Strange World: release date, trailer, cast, reviews and everything we know about the animated film (2024)

When many people think of the holiday season, they usually think of family and the time spent with relatives. Well, in a stroke of genius, Walt Disney Animation Studios released the new film Strange World, just in time for Thanksgiving in the US. Not only is the movie based on the concept of multigenerational family dynamics, but it serves as a nice viewing option for those looking for something to do in between eating turkey and searching through Black Friday deals.

Here’s everything we know about Strange World.

When is the Strange World release date?

Strange World premiered exclusively in US theaters on Wednesday, November 23. In the UK, the film debuted in cinemas on Friday, November 25.

The film is now available to stream on Disney Plus.

What is Strange World about?

Walt Disney Animation Studios describes the Strange World plot with the following:

"The feature film introduces a legendary family of explorers, the Clades, as they attempt to navigate an uncharted, treacherous land alongside a motley crew that includes a mischievous blob, a three-legged dog and a slew of ravenous creatures.

"'Inspired by classic adventure stories,' said director Don Hall, 'Strange World is an original animated adventure/comedy about three generations of the Clade family who overcome their differences while exploring a strange, wondrous and oftentimes hostile world.'"

Strange World cast

Strange World is led by an all-star cast. Check out the Hollywood stars lending their voices to the animated characters.

• Jake Gyllenhaal (Ambulance) as Searcher Clade
• Dennis Quaid (The Tiger Rising) as Jaeger Clade
• Jaboukie Young-White (Rap sh*t) as Ethan Clade
• Gabrielle Union (The Inspection) as Meridian Clade
• Lucy Liu (Elementary) as Callisto Mal

Strange World trailer

Take a peek at the official trailer. It looks like Disney continues to put forth creative and captivating stories that you can’t help but be drawn to watch.

Strange World reviews

Strange World is performing solidly among movie critics, and as of November 23, had a 74% on Rotten Tomatoes.

Chicago Sun-Times says: "It’s no Encanto, but the family-friendly fun fest offers plenty of ingenious visuals and upbeat messaging."

New York Post states: "A sweet, science-fiction family film with a loud environmentalist message that’s good fun."

Hollywood Reporter claims: "Has the makings of a new classic."

Strange World runtime

Strange World runs an hour and 42 minutes.

Strange World directors

At the helm of Strange World are co-directors Don Hall and Qui Nguyen. Hall is an experienced director who has previously directed Raya and the Last Dragon, Moana and Big Hero 6. This is Nguyen’s mainstream directorial debut. However, he actually penned the script for Strange World and he previously wrote the screenplay for Raya and the Last Dragon.