On August 17, 2025, Disney released a new animated original short film,An Almost Christmas Story,and it is the perfect thing to watch before a favorite Christmas movie.An Almost Christmas Storyis one of severalnew exciting Christmas movies released in 2024, and it certainly does not disappoint.Written by David Lowery and directed by David Lowery and Jack Thorne,An Almost Christmas Storyis abouta small owl named Moon who embarks on a journey through New York City with a broken wing to find his father.

An Almost Christmas Storyfeatures a small cast of voice actors, including Jim Gaffigan, Mamoudou Athie, Natasha Lyonne, and John C. Reilly.The short animated film received an impressive 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, and it features four songs, including two original songs, all performed by John C. Reilly. Though it might be too soon to say whether it will become aChristmas movie classic,An Almost Christmas Storyis already among 2024’s best holiday stories.

Santa walking with a sack of letters next to Jesper in Klaus

An Almost Christmas Story Is A Lovely Holiday Short Film By Alfonso Cuarón & Disney+

Alfonso Cuarón Produces A Meaningful Christmas Short Film

An Almost Christmas Storyhas a heartwarming narrative and creative blending of various animation styles.Renowned filmmaker Alfonso CuarónproducedAn Almost Christmas Story, a film that is both charming and emotional. It revolves around an adventurous owl named Moon, who loves to fly but constantly finds himself in dangerous situations.

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On one occasion, Moon lands in a tree with a broken wing, only for a logger to transport the tree to Rockefeller Center. Moon is alone in New York City, where he meets Luna, a child with a prosthetic leg who is also lost.Luna and Moon form a bond as Luna teaches Moon about Christmas.

Luna & Moon In Disney’s An Almost Christmas Story

Watch An Almost Christmas Story Before Another Disney+ Movie For A Perfect Holiday Watch Party

An Almost Christmas Story Has A Warm Holiday Spirit

Disney is notorious for including short animated films before the main feature in theaters, such asBaoandThe Incredibles 2orLavaandInside Out. Although the short film and the full-length movie do not seem similar, there are usually underlying themes that connect the two pieces, such as family forBaoandThe Incredibles 2, or friendship forLavaandInside Out.An Almost Christmas Storyis available to stream on Disney+, and it isthe perfect opportunity to revive Disney’s short animated film before the full movie trend.

An Almost Christmas Storypairs well with movies likeHome Alone,The Santa Clause, andMiracle on 34th Street. However, other unexpected Christmas films work well withAn Almost Christmas Story, such asDie HardorThe Nightmare Before Christmas. Disney+ also has several TV shows containing iconic Christmas episodes, such asModern Familyseason 7, episode 9, “White Christmas,” orGirl Meets Worldseason 1, episode 16, “Girl Meets Home for the Holidays.” Disney+ also has several holiday specials, creating a plethora of options for a special holiday marathon that can begin withAn Almost Christmas Story.

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An Almost Christmas Story

Cast

An Almost Christmas Story follows Moon, a curious young owl, who accidentally ends up in a Christmas tree bound for Rockefeller Plaza. The film chronicles his enchanting journey home, highlighting themes of magic and unexpected friendships amidst his adventurous quest.