Loving Dory (2028)

"Loving Dory" is an upcoming short animated film by Pixar, set in the universe of "Finding Nemo" and "Finding Dory". Directed by Lou Hamou-Lhadj (known for the Oscar-winning short "Borrowed Time" and the series "Win or Lose"), produced by Mary Alice Drumm. The film tells the story of the forgetful fish Dory (voiced by Ellen DeGeneres) falling in love with a plastic bag drifting in the ocean, mistaking it for a gentle jellyfish. Her romantic impulses quickly turn into a toxic dependency, and Nemo, Mr. Ray and his students, as well as a young snorkeler, come to the rescue to save the situation. The film combines a comedic tone with an environmental subtext, highlighting the issue of ocean pollution.

Key Information:

• Original Title: Loving Dory
• Type: Short animated film
• Studio: Pixar Animation Studios
• Distributor: Walt Disney Pictures
• Director: Lou Hamou-Lhadj
• Producer: Mary Alice Drumm
• Composer: Nami Melumad
• Executive Producer: Thomas Newman
• Voice Cast: Ellen DeGeneres (Dory), other original cast members
• Release Date: 2028 (exact date not announced)
• Status: In production (approximately 50% of animation completed as of June 2026)

Plot:

Dory encounters a plastic bag in the open ocean and, due to her short memory, mistakes it for a friendly jellyfish. Captivated by its "interesting nature," she falls head over fins in love. Her every move, every flirtation is amplified by the ocean waves. However, her new romantic infatuation soon turns from slightly obsessive to outright toxic — and requires immediate intervention! Nemo, Mr. Ray and his class return to help, but the decisive role is played by a young snorkeler and an unexpected connection that will change the fate of Dory and the entire reef.

Chronology of the "Finding Nemo" Franchise:

The franchise includes feature films, shorts, and series that expand the underwater world:

• "Finding Nemo" (2003) — feature film. Clownfish Marlin embarks on a dangerous journey across the ocean to rescue his son Nemo, who has been captured by divers. Along the way, he meets the forgetful fish Dory, who becomes his loyal companion.
• "Exploring the Reef with Jean-Michel Cousteau" (2003) — short hybrid documentary film released on DVD. Jean-Michel Cousteau explores the Great Barrier Reef, with characters from "Finding Nemo" commenting on his actions.
• "Finding Dory" (2016) — feature film. Dory, who suffers from short-term memory loss, suddenly remembers her family and sets out to find her parents. Marlin and Nemo accompany her on this adventure.
• "Marine Life Interviews" (2016) — short film released on Blu-ray. The inhabitants of the Marine Life Institute share their impressions of Dory.
• "Dory Finding" (2021) — short episode from the Disney+ series "Pixar Popcorn". Dory searches for something on the reef.
• "Field Trip" (2024) — short episode from the Disney+ series "LEGO Pixar BrickToons". Mr. Ray's class goes on a field trip.
• "Loving Dory" (2028) — upcoming short film. Dory falls in love with a plastic bag, leading to comedic and dangerous situations.

Where to Watch:

Since the film is in production, official viewing platforms have not yet been announced. It is expected that "Loving Dory" will be released in theaters before a Pixar feature film (possibly "Gatto" or another 2028 release), and later appear on Disney+. Follow updates on the official Pixar website: pixar.com/loving-dory.