The Disney holiday short The Boy & The Octopus has officially received a nomination for an Emmy Award. This recognition highlights the emotional resonance and creative impact of the short. The short premiered in November 2024 and quickly captured the hearts of fans worldwide.
In its first month alone, over 75 million viewers watched the short across YouTube and Disney+. With universal themes of friendship, exploration, and holiday wonder, the film resonated with audiences worldwide. Academy Award winner Taika Waititi directed the short, bringing Disney magic to life through heartfelt storytelling.
A Holiday Tale With Heart
The Boy & The Octopus tells the story of a young boy who finds a curious octopus attached to his head during a seaside vacation. After returning home, he forms a deep bond with the octopus—playing with a Buzz Lightyear toy, wielding a Jedi lightsaber, and charting Santa’s journey around the world.
Hidden beneath a Mickey Mouse beanie, the octopus quietly joins the boy in exploring everyday life. Their journey culminates in a heartfelt holiday adventure. Fans will enjoy discovering subtle easter eggs from beloved Disney films like Lilo & Stitch, Moana, and Toy Story.
A Disney and Taika Waititi Collaboration
Taika Waititi’s distinct storytelling style—familiar from Thor: Ragnarok, Jojo Rabbit, and Hulu’s Reservation Dogs—shines in this short film. Waititi said, “The story connects the feelings you get around the holidays with the same emotions you get from Disney films.”
The short features a beautiful orchestral rendition of The Little Mermaid’s “Part of Your World,” recorded live by a 60-piece orchestra at Abbey Road Studios. This powerful score captures the octopus’s dream to explore the world above.
Watch It Again This Holiday Season
While this Emmy nomination recognizes the short as an outstanding commercial. For many Disney fans, it’s become a new holiday tradition. If you missed it last season—or want to relive the magic—you can stream The Boy & The Octopus now on Disney+ and YouTube.
