The Walt Disney Corporation will not “Let It Go.” In this case, “it” is maximizing corporate synergy around Disney’s IP.
National Geographic and Walt Disney Animation Studios (and Silverback Films) are teaming on new natural history series The Real Frozen, which is a working title. It is the fourth such adaptation following Lion, which depicted a real-life The Lion King, the Emmy-winning A Real Bug’s Life and the (also) upcoming The Real Finding Nemo. The Real Frozen will premiere on the Nat Geo cable channel and stream on Disney+ and Hulu.
The Real Frozen reimagines the characters of the Frozen universe “as if they were inhabiting the real worlds depicted throughout the series,” per Nat Geo. “Set against the breathtaking icy landscapes of Iceland, Finland, Norway and Sweden, The Real Frozen follows real-life animals whose fortitude, loyalty, resilience and relationships echo the emotional heart of the Frozen franchise. These animals navigate the harshest winters, revealing extraordinary behaviors, survival strategies and bonds.”
Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel and Jonathan Groff return to voice Anna, Elsa and Kristoff, who serve as our trio of narrators. Josh Gad will pop in and out as Olaf.
“At National Geographic, we’re passionate about inspiring the next generation through stories kids love and parents trust,” said Courteney Monroe, president, National Geographic content.
Monroe called The Real Frozen “a wonderful opportunity to bring together Disney’s beloved stories and characters with National Geographic’s boundary-pushing natural history storytelling, introducing kids and families to the incredible wonders of the world and opening the door to a lifetime of discovery.”
“There is no one better than National Geographic to bring viewers a look at the real places in the world that inspired the creation of the Frozen world and its magical wondrous environments,” Frozen 3 producer Christina Chen added. “We are thrilled to have our lead characters with our talented cast and original Frozen animators who bring them to life be part of this series.”
Frozen 3 is roughly a year out from theaters.
“It’s a rare thing to work on a project that brings together the Walt Disney Animation Studios and National Geographic, two names synonymous with wonder and imagination,” said Jeff Wilson, director. “We know there are extraordinary animal tales out there in the world, and this collaboration gives us the chance to show audiences that the real world of Frozen is every bit as magical as the animated version, with a sense of wonder and even perhaps a wink.”
Elisabeth Oakham and Katie Parsons serve as director and producers on all episodes. For National Geographic, Janet H. Vissering is executive producer; Tom McDonald is executive vice president of Nat Geo’s content.
Original Article on Hollywood Reporter