J.J. Abrams to Write & Direct Episode IX, Film Pushed Back; New "Coco" Poster Released

J.J. Abrams to Write & Direct Star Wars: Episode IX, Film Pushed Back a Few Months:

The man behind "The Force Awakens" will now take the reins for the final film of the Star Wars saga in Episode IX. J.J. Abrams will now direct the film after last week Colin Trevorrow was let go as director of the film last week. Abrams will also co-write the film with Chris Terrio.

"Star Wars: Episode IX" will be produced by Kathleen Kennedy, Michelle Rejwan, Abrams, Bad Robot, and Lucasfilm. 

“With The Force Awakens, J.J. delivered everything we could have possibly hoped for, and I am so excited that he is coming back to close out this trilogy,” said Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy.

The film which was scheduled to be released on May 24, 2019 has now been pushed back to December 20, 2019. 

Source: Star Wars

New Poster Released for Pixar's Coco:

A new poster has been released for Disney Pixar's "Coco" today. A new trailer for the film will be released tomorrow, September 13 at 12 p.m. EST/ 9 a.m. PST. Check out the poster below:

Disney Pixar's "Coco" hits theaters November 22.

BB-8 Meet & Greet Coming to Star Wars Launch Bay

Yes, I am writing a blog just to announce this news because my obsession and a dream is finally coming true. A BB-8 meet and greet is coming to Star Wars Launch Bay at Disney's Hollywood Studios this Spring. 

BB-8 will appear in addition to Kylo Ren and Chewbacca, two characters from the Star Wars galaxy who guests regularly encounter at Star Wars Launch Bay. In addition to character greetings, the location also offers guests the chance to explore galleries full of treasured memorabilia and authentic replicas of large-scale Star Wars artifacts, including some from the latest film in the franchise, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.

I couldn't be more excited to finally be able to meet BB-8 although I am also heartbroken as I won't see him until next year as no visit is planned this year. Stay tuned as BB-8 will be making his debut in the coming weeks.

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 ALEX AND ANI 'Words Are Powerful' Princess Collection; Introducing Star Wars Collectibles: Ultimate Studio Edition

New ALEX AND ANI 'Words Are Powerful' Princess Collection:

On June 13, the new 'Words are Powerful' ALEX AND ANI collection will debut with a touch of royalty of the Disney princesses. Each of the bracelets have a silhouette of four popular Disney princesses along with a popular saying added to the colorful bangles.

The four princesses featured are Ariel, Belle, Cinderella, and Aurora. Ariel's is a green-infused bangle with it saying, "Follow Your Dreams, Wherever They Lead." Belle's is yellow and her's says, "Find True Beauty Within." Cinderella's is blue and her's say's, "Believe in Every Wish." Finally, Aurora's is pink and says, "Awaken Your Heart." Each bangle will come in either shiny gold or shiny silver finishes and cost $44.95 plus tax each.

They will be available both online, on the Disney Parks App, and in stores at Disney Parks. Here is a list of locations where they will be available:

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

Introducing Star Wars Collectibles: Ultimate Studio Edition:

Are you a Star Wars fanatic? Well Star Wars today introduced some special edition collectibles including the infamous melted Darth Vader mask from "Star Wars: The Force Awakens." The new collection is called Star Wars Collectibles Ultimate Studio Edition. The collectibles are precisely detailed prop replicas of the finest craftsmanship from the makers of the props from Star Wars: The Force Awakens. 

The Darth Vader melted helmet alone will cost you $3,500, but has a limited edition size of 500. For a full list of collectibles in the collection visit collectibles.starwars.com. Here is a behind the scenes look at the making of these ultimate Star Wars collectibles:

Kylo Ren’s most prized possession is now an ultimate work of art: https://t.co/XVlhkzzrCXhttps://t.co/dN3Kubg9nR

— Star Wars (@starwars) June 1, 2016

"Star Wars: The Force Awakens" Told in Emoji's; Disney Channel Classics to Air on Freeform in May

"Star Wars: The Force Awakens" as Told in Emoji's:

Today, "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" was told in a form that has never been seen before. Like many other of its films Disney released the emoji version of 'The Force Awakens' and of course it was amazing. I won't rattle on just watch:

It's true. All of it. @StarWars: #TheForceAwakens gets the emoji treatment. 😱https://t.co/dnsqcFfr3g

— Disney (@Disney) May 2, 2016

Disney Channel Classics to Air on Freeform in May:

Are you missing your favorite Disney Channel shows that aren't on anymore from the 2000's? If the Disney Channel Original Movie Marathon that is airing on the Disney Channel later this month isn't enough to make you sob, this will. 

This month on Freeform, Disney Channel classics will air on the station from midnight to 2 a.m. every Monday through Thursday. Every night for two hours four of our favorites will air starting of tonight with Lizzie McGuire, then That's So Raven, followed by Hannah Montana, and ending with Kim Possible. 

That's not all as every Friday during the month Freeform will air a Disney Channel Original Movie during the two-hour block. The schedule is as follows: Twitches (May 6), Get A Clue (May 13), Stuck in the Suburbs (May 20), and finally Smart House (May 27). 

The throwback begins tonight on Freeform beginning at midnight. Oh the feels. 

Three New Food Kiosks Joining the Disney Springs Line-Up; 'Force Awakens' Tsum Tsum's Arriving June 21

Three New Food Kiosks Joining the Disney Springs Line-Up:

Three new food kiosks will be joining the Disney Springs line-up that will bring diverse cuisines and plenty of options will be opening very soon. The three new kiosks are Aristocrepes, Daily Poutine, and B.B. Wolf's Sausage Co.

Taste a variety of crepes at Aristocrepes including:

• Beef with horseradish cream, red onion, baby spinach, and sharp cheddar
• Vegetarian with pickled beets, goat cheese, candied pecans, and baby greens
• Turkey with Brie, dried cranberries, and Dijon spread
• Smoked salmon with cream cheese, capers, onion, and 'everything bagel' topping
• S'mores crepe with marshmallow cream, chocolate sauce, and graham cracker crumbs
• Banana with Nutella and salted caramel
• Key Lime Cheesecake with white chocolate and chiffon crouton
• Strawberries Romanoff with Chantilly cream and strawberries

You can pair your crepes with wine on tap, beer, or even hard alcohol sodas (Not Your Father's Hard Root Beer and Henry's Hard Orange Soda). There are non-alcoholic beverages as well including Frozen Joffrey's Frappe Mocha and hot cocoa.

The Daily Poutine will bring the Canadian classic thick-cut French Fries with four different toppings. They include: Classic, with beef poutine gravy and cheddar cheese curds; Latin with fried yucca, black beans, pulled pork, and quest fresco, Italian with Bocconcino mozzarella and Bolognese sauce; and French with mushroom cream sauce and Gruyere cheese. Pair you Poutine fries with draft beer, sangria, lemonade, or fountain soda.

B.B. Wolf's Sausage Co. will include artisan sausages that include:

• The Three Little Pigs - a trio of sausages each with different toppings: Reuben, bacon-wrapped with black bean salsa and chili cheese; Portuguese sausage with pickled vegetable slaw and chili mustard
• Sweet Hot Sausage - peppers, onions, and marinara
• Bavarian Sausage sandwich - a mini meterwerst with braised red cabbage, spicy brown mustard on a pretzel roll
• Italian Veggie Sausage - peppers, onions, and marinara

Cool off with a draft beer or fountain soda. B.B. Wolf's Sausage Co. and The Daily Poutine will open along with the Disney Springs Town Center on May 15. Aristocrepes will open on May 22.

'Force Awakens' Tsum Tsum's Arriving June 21 at the Disney Store:

There has been an awakening with Disney Tsum Tsum's as the Disney Store announced today that the  "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" collections will be debuting at store's nationwide on June 21. For those who can't wait until June 21, Disney Store Japan will release the collection on May 4, 2016, the Star Wars Holiday, as part of a larger collection.

The collection will include a mini collection that includes: Rey, Rey with goggles, Kylo Ren, BB-8, Finn Stormtrooper, Finn in pilot jacket, Captain Phasma, Poe Dameron, and a First Order Stormtrooper. There will also be a big BB-8 Tsum Tsum and medium Tsum Tsum's that will include BB-8, Captain Phasma, and Kylo Ren. 

Disney Visa Character Experience Eliminates Complimentary Photo; 'Rogue One' Merchandise Packaging

Disney Visa Character Experience Eliminates Complimentary Photo:

Last Thursday, the Disney Visa Character Experience eliminated the perk of the complimentary 5x7 photo for Disney Visa cardholders. Although it was a great perk for cardmembers, it seems the deal got a little bit better with the elimination of the complimentary photo.

Now guests will have the option to digitally download All their photos from their Disney Visa Character Experience meet and greet instead of just choosing one complimentary 5x7 option from all the photos taken by cast members during the experience. 

This will be a great perk for guests who aren't annual pass holders, Disney Signature, Disney Signature Plus, or Disney Premier Annual Passports (who already get free digital downloads from all PhotoPass photos already). The photos are only available for download for only 45 days after your trip. 

Story Info Provided by MouseInfo. 

'Rogue One' Merchandise Packaging Revealed:

The trailer was just released a few days ago and much like when 'The Force Awakens' had special packaging for its merchandise, so will "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story." The packaging image has a storm trooper (most likely the new Death Trooper) and two AT-AT's. 

Now, we don't have a date for when the new merchandise will be released. It has already been announced that it will be released much like "The Force Awakens" merchandise was released during last year's event called Force Friday. So stay tuned for more information on that. 

Recap of Disney's 2016 Shareholders' Meeting; Preview "The Jungle Book" at Disney Parks

Recap of Disney's 2016 Shareholders' Meeting:

Today, the Walt Disney Company held its annual shareholders' meeting in Chicago, Illinois. The meeting kicked off with the announcement by Bob Iger how happy it was to be there in Walt's birthplace. He then announced that the company would be donating $250,000 to the Center for Early Childhood Creativity and Innovation at the Walt Disney Birthplace.

Photo Credit: D23

They then officially announced the digital and blu-ray release of "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" for April 1 on digital and April 5 on Blu-ray. The bonus material included in the release will include:

• Secrets of The Force Awakens: A Cinematic Journey—For the first time, discover the complete story behind the making of The Force Awakens, revealed through in-depth footage and exclusive interviews with the actors and filmmakers in this feature documentary.
• The Story Awakens: The Table Read—Cast members familiar and new reflect on the memorable day they all first came together to read the movie’s script.
• Building BB-8—See how the filmmakers brought the newest droid to the screen, creating an instant fan favorite in the Star Wars universe.
• Crafting Creatures—Watch movie magic as the filmmakers bring a cast of new creatures to life.
• Blueprint of a Battle: The Snow Fight—Go deeper into the epic, climactic lightsaber battle between Rey and Kylo Ren.
• John Williams: The Seventh Symphony—The legendary composer shares personal insights of his work on Star Wars and The Force Awakens.
• ILM: The Visual Magic of The Force—An insider’s look into the remarkable digital artistry of the movie’s visual effects.
• Force For Change—Heroes come in all shapes and sizes. See how the Star Wars: Force for Change initiative has united Star Wars fans all over the globe to help others.
• Plus Deleted Scenes

That wasn't all the Star Wars news is that Iger said the company would break land officially on Star Wars Land in both Disneyland and Walt Disney World next month in April. 

Photo Credit: The Walt Disney Company

The biggest news however came from Disney Cruise Line as they announced two new ships will be added to the fleet in 2021 and 2023. Disney Cruise Line said that they have reached a memorandum of agreement with Germany's Meyer's Werft shipyard. Each ship will gross approximately 135,000 tons, slightly larger than both the Disney Dream and Fantasy. Each ship is currently planned to have 1,250 staterooms. 

In the official announcement Bob Iger had this to say, "We pride ourselves on the unforgettable vacation experiences we deliver to our guests each and every day, and the expansion of our Disney fleet will allow us to create even more magical memories for families at sea and in incredible cruise destinations around the world."

Bob Chapek, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts, added: "The expansion of Disney Cruise Line only adds to our excitement for the unprecedented growth taking place across our vacation destinations, from new Star Wars experiences coming to the Walt Disney World and Disneyland resorts to the 25th anniversary of Disneyland Paris and the grand opening of our newest park, Shanghai Disney Resort."

Still no word on when Star Wars Land will open in either of the parks or the new name for Hollywood Studios at Disney World. 

Preview "The Jungle Book" at Disney Parks Beginning March 18:

Soon you will be able to preview scenes from "The Jungle Book" at both Disney California Adventure and Disney World beginning March 18. At each of the parks guests will be treated to a special introduction by director John Favreau as he pays homage to Walt Disney, the original animated classic, and the legacy of Disney's innovative storytelling. 

The preview will be shown in The Bug's Life Theater at Disney California Adventure with special in-theater effects. At Disney's Hollywood Studios, the preview will be shown inside One Man's Dream where guests will see an advance look at clips. 

"The Jungle Book" is based on Rudyard Kipling's timeless stories and of course is inspired by Walt Disney's animated classic. The story takes us on a journey of Mowgli, a man-cub who's been raised by a family of wolves. The film will hit theaters in 3D on April 15, 2016. 

LEGO Star Wars Short to Debut with Focus on 'The Force Awakens', New Concept Art for Rivers of Light, and More

New LEGO Star Wars Short to Debut on Disney XD to Focus on 'The Force Awakens':

With a focus on what happened during "The Force Awakens", a new LEGO Star Wars 5-episode short will begin on Disney XD this coming Monday, February 15. The new series is titled, LEGO Star Wars: The Resistance Rises. This comes after yesterday's announcement that LEGO Star Wars: The Freemaker Adventures, a new series will be debuting this summer. 

The action-adventure comedy series will focus on characters from Episode VII of the saga on the likes of Kylo Ren, Han Solo, Finn, BB-8, Rey, Maz Kanata, and more. The series will take place ahead of the First Order's attack on Jakku in the movie. 

The first episode is titled, "Poe to the Rescue", and focuses on Poe Dameron as he attempts to save Admiral Ackbar from the clutches of Captain Phasma and the First Order. Disney released a sneak peak of the first episode, check it out:

New Concept Art for "Rivers of Light" at Disney's Animal Kingdom:

New concept art for "Rivers of Light" has been released featuring what appears to be floating lanterns as large floating animal sculptures loom among water fountains and mist screens. "Rivers of Light" is expected to debut this Spring at Disney's Animal Kingdom.

GMA to Announce Newest Disney Princess Next Week:

While details are scarce, next Friday, February 19th on Good Morning America the newest Disney princess will be announced. It could be a new one or one that we already know of like Moana or Elena. 

This comes after yesterday's announcement of Disney's newest campaign, "Dream Big, Princess" to inspire young girls to dream big and that they can do whatever they put their heart in. Stay tuned for the big announcement next week. 

Disney Officially Announces Wide World of Sports Expansion, Josh Gad Will Take Viewers Around Disneyland, and More

Disney Officially Announces ESPN Wide World of Sports Expansion:

Last week, Disney filed permits for an expansion of its ESPN Wide World of Sports complex for a new 286,000 square foot building. We now know exactly what is being built as Disney made it official today with the announcement they are breaking ground on an 8,000 seat venue geared towards cheerleading and dance competitions. They will break ground this month with an expected completion by mid-2017. 

Disney in conjunction with Varsity Spirit teamed up to create the first state-of-the-art venue that is specifically designed for cheer and dance competitions. The venue will include a flexible design for one large competition space that can be set up for as many as four competition areas. Additional areas are being tailored for warming up and practicing, along with an area for judges and officials. 

The new multi-use sports and entertainment venue will also have the ability to host up to six regulation basketball courts, six regulation volleyball courts, or concert configurations. There will also be concessions throughout the venue with an additional box office and entry to the complex. 

“As our sports business continues to grow, we’re thrilled to work alongside Varsity Spirit to create a sporting and entertainment venue that will not only complement our existing venues, but will be a model for cheerleading and dance team competitions,” said Maribeth Bisienere, senior vice president of ESPN Wide World of Sports. “We value our young athletes and want to give these incredible guests an experience that can only be achieved at Disney.”

“Varsity Spirit invented the modern day cheerleading and dance competition, and we are proud to be the force behind this project, which represents our commitment to providing the very best and safest environment in the world for our athletes and coaches,” said Jeff Webb, Founder and Chairman of Varsity Brands. “Since this building has been designed specifically for spirit teams, we can’t wait to provide an even more high quality competition experience to thousands of athletes each year.”

The ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex hosts six cheer and dance competitions annually through its collaboration with Varsity Spirit. The events bring tens of thousands of athletes along with there family and fans to Walt Disney World yearly. According to Varsity Spirit, the sport of cheerleading continues to rise in popularity around not only the country but around the world. 

Josh Gad Will Take Viewers Around Disneyland During Disneyland 60 Special:

The actor who plays the lovable character Olaf in "Frozen", Josh Gad, will take viewers around Disneyland to rarely seen places during the upcoming Disneyland 60 special on ABC. Gad will take us on tour to see Walt's famous apartment above Main Street, USA and the Disneyland Dream Suite in New Orleans Square. He will even explore some Disney fan favorites such as everybody's favorite the Dole Whip during the two-hour special on February 21.

It appears as Disney isn't done adding to its list of stars for the special as Ne-Yo, Little Big Town, Fall Out Boy and Disney Legend Dick Van Dyke have all been added to the list for the special night. The Wonderful World of Disney: Disneyland 60 special will air from 8-10 p.m. on February 21 on ABC.

"Star Wars: The Force Awakens" to Break $2 Billion Globally This Weekend:

"Star Wars: The Force Awakens" continues to slash through records at the box office as it is expected to cross over $900 million domestically on its 50th day since its release. It is the only film in U.S. box office history to cross that plateau. That is not all as the film is expected to cross $2 Billion Globally only the second film ever in its original theatrical release.

“This is a historic moment for Star Wars, for Lucasfilm, and for Disney, and all of us here are extremely gratified to be a part of this journey with fans around the world who have made Star Wars: The Force Awakens such an extraordinary success,” said Alan Horn, Chairman, The Walt Disney Studios. “The film’s achievements are truly astounding, and it’s our great honor to relaunch this cinematic galaxy not only for all the devoted decades-long fans but for a new generation who will keep the Star Wars legacy alive for many years to come.”

"Star Wars: The Force Awakens" in its 8 weeks since being released has broken numerous records at the box office both domestically and globally. The Star Wars saga will continue with Star Wars: Episode VIII due to be released December 15, 2017 which will pick up where 'The Force Awakens' left off. "Star Wars: Rogue One" which will detail the events leading up to "Star Wars: A New Hope" will be released later this year on December 16, 2016.

Reservations Now Open for River Belle Terrace, 'The Force Awakens' Goes Lego, and More

Reservations Now Open for Table-Service Dining at River Belle Terrace:

River Belle Terrace has served home-style eats for more than 60 years at Disneyland, but now beginning February 10, the restaurant will re-open as a table-service location. It will serve your barbecue favorites, tasty sides, and so much more. 

Of course there are new menu items including new appetizers like the creamy pimento cheese dip with toasted bread and crispy celery, grilled and chilled shrimp with a house made BBQ sauce and lemon, and a house salad with arugula, apple, gorgonzola, dried cranberries, candied pecans, and an apple vinaigrette. 

Here is the rest of the menu as seen on the Disney Parks Blog:

"If you’re looking for a lighter entrée, try a salad topped with your choice of chicken, grilled shrimp, brisket or BBQ tofu. Whether you choose River Belle’s Chopped Salad with romaine lettuce, black beans, garbanzo beans, pickles, roasted corn, red bell pepper and tomatoes topped with fried onions served with a BBQ-ranch dressing or the Terrace Wedge with iceberg lettuce, tomatoes, bacon, crumbled gorgonzola, garnished with pickled red onions and buttermilk-gorgonzola dressing, you can’t go wrong.

For the main attraction, Disneyland Resort chefs were inspired by barbecue tastes from up and down the Mississippi River. Look for tasty entrees like pork spare ribs, oven-roasted barbecue chicken, barbecue tofu, sustainable fish, oven-roasted sausage links and sandwiches featuring fried chicken, beef brisket or pulled pork. Each entree includes a side of River Belle Terrace’s signature baked beans as well as a choice of tangy coleslaw, seasoned tater bites, potato salad or seasonal vegetables. Kids will love the oven-roasted chicken, sustainable fish, BBQ ribs or mac ‘n cheese, each served with seasonal vegetables and fruit.

No Southern meal is complete without dessert. Satisfy your sweet tooth with the warm maple, apple and bacon bundt cake or butterscotch pudding parfait. For a twist on a classic dessert, try the fried cheesecake."

Reservations of course are now open and you can do so by visiting Disneyland.com/dine or by calling  714-781-DINE (3463).

"The Force Awakens" is Going Lego with New Video Game:

Star Wars: The Force Awakens is coming to the LEGO Star Wars Franchise as fans can prepare to build and blast on June 28, 2016. The game will be released on Playstation 4 and Playstation 3 (with exclusive DLC content), Playstation Vita, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Wii U, the Nintendo 3DS family of systems, and Windows PC. Here is the full announcement along with the trailer for "LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens":

The Force — and bricks — are calling to you. LEGO #StarWars: #TheForceAwakens is coming: https://t.co/YTDhlFnkkzhttps://t.co/EtrLVEMh0N

— Star Wars (@starwars) February 2, 2016

CALLING ALL JEDI MASTERS AND MASTER BUILDERS: ANNOUNCING LEGO STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS
GET READY TO BUILD AND BLAST ON JUNE 28.

The Force — and the bricks — are calling to you.Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, TT Games, The LEGO Group, and Lucasfilm today announced LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens, a new entry in the No. 1 LEGO video game franchise, allowing players to experience all the action of the hit film combined with LEGO’s hallmark humor and visual style. Coming June 28, 2016, for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 3 (along with exclusive DLC), PlayStation Vita, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Wii U, the Nintendo 3DS family of systems, and Windows PC, the game is set to be an essential experience for gamers and Star Wars fans alike. LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens will feature new gameplay mechanics to build, battle, and fly through the galaxy like never before, and also offer new story content exploring the time period between Return of the Jedi and The Force Awakens, adding additional insight into the movie and its characters. Get a first look in the trailer below! 

We’re extremely proud of the LEGO Star Wars video games, truly an incredible franchise that has sold more than 33 million copies and helped ignite a passion for numerous fun-filled LEGO games enjoyed by countless fans around the world,” said Tom Stone, managing director, TT Games. “LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens will be bigger and better in every way, pushing the series forward with innovative new gameplay mechanics, while also exploring new parts of the universe that is sure to excite and delight both Star Wars fans and newcomers.”

“We are thrilled to be bringing back the LEGO Star Wars videogame franchise, which kicked off such a beloved series of LEGO titles more than a decade ago,” said Ada Duan, vice president, Digital Business & Franchise Management, Lucasfilm. “LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens allows players to experience the new film in a unique way that only TT Games can provide, combining signature humor with epic Star Wars action. With previously untold story content exploring new 

details about the movie and its characters, it’s a perfect fit for fans of all ages.”

The film’s cast of new and classic heroes and villains — including Rey, Finn, Poe Dameron, Han Solo, Chewbacca, BB-8, Kylo Ren, General Hux, Captain Phasma, and more — await gamers, as do the movie’s exciting locales, such as Jakku and Starkiller Base. Among LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens‘ many innovative gameplay enhancements are: the “Multi-Builds” system, where players can choose from multiple building options to advance the game; new blaster combat, in which players use surrounding environments to drive back the First Order during intense Blaster Battles; and high-speed flight gameplay through arena-based battles and dogfights in space, while gamers utilize a multitude of vehicles along the way, including the legendary Millennium Falcon. In addition, enemies can now build, too, allowing stormtroopers to support each other with reinforcements, air strikes, and heavy artillery, adding another layer of danger to the game.

Stay tuned to StarWars.com for more on LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens, and prepare to relive the latest installment of the Star Wars saga in a bricktastic way.

Star Wars Tsum Tsums Coming to Disney Store on February 16:

Tsum Tsum fans rejoice, your favorite Star Wars characters are finally going to be released on February 16. The collection will include your favorite characters from A New Hope, Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi. Characters being released are Boba Fett, R2-D2, C-3PO, Yoda, Darth Vader, Stormtrooper, Jabba the Hutt, Ewok, Han Solo, Chewbacca, Luke Skywalker, and Princess Leia.  The collection will be launched both in-store and online in the U.S., Japan, and Europe.

All 12 will be available via mini size. The Ewok, Chewbacca, Yoda, Darth Vader, and Stormtrooper will be available in medium size. While Jabba the Hutt and Chewbacca will be available in large size Tsum Tsums. 

Also with the launch of the Star Wars Collection on February 16, a new Star Wars, Disney, or Marvel Tsum Tsum collection will be released with a new #TsumTsumTuesday release cadence with releases on the first and third Tuesday of every month. 

Who's excited for Star Wars Tsum Tsums?

Star Wars Land Rumors Uncovered

Yesterday, MakingStarWars.net revealed some rumors that they have heard about Star Wars Land at Disneyland and I would imagine for Hollywood Studios as well. Here is what they found out from their sources:

• Poe Dameron’s black X-wing fighter will greet guests at the 3rd entrance to Star Wars Land, although an Episode VIII feature to the fighter might make it different from what we know about it from The Force Awakens.
• Characters and creatures from Star Wars: Episode VIII will be featured in the park.
• The Falcon will be real, life sized, not scaled down at all, and sitting on top of a launch pad.
• The Falcon will be opening and closing its main door and aliens/ troopers will be walking around asking people if they’ve seen anyone leave the ship.
• There will be two major attractions, one larger than “Toon Town” itself.
• Don’t worry about not being able to go inside the Falcon. One of the major attractions will take care of that for you as you fly in the cockpit of the freighter itself.
• The word is the Imagineers loved the Rogue One: A Star Wars Story script, but if that will come into play is still hazy. Initial word was the second major attraction would feature Rogue One content, but now that appears to be somewhat unlikely.

Now if these are true, Star Wars Land will blow everything out of the park. With two major attractions and the Millennium Falcon being a central highlight for the land and possibly the park it will blow Universal and Harry Potter away. It also sounds like WDI is trying to get this done by 2018 which is even more impressive for Walt Disney Imagineering itself since it usually takes them forever to build things anymore. None of this of course is confirmed by Disney and we will just have to wait to see if any of it is true. 

Former Disney CEO at Disney World; Walt Disney World Reorganizes Operational Postions; and More

Former Disney CEO Michael Eisner at Disney World:

It appears that Walt Disney World is getting a visit from its former headman with visits to Disney's Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios. Former CEO and Chairman Michael Eisner is making a visit to the parks. He's sent out tweets from both parks.

Walt Disney's private plane.I flew in 1980's Little scary in lightening @DisneyParks @WaltDisneyWorld @WaltDisneyCo pic.twitter.com/1lIbGnwmrK

— Michael Eisner (@Michael_Eisner) January 22, 2016

And this morning from Animal Kingdom in front of the Tree of Life.

@WaltDisneyWorld @DisneyParks great day great park at ANIMAL KINGDOM pic.twitter.com/BdUvknp8tI

— Michael Eisner (@Michael_Eisner) January 22, 2016

Walt Disney World Reorganizes Operations at Its Parks:

Yesterday, Disney World President George Kalogridis announced that Walt Disney World will be reorganizing its operations at its parks. No layoff are expected from the reorganization. It is adding additional duty managers that will provide operational support for day-of issues and also operations will move from being department based to a 'land' based organizational structure.

LaughingPlace.com used this as an example of what is changing:

"For example, the Magic Kingdom currently has a General Manager for different parts of the operation (attractions, merchandise, food and beverage, etc.). Now the General Manager will be in charge of an area (e.g. Tomorrowland). Proprietors would manage each part of the operation within that area. Front line managers would report to the proprietor."

The restructuring will affect Disney World parks, resorts, Disney Springs, and Disney Sports. The new organizational plan philosophy is to take a more holistic approach that will focus more on the overall guest experience, Disney said.

Pre-Order "The Good Dinosaur" and "Star Wars: The Force Awakens":

Today, it was announced that Pixar's "The Good Dinosaur" will be coming to Blu-Ray and Digital HD next month. It will hit shelves including on the Disney Movies Anywhere app on February 23. You can now pre-order the film and receive a free lithographs set when you pre-order. 

Although there is no set release date for "Star Wars: The Force Awakens", Disney has opened pre-orders for the film. When you pre-order the film on the DisneyStore.com, fans will also receive a free lithograph set as well as $10 off a future purchase of $40 or more. The film is set to come to Blu-Ray and Digital HD this Spring (tentatively in April). 

Disney's "The BFG" Releases Movie Poster:

This morning, Disney released a poster for its live-action film "The BFG" that is slated for release on July 1, 2016. The film is directed by Steven Spielberg and is based of the book by Ronald Dahl. The film centers around a girl named Sophie and a giant who introduces her to the wonders and perils of Giant Country. The poster states:

"From the human beans that created E.T. and the author of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" and "Matilda"

Kylo Ren to Encounter Guests at Disney Parks Next Month; Mid-Season Trailer for "Star Wars Rebels"

Kylo Ren to Encounter Guests at Disney Parks Next Month:

Many Disney fans saw Kylo Ren aboard Disneyland's Rose Parade float on New Year's Day and were wondering when we'd see him at Disney Parks. We now have an answer as Kylo Ren will begin greeting guests at Star Wars Launch Bay at Disneyland and at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Guests will encounter Ren on the bridge of his First Order Star Destroyer. 

Kylo Ren will replace the current Darth Vader Meet & Greet at Star Wars Launch Bay. Although, it is not known if Darth Vader will totally leave as it has been said he will switch out with Kylo Ren at Disneyland. No word if the Visa Cardholder Meet & Greet with Darth Vader at Hollywood Studios will remain. 

The Launch Bay as said on the Disney Parks Blog is designed to showcase a variety of Star Wars characters over time. You still will be able to see Chewbacca on the light side of the Launch Bay as well as a garrison of First Order Stormtroopers. What favorite Star Wars characters would you like to at Star Wars Launch Bay at Disney Parks?

Mid-Season Trailer for "Star Wars Rebels" Reveals 'Force Awakens' Connections:

Earlier this week it was revealed when "Star Wars Rebels" returns next week, the show will be getting a visit from Princess Leia. Today, the mid-season trailer was released revealing connections to "Star Wars: The Force Awakens." 

In the trailer we see Ezra holding a triple-blade lightsaber similar to the one Kylo Ren wields in 'The Force Awakens'. Also in the trailer Ezra is visited by a mysterious cloaked figure who calls himself "Old Master" and sounds eerily like Darth Maul. The second half of the season also returns with a visit from everyone's favorite Jedi Master, Yoda. 

Here is the description given for the second half of Season 2 of "Star Wars Rebels" along with the trailer:

"Get a glimpse of what's to come in Star Wars Rebels Season Two in this thrilling mid-season trailer featuring Ezra, Kanan, and Ahsoka, along with returning friends and foes."

"Star Wars Rebels" returns next Wednesday, January 20 at 9/8 C on Disney XD.

Disney Films Nominated for 9 Oscars this Morning

Just about an hour ago we learned the nomination for the 88th Annual Academy Awards as they were revealed in Los Angeles. 2015 was possibly the biggest film year for the Walt Disney Company and Oscar Nominations didn't disappoint. Disney films were nominated for 9 categories. The nominations were announced by actor John Krasinski (The Muppets, Monsters University) along with filmmakers Guillermo del Toro and Ang Lee. Here is a list of the nominations:

• Costume Design - Sandy Powell, "Cinderella"
• Sound Editing - Matthew Wood and David Acord, "Star Wars: The Force Awakens"
• Sound Mixing - Benjamin A. Burtt, Andy Nelson, Gary Rydstrom, "Star Wars: The Force Awakens"
• Animated Short - "Sanjay's Super Team"
• Animated Film - "Inside Out"
• Visual Effects - Robin Guyett, Patrick Tubach, Neil Scanlon, and Chris Courbould, "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" 
• Film Editing - Maryann Brandon and Mary Jo Markey, "Star Wars: The Force Awakens"
• Original Screenplay - Pete Docter, Meg LeFauve, Josh Cooley, and Ronnie del Carmin, "Inside Out"
• Original Score - John Williams, "Star Wars: The Force Awakens"

"Star Wars: The Force Awakens" leads the way with 5 nominations but was shutout from Best Film, Director (J.J. Abrams), and what some thought to be Harrison Ford as he was not nominated for Best Actor in a Supporting Role. For a complete list of the nominations visit here. The 88th Annual Academy Awards will air on ABC on February 28 at 8/7 C and will be hosted this year by Chris Rock. 

Afternoon Tea at Steakhouse 55 Beginning 1/22, Reservations Open for Minnie's Silver Screen Dine, and More

Notes:

• The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights has been extended until Wednesday, January 6. To accommodate the extension Disney's Hollywood Studios has extended its hours until 10 p.m. tonight through Wednesday.
• Soarin' Over California performed its final flight last night and is now closed for refurbishment until sometime this summer. It will re-open as Soarin' Around the World along with the new theater opening.

Afternoon Tea at Steakhouse 55 Beginning on January 22:

Beginning later this month on January 22, Steakhouse 55 will begin hosting 3 different afternoon tea parties from noon to 3 p.m. The parties will bring the rich tradition of a royal afternoon respite to the Disneyland Resort guests where they can enjoy sweets, savories, and a grand selection of a dozen specialty teas.

The Disney Parks Blog gave this say about the teas and what you will be able to pair them with:

"The amazing selection of teas, including Twinings, features a variety of caffeine-free, loose-leaf varieties or herbal infused creations. Pair your favorite sip with traditional scones, an assortment of tea sandwiches, desserts and more. Apertifs, wines by the glass and cordials are available for an additional cost."

The three different parties you will be able to choose from are:

The Classic Tea Party with traditional scones, tea sandwiches, desserts, teas, and herbal infusions. Cost will be $50.

The Premium Tea Party with sparkling wine, Mickey-shaped scones, salads, tea sandwiches, desserts, teas, herbal infusions, and a farewell truffle. Cost will be $55.

A Kid's Tea Party with scones, tea sandwiches, desserts, herbal infused teas, milk, or hot chocolate. Cost will be $35.

Gluten-free and vegan options are available. Reservations can be made by visiting Disneyland.com/dine or by calling 714-781-DINE.

Reservations Now Open for Minnie's Silver Screen Dine at Hollywood & Vine:

The holiday season is over at Hollywood & Vine at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Now, its time for awards season as Minnie invites her friends for the glitz and glamour of a fabulous dinner party for Minnie's Silver Screen Dine from January 4 through March 20. 

Here you'll celebrate the magic of the movies at Hollywood & Vine, which is the hottest spot for awards season. Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy, and Goofy will be dressed in their designer best. It's the perfect Hollywood party filled with dazzling decor and a musical score. 

Some of the stellar eats, guests will be able to choose from are: scene-stealing soups including the famous creamy popcorn soup garnished with caramelized popcorn, best supporting appetizers, best leading entrees including (bacon-wrapped loin, lobster and shrimp macaroni & cheese, and honey-bourbon glazed turkey), and themed desserts.

Reservations are now open and can be made by calling DisneyWorld.com/dine or by calling 407-WDW-DINE.

Star Wars: The Force Awakens Slated to Become Highest-Grossing Domestic Film:

It's the #1 film for the third straight week after earning another $88.3 million over the weekend. "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" has already made $740.3 million to date domestically, it now ranks second all-time. It needs just another $20 million to pass Avatar which holds the top spot at $760.5 million to become the #1 highest-grossing film in U.S. box office history. 

'The Force Awakens' has already made $1.51 billion both domestically and globally since it opened just 2 and half weeks ago on December 18. The film will be opening on Tuesday in China. The question is what will stop this film from becoming the highest growing film ever. Stay tuned as the records keep on breaking for "Star Wars: The Force Awakens."

2015 Year in Review Of Disney News From It All Started With a Mouse

Well, it's time to say goodbye to 2015 and hello to 2016. It was certainly a great year because this blog was started way back in January. I can't thank you, the readers, enough for such a great year. 2015 brought so much great news all around the Walt Disney Company. From Shanghai Disneyland to Star Wars Land, and from "Inside Out" to "Star Wars: The Force Awakens, and so much more. Here is the year in review from It All Started With a Mouse.

Top Stories:

Star Wars Land Coming to Both Coasts, Toy Story Land Coming to Hollywood Studios:

We knew it was coming it was just a matter of time oh when it would be announced. At this year's D23 EXPO in August, Disney Chairman and CEO Bob Iger took the stage to announce that Disneyland and Disney's Hollywood Studios would both be getting a 14-acre Star Wars Land, the largest ever themed land to ever be built in the theme park. The land will include letting guests dive into a whole new planet in the world of Star Wars, including an attraction that will transport guests into a climactic battle between the First Order and the Resistance. The other attraction will allow guests to fly in the Millennium Falcon into an epic Star Wars adventure on a secret mission. The Mos Eisley Cantina will be built as one of the most popular scenes from the original films will allow guests to enjoy a meal from the world of Star Wars.

Later in the day, the rest of the expansion was announced for Hollywood Studios, as new Disney Parks & Resorts Chairman Bob Chapek and lead Disney creator Kathy Mangum took the stage and announced Toy Story Land. Here the 11-acre land will shrink guests into the size of Andy's toys and takes them into Andy's backyard with two new attractions and the expanded third track of Toy Story Midway Mania. Construction on both new lands are expected to begin early in the new year in 2016.

Disneyland Dazzles with 60th Diamond Celebration:

Early this year Disneyland held an event to preview what was coming for its 60th Diamond Celebration in honor of its 60th Birthday that began on May 22. The celebration kicked off with the yearly 24-hour party. Debuting this year in honor of the celebration was the new Paint the Night parade, World of Color - Celebrate! The Wonderful World of Walt Disney, and the Disneyland Forever fireworks show. 

The celebration continued on July 17, 2015, which marked the official 60th Birthday and the opening of Disneyland.  The Diamond Celebrations will continue into 2016, so check out Disneyland and celebrate 60 wonderful years.

Details on Shanghai Disneyland Revealed:

In July, Disney Parks Chairman and CEO Bob Iger along with Disney Parks & Resorts Chairman Bob Chapek revealed details on Shanghai Disneyland, which will be opening in 2016. It will be the first Disney theme park on the mainland of China and will have six themed lands with innovative attractions and immersive entertainment designed especially for Chinese guests. 

The park will feature two new hotels: the Art-Nouveau inspired Shanghai Disneyland Hotel and the Toy Story Hotel. It will feature six themed land including for the first time ever in a Disney theme park no Main Street instead it will be called Mickey Avenue. The other themed lands include Adventure Isle, Gardens of Imagination, Tomorrowland, Treasure Cove, and Fantasyland. 

New attractions coming to Shanghai Disneyland include: TRON Lightcycle Power Run, Roaring Rapids, Pirates of the Caribbean - Battle for the Sunken Treasure, Soarin' Over the Horizon, and so much more. For more details on Shanghai Disneyland check out the blog from July here. 

Changes in Disney Power:

Back in February, Disney Chairman and CEO Bob Iger made a decision for the future of the company. It was long said that whoever Iger chose to be COO, would be the sure bet to take over the Walt Disney Company when he eventually steps down. Iger chose Tom Staggs, former Parks & Resorts Chairman over CFO Jay Rasulo. Rasulo eventually stepped down in June and was replaced by Christine M. McCarthy. Kevin Mayer was promoted to Chief Strategy Officer. Bob Chapek was named Walt Disney Parks & Resorts chairman.

Goodbye Sorcerer's Hat and So Much More:

2015 was year where we said goodbye to many things at Walt Disney World and in 2016 we will say goodbye to more. It began early with the removal of the Sorcerer's Hat at Hollywood Studios. We said goodbye to the Magic of Disney Animation and saw the final performance from Mulch, Sweat, and Shears. 

2015 was also the final year for Star Wars Weekends. As Hollywood Studios goes under its transformation, Disney said Star Wars will be part of the park year round so there would be no need for Star Wars Weekends. Finally, in just a few days we will say our final goodbye's to the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights. After 20 years, the lights will be shut off for the final time on January 3, 2016 wrapping up many Disney fans favorite part of the holidays at the parks. 

"Star Wars: The Force Awakens Lights Up the Box Office in Disney's Most Successful Year Ever:

Finally, what a year it has been for Disney at the box office. It all began with the live-action remake of "Cinderella" in March. Then we had "Tomorrowland" in May, although it wasn't very successful at the box office, it was still a very good movie. In June, Pixar had the hit of the summer with "Inside Out" that film still gets me every time I see it. Pixar wasn't done however because for the first time ever two Pixar films were released in a year. On Thanksgiving, "The Good Dinosaur" was released and it was just as good as "Inside Out" bringing may theater goers to tears of the friendship between Arlo and Spot. 

All those films for the blockbuster that just keeps breaking records and is already the 8th most profitable film in history. "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" has currently made 1.293 Billion at the box office and will still be climbing into the new year. The force has certainly awakened and Star Wars is back. Fans can't be any happier as some have seen the film multiple times already. Will "The Force Awakens" become the top film ever? I guess we will find out in 2016. 

Happy New Year and let's make 2016 even better than 2015. 

Thank You for Everything, John.