When Santa mistakes a little girl’s drawing for a real wish, Disney’s “Best Christmas Ever” transforms that tiny moment into a touching story about love, laughter and what it truly means to care.
Global (12 November 2025) – Our Good Things Guy readers love Christmas ads and we love sharing them! Every year, brands pull out all the stops to remind us what the festive season is really about: kindness, connection and a touch of magic. And this year, Disney has done it again. Their new Holiday Short (film), Best Christmas Ever, directed by Academy Award winner Taika Waititi and starring the legendary John Goodman, is everything we adore about Christmas storytelling.
When Santa mistakes a doodle on a little girl’s list for a real wish, something extraordinary happens.
On Christmas morning, she wakes up to find her sketch come to life… a charming, unfinished character named Doodle. What follows is a story filled with friendship, laughter and imagination.
Taika Waititi shared, “What makes this story uniquely Disney is the fact that it’s set in the world of a kid. It’s a kid and her new best friend, navigating the complex world together, and doing it just with the power of friendship and imagination.”
It’s the latest in Disney’s growing tradition of heartwarming short films, following last year’s Emmy-nominated The Boy & The Octopus. And while the animation is beautiful and the music delightful, it’s the message that really shines… that connection and kindness are what make the holidays magical.
John Goodman, who voices Doodle, knows a thing or two about bringing lovable Disney characters to life. From Sulley in Monsters, Inc. to Pacha in The Emperor’s New Groove, he’s been part of some of the most beloved animated stories ever told.
“I’ve always loved being part of Disney stories because there’s a timelessness to Disney’s storytelling — it’s fun, it’s heartfelt, and it reminds families of what really matters. This wonderful short captures that same spirit perfectly,” he said.
The short also had a touch of Disney history woven into its creation. Eric Goldberg, the legendary animator behind Aladdin’s Genie, served as an advisor, ensuring Doodle’s animation felt alive, expressive, and joyfully imperfect.
Joanna Balikian, Disney’s Senior Vice President of Brand Management, summed it up beautifully: “Disney stories have always been a source of togetherness, wonder, and joy, especially during the holidays. With Best Christmas Ever, we sought to capture that timeless spirit of friendship, family, and imagination that brings generations together and makes the holidays magical.”
Disney’s message this year is simple yet powerful: “Make Someone’s Holiday Magic.” Whether it’s through a kind word, a thoughtful gift, or simply being present, the real magic of the season lies in how we make others feel.
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