Pixar Scraps ‘Be Fri’: How It Affects Pete Docter’s Studio
Pixar Animation Studios has made recent headlines, primarily due to the success of its original comedy film, Hoppers. Released in 2023, the film has garnered a strong critical reception and box office performance, creating a sense of optimism for the studio ahead of the highly anticipated Toy Story 5.
However, alongside this success, Pixar has faced scrutiny due to the cancellation of a project titled Be Fri. Initially developed over three years, this film had involved a considerable creative team of approximately 50 individuals. The decision to scrap Be Fri in late 2023 left many in the studio shocked, as it became one of the longest-developed films in Pixar’s history to be terminated. Notably, Pixar has garnered a reputation for successfully reworking troubled projects, exemplified by their 2012 release, Brave.
Overview of Be Fri
Be Fri, which was under the direction of Kristen Lester, centered around two teenage girls navigating the complexities of friendship. Inspired by Lester’s own experiences, the narrative unfolded as the girls discovered that their favorite Sailor Moon-inspired television show was real. They were then thrust into a quest to save humanity.
Creative Team
- Director: Kristen Lester (known for the 2019 short film Purl)
- Writer: Blaise Hemingway (contributed to Clifford the Big Red Dog)
- Editor: Nicholas C. Smith (retired from Pixar in 2024 after two decades)
According to a former Pixar employee, Be Fri underwent four significant iterations based on feedback from higher-ups. The team aimed to have the film ready for the animation phase before Disney ultimately opted to cancel it.
Reaction to Cancellation
The reaction to the cancellation was profound among staff. A former employee recounted a poignant moment when team members gathered for a symbolic farewell to Be Fri, creating a memorial space for notes and art dedicated to the project. The dedication reflected the deep attachment to a film many felt deserved to be seen.
Industry Context
Disney’s decision to halt Be Fri’s progress followed a string of events, including the box office disappointment of the Toy Story prequel, Lightyear. The studio’s leadership shifted focus towards making films with broader appeal, prioritizing marketability over diversity in storytelling. This change sparked widespread debate regarding the representation of underrepresented voices in Pixar’s films.
The Bigger Picture
Despite setbacks, Pixar maintains a positive outlook. The success of Hoppers, which has grossed over $330 million globally, indicates a potential revival of original projects. Upcoming productions, including Gatto, are in the works, and Toy Story 5 is set for a June release.
Industry insiders note the intriguing similarities between Be Fri and KPop Demon Hunters, a Netflix film that has resonated with audiences, becoming one of the platform’s most-watched features. The parallels suggest that themes explored in Be Fri may have been timely in today’s market, leaving some former team members questioning the strategic decisions made by Disney leadership.
Ultimately, while Pixar’s triumphs signal potential growth, the fate of projects like Be Fri raises important questions about the studio’s creative direction and commitment to diverse narratives.
