Pixar’s Incredibles 3 Directed by Peter Sohn with Brad Bird Writing

Pixar is gearing up to bring back its iconic superhero family in Incredibles 3, but with a notable change behind the scenes. Brad Bird, the visionary who wrote and directed the first two Incredibles films, will not be directing the third installment. Instead, he is focusing on writing the script while Peter Sohn, a seasoned Pixar director known for works like Elemental and The Good Dinosaur, takes over the director’s chair.

This shift comes as a surprise to many fans and industry watchers, especially since other Pixar veterans like Andrew Stanton and Lee Unkrich are continuing to direct sequels to their successful films. The main reason behind Bird’s decision is his busy schedule, as he is preparing to direct a new animated feature, Ray Gunn, at Skydance Animation.

Despite the change in director, Pixar’s hallmark collaborative approach remains intact. The studio’s process involves a team of talented filmmakers providing feedback throughout production, ensuring that Sohn’s vision for Incredibles 3 benefits from the collective expertise of Pixar’s creative community.

The Incredibles franchise has been a major success since its debut in 2004, winning the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and captivating audiences with its story of a superhero family balancing extraordinary powers with everyday life. The sequel, Incredibles 2, while not as universally acclaimed, nearly doubled the original’s box office, proving the enduring appeal of the Parr family.

Though no official release date has been announced, industry speculation points to a 2027 or 2028 premiere. Fans eagerly await to see how Sohn’s direction will shape the next chapter in the Parr family’s adventures and whether the new creative leadership will bring fresh energy to this beloved series.

Why the Director Change Matters

Changing directors in a major franchise can be risky, but Pixar’s collaborative culture mitigates this. Sohn’s prior work shows his capability to handle complex storytelling and emotional depth, which are critical to the Incredibles’ success. Meanwhile, Bird’s continued involvement as the scriptwriter ensures narrative continuity and preserves the franchise’s core spirit.

This transition highlights how creative leadership in animation is evolving. Directors often juggle multiple projects, and studios must adapt by fostering strong teams that can maintain quality even when key personnel shift. Pixar’s model exemplifies this balance between individual vision and collective input.

Looking Ahead to Incredibles 3

With Brad Bird crafting the script and Peter Sohn directing, Incredibles 3 promises to blend the franchise’s classic storytelling with fresh creative perspectives. The Parr family’s return will likely explore new challenges and dynamics, continuing to engage audiences who have grown up with these characters.

As the release window approaches, industry watchers and fans alike will be keen to see how Pixar balances innovation with tradition. This project underscores the importance of adaptability in creative industries and the power of collaborative filmmaking.