As I have written before, I love to pay attention to all the signage around the Disney Parks. This is one of my favorites from Muppet*Vision 3D at Hollywood Studios in Walt Disney World.
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| © Steven Liebman |
Saturday, 30 June 2012
Friday, 29 June 2012
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| A glimpse from Disney of the upcoming doll collection. |
Don't you just love the bad girls? Well, that's what Disney is banking on with the release of the Disney Villains Designer Collection this fall at its stores and DisneyStore.com.
Last year the company released its Disney Princess Designer Collection, and now it's moving over to the dark side.
There will be 13,000 limited edition dolls of each of six villains: Cruella de Vil (101 Dalmatians), Evil Queen (Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs), Ursula (The Little Mermaid), Mother Gothel (Tangled), Maleficent (Sleeping Beauty) and the Queen of Hearts (Alice in Wonderland), according to a company news release.
"Our design team created a frightfully beautiful collection that is a new and exciting interpretation of the classic Disney Villains we love to hate,” John Balen, director of hardlines for Disney Store, said in the release.
There will also be villains apparel and accessories, which will be available starting in August. The 11½-inch dolls are adorned from head to toe in satin and sequins. For a limited time, a limited quantity will be available online, and then individual dolls will be released over six weeks beginning in September; every Monday in stores and every Tuesday online. They should retail at $79.50 each.
Here's a rundown on the Villain apparel from the news release:
Apparel & Accessories: There are six fashion tops inspired by the Disney Villains, adorned with rhinestone detailing and foil techniques. The Villains accessory line includes a sequined tote bag, wallet and silk scarves, all featuring artwork inspired by the Disney Villains Designer Dolls. Available at DisneyStore.com in August and at Disney Store locations nationwide in September. Retail price is $14.50 and up.
Beauty: The Villains beauty line features cosmetics inspired by the Villains, including a 3-pack lip gloss set, a 6-color eye palette with eyeliner, a 6-color nail polish assortment, cosmetic bag and compact mirror. Available at DisneyStore.com in August and at Disney Store locations nationwide in September. Retail price is $14.50 and up.
Home & Stationery: Detailed ceramic mugs, stationery sets and exclusive character lithographs all inspired by the Disney Villains Designer Collection artwork will be for sale starting at a retail price of $12.50 and up. They will be available at DisneyStore.com in August and at Disney Store locations nationwide in September.
Last year the company released its Disney Princess Designer Collection, and now it's moving over to the dark side.
There will be 13,000 limited edition dolls of each of six villains: Cruella de Vil (101 Dalmatians), Evil Queen (Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs), Ursula (The Little Mermaid), Mother Gothel (Tangled), Maleficent (Sleeping Beauty) and the Queen of Hearts (Alice in Wonderland), according to a company news release.
"Our design team created a frightfully beautiful collection that is a new and exciting interpretation of the classic Disney Villains we love to hate,” John Balen, director of hardlines for Disney Store, said in the release.
There will also be villains apparel and accessories, which will be available starting in August. The 11½-inch dolls are adorned from head to toe in satin and sequins. For a limited time, a limited quantity will be available online, and then individual dolls will be released over six weeks beginning in September; every Monday in stores and every Tuesday online. They should retail at $79.50 each.
Here's a rundown on the Villain apparel from the news release:
Apparel & Accessories: There are six fashion tops inspired by the Disney Villains, adorned with rhinestone detailing and foil techniques. The Villains accessory line includes a sequined tote bag, wallet and silk scarves, all featuring artwork inspired by the Disney Villains Designer Dolls. Available at DisneyStore.com in August and at Disney Store locations nationwide in September. Retail price is $14.50 and up.
Beauty: The Villains beauty line features cosmetics inspired by the Villains, including a 3-pack lip gloss set, a 6-color eye palette with eyeliner, a 6-color nail polish assortment, cosmetic bag and compact mirror. Available at DisneyStore.com in August and at Disney Store locations nationwide in September. Retail price is $14.50 and up.
Home & Stationery: Detailed ceramic mugs, stationery sets and exclusive character lithographs all inspired by the Disney Villains Designer Collection artwork will be for sale starting at a retail price of $12.50 and up. They will be available at DisneyStore.com in August and at Disney Store locations nationwide in September.
Here's a view of Harper's Mill on Tom Sawyer Island in Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom. Inside the mill is a scene from Disney's "The Old Mill," a 1937 Silly Symphonies cartoon showing animals living in an abandoned windmill riding out a thunderstorm. The gears inside the windmill "creak" to the tune of "Down by the Old Mill Stream."
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| © Steven Liebman |
Thursday, 28 June 2012
The trailer for the upcoming Disney movie "Wreck-It-Ralph" was a lot of fun. Since it all takes place in a video game world, you had to wonder if there would be a video game tie-in.
Sure enough, this week Activision Publishing announced that the video game will coincide with the Nov. 2 release of the movie this fall.
In "Wreck-It Ralph," video game character Ralph (the voice of John C. Reilly) is tired of being overshadowed by Fix-It Felix (voice of Jack McBrayer), the "good guy" star of their game who always gets to save the day. But after decades of doing the same thing and seeing all the glory go to Felix, Ralph decides he's tired of playing the role of a bad guy and sets off on a game-hopping journey across the arcade universe trying to prove he can be the hero. And yes, there will be cameos by Pac-Man and qBert.
The video game will pick up where the movie leaves off as Ralph partners with Fix-It Felix to save their friends and home from a huge Cy-Bug invasion. Pounding through all-new levels in the "Wreck-It Ralph" universe, like Sugar Rush, Hero's Duty, and Fix-It Felix, Jr., players will have to use Ralph's destructive strength to beat by the Cy-Bugs, while switching back to Felix to repair the damage.
More to come later.
Sure enough, this week Activision Publishing announced that the video game will coincide with the Nov. 2 release of the movie this fall.
In "Wreck-It Ralph," video game character Ralph (the voice of John C. Reilly) is tired of being overshadowed by Fix-It Felix (voice of Jack McBrayer), the "good guy" star of their game who always gets to save the day. But after decades of doing the same thing and seeing all the glory go to Felix, Ralph decides he's tired of playing the role of a bad guy and sets off on a game-hopping journey across the arcade universe trying to prove he can be the hero. And yes, there will be cameos by Pac-Man and qBert.
The video game will pick up where the movie leaves off as Ralph partners with Fix-It Felix to save their friends and home from a huge Cy-Bug invasion. Pounding through all-new levels in the "Wreck-It Ralph" universe, like Sugar Rush, Hero's Duty, and Fix-It Felix, Jr., players will have to use Ralph's destructive strength to beat by the Cy-Bugs, while switching back to Felix to repair the damage.
More to come later.
Wednesday, 27 June 2012
You will soon be able to start making reservations for the new Be Our Guest Restaurant in the revamped Fantasyland at the Magic Kingdom.
The Disney Parks Blog announced the restaurant will open by the holidays and guests will be able to start making reservations in August.
Chef Michael Deardorf has been in charge of Disney kitchens for 25 years, most recently as part of the opening of the restaurants at the Aulani Disney Resort in Hawaii.
Be Our Guest will have three dining rooms which will seat more than 500 people.
Lunch will be fancier quick service than in other restaurants. Guest-activated terminals will be used for ordering. After ordering, you head to a seat and food is delivered on china.
Dinner will be table service with "diverse starters such as a charcuterie plate with cured meats and sausages, mussels steamed in white wine, French onion or potato leek soup, and a salad with champagne vinaigrette," according to the blog.
Entrées include a thyme-scented pork rack chop with au gratin pasta, rotisserie rock hen with roasted fingerling potatoes, pan-seared salmon in leek fondue, grilled strip steak with pommes frites, sautéed shrimp and scallops with veggies in puff pastry with creamy lobster sauce, and oven-baked ratatouille.
Desserts will include cupcakes, a chocolate cream puff and a passion fruit cream puff.
The Disney Parks Blog announced the restaurant will open by the holidays and guests will be able to start making reservations in August.
Chef Michael Deardorf has been in charge of Disney kitchens for 25 years, most recently as part of the opening of the restaurants at the Aulani Disney Resort in Hawaii.
Be Our Guest will have three dining rooms which will seat more than 500 people.
Lunch will be fancier quick service than in other restaurants. Guest-activated terminals will be used for ordering. After ordering, you head to a seat and food is delivered on china.
Dinner will be table service with "diverse starters such as a charcuterie plate with cured meats and sausages, mussels steamed in white wine, French onion or potato leek soup, and a salad with champagne vinaigrette," according to the blog.
Entrées include a thyme-scented pork rack chop with au gratin pasta, rotisserie rock hen with roasted fingerling potatoes, pan-seared salmon in leek fondue, grilled strip steak with pommes frites, sautéed shrimp and scallops with veggies in puff pastry with creamy lobster sauce, and oven-baked ratatouille.
Desserts will include cupcakes, a chocolate cream puff and a passion fruit cream puff.
Each day, according to a Disney news release, a chef from one of Downtown Disney’s restaurants will take stage to demonstrate some dishes featuring California avocados. Afterthe cooking demonstration, there will be an interactive “Guac Off” competition where a select number of people will be chosen to create a personalized guacamole recipe using a selection of ingredients. Daily grand prize winners will receive a $100 Downtown Disney gift card and $85 California avocado gift pack.
In addition, throughout the week, restaurants in Downtown Disney will feature special California
avocado menu items and Sephora will offer refreshing avocado facials.
Here is the schedule for the week with the chefs participating and the dishes they will make:
Sunday, July 1: Chef Meyer, House of Blues, California Avocado and Blue Cheese Crusted Rib Eye
Monday, July 2: Chef Thomas Keaveny, ESPN Zone, Mini California Avocado Shrimp Clubs and Grilled Chicken California Avocado Wrap
Tuesday, July 3: Chef Dore Sommer, Rainforest Cafe, Awesome Appetizer Adventure and Guacamole Burger
Wednesday, July 4: Chef Alejandro Reyna, La Brea Bakery, Shrimp and Salsa Stuffed California Avocado and Turkey California Avocado Sandwich
Thursday, July 5: Chef Darrin Finkel, Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen, Fried Green Tomato BLT with California Avocado and Jazz Kitchen French Quarter Salad with California Avocado
Friday, July 6: Chef Jose Estrada, Tortilla Jo's, Ceviche de Huauchinango Shots and Shrimp and California Avocado Enchiladas
Saturday, July 7: Chef Nick Weber, Catal Restaurant, Tartare of Hamachi with Shisho, Micro Cilantro and California Avocado and Jalapeno Sorbet
An indoor theme park dedicated to Marvel characters will open in Dubai by the end of 2013, according to various news reports.
The 350,000-square-foot Marvel Adventure, located in the City of Arabia, will include retail outlets, dining facilities and a range of interactive entertainment experiences featuring Marvel characters, a report on Emeriates 24/7.
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| Spider-Man could be swinging his way into Dubai. |
A ground-breaking took place on Tuesday.
The idea of the theme park is not new. The concept dates to 2007 when the park was to contain massive roller coasters and thrill rides like Flying With Spidey, Fantasticar and X-Men: Danger Room. Much of the concept art for that project can be found on the Disney and More website. The project was placed on hold when the world economy tanked and is now being replaced with a smaller version. The new project is about twice the size of a typical SuperTarget store.
“Following the outstanding global and local box office success of Marvel’s The Avengers, and the strong affinity for Marvel in the UAE, we are thrilled to be working with the IMG Group to bring Marvel’s most popular characters to kids and families across Dubai,” Simon Philips, president of Marvel Entertainment International, said.
In March Disney president and CEO Bob Iger told shareholders that Disney was working on plans to bring Marvel and other Disney characters that are popular with boys into its theme parks. Maybe this is what he was talking about.
March was also when Julian Munoz, the director of marketing and sales at Disneyland Paris, talked with officials in the United Arab Emirates about possibly bringing a Disneyland to Dubai. No plans came out of that meeting, but Munoz left it open that anything is possible in the future.
The idea of the theme park is not new. The concept dates to 2007 when the park was to contain massive roller coasters and thrill rides like Flying With Spidey, Fantasticar and X-Men: Danger Room. Much of the concept art for that project can be found on the Disney and More website. The project was placed on hold when the world economy tanked and is now being replaced with a smaller version. The new project is about twice the size of a typical SuperTarget store.
“Following the outstanding global and local box office success of Marvel’s The Avengers, and the strong affinity for Marvel in the UAE, we are thrilled to be working with the IMG Group to bring Marvel’s most popular characters to kids and families across Dubai,” Simon Philips, president of Marvel Entertainment International, said.
In March Disney president and CEO Bob Iger told shareholders that Disney was working on plans to bring Marvel and other Disney characters that are popular with boys into its theme parks. Maybe this is what he was talking about.
March was also when Julian Munoz, the director of marketing and sales at Disneyland Paris, talked with officials in the United Arab Emirates about possibly bringing a Disneyland to Dubai. No plans came out of that meeting, but Munoz left it open that anything is possible in the future.
More Marvel News
Tuesday, 26 June 2012
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| © Steven Liebman The exterior of the special Halloween Haunted Mansion. |
Disney this week has announced its plans for Halloween Time at Disneyland.
From September 14 to October 31 Disneyland will be transformed into Halloween land with special Halloween-themed attractions such as Space Mountain and Haunted Mansion Holiday, according to the Disney Parks Blog.
In addition, special Mickey's Halloween Party dates have been announced:
In addition, special Mickey's Halloween Party dates have been announced:
September 28 – 7 p.m. to 12 a.m.
October 2 – 6 to 11 p.m.
October 5 – 7 p.m. to 12 a.m.
October 9 – 6 to 11 p.m.
October 12 – 7 p.m. to 12 a.m.
October 15 – 6 to 11 p.m.
October 19 – 7 p.m. to 12 a.m.
October 23 – 6 to 11 p.m.
October 26 – 7 p.m. to 12 a.m.
October 29 – 6 to 11 p.m.
October 31 – 6 to 11 p.m.
Tickets, which range from $46 to $69 for annual pass holders and from $54 to $69, go on sale July 9 for annual pass holders and July 16 for the general public.
If you want to head to Disney World for Halloween, here's information for Mickey's-Not-So-Scary Halloween Party.
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| A look at The Amazing Spider-Man video game. |
The game, now available across the U.S. and will be available June 29 in Europe, is an epilogue to the upcoming movie, as players take the role of a young Peter Parker discovering his newfound powers, according to a news release.
"Dee Brown and his team at Beenox have completely revamped The Amazing Spider-Man’s proprietary game engine to deliver a fresh, innovative gameplay experience for the fans," David Oxford, Executive Vice President and General Manager, Activision Publishing, Inc., said in the release. “With the adrenaline rush from just swinging through the city and the new zoomed-in camera angle opening up a whole new perspective in realistic detail, The Amazing Spider-Man allows gamers to BE Spider-Man like never before.”
The video game is being touted to allow players to experience numerous choices in navigation and combat with the debut of the innovative Web Rush gameplay mechanic, pushing Spider-Man’s abilities to the limit against classic Marvel villains that are re-imagined exclusively for the game, such as Scorpion, Felicia Hardy, Rhino, Iguana and others.
The game is s available on the Xbox 36 video, PlayStation3, the Wii system, Nintendo 3DS™ and Nintendo DS™ handheld systems.
There is a Windows PC version of the game planned to launch Aug. 10.
Monday, 25 June 2012
It's always fun to watch the construction of attractions at Disney. What's even more fun is taking a look back a few years after the attractions are built. Here's a look at Expedition Everest at Animal Kingdom in Disney World while it was under construction. The ride opened April 7, 2006.
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| © Steven Liebman |
Sometimes it sounds so good to be a D23 member. The number of events is growing and the special added thrills always seem to be fun, especially dinner inside an attraction at Walt Disney World.
D23 has added a feast to its Halloween annual Sip & Stroll event inside The Great Movie Ride in Hollywood Studios.
For those who purchase the "Super Scream" package, beginning Oct. 2, there is a Hollywood Studios nighttime costume party stopping first for a tour of the Creative Costuming building, where guests will have a chance to see where some of Disney’s most detailed outfits are designed and constructed. Then it’s off to dinner inside The Great Movie Ride. This dinner starts off with drinks in the gangster’s den, dinner in the old west, and for dessert - the "Wizard of Oz. "
Wednesday, Oct. 3 begins at 10 a.m. with coffee and tea provided inside World ShowPlace, where guests will be treated to presentations highlighting this year’s Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. At 1 p.m., guests will have the opportunity to stroll World Showcase and Future World at their leisure. The hospitality suite inside The American Adventure pavilion will be open during this time, exclusively for Sip & Scream guests to relax and cool down.
At 7 p.m. attendees head to the America Gardens Theater for reserved seating to see Sugar Ray perform in concert. Following the concert, a walk over to the France pavilion, for a dessert party and private viewing of IllumiNations with special “Mickey Vision” glasses.
The $320 "Super Scream" package go on sale Wednesday, June 27 at 10 a.m. PST.
D23 has added a feast to its Halloween annual Sip & Stroll event inside The Great Movie Ride in Hollywood Studios.For those who purchase the "Super Scream" package, beginning Oct. 2, there is a Hollywood Studios nighttime costume party stopping first for a tour of the Creative Costuming building, where guests will have a chance to see where some of Disney’s most detailed outfits are designed and constructed. Then it’s off to dinner inside The Great Movie Ride. This dinner starts off with drinks in the gangster’s den, dinner in the old west, and for dessert - the "Wizard of Oz. "
Wednesday, Oct. 3 begins at 10 a.m. with coffee and tea provided inside World ShowPlace, where guests will be treated to presentations highlighting this year’s Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. At 1 p.m., guests will have the opportunity to stroll World Showcase and Future World at their leisure. The hospitality suite inside The American Adventure pavilion will be open during this time, exclusively for Sip & Scream guests to relax and cool down.
At 7 p.m. attendees head to the America Gardens Theater for reserved seating to see Sugar Ray perform in concert. Following the concert, a walk over to the France pavilion, for a dessert party and private viewing of IllumiNations with special “Mickey Vision” glasses.
The $320 "Super Scream" package go on sale Wednesday, June 27 at 10 a.m. PST.
Sunday, 24 June 2012
Disney Pixar's "Brave" beat out "Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted" and "Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter" in its opening weekend with $66.7 million and ranks in the middle of Pixar opening weekends.
The movie features the story of Princess Merida (voice of Kelly Macdonald) confronting tradition, destiny and the fiercest of beasts. She is a skilled archer and impetuous daughter of King Fergus (voice of Billy Connolly) and Queen Elinor (voice of Emma Thompson).
Determined to carve her own path in life, Merida defies an age-old custom of having suitors win her hand in competition. She unleashes chaos and fury in the kingdom and when she turns to an eccentric old Wise Woman (voice of Julie Walters) for help, she is granted an ill-fated wish. The ensuing peril forces Merida to discover the meaning of true bravery in order to undo a curse.
Here is how "Brave's" opening compares to other Pixar movies opening weekend numbers:
1. "Toy Story 3" - $110.31 million
2. "The Incredibles" - $70.47 million
3. "Finding Nemo" - $70.25 million
4. "Up" - $68.11 million
5. "Brave" - $66.74 million
6. "Cars 2" - $66.14 million
7. "WALL-E" - $63.09 million
8. "Monsters. Inc." - $62.58 million
9. "Cars" - $60.12 million
10. "Toy Story 2" - $47.39 million
11. "Ratatouille - $47.03 million
12. "A Bug's Life" - $33.26 million
13. "Toy Story" - $29.14 million
The movie features the story of Princess Merida (voice of Kelly Macdonald) confronting tradition, destiny and the fiercest of beasts. She is a skilled archer and impetuous daughter of King Fergus (voice of Billy Connolly) and Queen Elinor (voice of Emma Thompson). Determined to carve her own path in life, Merida defies an age-old custom of having suitors win her hand in competition. She unleashes chaos and fury in the kingdom and when she turns to an eccentric old Wise Woman (voice of Julie Walters) for help, she is granted an ill-fated wish. The ensuing peril forces Merida to discover the meaning of true bravery in order to undo a curse.
Here is how "Brave's" opening compares to other Pixar movies opening weekend numbers:
1. "Toy Story 3" - $110.31 million
2. "The Incredibles" - $70.47 million
3. "Finding Nemo" - $70.25 million
4. "Up" - $68.11 million
5. "Brave" - $66.74 million
6. "Cars 2" - $66.14 million
7. "WALL-E" - $63.09 million
8. "Monsters. Inc." - $62.58 million
9. "Cars" - $60.12 million
10. "Toy Story 2" - $47.39 million
11. "Ratatouille - $47.03 million
12. "A Bug's Life" - $33.26 million
13. "Toy Story" - $29.14 million
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| Buzz Lightyear with a Space Shuttle behind it in a NASA photo. |
Here's a quick look at what's happening in the World of Disney this week. For a complete list of what's happening check out out Ultimate Summer Guide and our Ultimate Fall/Holiday Guide:
JUNE 24-30 The annual Sounds Like Summer Concert Series at Epcot with Stayin’ Alive - A Tribute to the Bee Gees
JUNE27-29: Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger spin in Magic Kingdom closed.
JUNE 29: Disney releases the movie "People Like Us"
JUNE 30: The Disney Gallery in Disneyland opens a new exhibit on castles.
The Spirit of America Fife and Drum Corps is a colonial-era band that plays marching music at the American Adventure Pavilion at Epcot in Walt Disney World.
The four musicians and the standard-bearer play classics like "Yankee Doodle Dandy" and "God Bless America." It's a lot of fun to watch the band march out and interact with the audience as well.
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| © Steven Liebman |
Saturday, 23 June 2012
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| A conceptual drawing by Disney of Grizzly Gulch’s Big Grizzly Mountain Runaway Mine Cars. |
The wild west setting setting takes guests into a bustling western Gold Rush township where there are seven attractions: the Geyser Gulch area with water-based activities and sudden eruptions of Mother Geyser; the Grizzly Gulch Welcome Wagon Show; photo opportunities throughout the town; the big lucky gold nugget; the Disney friends – Mickey, Minnie, Chip and Dale – dressed in their new outfits, and Koda and Kenai, Disney’s grizzly bears; the Grizzly Gulch-inspired gifts from Bear Necessities; and the Lucky Nugget Saloon.
The Big Grizzly Mountain Runaway Mine Cars takes guests on a runaway adventure in a multidirectional terrain-style coaster.
According to Disney, the mine cars will dash forward, race backwards for one-third of the journey and make rapid turns due to the mischief of the resident grizzly bears; the terrain-style coaster will run through the entire themed area, including Big Grizzly Mountain, the town and Geyser Gulch; with multiple mine cars crisscrossing throughout Grizzly Gulch simultaneously.
"Hong Kong Disneyland is continually evolving and expanding. Last year, the opening of Toy Story Land successfully broadened the age range of Guests the Park appeals to. This summer, the Park will achieve yet another milestone with the opening of Grizzly Gulch," Andrew Kam, managing director of the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort said in a news release.
Thursday, 21 June 2012
Under YouGov's BrandIndex, Disney is fourth behind Android, iPhone and iPad.
According to the website, all 1,100+ brands in the YouGov BrandIndex brand universe were measured with the company’s buzz score, which asks respondents “If you've heard anything about the brand in the last two weeks, through advertising, news or word of mouth, was it positive or negative?” All results were filtered for respondents who identified themselves as lesbian, gay, bi-sexual or transgender.
Among the other brands in the top 20 are Target, YouTube, Samsung, Apple, Ford, PBS, Netflix, Subway and Starbucks.
Hello Humans!
Ever wonder how Mike and Sully met before working together at "Monsters, Inc.?" Disney/Pixar has their back story - all set at "Monsters University."
Four newly released trailers gives us a peek into how the scare-tacular duo met in this prequel to the 2001 animated movie. Billy Crystal and John Goodman get behind the microphones again to reprise their roles as Mike and Sully.
The movie, due out in June 2013, looks how how the two fared during their days at the University of Fear, before becoming best buds.
The trailer starts off with the narration: "Since the very first bedtime, all around the world, children have known there were monsters hiding in their closets. But what they don't know is that those monsters weren't always so scary."
Could this be an "Animal House" for a younger generation with real, well animals and monsters?
The four trailers - which can be seen on the Monster University Facebook page are nearly identical. The big difference is the Billy Crystal improv as Mike mumbles different things in his sleep before Sully pulls a prank. You can vote on which is your favorite line.
Ever wonder how Mike and Sully met before working together at "Monsters, Inc.?" Disney/Pixar has their back story - all set at "Monsters University."
Four newly released trailers gives us a peek into how the scare-tacular duo met in this prequel to the 2001 animated movie. Billy Crystal and John Goodman get behind the microphones again to reprise their roles as Mike and Sully.
The movie, due out in June 2013, looks how how the two fared during their days at the University of Fear, before becoming best buds.
The trailer starts off with the narration: "Since the very first bedtime, all around the world, children have known there were monsters hiding in their closets. But what they don't know is that those monsters weren't always so scary."
Could this be an "Animal House" for a younger generation with real, well animals and monsters?
The four trailers - which can be seen on the Monster University Facebook page are nearly identical. The big difference is the Billy Crystal improv as Mike mumbles different things in his sleep before Sully pulls a prank. You can vote on which is your favorite line.
Tuesday, 19 June 2012
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| Walt Disney Studios |
This is the untold story of one of the Disney villain Maleficent from the 1959 classic "Sleeping Beauty." The film reveals the events that hardened her heart and drove her to curse the baby, Aurora.
Co-starring in the film are Sharlto Copley ("District 9"), Elle Fanning ("Super 8"), Sam Riley ("On the Road"), Imelda Staunton ("Vera Drake"), Miranda Richardson ("The Hours"), Juno Temple ("Atonement") and Lesley Manville ("Secrets & Lies").
The movie is the directorial debut of two-time Oscar-winning production designer Robert Stromberg ("Avatar," "Alice in Wonderland").
The movie is is scheduled for a March 14, 2014.
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| Disney press photo of The Magic Kingdom |
Here are the specifics:
- Magic Kingdom presents “Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky.” This fireworks, paying homage to the hopes and dreams of America’s forefathers, will light the skies at 9 p.m. on July 3 and July 4.
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios, presents Mulch, Sweat, and Shears performing the all-new “Rockin’ 4th of July Celebration.” These resident landscaper/rockers will take all on a musical road trip across America, highlight each region’s contribution to rock and roll - with fireworks. Showtime July 4 is 9:45 p.m.
- Epcot's “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” at World Showcase Lagoon will be enhanced with “The Heartbeat of Freedom,” an overture of traditional Americana themes displayed in a pyrotechnic and laser light event. The show is at 10 p.m. In addition, Epcot guests can hear the “Voices of Liberty 4th of July Concert” and meet with Benjamin Franklin, Betsy Ross and Disney characters adorned in patriotic dress at American Adventure.
Players will be able to continue Merida's journey to undo a curse before it's too late as well as go on new adventures through mythical Scotland. Players will go through the world to solve puzzles and uncover secrets.
“The exciting action-adventure gameplay that takes place in Brave: The Video Game expands the tale beyond the movie’s storyline, giving fans both a fun and engaging gaming experience,” Javier Ferreira, Senior Vice President of Publishing, Disney Interactive Media Group, said in a news release.
The video game - which retails for $49.99 for Wii, Xbox and PS3 and $29.99 for Nintendo DS and PCs - offers a variety of gameplay options, including single-player as Merida, co-op mode with a will o’ the wisp, and a special Bear mode. Several new opponents created exclusively for the game will challenge the player throughout the experience, culminating with an ultimate boss battle to complete the adventure.
MORE "BRAVE" NEWS
Monday, 18 June 2012
Here's a quick look at the week ahead in all things Disney, including Walt Disney World, Disneyland and other highlights.
For a complete list of things happening this summer, check out our Ultimate Summer Disney Guide. If you want to start planning for fall and the holidays, check out out Ultimate Fall/Holiday Guide.
Here's what's on tap this week:
JUNE 18: The Cars wing opens at the Disney Art of Animation Resort in Walt Disney World in Florida.
JUNE 18: Starting today, Disneyland Resort hotel guests will be able to advantage of Extra Magic Hours – early admission to either Disneyland park or Disney California Adventure park – every day of their stay (with valid theme park admission and active hotel room key card).
JUNE 18-23: The annual Sounds Like Summer Concert Series at Epcot in Disney World with Mike DelGuidice & Big Shot -- The Ultimate Billy Joel Show.
JUNE 22: Pixar's 13th animated film "Brave" is released. The movie is set in the mystical Scottish Highlands, where Merida is the princess of a kingdom ruled by King Fergus and Queen Elinor. An unruly daughter and an accomplished archer, Merida one day defies a sacred custom of the land and inadvertently brings turmoil to the kingdom. In an attempt to set things right, Merida seeks out an eccentric old Wise Woman and is granted an ill-fated wish. Also figuring into Merida’s quest — and serving as comic relief — are the kingdom’s three lords: the enormous Lord MacGuffin, the surly Lord Macintosh, and the disagreeable Lord Dingwall.
JUNE 24-30: The annual Sounds Like Summer Concert Series at Epcot with Stayin’ Alive -- A Tribute to the Bee Gees.
JUNE 18: The Cars wing opens at the Disney Art of Animation Resort in Walt Disney World in Florida.
JUNE 18: Starting today, Disneyland Resort hotel guests will be able to advantage of Extra Magic Hours – early admission to either Disneyland park or Disney California Adventure park – every day of their stay (with valid theme park admission and active hotel room key card).
JUNE 18-23: The annual Sounds Like Summer Concert Series at Epcot in Disney World with Mike DelGuidice & Big Shot -- The Ultimate Billy Joel Show.
JUNE 22: Pixar's 13th animated film "Brave" is released. The movie is set in the mystical Scottish Highlands, where Merida is the princess of a kingdom ruled by King Fergus and Queen Elinor. An unruly daughter and an accomplished archer, Merida one day defies a sacred custom of the land and inadvertently brings turmoil to the kingdom. In an attempt to set things right, Merida seeks out an eccentric old Wise Woman and is granted an ill-fated wish. Also figuring into Merida’s quest — and serving as comic relief — are the kingdom’s three lords: the enormous Lord MacGuffin, the surly Lord Macintosh, and the disagreeable Lord Dingwall.
JUNE 24-30: The annual Sounds Like Summer Concert Series at Epcot with Stayin’ Alive -- A Tribute to the Bee Gees.
Sunday, 17 June 2012
"Secret of the Wings," the fifth in the Disney Fairies direct-to-DVD series is scheduled to be released Oct. 23 on Blu-ray and DVD Combo Pack and Digital.
In this computer-animated film Tinker Bell goes into the Winter Woods and meets the frost fairy named Periwinkle where a secret is revealed.
The movies stars the voices of Mae Whitman, Lucy Liu, Megan Hilty, Raven-Symoné, Jesse McCartney and Angela Bartys, it also features new cast members who include Matt Lanter, Timothy Dalton, Lucy Hale, and Debby Ryan.
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| Disney publicity photo |
Two of the people suffered heart attacks, two had seizures, two had chest pains and three suffered broken bones, according to the website.
The rides where the injuries took place varied from the Prince Charming Regal Carousel at the Magic Kingdom to Kilimanjaro Safaris in Animal Kingdom and Mission: Space in Epcot.
Here's the complete list of injuries with the ages and specific rides.
Disney's groundbreaking short film "Paperman" will make its theatrical debut in front of the movie "Wreck-It Ralph," on November 2, according to the Walt Disney Animation Studios.
"Using a minimalist black-and-white style, the short follows the story of a lonely young man in mid-century New York City, whose destiny takes an unexpected turn after a chance meeting with a beautiful woman on his morning commute. Convinced the girl of his dreams is gone forever, he gets a second chance when he spots her in a skyscraper window across the avenue from his office. With only his heart, imagination and a stack of papers to get her attention, his efforts are no match for what fate has in store for him," according to a company news release.
"Paperman" is directed by John Kahrs and produced by Kristina Reed.
"Using a minimalist black-and-white style, the short follows the story of a lonely young man in mid-century New York City, whose destiny takes an unexpected turn after a chance meeting with a beautiful woman on his morning commute. Convinced the girl of his dreams is gone forever, he gets a second chance when he spots her in a skyscraper window across the avenue from his office. With only his heart, imagination and a stack of papers to get her attention, his efforts are no match for what fate has in store for him," according to a company news release.
"Paperman" is directed by John Kahrs and produced by Kristina Reed.
There is a hidden Mickey on the planet Mercury.
Yes, that's right on Mercury. The Messenger spacecraft, which is on a year-long science orbit of the first planet in our solar system, has captured a the hidden Mickey Mouse image on the planet, according to the NASA website.
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| Photo by NASA/Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory/Carnegie Institution of Washington |
"The scene above is northwest of the recently named crater Magritte, in Mercury's south. The image is not map projected; the larger crater actually sits to the north of the two smaller ones. The shadowing helps define the striking "Mickey Mouse" resemblance, created by the accumulation of craters over Mercury's long geologic history," according to NASA
Thursday, 14 June 2012
The Holidays are always my favorite time of the year to go to Disney World and we always stop to listen to the Candlelight Processional at Epcot.
Today Disney has announced the celebrity narrators who have confirmed. The processional combines seasonal music and reading of scripture by the narrators. It will be performed nightly from Nov. 23-Dec. 30 at 5 p.m., 6:45 p.mm. and 8:15 p.m.
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| © Steven Liebman The Candlelight Processional |
Here is the list:
Nov. 23–25: Geena Davis
Nov. 26–29: Neil Patrick Harris
Nov. 30–Dec. 1: Whoopi Goldberg
Dec. 2-4: Andy Garcia
Dec. 5-7: To be announced
Dec. 8-9: James Denton
Dec. 2-4: Andy Garcia
Dec. 5-7: To be announced
Dec. 8-9: James Denton
Dec. 11–13: Jodi Benson
Dec. 14–16: Olivia Newton John
Dec. 20–22: Trace Adkins
Dec. 23–25: Gary Sinise
Dec. 26-28: Amy Grant
Dec. 26-28: Amy Grant
Dec. 29–30: Marlee Matlin/Jack Jason
Wednesday, 13 June 2012
The Brampton Guardian newspaper in Canada may not have meant to put Winnie the Pooh in this light. Thanks to @ScottFilmCritic.
The Disney Trading, titled "Mickey's Circus" will be held this year in Epcot from Sept. 7 -9.
The annual event features three days of pin and Vinylmation trading. Approximately 26 pin items were designed specifically for this event, including boxed sets, individual pins and even some Passholder-exclusive items, according to the Disney Parks Blog.
In addition, 3-inch and 9-inch Vinylmation figurines designed by Disney Design Group artists Ron Cohee, Caley Hicks, Eric Caszatt and Monty Maldovan will also be available.
The first two days of the event ill be pin specific trading. The entire day on Sunday will be dedicated to Vinylmation.
The annual event features three days of pin and Vinylmation trading. Approximately 26 pin items were designed specifically for this event, including boxed sets, individual pins and even some Passholder-exclusive items, according to the Disney Parks Blog.In addition, 3-inch and 9-inch Vinylmation figurines designed by Disney Design Group artists Ron Cohee, Caley Hicks, Eric Caszatt and Monty Maldovan will also be available.
The first two days of the event ill be pin specific trading. The entire day on Sunday will be dedicated to Vinylmation.
Tuesday, 12 June 2012
The Disney Parks Blog is planning on giving everyone a look at Cars Land with a special grand opening Live Webcast.
After three years of construction at the California Adventure the 12-acre expansion takes guests through the town of Radiator Springs from the "Cars" movies.
The webcast will take place at 8 p.m. Pacific Time.
The entire park will be closed on June 14 in preparation for the big June 15 public opening.
When the park reopens guests will enter Disney California Adventure along Buena Vista Street, a place that transports them to 1920s Los Angeles when Walt Disney arrived in California. Buena Vista Street features Red Car Trolleys, inspired by the transportation system that once served Southern California, and the Carthay Circle Theatre, modeled after the site of the 1937 world premiere of “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.” Carthay Circle Theatre will include a lounge and the Carthay Circle Restaurant, designed to be the premier dining location in Disney California Adventure.
In Cars Land, the Radiator Springs Racers ride is a twisting, turning, high-speed adventure through Ornament Valley and the town of Radiator Springs. On Luigi’s Flying Tires you'll be able glide on air aboard special tires, whirling around with their pals. At Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree, you can whip around behind a baby tractor and enjoy tunes from a giant jukebox built from Mater’s most prized possessions.
In addition to the new sections of the park, a new Mad T Party in Hollywood Land is unveiled, is a dance party inspired by the wild and whimsical world of Tim Burton’s “Alice in Wonderland.”
After three years of construction at the California Adventure the 12-acre expansion takes guests through the town of Radiator Springs from the "Cars" movies.
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| © Disney Cars Land at the California Adventure in Disneyland. |
The entire park will be closed on June 14 in preparation for the big June 15 public opening.
When the park reopens guests will enter Disney California Adventure along Buena Vista Street, a place that transports them to 1920s Los Angeles when Walt Disney arrived in California. Buena Vista Street features Red Car Trolleys, inspired by the transportation system that once served Southern California, and the Carthay Circle Theatre, modeled after the site of the 1937 world premiere of “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.” Carthay Circle Theatre will include a lounge and the Carthay Circle Restaurant, designed to be the premier dining location in Disney California Adventure.
In Cars Land, the Radiator Springs Racers ride is a twisting, turning, high-speed adventure through Ornament Valley and the town of Radiator Springs. On Luigi’s Flying Tires you'll be able glide on air aboard special tires, whirling around with their pals. At Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree, you can whip around behind a baby tractor and enjoy tunes from a giant jukebox built from Mater’s most prized possessions.
In addition to the new sections of the park, a new Mad T Party in Hollywood Land is unveiled, is a dance party inspired by the wild and whimsical world of Tim Burton’s “Alice in Wonderland.”
If you want to get closer looks at what the new areas look like, here are some photo galleries from Disney:
- Buena Vista Street (overall)
- Cars Land (overall)
- Luigi’s Flying Tires
- Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree
- Radiator Springs Racers
- Disney California Adventure Park (overall)
- New Entertainment at Disney California Adventure Park
- Pixar Play Parade
- Mad T Party
- Dining at Disney California Adventure Park (overall)
- Carthay Circle Restaurant
- Cozy Cone Motel
- Flo’s V8 Café
- Disneyland Park
- Disneyland Resort Hotels
More than 1,000 couples a year tie the knot at the Disney World Resort, so chances are you'll be able to catch a glimpse of happy couple. Even the Walt Disney Marathon has had couples stop in the middle of the race in front of Cinderella Castle in the Magic Kingdom and say their vows.
All told, more than 40,000 couples have married at Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland and aboard Disney Cruise Line since Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings began in 1991, according to Disney.
The cost can be as low as $2,500 for bare bones to - well the skies (actually the stars) the limit,
From a Cinderella-like wedding in Magic Kingdom or a Hollywood extravaganza in Disney’s Hollywood Studios to international-themed nuptials at Epcot or a safari-themed reception at Disney’s Animal Kingdom anything is possible.
The wedding business is big for Disney, so big that in 2007 it launched its Honeymoon Registry and in 2010 created its own Wedding Blog.
Disney is launching a touring exhibit of Tim Burton's upcoming stop-motion animated movie "Frankenweenie."
The Art of Frankenweenie Exhibition will premiere in Barcelona, Spain, at CineEurope, June 18-21, and in the U.S. at Comic-Con 2012 in San Diego on July 11-15. In total, the tour will hit seven countries, including Spain, France, England, Japan, Mexico, Canada and the U.S.
The Art of Frankenweenie Exhibition will premiere in Barcelona, Spain, at CineEurope, June 18-21, and in the U.S. at Comic-Con 2012 in San Diego on July 11-15. In total, the tour will hit seven countries, including Spain, France, England, Japan, Mexico, Canada and the U.S.
The exhibit, according to a company news release, will give people a glimpse into the stop-motion animation process and includes original sketches drawn by Burton, as well as extensive props, sets and puppets.
The movie, which will be released Oct. 5, 2012, is a tale about a boy and his dog. After unexpectedly losing his beloved dog Sparky, young Victor harnesses the power of science to bring his best friend back to life—with just a few minor adjustments. He tries to hide his home-sewn creation, but when Sparky gets out, Victor's fellow students, teachers and the entire town all learn that getting a new "leash on life" can be monstrous.
Sunday, 10 June 2012
In the 18 years Disney has been producing Broadway shows it has won 11 Tony Awards and has received 35 nominations.Tonight it as a chance to add to those awards as two of its plays, "Newsies" and "Peter and The Starcatcher," are up for Tonys.
"Newsies," a musical based on the 1992 film of the same title (which did not do well in theaters but received a cult following) is inspired by the real-life Newsboys Strike of 1889 in New York City and has 8 nominations.
The musical, which ran at New Jersey's Paper Mill Playhouse in 2011 and premiered on Broadway in 2012, is up for:
- Best Musical
- Best Book of a Musical - Harvey Fierstein
- Best Original Score - Music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Jack Feldman
- Best performance by a leading actor in a leading role in a musical --Jeremy Jordan
- Best Director of a Musical - Jeff Calhoun
- Best Choreography - Christopher Gattelli
- Best Orchestrations Danny Troob
- Best Scenic Design of a Musica - Tobin Ost and Sven Oriel
"Peter and The Starcatcher," based on the best-selling novel by Dave Barry and Ridley Pierson which explores the origin of Peter Pan is up for 9 Tony Awards including:
- Best Play - Author Rick Elice
- Best Original Score - Music Wayne Barker and Lyrics Rick Elice
- Best performance by an actor in a featured role in a play - Christian Borle
- Best performance by an actress in a featured role in a play - Celia Keenan-Bolger
- Best direction of a play - Roger Rees and Alex Timbers
- Best scenic design of a play - Paloma Young
- Best lighting of a play - Jeffer Croiter
- Best Sound of a play - Darron L. West
Disney's previous nominees were "Beauty and The Beast," "The Lion King," "The Little Mermaid," Mary Poppins" and "Aida." The following won Tonys:
- "Beauty and The Beast" for Costume Designer, Ann Hould-Ward
- "The Lion King" for Best Musical of the Year; Choreographer, Garth Fagan; Costume Designer, Julie Taymor; Director (Musical) Julie Taymor; Lighting Director, Donald Holder; and Scenic Designer, Richard Hudson.
- "Mary Poppins" for Scenic Design (Musical), Bob Crowley
- "Aida" for Actress (Musical), Heather Headley; Light Designer, Natasha Katz; Original Musical Score, Music by Elton John and Lyrics by Tim Rice; Scenic Designer, Bob Crowley
Saturday, 9 June 2012
Parents love to surprise their kids with great gifts and experiences and one of their favorite fake-outs is the surprise family trip to Disney (either Land or World). Moms and dads hope to hear grateful shouts of joy and see children leaping into the air as if they had won the lottery.
Sometimes, the reaction is not exactly what they hope for. Here are a few surprising examples of how kids respond.
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| The "Iron Man" bracelet |
Remember the bracelet Tony Stark puts on so the Mark VII can find him in mid-air and suit him up after Loki throws him out the window? Well, you too can have that bracelet.
The limited edition Magtitan Neo Legend bracelet is a replica from the movie. It comes in three sizes for the price of (ouch) $189 for a small and $199 for medium or large. Well, Tony Stark is a billionaire after all. He can afford it. And for those who will ask, the Mark VII Iron Man suit is not included.
thwarting arch enemies at the top of their game, or for everyday casual and formal/business use.
Friday, 8 June 2012
You can now purchase 1-Day 1-Park, and 1-Day Park Hopper tickets using your smartphone, the Disney Parks Blog announced.
All people need to do is head to m.disneyland.com and select “Buy Tickets” from the home page. After entering the number of tickets (up to a maximum of 15), and your credit card information, "you will receive a confirmation with a barcode that will be scanned as you enter the park for which you’ve purchased your ticket. From there, you will be given a paper park ticket, which is still needed for park hopping or re-entry if you should leave the park and return later," the blog states.
For now only the 1-Day tickets are available. Soon they say they will expand to the 2-Day tickets.
Thursday, 7 June 2012
In about a week Disney will unveil the new Cars Land and Buena Vista Street areas. This ends a multi-million dollar five-year expansion of the California Adventure at Disneyland which also include new rides and new shows. Here's a fresh look at California Adventure:
280,000: Square feet of rockwork in Cars Land, making Ornament Valley mountain range the largest rockwork created in a domestic Disney theme park.
36,000: Approximate number of miles per year each Radiator Springs Racers vehicle will travel.
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| © Disney A view of Radiator Springs Racers ride in Cars Land. |
6,714: The number of air vets which keep t tires flying at Luigi’s Flying Tires attraction in Cars Land.
4,000: The tons of steel used to construct the Ornament Valley range and Radiator Springs Racers attraction in Cars Land.
4,000: The tons of steel used to construct the Ornament Valley range and Radiator Springs Racers attraction in Cars Land.
1937: The year “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” premiered at the original Carthay Circle Theatre, lending inspiration to the Carthay Circle Theatre icon now on Buena Vista Street.
1923: The year listed on embedded plaque at Storytellers statue at Disney California Adventure, reflecting the date when Walt Disney left Kansas City to embark on his new adventure in California and the year he founded his world-famous company.
779: The number of trees planted in Disney California Adventure during the five-year expansion.
1923: The year listed on embedded plaque at Storytellers statue at Disney California Adventure, reflecting the date when Walt Disney left Kansas City to embark on his new adventure in California and the year he founded his world-famous company.
779: The number of trees planted in Disney California Adventure during the five-year expansion.
715: The number of lighting fixtures illuminating Mad T Party.
525: The aapproximate length, in feet, of the Route 66 that runs through Cars Land.
200: The number of seats in the Carthay Circle Restaurant dining room, in addition to a 56-seat terrace and the 68-seat Carthay Circle Lounge.
125: The height in feet at the tallest peak of Ornament Valley range in Cars Land.
89.5: The height in feet of the Carthay Circle Theatre on Buena Vista Street, which is 12.5 feet taller than Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland.
45: The steepest degree of banking on the track of the thrilling Radiator Springs Racers attraction in Cars Land.
125: The height in feet at the tallest peak of Ornament Valley range in Cars Land.
89.5: The height in feet of the Carthay Circle Theatre on Buena Vista Street, which is 12.5 feet taller than Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland.
45: The steepest degree of banking on the track of the thrilling Radiator Springs Racers attraction in Cars Land.
16: The number of neon signs in Cars Land, with the Flo’s V8 Café sign standing tallest at 27 feet.
6: The number of car tail fins represented in the Ornament Valley range, inspired by classic car models from 1957 to 1962; hood ornaments, wheel wells and radiator caps also represented in the rock work.
Source: Walt Disney Company
6: The number of car tail fins represented in the Ornament Valley range, inspired by classic car models from 1957 to 1962; hood ornaments, wheel wells and radiator caps also represented in the rock work.
Source: Walt Disney Company
According to the Disney press release: "'Disney Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two' returns Mickey Mouse and Oswald the Lucky Rabbit to Wasteland, an alternate world filled with more than 80 years of forgotten Disney characters and theme park attractions. But for the first time, Mickey and Oswald will join forces as true partners - Mickey with the magical paint brush that allows him to wield paint and thinner, and Oswald with a powerful remote control that allows him to command electricity.
This new co-op play further enhances the idea that 'PlayStyle Matters' – a unique approach to gameplay pioneered by Warren Spector where players dynamically tackle different challenges in order to explore all possibilities and storylines, but with consequences for their chosen actions."
In November, the store will pay tribute to Disney with window displays featuring special twists to Disney Princess dresses by world class designers like Oscar de la Renta, Versace and Elie Saab, according to the company.
Each of the princesses will be featured: Ariel, Aurora (Sleeping Beauty), Belle, Cinderella, Jasmine, Mulan, Pocahontas, Rapunzel, Snow White and Tiana.
One of the 7,000 square foot area on the Fourth Floor will house a Disney Princess pop-up boutique and a broad range of Disney products, including bespoke and limited-edition items.
Monday, 4 June 2012
B Hotels & Resorts will open a new resort in the Downtown Disney area in the fall of 2013, according to the company.
The B in Lake Buena Vista is taking over the 394-room Royal Plaza resort. The hotel will remain operational during the renovation. It will be officially launched as part of the B Hotels & Resortsin the fourth quarter of 2013, according to the company.
View Larger Map
The B in Lake Buena Vista is taking over the 394-room Royal Plaza resort. The hotel will remain operational during the renovation. It will be officially launched as part of the B Hotels & Resortsin the fourth quarter of 2013, according to the company.
"The B in the Walt Disney World Resort is going to be a unique venue for visitors who are looking for an upscale lifestyle experience, tranquility and relaxation after and between fun-filled days at the adventure parks," CEO and President Ayelet Weinstein said in a news release. "It is being designed to allow interaction of families, couples, groups and individuals in an inspiring and stylish environment, with great amenities including international culinary concepts and a full service spa, while implementing the B brand approachable service culture."
View Larger Map
Sunday, 3 June 2012
Mother’s Day is easy: Flowers, jewelry, breakfast in bed. No sweat.
But Father’s Day? That’s much harder. For most men you can’t even fall back on the traditional necktie, because ties are nearly extinct in today’s workplace.
This year we’re here to help.
For “Avengers” fans
A lot of today’s dads are taking their kids to see “The Avengers” with absolute glee. After all, they’ve been reading the comic books since they were kids themselves.
Tell your dad he’s your hero with a Captain America T-shirt ($24.50 from the Disney Store).
Or, let him know he’s always with you by giving him a flash drive featuring Thor, the Hulk, Captain America or Iron Man ($11-$14 through Amazon.com).
If the dad in your life is a newly minted Avengers fan, he has a lot of catching up to do. Marvel Comics Presents 40 Years of The Avengers on DVD includes printable versions of complete issues of the comic spanning September 1963 through December 2005. At almost $400 from Amazon, you might have to break open your kid’s piggy bank for this one.
A little more affordable is The Avengers Omnibus, Vol. 1, a 744-page collection of early Avengers stories written by Stan Lee and illustrated by Jack Kirby and Don Heck ($63 from Amazon.com).
Or, if he’s an iPad user, you could give him an unlimited Marvel gift subscription. (If you haven’t tried the Marvel iPad app, it’s spectacular, letting you see complete pages or zoom in on individual panels). A year-long subscription costs about $60 and gives access to more than 10,000 new and “classic” titles, plus new issues available online first. (In addition to the Avengers, Marvel is the home of Spider-Man and the X-Men, among others.)
Where’s My Water ... and stuff?
And finally ...
I know I started out by snarking on one of the classic Father’s Day gift ideas. But if your dad still wears a tie to work -- and he’s fashion-forward enough to wear purple -- this silk Mickey Mouse tie ($34.95 from the Disney store) will add a bit of fun to his wardrobe, without leaving him open to too much abuse from his buttoned-down colleagues.
But Father’s Day? That’s much harder. For most men you can’t even fall back on the traditional necktie, because ties are nearly extinct in today’s workplace.
This year we’re here to help.
For “Avengers” fans
A lot of today’s dads are taking their kids to see “The Avengers” with absolute glee. After all, they’ve been reading the comic books since they were kids themselves. Tell your dad he’s your hero with a Captain America T-shirt ($24.50 from the Disney Store).
Or, let him know he’s always with you by giving him a flash drive featuring Thor, the Hulk, Captain America or Iron Man ($11-$14 through Amazon.com).
If the dad in your life is a newly minted Avengers fan, he has a lot of catching up to do. Marvel Comics Presents 40 Years of The Avengers on DVD includes printable versions of complete issues of the comic spanning September 1963 through December 2005. At almost $400 from Amazon, you might have to break open your kid’s piggy bank for this one.
A little more affordable is The Avengers Omnibus, Vol. 1, a 744-page collection of early Avengers stories written by Stan Lee and illustrated by Jack Kirby and Don Heck ($63 from Amazon.com).
Or, if he’s an iPad user, you could give him an unlimited Marvel gift subscription. (If you haven’t tried the Marvel iPad app, it’s spectacular, letting you see complete pages or zoom in on individual panels). A year-long subscription costs about $60 and gives access to more than 10,000 new and “classic” titles, plus new issues available online first. (In addition to the Avengers, Marvel is the home of Spider-Man and the X-Men, among others.)
Disney is just in time for Father’s Day with a new line of merchandise based on Swampy the Alligator of the Where’s My Water game.
For now, you can build a customized iPad case or iPhone case featuring Swampy ($49.95 or $39.95, respectively). Or, if he’s not afraid to show his Swampy Pride, you can get him a “See You Later, Alligator” t-shirt or one featuring the game’s rubber duckies ($24.50 at the Disney Store).
For now, you can build a customized iPad case or iPhone case featuring Swampy ($49.95 or $39.95, respectively). Or, if he’s not afraid to show his Swampy Pride, you can get him a “See You Later, Alligator” t-shirt or one featuring the game’s rubber duckies ($24.50 at the Disney Store).
But if gift ideas for dad always stump you, you might want to hold back on Where’s My Water products. By Christmas, there will be much more to choose from, with Disney planning to launch a new game and home accessories tied to the popular game this fall.
Disney Parks fans
More T-shirts ... these straight from the Disney Parks for men with discerning tastes.
Or perhaps he's a foodie -- one of those guys who puts a turkey leg higher on his to-do list than Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Make him hungry anytime with a t-shirt commemorating Dole Whips or turkey legs or churros ($21.95 each at the Disney Store online).
For the football fan
It’s only three months until the New York Giants and the Dallas Cowboys open the 2012 football season. If he’s counting the days, you might be able to combine his two passions -- football and Disney -- with a figurine of Mickey playing quarterback for his favorite team ($29.99 from Amazon.com). I couldn’t find all the NFL teams, but I did find some with rabid fanbases: the Giants, Cowboys, Bears, Steelers and Packers.
Disney Parks fans
More T-shirts ... these straight from the Disney Parks for men with discerning tastes.May 27 marked the 35th anniversary of the Space Mountain attraction in Tomorrowland at Disneyland, and the company is recognizing the milestone with a limited edition Space Mountain t-shirt ($24.95 at the Disney Store online).
Or perhaps he's a foodie -- one of those guys who puts a turkey leg higher on his to-do list than Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Make him hungry anytime with a t-shirt commemorating Dole Whips or turkey legs or churros ($21.95 each at the Disney Store online).
For the football fan
It’s only three months until the New York Giants and the Dallas Cowboys open the 2012 football season. If he’s counting the days, you might be able to combine his two passions -- football and Disney -- with a figurine of Mickey playing quarterback for his favorite team ($29.99 from Amazon.com). I couldn’t find all the NFL teams, but I did find some with rabid fanbases: the Giants, Cowboys, Bears, Steelers and Packers.
And finally ...
I know I started out by snarking on one of the classic Father’s Day gift ideas. But if your dad still wears a tie to work -- and he’s fashion-forward enough to wear purple -- this silk Mickey Mouse tie ($34.95 from the Disney store) will add a bit of fun to his wardrobe, without leaving him open to too much abuse from his buttoned-down colleagues.
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