Disney Pulls 'Ella McCay' From French Theaters Days Before Debut
Emma Mackey and Jamie Lee Curtis star in a political comedy that faced a sudden setback, as Disney unexpectedly halts its French cinema release just before its scheduled premiere.
Disney has experienced a year of dramatic highs and lows at the box office. While Zootopia 2 soared to become the top-grossing Hollywood film of the year, the studio also faced disappointment with Ella McCay, which failed to meet expectations. The political comedy, featuring Emma Mackey and Jamie Lee Curtis, was set for a theatrical release in France on January 7. However, in a surprising move, Disney has decided to cancel the film's French debut at the last minute.
Unexpected Decision Shakes Up Release Plans
The abrupt cancellation comes as a shock to both fans and industry insiders. Ella McCay had been scheduled to hit French theaters, with promotional efforts already underway. The film, which blends political satire with comedic elements, was anticipated to draw audiences eager to see Mackey and Curtis share the screen. Instead, Disney has opted to withdraw the movie from the French market entirely, leaving many to wonder about the reasons behind the decision.
Box Office Contrasts Highlight Disney's Year
This move stands in stark contrast to the studio's recent success with Zootopia 2. The animated sequel has dominated the global box office, bringing in record-breaking numbers and reinforcing Disney's reputation for animated hits. On the other hand, Ella McCay struggled to find its footing, becoming the studio's lowest-performing release of the year. The decision to pull the film from French cinemas suggests Disney is looking to minimize further losses and shift focus to more successful projects.
Impact on Cast and Audience
For stars Emma Mackey and Jamie Lee Curtis, the sudden change means their latest collaboration won't reach French audiences as planned. Fans who were looking forward to the film's unique blend of humor and political commentary will have to wait and see if it becomes available through other channels. The cancellation underscores the unpredictable nature of the film industry, where even high-profile projects can face unexpected setbacks.