Disney's Enchanted was a huge hit back in 2007 grossing $340 million worldwide. Now it appears as there could be a sequel in the works according to Collider. They even have a title for the film, here is what they heard:
"We’ve heard rumblings over the years of minimal movement on Enchanted 2, but now sources tell us that the project is seriously heating up over at the Mouse House. Anne Fletcher (The Proposal) remains attached to direct, and the studio is now in the process of punching up the script with the hopes that it will be in greenlight-ready shape very soon. What’s more, we know the current working title: Disenchanted."
Story details for the film are still under wraps and it isn't certain if any of the original cast will return for the sequel. Amy Adams ,who starred in the film as Princess Giselle, is reportedly enthusiastic about reprising her role in the sequel. The original also starred Patrick Dempsey, James Marsden, Susan Sarandon, and Idina Menzel. Stay tuned for details on "Disenchanted" as they come out.
The Walt Disney Company to Announce 4th Quarter Results November 5:
The Walt Disney Company announced they would release their fourth quarter results on November 5th. The executives will discuss the full year and fourth quarter financial results in a live audio webcast on Thursday, November 5th at 5:00 P.M. EST/ 2:00 P.M. PST. The financial results will be released approximated 45 minutes before the webcast. To listen to the webcast, you can go to www.disney.com/investors.
Listeners could hear news on Star Wars Land on both coasts and Toy Story Land for Disney's Hollywood Studios. Other theme park news could be released. Stay tuned for the 4th Quarter Fiscal Report from The Walt Disney Company.
Goodbye Downtown Disney, Hello Disney Springs. Today, Downtown Disney officially became Disney Springs with a new website www.disneysprings.com and a little ceremony to ring in the new name. It also has changed its Twitter handle to @DisneySprings.
The Disney Parks blog is quoted in saying "the timing couldn't be better." Last week, Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar opened in The Landing section of Disney Springs. Tomorrow, the new Morimoto Asia will be opening for guests.
Here is the new map for Disney Springs:
I am very excited to visit Disney Springs in the future. What does everybody think of the new and improved Disney Springs? How long will it take to remember that its not Downtown Disney anymore?
Four new Walt Disney World discounts are now available for guests booking a trip to the most magical place on Earth. The discounts are for this winter/early spring. The first is the "Play Stay Dine Offer" where a family of 4 can save up to $500 on a 6 day/5 night vacation with room, tickets, and Regular dining at select Moderate and Deluxe Walt Disney World Resorts. Guests staying at Value Resort can save up to $300 on room, tickets, and a Quick Service Dining Plan. The offer is for stays most nights from December 13-19, and stays from January 2 through March 7, 2016. Guests can now book this offer today September 28 through December 23.
Exclusions are: campsites, 3-bedroom villas, Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort, the villas at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Disney's Art of Animation - Little Mermaid Standard Rooms, the Bungalows at Disney's Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, Disney's All-Star Movies Resort, Disney's Port Orleans Resort - French Quarter, and Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside (December dates only).
The second offer is the "Early 2016 Room Offer" where guests can save up to 25% on rooms at select Walt Disney World Deluxe and Deluxe Villa hotels. Lower savings may be available for suites and rooms at other select resorts. This offer is available for booking for most nights January 2 - April 13, 2016. Guests must book this offer beginning today September 28 through December 23.
Exclusions are: 3-bedroom villas, campsites, the Villas at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Bungalows at Disney's Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort, and Disney's Art of Animation - Little Mermaid Standard View Rooms.
The third offer is the "Disney Junior Offer" that is specifically designed for families with small children. This offer includes savings and a Disney Junior Park Pack that will include goodies from: Disney Junior, Disney Publishing, Walt Disney Records, and GoGo Squeeze. Park Packs will be delivered to guests upon arrival and guests will receive one Park Pack per reservation.
This offer is available for most stays January 2 through April 13, 2016. Guests must book between now September 28 through December 23, 2015. Exclusions for this offer include: campsites and 3-bedroom villas.
The fourth and final offer is the "Magic Together Package" where guests can experience a 4 day/4 night room and tickets in a standard room at Disney's All-Star Music Resort for a family of 4 starting at just $1,822. This offer is for stays during select Sunday through Thursday nights with dates including: January 3-6, January 10-14, and January 18 through February 4, 2016. Other great rates are available at select Disney Resort hotels through April 13, 2016. Exclusions for this offer include: campsites and 3-bedroom villas.
On Friday, the 20th Epcot International Food & Wine Festival began. Now, guests visiting Epcot during the festival can have the gift of convenience and complete their experience with the Festival-themed wearable Disney Gift Card.
In addition to the many features a Disney Gift Card has, this gift card comes with a wearable wrist band for easy access to use at festival kiosks. It will be as easy activating your Disney Gift Card with as little as $15. Then you just swipe or scan to pay as you sample the delicious foods and beverages from throughout the festival. These gift cards are available all-throughout Epcot as well as all surrounding Disney World resorts including Disney's Boardwalk Inn, Disney's Yacht Club, Disney's Beach Club, and at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin hotels while supplies last.
Something new to this year's festival, a limited-release design card is available when guests load $200 onto the card. It will come with a Food & Wine festival-themed lanyard, medallion, and carrying sleeve. This will be only available with this card and will have limited availability.
It doesn't end there as guests can reload their gift cards even after the conclusion of the festival on property for use for practically all things Disney at Disney World and many other Disney destinations nationwide.
Seasons of the Force at Disney's Hollywood Studios to Begin January 8th:
Go look on Disney World's website and look at upcoming events. Here Disney reveals that Seasons of the Force at Disney's Hollywood Studios will begin January 8th and run through March 20, 2016. I'm sure more details will be released this week on Seasons of the Force at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Late last week, it was revealed that Seasons of the Force will begin November 16 at Disneyland.
Jedi Training Academy at DHS to End October 4th, New Show on the Way:
With last night's news on Disneyland that Seasons of the Force will begin November 16, speculation began on when Disney World's would begin. A new Jedi Training Academy show will be opening in December at Disneyland, called Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple. News broke this morning that the Jedi Training Academy at Disney's Hollywood Studios will be performing its last shows on October 4th.
The new version, 'Trials of the Temple', will debut later this year on both coasts. The new show will be a twist on the training academy with new characters and a new villain from the popular Disney XD series "Star Wars Rebels." The new villain should be The Inquisitor.
WDW News Today is reporting the new show should debut by Thanksgiving at Disney's Hollywood Studios.
First Look at Morimoto Asia Menu, Opening Next Week at Disney Springs:
The new Morimoto Asia restaurant in Disney Springs will be opening next Wednesday, September 30. Morimoto Asia is a pan-Asian dining experience, including open terraces, grand hall, private rooms, long bar, cocktail lounge, waterside seating, and more. Here is the menu:
Sony to Release Remastered Star Wars Soundtracks:
Sony will be released three remastered versions of the original six films of the Star Wars Saga. They will all be composed by John Williams and be released on January 8th, 2016.
Star Wars: The Ultimate Vinyl Collection - The six film soundtracks in deluxe gatefold sleeves faithfully replicating the original artwork
Star Wars: The Ultimate Soundtrack Edition - The six original soundtracks in mini-album jackets, plus a bonus CD featuring audio interviews with Harrison Ford and John Williams. Also included is the DVD Star Wars: A Musical Journey, a one-hour special highlighting select musical themes alongside key sequences from the films. Lastly, this set will include a fold-out poster and three collectible stickers.
Star Wars: The Ultimate Digital Collection - The set comes in a bundle of the original six soundtracks available for the first time ever as high-definition downloads.
News just broke out of Disneyland that Seasons of the Force at the park will begin November 16. Opening on November 16 at Disneyland, guest will be able to experience:
Star Wars Launch Bay: The new area will offer opportunities to visit with favorite Star Wars characters, special exhibits, peeks at the upcoming "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" and much more. Choose the light side or the dark side as the path of the force is your choice:
Dark Side - Encounter Darth Vader, one of Star Wars most iconic characters
Light Side - Check into the Rebel Base, and meet the most famous co-pilot in the galaxy, Chewbacca
Also explore the Dark and the Light in Themed Galleries:
Dark Side Gallery - Get a look at authentic pieces of stormtrooper armor as well as famous Sith lightsabers, once wielded by the masters of the Dark Side
Light Side Gallery - Explore a gallery filled with Rebel Flight helmets and lightsabers once wielded by Jedi Knights
Preview Gallery - See props from the upcoming "Star Wars: The Force Awakens"
Starship Gallery - Discover models of famous starships and their pilots from throughout the Star Wars Saga
Join the battle in the Star Wars Game Center where you'll be able to play the latest games from the Star Wars galaxy, including Disney Infinity 3.0 - featuring park-exclusive Toy Box levels.
Star Tours - The Adventure Continues: The popular attraction will feature a new scene inspired by the upcoming film, "Star Wars: The Force Awakens."
Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple: Coming in December, a twist on the Jedi Training experience will introduce new characters and a new villain from the popular Disney XD series "Star Wars Rebels."
Hyperspace Mountain: For a limited time, guests will be able to join an X-wing straighter battle in the reimagining of the Space Mountain attraction.
Other limited time opportunities will include an opportunity to visit your favorite scenes from classic Star Wars films in the Tomorrowland Theater along with special themed food and beverage, merchandise, and entertainment. Info on Seasons of the Force at Disney World's Hollywood Studios will be revealed soon, the Disney Parks Blog said.
Star Wars Land Construction to Begin January 11, 2016:
Along with the news on Seasons of the Force at Disneyland, word has broke out that construction will begin at Disneyland for Star Wars Land on January 11, 2016. With room being made for Star Wars Land, Big Thunder Ranch including Big Thunder Barbecue, Big Thunder Ranch Petting Farm, and Big Thunder Ranch Jamboree will permanently close on end of day January 10, 2016.
With the construction beginning the following attractions along Rivers of America and the Disneyland Railroad will be closed temporarily:
Disneyland Railroad, (all stations)
"Fantasmic!"
Mark Twain Riverboat and Sailing Ship Columbia
Pirate's Lair on Tom Sawyer Island
Davy Crockett Explorer Canoes
Follow along on It All Star With a Mouse as news breaks on the exciting expansions coming to Disney Parks on both coasts.
Today, Disney Interactive launched the mobile version of Disney Infinity 3.0 Toy Box app. It is free on all iOS, Android, and Amazon devices. The new app is the toy box with console-like graphics and functionality, tailored for mobile devices and tablets. Here is the description from the App Store:
Create your own universe in the Toy Box!
Great Characters. Great Adventures. JOIN FORCES.
Imagine a wide-open world of possibilities where all the characters, vehicles and settings you’ve collected can come together in whatever way you want them to. Create your own game universe where you can make anything happen. Mix, match and mash-up Star Wars™, MARVEL, Disney and Disney•Pixar characters together in one place!
ALL-NEW FEATURES: – NEW CHARACTERS – Toy Box 3.0 now welcomes Star Wars™ to the ever-growing collection of MARVEL, Disney and Disney•Pixar characters – including those from Toy Box 1.0 and 2.0! Put your imagination to play with over 80 characters to choose from! – 3D TOY BOX HUB – Introducing the all-new 3D Toy Box HUB which includes: Toy Box sharing, networked arcade, INteriors, platforming, combat, racing and farming simulation – IMPROVED CONTROLS – Play the game using classic controls or gestures
WEEKLY CHARACTERS Try 3 Characters for Free – They rotate often, so check back to explore new characters and play styles.
DAILY CHALLENGES Play in new Daily Challenges, a mini Play With Friends – Connect online to play and build Toy Boxes together!
TOY BOX 3.0 ANYWHERE Access your Toy Boxes from your iOS device, PC, and console. Continue right where you left off on any platform when logged into your Disney Account.
CHARACTER UNLOCKS Login to your Disney Account in the TOY BOX, TOY BOX 2.0 and TOY BOX 3.0 apps to unlock and carry forward your previous TOY BOX characters. Use web code cards from your physical Disney Infinity Figures to unlock characters in the Toy Box 3.0 app.
OPTIMIZED FOR METAL Full Metal optimization brings the graphics and game-play performance to near-console quality on Metal compatible iOS8 devices. **This game requires more than 2GB of disc space. **This game recommends iPhone 5 and above or iPad 2 and above.
Downtown Disney to Officially Become Disney Springs Next Week:
Well it's going to finally be official, as Walt Disney World will say goodbye to Downtown Disney next week as it officially becomes Disney Springs on Tuesday, September 29. Although construction won't be completed until sometime next year, the majority of work has been completed and the transformation of Downtown Disney into Disney Springs is finally here.
The expansion has included new retail outlets and more restaurants including the new Morimoto Asia restaurant opening next week as well. It also opened two new 6,000-space parking garages. The name change event will take place across from the newly opened Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar at 5 p.m.
Walt Disney World Saying Goodbye to Duffy:
Duffy the Disney Bear will no longer be greeting guests in Epcot, his last day will be October 3. He will be replaced by Daisy Duck in the current Duffy location after 5 years. The adjacent store from the meet & greet was stripped of Duffy merchandise and replaced with Star Wars and Marvel merchandise.
Duffy the Disney Bear debuted in 2010 on both coasts after unbridled success at Tokyo Disneyland. More experiences were planned, but never came about as sales of the plush never reached what Disney expected. Duffy is still expected to be sold in the parks and there are no plans at this time to retire the nightly bedtime story on Walt Disney World Resort TV.
Speed Across Jakku in New 360 Experience Exclusively for Facebook:
Today, on the "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" Facebook page an exclusive 360 experience was debuted. The video can only be seen on Google Chrome and Firefox as the 360 video experience doesn't work on Safari or Internet Explorer.
The experience lets you speed through Jakku as you wreckage from the Imperial Ship and the planet. Here is the link: 360 Degree Jakku Experience. Remember video can only be viewed on Google Chrome and Firefox.
Disney Parks Introduces "Unforgettable Happens Here":
We can say goodbye to the "Show Your Disney Side" marketing campaign, as Disney Parks is rolling out a new one this week called, "Unforgettable Happens Here." The purpose of the campaign is to say that just around every corner in Disney Parks and at any moment of any day magical and unforgettable things happen. They said, "Around every corner, at any second or minute of every day, there's a magical moment waiting to happen. Moments both big and little become stories that will be forever told and retold. And, never ever forgotten."
Disney rolled out two commercials with the campaign that you should see this week on their television channels: ABC, Disney Channel, and ESPN networks. Here they are:
Disney Vacation Club Confirms Wilderness Lodge Waterfront Cabins:
While it has been know for a while that the next expansion for the Disney Vacation Club would be waterfront cabins at Disney's Wilderness Lodge. Today, the Disney Vacation Club confirmed with The Orlando Sentinel that an expansion would be coming to the resort.
The plan is set for 26 waterfront cabins (much like the bungalows recently built at the Polynesian) has not set completion date. Although, it is expected that construction will begin next month. As part of the work the Hidden Springs Pool at Disney's Wilderness Lodge will close October 26, 2015 and remain closed until sometime in 2017.
Disneyland's Diamond Celebration Will Continue Through September 5, 2016:
Since May, Disneyland has been celebrating its 60th Anniversary in a Diamond Celebration. Well, Disney announced today that the celebration will continue through September 5, 2016. That means guests have lots of time to visit and experience the joys of the celebration.
They are encourage guests to come check out the new "Paint the Night" parade, "Disneyland Forever" fireworks, and "World of Color - Celebrate!" as well as special edition food and merchandise and even Sleeping Beauty castle has become diamond encrusted.
The Disneyland Resort 60th Diamond Celebration will dazzle now through September 5, 2016.
International Trailer for "The Good Dinosaur" Released:
We are just a few months away from Pixar's next expected big film in "The Good Dinosaur" due out on Thanksgiving Day. Today, the International trailer was released and for the first time ever we finally hear the dinosaurs talk including, Arlo. Here is the trailer:
Full Menu for Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar at Disney Springs:
Tomorrow, is the big opening day for Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar, the Indiana Jones-themed bar, at Disney Springs. The bar will open tomorrow at 11:30 am and no reservations are being taken at this time. Here is the full menu:
Appetizers:
Good Dates - Goat Cheese-stuffed Dates served with Marcona Almonds and Pickled Vegetables...safe for the whole family! $8.99
Snack of Ra - African Salads and Dips with Injera and Naan Crisps designed to satisfy a well of souls $11.99
Tani's Tacos - A Lost City Specialty! Filled with Falafel, Shredded Lettuce, and Cucumber-Tomato Salad $9.49
Brody's Brats - Grilled Bratwurst served with Mustard and Pickled Cabbage. Worthy of a museum $9.49
"Squid! Why'd it have to be Squid?" - Fried Calamari Flatbread with Harissa Spread $14.99
Rolling Boulders Sliders - Three Spicy Meatball Sliders served with Yogurt Sauce $9.99
Air Pirate's Pretzels - A flight of Everything Pretzels with House-made Mustard and Beer-Cheese Fondue $8.99
Dr. Elsa's She-Devilled Eggs - No father or son can resist these Beet Juice-brined Eggs stuffed with Lump Crab $7.99
Lao Che's Revenge - Spicy Asian Sticky Wings direct from Club Obi Wan $12.99
Signature Libations (Non-Alcoholic):
Antidote - Sprite and Maraschino Cherry Juice
Poisonless Dart - Soda Water with Mint, Simple Syrup, and fresh Lime Juice
Teddy's Tea (Non-Alcoholic) - Green Tea with Mint and Tangerine
Diving Bell (Non-Alcoholic) - Simply Lemonade and Watermelon topped with a Lemon-Lime foam
Signature Libations (Alcoholic):
Anything Goes - byejoe dragon fire spirit, fresh Lime Juice, Passion Fruit, and Pineapple Juice
Bedtime Story - Absolut Mandrin Vodka, Domaine de Canton Ginger Liqueur, Hibiscus Syrup, fresh Lemon Juice, and Iced Tea
German Mechanic - Bavarian Radler a.k.a. "Shandy" with Paulaner Hefe-Weizen and Simply Lemonade
The Bitter Barkeep - Barsol Quebranta Pisco, Simple Syrup, and fresh Lime Juice. Contains Pasteurized Egg Whites
Safari Sangria - South African Red Wine with Van Der Rum Tangerine Liqueur
Pancho's Margarita - Don Julio Reposado Tequila, Grand Marnier, and fresh Sweet-and-Sour
Bam's Barnstormer - byejoe dragon fire spirit, fresh Lime Juice, Passion Fruit, and Pineapple Juice
Fountain of Youth - St. Augustine Florida Cane Vodka, Bols Blue Curaçao, White Cranberry Juice, and Sweet-and-Sour
The Scottish Professor - Monkey Shoulder Blended malt Scotch Whiskey, Hendrick's Gin, Pear Nectar, Simple Syrup, and fresh Lemon Juice
Hovito Mojito - Barson Quebranta Pisco, fresh Lime Juice, Mint, and Simple Syrup topped with Soda Water
Cool-headed Monkey - Starr African Rum, Van Der Hum Tangerine Liqueur, fresh Lime Juice, Watermelon, and Pineapple Juice
Air Pirate's Mule - Knob Creek Disney Select Single Barrel Reserve Bourbon and fresh Lime Juice topped with Fever-Tree Ginger Beer
Wrong Island! - Siesta Key Silver Rum, Tito's Handmade Vodka, Tamiami Gin, Tippler's Orange Liqueur, and Sweet-and-Sour with a splash of Coca-Cola®
Hail Marty - Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. Single Barrel Straight Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey bottled in Bond served with an Ice Sphere
Reggie's Revenge - Florida Cane 'Orlando Orange' Vodka, Midori Melon Liqueur, White Cranberry Juice, and fresh Lime Juice
Bottled Beer, Hard Cider, Draft Beers:
Boulevard Tank 7 Farmhouse Ale – Kansas City, MO Sierra Nevada Pale Ale - Chico, CA Cigar City Maduro Brown Ale - Tampa, FL Xingu Black Beer - Brazil St. Bernardus Abt 12 Abbey Ale - Belgium Florida Beer Devil's Triangle IPA - Cape Canaveral, FL Lagunitas IPA - Petaluna, CA Left Hand Milk Stout - Longmont, CO Angry Orchard Crisp Apple Cider - Cincinnati, OH Ace Pineapple Hard Cider - Sebastopol, CA Kingfisher Lager - India Paulaner Hefe-Weizen - Germany Sweetwater 420 Extra Pale Ale - Atlanta, GA Orlando Brewing I-4 IPA - Orlando, FL
Bubbles (Champagne):
Nicolas Feuillatte Brut Champagne, Épernay Nino Franco Rustico Prosecco di Valdobbiadene, Veneto
Wines:
White:
Selbach-Oster Riesling Kabinett, Mosel
Batasiolo Moscato D'Asti Bosc, Piedmont King Estate Pinot Gris, Oregon Bellingham Citrus Grove Chenin Blanc, South Africa Montes Limited Sauvignon Blanc, Leyda Valley Conundrum, California Casa Lapostolle Cuvée Alexandre Chardonnay, Casablanca Valley Jackson Estate Chardonnay, Santa Maria Valley Flowers Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast
Red and Rose:
Château Miraval Rosé, Provence Meiomi Pinot Noir, California Bodega Charcra Barda Pinot Noir, Patagonia Santa Ema Reserve Merlot, Maipo Valley Northstar Merlot, Columbia Valley De Torten Z Red Blend, Stellenbosch Jam Jar Sweet Shiraz, Western Cape Concha Y Toro Marques de Casa Concha Cabernet Sauvignon, Maipo Valley Robert Mondavi Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville, Napa Valley Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Artemis Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
Dessert Wines:
Innskillin Vidal Icewine, Niagara Peninsula Graham’s 20 yr Tawny Port, Portugal
Flights:
Aviator's Flight - ¾-oz pout of each Single Malt Scotch Whisky - The Macallan 12 yr Speyside, Highland Park 12 yr Orkney Islands, and Bowmore 12 yr Islay
Is Toy Story Midway Mania's Third Track Opening Earlier Than Expected?:
Originally, the third track for Toy Story Midway Mania at Hollywood Studios wasn't supposed to open until late 2016. Now according to WDWMagic, sources have told them the track could be completed as early as the end of this year. WDWMagic states that if true it would give the park a much needed capacity help for the busy holiday season.
While it may come as a shock that it would be completed this early is the 2016 completion date could hold true still with the expected re-route of the attraction of the entrance to the back of the building. This is all in preparation for the opening of Toy Story Land, that was announce at last month's D23 EXPO. No completion date for Toy Story Land has been announced, construction for the land is set to begin early next year.
Disney has not confirmed the earlier than expected completion of the third track just the originally announced completion of late 2016. Stay tuned for more details on the third track for Toy Story Mania as well as Toy Story Land.
Disney Parks Debuts New Merchandise for Halloween Parties on Both Coasts:
Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Disney World began earlier this week and Mickey's Halloween Party at Disneyland begins next week. Disney Parks and the Disney Parks Blog have debuted new merchandise for parties on both coasts. What's in store for special commemorative items this year, you ask? To start off t-shirts both long and short sleeved options for adults and children plus a ladies cut tee and fleece.
This year's shirts even have a glow-in-the-dark touch to them. Also, we can't forget the limited edition pins. At Disney World, a limited release logo pin and mystery set, several limited editions, a tiered box set as well as a framed set. At Disneyland, a limited edition booster set will be available, a Halloween Screams pin, an Annual Passholder Goofy pin, as well as a logo pin featuring a Mummified Pluto terrified of Vampire Mickey.
For Magic Band fans at Disney World, a limited edition of (4000) Magic Band will be available to guests in a decorative box for $29.95 (plus tax).
Here is where you can find the merchandise in both parks.
Magic Kingdom (Walt Disney World):
Emporium - Main Street, USA (apparel and Magic Bands)
Pixar Reveals New Interactive Poster for "The Good Dinosaur":
Today, Pixar revealed a new interactive poster for their next film, The Good Dinosaur. The film hits theaters this Thanksgiving, November 25, 2015. The tweet sent out to reveal the poster read, "A single moment can change everything."
Disneyland Debuts D-Tech on Demand on D Street:
Today, much like the location in Disney World, Disneyland debuted its own D-Tech on Demand at D Street in the Downtown Disney District. Here guests will be able to create their own personalized electronic accessory case. The new location will debut 10 new designs including art designs of the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration and selections from the WonderGround Gallery artists like Jasmine Becket-Griffith, Jerod Maruyama, and many other artists.
The store will offer cases for the following phones: iPhone 4/4S, iPhone 5/5S, iPhone 5c, iPhone 6/6+, Samsung Galaxy SIII, Samsung Galaxy 4, Samsung Galaxy 5, and Samsung Galaxy 6. The whole process from start to finish takes about 10-15 minutes, with some art even allowing guests with enough room to personalize the case with their name.
Kevin-Michael Lezotte, Merchandiser II, had this to say on the opening and the process, "We continue to make updates both in art selection and the process. We've watched our fans interact and listened to what they have to say. Now you'll find an easier, faster, and more user-intuitive process. We're really excited to finally be able to roll this out to our west coast fans who have been waiting so patiently for it's arrival. It's such a great opportunity for our fans to find rare Disney characters and even casual art. What's Next? You'll have to wait and see. But several of the art styles that will debut in the near future, are quite episodic and are out of this world."
Director Brad Bird Gives Scoop on "The Incredibles 2":
Last month, at the D23 EXPO, Pixar revealed at it animation booth that they are finally working on the sequel to "The Incredibles." No release date has been announced but, Collider got the scoop from director Brad Bird on the upcoming sequel. He began writing the script earlier this year and had this to say about where he's at: "I have the story arc. I'm probably three-quarters through the script, first pass through the script, but we're already boarding parts of it. I've got a lot of people that worked on the first one working on it, so we're all having a good time with it."
He then added this on what fans can expect from the sequel. He had no plot details but added that there are a lot more superhero films now that there were when "The Incredibles" was released in 2004. He said: "But what's changed is there were only two other superhero franchises at the time Incredibles came out. One of them was X-Men and the other was Spider-Man, and now there are 400 billion of them and there's a new superhero movie every two weeks. What you don't want to do is trot over the same turf in the same way everyone else is. So we're trying to keep it focused in the area that our film was, which was a little bit more about characters and relationships and stuff like that, and see where that takes us. But we're having a good time."
Although it wasn't much, I am very excited about the sequel to "The Incredibles." This is one sequel I am hoping I won't be disappointed with. Are you as excited about "The Incredibles 2"?
Merry & Bright Dessert Party
Guests will be able to treat themselves to decadent desserts and drinks as they enjoy the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights for one last time this year with reservations for the Merry & Bright Dessert Party. The reservations can be made for select nights between November 6 to December 24, excluding November 17, December 9, and December 18, from 7 p.m.- 8:30 p.m. The party will also be available from December 25 - December 30 from 8:30 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Tickets are $69 for adults and $39 for children ages 3-9, Tax and gratuity will be included. Guests will also receive a heart-warming keepsake in a custom roll-up stadium blanket. Reservations can be made now online or by calling 407-WDW-DINE.
Merry & Bright Dinner Reception
The fun doesn't stop there as guests can ring in the new year as they enjoy the Osborne Lights with the Merry & Bright Dinner Reception. This will be available for 3 nights only from January 1-3, 2016. Guest will be treated to a holiday-theme fare of shrimp, beef, and turkey served with wine, beer, and other specialty alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. To top it off, guests will receive a custom shadow box keepsake featuring their own Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights.
Disney is expecting this special 3-night event to sell out, so make your reservations early. Tickets will be $99 per adult and $54 for children (ages 3-9), tax an gratuity included. Reservations can be made online or by calling 407-WDW-DINE.
Disney Cruise Line Announces Summer 2016 Destinations:
The Disney Cruise Line announced some of the destinations its cruise ships would be touring in Summer 2016 for its cruise ships. Here they are:
Disney Magic
Iceland and Norway - Explore the Norwegian Fjords, Iceland, and Scotland
British Isles - England and Scotland
Mediterranean - Visit Naples, Rome, and Monte Carlo
Disney Wonder
Alaska - Cruise from mountainous shores to fjords fed by glaciers en route to discovering the fabulous frontiers of Alaska
Disney Dream
Bahamas - A Bahamian voyage for an enchanting trip to the tropics
Disney Fantasy
Eastern Caribbean - Experience enchantment with a stop at the British Virgin Island of Tortola
Just a few days we were all excited as Disney teased us with just a six second clip of their upcoming live-action film of their animated classic, "The Jungle Book." Today, we finally got to see the full teaser trailer and it did not disappoint. "The Jungle Book" is directed by Jon Favreau and is due out in theaters, April 15, 2016. The film stars newcomer Neel Sethi as Mowgli, Idris Elba as the voice of Shere Khan, Ben Kingsley voices Bagheera, Bill Murray as the voice of Baloo, Scarlett Johansson as the voice of Kaa, and Christopher Walken will voice King Louie. Also joining the all-star cast will be Lupita Nyong'o as the voice of Mowgli's fiercely protective mother wolf Raksha, and Giancarlo Esposito as the voice of the wolf pack's alpha male, Akela. The film seamlessly blends live-action with photorealistic CGI animals and environments, using up-to-the-minute technology and storytelling techniques to immerse audiences in an enchanting and lush world. Here is the trailer:
Today the Disney Parks Blog announced that Narcoossee's at Disney's Grand Floridian will begin offering a brunch on Sunday mornings beginning November 22. Reservations are now open for the brunch.
For a menu: to start things off with a specialty beverage such as Champagne, Mimosa, or the signature Bloody Mary for adults, and a smoothie for children. There will be a shared pastry basket for the table filled with house-made chocolate and traditional croissants, muffins, Danish, pecan sticky buns, Vermont cultured butter, and seasonal jams.
Guests will enjoy choices of an appetizer:
Onion Soup Graitnee
Shrimp and Grits
Seafood Charcuterie
Artisanal Cheese Selection
Romaine Salad
Entrees to choose from will be tradition brunch favorites with a "refined" twist:
Brioche French Toast
Lobster Eggs Benedict
Chicken and Waffles
Freshly Caught Seasonal Fish
Steak and Eggs
Much More
Guests will be able to complete their meal with a trio of desserts. Cost will be $61 for adults and $41 for children (ages 3-9). Reservations can be made beginning today by visiting DisneyWorld.com/DINE or by calling 407-WDW-DINE.
Miscellaneous Disney Parks News:
Pop Secret is now the official popcorn at Disney parks and the official sponsor of Fantasmic! at Walt Disney World's Hollywood Studios.
Soarin' in Epcot will close in January for 4-6 months as it prepares for its layover to Soarin' Around the World.
Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar to Open Next Week on 9/22:
Earlier this evening the Disney Springs (Downtown Disney) broke news that the Indiana Jones-themed bar, Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar is set to open next week. It will open on Tuesday, September 22. Jock's will be located in the former Pleasure Island area of the new Disney Spring's area called The Landing. Last month, we previewed the menu for Jock Lindsey's which can be viewed here.
Disney Working on New "Mary Poppins" Film:
Well, in a bit of surprising news today, Variety announced that Disney is the developmental stages with director Rob Marshall (Into the Woods) in making a new film on Disney's classic "Mary Poppins." John DeLuca and Marc Piatt, both of Into the Woods, will produce the film.
No word about Julie Andrews or Dick Van Dyke taking part in the film. The new film will take place 20 years after the first film and will take stories of Mary from P.L. Travers' children's books that will focus on Mary's continued adventures with the Banks family.
The original film grossed over $100 million in the box office and was a true hit. It won five Oscars that year including Andrews winning Best Actress. The news is certainly shocking after Disney tried previously back in the 1980's to make a sequel of the film, but nothing ever came of it until now.
Are you excited for a new "Mary Poppins" film? The news was first reported by Entertainment Weekly.
Holiday Details for Disneyland Released:
We are now just about two months away from all the holiday fun at Disney Parks returning. Today, the Disney Parks Blog announced details for the Disneyland Resort where holiday festivities begin November 13 and run through January 6. The big news is the "Believe.... In Holiday Magic" fireworks will not be presented instead a Holiday Version of the Disneyland Forever Fireworks will take its place.
"A Christmas Fantasy" parade will return to Disneyland and will show daily along with the new "Paint the Night" parade each night. At Disney California Adventure, "World of Color - Celebrate!" will continue throughout the holiday season along with "World of Color - Winter Dreams."
Santa Claus will greet guests in a new location this year in Disneyland in Critter Country and in Disney California Adventure he will greet guests at Elias & Co. on Buena Vista Street. Here are more of your returning holiday favorites at the Disneyland Resort:
Disneyland:
Jingle Cruise
"it's a small world" holiday
Haunted Mansion holiday
Disney California Adventure:
Disney !Viva Navidad!
Holiday decor in Cars Land, "a bug's land", and Buena Vista Street
Olaf's Snow Fest
Buena Vista Street Community Choir
Downtown Disney:
Olaf's Frozen Ice Rink
Is Star Wars Weekends Done at Walt Disney World?:
With more Star Wars coming to Disney Parks year round with Star Wars Land, a strong rumor is saying that Walt Disney World may shelve the annual event beginning next year. The rumor was first reported be WDW News Today. With Star Wars Launch Bay opening in December, (signs went up today) and Star Wars Seasons of the Force beginning on both coasts in January, it is with thought the Disney World will elect to end Star Wars Weekends.
It is expected however that Disney World will still celebrated seasonal offerings like the annual Star Wars Day on May the 4th. The annual celebrity appearances and shows though appear to not be returning anytime soon.
Another rumor has surfaced according WDW News today in the same article that Disney plans to retire all Disney characters dressed as Star Wars characters in all merchandise, logos, and meet & greet appearances. Here is what they said:
"The decision was made along the same lines of the retirement of Hyperspace Hoopla a few years back as Disney and Lucasfilm are “re-positioning the brand” leading into the new films. Basically, it’s an image perception concern with Lucasfilm and Disney looking for a more serious tone with the brand."
No confirmation from Disney on if any of this is actually true but like it was said earlier there has been a strong case that 2015 was the last year for Star Wars Weekends. Stay tuned for details on this rumor as it develops. 'Andy's Room' in the Works for Magic Kingdom?: A recent permit filed by Walt Disney World Resort shows a project called 'Andy's Room' for what looks like the former Tomorrowland Arcade area in the Magic Kingdom, according to The Inquisitr. We all know Andy as the main child character in the "Toy Story" franchise. This comes after last month's D23 EXPO announcement that a Toy Story Land would be built in Disney's Hollywood Studios.
If you look at the permit filed to the Orange County Comptroller, the area is very large at over 15,000 square feet. It appears to be located in the old Tomorrowland Arcade area that closed months ago. Here is the diagram of the area:
At the beginning of this year, Florida passed a new law that states people can't win more than 75 cents worth of prizes for each game played. This led to Disney closing the Tomorrowland Arcade and other arcades or simply just removing a number of games including claw machines and other ticket-spewing machines. There is also speculation that this could be an interactive queue for the Toy Story-themed attraction, Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin also in Tomorrowland.
Nothing is confirmed by Disney and this just remains a permit filed by the company at this time. Stay tuned to see what "Andy's Room" will be in the Magic Kingdom.
Star War Collector's Subscription Box Service Coming This Holiday:
Lucasfilm and Funko are joining forces to bring Star Wars fans even more excitement this holiday season. The two joined together to create a Star Wars collector's box subscription service that will be called Smuggler's Bounty. The first themed box will be released in November have exclusive Funko items from Star Wars: The Force Awakens in preparation for the film's release on December 18.
The box will be much like Marvel's Funko collector's box subscription will a new box will be released every two months. Future boxes will be tied in with different parts of the Star Wars universe. In the first box with 'The Force Awakens' theme will be two exclusive mystery Pop! Vinyls by Funko and an exclusive shirt of your size choice. Beyond that however Funko is not revealing what will be inside each box. They did say though that there will $50 worth of collectibles.
What will this cost Star Wars fans? Well, it depends on which subscription service you go with from Funko. You can go with the "Pirate Membership" where you choose which boxes you order for $25 plus shipping and taxes. There is also the "Boss Membership" which is a full-year membership for $150 plus shipping and taxes. With this one, fans will get an exclusive Star Wars-themed collectible gift on the anniversary of their annual subscription.
You have until November 12 to sign up for the first Smuggler's Bounty Box. Will you be signing up for Smuggler's Bounty?
Jungle Book Teaser, First Look to Be Released Monday:
Yesterday, Walt Disney Studios released a teaser of their upcoming live-action remake of their animated classic, "The Jungle Book." The teaser is in anticipation for the first look of the film that Disney said will be released tomorrow. The first look will be released first on Access Hollywood.
The film is scheduled to be released April 15, 2016. Here is the teaser:
Today, kicked off the year-long "Happily Ever After" celebration of Hong Kong Disneyland's 10th Anniversary. It was kicked off with Walt Disney Parks & Resorts Chairman Bob Chapek announced new entertainment and experiences to a new Fantasyland that will be based on our favorite Disney fairytales.
First, up will be an all-new stage show that will debut on November 17, 2015 in "Mickey and the Wondrous Book." The 25-minute show will be a concert-style stage show at Disney's Storybook Theater. The show will feature Disney fairytale classics such as "Jungle Book," "The Little Mermaid," "Tangled," "Brave," "Aladdin," "The Princess and the Frog," and "Frozen."
In December, it was announced that Fairy Tale Forest would be opening in Hong Kong Disneyland which will allow guests to walk through a living, winding storybook of their favorite Disney tales. Imagineers used creative landscaping, with whimsical passages that will feature miniature scenes from "Tangled," "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs," "Beauty and the Beast," "Cinderella," and "The Little Mermaid." Tinkerbell and her friends will also greet guests in their own area of Pixie Hollow in Fairy Tale Forest.
At night, guests will be amazed and dazzled with a new fireworks show called, "Disney in the Stars." The new enhanced fireworks show will feature cutting-edge technology, lighting effects, and video projection. The new street-to-sky display will feature fireworks and an all-new moving light projection show on Sleeping Beauty Castle.
I would like to wish Hong Kong Disneyland a Happy 10th Anniversary from It All Started With a Mouse.
For months we have been speculating that the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights would be ending at Disney's Hollywood Studios. With yesterday's news from Disney COO Tom Staggs that construction would begin next year in 2016 for both Star Wars Land and Toy Story Land. Today, the Disney Parks Blog confirmed that this the 20th year of the Osborne Lights would be the final year.
The Disney Parks Blog had this statement on the ending of the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights this morning:
"In order to prepare for some incredible experiences coming to the park, including the recently announced Toy Story Land and a Star Wars-themed land, we will not be able to present The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights in the future. Our heartfelt thanks go out to the family of Jennings Osborne for letting us share their family tradition year after year. And thank you to all of you for being part of the spectacle with us. Here’s to making more memories in this, the 20th and final year."
The Laughing Place reached out to the Osborne family and received a quote from Breezy Osborne (Jenning Osborne's daughter) who was the initial inspiration for the show. She said:
"My family and I are more than grateful for the opportunity and experiences that Disney World has given to us, and most of all, given to millions and millions of people around the world. My greatest childhood memory was able to live on for an additional 20 years and it was also able to be experienced by so many-something you can’t really put into words unless you’ve walked under that incredible glow. When the Arkansas Supreme Court ruled the lights on our home go dark, Disney came in and literally made magic happen. I wish there was a bigger phrase than Thank You as they allowed this magnitude of celebration be a part of their park for so long. I have a feeling the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights will be brighter than ever this year."
The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights wasn't the only closing announced for Hollywood Studios today. The final performance of Mulch, Sweat, and Shears will be October 10 after an 11-year run at the Studios.
Although, Disney has made no comment on the ending of the band.
Here are some of the photos I captured back in December 2013 when I first experienced the Osborne Family Lights.
