An Almost Christmas Story: Premiere date, Trailer, Voice cast, plot, & more About Alfonso Cuarón’s Animated Short

Disney has just dropped the official trailer for An Almost Christmas Story, the heartwarming animated short film inspired by the true story of a tiny owl rescued from New York City's iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. 

The film promises to capture the magic of the holiday season in a way only Disney can. This latest release also marks the final chapter in Cuarón's beloved holiday shorts collection, following the critically acclaimed Le Pupille and The Shepherd.

The newly released trailer introduces audiences to Moon, a curious young owl who unexpectedly finds himself on a journey to Rockefeller Plaza. With the help of a lost girl named Luna, the two embark on a heartfelt adventure, discovering the spirit of Christmas along the way. The stunning stop-motion animation, paired with an emotional storyline, hints that this short is set to be a holiday favorite.

In this article, we explore everything we know about An Almost Christmas Story, from its talented creative team to the must-see trailer that has everyone talking. Stay tuned for all the latest updates—we’ll keep you posted as more exciting details come to light!

Release date & Where to Watch

An Almost Christmas Story will debut on Disney+ in the US and Canada on Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, with a PG rating for mild peril. 

The animated short has been making rounds on the film festival circuit, including appearances at the Hamptons International Film Festival, Santa Fe International Film Festival, Chicago International Film Festival, Morelia International Film Festival, Montclair Film Festival, Animation Is Film, São Paulo International Film Festival, SPARK Animation Festival, World Animation Summit, and Bogotá Short Film Festival – BOGOSHORTS.

Plot

An Almost Christmas Story, inspired by the true events of a tiny owl rescued from Rockefeller Center's Christmas tree in 2020, follows Moon, a curious owl trapped in a Christmas tree headed for Rockefeller Plaza. While trying to escape the city, Moon meets Luna, a lost young girl, and together they embark on a heartwarming adventure. As they navigate the bustling streets, they discover the magic of the holiday season and form an unexpected bond while trying to return to their families.

Voice cast

• Cary Christopher as Moon
• Estella Madrigal as Luna
• Jim Gaffigan as Papa Owl
• Mamoudou Athie as Pelly
• Alex Ross Perry as Dave The Dog
• Gianna Joseph as Peaky
• Phil Rosenthal as Punt
• Natasha Lyonne as Pat
• John C. Reilly as The Folk Singer

Official Trailer

The trailer introduces Moon, a curious young owl who gets trapped in a Christmas tree bound for Rockefeller Plaza. While trying to escape the city, Moon befriends a lost girl named Luna, and together, they navigate the bustling streets, dodging through the subway and facing flying chases. As they journey back home, they form an unlikely bond, capturing the spirit of the holiday season. 

On Nov. 12, 2024, Disney released a promo showcasing what will probably be Moon and Luna's first meeting. Check out the clip below:

Behind the Scenes

An Almost Christmas Story is directed by David Lowery and produced by five-time Academy Award winner Alfonso Cuarón. This animated short, crafted in a beautiful stop-motion style, is the final installment in Cuarón's Christmas trilogy.

Produced by Disney Branded Television and Cuarón’s Esperanto Filmoj, in collaboration with Titmouse and Maere Studios, with animation services provided by 88 Pictures, the project brings together an esteemed creative team. Lowery takes on the roles of director, screenplay writer, and producer, while Cuarón contributes as producer and story creator. Other key contributors include Gabriela Rodríguez (producer), Jack Thorne (story and screenplay), Nicholas Ashe Bateman (creative designer), and Daniel Hart (composer).

Following Cuarón's previous Christmas-themed works, The Shepherd (Oscar-shortlisted) and Le Pupille (Oscar-nominated), An Almost Christmas Story concludes the trilogy, offering another unique holiday tale.