Disney Branded TV to Expand Descendants Universe

Disney Branded Television is developing The Pocketwatch (working title), expanding the world created in Descendants, for Disney+.

Jennifer Phang (Advantageous, Half-Life, Foundation, The Flight Attendant) is on board to direct The Pocketwatch, which will introduce Red, the rebellious teenage daughter of the Queen of Hearts, and Chloe, the perfectionist daughter of Cinderella and Prince Charming.

The Pocketwatch will feature seven new songs, as well as classic Disney songs, while Red and Chloe embark on a journey through time using the White Rabbit’s pocket watch.

The script is written by Dan Frey and Russell Sommer (Magic: The Gathering). Phang serves as co-executive producer alongside Gary Marsh. Mark Hofeling (Descendants, Zombies, High School Musical) is production designer.

“With a captivating script and Jennifer Phang’s directorial vision, we’re setting a new high bar of creativity and imagination with a movie that ups the ante on story, song and dance to entertain young viewers, their families and the global fan base that grew up with the aspirational story of Descendants,” said Ayo Davis, president of Disney Branded Television. “We join them in anticipation as we prepare to deliver a great new entertainment experience to Disney+.”

Phang said, “The Pocketwatch presents a delightful canvas with fantastical world-building. Musicals sparked my imagination when I was a kid and are a huge part of what drew me to filmmaking. I think that’s because they have a way of conveying these lovely, nuanced ideas through song and expressive movement. I’m also always inspired by the diversity of families that exist all around the world. So I really jumped at the chance to craft a supercharged musical experience and explore some new, invigorating themes inside an expansive Disney universe.”

“Descendants ushered in a new world of stories and characters that tapped into what parents and kids love, a contemporary story with familiarity,” added Jennifer Rogers Doyle, senior VP of franchise and integrated planning, networks, at Disney Media Entertainment and Distribution. “The fan engagement and high demand for extensions of Descendants continues because viewers have a very special relationship with the core characters and not just because they love the way they look but because they are relevant, heroic figures, and soon, they’ll be invited to meet Red and Chloe.”