Disney has kicked off its 2026 festive season with A Disney Holiday Short: The Invisible Horse, an original three-minute film about childhood imagination, family bonds and the magic of Christmas. Directed by Dougal Wilson, the filmmaker behind Paddington in Peru, the short follows a young boy named Jack who believes he has outgrown the wonder of the holidays. An unexpected friendship with an invisible creature soon changes his perspective.
Released on November 9, 2026, the film is available to watch on Disney+ and online. It also marks the launch of Disney's global holiday campaign, Make the Holidays Magic, which brings together festive entertainment, experiences, merchandise and charitable initiatives.
The Invisible Horse Follows a Boy Rediscovering Christmas Magic
At the centre of the short is Jack, a young boy who feels he is getting too old to believe in the magic of Christmas. His outlook begins to change when a mysterious invisible creature enters his life. What follows is an unusual adventure that encourages him to rediscover his imagination and reconnect with his family.
The film builds its story around the idea that wonder can appear when people least expect it. Rather than relying on a traditional Christmas character, the short uses an unseen companion to explore the importance of belief, curiosity and childhood innocence.
The invisible horse is brought to life through the reactions of the people and objects around it. Small details, including movements in the snow, shifting furniture and playful physical interactions, help suggest the creature's presence without showing it directly. This approach gives the short a distinctive visual identity while keeping the focus on Jack's emotional journey.
Dougal Wilson Directs Disney's Festive Short Film
Dougal Wilson has directed The Invisible Horse, bringing his experience in family-oriented storytelling to Disney's latest Christmas project. He is known for directing Paddington in Peru, the third instalment in the popular Paddington film series, as well as memorable advertising campaigns.
The short was created by advertising agency adam&eve\TBWA, with production handled by Blinkink. Its creative approach combines practical visual effects, atmospheric imagery and emotional storytelling to make the invisible companion feel like part of Jack's world.
The cast includes Reilly Greenwood, Mya Poole, Christina McInulty, Bryce Martel, Valeria Jaraiz and Tajhana Taylor. At approximately three minutes, the film delivers its message through a compact narrative designed for families to enjoy during the festive season.
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Disney Launches Make the Holidays Magic Campaign
The Invisible Horse is the centrepiece of Disney's wider Make the Holidays Magic campaign for 2026. The global initiative brings together the company's theme parks, streaming platforms, television programming, consumer products and charitable activities.
A major part of the campaign focuses on supporting children and families. Disney is continuing its partnership with Make-A-Wish to create special experiences for children living with critical illnesses. The company is also working with organisations including Blue Star Families and Toys for Tots to support military families and deliver toys and festive surprises.
The campaign will extend across Disney's parks and experiences worldwide, with seasonal celebrations planned at Walt Disney World, Disneyland Resort, Disneyland Paris, Shanghai Disney Resort and Tokyo Disney Resort. Disney Cruise Line will also introduce festive experiences on selected sailings.
The Invisible Horse Is Now Available on Disney+
Audiences can watch A Disney Holiday Short: The Invisible Horse on Disney+ and online as part of the platform's holiday entertainment offering. Its release arrives ahead of the main Christmas season, giving families an early festive story centred on imagination and togetherness.
Disney's seasonal programming will also feature returning favourites and new holiday specials across Disney+ and Hulu. The company is bringing back familiar festive titles while introducing fresh stories for viewers throughout the holiday period.
With The Invisible Horse, Disney continues its tradition of using original seasonal storytelling to connect with audiences. The short's simple premise and emotional message make it an addition to the company's wider effort to bring families together through entertainment.
Final Take
The Invisible Horse introduces a heartwarming Christmas story about a boy who rediscovers the joy of believing in something magical. Directed by Dougal Wilson and created as part of Disney's Make the Holidays Magic campaign, the short combines imaginative filmmaking with a message about family and childhood wonder. Now streaming on Disney+, it offers audiences a new festive film to enjoy ahead of Christmas 2026.
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