9 Academy Award Nominations for Disney; Marvel Day at Sea Expands Aboard Disney Cruise Line

9 Academy Award Nominations for Disney:

"Zootopia" already took the Golden Globe, will it take the Oscar?

2016 was the Walt Disney Company's most successful year at the box office and it proved that today with 9 Academy Award Nominations leading the way were Walt Disney Animation's "Moana" and LucasFilm's "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" with 2 each. "Zootopia" along with "Moana" were both nominated for Best Animated Feature. Here is list of nominations:

• Best Documentary - "OJ - Made in America", ESPN
• Sound Mixing - "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story", LucasFilm
• Visual Effects - "Doctor Strange"- Marvel, "The Jungle Book" - Walt Disney Studios, and "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" - LucasFilm
• Original Song - "How Far I'll Go" - Disney's "Moana" Music & Lyric by Lin-Manuel Miranda
• Best Animated Feature - "Zootopia" - Walt Disney Animation and "Moana" - Walt Disney Animation
• Best Animated Short Film - "Piper" - Pixar

"Zootopia" just a few weeks ago already secured Best Animated Feature at the Golden Globes. The 89th Annual Academy Awards airs on February 26th on ABC hosted this year by Jimmy Kimmel. 

Marvel Day at Sea Expands Aboard Disney Cruise Line:

The Marvel Universe is expanding its way into 2018 aboard the Disney Cruise Line. The event aboard the Disney Magic. The events kick off with 7 special sailings in the Fall later this year from New York. In 2018 from January through April from Miami, guests will be able to enjoy one magical day with their favorite Marvel characters. Here are the details from the Disney Parks Blog:

We also unveiled new experiences in the lineup of immersive entertainment. The event features exclusive character interactions, including the debut of Black Panther and Loki as part of a Disney vacation experience. Marvel Day at Sea also marks the first official appearance of Iron Man on a Disney Cruise Line ship. 

In the Walt Disney Theatre, a spell-binding new show featuring Doctor Strange will keep families on the edge of their seats. Doctor Strange will showcase his journey from doubter to practitioner as he demonstrates the power of the mystic arts. The show concludes with an epic battle where guests must help Doctor Strange against the Dark Dimension. 

Occurring on one action-packed day during each of the special Disney Magic sailings, Marvel Day at Sea transports guests to a new realm of possibilities when the Marvel Universe assembles on the ship. The event features all-day entertainment including interactions with some of the mightiest Marvel Super Heroes and the menacing foes who oppose them, an extraordinary deck party, Marvel-themed youth activities, special merchandise and unique food and beverage offerings. 

Also featured are exclusive at-sea screenings of fan-favorite films from the Marvel Cinematic Universe including the newest theatrical releases, as well as viewings of the Disney XD shows: Marvel’s Avengers Assemble, Marvel’s Ultimate Spider-Man and Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy.

The 2017 Marvel Day at Sea dates with sailings from New York are October 6, 14, and 28, November 4, 11, and 18. These sailings include a stop at Castaway Cay, the Bahamas, Port Canaveral, and a day Walt Disney World for 7 and 8-night sailings. There will also one more date on October 21 sailing from New York to Halifax, Charlottetown, and Sydney, Canada for a 7-night cruise. 

In 2018, Marvel Day at Sea will set sail from the port of Miami for 5-night cruises. These will take place on January 7 and 21, February 4 and 18, March 18, and April 1, 15, and 29. These sailings will take you to Castaway Cay and either Cozumel, Mexico or the Grand Cayman. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

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.

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

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

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

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

Finding Dory

-Best Animated Feature

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

-Storyboarding in an Animated Feature Production

Moana
-Best Animated Feature

-Animated Effects in an Animated Production

-Character Design in an Animated Feature Production

-Storyboarding in an Animated Feature Production

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

–Editorial in an Animated Feature Production

Zootopia

-Best Animated Feature

-Animated Effects in an Animated Production

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

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

-Character Design in an Animated Feature Production

-Directing in an Animated Feature Production

-Production Design in an Animated Feature Production

-Storyboarding in an Animated Feature Production

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

-Writing in an Animated Feature Production

–Editorial in an Animated Feature Production

Piper

-Best Animated Short Subject

BFG

-Animated Effects in a Live Action Production

Doctor Strange

-Animated Effects in a Live Action Production

The Jungle Book

-Character animation in a Live Action Production

-Character animation in a Live Action Production

Captain America: Civil War

-Character animation in a Live Action Production

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

-Voice Acting in an Animated Television/Broadcast Production

-Music in an Animated Television/Broadcast Production

Gravity Falls

-Editorial in an Animated Television/Broadcast Production

-Writing in an Animated Television/Broadcast Production

Elena of Avalor

-Best Animated Television/Broadcast Production for Children

Milo Murphy’s Law

-Storyboarding in an Animated Television/Broadcast Production

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

-Music in an Animated Television/Broadcast Production

-Editorial in an Animated Television/Broadcast Production

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

Rivers of Light Cast Member Preview:

Picture Courtesy of Walt Disney Company

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

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

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

Finding Dory, New Parade, & More Coming to Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea; Stitch's Great Escape Going to Seasonal Operation

Finding Dory, New Parade, & More Coming to Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea:

Tokyo Disneyland was already getting some exciting new attractions with the announcement of the Big Hero 6 and Beauty and the Beast inspired attractions that were announced earlier this year. Today, even more details were revealed as more of our favorite characters will be heading over to the Japanese Disney Parks.

First off during Spring 2017, a new Easter-themed parade starring Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde from Disney's "Zootopia" in Tokyo Disneyland. At Tokyo DisneySea the entire park will be "festooned with colorful springtime decorations. Mickey and his friends will also be dressed in their Easter finery.

Photo Credit: Disney/Pixar

Also in the Spring in the Port Discovery area of Tokyo DisneySea, a brand new attraction called Nemo & Friends SeaRider will open. The new attraction will "immerse guests into the underwater world of the popular stories by using a ride system that will seamlessly blend glorious new visuals with a dynamic motion-base system." The storyline will find guests boarding a submersible that will shrink you to the size of a fish.

"Also opening in the spring of 2017 at Tokyo DisneySea is the “renewed” Turtle Talk, where Dory and Squirt join Crush while additional characters like Destiny the whale shark and Hank the octopus will stop by. Nemo & Friends SeaRider sounds incredible and the updated Turtle Talk, which has already hit the domestic Disney Parks, is a hoot that Tokyo DisneySea guests will surely adore as much as we do." 

In the Summer, a "Special Event at Tokyo DisneySea" will be themed to the new movie releasing next year, "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales" and the the Pirates film series. It will be located in the Mediterranean Harbor area of the park. Guests will enjoy the show on the harbor featuring the likes of Captain Jack Sparrow, pirates, and tons of splashing water, as well as atmosphere entertainment presented by a crew of pirates. Special merchandise, menu items, and decorations inspired by the event will transform the park into a Pirates of the Caribbean world. Specially themed decor and entertainment will also transform Tokyo Disneyland.

Finally coming July 11, 2017, will be the renewed version of the Tokyo Disneyland Electrical Parade Dreamlights. For the first time ever a brand new icy castle float featuring Anna and Elsa from Disney's "Frozen" will join the parade. Cinderella will have two brand new floats one featuring her pumpkin coach and the other will showcase the grand ballroom featuring Prince Charming. Returning will be the "Beauty and the Beast" float that has been absent from the parade since 2011. The new version will have enhanced LED lighting and will bring even more color to the park at night. 

Stitch's Great Escape Moving to Season Operation, Is this the End for the Attraction?:

Beginning October 2, Stitch's Great Escape will be moving to seasonal operation in Tomorrowland of the Magic Kingdom. The attraction will then be opened as attendance demands moving forward. Here are the hours of operation going forward into January 2017:

• October 2 through November 18 – CLOSED
• November 19 through November 26 – OPEN
• November 27 through December 16 – CLOSED
• December 17 through January 2 – OPEN
• After January 2 – CLOSED

The attraction which has never really gained popularity with guests could be seeing the end of the road very soon. It has recently been rumored that a brand new Wreck-It-Ralph attraction featuring Sugar Rush would be taking its place. Stay tuned for more developments on this story. 

First Photos Released from Live Action "Beauty and the Beast"; New Clawhauser Sorcerers Card Released for MNSSHP

First Photos Released from Live Action "Beauty and the Beast":

Today, we got our first look at some stills from the live action remake of "Beauty and the Beast." This includes our first look at Ewan McGregor as Lumiere and Ian McKellen as Cogsworth. For reference we got a look at the animated versions of the characters with the live action characters below.

The next photo is the scene from Gaston's Tavern with Luke Evans as Gaston and Josh Gad as Le Fou. It's almost as if they took the scene right out of the animated film.

The live action remake of "Beauty and the Beast" will hit theaters March 17, 2017.

New Clawhauser Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom Released for Not-So-Scary:

This year's new Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom card being released during Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party will feature Clawhauser from Disney's "Zootopia." The card will be released during next Friday, September 2, for the first Halloween party of the season at Magic Kingdom. The card is called, "Clawhauser's Tricky Treat."

Here is info on the new card from the Disney Parks Blog:

Why Clawhauser? Because he loves sweets, particularly donuts! On Halloween he enjoys sharing the delicious, ring-shaped delights with the trick-or-treaters who come to his door. Merlin the Magician was so impressed with the cheetah’s generosity, that he created a spell in his honor, “Clawhauser’s Tricky Treat.” When a sorcerer casts this spell, dozens of magical donuts appear! But spell-casters must be wary: careless use might result in an explosion of rainbow sprinkles!

The special event card will be distributed separately in addition to regular cards for the game at the Firehouse on Main Street, USA. Guests must register to play the game with their party ticket and event wristband to receive "Clawhauser's Tricky Treat."

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Disney Hits Box Office Milestone in Record Time; The Polite Pig Opening in Disney Springs in Spring 2017

Disney Hits Box Office Milestone in Record Time:

Disney hit the $2 Billion mark at the domestic box office in the quickest time ever on Saturday. This isn't the only milestone as it hit the $5 billion globally on July 6, doing so faster than in 2015 when it didn't hit that mark until December 20. Disney films have already hit $3 billion internationally.

This is after its latest hit Pixar's "Finding Dory" has already hit $724 million globally ($445 million domestically) with it not even opening in some major markets such as the UK, Italy, and Germany. Other films helping Disney at the box office include: Marvel's "Captain America: Civil War" ($1.15 billion #1 at the box office this year), #2 in Disney's "Zootopia" ($1.02 billion), and Disney's "The Jungle Book" ($938 million). These take four of the top five films domestically and four of the top six films globally released in 2016.

Those don't include Lucasfilm's "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" which took in $737 million in 2016 of its total $2.07 billion in the calendar year. All five films take a rating of 90% or higher on Rotten Tomotoes.

Disney is set to release several films for the rest of the year these include: Disney's Pete's Dragon (August 12), Queen of Katwe (September), Marvel's Doctor Strange (November 4), Disney Animation's Moana (November 23), and Lucasfilm's Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (December 16). 

The Polite Pig Opening in Disney Springs in Spring 2017:

The Polite Pig Restaurant will be opening in Town Center of Disney Springs in Spring 2017. The restaurant which has a sister restaurant, The Ravenous Pig, in Winter Springs, FL will bring a variety of wood-fired smoked and grilled items as well as an innovative beverage program that serves all drinks on tap, this includes locally-brewed Cask & Larder beer, wine, and cocktails. 

Here is more info on the owners and details on The Polite Pig released on the Disney Parks Blog:

"Owners and James Beard award nominees James and Julie Petrakis are partnering with James’ brother (who operates another popular Orlando-area eatery, Greens & Grille) to open the new restaurant, located in the Town Center neighborhood of Disney Springs. The 5,000-square-foot venue will be open daily for lunch and dinner, with seating for about 200 guests.
“As a locally-based restaurant group, it’s great to bring our new concept to Disney Springs where we’ll have the opportunity to showcase genuine Florida cuisine for guests from around the world,” James Petrakis said. “With so many talented chefs opening new restaurants at Disney Springs, we’re really excited to be part of a group helping Central Florida distinguish itself as a world-class culinary destination.”

Tune in for more information like an opening date for The Polite Pig in the future right here on It All Started With a Mouse.

Enjoy your Monday evening everyone. - John

New DVC Member Lounge Opens at Epcot; "Zootopia" Crosses the $1 Billion Mark at Global Box Office

New Disney Vacation Club Member Lounge Opens at Epcot:

Many months ago when all the details on the celebration of the Disney Vacation Club's 25th Anniversary were announced, members were excited for the exclusive member lounge opening in Epcot. After months of work, today the new Member Lounge inside Epcot's Imagination pavilion opened. The lounge will be open daily from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.

Members will be to enter the lounge up a staircase or up the glass elevator in the ImageWorks merchandise location of the pavilion. Here guests will enter into one of the Imagination Pavilion's towering glass pyramids and sunshine-filled room with amazing views of Epcot.

In the lounge members can take a break from the parks, recharge their mobile devices, enjoy complimentary beverages (including Coca-Cola freestyle machines), Wi-Fi, computer stations, a printer, and mounted tablets where guests can access many of their favorite Disney websites. Have no fear parents there's a play area for your kids too where they can test their video game skill with Disney Infinity or watch some of the latest Disney animated shorts.

While the kids are playing, parents can speak with Member Services Advisers who are available daily to assist with dining reservations, future resort stays, and more. On the weekdays, an RCI Advisor will be available to help DVC members navigate exchange options for future vacations. Here are some pictures Disney released of the new member lounge:

"Zootopia" Crosses the $1 Billion Mark at Global Box Office:

Over the weekend, "Zootopia" became Disney's second film of the year to cross over the $1 Billion mark at the global box office. The film which has been a huge success since its March 4th release in theaters will be released to Blu-Ray/DVD tomorrow, June 7 in the US. Here is the press release from Disney:

“Zootopia” Crosses $1 Billion Worldwide

 Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Zootopia crossed the $1 billion dollar mark yesterday, becoming Disney’s second billion-dollar release of 2016 and its 11th ever. Worldwide, it’s the No. 1 animated film of the year and just the fourth animated film ever to cross the $1 billion threshold. It’s also one of the biggest original films of all time. Among Disney Animation releases, it ranks No. 2 globally behind only Frozen. 
As of June 5, Zootopia has grossed $337.2M domestically and $663.5M internationally for a global total of $1,000.7M. With a resounding 98 percent Fresh RottenTomatoes score, Zootopia has been universally embraced by audiences. It earned an A CinemaScore from domestic audiences and spent three weeks at No. 1 following its $75 million debut – the highest ever three-day opening for Disney Animation and the biggest animated opening ever in the month of March. It remained in the top 10 domestically for 13 weeks. In China, Zootopia is the highest grossing animated film of all time and Disney’s biggest release ever there, while in Russia it is the second biggest industry release ever behind only Avatar. 
Zootopia is the latest in a string of major critical and commercial successes from Walt Disney Animation Studios, beginning in 2010 with Tangled ($594M) and including Wreck-It Ralph ($478M), Big Hero 6 ($658M), and of course 2013’s Frozen ($1.277B). These five films boast average RottenTomatoes scores of 91 percent and have brought in $4 billion in combined global box office.
Zootopia was released theatrically in the US/Canada on March 4 and is due out on Blu-ray, DVD, and Digital on June 7.

This is one film I never got to see in theaters and I can't wait to own it on Blu-Ray so no spoilers please, lol.

Disney's Next Short "Inner Workings" to Play Before "Moana"; PhotoPass Debuts Zootopia Magic Shot at Disney World

Disney's Next Short "Inner Workings to Play Before "Moana":

Disney's next animated short will be called "Inner Workings" and will debut at the Annecy International Animation Festival in France in June. The short will then appear before Disney's next animated film, "Moana", when it hits theaters November 23, 2016. 

The Annecy International Animation Festival is one of the most prestigious and well-regarded animation festival's in the world. Disney has premiered its shorts' many times before including most recently in 2013 with its short, "Get a Horse." "Inner Workings" will be directed by Leo Matsuda, a story artist for Big Hero 6 and Wreck-It-Ralph, and produced by Sean Lurie. The short is "the story of the internal struggle between a man's Brain-a pragmatic protector who calculates his every move, and his Heart- a free-spirited adventurer who wants to let loose." 

The film pays homage to Disney's animated classics of the past like 1943 wartime short "Reason and Emotion" and the Cranium Command, the 17-minute long short that appeared in Epcot's Wonders of Life pavilion between 1998-2007, with an entirely new spin. 

"Moana" will also be previewed in work-in-progress sequences during the Annecy International Festival on "June 17.

PhotoPass Debuts Zootopia Animated Magic Shot at Disney World:

Disney's PhotoPass just got furrier and funnier as they give guests the opportunity join in on the fun in Zootopia with Nick Wilde when the visit Disney World. You can get a animated magic show when guests get their picture taken by PhotoPass photographer at the Magic Kingdom entrance or on Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood Studios.

All guests will be able to view the animated magic shots in their accounts before they expire. Guests must have an active Memory Maker or Memory Maker One Day entitlement to download and share them online.

Are These the Dates for Mickey's Not-So Scary?; "Zootopia" Wins the Box Office Again, and More

Are These the Dates for Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party?:

Did Disney release the dates for Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party without an announcement? If you you look at the calendar of operating hours for Magic Kingdom in September and October, you could almost guarantee which days the party will occur at the park with the park closing at 7 p.m. for the party. While there has been no announcement as of yet, last year Disney made the announcement on the dates in February for both Mickey's Not-So-Scary and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, one would assume that we will be hearing soon.

The begin date is earlier this year as the first date for the party tentatively is September 2. It ran until November 1 last year, but that was mostly because Halloween was on the weekend. One would think if they are starting earlier this year and with Halloween on a Monday the last party could be very well on Halloween itself. November's operating hours have not yet been released. Here are the tentative dates for this year's Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party:

September: 2, 8, 11, 13, 16, 18, 20, 23, 25, 29, and 30.

October: 2, 4, 6, 7, 10, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 21, 23, 25, 27, 28, 30, and 31. 

Last year's party ran for 25 nights, if you count out this year's without the possible one in November there are 29 nights for the party. These dates are of course not set in stone and we wait for Disney on the official announcement. Stay tuned.

"Zootopia" Wins the Box Office Again:

"Zootopia" is clearly a hit and Disney once again has done it again as the film won the box office for the third weekend in a row. The film took in $38 million in its third weekend in US theaters putting it over $200 million domestically and $500 million globally. The film beat out the opening release of "Allegiant" which is the third film in the "Divergent" series which only took in $29 million. 

The question is now will "Zootopia" reach Disney's last animated hit in "Frozen"? It will be a tough task next week as the film will be facing the opening of one of the big super hero films of the year in, "Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice." You can expect the film to do just fine though in the coming weeks still as it is a clear hit with both the critics and people who have seen the film. I haven't seen the film yet, I'm hoping within the next week or two even with the release of "The Jungle Book" in less than a month.

No Disney 24-Hour Party This Year?

While this isn't confirmed, it is odd that we have not heard an announcement for a 24-hour party at Disney World and Disneyland yet. Speculation the last few days has been there won't be any party this year. A disappointment as it has been quite popular in Disney World over the last 4 years. Although, it didn't quite fit at Disneyland as guests were shut out several times during the parties especially last year during the beginning of the 60th Anniversary celebration. 

We will wait to see if the 24-hour parties are officially over at Disney theme parks or just on hiatus. Will you be disappointed if there is no 24-hour party this year?

New Details & Casting Revealed for "Tangled" TV Series, Team Iron Man Posters Released, and More

New Details & Casting Revealed for "Tangled" TV Series:

Today, Disney released new details as well as the cast for their future television series on Disney Channel for the reprise of "Tangled" in, "Tangled: Before Ever After." The gorgeous first image was released (pictured above) provided by Claire Keane, daughter of Disney Legend Glen Keane, who consulted and did design work for the television series. The series will utilize a traditional 2D animation. 

We already knew that Mandy Moore, Zachary Levi, Jeffrey Tambor, Paul F. Tompkins, and M.C. Gainey will all be reprising their roles for the television series. Here is who else is joining the cast for the show that will hit the Disney Channel in 2017 as provided by Disney:

"Joining these returning favorites are Ashley Judd as Rapunzel’s mother Queen Arianna; Broadway star Eden Espinosa as Rapunzel’s handmaiden and confidant, Cassandra; comedian Jeff Ross as Hook Hand’s brother Hook Foot; Richard Kind as Uncle Monty; Sean Hayes, as Pete the Guard; Peter MacNicol as Nigel the Advisor; Clancy Brown as Rapunzel’s father King Frederic; Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje as blacksmith Xavier; Diedrich Bader as Stan the Guard; Charles Halford as Pub Thug Vladimir; Steve Blum as Pub Thug Attila Buckethead; James Monroe Iglehart as Eugene’s friend Lance Strongbow; Jeremy Jordan as teen alchemist Varian; and Jonathan Banks as Quirin, Varian’s father. That’s right: get ready for brand new pub thugs."

It certainly is an exciting cast of stars for the show the will take place in between the hit film (2010) and the animated short "Tangled: Ever After" in 2012.

Team Iron Man Posters Released for "Captain America: Civl War":

Yesterday, we saw the posters released for Team Captain America. Today, Disney and Marvel released the posters for Team Iron Man. The posters once again say, "Divided We Fall." They feature Iron Man, Black Panther, Black Widow, Vision, and War Machine. Check them out:

Notes from Bob Iger's Q & A at Deutsche Bank 2016 Media, Internet, & Telecom Conference:

Bob Iger today did a Q & A at the Deutsche Bank 2016 Media, Internet, & Telecom Conference. Here are some highlights:

• Iger said upcoming Han Solo film will also highlight Chewbacca's back story in 2018.
• "Rogue One" will be marketed differently then "The Force Awakens" to help the audience figure out where it fits in the Star Wars franchise.
• Commented that Shanghai Disneyland is 90% completed as it is 100 days away from opening. Also highlighted the the new park will have its own branded subway station. 
• More Shanghai Disneyland: 330 million income qualified guests are a 3.5 hour distance from the park. 
• Disney took about a $75 million dollar loss on "The Finest Hours" which failed to find an audience.
• He also talked about the early success on "Zootopia" and how it was based on the acquisition of Pixar 10 years ago. 

"Zootopia" Smashes Disney Record on Opening Weekend; Purple MagicBands Are Now on My Disney Experience

"Zootopia" Smashes Record on Opening Weekend at the Box Office:

Disney seems to have another animated hit on it's hands with "Zootopia" smashing a record for a Disney animated film on opening weekend previously held by "Frozen." Disney's "Zootopia" opened in theaters on Friday in 3,827 locations and debuted to a record $73.7 million over the total weekend.

It was also the fourth-largest March opening at the Box Office ever. The previous record for a Disney Animated movie was held by "Frozen" which made $67.4 million in its opening weekend. Overseas, "Zootopia" has already been playing for three weeks and raked in an additional $63.4 million to its total globally, which now stands at $235.5 million.

"Zootopia" has potential to be a big hit as next family film won't be until April when Disney releases it's next live-action remake in "The Jungle Book." That film doesn't hit theaters until April 15. Disney's distribution chief Dave Hollis said, "There's an absence of competition. We are set up to have a big, big run."

While I have not yet seen "Zootopia" it is on the schedule and after the glowing reviews its received, (98% on Rotten Tomatoes currently) I can't wait to see this Disney animated hit. Look for a review on Disney's Zootopia coming soon on the blog.

Purple MagicBands are Now on My Disney Experience:

Attention Attention! We have a Code Purple. Yes, the Purple MagicBand is now available on My Disney Experience. Guests when choosing the color of their MagicBands will now have the choice of  purple. No other colors have been added. Red, orange, yellow, green, pink, blue, and grey are all still available.

The Purple MagicBand has been probably the most talked about color not on the list since the release of MagicBands. Now when you are booking your trip, you will be able to customize your MagicBand to purple.

Nick Wilde and Judy Hopps are Coming to Disney Parks; Baymax is Coming to Disney XD for Big Hero 6 TV Show

Nick Wilde and Judy Hopps are Coming to Disney Parks:

Disney's "Zootopia" will hit theaters this Friday, March 4th but two of the well-known characters will soon be on their way to Disney Parks. Nick Wilde and Judy Hopps will be coming to both Disney World and Disney California Adventure. 

At Disney California Adventure, Nick and Judy will be found on Hollywood Boulevard. At Magic Kingdom in Disney World, the party animals will be joining other characters in the "Move It! Shake It! Dance & Play It" Street Party. 

"Zootopia" brings rookie rabbit Police Officer Judy Hopps as she is forced to team up with the fast-talking con-artist fox Nick Wilde as they try to crack a mysterious case affecting the citizens of Zootopia. The film will hit theaters in 3D this Friday.

Baymax is Coming to Disney XD for Big Hero 6 TV Show:

Baymax is coming to television near you in 2017. Today, news broke out the lovable character will be  coming to Disney XD in the animated television series of "Big Hero 6." This is what Disney released this morning:

"Here’s what we know so far: The series picks up immediately following the events in the film. Hiro is the newest prodigy at San Fransokyo Institute of Technology, and he faces daunting academic challenges …. not to mention the social trials of being the little man on campus. Off campus, the stakes are raised for Big Hero 6 as they must protect their city from an array of scientifically enhanced villains."

While we don't know any details of the villains they will face, the whole gang is definitely back in Hiro, Wasabi, Honey Lemon, Fred, Go Go, and of course Baymax. Of course this deserves a major fist bump, BA LA LA LA.

Mickey's Soundsational Parade Live Stream Tomorrow; Disney Parks Blog Holding "Zootopia" Viewing Sunday

Mickey's Soundsational Parade Live Stream Tomorrow:

We learned that the Disney Parks Blog would be going to California for its next live stream after its live stream of Fantasmic! earlier this month. Tomorrow at 4:20 p.m. PST, the Disney Parks Blog will be live streaming Mickey's Soundsational Parade live from Disneyland.

The Disney Parks Blog is encourage users to comment on the live stream what their favorite float from the parade is and why. They could even read the comment live during the broadcast of the parade. Again the parade will be live streamed at 4:20 p.m. PST and that would be 7:20 p.m. EST for us East coasters.

Disney Parks Blog Holding "Zootopia" Viewing This Saturday at Disney World:

Today, the Disney Parks Blog announced that they will be holding a viewing of Disney's "Zootopia" at AMC Disney Springs 24 on this Sunday, February 28. The event has sold out but for those who did get their invitation, here is what you need to know for Sunday.

• All attendees who sign up for the meet-up must be 18 years or older, but guests do not need to be 18 or older.
• Disney’s “Zootopia” is rated PG and presented in RealD 3D.
• Limit one guest per registrant.
• We will send an email to individuals whose valid RSVPs are received by us via email before we reach the planned capacity to confirm their attendance for the meet-up.
• If confirmed, it will be necessary for the registrant and guest to check in across from AMC Disney Springs 24 West Side for access to the event. The confirmation will include those details.
• Valid photo I.D. will be required at check-in.
• Meet-up confirmations are non-transferrable and have no cash value.
• Confirmation will be for the accepted registered person and guest.
• If you do not receive an email from us confirming your reservation, then your RSVP was not accepted.
• The meet-up is subject to change or cancellation without notice.

This post will be updated after capacity has been reached.

And here is other important information to know:

• This is a pre-release screening of the movie. Captioning, descriptive video and assisted listening devices will not be available.
• Please 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.
• NO RECORDING. The screening will be monitored for unauthorized recording. By attending, you agree not to use any video or audio recording devices (including, without limitation, cameras and phones) in the venue. If you attempt to use a recording device during this screening, you consent to your immediate removal from the venue and forfeiture of your recording device and its contents. Any attempted unauthorized recording will be reported to law enforcement and may subject you to criminal and civil liability. We reserve the right to pursue any and all available remedies at law and in equity for any unauthorized recording and/or copyright infringement, including without limitation statutory damages of up to $150,000 per violation, and nothing contained in this notice shall be construed to limit our available remedies and/or legal recourse. You assume all risks of personal injury arising from or incidental to attending the screening, whether occurring prior to, during, or after the event. Further, by attending you grant permission to WDSMP (and Disney Destinations, LLC), its licensees, licensors, affiliates and agents, to record and utilize your name, voice and likeness to publicize the screening and promote the movie.

Disney's "Zootopia" hits theaters in less than two weeks on March 4, 2016. 

New Adventures by Disney Explores America Including VIP Disney World Tour; Kristen Bell to Voice Sloth in Zootopia

New Adventures by Disney Explores America Including VIP Disney World Tour:

Adventures by Disney announced three new United States vacations including a VIP experience of behind the scenes magic at Disney World through Central Florida, Montana, and Washington D.C & Philadelphia. They want you to explore America with these three weeklong vacations and each is filled with activities unique to the destination.

During the Central Florida adventure you will enjoy backstage access and VIP experiences at Disney World theme parks and experience the best of the Florida outdoors. You will get a behind the scenes look at the all new Rivers of Light nighttime experience at Animal Kingdom and take part in a one-of-a-kind experience with Disney Imagineers. To experience the best of Florida outdoors you will explore Central Florida's unique natural wonders on land - by zipline, swamp buggy and on horseback or by water in kayaks or aboard an airboat.

The Montana adventure you will take part in glamorous camping or "glamping" as you get in touch with nature while exploring Yellowstone National Park. You'll also get hands-on at an authentic Dude ranch in Big Sky. Experience family fun activities such as horseback riding, whitewater rafting, fly-fishing, and a private riverside cookout.

In Washington D.C. and Philadelphia, you will be guided by master storytellers and encounter characters from the past as they help make history come alive in a fun, interactive way. You will immerse yourselves in adventures at some of America's most iconic landmarks. These are paired with fun educational activities such as a fun-filled scavenger hunt through a 19th century mansion, hands-on experiences at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, a cruise down the Potomac River, and more.

For more information as well as full itinerary details, visit AdventuresbyDisney.com.

Kristen Bell to Voice Sloth in Disney's Zootopia:

We all know how Kristen Bell loves sloths so it only makes sense now that she would be voicing one in Disney Animation's upcoming film "Zootopia." A dream has literally come true for Bell who will voice Priscilla the sloth in the upcoming film due to be released March 4, 2016. After voicing Anna in "Frozen," Walt Disney Animation invited her to voice a sloth in the film. Today, she announced via Twitter that she was in the movie, a little secret no one knew until now.

Check this off my bucket list: I play a SLOTH in @Disney’s #Zootopia!!! https://t.co/LMKWtKlGWV 

— Kristen Bell (@IMKristenBell) February 16, 2016

Bell joins an all-star cast including ABC's Once Upon a Time star Ginnifer Goodwin (voices Judy Hopps) and Jason Bateman (voices Nick Wilde). The film is less than 3 weeks away from hitting theaters on March 4th. 

Two New Clips from Disney's "Zootopia"; Han Solo Standalone Film Confirmed for May 2018

Two New Clips from Disney's "Zootopia":

Between yesterday and today, Disney released two new clips from its upcoming film Zootopia which is due out in theaters next month, March 4th. The first clip features a closer look at Officer Clawhauser (Nate Torrence), a cheetah in the force who has a love for donuts. Personally, after seeing the clip he may be one of my favorite characters from the new film. The clip shows Officer Clawhauser and meeting Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin) for the first time.

Officer Clawhauser reporting for duty (and snacking)! See @DisneyZootopia in theatres March 4. 🍩https://t.co/MAu0Qa3ssu

— Disney (@Disney) February 10, 2016

The next clip which was just released shows Judy Hopps getting into police bunny action as she chases down a criminal. Check the new clip out:

It's the bunny cop film you've been waiting for. See @DisneyZootopia March 4.https://t.co/T8NSPbCJ85

— Disney (@Disney) February 10, 2016

Han Solo Standalone Film Confirmed for May 2018:

Well we now know that the Han Solo standalone film of the "Star Wars Anthology films" will be released in May 2018 as Disney CEO Bob Iger confirmed during the quarterly earnings call. The film is already in pre-production. The first of the anthology films, "Rogue One," will be released later this year in December. 

Of course, we all know that May 2018 could be changed but we do know its a good thing its already in pre-production. That wasn't the only Star Wars news heard in the earnings call. Great news is Star Wars "Episode VIII" has begun filming. We already know that was delayed until December of 2017. 

Disney Announces Third Year of Startup Accelerator Program, Full Line-up of Celebrities for Disneyland 60, and More

Disney Announces Third Year of Startup Accelerator Program:

Today, the Walt Disney Company announced that it is now accepting applications for Disney Accelerator program for its third year. The program has brought us companies such as Sphero, Naritiv, Emotiv, and Stat Muse. Here is the full press release and details on Disney Accelerator:

The Walt Disney Company Announces Third Year of Startup Accelerator Program

The Walt Disney Company announced today that it is accepting applications for its third Disney Accelerator, a program designed to accelerate the growth of startup companies from around the world. Ten exceptional startup companies will be selected for a three-month mentorship and investment program that will immerse them in the media and entertainment business. The program begins this summer and concludes with a Demo Day in October 2016. Applications are due April 10, 2016.

“The past two years of the Disney Accelerator have led to incredible innovation and success between The Walt Disney Company and our participating startups, helping to establish the Disney Accelerator as the premier media and entertainment accelerator,” said Kevin Mayer, Chief Strategy Officer of The Walt Disney Company. “We look forward to further shaping the future of our industry through this unique program.”

The Los Angeles-based program is open to both early and venture-backed technology startups with a vision for making an impact on the future of media and entertainment. The Disney Accelerator provides participating companies investment capital, access to co-working space at Disney’s creative campus and mentor support and guidance from top Disney executives, entrepreneurs, investors and other notable business leaders from the entertainment and technology communities.

Since the Disney Accelerator started in 2014, companies from across the United States, Europe and Asia have participated in building the future of media and entertainment with technologies as diverse as robotics, artificial intelligence, wearables, messaging and virtual reality, for example:

— Sphero, based in Boulder, Colorado, joined the Disney Accelerator in 2014 and developed the successful BB-8 droid in collaboration with Lucasfilm during the program. Sphero’s BB-8 sold out the day it was released and was dubbed the ‘Best Star Wars Toy Ever’ by Forbes. Since completing the program, Sphero raised an additional $45 million in venture capital, bringing their total financing to $80 million.

— Los Angeles based Naritiv, the first media company born on Snapchat, was created during the 2014 Disney Accelerator, and recently secured $3 million in Series A funding. Naritiv’s total network on Snapchat currently generates more than 16 billion views per month and has delivered more than one billion total branded views to date.

— EMOTIV, a 2015 Disney Accelerator company, is the developer of the Insight wireless headset, which measures brain fitness and emotions. EMOTIV’s Insight was recently featured on ABC Television’s ‘The Bachelor.’ With offices in Australia, Vietnam and San Francisco, EMOTIV has sold hardware and software to 70,000 developers and researchers in 120 countries and has already built a profitable business.

— ​StatMuse entered the Disney Accelerator in 2015 as a three-person team and launched a public beta of its interactive sports stats platform powered by natural language search on Demo Day. Now a team of 12, StatMuse is currently providing ESPN with statistical content for the NBA season and closed $10 million in Series A financing in January 2016.

For more information and to apply go to DisneyAccelerator.com.

Full Line-Up of Celebrities for Disneyland 60 Special on ABC:

Last night, the final line-up of stars that will appear during the The Wonderful World of Disney: Disneyland 60 special that will air on February 21 from 8-10 p.m. on ABC. The show had previously announced that it will be hosted by Master of Ceremonies, Derek Hough. Other appearances that were previously announced were Harrison Ford, Sir Elton John, Josh Gad, Tori Kelly and Kermit the Frog, Jessie J, Kelsey Ballerini, Witney Carson, Maddie Ziegler, Pentatonix, and the Los Angeles Philharmonic conducted by music and artistic director Gustavo Dudamel.

Here is the remaining list of stars:

• Alfonso Ribeiro
• Ariel Winter
• Bryce Dallas Howard
• Eric Stonestreet
• Ginnifer Goodwin
• Dame Helen Mirren
• Hilary Duff
• Jason Bateman
• Jessica Alba
• Jimmy Kimmel
• John Stamos
• Julie Bowen
• Kerry Washington
• Kiefer Sutherland
• Kristen Bell
• Lupita Nyong'o
• Neil Patrick Harris
• Nolan Gould
• Pink
• Priyanka Chopra
• Sabrina Carpenter
• Sarah Hyland
• Sofia Carson
• Ty Burrell
• Viola Davis
• Zendaya

It has already been announced that Harrison Ford will reveal details on Star Wars Land for both coasts in Disneyland and in Disney's Hollywood Studios during the special. 

"Zootopia" Monorail Wrap Debuts at Disney World:

Just a few weeks ago, Monorail Black at Walt Disney World returned to normal after it had the Star Wars wrap to promote "Star Wars: The Force Awakens." Today, Monorail Orange got a wrap of its own to promote Disney's "Zootopia" that hits theaters March 4, 2016.

Photos Credit to: The Walt Disney Company, Attractions Magazine, and @DallasORL