A small octopus named Blub Blub becomes part of our world in Disney’s heartwarming short film launched in time for the holidays.

The short, developed by Disney’s in-house creative team in partnership with adam&eveDDB, tells the story of the octopus, whose chance encounter with a boy at the beach leads him to latch onto and befriend him, and enjoy journeys that teach him about the magic of the world. 

Blub Blub learns about toys, the planets, holiday traditions and more as he returns home with his new friend and explores his room. In winter, he experiences snow for the first time and learns about Christmas traditions. He dreams of traveling the globe with Santa, and the unlikely duo hatch a plan to get him to fly away with Santa on Christmas night.

The film, directed by Taika Waititi, aims to show viewers the beauty of magic and friendship, as well as the wonders of the world that can be reached when you keep a childlike imagination, said Asad Ayaz, chief brand officer at Disney and president of marketing at Disney Studios and Disney+.

“When we started talking about the Christmas season and the holidays, we were inspired this year to do something a little different and create something that celebrated that feeling that Disney gives you of nostalgia, joy and being a big part of Christmas and the holidays,” Ayaz told Ad Age. “Christmas is a magical season. The holidays are full of magic and wonder and love and experiences. Everything you see in this short spot [captures that] through this meaningful, unlikely friendship between these two characters and how magical the world is to Blub Blub as he sees it for the first time.” 

The film is soundtracked by a new version of “Part of Your World” from “The Little Mermaid.” Disney-related easter eggs are sprinkled throughout, including Buzz Lightyear and Goofy toys, a Mickey Mouse hat and a chipped teacup, among other things. 

“The magic of the holidays can be enjoyed by everyone and should be shared with everyone,” Richard Brim, chief creative officer at adam&eveDDB, told Ad Age. “The holidays are such a wonderful time of the year.”

The holiday short comes as Disney gears up for an eventful season marked by notable film debuts. “Moana 2” premieres Nov. 27 and is one of Disney studios’ biggest releases of the year, followed by “Mufasa” on Dec. 20.

The short film will run on Disney’s social channels and online video.

More Creativity coverage from Ad Age:

• See this week’s top 5 campaigns.
• Everything brands did for Halloween this year.
• Browse our daily Creativity roundups.
• Director Lauren Greenfield on teens and toxic social media.
• The best ads of 2024 (so far).

Sign up for our daily Creativity newsletter to see the best stories of the day.