Disney’s Jennifer Lee, who was instrumental in steering both Frozen and Frozen 2 towards enormous success, will be passing on her directorial baton for Frozen 3. During an interview with The Wrap at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival this year, Lee disclosed that she would not be directing the third Frozen movie, which Disney unveiled during its Q1 earnings call.
The future journey of Anna, Elsa, and the entire Arendelle clan will be navigated by a new director, whose identity remains undisclosed. Lee has a solid track record in Disney’s animation department, having written the storyline for Zootopia and the screenplay for Wreck-It Ralph. She is also enlisted as a scriptwriter for the forthcoming Disney animation, Wish, featuring Chris Pine and Ariana DeBose.
Lee’s association with Frozen has been comprehensive, encompassing roles as a writer, director, and producer, along with co-director Chris Buck. They collectively basked in the triumph when the original Frozen clinched the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature in 2014. Despite stepping back from directing, she will remain involved in a consultative role to support the incoming filmmakers of the franchise.
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As for Frozen 3’s progress, Lee could not divulge details but assured that her successor would be more than competent. “Our stories are guided by the artists in the studio. The direction we’re heading with Frozen did not originate from me but from a remarkably talented individual. It’s a new element, which I’ve disclosed to no one. I’m utterly amazed by it and am thoroughly enjoying working with the team,” she revealed to The Wrap.
Image courtesy of Disney
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What’s in Store for Lee and the Kingdom of Arendelle?
Lee looks forward to the evolution of Frozen 3 under new creative leadership and is eager to witness the future trajectory of Arendelle. Although her influence will continue to resonate within the project, she believes that others in the studio, equally familiar with the franchise, are ready to take the lead. Lee shared her enthusiasm for continuing to work on other projects. “It’s particularly exciting on ‘Frozen’… as we’ve collectively experienced this world for quite some time, and many studio artists have grown with both films. They essentially have as much ownership as anyone else.” While she’s stepping aside now, she isn’t dismissing the possibility of directing in the future, particularly at Disney. “I’m not that old! I have directed only two films, and I believe there will be a time — I’ll recognize it — when after giving your all, you step aside to pave the way for the innovation of the next person. I can’t envision it happening anywhere but Disney.”
Given the recent announcement, it might be a while before Frozen 3 hits the screens. Bob Iger, aiming to get Disney back on track following Bob Chapek’s contentious reign, approved several sequels of popular franchises including Toy Story 5 and Zootopia 2. These films are expected to generate significant box office revenue, especially in the wake of recent financial setbacks such as Lightyear and Strange World.
In any case, it is likely that Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Bobby Lopez will return for Frozen 3, infusing it with their acclaimed musical talents, thereby promising more enchanting melodies. Stay connected with FilmSweep for more updates on the new movie and catch the trailer for Frozen 2 right here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Jennifer Lee Steps Down
Who was the director of ‘Frozen’ and ‘Frozen 2’?
Jennifer Lee directed both ‘Frozen’ and ‘Frozen 2’.
Is Jennifer Lee directing ‘Frozen 3’?
No, Jennifer Lee has announced that she will not be returning to direct ‘Frozen 3’.
Will Jennifer Lee be involved in ‘Frozen 3’ at all?
While she is stepping down from her directorial role, Jennifer Lee will stay involved in ‘Frozen 3’ in an advisory position.
Has a new director been chosen for ‘Frozen 3’?
As of the time of this writing, the new director for ‘Frozen 3’ has not been publicly announced.
What are some other projects Jennifer Lee has worked on?
Jennifer Lee has penned the story for ‘Zootopia’ and the screenplay for ‘Wreck-It Ralph’. She is also attached as a writer for the upcoming Disney animation, ‘Wish’.
Who is expected to return for ‘Frozen 3’?
It’s likely that Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Bobby Lopez, known for their award-winning musical talents, will return for ‘Frozen 3’.
When is ‘Frozen 3’ expected to release?
The release date of ‘Frozen 3’ hasn’t been announced yet, but given the recent announcement of its development, it will likely take some time.
More about Jennifer Lee Steps Down
- Jennifer Lee’s IMDb Profile
- Frozen Franchise on Wikipedia
- The Wrap’s Interview with Jennifer Lee
- Disney’s Q1 earnings call
- Details about ‘Wish’ Animation
- Academy Awards 2014 Best Animated Feature
