
Pixar’s direction appears to be taking a shift as the studio reportedly begins development on Ratatouille 2, nearly two decades after the original’s release. Despite previous denials from the company, the animated powerhouse is now seemingly embracing a strategy of revisiting its past successes. This marks the studio’s growing focus on sequels, with Ratatouille 2 following the pattern set by other upcoming projects such as Toy Story 5, Incredibles 3, Coco 2, and even Lilo & Stitch 2.
Pixar Shifts Focus to Sequels
While Pixar has long been known for its original storytelling and pioneering animation, the company’s recent moves suggest a new emphasis on established franchises. Inside Out 2 was a massive success, grossing over $1.7 billion globally, fueling the studio’s confidence in sequels. As Pixar moves forward, this strategy of revisiting familiar narratives seems poised to dominate its future projects.
The decision to explore a Ratatouille sequel is part of a broader trend at Pixar, where sequels and reboots of popular films are now the focus. This shift away from original films is most apparent in the aftermath of Pixar’s recent releases, such as Onward, Luca, Elemental, Turning Red, and Elio. While well-received, none of these films made the same cultural impact as earlier Pixar classics like Toy Story 3 or Coco. In fact, these original films have had a more muted reception at the box office, pushing Pixar to pivot back to safer bets.
The Nostalgia Factor
The decision to revisit Ratatouille, a film that already told a complete and heartwarming story, might seem unnecessary to some. However, in today’s landscape of entertainment, it is not surprising. The reliance on nostalgia in the industry, especially in a time when original ideas struggle to gain widespread traction, makes sense. Studios are increasingly returning to familiar content with proven success, offering a more reliable formula for attracting audiences.
For Pixar, the challenge lies in balancing its drive for financial success with the creative integrity that once made it a standout in the animation world. The success of Inside Out 2 shows there’s still demand for these beloved characters and worlds, but Pixar must now figure out how to continue innovating while relying on its past success.
'Ratatouille 2' is reportedly in the works at Disney. pic.twitter.com/jTKiKGAtB5
— Pop Tingz (@ThePopTingz) June 26, 2025
The Future of Pixar’s Creative Vision
As Ratatouille 2 simmers in development, Pixar fans and industry insiders alike are watching closely. The studio’s focus on franchises presents both an opportunity and a challenge: Can Pixar inject new life into these familiar stories while remaining true to its legacy of creativity and innovation? As the studio navigates this evolving landscape, Ratatouille 2 could be the next big test of whether Pixar can stay at the forefront of animated filmmaking while leaning on nostalgia-driven projects.