Walt Disney Animation is edging closer to its 2D hand-drawn animation roots again. Chief Creative Officer Jared Bush recently hinted at a revival of 2D animation during interviews at Annecy International Animation Film Festival and with TheWrap — marking a strategic shift nearly 14 years after their last traditional feature, Winnie the Pooh (2011).
“I love 2D,” Bush stated, emphasizing that Disney still has “bonkers amazing” traditional artists within its ranks.
Disney recently launched a 2D training program, mentoring young talent alongside veterans like Eric Goldberg and Mark Henn — a direct step toward establishing an in-house 2D pipeline.
The Sketchbook docuseries on Disney+ aims to celebrate and sustain the hand-drawn legacy, reflecting a renewed internal appreciation for the craft.
In a crowded market dominated by 3D animation and CGI-heavy storytelling, a return to 2D could revive Disney’s unique visual identity. 2D animation typically costs less per minute than CGI—opening the door for both budget-friendly and creative storytelling flexibility.
Disney is officially laying the groundwork for a hand-drawn renaissance, balancing respect for its storied past with smart, experimental visions for animation’s future. While 3D remains dominant, this emerging commitment to 2D art could reshape upcoming projects if market conditions align.
