Disney Christmas Ad Tells Multi-Generational Story of Togetherness with Make-a-Wish

Disney today announced the launch of its new Christmas advert, a three-minute animated short telling a touching story of a grandmother, her granddaughter and the family traditions that connect them through the years. 

As part of Disney’s festive retail campaign, ‘From Our Family To Yours’, the advert marks the 40-year partnership with children’s charity, Make-A-Wish, premiered across TV and Digital plus Disney’s own channels in 26 countries in EMEA, as well as Australia, New Zealand, North America and parts of Asia. 

The heart-warming storyline is inspired by the themes of traditions, family togetherness and nostalgia, and  introduces two new characters – a grandmother, Lola, and her granddaughter - alongside familiar friend Mickey Mouse who features as a much-loved toy, gifted to Lola as a young child by her father in 1940. With each passing year, Mickey comes to symbolise Lola’s childhood and a present day connection to her  granddaughter, ultimately inspiring a festive surprise on Christmas morning. 

Disney fans will be able to purchase the limited-edition vintage Mickey Mouse soft toy featured in the ad from The Disney Store and ShopDisney.co.uk, benefiting Make-A-Wish organisations.  

The story is accompanied by the emotive vocals of UK artist and Ivor Novello Rising Star nominee, Griff (19), who performs ‘Love Is A Compass’, written by songwriting/production team, PARKWILD. The charity track will  also be available for sale and download from 9th November. For every download before 31st December 2020, 100% of the proceeds from the retail price will be donated to Make-A-Wish. (Terms and conditions apply). 

To celebrate the theme of festive family traditions, Disney is encouraging fans to head to Facebook, Instagram or Twitter to share their own past and present festive memories using #LoveFromDisney. For each special memory shared, Disney will donate $1USD to Make-A-Wish (up to $100,000 USD). (Terms and conditions apply).

Tasia Filippatos, SVP Disney EMEA said: “Christmas is a time for giving and giving back, and we’re delighted  to debut this festive ad campaign supporting our long-term charity partner Make-A-Wish. Our goal was to tell a universal story that inspires through the themes of family, love and special holiday traditions. We hope that Disney fans enjoy the short.” 

UK artist Griff, who performs ‘Love Is A Compass’ said: “I was excited to get involved in Disney’s Christmas  campaign, in support of Make-A-Wish. The lyrics of the track and the storytelling in the advert are powerful, and important. The theme of family and loved ones are so front of mind for many of us – especially this Christmas.” 

Luciano Manzo, president and CEO at Make-A-Wish International said: “Our 40-year partnership with Disney has already helped grant so many wishes for children across the world and we’re really excited to be part of this Christmas campaign. The festive season is such a meaningful time for so many families to celebrate special memories, and it’s wonderful to have the opportunity to grant even more life-changing wishes with  Disney’s support. We hope audiences love the animated short and get involved.” 

The advert was developed and produced by Disney EMEA’s in-house creative team, led by Angela Affinita, director of brand marketing and creative, in partnership with Flux Animation Studios. ‘From Our Family To Yours’ premieres on 9th November, with the single, limited-edition vintage Mickey Mouse soft toy, and social media campaign launching simultaneously.  

As Christmas is a time for giving and gifting, a range of exciting products will be available for the whole family to enjoy such as Star Wars’s The Child Animatronic edition and Frozen’s Elsa & Nokk Swim and Walk. A product lookbook can be viewed here: