discovery of powers, portal-jumping excitement, and the contrast between mundane home life and the colorful witch world.

This release slots into a busy period for Disney Animation following other 2026 offerings and positions Hexed as a Thanksgiving holiday counter-programming choice, appealing to families seeking original storytelling over sequels. It arrives amid renewed interest in witch-centric and magical-girl narratives, though some online observers have noted stylistic or thematic similarities to properties like The Owl House, a comparison fans defend as rooted in timeless portal-fantasy tropes from The Wizard of Oz onward.

Public Reactions

Reactions to the announcement have been largely positive, with praise for the eye-catching poster, Steinfeld’s fit for the lead role, and the promise of fresh magic from Disney. Many are excited for another original story in an era dominated by franchises. Others express cautious optimism, hoping the film delivers strong character work and avoids overly familiar beats.

Some viewers have called for more traditional 2D elements or voiced concerns about modern storytelling trends, but the vibrant reveal has generated significant buzz.

Hexed continues Disney Animation’s tradition of empowering young protagonists while delving into family dynamics much like Encanto’s focus on generational gifts or Frozen’s sisterly love. Here, the mother-daughter duo at the center offers potential for humor, heart, and growth as they navigate secrets in the magical realm.

Billie’s journey from feeling out of place to mastering her abilities is expected to resonate with young audiences exploring identity and belonging.

Industry watchers see the November 25 date as strategic, capitalizing on holiday moviegoing while giving the film breathing room from summer blockbusters. Marketing will likely ramp up with more trailer drops, character reveals, and immersive experiences leading into the fall.

The project underscores Walt Disney Animation Studios’ commitment to innovation in both technology and narrative, blending cutting-edge CGI with timeless fairy-tale charm.

As “let the magic begin” echoes across social media, anticipation builds for what could be a spellbinding addition to Disney’s canon.