2016 Year-in-Review from It All Started With a Mouse

2016 was certainly an exciting year in the world of Disney and Disney Parks. We saw Disney break records at the box office, Shanghai Disneyland opened, and so much more. Here is our year in review for 2016.

Magic Kingdom Celebrates 45 years, Shanghai Opens, and More From Disney Parks:

2016 was a crazy year in Disney Parks around the world. We saw Hollywood Studios become literally half the park it used to be when ground was officially broken for Star Wars Land and Toy Story Land. The same for Disneyland where we saw the closure of Rivers of America temporarily and many other parts of the park to prepare itself for the massive 14-acre expansion of the park.  We also saw many attractions and shows close in 2016 they included:

• Phineas & Ferb Meet & Greet (Hollywood Studios)
• Lightning McQueen & Mater Meet & Greet (Hollywood Studios)
• Habit Heroes and Innoventions West (Epcot)
• Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show (Hollywood Studios)
• Honey, I Shrunk the Kids Movie Set Adventure Play Area (Hollywood Studios)
• Mike & Sulley Meet & Greet (Hollywood Studios)
• Studio Catering Co. (Hollywood Studios)
• Dream Along with Mickey (Magic Kingdom)
• Shark Reef (Typhoon Lagoon)
• Main Street Electrical Parade (Magic Kingdom)

With those closures though we saw so many new shows and openings. We saw Soarin' 2.0 open as Soarin' Around the World, Frozen Ever After opened, Mickey's Royal Friendship Faire debuted, and we saw Animal Kingdom light the night with new nighttime experiences.

In June, we saw Bob Iger's pride and joy finally open in the Shanghai Disney Resort. Inside Shanghai Disneyland lie six themed lands, each one a unique experience, imagined and created especially for China: Adventure Isle, Fantasyland, Gardens of Imagination, Mickey Avenue, Tomorrowland and Treasure Cove. At the heart of the park is Enchanted Storybook Castle, the tallest, biggest and most interactive of all Disney castles the world over.

Over in Disneyland, some news broke the hearts of many fans as it was announced in July that the Hollywood Tower of Terror would close at Disney California Adventure. In it's place will be the brand new Guardians of the Galaxy - Mission BREAKOUT! The very first Marvel-themed ride in a Disney Park in the United States. Eventually a more expansive Marvel Land will be built over at Disney California Adventure. Guardians of the Galaxy - Mission BREAKOUT! will open in Summer 2017. 

Over in Tokyo Disneyland, an expansion was announced in a new "Finding Dory" attraction will be opening in 2017 along with a new parade during the day and at night. They also are getting a new "Big Hero 6" attraction, a Fantasyland expansion, and Soarin' which was announced back in April.

In October, Magic Kingdom celebrated its 45th Anniversary in which we saw special merchandise and so much more. Just days later Magic Kingdom and Walt Disney World would be closed for the day due to the effects of Hurricane Matthew hitting Florida. Thankfully, there was no lasting effects or damage to the parks.

November was a big month as Destination D was held at Disney's Contemporary Resort. Here it was revealed that Pandora: The World of Avatar would open at Disney's Animal Kingdom would open Summer 2017, MagicBand 2.0 was introduced, and possible the biggest news is that Epcot will be receiving some major updates and expansion over the next few years. 

Also in November, Hong Kong Disneyland announced a multi-year expansion. This expansion will include a brand new redesigned castle, a Frozen-themed land with two new attractions, a dedicated Marvel themed area, and Moana's Village Festival over in Adventureland in the park. 

Rivers of Light, Where Are You?:

Did you really think I was going leave one of the biggest stories of the year and one of the biggest mysteries? 2016 was supposed to be the year when Rivers of Light, the amazing nighttime spectacular, was set to debut at Disney's Animal Kingdom. It was set to debut back in April alas Disney had other ideas for the nighttime spectacular. Through sources it appears as one of the Lotus flowers had sunk causing the delay.

First, they said it was delayed and would have another update on the show by the end of May. In it's place came Jungle Book: Alive with Magic, which ran through the summer months. The music was amazing but the concept felt rushed considering what Rivers of Light was supposed to be. No update ever came. Many questions and rumors began swirling if Rivers of Light would open by the end of the year. 

Disney had another golden opportunity to debut Rivers of Light in November during D23's Destination D: Amazing Adventures. They were having an in-park gathering where guests of event would take part in something inside the parks. Alas, not even a word of Rivers of Light was mentioned at the event. No official debut of Rivers of Light has been announced.

However, Disney has run several Cast Member previews over the last few weeks as well as stating in a "What's Coming in 2017" press release that Rivers of Light will debut sometime in the new year. Disney is even releasing a soundtrack for the music from the nighttime spectacular along with music from the Tree of Life Awakenings when the show debuts. Here's to seeing Rivers of Light sometime in 2017.

Disney Dominates at the Box Office Making History in 2016:

2016 was a record breaking year for Walt Disney Studios at the box office by being the very first studios to cross over the $7 billion threshold in a calendar year. "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" pushed the studio into the history books after its debut in mid-December.

Disney had several films cross over the $1 billion mark at the box office which included Zootopia, Captain America: Civil War, and Finding Dory. The Jungle Book, the live-action remake of the animated classic, came very close to crossing the $1 billion mark at the box office making  $966 million. Other major contributors to Disney's history making year include more recent films like Walt Disney Animation Studios Moana and Marvel's Doctor Strange.

Here's hoping 2017 is another hit at the box office for Disney.

Thank You:

Finally, it was quite the year hear at It All Started With a Mouse. I would like to thank you, all the readers, who have supported me over the now almost two years of blogging. This year we have double our views since the blog started and that is all thanks to you. This year, I have had the pleasure of joining an amazing group of people in the MouseLife podcast crew. They have really broadened our horizons for the future. I can't wait to see what 2017 brings for both It All Started With a Mouse and the MouseLife. 

Happy New Year to all of you,

John

Disney Parks Unboxed: Top 10 Disney Parks Merchandise Coming in 2017

Today the great Steven Miller of the Disney Parks Blog unboxed some great merchandise coming to Disney Parks in 2017. From Alex & Ani to Epcot 35th Anniversary Merchandise to Limited Edition Merchandise, Miller today counted down the top 10 Disney Parks merchandise coming in 2017. Here is the video:



Of course this is just some of the amazing merchandise that will be released at Disney Parks in 2017. What item or items are you most looking forward to seeing inside Disney Parks?

Rivers of Light Soundtrack to be Released; New Year's Eve at Walt Disney World

Rivers of Light Soundtrack to be Released:

Rivers of Light has yet to debut at Disney's Animal Kingdom, but soon you will be able to enjoy the music from the nighttime spectacular at home. Sometime in early 2017, Disney will be releasing a soundtrack for the music of Rivers of Light and the Tree of Life Awakenings show at Walt Disney World. 

It seems though that the soundtrack will be released once Rivers of Light does eventually debut. Several test showings for the long-awaited nighttime spectacular have been shown but no official debut of the show has been announced. Disney has said that it will debut sometime in 2017, we are holding our breath as we await the debut of Rivers of Light.

New Year's Eve at Walt Disney World:

Will you be ringing in 2017 at Walt Disney World? We already know if you aren't the Disney Parks Blog will be hosting a Disney Parks live stream of the "Fantasy in the Sky" fireworks at Magic Kingdom on New Year's Eve. What else is happening at the Walt Disney World Resort on December 31? Check out this video to find out:

The live stream of the "Fantasy in the Sky" fireworks will begin at 11:45 on the Disney Parks Blog hosted by Mark Daniel.

2017 D23 Gold Member Gift a Tribute to Walt Disney's "Nine Old Men"

D23 Gold Members in 2016 were treated to a special gift from Walt's Office, in 2017 they will receive a gift that is a tribute to Walt Disney's "Nine Old Men." Here is the official release from D23:

“I am in no sense of the word a great artist, not even a great animator,” Walt Disney once said. “I have always had [people] working for me whose skills were greater than my own.” In celebration of Walt’s great animators, D23 presents its 2017 Gold Member Gift: Walt Disney’s “Nine Old Men.”Les Clark, Marc Davis, Ollie Johnston, Milt Kahl, Ward Kimball, Eric Larson, John Lounsbery, Wolfgang Reitherman, Frank Thomas; this core group of animators earned their nickname from none other than Walt himself. Though the “Nine Old Men” is in reference to President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s terming the U.S. Supreme Court justices, as in “nine old men, all too aged to recognize a new idea,” these animators were truly innovators—recognizing and putting into action new ideas, and bringing personalities to life through a craft that they helped create and continued to develop throughout their careers. The “Nine Old Men” are responsible for countless Disney characters, including Peter Pan (Milt Kahl), Maleficent (Marc Davis), and Jiminy Cricket (Ward Kimball).D23 worked with the Walt Disney Archives and Disney Animation Research Library to curate 23 artifacts that honor the careers and legacies of the “Nine Old Men.” Included in the array of treasures are a behind-the-scenes studio production report marking Disney’s entry into weekly television, including episodes spotlighting the animators, a pinback button saluting Eric Larson on his 50th anniversary at Disney, the distinctive program from the 1989 ceremony inducting the “Nine Old Men” as Disney Legends, and faithfully replicated animation drawings actually penciled by the iconic animators. The gift is housed in a beautiful keepsake, a book-like box, perfect for display or safekeeping on your Disney bookshelf.The gift, exclusively for D23 Gold Members, is available for Gold Members who join or renew from January 1 to December 31, 2017. For more information on membership, click here. Stay tuned––we’ll be taking a closer look at the wonderful work of these great animators in 2017.

 Will you be renewing or joining D23 to become a Gold Member to take advantage of this wonderful gift?

New Magic Kingdom Welcome Show to Debut; New Spring & Summer Offers at Walt Disney World Resort

New Magic Kingdom Welcome Show to Debut January 9:

Update 1:33 P.M EST:
Here is the official information from the Disney Parks Blog:

Beginning January 9, guests will be allowed to enter the Main Street, U.S.A. area of the park even earlier than the park’s scheduled opening time. This will allow guests time to savor the charm of Main Street, U.S.A., enjoy breakfast or a warm drink at the Main Street Bakery featuring Starbucks. Then promptly at opening, a new welcome show will officially open the park for the day on the Castle Forecourt Stage. A Royal Herald will appear to deliver a proclamation and welcome a few familiar characters to the stage, officially opening the park so “the magic can begin!”

Original Story:
The Welcome Show at the Magic Kingdom is moving away from the Main Street Train Station. Beginning January 9, guests will be treated to a new Welcome Show in front of Cinderella Castle. To allow guests more space as Main Street, USA will be open earlier than the rest of the park opening.

Guests will enter Main Street, USA before the show begins and be able to have access to shopping, photo opportunities, as well as some select dining options being available. While no official time has been announced, guests should be able to enter Main Street, USA approximately 30 minutes before the official opening of Magic Kingdom.

The will allow less congestion in front of the train station allowing a more fluid running of bag checks and entering into the park. Stay tuned for more information.

Source: Blog Mickey

New Spring & Summer Offers at Walt Disney World Resort Hotels:

Today, Walt Disney World announced new Spring and Summer offers at select resorts that guests can begin taking advantage of beginning today. Spring 2017 offer will be save up to 25% at participating Walt Disney World Resort hotels, plus receive an extra day when upgrading to a Magic Your Way package with a minimum 4-night stay. This offer is good for stays most nights from February 20-June 10, 2017. To take advantage of the offer guests can book by February 26 for stays February 20 - June 10 or by booking by March 30 for stays April 9 - June 10, 2017. 

Important Details

• The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited.
• Savings based on the non-discounted price for the same room.
• Additional per adult charges may apply if there are more than 2 adults per room at Disney Value, Moderate and Deluxe Resorts.
• Advance reservations required.
• Moderate and Deluxe suites may be available at a lesser discount.
• Upgrade to a room and ticket package with minimum 4-day Magic Your Way theme park tickets, and receive one more complimentary ticket day.
• Tickets and options must be used within 14 days of first use.

Offer Restrictions

• Offer excludes the following room types: 3-bedroom villas, Disney's Art of Animation Resort - The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms and Bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows.
• Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion
• Length of stay requirements may apply.

For guests visiting Walt Disney World in the Summer, guests can take advantage of a free quick service meal per person (ages 3 and over) for regular non-discounted 5-night/6-day room and theme park ticket packages at a Disney Value Resort. This offer is valid for most nights from May 30 through August 24, 2017. Guests must book by February 12, 2017 to take advantage of this offer. Here are the details and exclusions:

Important Details

• The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited.
• Tickets and options must be used within 14 days of first use.
• All Guests in the room must be on the same package.
• Advance reservations required.
• Minimum 3-night length of stay is required.
• Minimum 2-day Magic Your Way base ticket purchase is required.

Offer Restrictions

• Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion.
• Offer excludes campsites and Disney’s Art of Animation – The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms.
• Excludes alcoholic beverages and gratuities.
• Children ages 3 to 9 must choose from the children’s menu, if available.

To book by phone, call (407) 939-7728 to speak with a vacation planning expert or call your travel agent.

Carrie Fisher, Our Princess, Has Passed Away

Carrie Fisher, known for quick wit and her amazing personality, has become one with the force. Fisher passed away earlier today days after suffering a massive heart attack on a plane coming back from London to Los Angeles. Carrie Fisher, is most notable for the role of everyone's princess, Princess Leia in the Star Wars Saga. She was 60 and leaves behind her mother Debbie Reynolds and her daughter, Billie Lourd. 

“Carrie and I have been friends most of our adult lives. She was extremely smart; a talented actress, writer and comedienne with a very colorful personality that everyone loved. In Star Wars she was our great and powerful princess – feisty, wise and full of hope in a role that was more difficult than most people might think. My heart and prayers are with Billie, Debbie and all Carrie’s family, friends and fans. She will be missed by all.” – George Lucas

“Carrie holds such a special place in the hearts of everyone at Lucasfilm it is difficult to think of a world without her. She was Princess Leia to the world but a very special friend to all of us. She had an indomitable spirit, incredible wit, and a loving heart. Carrie also defined the female hero of our age over a generation ago. Her groundbreaking role as Princess Leia served as an inspiration of power and confidence for young girls everywhere. We will miss her dearly.” – Kathleen Kennedy, President, Lucasfilm

“Carrie Fisher was one-of-a-kind, a true character who shared her talent and her truth with us all with her trademark wit and irreverence. Millions fell in love with her as the indomitable Princess Leia; she will always have a special place in the hearts of Star Wars fans as well as all of us who were lucky enough to know her personally. She will be sorely missed, and we join millions of fans and friends around the world who mourn her loss today.” – Bob Iger, Chairman and CEO, The Walt Disney Company

"Carrie was one-of-a-kind.....brilliant, original. Funny and emotionally fearless. She lived her life bravely...My thoughts are with her daughter, Billie, her Mother Debbie, her brother Todd, and her many friends. We will all miss her." - Harrison Ford

There are no words for this loss. Carrie was the brightest light in every room she entered. I will miss her dearly. pic.twitter.com/GgIeYGeMt9

— Peter Mayhew (@TheWookieeRoars) December 27, 2016

I thought I had got what I wanted under the tree. I didn't. In spite of so many thoughts and prayers from so many. I am very, very sad.

— Anthony Daniels (@ADaniels3PO) December 27, 2016

no words #Devastated pic.twitter.com/R9Xo7IBKmh

— Mark Hamill (@HamillHimself) December 27, 2016

pic.twitter.com/RLiWEXU8Ob

— Bad Robot (@bad_robot) December 27, 2016 

Carrie was an incredible person. I feel lucky I got to know her, and heartbroken.

— Rian Johnson (@rianjohnson) December 27, 2016 

Carrie besides being an extraordinary actress was also a prolific writer. Her books included: Postcards from the Edge, Delusions of Grandma, Wishful Drinking, and recently released The Princess Diarist, which were based on diaries she wrote while filming: "Star Wars: A New Hope" in 1977. Fisher had been promoting the book in London when she was coming back home to Los Angeles. Carrie, our princess, will be deeply missed.

First Still from Disney Pixar's "Coco" Released; First TV Spot for "Beauty and the Beast"

First Still from Disney Pixar's "Coco" Released: 

Today, we got our first still release from next year's film in Disney Pixar's "Coco." The film chronicles the journey of Miguel, who dreams of becoming an accomplished musician like the celebrated Ernesto de la Cruz (voiced by Benjamin Bratt). When Miguel strums his idol's guitar he will set off a chain of events that are a mystery.  Here is the still:

In the still we see Miguel strumming on the guitar and what appears to be some bright orange flower petals scattering everywhere as he plays his idols' guitar. "Coco" is being directed by Lee Unkrich (Toy Story 3) and co-directed by Adrian Molina. The film is being produced by Darla K. Anderson. Disney Pixar's "Coco" and Miguel will be strumming into theaters on November 22, 2017. 

First Television Spot for "Beauty and the Beast" Airs:

We are just about 3 months away of maybe one of the most anticipated films of the year of the live-action remake of Disney's "Beauty of the Beast." The first tv spot aired during yesterday's Disney Parks Magical Christmas Celebration and again in the evening during the airing of the animated classic on ABC. 

It appears the tv spot is just a condensed version of the trailer but we are still in love with it. It does have one additional never before scene in it featuring Belle (played by Emma Watson). I can't wait to see this film when it hits theaters March 17, 2017. 

New Behind the Scenes Look at Pandora: The World of Avatar; Merry Christmas

New Behind the Scenes Look at Pandora: The World of Avatar:

During this morning's Disney Parks Magical Christmas Celebration, we got an extended and inside look at Pandora: The World of Avatar. In the clip in which Bob Iger himself opens the segment which included segments from Joe Rohde, Jon Landau, and James Cameron. In the clip we get an inside look once again at both the Na'vi River Journey and Flight of Passage. 

We also get a look at the beautiful floating mountains as well as the incredible bioluminescent plant life that will light up Pandora: The World of Avatar. Here are some images as well as the clip that was shown during the parade:

Pandora: The World of Avatar will be opening sometime in Summer 2017 at Disney's Animal Kingdom.

Merry Christmas:

I would just like to say to all of you the readers that I appreciate all of you for joining me on this journey and most of all a very Merry Christmas from my family to yours. Enjoy the time with your loved one and cherish every moment with them. Hug them tight if you can and just share the joys of the holiday season. Thank you to all of you.

Your Friend, 

John, It All Started With a Mouse

Disney Broadway Stars Announced for Festival of the Arts; New Disney ALEX AND ANI in 2017

Disney Broadway Stars Announced for Festival of the Arts:

The very first Epcot International Festival of the Arts begins in just a few weeks on January 13. Today, the Disney Broadway stars were announced for the weekend performances during the festival. In collaboration with Disney Theatrical Productions, each weekend guests will be treated to different pairings Broadway artists during each of the six weekends of the festival. Performances will be at the American Gardens Theatre where guests will enjoy favorite songs from Disney on Broadway's award winning shows. Here is the list of performers coming to Epcot:

Jan. 13-16 and 20-23: Ashley Brown and Josh Strickland performing songs from: Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Tarzan, Mary Poppins and The Little Mermaid.

Jan. 27-30 and Feb. 3-6: Kerry Butler and Kevin Massey performing songs from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Tarzan, Newsies and Aladdin.

Feb. 10-13 and 17-20: Kissy Simmons and Alton Fitzgerald White performing songs from Disney’s The Lion King, Aida, Aladdin and The Little Mermaid.

Performances will be at 5:30 pm, 6:45 pm, and 8 pm, Friday through Monday of each festival weekend. Future World Plaza will also be filled with a variety of other visual and live performances including Epcot Living Statues, performances by Central Florida high schools and acclaimed university and college talent appearing through a partnership with Disney Performing Arts. Plus, Epcot’s American Music Machine will also perform on the Future World Fountain Stage.

The festival runs Fridays through Mondays from Jan. 13 – Feb. 20.

New Disney ALEX AND ANI Designs for 2017:

A few weeks ago the Disney Parks Blog ran a poll about which new designs fans of the ALEX AND ANI would like to see in Disney in 2017. Today, the top 3 phrases for the "Words are Powerful" collection, which features Disney sayings and the attributes of favorite characters, on the very popular bracelets. The top 3 vote getters were:

• Make Your Own Path – Pocahontas
• Be Forever Brave – Merida
• Unlock the Magic – Jasmine

The fan-selected bangles will join the "Words are Powerful" collection at Disney Parks in 2017. The “Words Are Powerful” Color Infusion bangles will have a retail of $44.95 plus tax and will be available in both Shiny Gold and Shiny Silver Finishes. You will be able to purchase them on the SHOP Disney Parks App as well as the Disney Store online and these Disneyland and Walt Disney World locations:

Disneyland Resort

• Disney California Adventure park – Elias & Co.
• Disneyland park – Fortuosity Shop
• Downtown Disney District – Disney Vault 28 and World of Disney Store

Walt Disney World Resort

• Disney’s Animal Kingdom – Discovery Trading Company
• Disney’s Contemporary Resort – Bayview Gifts
• Disney’s Hollywood Studios – Keystone Clothiers
• Disney Springs – Tren-D, World of Disney Store, and ALEX AND ANI
• Epcot – Mouse Gear
• Magic Kingdom Park – Emporium

'Remember ... Dreams Come True' Fireworks Returning to Disneyland; Disney Removing Large Cups at Quick Service Restaurants

'Remember ... Dreams Come True' Fireworks Returning to Disneyland:

Many guests who have visited Disneyland will remember the 'Remember ... Dreams Come True' fireworks. The fireworks spectacular will return to the park beginning February 3, 2017. The show originally debuted back in 2005 for the 50th anniversary in the park.

“Remember… Dreams Come True” features Tinker Bell’s flight, brilliant fireworks, soaring music, dazzling special effects and an amazing journey through the various lands of Disneyland with archival audio tracks, favorite songs and familiar phrases from some of the park’s most popular attractions, past and present." - Disney Parks Blog

The fireworks will return with regular weekend performances beginning February 3. "Remember ... Dreams Come True" fireworks spectacular will be returning along with the Main Street Electrical Parade which returns to Disneyland January 20.

Disney Removing Large Drinking Cups from Quick Service Restaurants:

WDW News Today is reporting that large drinking cups have been recently removed from several quick service restaurants at Walt Disney World. The confirmed locations that have the cups removed are Sleepy Hallow Refreshments, Cosmic Ray's, Casey's Corner, Westward Ho, and Pecos Bill's, which are all located at the Magic Kingdom.

Photo Credit: WDW News Today

Some restaurants such as the Electric Umbrella and Sunshine Seasons among others do not have the option of the large cup instead they have self-serve soda fountains. There has been no reasons found why the large cups were removed from the quick service restaurants. Stay tuned for more information.

Ring in the New Year with #DisneyParksLIVE; Walt Disney Studios Makes History at Box Office

Ring in the New Year with #DisneyParksLIVE:

Disney fans will once again ring in the New Year with #DisneyParksLIVE and the Disney Parks Blog. Fans will be treated to the live stream of the "Fantasy in the Sky" fireworks this New Year's Eve, December 31. The live stream will be live from the Magic Kingdom at 11:45 PM EST.

A new blog post on the Disney Parks Blog will appear at the top of the page before the live stream begins. I can't wait to ring in 2017 by watching fireworks from my favorite place in the world.

Walt Disney Studios Breaks Makes History at the Box Office in 2016:

"Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" helped Walt Disney Studios make history at the box office. After Rogue One's opening weekend debut, Walt Disney Studios made history by being the very first studios to top $7 billion at the box office in a calendar year. 

In 2016, Disney had 3 films top the $1 billion mark in the box office in Zootopia, Captain America: Civil War, and Finding Dory. Other major contributors to the history making year were: The Jungle Book, Doctor Strange, and most recently Moana. "The Jungle Book" also came close to topping the $1 billion mark bringing in $966.6 million. 

Chairman of Walt Disney Studios Alan Horn said, "This historic achievement is possible because all our film studios are bringing their absolute best to the table, telling great stories of all kinds that resonate with audiences across borders, gender, and generations.”

Here is to another successful year at the box office for Walt Disney Studios in 2017 and Congratulations to them on making history in 2016. 

Dick Van Dyke Will Appear in "Mary Poppins Returns"; Saw Gerrera Will be Coming to "Star Wars Rebels"

Dick Van Dyke Will Appear in "Mary Poppins Returns":

"It's a jolly holiday with Mary." Great news for the sequel of "Mary Poppins" in Disney Legend Dick Van Dyke will be appearing according to a report by The Hollywood Reporter. He played the hilarious chimney sweep Bert in the original in 1964 alongside Oscar winner Julie Andrews. 

The 91-year old Van Dyke is still going strong. The article is about several actors and actresses who are still working in their 90's. Van Dyke stated about joining the sequel, "[The sequel] supposedly takes place 20 years later and the kids are all grown up…It's a great cast — Meryl Streep, Angela Lansbury and that guy [Lin-Manuel Miranda] from Hamilton.”

"Mary Poppins Returns" will star Emily Blunt as Mary Poppins along with Miranda who will play a street lamplighter named Jack. Rob Marshall will direct and John DeLuca along with Marc Platt will serve as producers for the film. The film is scheduled to hit theaters Christmas Day 2018.

Saw Gerrera Set to Join "Star Wars Rebels":

Confirmed: Today, a video has been released by Star Wars explaining that when "Star Wars Rebels" returns in January, Saw Gerrera will be appearing where his origins will be explained. Gerrera like in "Rogue One" will be voiced by Forest Whitaker. Check out the video below:


Original Story:
In a poster found at Toys R' Us, it appears Saw Gerrera recently from "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" and in the past "Star Wars Clone Wars" will be crossing over into "Star Wars Rebels" in the second half of Season 3. Here is the poster:

It appears as we will see why Saw had a falling out with the Rebellion after it was revealed in "Rogue One" she Mon Mothma tells Jyn that Saw was a liability for the rebellion and they weren't working with him anymore. When he appears in "Rebels" as he leads an investigation on Geonosis. 

Source: Making Star Wars

"Rogue One" Destroys Weekend Box Office, Has Second Best December Debut Ever

Second only to the record-performance of "Star Wars: The Force Awakens," Rogue One: A Star Wars Story smashed the weekend box office bringing in $155 million domestically in its debut. It opened no.1 internationally, bringing in $290 million with the film yet to premiere in both China and Korea. The film had the best Thursday-opening of the year bringing in $29 million.

After its big Thursday debut, "Rogue One" out-performed its expectations for a predicted $130 million debut. It is expected with no other big films set to debut for the rest of 2016, "Rogue One" may remain number 1 at the box office for the remainder of the year into 2017.

"Rogue One" which sets up the story of "A New Hope" in the Star Wars Galaxy stars Felicity Jones as Jyn Erso and Diego Luna as Captain Cassian Andor. The two lead a group of rebels in their mission to steal the plans of the Empire's destructive weapon, the Death Star.

The first standalone Star Wars film overtook Disney's "Moana" for number 1 at the box office, after it held the top spot over the last 3 weeks leading up to the monster debut of "Rogue One." "Moana" was a distant second over the weekend taking in $11.66 million in its 4th week since it debuted during Thanksgiving. Also still clinging in the top 10 is Marvel's "Doctor Strange" which took in $2 million over the weekend.

Source: ABC News

Movie Review: "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" Starts Slow But Ends with a Bang (Spoiler Free)

After taking in "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" last night, I had to let my feelings about the film actually settle before I wrote my review. "Rogue One" is the story of Jyn Erso and a crew of rebels assembled to steal the plans for the Death Star from the Galactic Empire. The film itself started out slow and could be boring for fans of the saga. It is the second half of the film that will get you excited  for the film.

I will not spoil what happens in the film but you can certainly say that the saying, "expect the unexpected," holds true. "Rogue One" is a great beginning for the Star Wars standalone films. You will not be disappointed when you go see this film. Once again Disney and LucasFilm have done it again after last year's success of "The Force Awakens." I came away so impressed on how they did this film and where they took the storyline. 

I had low expectations going into the film since it had nothing to do with the main storyline of the Star Wars saga. I came away with high expectation to see what they will do with the next standalone films after this one was so well done. It's going to be interesting where they take the next one in the story of a young Han Solo.  

My favorite characters were definitely Baze Malbus and Chirrut Imwe, what a duo that played their characters so well. I believe that "I am one with the force, the force is one with me," will be one of the most quoted lines of the film. Their friendship showed through to the end of the film as Baze guided his blind friend into battle against the Galactic Empire.

Overall, I'll give this film 4 out of 5 popcorn bags. It was a great beginning for the Star Wars standalone films. As I said though if the film had carried through with an exciting film throughout the whole film, it might have been my favorite Star Wars film. Alas though with its great second half, "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, will be another great success at the box office. 

New DuckTales Series Cast Revealed, Walt Disney World Introducing AP Entry Lines, & More

New DuckTales Series Cast Revealed:

The new DuckTales series will premiere in Summer 2017 on Disney XD. Today, we learned who will voice our favorite returning characters when the series premieres. A video was also released of the new cast singing the famous theme song from the series.

"The trio of troublemakers, Huey, Dewey, and Louie, will be voiced by Danny Pudi, Ben Schwartz, and Bobby Moynihan, respectively. David Tennant joins the cast as Scrooge McDuck, with Beck Bennett voicing his pilot, Launchpad McQuack. Mrs. Beakley (Toks Olagundoye) and Webby Vanderquack (Kate Micucci) are back, and DuckTales devotees will be happy to know that favorite characters like Donald Duck, Flintheart Glomgold, Gyro Gearloose, Duckworth, Gizmoduck, Magica DeSpell, Gladstone Gander, and Ma Beagle and the Beagle Boys will also take part in the wacky, quacky adventures."- Nicole Nalty, D23.com

Here is the cast singing the famous theme song of the show:

Walt Disney World Introducing Annual Passholder Entry Lines for Holidays:

Walt Disney World is introducing separate entry lines for its Annual Passholders at all four of its parks for the next coming weeks. Beginning December 21, annual passholders will be able to utilize their own entry lines entering into the parks. 

No end date or details were announced about the new entry lines for Annual Passholders. 

Several Magic Kingdom Restaurants Adding Alcohol to their Menu's:

Photo Credit: WDW Info

Several Magic Kingdom restaurants will be adding alcohol to their menu's beginning next week during lunch and dinner. Up until 2012 none of the restaurants in the Magic Kingdom had served alcohol on their menu's. It was something Walt even at Disneyland tried to keep the park mostly dry for fear of guests drinking excessively and becoming unruly at the parks. Be Our Guest was the first in the Magic Kingdom to serve alcohol on their menu.

Here is some of the choices guests will have at each of the four restaurants which include Tony's Town Square, Liberty Tree Tavern, Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper Canteen, and Cinderella's Royal Table.

• Tony’s Town Square Restaurant, the Italian restaurant close to the entrance of the park, will serve Italian wines and beers, including a Chianti Superiore that will pair well with their grilled pork chop with mushroom-bean pancetta ragu and marsala reduction.
• Liberty Tree Tavern will serve beer, cider and domestic wines to go with the American cuisine they serve. A New England lager is paired with the Patriot’s Platter.
• Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper Canteen, the newest restaurant in Adventureland will beverages from around the world such as a riesling to pair with Trader Sam’s head-on shrimp.
• Cinderella’s Royal Table, inside Cinderella Castle, will serve champagne and sparkling wine.

New Holiday Trading Pin Gift Cards Released

The new Holiday Pin Series Gift Cards were recently released at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland. The gift cards come in four different characters that include Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, and Pluto. Each gift card comes with a mitten-shaped pin of the character. 

Each of the gift cards will be pre-loaded with $75 to use and the mitten-shaped trading pin. Each pin is treated with a special layer of glitter, these pins will only be available to purchase as part of the limited edition Disney Gift Card Holiday series. 

The gift cards can be used at the Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, Disney Cruise Line, Adventures by Disney, Disney PhotoPass, and any Disney Store locations in the United States. Disney Gift Cards make the perfect gift for Disney fans everywhere for the holiday season. 

45th Anniversary MagicBand 2 Available at Disney World; Alex Timbers in Talks to Direct "Cruella"

45th Anniversary MagicBand 2 Available at Disney World:

According to multiple sites, a second version of the new MagicBand has been released at Magic Kingdom. It is limited edition 45th Anniversary edition of MagicBand 2 and it is themed to 'it's a small world.' It is a Limited Edition size of 2500.

Photo Credit: WDW Info

This particular MagicBand costs $32.99 plus tax. It is being rumored that Annual Passholders will soon be able to get the new puck-style MagicBand very soon in the coming days and weeks. Beginning in the new year, regular guests will soon be using the MagicBand 2.0 in the parks. The great news is have no fear the original MagicBands will still be able to be used inside the parks for the foreseeable future.

Sources: WDW Info and Blog Mickey

Alex Timbers in Talks to Direct "Cruella":

Alex Timbers, co-creator of Amazon's "Mozart in the Jungle" and co-director of Broadway's "Peter and the Starcatcher, is currently in talks with Disney to direct the live-action film, "Cruella." The film is set to star Emma Stone. 

The film is written by Aline Brosh McKenna and Kelly Marcel. There is no set release date for the live-action film based off the famous villain from Disney's animated classic "101 Dalmatians."

"Walt Week" to be Celebrated by D23 and Disney Parks Around the World

This Thursday December 15, marks the 50th Anniversary of the man that started it all, Walt Disney's passing. To honor the man that started it all, D23 and Disney Parks are launching, "Walt Week: Celebrating the Legacy of Imagination, Creativity, and Innovation." D23 will be honoring Walt with a series of features available to guests at D23.com/WalkWithWalt, its quarterly publication in Disney twenty-three, and at Disney Parks around the world.

On December 15, guests at Disneyland, Walt Disney World, Disneyland Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland and Tokyo Disney Resort are invited to join the celebration of Walt’s extraordinary life by sharing a message on Memory Boards that will be placed at each resort. The boards will be on display for all to see at D23 Expo: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, from July 14–16 at the Anaheim Convention Center.

Here are the locations and time of the Memory Boards which are subject to change:

• Disneyland Resort: The gallery inside the Main Street Opera House at Disneyland park from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m
• Walt Disney World Resort: Inside One Man’s Dream at Disney’s Hollywood Studios from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Disneyland Paris: Inside the Liberty Arcade on Main Street, U.S.A., at the entrance of “Statue of Liberty Tableau” from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Hong Kong Disneyland: Inside Art of Animation on Main Street, U.S.A., from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
• Tokyo Disney Resort: Mark Twain Riverboat queue from 8:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

It will be an honor to give thanks to the man that started it all in Walt Disney. 

Lunar New Year Celebration Expanding at California Adventure; Disney Parks Blog Meetup for "Rogue One"

Lunar New Year Celebration Expanding at California Adventure:

The Lunar New Year Celebration at Disney California Adventure this year will expand this year to 17 days. It will run through January 20, 2017 through February 5, 2017. It will feature delicious food, live performances, fun-filled activities, beautiful decor, special limited-time merchandise, Disney characters dressed in their Lunar New Year best, and so much more. Here is what guests can expect as announced on the Disney Parks Blog:

"Each night, before “World of Color,” the Lunar New Year Celebration will culminate in a new six-minute pre-show called “Hurry Home,” presented in water, animation and special effects on Paradise Bay. This charming story of a Little Lantern on its journey home to join its Lantern family in celebrating Lunar New Year features animated appearances by Mulan and Mushu in “dream sequences” inspired by traditional Chinese paper cut-out style animation and a score highlighted by an original arrangement of the music created for the Grand Opening of Shanghai Disney Resort by Academy Award-winning composer Tan Dun (“Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon”)."

Other highlights of the even include:

• Three new Asian marketplaces offering foods inspired by Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese cultures.
• Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Mulan and Mushu, dressed in their best to celebrate Lunar New Year.
• Incredible entertainment throughout the Paradise Garden area, including a troupe of Chinese acrobats and a variety of authentic musicians and performers.

Will you be visiting Disney California Adventure for the Lunar New Year Celebration?

Disney Parks Blog Meetup for "Rogue One" Viewing:

We are just 3 days away from the premiere of "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story." The Disney Parks Blog will be holding a special viewing for the premiere this Thursday, December 15 for the final meetup of the year. The event will begin at 7 p.m. with doors opening at 5:30 p.m. at the AMC Disney Springs 24 Theater at Walt Disney World. 

They are encouraging guests to dress in costume as long as the follow the policy posted in today's blog post. Here is the policy as well as some other information guests who got confirmation for the sold out event should know:

Here is the event costume policy:

• Face paint or masks of any kind may not be worn.
• Costumes may not contain any weapons that resemble or could easily be mistaken for an actual weapon.
• Costumes may not contain sharp objects, pointed objects or materials that may accidentally strike another guest.
• Disney reserves the right to deny admission to or remove any person wearing attire that is considered inappropriate or attire that could detract from the experience of other guests.
• All Guests may dress as their favorite character, but may not pose for pictures or sign autographs for other guests.
• Costumes must be family-friendly and may not be obstructive, offensive, objectionable or violent.
• Guests who do not adhere to these guidelines may be refused entry into, and/or removed from, unless his or her costume can be modified to meet the above standards.

Guests are encouraged to arrive early. Seating is first come first seated. No one will be admitted late. The screening may be overbooked and seating is not guaranteed. Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures (WDSMP), its affiliates and the theatre are not responsible for overbooking. We may refuse, revoke or limit admission in our sole discretion at any time.

As always May the Force Be With You All.

Moana, Zootopia Nominated for Golden Globes, Choza Del Tequila Coming to Epcot

Moana, Zootopia Nominated for Golden Globes:

"Moana" for the third straight weekend in a row took the top spot at the Box Office. Today, the film got even more good news. "Moana" was nominated for two Golden Globes awards one for Best Animated Feature and another for Best Original Song in "How Far I'll Go" written by Lin-Manuel Miranda. 

That wasn't the only good news for Walt Disney Animation Studios as "Zootopia" also got the nod for Best Animated Feature. "Zootopia" was Disney Animation's very successful film earlier this year. It won Best Animate Feature during the 22nd Annual Critics Choice Awards over the weekend.

Left off the nomination list for Best Animated Feature was Pixar's "Finding Dory." A shock as Pixar took the top nod last year for "Inside Out."

Choza Del Tequila Coming to Epcot:

Picture Courtesy: WDW News Today

We now know what will replace the famous margarita stand that closed earlier this year. A replacement to the stand will soon be coming to Epcot's Mexico Pavilion. Choza Del Tequila will open sometime in early 2017 according to WDW News Today. Nothing officially has been announced by Disney although it is expected to happen soon. 

The new stand will be located just outside the pavilion's main entrance. It will serve freshly made and frozen margaritas as well as featuring a well-stocked tequila bar. It will also feature food offerings such as tacos, chips with salsa and guacamole, and more.