The prehistoric gang is back and facing their hottest challenge yet. Disney ignited excitement at CinemaCon in Las Vegas by premiering the first official footage for Ice Age: Boiling Point, the sixth installment in the beloved animated franchise. The reveal confirms the series, which began in 2002, is far from extinct and is thawing out for a grand return to theaters on February 5, 2027.
The original Ice Age became a cultural phenomenon, launching a franchise that has grossed billions worldwide. After the fifth film seemed to put the series on ice in 2016, Disney announced last year that the herd would return for one more adventure. Original voice stars Ray Romano (Manny), John Leguizamo (Sid), and Denis Leary (Diego) are all confirmed to reprise their iconic roles, promising a nostalgic trip for longtime fans.
The exclusive CinemaCon footage, described by attendees, kicked off with a familiar face: the acorn-obsessed saber-toothed squirrel, Scrat. However, things have changed for the perpetually unlucky creature. The clip revealed Scrat is no longer foraging alone; he's now a proud father to an adorable baby squirrel. The heartwarming moment was short-lived, as a nearby volcano suddenly erupted, transforming their icy landscape into a treacherous, lava-filled environment and setting the stage for the film's "boiling point."
While full plot details remain under wraps, reports indicate Ice Age 6 will follow Manny, Sid, Diego, Ellie, and the rest of the herd as they embark on a wild journey through dinosaur-filled territories and molten new worlds. The volcanic premise suggests a dramatic shift from the franchise's traditionally chilly settings, pushing our favorite prehistoric mammals to adapt to a rapidly heating planet.
Disney's CinemaCon Showcase Was Packed with Major Reveals
The Ice Age reveal was part of a powerhouse presentation from Disney that highlighted its upcoming cinematic slate. The most anticipated moment for many was the first deep dive into Avengers: Doomsday, the next epic chapter in the Marvel Cinematic Universe slated for December 18.
Animation fans were also treated to major news about Toy Story 5. Stars Tim Allen and Tom Hanks appeared at the event to confirm their returns as Buzz Lightyear and Woody, respectively. The studio showcased new footage, building hype for the film's arrival on June 19. In other animation news, the live-action remake of Moana also had a dedicated segment, capitalizing on the massive success of Moana 2 which soared past $1 billion at the global box office. The remake is positioned as a major contender for summer 2027 when it launches on July 10.
Disney's panel was just one part of a convention bursting with exclusive previews. Other studios also brought their biggest guns, with reveals like Jason Statham's 'The Beekeeper 2' Unleashes First Footage & Wild Presidential Plot at CinemaCon and the long-awaited first look at 'Masters of the Universe' Footage with Leto's Skeletor making major waves among attendees.
A Fitting Final Chapter for a Beloved Franchise?
Positioned as the likely final chapter, Ice Age: Boiling Point has the opportunity to give the series a proper send-off. The introduction of Scrat's family adds a new emotional layer, while the volcanic threat raises the stakes to unprecedented levels. The footage description suggests the film will blend the slapstick humor and heart that defined the original, now with a fresh, fiery twist.
With nearly three years until its release, Disney will have ample time to build anticipation. For now, the first glimpse at CinemaCon proves that even after more than two decades, the appeal of this prehistoric pack remains red-hot. Fans can look forward to more updates as the 2027 release date draws closer, marking the return of one of animation's most enduring herds.
