Disney has officially entered the 2025 Christmas advert race with a deeply sentimental and magical animated short that is already capturing hearts across the UK.
A Heartwarming Tale of Friendship
Released on November 10, 2025, the advert titled A Disney Holiday Short: Best Christmas Ever is directed by the acclaimed filmmaker Taika Waititi. The story centres on a young girl and her unique companion, Doodle, a character who springs to life from her own colourful but unfinished drawing.
Doodle, voiced by Pixar legend John Goodman, becomes the girl's best friend. They share countless moments throughout the year, from brushing their teeth and school days to swimming pool fun and trick-or-treating. However, a significant challenge defines Doodle's existence: he was drawn without a mouth.
This missing feature prevents him from speaking, eating ice cream, inflating pool floats, and even perfecting his Dracula costume. His struggle to fit in culminates during a carol singing session, where his inability to join in leads him to make a heartfelt Christmas wish for a mouth.
A Nostalgic Nod to Toy Story
The advert's emotional climax arrives on Christmas morning, delivering a moment sure to give Toy Story fans goosebumps. Doodle's wish is granted in the most fitting way possible—he receives Mr. Potato Head's mouth.
This pivotal scene unfolds to the gentle strains of an instrumental version of Randy Newman's iconic song, You've Got a Friend In Me, instantly evoking the beloved spirit of the 1995 Pixar classic. For a generation that grew up with Andy's toys, this clever crossover is a powerful and nostalgic touch.
The Creative Vision Behind the Magic
Director Taika Waititi shared his perspective on the project, stating, "What makes this story uniquely Disney is the fact that it’s set in the world of a kid. It’s a kid and her new best friend, navigating the complex world together, and doing it just with the power of friendship and imagination."
John Goodman, renowned for voicing Sully in Monsters, Inc., also expressed his enthusiasm. "I’ve always loved being part of Disney stories because there’s a timelessness to Disney’s storytelling – it’s fun, it’s heartfelt, and it reminds families of what really matters," he said. "This wonderful short captures that same spirit perfectly."
This new short follows Waititi's Emmy-nominated Disney Christmas short from 2024, The Boy and the Octopus, continuing the tradition of high-quality, emotive festive storytelling from the entertainment giant. It joins the competitive fray of this year's major adverts from brands like John Lewis, Sainsbury's, and Marks & Spencer, offering a potent mix of animation, nostalgia, and pure festive cheer.
