Pixar Donates Mobile Movie Theater to Oakland Children’s Hospital

Pixar’s “Elemental” just debuted on the silver screen and while children and families around the world will be hitting the cinemas, for certain groups such as those in children’s hospitals, going to movie theaters may not be an option due to health constraints.

At Disney, we work to deliver joy when it’s needed most, which is why patients at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital – Oakland and their families were recently invited to experience an exclusive screening of the film on a new mobile movie theater gifted by Pixar and accompanied by a surprise visit from local Pixar artists.

Inspired by the cinema on Main Street, U.S.A., at Disneyland Resort in California, mobile movie theaters provide kids and their families the opportunity to ease the fear and anxiety of a hospital stay by gathering to create memories while enjoying complimentary Disney+ content or films that just released in theaters via the Disney Movie Moments program.

As a take on the “in-theater experience,” the mobile movie theaters allow viewings to be set up in different areas throughout the hospital due to its ease of use and versatility. Unlike stationary displays or traditional theaters, this option provides flexible entertainment that can be stored away when not in use to maximize valuable hospital space.

The mobile movie theater is part of a larger, global initiative to support children’s hospitals and pediatric places of care. In 2018, Disney announced a $100 million commitment to help reimagine the patient experience in children’s hospitals worldwide. This support involves transforming hospital spaces with interactive murals and digital equipment featuring captivating Disney content and beloved characters along with personalized moments through Disney-themed hospital wear, care packages, and products. Additionally, specially designed training classes and staff badges globally support dedicated hospital staff. These efforts build upon a legacy of supporting children and families that dates back to the 1930s, when Walt Disney first began visiting hospitalized children, and we look forward to even more magical moments to come. 

For more information about Disney’s Children’s Hospital Initiative, please visit joy.disney.com.