Disney+ and Walt Disney Records are giving viewers a sneak(er) peek at the upcoming Disney+ original movie Sneakerella with the music video debut of “Kicks,” performed by Chosen Jacobs.
This trend-setting pop/hip-hop musical begins streaming May 13 on Disney+ and puts a contemporary twist on the Cinderella fairy tale.
Available to watch below, “Kicks” is the film’s opening musical sequence and introduces El (Jacobs) and his affinity for sneakers as he glides his way through the vibrant street-sneaker subculture of New York City.
The song was written by Antonina Armato, Tim James Price, Thomas Armato Sturges, and Adam Schmalholz and produced by Antonina Armato and Tim James Price. The stand-out dance sequence is choreographed by Ebony Williams and Emilio Dosal.
In addition to Chosen Jacobs, Sneakerella stars a multitalented, diverse ensemble cast, including Lexi Underwood, John Salley, Devyn Nekoda, Juan Chioran, Bryan Terrell Clark, Kolton Stewart, Robyn Alomar, Yvonne Senat-Jones and Hayward Leach.
Sneakerella is a Disney+ original movie from Disney Branded Television, directed and co-executive produced by Elizabeth Allen Rosenbaum. Jane Startz and Rachel Watanabe-Batton serve as executive producers.
The teleplay was written by David Light & Joseph Raso, Tamara Chestna, and Mindy Stern & George Gore II. It is based on a story by Stern & Gore and Light & Raso. Chestna also serves as a co-executive producer.
Sneakerella features eight new original songs covering a variety of music genres, including pop, R&B, and hip-hop, creating a towering soundtrack that takes the story to a whole new level. The digital original soundtrack will be released on May 13; the physical will be available on June 24.
Written and composed by a mix of acclaimed songwriters who have worked across high-profile projects, including the Descendants, High School Musical: The Musical: The Series and Zombies franchises, as well as Empire and Straight Outta Compton, the songs are contemporary in feel, lyrical in content and relevant to today’s young audiences.
Award-winning composer Elvin Ross is the composer of the movie. Williams and Dosal are choreographers on the film, and acclaimed choreographer Christopher Scott serves as a co-producer on the movie.
In Sneakerella, El is an aspiring sneaker designer from Queens who works as a stock boy in a shoe store and hides his artistic talent. Sparks fly after a chance encounter with Kira King, the daughter of sneaker royalty and a Manhattan Princess Charming of sorts.
With a nudge from his best friend and a touch of magic, El finds the courage to lace up and dream big.
“‘Sneakerella’ brings a vibrant, modern approach to a beloved story by suggesting that magic is the result of hard work and determination and exists within each of us,” said Lauren Kisilevsky, vice president of Original Movies, Disney Channel.
“Liz Allen’s unique vision, Lexi and Chosen’s amazing chemistry, the incredible music, and the gravity-defying choreography will bring this movie to life and inspire audiences of all ages.”
Mirko Parlevliet has been reporting on the entertainment industry since 1998 and founded Vital Thrills in 2018 to cover the latest news on streaming, movies, TV, and video games.