Movie Review: Disney's "Moana" is a Masterpiece from Disney Animation (Spoiler Free)

What can I say about "Moana" that has already been said, the film is a masterpiece from Walt Disney Animation. I was filled with joy last night as I finally got to see the film. Between the music and the storyline and the amazing characters, this film was amazing from start to finish. My favorite characters were Maui and Hei Hei, but our heroine, Moana (played by Auli'i Cravalho) is clearly the star of the film.

"Moana" gives us the lesson of following our hearts and that nothing is impossible. Moana follows her heart to the ocean, her true calling, despite her father's wishes against it. She chose her own path and in the end what was thought to be impossible was possible because she followed her heart. The story was perfect for the film and it played out perfectly just as Disney always makes its movies. No matter what the trouble the characters may find themselves in, they find their way to a better place. Walt Disney Animation gets even the little details in the movie right and that is why the film was so good. 

I can go on and on about Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson as Maui and how we the perfect demigod but I feel like many of you already feel the same way. Really, I want to tell everyone how funny Hei Hei the chicken was during this movie. Everyone can relate to Hei Hei, well at least I can, I mean he is awkward and kind of dumb, but he's actually very heroic and does have some wit to him. They were definitely my two favorite characters. 

Also, I'm just going to say that Lin-Manuel Miranda is a genius. The music that he wrote for the film was perfect. The songs have been stuck in my head all day as I sing along to "You're Welcome" and "We Know the Way." Is "You're Welcome" the next hit that takes the country and the world by storm, because I think it is. I was singing the song for days even before I saw the film. 

"Moana" is truly a masterpiece and should win many awards for how great the film is. If you haven't seen it yet, please go see it and enjoy it. Many have said how "Moana" is better than "Frozen" and I agree. 

First "Cars 3" Poster Revealed; New Highway in the Sky Dine-Around Coming Soon

First "Cars 3" Poster Revealed:

Last week, the very first teaser of Pixar's "Cars 3" was released showing Lightning McQueen, the veteran now, lagging behind and him flipping. The teaser ended with it saying, "From this moment, everything will change." The new poster released today takes on the same concept shows McQueen in midair of his crash. Could this be the end of the career of Lightning McQueen? Here is the poster:

"Cars 3" hits theaters June 16, 2017. 

New Highway in the Sky Dine-Around Coming Soon to Walt Disney World:

Beginning this Friday, December 2 a brand new dining experience is coming to the Walt Disney World. The new Highway in the Sky Dine-Around will allow guests to travel around on the monorail for an unparalleled dining journey to Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, and Disney's Contemporary Resort. 

The tour begins at The Wave... of American Flavors at Disney's Contemporary. Here you'll begin with a welcome cocktail. Then you will board the monorail and head over to Disney's Polynesian Village Resort to celebrate the Spirit of the South Pacific with island-inspired sips and appetizers. 

You will then head over to Disney's Grand Floridian for a sumptuous entree and meal with wine pairing at the award-winning Citricos. After dinner guests will enjoy wine and sample artisanal cheeses in the lavish lobby of the resort. Guests will finish the tour by heading back to Disney's Contemporary. Here guests will enjoy desserts, cordials, and coffee on a private patio where they will also enjoy a viewing of Wishes over Cinderella Castle. 

The dining experience will take place on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays beginning December 2. The Highway in the Sky Dine-Around will not be available December 23-31. Reservations are open today and it will cost $150/person, gratuity included and tax is not included. Valet Parking is included. For reservations, you can call 407-WDW-DINE.

Zootopia, Finding Dory, and More Nominated for Annie Awards; Rivers of Light Cast Member Preview

Zootopia, Finding Dory, and More Nominated for Annie Awards:

Today, the 44th Annie Award nominations were announced and Disney Pixar, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Disney Television Animation, and Marvel Studios received a total of 33 nominations combined. "Zootopia" led the group with 11 nominations. Other films to be nominated included "Finding Dory", "The Jungle Book", "Doctor Strange", and the recently released "Moana."

Six different Disney Television Animations shows were nominated 10 times those shows included: Star Wars Rebels, Gravity Falls, Milo Murphy's Law, and Disney Mickey Mouse. Here is a full list of nominations:

Finding Dory

-Best Animated Feature

-Character Animation in an Animated Feature Production: Character Development and Animation: Erick Oh; Characters: All characters

-Storyboarding in an Animated Feature Production

Moana
-Best Animated Feature

-Animated Effects in an Animated Production

-Character Design in an Animated Feature Production

-Storyboarding in an Animated Feature Production

-Voice Acting in an Animated Feature Production: Auli’i Cravalho as Moana

–Editorial in an Animated Feature Production

Zootopia

-Best Animated Feature

-Animated Effects in an Animated Production

-Character Animation in an Animated Feature Production: Animator Dave Hardin; Characters: Judy Hopps, Stu Hopps, Bonnie Hopps, Chief Bogo, and Nick Wilde

-Character Animation in an Animated Feature Production: Animator Chad Sellers; Characters: Mr. Big, Koslov, Judy Hopps, Nick Wylde, and Flash

-Character Design in an Animated Feature Production

-Directing in an Animated Feature Production

-Production Design in an Animated Feature Production

-Storyboarding in an Animated Feature Production

-Voice Acting in an Animated Feature Production: Jason Bateman as Nick Wylde

-Writing in an Animated Feature Production

–Editorial in an Animated Feature Production

Piper

-Best Animated Short Subject

BFG

-Animated Effects in a Live Action Production

Doctor Strange

-Animated Effects in a Live Action Production

The Jungle Book

-Character animation in a Live Action Production

-Character animation in a Live Action Production

Captain America: Civil War

-Character animation in a Live Action Production

Star Wars Rebels
-Editorial in an Animated Television/Broadcast Production

-Voice Acting in an Animated Television/Broadcast Production

-Music in an Animated Television/Broadcast Production

Gravity Falls

-Editorial in an Animated Television/Broadcast Production

-Writing in an Animated Television/Broadcast Production

Elena of Avalor

-Best Animated Television/Broadcast Production for Children

Milo Murphy’s Law

-Storyboarding in an Animated Television/Broadcast Production

Disney Mickey Mouse
-Storyboarding in an Animated Television/Broadcast Production

-Music in an Animated Television/Broadcast Production

-Editorial in an Animated Television/Broadcast Production

Winners will be announced during the ceremony of the Annie Awards on February 4, 2017.

Rivers of Light Cast Member Preview:

Picture Courtesy of Walt Disney Company

It actually happened, Rivers of Light actually had a preview to Animal Kingdom Cast Members last night. While I wish I was there to see it, it does appear that Rivers of Light still isn't ready for the public according to reviews of the show. Rivers of Light is a modern technological marvel but there were some technical issues that did occur last night. 

For example, the show had to be stopped 6 minutes into the the show after what was heard that two of the floats collided. The show did restart and had a complete run through. Guests felt that while the show and music were amazing, it did feel like there was no wow moment. 

I will leave out any of my own opinion until I see the show myself. I will end with this request from Disney. I plead with Imagineers and Disney that they do not release the new nighttime spectacular to the public until the show is absolutely perfect. We waited this long, we could wait until you (Disney) can make Rivers of Light absolutely perfect and truly what could be the best nighttime show in the parks. I hope they won't let me down on this one. 

"Moana" Tops Thanksgiving Weekend Box Office; Second Best Thanksgiving Opening Ever

"Moana" says "You're Welcome" to Disney as it topped the box office on it's opening weekend with an $81.1 million 5-day opening due to the Thanksgiving holiday. It was the second best Thanksgiving weekend opening, second only to Disney's hit film "Frozen" which made $93.6 million during it 5-day opening 3 years ago.

Additionally, the film took in $16.3 million overseas with a limited release internationally. The film builds on Disney's success this year, who has released 5 of the 10 year's highest grossing films, is the leader in terms of market share, and is poised to set a new record for annual grosses. Hits this year included: Zootopia, Captain America: Civil War, The Jungle Book, Finding Dory, Doctor Strange and now Moana. Disney still has one more huge hit that awaits the box office this year when "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" the first standalone film in the saga soars into theaters on December 16.

Disney's Distribution Chief Dave Hollis told Variety about Disney's success this year at the box office:

“We are working with the greatest brands and we’re doing big, broad storytelling that resonates domestically, but has the power to transcend borders and languages and cultures around the world."

Three thousand years ago, the greatest sailors in the world voyaged across the vast Pacific, discovering the many islands of Oceania. But then, for a millennium, their voyages stopped – and no one knows why.

From Walt Disney Animation Studios comes “Moana,” a sweeping, CG-animated feature film about an adventurous teenager who sails out on a daring mission to save her people. During her journey, Moana (voice of Auli’i Cravalho) meets the once-mighty demigod Maui (voice of Dwayne Johnson), who guides her in her quest to become a master wayfinder. Together, they sail across the open ocean on an action-packed voyage, encountering enormous monsters and impossible odds, and along the way, Moana fulfills the ancient quest of her ancestors and discovers the one thing she’s always sought: her own identity.  

 

 

'Rogue One' Tickets Go On Sale Monday; Tokyo Disneyland's 'it's a small world' Adding 40 Characters

'Rogue One' Tickets Go On Sale Monday:

We are just three weeks away from "Rogue One: A Star Wars" soaring into theaters. The Star Wars twitter account announced today that we are just 3 days away from tickets from going on sale Monday, November 28. 

Lord Vader, we've been expecting you. Tickets for #RogueOne: A Star Wars Story are available on Monday, November 28. pic.twitter.com/is1lIw9W4u

— Star Wars (@starwars) November 25, 2016

"Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" flies into theaters December 16, 2016.

Tokyo Disneyland's 'it's a small world' Adding 40 Characters:

When Tokyo Disneyland's 'it's a small world' goes under refurbishment in March 2017 it will get a major update by adding 40 Disney characters to the attraction including characters from Frozen. The ride is scheduled to be updated and completed by Spring 2018.

This will be the first major update to the attraction since it opened in 1983. The attraction was originally supposed to be knocked down and moved to a new space in the park as part of the Fantasyland expansion, those plans have since been cancelled. 

2017 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Expanding into August; Happy Thanksgiving

2017 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Expanding into August:

An events guide for Holidays Around the World at Epcot has the dates for next year's Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. For the first time ever the festival is going to begin in August. The dates for next year's festival will run from August 31 through November 13, 2017. This year's festival ran for a record 60 days and now next year's will be extended an extra 15 days.

What do you think of extending the Food & Wine Festival to even longer? I love the idea, it just means more food to be consumed. 

Happy Thanksgiving:

I would just like to wish you, all the readers, a very Happy Thanksgiving. I am so thankful to you all and hope you have had a great day with all your family and friends. - John

Rivers of Light Cast Member Previews to Begin Soon; New Amenities Coming to Wilderness Lodge

Rivers of Light Cast Member Previews to Begin Soon:

Is there a light at the end of the tunnel? Could Rivers of Light finally be ready to debut at Disney's Animal Kingdom? According to multiple news sources today, Rivers of Light is almost ready for public debut as Cast Members were told previews for them begin soon.

Previews which will only be for Cast Members at Disney's Animal Kingdom will be on the evenings of November 27 and 28. The cast members will not be allowed to take photos or video during the performances. 

I am taking this with a grain of salt as the new nighttime spectacular was set to debut back in April, but was delayed. An update was promised by the end of May but nothing ever was announced. A rumored debut during last week's Destination D: Amazing Adventures proved to be false. Disney has yet to make any confirmations on Rivers of Light debuting. One could only hope with Cast Member previews beginning next week, that Rivers of Light will be debuting very, very soon.

New Amenities Coming to Disney's Wilderness Lodge:

The Villas at Disney's Wilderness Lodge recently changed their name to the Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney's Wilderness Lodge as part of the Disney Vacation Club. The name change is to reflect the railroad theming and the storyline of the resort. Soon though even more changes will be coming for guests to enjoy.

The Hidden Springs Pool will be re-imagined as the new Boulder Ridge Cove that is scheduled to open Summer 2017. It will feature an expanded sun deck and a zero-depth entry pool in what appears to have been an abandoned rock quarry.  More from the Disney Parks Blog:

"Such rejuvenating transformations were common in the Pacific Northwest following the mid-20th-century fading of the Transcontinental Railroad, as locals turned rails into trails – repurposing everything from bridges and tunnels to cranes and quarries. A nearby “Boulder Ridge Railway and Mining Co.” water tower will be among the pool area’s landmark reminders of its pioneering past, while a vintage mine cart supports the mining theme with an affectionate nod to Disney history."

Even more changes are coming to the resort besides the pool area. A brand new bar & grill in the Geyser Point Bar & Grill, will be added in addition to the resorts quick service restaurant in Roaring Fork. The new bar & grill will be located in the heart of the new pool area, where members and guests will be able to grab a bite to eat by the resort's main pool area. There will be ample outdoor seating and architecture that looks right at home with Disney's Wilderness Lodge and the new Boulder Ridge Villas.

Hong Kong Disneyland Announces Plan for Multi-Year Expansion; New "Tiana's Riverboat Party & Parade Viewing" to Debut

Hong Kong Disneyland Announces Plan for Multi-Year Expansion:

Today, Hong Kong Disneyland announced a multi-year expansion that will begin in 2018 and be completed by 2023. The expansion will include new lands based off of "Moana", "Frozen", and Marvel. The expansion will cost $1.4 billion. Here is a rundown of what's coming in phases beginning in 2018:

• A transformed Castle and Hub area to showcase new daytime and nighttime spectaculars and entertainment experiences (2019)
• An all-new Frozen-themed land with two new attractions (a major E ticket and Oaken’s Enchanted Sleighs, similar to Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters at Disneyland Resort) where guests can experience the characters and stories from the beloved films in ways never before at a Disney park (2020)
• Dedicated Marvel themed area featuring exciting new Marvel attractions and entertainment from one of the most popular Super Hero franchises in history. New attractions will replace Autopia (2023) and Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters (2018)
• A new entertainment venue, Moana’s Village Festival in Adventureland, which will feature a lively stage show (2018) Credit: MouseInfo

“This proposed expansion brings the best of The Walt Disney Company to this wonderful tourist destination, giving guests an experience only Disney can deliver and infusing some of Disney’s most beloved characters and stories into this unique destination,” said Bob Chapek, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts.

The expansion includes for the first time a rebuilding of a Disney castle in Hong Kong Disneyland's Sleeping Beauty castle that will create a canvas for never before seen daytime and nighttime spectaculars. Entertainment experiences like the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique will also be added.

Are you excited about the new attractions and lands being built in Hong Kong? Do you think any of this will eventually be coming to Disney World? Let us know in the comments.

New "Tiana's Riverboat Party & Parade Viewing" to Debut:

Beginning next week, guests will be able to experience a new dessert and parade viewing party at the Magic Kingdom. "Tiana's Riverboat Party - Ice Cream Social & Parade Viewing" will debut on November 29 in a special event held on the Liberty Square Riverboat. Here are the details:

Treat your senses to a Liberty Square Riverboat “sundae fun-day” and reserved viewing of one of our grandest processions.

Make the most of your next visit to Magic Kingdom park, where Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen are throwing an unforgettable party… and you’re invited! The occasion begins on the dock as your royal hosts welcome you and your sweet tooth to an ice cream social, complete with ice cream and toppings, drinks, and sweet treats.

Then board the Liberty Square Riverboat and relax while enjoying the Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade—all from the comfort of your special viewing location!

After the parade, Tiana and Naveen will join you to continue the party as you all cruise around the Rivers of America, circling Tom Sawyer Island.

The event will cost $49 for adults and $29 for children ages 3-9 (tax included). To make reservations you can call (407)WDW-DINE (939-3463) or by visiting DisneyWorld.com/Dining. 

Introducing the Epcot International Festival of the Arts; First "Cars 3" Teaser Trailer Released

Introducing the Epcot International Festival of the Arts:

A brand new festival is coming to Epcot called the Epcot International Festival of the Arts in 2017. The arts festival will debut beginning January 13, 2017 and will run through February 20. It will be a trifecta of global masterpieces: combining visual, culinary, and performing arts for six colorful weekends.

Some of the art on hand will be from Disney historical artists in Mary Blair and Herb Ryman art of Epcot to more modern Disney artists in Joe Kaminski and Costa Alavezos. Guests will not only be surrounded by incredible visions, they will also be watching the creative process live. 

The inaugural year of the festival, which is a collaboration with Disney Theatrical, will bring an exciting new showcase of favorite music and Broadway to the American Gardens Theater. Over the six weeks, guests will enjoy different pairings of phenomenal Broadway talent in concert singing the award-winning music from Disney on Broadway.

Of course what is a festival without food. Guests will feast on creations that will look almost too good to eat, but they won't be able to resist the new Food Studios.

The Epcot International Festival of the Arts will run Friday through Monday's and will unveil brand new art each weekend. What does everyone think of the brand new festival coming to Epcot?

First "Cars 3" Teaser Trailer Released:

The very first teaser trailer for "Cars 3" was released today and Lightning McQueen fans everywhere just might be a tad bit devastated. In the teaser, we see the veteran McQueen lagging behind in a race when all of sudden everything changes. Check it out below:

From this moment, everything will change. Watch the #Cars3 teaser trailer now. pic.twitter.com/tMJCu7SWUX

— Disney (@Disney) November 21, 2016

Blindsided by a new generation of blazing-fast racers, the legendary Lightning McQueen (voice of Owen Wilson) is suddenly pushed out of the sport he loves. To get back in the game, he will need the help of an eager young race technician with her own plan to win, inspiration from the late Fabulous Hudson Hornet, and a few unexpected turns. Proving that #95 isn't through yet will test the heart of a champion on Piston Cup Racing's biggest stage!

"Cars 3" races into theaters Summer 2017 on June 16. 

More Details on Pandora - The World of Avatar from Destination D: Amazing Adventures

The panel on Pandora - The World of Avatar with James Cameron, Jon Landau, and Imagineer Joe Rohde just ended and the detail that has gone into this world is amazing. Here is what was shared during the panel.

Cameron and Rohde were in character for the panel making Pandora a real place and that the movie was a documentary. The world that is being built will be the Moara Valley in Pandora set 100 years after the movie has ended. The floating mountains that we have seen floating is caused by the magnetic force in the world called unobtanium. 

The entrance into Pandora will be called the Alpha Centauri Expeditions opening the world of Pandora to guests. The Na'vi people will be there to teach explorers and visitors about their culture and connecting them to the nature of Pandora. The world guests enter will have evidence of the human inhabitance and structures from the war on Pandora. 

Flight of Passage will allow guests to link up with Banshee bonding them in an almost virtual reality ride experience. The journey will take guests around the planet swooping and diving in a majestical flight through waterfalls, islands, and more. Guests will be wearing 3D goggles and as they straddle the seat for the ride Cameron said guests should hold on tight for the E-ticket attraction. It will be flying right of passage guided by the Na'vi so guests don't get eaten. It will provide a majestic and magical flight through Pandora.

They gave more details on both Wind Traders and the Santu'li Canteen. The Wind Traders travel the world to trade, keep language united, and to share news. At the Santu'li Canteen guests will enjoy food that is completely unique, "alien cuisine" as Rohde called it. The food will not be 3 feet long like the Na'vi eat it will adapt to portions that humans are use to Rohde also stated. 

They finally got into the bioluminescent plants the guests will be able to interact with just by touch. The world will light up just after sunset where it will reach the mountains to the forest right down to the paving that we walk on. It will be like walking on clouds of light. They then moved onto the Na'vi River Journey which sounds like it will be amazing at night. 

Rohde said it will be a "beautiful, lyrical, musical" attraction that is more relaxing then what guests will experience with Flight of Passage. In the ride guests will be greeted by the The Shaman of Songs, an amazing musical Na'vi that sings a song that makes the forest react to her with stunning lights and sounds. The forest has its own conscious that is called "Eywa" which is almost like a "biological internet." Attendees got a preview of the Shaman of Songs which was released to the public shortly after. Here it is:

It sounds like the Na'vi will not be wandering around the park like originally thought just in the attractions. Pandora sounds amazing including both attractions in the Flight of Passage and the Na'vi River Journey. I said two months ago when I got back Animal Kingdom at night was amazing without Pandora, but when it does open hands down I'm not sure anything will be able to compare to it. Pandora - The World of Avatar opens Summer 2017 at Disney's Animal Kingdom.

Major Announcements from First Panel with Bob Chapek at D23 Destination D: Amazing Adventures

We all expected major announcements this weekend and they started off early at D23 Destination D: Amazing Adventures with a panel with Walt Disney Parks & Resorts chairman Bob Chapek. The first announcement was that Pandora - The World of Avatar will open at Disney's Animal Kingdom in Summer 2017. I am sure we will get even more details on the new land tomorrow with James Cameron, Jon Landau, and Joe Rohde.

Chapek revealed that the scaffolding has recently been removed from the bridge that will connect Pandora with the rest of the park (by Tiffins) as seen above in the picture. The bridge will serve as an entrance to the base camp of Alpha Centauri Expeditions, the eco-tour group that is preparing Pandora for future explorers and adventure seekers. 

Also shared were three new concept images of inside the land for the Santu'li Canteen (a quick service restaurant inside Pandora), Windtraders (a store), and Pongu Pongu ( a bar with specialty drinks). 

Santu'li Canteen will be the main restaurant inside Pandora - The World of Avatar and will feature Na'vi art and cultural items.

Windtraders will be where travelers find Na'vi cultural items, toys, science kits, and so much more.

Finally, Pongu Pongu will be a specialty drink location that will have a design that is as eclectic as its Expat owner.

New Concept Art of Star Wars Land; "Episode 8" Scenes to be added to Star Tours:

While no new details were given on Star Wars Land coming to Disney's Hollywood Studios in the future. We did get our first look at a concept image of Star Wars Land at night. An X-wing soars into Star Wars Land as the new land lights up the night. Check it out below:

Also announced were scenes from "Episode 8" of  Star Wars will be added to Star Tours: The Adventure Continues next year at both Disney's Hollywood Studios and at Disneyland.

Other Hollywood Studios news that isn't Star Wars-related and its a big one is that Hollywood Studios's version of Tower of Terror will not be getting a Guardians of the Galaxy remake.

Big Transformations Coming to Epcot:

Big changes will be coming to Epcot in the future, no details however were announced. Chapek just said that Epcot, "will stay true to the original vision." The future changes will be more Disney, more relevant, timeless, and more family. He challenged the creative team to "dream big" on Epcot.

That's all from this morning opening panel at Destination D: Amazing Adventures. Stay tune throughout the weekend for more breaking news.

D23 Announces Lineup of Events for 2017; MagicBand 2 Debuts at Destination D

D23 Announces Lineup of Events for 2017:

Today D23, the Official Disney Fan Club, announced its lineup of events for 2017. Of course it will include the return of the 2017 D23 Expo, a celebration of the 35th Anniversary of Epcot, and so much more. Check out what's in store for 2017 for D23 members and fans:

SCREENINGS ON THE DISNEY STUDIO LOT AND AT WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT: Throughout the year, D23 will once again offer special screenings on both coasts of classic Disney favorites, including Tangled, Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl, and more. D23 will also screen The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh exclusively for members in Orlando. Just in time for back-to-school, D23 will celebrate Disney Afternoon favorites such as DuckTales, Gummi Bears, and Chip ’n Dale Rescue Rangers, holding a screening event on the Studio lot with special guests, picture spots, and more surprises. And D23 Members will be invited to the lot for a spook-tacular Halloween screening event that will include a special exhibit from the Walt Disney Archives.

THE OFFICIAL WALT DISNEY STUDIOS TOUR—PRESENTED BY D23: D23 Gold Member-exclusive tours of the historic Studio lot return, including a look inside the Walt Disney Archives and a tour of Walt Disney’s office suite. The 2.5-hour tours offer fans a unique perspective on historic moments from Disney films, television shows, and theme parks.

D23 BEHIND-THE-SCENES EXPERIENCES: In January, D23 will host the first of several behind-the-scenes events at unique Disney locations, featuring special guests and gifts tailored to each experience. Following a year where members explored the Ink & Paint Department on The Walt Disney Studios lot and took an after-hours tour of the Twilight Zone™ Tower of Terror at Walt Disney World Resort, there will be more surprises in store for members in 2017.

D23’S LUNCH WITH A DISNEY LEGEND: Beginning in February, D23 brings back these exclusive luncheons with Disney luminaries, where members will meet Disney Legends and hear their fascinating stories. The events return to both Walt Disney World Resort and The Walt Disney Studios, where members have already dined with Legends such as animator Glen Keane, Imagineering Ambassador Marty Sklar, and voice talent Kathryn Beaumont.

ADVANCE SCREENINGS: Members can expect a host of exclusive, advance screenings of what are sure to be some of 2017’s most popular releases from The Walt Disney Studios. This year, D23 Members saw previews of Zootopia, The Jungle Book, and Finding Dory in cities across the county, including Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, Dallas, Houston, Las Vegas, Philadelphia, Portland, and Seattle. Plus, D23 Members in Los Angeles attended the red carpet premieres of Moana and Pete’s Dragon. For those guests who don’t live in the cities where movies are screened, D23 Gold Members across the country will be selected at random to receive complimentary movie passes, which will be included in issues of Disney twenty-three,D23’s quarterly publication.

D23 DISNEY FANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION—EPCOT 35: D23 heads to the parks in honor of Epcot’s 35th anniversary. Epcot, originally announced as the Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow by Walt Disney in 1966, has continued to grow and evolve over the years. D23 Members can look forward to a treasure trove of video, illustrations, and photographs to complement a host of stories, both new and old, in honor of this landmark. Plus, D23 will hold a special member event at Walt Disney World Resort in honor of the anniversary.

SIGNATURE EVENTS: D23 will bring back foodie favorite Sip & Stroll during the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, and members on the West Coast will get to join the fun, as D23 debuts a new event in conjunction with Disneyland Resort’s culinary festivities. And after giving members a look inside the Walt Disney Birthplace in Chicago in 2016, D23 will return to the Windy City next year to see the tremendous progress made on the home’s restoration. Expect special holiday events on both the East and West Coasts to make the season bright.

MEMBER MIXERS AROUND THE COUNTRY: After mixing and mingling at complimentary gatherings in Seattle, Chicago, Bridgewater, N.J., and even at San Diego Comic-Con, D23 will bring more mixers to cities around the country in 2017.

D23 EXPO 2017: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event returns. It’s D23’s biggest event of the year, as all of Disney’s wonderful worlds come together once again July 14–16, 2017, at the Anaheim Convention Center for three magical days of once-in-a-lifetime live performances, star-studded presentations, exclusive collectibles, and more.

Dates, ticketing information, and more D23 events will be announced throughout the year. Full details on D23’s lineup of 2017 special events can be found on the Fan Club’s website at www.D23.com/events. All events and dates are subject to change.

MagicBand 2 Debuts at D23 Destination D: Amazing Adventures:

Today, during the preview event for D23 Destination D: Amazing Adventures, which begins tomorrow, the MagicBand 2 debuted. According to WDW News Today, the new version of the MagicBand will be mailed to Annual Passholders beginning next month. In January 2017, resort guests will begin receiving the new MagicBand 2 as well. Retail versions of the new MagicBand 2 will be released along with new accessories such as the new MagicBand 2 keychains.

The new MagicBand 2 as rumored does have a removable puck which can be removed with a screwdriver. Today, guests at Destination D: Amazing Adventures were the very first to receive the new MagicBand 2 that was specially made for the event. Check it out:

Photo Credit: WDW News Today

What do you think of the MagicBand 2? 

Tune in all weekend for news coming out of D23 Destination D: Amazing Adventures as I am sure this is just the beginning of a busy weekend.

FuelRod Kiosks Now at Disney World Resorts; Moana Meet & Greet Coming to Disney Parks

FuelRod Kiosks Now at Disney World Resorts:

FuelRod chargers have become very popular for guests visiting the parks at Walt Disney World. I can attest it was very useful on my last trip. Now they are being installed inside Walt Disney World Resorts beginning yesterday November 16. 

Right now, kiosks have only been installed Disney's All-Star Sports, Movies, and Music as well as Disney's Coronado Springs Resort. The FuelRod chargers cost $30 and come with a set of USB cables which are able to charge cell phones, tablets, and many other devices. The batteries can be either recharged or swapped out for another fully charged FuelRod at a kiosk. 

FuelRod kiosks beside the resorts are in all 4 parks as well as Disney Springs and ESPN Wide World of Sports. 

Moana Meet & Greet Coming to Disney Parks:

We are one week away from Disney's next animated hit to release into theaters in "Moana." Moana herself will now be meeting and greeting with guests at Disney Parks. She is already at Disney's Aulani in Hawaii earlier this week. Later this month she will arrive in both Disneyland and Walt Disney World. 

From Walt Disney Animation Studios, “Moana” is the story of an adventurous teenager who sails out on a daring mission to save her people. During her journey, Moana convinces the mighty demigod Maui to guide her in her quest to become a master wayfinder. Together, they sail across the open ocean on an action-packed voyage, encountering enormous monsters and impossible odds, and along the way, Moana fulfills the quest of her ancestors and discovers the one thing she’s always sought – her own identity.

Disney's "Moana" will be riding a wave into theaters next Wednesday, November 23.

Two New Posters for 'Rogue One' Released; Mickey's Birthday at Disney Parks

Two New Posters for "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" Released:

We are just one month away from the release of "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" and my excitement is over the moon. They have released two posters for the IMAX release as well as one from Dolby Cinema. Here is the one for the IMAX release:

Here is the one that Dolby Cinema released today:

Go Rogue when "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" hits theaters on December 16. 

Mickey's Birthday at Disney Parks:

Mickey Mouse's birthday is this Friday and while he's been out traveling around the world celebrating it, Disney Parks will join in on the celebration as well. Here is what will be going on at each of the parks. 

At Disneyland, guests can sing "Happy Birthday" to Mickey in a pre-parade moment before they enjoy "A Christmas Fantasy" Parade on Main Street, USA.

At Walt Disney World, guests can enjoy a special birthday-themed edition of the "Movie It! Shake It!, Dance & Play It!" Street Party. Special Commemorative buttons will also be available at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World. 

In Shanghai Disneyland, guests will celebrate the big guy's birthday along Mickey Avenue with a special Grand-Marshal pre-parade. In Hong Kong, guests will find commemorative stickers and pins along with be able to sharing a special moment with Mickey himself.

Finally in Disneyland Paris, the park will celebrate Mickey's birthday for three full days of celebration and surprises for the special event. Mickey, himself, will be celebrating on Main Street, USA just before the Disney Magic on Parade. Birthday cupcakes will be available at several locations throughout the park.

If you can't make it to any of the Disney Parks on Friday, tune into Good Morning America where Mickey's new music video, "What We Got," will debut which will highlight his trip around the world. 

Disney Sets Release Dates for Future Films; New Limited Time 4-Day Discounted "4 Park Magic Ticket" Introduced

Disney Sets Release Dates for Future Films:

Disney has just announced the release dates for several future films including the live-action "Mulan" and just recently announced "A Wrinkle in Time." The live-action "Mulan" which is the remake of Disney's animated classic will be released on November 2, 2018. "A Wrinkle in Time" which just announced that it had begun production will hit theaters April 6, 2018.

The two films already join a jam packed film year for Disney in 2018. These films include Marvel's Black Panther on 2/16, Wreck-It-Ralph 2 on 3/9, Avengers: Infinity War on 5/4, the Untitled Han Solo Standalone film on 5/25, The Incredibles 2 on 6/15, Ant-Man and the Wasp on 7/6, an Untitled Disney Live Action on 8/3, Gigantic on 11/21, and Mary Poppins Returns on 12/25. 

I know we are more than a year away on these films, but what film are you most excited about in 2018? I will say I can't wait for all of them. 

New Limited Time 4-Day Discounted "4 Park Magic Ticket" Introduced:

Walt Disney World today introduced a new limited time 4-day discounted ticket that will cost just $70 per day and will be valid through May 26, 2017. The ticket is called the "4 Park Magic Ticket" which gives guests admission to each of the four theme parks on four separate days. Here are the complete details:

The new 4 Park Magic Ticket is only $70 per day for a limited time and gives guests one admission to each of the four theme parks on four separate days starting today, Nov. 15, 2016-May 26, 2017.
The 4 Park Magic Ticket is valid for a total of four admissions to the Walt Disney World Theme Parks and can be used to enter each Theme Park only once. Tickets are valid for one day of admission to Magic Kingdom Park, one day of admission to Epcot, one day of admission to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park and one day of admission to Disney’s Hollywood Studios on four separate days and may not be used to enter the same Park more than once.
Guests must purchase the 4 Park Magic Ticket Nov. 15, 2016-March 5, 2017. Tickets must be used within 14 days of first use or by May 26, 2017, and the following block-out dates apply: Dec. 17, 2016 through Jan. 2, 2017 and April 10-21, 2017. Tickets are nonrefundable, nontransferable and exclude activities/events separately priced. Admission is subject to capacity closures and other restrictions.

This is a pretty good deal with a savings of almost $500 for the regular 4-day ticket with no park hopper. Will you be taking advantage of this limited time offer?

Disney Springs Black Friday Preview, "Beauty and the Beast" Trailer, and More

Disney Springs Black Friday and Saturday Preview:

Thanksgiving is next week and that means the holiday shopping season is fast upon us when Black Friday kicks it off. Disney Springs will open two hours earlier on both November 25 and 26, opening at 8 a.m. 

World of Disney and other familiar favorites will feature great deals while supplies last: a Vera Bradley “Midnight with Mickey” hipster bag for $24.99 at Marketplace Co-Op, Storm Trooper Action Figures for $14.99 at Star Wars Galactic Outpost, and a holiday wreath with lights for $16.99 at Disney’s Days of Christmas, just to name a few. 

If you’re waiting for the perfect time to buy tickets to see “La Nouba” by Cirque du Soleil, this could be it. Visit the Box Office on November 25 and purchase a ticket to the show – any category available – for just $39 plus tax. (Tickets can be used November 25, 2016 – December 16, 2017.)

Here is a full list of stores participating in the Black Friday weekend and some of the deals they will have:

American Threads – First 50 Guests receive a FREE Piko sweater with a purchase of $75 or more (one per Guest while supplies last). Plus, get $20 off every purchase of $100 or more. Offers only valid November 25, 2016.

APEX by Sunglasses Hut – Save 60% off original prices of select styles. Offer valid November 24 to November 28, 2016.

Arribas Brothers – Receive free domestic shipping on purchases. Offer only valid November 25, 2016.

Basin – Get one free bath bomb with any purchase over $50 and 3 free bath bombs on purchases over $100. Offers only valid November 25, 2016.

Chapel Hats – Save 20% off entire store. Offer only valid November 25, 2016.

Characters in Flight – Save $10 on tickets purchased before 10:00 AM (weather permitting).

Cirque du Soleil Boutique – Save 50% off already discounted merchandise and 25% off ornaments and gift wrap. Offer only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

Coca-Cola Store – Save 15% off purchases of $25-29.99; 20% off purchases of $30-34.99; 25% off purchases of $35 or more. Offer only valid November 25, 2016.

Columbia Sportswear – Save 25% on select styles and brands. Offer only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

Curl by Sammy Duvall – Save up to 40% off on select merchandise and gift-with- purchase items throughout the store.

Dino-Store at T-REX – Get $10 off purchases of $50 or more and a free Build-A-Bear Workshop cinch with purchase of DINO Experience Bundle from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Offers only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016. 

Edward Beiner – Save 25% off entire purchase. Not valid on Cartier and cannot be combined with any other offer. Offer only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

Happy Hound Kiosk – Receive a free Bow Wow magnet with every $20 purchase. Offer only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

havaianas – Save 30% off sale merchandise. Offer only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

House of Blues Gear Shop – Save 25% off regular price purchases before 1:00 PM and save $5 off $35 purchases. Offer only valid November 24 to November 25, 2016.

Filthy Rich Kiosk – Save 20% off all jewelry. Offer only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

Ghirardelli Chocolate and Ice Cream Shop – Between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, enjoy a free coffee with a $4.95 or more purchase. Plus, get a free Intense Dark Mango Bar with a $20 or more purchase or a free 100-count mini caramel bag and thermal bag with $60 or more purchase. Offers only valid November 25, 2016.

Kipling – Save 25% off select purchases. Offer only valid November 23 to November 27, 2016.

Fit2Run – First 10 Guests receive a free one-year membership to Club Fit2Run. Plus, enjoy special savings on select merchandise, including 50% off cold weather jackets and half zip ups and up to 70% off select sandals and running shoes. Offer only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

Johnny Was – Save 25% off merchandise in the entire store. 

Johnston & Murphy – Save on men’s fashion and accessories, including up to 33% on select shoe styles, 40% off lowest ticketed price sweaters and up to 50% on select outerwear. Plus, all briefcases are $199.99; all scarves are buy one, get one free and all shirts and pants are buy one, get one half off.

LACOSTE – Save 20% to 30% off select items throughout the store. Offer only valid November 25, 2016.

Levi’s – Save 40% off entire purchase. Offer only valid November 24 to November 28, 2016.

Lilly Pulitzer – Spend $75 and receive one pair of free earrings, spend $150 and receive a free necklace or spend $500 and receive a free jewelry box. Offer only valid November 24 to November 27, 2016.

LittleMissMatched – Get 50% off apparel and an additional 25% off clearance items. Offer only valid November 24 to November 27, 2016.

L’Occitance en Provence – Luxury travel set $18 (with $45 purchase). Plus, receive an “Ultimate Black Friday Gift” free with any $145 or more purchase. Offer only valid November 23 to November 27, 2016.

Lucky Brand – Save 40% off purchases (excludes “rare finds”). Offer only valid November 24 to November 27, 2016.

Luxury of Time by Diamonds International – Enjoy free battery changes for watches up to 30-meter water resistance and free jewelry cleaning. Plus, scope out deals on select pieces! Offers only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

MAC Cosmetics – Swing by Waterside park stage to see ballet performances in celebration of 2 new exclusive holiday kits: Nutcracker Sweet Plum Retro Matte Kit and Nutcracker Sweet Mineralize Kit (available while supplies last).

Melissa Shoes – Save 25% off all merchandise. Offer only valid November 25 to November 27, 2016.

Origins – Scoop up Origins Superstar Sets for $65 ($130 value) and Origins Superstar Minis for $25 ($90 value). Available while supplies last. Offers only valid November 20 to November 25, 2016.

Orlando Harley-Davidson – Stop by for great deals on select styles, including 30% off men’s styles and logo T-shirts for $49. Plus, get a $10 duffle bag with the purchase of 4 Orlando Harley-Davidson tees! Offer only valid November 20 to November 28, 2016.

Pandora Jewelry – Receive a free bangle with a $125 purchase. Limitations apply. Offer only valid while supplies last November 25 to November 27, 2016.

Pop Gallery – From 8:00 AM to noon, save 20% off all purchases over $150 and an additional 30 to 50% off select merchandise. Some exclusions apply. Offers only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

Rainforest Café Retail Village – Enjoy $10 off purchases of $50 or more. Offer only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

Savannah Bee Co. – Receive a free jar of Whipped Honey with Passion Fruit with every purchase! Plus, spend $35 or more and receive a free gift set.

Sephora – Look for $10 deals throughout the store and limited-edition gift sets (exclusive to Sephora) for $25. Offers only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

Shore – First 150 in-store Guests on November 25, 2016 will receive a secret savings percentage (between 10% and 30%) off their purchase. Plus, on November 25 and November 26, 2016, receive a free gift with a purchase of $300 or more.

Sound Lion – Save 15% off entire store. Offer only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

Sprinkles – Available for a limited time— the Black Velvet Cupcake—their deepest, darkest, most “chocolatey” cake topped with chocolate ganache. Offer only valid November 25 to November 27, 2016.

Sugarboo & Co. – Get 10% off purchases of $100-$199, 15% off purchases of $200-$299 and 20% off purchases $300 or more (discount applied to total purchase). Offers only valid November 25, 2016.

Sunglass Icon – Save 60% off original prices of select styles. Offer only valid November 24 to November 28, 2016.

Superdry – Buy 2 items, get 1 item free. Offer only valid November 25, 2016.

The Art of Shaving – Drop by for great deals on select kits! 

The LEGO® Store – Save up to 50% off while supplies last—offer valid only on November 25, 2016. Plus, get an exclusive snow globe with a $95 purchase—offer only valid November 25 to November 28, 2016.

Tommy Bahama – Limited time “Flip Side” offer: Receive a $50 award for every $150 you spend in store to use toward a future purchase. Offer only valid November 23 to November 28, 2016. Additional restrictions apply; see store for details.

TROPHY ROOM – Save 23% off select merchandise. Offer only valid November 25 to November 27, 2016.

TUMI – Save 25 to 40% off select collections. Offer only valid November 16 to November 27, 2016.

UGG – Save 30% off select women’s, men’s and kid’s styles. Offer only valid November 25 to November 27, 2016.

UNDER ARMOUR BRAND HOUSE – Get $25 off every $150 purchase until 11:00 AM—offer only valid November 25, 2016. Plus, get 25% select fleece jackets—offer only valid November 24 to November 28, 2016.

UNOde50 – Save 30% off all styles. Offer only valid November 25 to November 28, 2016.

Vince Camuto – Save 40% off entire purchase. Offer only valid November 26 to November 27, 2016.

United World Soccer – Save 50% off select jerseys.

Volcom – Save 40% off all Volcom brand merchandise. Offer only valid November 24 to November 25, 2016. 

All discounts and offers are subject to change without notice.

First "Beauty and the Beast" Trailer Released:

This morning on Good Morning America, the very first full trailer of "Beauty and the Beast" was released. Oh and will it bring up all your emotions of the animated classic. Emma Watson is the perfect Belle and just the little things that Disney does so perfectly. Here is the trailer:

Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” is a live-action re-telling of the studio’s animated classic which refashions the classic characters from the tale as old as time for a contemporary audience, staying true to the original music while updating the score with several new songs. “Beauty and the Beast” is the fantastic journey of Belle, a bright, beautiful and independent young woman who is taken prisoner by a beast in his castle. Despite her fears, she befriends the castle’s enchanted staff and learns to look beyond the Beast’s hideous exterior and realize the kind heart and soul of the true Prince within. The film stars: Emma Watson as Belle; Dan Stevens as the Beast; Luke Evans as Gaston, the handsome, but shallow villager who woos Belle; Oscar® winner Kevin Kline as Maurice, Belle’s eccentric, but lovable father; Josh Gad as Lefou, Gaston’s long-suffering aide-de-camp; Golden Globe® nominee Ewan McGregor as Lumiere, the candelabra; Oscar nominee Stanley Tucci as Maestro Cadenza, the harpsichord; Oscar nominee Ian McKellen as Cogsworth, the mantel clock; and two-time Academy Award® winner Emma Thompson as the teapot, Mrs. Potts.

The tale that is old as time in "Beauty and the Beast" will hit theaters March 17, 2017.

Anthony Mackie Announced as Final Narrator for Candlelight Processional:

"Avengers" star Anthony Mackie (Falcon) has been announced as the final narrator of Epcot's Candlelight Processional. He will be narrating on the dates of December 7-9. Here is the full list of narrators:

• Steven Curtis Chapman – November 25 to 27, 2016
• Neil Patrick Harris – November 28 to December 1, 2016
• Whoopi Goldberg – December 2 to 3, 2016
• Edward James Olmos – December 4 to 6, 2016
• Anthony Mackie – December 7 to 9, 2016
• Robby Benson – December 10 to 12, 2016
• Meredith Vieira – December 13 to 15, 2016
• Jim Caviezel – December 16 to 18, 2016
• Joe Morton – December 19 to 21, 2016
• Ming-Na Wen – December 22 to 24, 2016
• Jodi Benson – December 25 to 27, 2016
• Cal Ripken, Jr. – December 28 to 30, 2016

Epcot's Candlelight Processional begins next Friday, November 25 and will run through December 30, 2016. It is performed nightly three times a night at the American Gardens Theatre in the America Pavilion at Epcot.