It’s been a minute since we got a completely original, non-sequel story from Walt Disney Animation Studios (three years, to be exact!). But the drought is officially over. Disney just cast its first spell for Hexed, their highly anticipated animated feature hitting theaters this Thanksgiving on November 25, 2026.
If you missed the teaser trailer, let’s break down why this needs to be on your radar.
What is Hexed About?
The film revolves around Billie (voiced by Hawkeye’s Hailee Steinfeld), an impulsive, unconventional teenage girl who doesn’t quite fit the mold. When Billie accidentally triggers long-dormant, secret magical abilities, she is violently pulled out of her quiet suburban life and flung headfirst into Hexe, a mind-bending, spectacular magical realm.
Once there, she meets a cast of unforgettable characters, including Ms. Quill (voiced by the legendary Tracey Ullman) and Elias Quire (voiced by Stephen Fry). Fun twist: these characters are literally a talking quill and a talking book, which gives off major classic Beauty and the Beast energy.
While navigating this dazzling new world, Billie has to solve deep-rooted family mysteries that could alter the world of witches forever.
One of the most relatable parts of the teaser is the dynamic between Billie and her tightly wound mother, Alice (voiced by Rashida Jones). It captures that perfect blend of teen angst and maternal worry without feeling forced.
Interestingly, the story underwent a massive creative shift during production. When Disney initially announced the project last year, the protagonist was actually a “Type-A mom and an awkward teenage boy.” Somewhere along the line, the creative team decided a mother-daughter dynamic was the magic formula they needed instead.
The Creative Powerhouse Team
Disney isn’t pulling any punches with the talent behind the camera, either. Hexed is being spearheaded by an incredible trio:
- Fawn Veerasunthorn (Wish)
- Jason Hand (Moana 2)
- Josie Trinidad (Co-director)
According to co-director Jason Hand, Hexe is a place where Billie finally begins to feel seen for the first time in her life. It’s shaping up to be a deeply emotional journey about self-discovery, identity, and family secrets.
Between the star-studded voice cast, the stunning animation style, and a classic Disney emotional core, Hexed looks like the perfect Thanksgiving movie event. Mark your calendars for November 25!
Clint Gamache is the owner of ThrillGeek. He started ThrillGeek to share his love of theme/amusement parks and pop culture with the world. You can find him at Halloween Horror Nights. Also, be sure to follow him on Twitter/X, Instagram @iamcg83