First Look at ‘Jumanji: Open World’ Features an Ostrich Stampede

Few franchises have transformed a simple board game concept as effectively as ‘Jumanji’. Originating from a children’s book, it evolved into a beloved family classic, and the modern reboot solidified its status as a holiday-season box office hit. Now, the series is gearing up for its farewell.

Jake Kasdan directed both ‘Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle’ in 2017 and ‘Jumanji: The Next Level’ in 2019. These sequels received positive reviews from critics, paving the way for a third and final adventure. ‘Jumanji: Open World’ is set to be the fifth and concluding installment in the franchise.

Sony has just revealed the first look at the film, and it certainly grabs attention. The image showcases the four leads in their jungle attire, with Dwayne Johnson at the forefront, followed by Karen Gillan, Jack Black, and Kevin Hart. Behind them, a horde of giant ostriches approaches from all directions, with a snowy city street in the backdrop.

The tagline reads “Two worlds collide. One final game,” and the promotional artwork announces that the film will hit theaters this Christmas, emphasizing premium formats. The blend of jungle adventurers and a wintry urban landscape encapsulates the film’s premise, confirming what the initial trailer hinted at last month: ‘Jumanji’ has now escaped into the real world.

The appearance of the ostriches is intentional. At the conclusion of ‘The Next Level’, a flock of them is seen outside a restaurant, leading the characters to realize that creatures from the game have escaped into the real world. This cliffhanger now serves as the backdrop for the grand finale.

The official synopsis reveals that the heroes have previously navigated the dangerous jungles of ‘Jumanji’, but this time, the game breaks free from its console, unleashing chaos into our world. This twist offers a fresh perspective, as the game now pursues the characters instead of the other way around.

Returning cast members include Nick Jonas, Awkwafina, Alex Wolff, Morgan Turner, Ser’Darius Blain, Madison Iseman, Danny DeVito, and Rhys Darby. Bebe Neuwirth and Lamorne Morris will also reprise their roles, while Burn Gorman and Nasim Pedrad join the franchise, alongside newcomer Brittany O’Grady.

Kasdan returns to direct from a script he co-wrote with Jeff Pinkner and Scott Rosenberg. He also serves as a producer alongside Johnson, Dany Garcia, Hiram Garcia, and Matt Tolmach. This continuity should reassure fans who appreciated the chemistry of the previous films.

The film’s journey has been longer than most sequels. Kasdan confirmed early development back in 2020, but the COVID-19 pandemic caused delays. Production commenced on November 11, 2025, in Los Angeles and wrapped in March.

The full title was announced at CinemaCon in April, and the release date was shifted from December 11 to Christmas Day in March. This places it firmly in a holiday slot the franchise is familiar with, as both previous sequels debuted in December.

One. Last. Game. The final countdown begins. Watch the new trailer for #Jumanji: Open World – exclusively in theatres Christmas Day. https://t.co/a2N0wjsFhT

— Jumanji Movie (@jumanjimovie) July 29, 2026

Wrapping up a franchise is always a delicate task. ‘Jumanji: Open World’ must deliver both big laughs and thrilling action while providing a fitting farewell for the core cast. The ostrich stampede is a promising indication that the film embraces the humor that made the earlier entries so beloved.

The tone of the new image also suggests a series that understands its identity. The four leads strike confident, slightly exasperated poses, aligning with their on-screen dynamic. If the marketing is any indication, viewers can anticipate a blend of comedy and spectacle.

With a Christmas Day release on the horizon, the final game is nearly upon us. Whether this conclusion lives up to the series’ legacy remains to be seen, but early signs are encouraging.

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