Disney returns this holiday season with a new emotional tale celebrating imagination, friendship, and the magic of giving. A Disney Holiday Short: Best Christmas Ever, directed by Academy Award winner Taika Waititi, introduces audiences to the touching story of a young girl and her doodle, an animated companion brought to life by a Christmas wish. The lovable character is voiced by Disney Legend John Goodman, whose warm performance brings an extra layer of heart to the narrative.
The short film opens with a simple yet powerful idea: a child draws a doodle of a friend, placing her hopes and creativity into the sketch. When Santa misinterprets the drawing as a holiday wish, the character unexpectedly comes to life on Christmas Day. What follows is a gentle and imaginative journey between a child and her newfound companion as they explore the world together, supported by the joy and innocence that define the season.
The film concludes with a call to action—“Make Someone’s Holiday Magic”—inviting viewers to carry the spirit of generosity and connection into their own celebrations.
Best Christmas Ever continues Disney’s holiday short film tradition, following last year’s A Disney Holiday Short: The Boy & The Octopus, which also featured direction by Taika Waititi. The filmmaker, known for Jojo Rabbit (2019) and Marvel Studios’ Thor: Ragnarok (2017) and Thor: Love and Thunder (2022), explained the emotional foundation of the new story:
“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, who brings life to the character Doodle, has a long history with Disney animation, including iconic roles such as Sulley in Monsters, Inc. (2001) and Monsters University (2013) and Pacha in The Emperor’s New Groove (2000). Reflecting on his involvement, Goodman said: “I’ve always loved being part of Disney stories because there’s a timelessness to Disney’s storytelling. This wonderful short captures that same spirit perfectly.”
Animation legend Eric Goldberg, known for designing the Genie in Aladdin (1992), advised on the short’s animation, collaborating with Untold Studios, production house Hungryman, and creative agency adam&eveDDB—the team behind the film’s charming tone and visual identity.
Joanna Balikian, senior vice president of brand management at Disney, emphasized the intent behind the project: “With A Disney Holiday Short: Best Christmas Ever, we sought to capture the timeless spirit of friendship, family, and imagination that brings generations together and makes the holidays magical.”
Alongside the release of the short, Disney encourages audiences to embrace the season through experiences across Disney Parks, Disney Stores, Disney Cruise Line, and streaming offerings on Disney+, including holiday classics like Home Alone (1990) and new premieres such as A Very Jonas Christmas Movie arriving November 14.
With its blend of storytelling, music, character warmth, and emotional resonance, Best Christmas Ever continues Disney’s legacy of creating holiday memories that last well beyond the season.
