Disney's heartwarming holiday short "The Boy & The Octopus" has officially been nominated for an Emmy® Award in the Outstanding Commercial category at the 77th Emmy® Awards, announced yesterday by the Television Academy.
Originally released in November 2024, the animated short quickly captured the hearts of audiences worldwide, amassing over 75 million views across YouTube and Disney+ in just its first month. Created in collaboration with Academy Award® winner Taika Waititi, the film continues Disney's long-standing tradition of delivering emotionally resonant holiday storytelling.
"For generations, Disney has been an ever-present part of the holiday season all over the world, and this short builds on the enduring connection that so many families have with Disney during this special time of year. We're thrilled to collaborate with Taika Waititi on this timeless story of childhood friendship against the backdrop of this magical season," said Asad Ayaz, Chief Brand Officer, The Walt Disney Company.
"The Boy & The Octopus" follows the touching journey of a young boy who discovers a curious octopus clinging to his head during a seaside vacation. What begins as an unusual encounter blossoms into a heartfelt friendship. As the boy introduces his new friend to the wonders of life on land-like wielding a Jedi lightsaber, playing with a Buzz Lightyear action figure, and imagining Santa Claus' journey around the globe-the octopus gradually experiences the enchantment of the holiday season. Hidden under a Mickey Mouse beanie, the creature joins the boy on a whimsical exploration of holiday magic.
The story takes an emotional turn when the two watch the Disney holiday classic "The Santa Clause" (1994), sparking the boy's realization of the octopus's longing to see more of the world. What follows is a tender plan to give his friend the freedom to explore, reflecting themes of generosity, empathy, and the magic of shared moments.
Director Taika Waititi described the short as a perfect fusion of Disney magic and heartfelt holiday spirit.
"The story manages to connect the feelings that you get around the holidays, and the joy, the goodwill, and everything, with those same emotions and those same sensibilities you get from Disney films," said Waititi. "I think they go hand in hand and it's the perfect match - and only Disney could have made something like this…with me."
The film also includes delightful Easter eggs for Disney fans, with nods to beloved classics such as "Moana", "Lilo & Stitch", and "Toy Story". Enhancing the emotional resonance of the story is a stirring orchestral rendition of "Part of Your World" from "The Little Mermaid", recorded by a 60-piece orchestra and mixed at the legendary Abbey Road Studios.
Produced by global creative partners adam&eveDDB, Untold Studios, and Hungry Man, the short adds another layer to Waititi's extensive creative partnership with Disney, which includes "Thor: Ragnarok", "Jojo Rabbit", and "Reservation Dogs".
This Emmy-nominated short stands out as a centerpiece of Disney's broader holiday offerings, which include festive experiences at Disney Parks, classic films on Disney+ and Hulu, the Disney Ultimate Toy Drive, and an array of holiday-themed merchandise designed to spread joy.
Tags: disney, taika waititi, the boy & the octopus, youtube