Disney Animation has found the musical voice for its next big feature. Academy Award-winning composer Kris Bowers is set to compose the original score for Hexed, the studio’s upcoming animated film hitting theaters on November 25, Variety reports exclusively.
Disney’s Hexed (Credits: Variety)
Hexed is a magical coming-of-age saga following an unconventional teenage girl who discovers secret magical abilities — gifts that, once unleashed, hurtle her into a spectacle-filled journey through a hidden realm of witches. The star-studded voice cast includes Hailee Steinfeld, Rashida Jones, Jodie Foster, and Walton Goggins, alongside Tracie Ullman, Stephen Fry, Piper Curda, and Bobby Moynihan.
A Score Made of Air
Bowers revealed his approach was inspired by a young woman who dreams of flying — both literally and metaphorically. That concept sent him exploring unconventional ways of making music with air: bird call whistles, wind wands, nose flutes, bottles, kazoos, air sirens, and even recordings of real birds transformed into instruments.
The result blends orchestra, an effected chamber woodwind ensemble, synths, and natural sound elements, often blurring the line between acoustic and electronic textures. At its heart, Bowers says, this is “a deeply emotional mother-daughter journey,” and he wanted the music to capture both that intimacy and the wonder of the magical world.
A Powerhouse Team
Hexed is directed by Fawn Veerasunthorn (Wish) and Jason Hand (Moana 2), with producing by Roy Conli (Tangled, Big Hero 6) and Yvett Merino (Encanto, Zootopia 2) — serious pedigree for a film Disney is positioning as its next animated event.
Bowers is no stranger to the genre. His credits include The Wild Robot, Green Book, King Richard, The Color Purple, Haunted Mansion, and the series Bridgerton. He also recently composed Netflix’s animated film Steps and the upcoming Paramount/Skydance sports drama Mr. Irrelevant: The John Tuggle Story, which premieres December 25.
With the theatrical date fast approaching, Hexed is shaping up to be one of the season’s most anticipated family releases.
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Source: Variety — read the full story there.
