Disney and its subsidiaries have been releasing a number of fantastic films over the last few years, particularly with their popular Marvel and Lucasfilm properties. 2018 is no different, with a slew of exciting new live-action and animated films set to dominate the box office.

Here’s a list of the Disney films due out this year (ones that I’m super excited for that I just can’t stop talking about).

Black Panther (15 February 2018)

I am so incredibly hyped for Black Panther! As a fan of the comic book character growing up, seeing his introduction in Captain America: Civil War was amazing, and now, with all the trailers and new images teasing the film, I’m just bursting with excitement.

Black Panther follows T’Challa (Chadwick Boseman) as he returns to his homeland, Wakanda, to take his father’s place as King. However, when a powerful old enemy reappears, T’Challa must work with his allies to protect his nation and kingdom.

A Wrinkle In Time (12th April 2018)

Every time I watch the trailer for A Wrinkle In Time, I get more and more intrigued by the story, the graphics and, of course, the glorious costumes. Being a Kiwi, I feel even more enthused for the film, with many of the scenes having been filmed right here in New Zealand.

The film is based on the science-fiction, fantasy book by Madeleine L’Engle and stars Oprah Winfrey, Mindy Kaling, Reese Witherspoon and Chris Pine. The film follows young Meg Murry, who, after learning her astrophysicist father is being held captive on a distant planet deep in a universe-spanning evil, must work with her intelligent younger brother, her classmate, and three astral travelers to save him.

Avengers: Infinity War (25th April 2018)

It’s finally coming! The Marvel film I’ve been waiting years for is actually coming to the big screen this April! Words can’t describe how excited I am to watch this film, especially because I’m curious to see just how well Marvel Studios manages to pull off having such a huge cast of incredible superheroes in just one film.

The trailer itself for this film was one that we, Marvel comics fans, have been waiting ages for. The hype that ensued only made me all the more ecstatic to catch the film when it releases. Oh, you know it’s going to be so good. Catch the trailer for the film here.

Solo: A Star Wars Story (24th May 2018)

This film is going to be interesting, especially because it will finally give us some backstory on the galaxy’s most beloved scoundrel, Han Solo.

Here’s a synopsis of the next stand-alone Star Wars film:

“Through a series of daring escapades deep within a dark and dangerous criminal underworld, Han Solo meets his mighty future copilot Chewbacca and encounters the notorious gambler Lando Calrissian, in a journey that will set the course for one of the Star Wars saga’s most unlikely heroes.”

The Incredibles 2 (28th June 2018)

It’s been fourteen years since we last saw Pixar’s superhero family, The Incredibles, on screen. Being one of my favourite Pixar films, I’d been hoping and praying for a sequel. Thankfully, after years of rumours, The Incredibles 2 was finally announced, with a concept art being showcased, at last year’s D23 Expo event, and an official teaser trailer, released not too long ago, which can be watched here.

The Incredibles 2 will see a bit of a shift in the family dynamic, with Elastigirl out fighting crime while Mr. Incredible is tasked with raising their three children, Violet, Dash and Jack-Jack (who happens to be coming in to his new powers). All the while, a dangerous new villain is on the rise who the team, along with Frozone, must stop.

Ant-Man and the Wasp (5th July 2018)

Like all other Marvel films, I’m absolutely excited to see more of Ant-Man in action. After the events of Captain America: Civil War, Hope van Dyne, who takes on the mantle of the Wasp, approaches Scott Lang, a.k.a Ant Man, with a new mission. There isn’t much detail as to the film’s plot at this stage but I’m sure more will be revealed soon.

The Nutcracker and the Four Realms (22nd November 2018)

I’ve always been a fan of fairy tales, particular those that are filled with magic, wonder and an enchanting story. The Nutcracker is one of those tales that I thoroughly loved growing up so I’m very keen to see Disney’s live-action adaptation, especially after the visual success of Beauty and the Beast, and the fact that the film looks to include darker themes and twists. Check out the first trailer of the film here.

Ralph Breaks The Internet: Wreck It Ralph 2 (26th December 2018)

I never expected to enjoy Wreck It Ralph when it first released and kept putting off watching the film. When I finally did, I kicked myself for waiting so long as I thoroughly enjoyed the Walt Disney Studios’ animated feature. With the sequel being centred on the Internet, the film is bound to be one that will break some box office records.

Wreck It Ralph 2 is set six years after the events of the first film, following Ralph on his adventures in the Internet data space. When a Wi-Fi router gets plugged into the arcade, he must join forces with his best friend Vanellope to find a replacement part to fix Sugar Rush. Along the way, Ralph the pair encounter new customs, worlds, and a host of new characters, including the trendy algorithm, Yesss, and the Disney Princesses.

With such a fabulous lineup of films releasing throughout the year, I’m certainly going to be busy! Thank you Disney for continually bringing out amazing gems!