In a move that’s generating excitement across music, film, and family entertainment circles, Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, the acclaimed drummer, producer, and Oscar-winning documentarian, is stepping into the director’s chair for a bold live-action hybrid reimagining of Disney’s beloved 1970 animated classic The Aristocats. Scheduled for a wide theatrical release in the summer of 2027, this project marks Questlove’s highly anticipated narrative feature debut, blending cutting-edge CGI with live-action elements to bring the jazzy Parisian feline adventure into the modern era.

The original The Aristocats, released in December 1970, was one of the last projects personally approved by Walt Disney himself before his passing. Set in 1910 Paris, it follows the elegant Duchess and her three mischievous kittens—Marie, Berlioz, and Toulouse—as they inherit a vast fortune from their wealthy owner, Madame Adelaide Bonfamille. Jealous butler Edgar kidnaps the cats and abandons them in the countryside, forcing them to team up with the street-smart alley cat Thomas O’Malley and his ragtag band of jazz-loving allies to find their way home. Filled with memorable songs like “Ev’rybody Wants to Be a Cat,” “Scales and Arpeggios,” and the swinging “Thomas O’Malley Cat,” the film became a timeless favorite for its charming characters, vibrant animation, and infectious jazz soundtrack.

Now, over five decades later, Questlove—founding member of the legendary hip-hop band The Roots and house band leader on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon—is infusing this story with fresh energy. Known for his deep passion for music history and culture, Questlove will not only direct but also executive produce and oversee the film’s music, promising an updated score that honors the original’s jazz roots while incorporating contemporary influences like hip-hop, soul, and funk. This hybrid approach, similar to successful blends in films like Sonic the Hedgehog or Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers, will feature photorealistic CGI cats interacting seamlessly with live-action human characters and Parisian settings.

Questlove’s journey to this project has been building for years. After bursting onto the filmmaking scene with his 2021 documentary Summer of Soul (…Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised), which unearthed forgotten footage of the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival and won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, he expressed a desire to helm a family-friendly narrative film. His prior collaboration with Disney—voicing a character and consulting on music for Pixar’s Soul—made him a natural fit for The Aristocats, a story steeped in musical heritage. Questlove has shared his enthusiasm for reinterpreting the iconic “Ev’rybody Wants to Be a Cat” sequence, envisioning it as a multicultural celebration of rhythm and resilience, drawing from global influences to make it resonate with today’s audiences.

The screenplay, penned by Will Gluck (Peter Rabbit) and Keith Bunin (Onward), retains the core adventure while expanding on themes of family, class, and belonging. Duchess remains the poised matriarch, guiding her kittens through peril with grace, while O’Malley embodies cool confidence and resourcefulness. The film will update sensitive elements from the original, ensuring a more inclusive portrayal that reflects modern values without losing the whimsical charm. Production is ramping up in 2026, with filming planned across stunning Paris locations and state-of-the-art studios for the animal effects. Disney’s visual effects teams, fresh off triumphs in recent hybrids, aim to create expressive, lifelike cats that capture the personalities fans adore—fluffy Marie’s sweetness, Toulouse’s artistic flair, and Berlioz’s playful energy.

Casting rumors are swirling, with Questlove hinting at a diverse ensemble of voice talent drawn from music and acting worlds. Potential names floated include rising stars for the kittens and established icons for O’Malley and the jazz cat crew, perhaps featuring cameos from musicians Questlove admires. The human roles, like Madame Bonfamille and the scheming Edgar, are expected to draw acclaimed actors to ground the fantasy in emotional reality. This theatrical push—targeting a prime 2027 slot—signals Disney’s confidence in the project’s broad appeal, positioning it as a family event film amid a slate of originals and sequels.

What sets this reimagining apart is Questlove’s unique vision. As a curator of Black excellence in music through projects like his books and podcasts, he brings a layered perspective to a story about outsiders finding their place. The jazz elements, central to the original, will be elevated with live performances and innovative sound design, potentially featuring original tracks alongside reworked classics. Early concept art depicts vibrant Paris nights alive with swinging cats under Eiffel Tower lights, blending nostalgia with contemporary flair.

Disney’s ongoing strategy of revisiting animated gems has yielded massive successes, and The Aristocats offers untapped potential. Less overhauled than juggernauts like The Lion King or Beauty and the Beast, it allows room for creative risks. Questlove’s involvement ensures musical authenticity, appealing to parents who grew up with the original and kids discovering it anew. The 2027 release aligns with summer blockbuster season, aiming for global box office dominance while streaming later on Disney+.

Behind the scenes, Questlove’s production company, Two One Five Entertainment, collaborates with Disney veterans. His Roots bandmate Black Thought and manager Shawn Gee serve as executive producers, bringing a tight-knit creative team. This project fulfills Questlove’s goal of crafting uplifting stories, especially after his documentary successes exploring cultural milestones.

As pre-production advances, anticipation grows. Trailers expected in late 2026 will showcase the hybrid magic—adorable CGI kittens navigating real-world Paris, backed by a pulsating soundtrack. Fans are buzzing about how Questlove will modernize the adventure, perhaps adding layers of empowerment and diversity to Duchess’s journey.

In an industry craving feel-good escapism, Questlove’s The Aristocats promises joy, rhythm, and heart. With its mix of classic charm and innovative storytelling, this 2027 release could prove everybody still wants to be a cat—especially under Questlove’s direction.