According to JV Pixar News, there are rumors of a CARS 2 sequel already in the planning stages.

But Pixar said they hated sequels:

True, but that was because when they signed their distro deal with Disney, they didn’t realize Toy Story 2 didn’t count in that tally – that they needed a total of 5 original films to complete their contract so of course, making sequels just extended the contract further and creatively, sequels do tend to be less satisfying. But now as part of Disney, whatever films they actually release doesn’t matter whether it’s Toy Story 3 or Wall-E.

Straight to DVD sequel?

“In a major strategy shift, the Walt Disney Co. said it will stop making lucrative direct-to-DVD sequels of such classic animated films as Cinderella, a move that reflects the growing influence of former Pixar Animation executives John Lasseter and Steve Jobs, who once called the films “embarrassing.”

In other words, no.

Pixar takes years to make a movie …

True. So, according to “normal” schedule, we shouldn’t expect a CARS 2 very soon.

Pixar does one movie a year …

Yes, you are correct, sir so maybe 2011? Since 2008 is Wall-E, 2009 is “Up” and 2010 is TS 3 …

But now as part of Disney?

They prefer to only make one movie a year but CARS might be different. The change from TS1 and TS 2 was also technology but now technology is fairly stabilized – sure, you can get more processing power cheaper but a leap in technology? Not really. CARS might be simpler since the only the front and eyes of the car changes as it’s moving along so maybe a sequel can be completed faster.

No evidence of sequel

Unless they’re taking on the secrecy of Apple Computers, no actor claims they are working on the sequel. There apparently is a ‘short’ that might play in front of next year’s “Wall-E.”

Paul Newman and 2009?

Apparently Paul Newman said something about a CARS sequel in 2009 but maybe he was refering to the short? Also from JV Pixar News via MiceAge.

But Cars wasn’t a massive hit

Yes, but DVD sales are strong and while people mumble about sequels, they go and see them even if they are middling efforts like Ice Age or Shrek 3.

Merchandising

In case you hadn’t notice, CARS merchandise is selling like the movie came out yesterday. The diecast line is flying off the shelves a year later – rare for movie licensing now and virtually unheard of for a diecast line … (In case you’ve missed out, our post to get you up to speed).

People are clamoring – whether Pixar is interested or delivers a sequel is another matter … right now, I would think 2011 is much more likely than 2009.

All the Cards & CARS Lining Up?

Coincidentially or NOT, 2011 is the 10th anniversary of Disney’s California Adventure and they are unveiling a new CARSLAND section.

From Disney’s Annual Report (link above), they offer up drawings of future rides and attractions – lots of Pixar rides & attractions.

So, what could be a better tie-in? A new ride and a movie to open on the same day – June 17, 2011? (Friday and the beginning of summer break)? See you in line.

OUR OTHER POSTS:

THE BASICS

If you want a recap of the Mattel Pixar CARS line from the beginning.

Mattel Pixar Cars Checklist: It’s What to Collect

Unlike other toys/hot items that stay hot for a few weeks or months – this Mattel Pixar CARS diecast line has pretty been SIZZLING for 16 months – not just rare but almost un-heard of.

Of course, we would love to tell you that if you show up here at 7:00 AM, you are assured of seeing it on the shelve un-touched … or course, that is not really possible with this line due to real demand and eBay “re-distribution” demand but we have tried to sum up why it’s seems impossible and some buying tips that while not foolproof, might make things slightly easier …

Mattel Pixar Cars: I Want to Buy But Where?

BUYING CASES & WHAT’S NEXT

First, one way to skip the driving around is to buy sealed cases, here is a brief rundown on what that is AND what are the CARS coming this holiday season (the last two months of 2007):

Mattel Pixar Cars Checklist: New Sealed Boxes

And what’s coming in 2008:

Mattel Pixar Cars Checklist: New Sealed Boxes Holiday 2007 & 2008

Or what the latest on the shelf cards & CARS look like?

Mattel Pixar: What’s in Stores Now

HOW TO COLLECT

For those on the intermediate & advanced stages of this obsession (yes, I has the fever! I has the fever 🙂 ) … you’ll want a “field guide” to spotting what’s what:

A Basic Checklist (in spreadsheet form)

The checklist offers a few versions on how you like your poison 😉

Then of course, a more indepth guideline on how to collect them – just one of each? one of each available on a different card?

Mattel Pixar Cars Checklist: How to Collect

As you progress further, you might need or want a guide to understanding what do the three different designs on the front indicate and how complete of a collector you want to be:

Mattel Pixar Cars Checklist: Card Backs

Info on the Blu-Ray Dinoco “Blu” CAR

The LIMITED & EXCLUSIVE Disney Blu-Ray “Blu” Dinoco McQueen

MORE INFORMATION THAN NORMAL

Of course, by now, you’ll want to know everything and plan your budget carefully … Mattel will definitely release 35/36 of the Piston Cup Racers in one massive collector’s set but will they release them in smaller sets? Our speculation on why rioting is probably not necessary:

Mattel Pixar Cars: All the Piston Cup CARS-Speedway of the South Box Set

Did you know the Blu-Ray DVD (for HDTV’s) will include a “name-spotter” feature that will let you see the names of 217 CARS within the movie?

Mattel Pixar Cars Checklist: It’s What to Collect-Part II – 217 CARS?

And while we’re at it – pure speculation on our part as to what might be coming next?

Mattel Pixar Cars: What’s Coming in 2008 or 2009

Mattel Pixar Cars: What’s Coming in 2008 or 2009? Part II

Mattel Pixar Cars: Mia & Tia – All the Possible Variants

MORE USEFUL INFORMATION

Details on the Mattel sponsorship & CARS charity auction for CAAF (Children Affected by AIDS Foundation):

Mattel Pixar Cars & Children Affected by AIDS Charity Auction

While Frank the Combine on eBay seems enticing, you might want to know that he’s very small and all plastic but there are some other options …

Mattel Pixar CARS Movie: Frank the Combine – eBay Warning

Too much money in your bank account – starting collecting the other CARS line …

NEW Mini Adventures CARS & Playsets

The Sarge Recall:

Mattel Recalls Pixar CARS Sarge Diecast Metal Car

Nothing very insightful about what’s coming but still good to know that CARS is bringing in money and everything is looking smooth.

Mattel Pixar Cars: 3rd Quarter 2007 Earnings-Financial Numbers

CARS 2, THE SEQUEL?

Yes, more speculation & answers on our part but the stars and other things seem to be syncing up for a 2011 sequel:

Pixar CARS 2 Sequel: Rumors, Rumors, Rumors