Disney Unveils Clay to Experiment With New Tactile Animation Style

Disney is pursuing a bold visual shift for the upcoming theatrical release Clay, moving away from its traditional animation look toward a tactile computer-generated world inspired by claymation.

Disney Animation chief creative officer Jared Bush has framed the project as a significant stylistic experiment, utilizing a new art direction that remains computer-generated rather than traditional stop-motion. This creative pivot highlights the studio’s recent willingness to take big swings with its original features.

A New Direction in Animation

The studio, known for establishing a signature style over generations, is using the feature to explore a different aesthetic. While the film will utilize a tactile approach to its visuals, the creative team is prioritizing early exploration and world-building over finalizing a single version of the production. This multi-path approach is intended to serve the narrative through a distinct, fresh art direction.

The film is directed by Fawn Veerasunthorn and follows the story of a reluctant mentor named Flip, voiced by Kieran Culkin. Flip is tasked with guiding a young ball of clay named Mushy, an assignment that leads the pair into an unexpected adventure within a magical forest. According to details shared at D23, the studio views this project as an opportunity to take significant creative risks.

Disney Plans a Clay-Inspired Animation for 2028 Release

• The film is not categorized as a musical, though it is being developed with the flexibility to include varied musical moments and needle drops.
• The project is officially scheduled for a theatrical release in 2028.
• Filmmakers are currently tasked with building an entirely new world to house the story of Flip and Mushy.

Disney announced the upcoming feature during the D23 event, moving away from its established animation formula to favor a look that emphasizes a tactile, clay-inspired aesthetic throughout the computer-generated environment.

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