Archives for June 2013

Disney Interactive and Harmonix’s “Fantasia: Music Evolved” launches in 2014!

21 June 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

At The E3 Convention last week, Disney Interactive and Harmonix announced “Fantasia: Music Evolved,” a breakthrough musical motion video game inspired by Disney’s classic animated film, “Fantasia.” The game will be available for Xbox One, the all-in-one games and entertainment system from Microsoft and Kinect for Xbox 360 in 2014.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kq0_dGKx4Os&w=560&h=315]

Disney Interactive announced that Modest Mussorgsky’s “Night on Bald Mountain,” will be playable in “Fantasia: Music Evolved,” in addition to over 25 hit artist selections ranging from chart-topper Bruno Mars to rock royalty Queen and electronic DJ and producer AVICII. Fans of “Fantasia” will remember “Night on Bald Mountain” as the final song from the film.

About Fantasia: Music Evolved
“Fantasia: Music Evolved” is a breakthrough musical motion video game inspired by Disney’s classic animated film “Fantasia.” In the game, players enter the magical realms of Fantasia, selected by the legendary sorcerer Yen Sid, to hone their musical and magical prowess as his new apprentice. “Fantasia: Music Evolved” takes players on an interactive and immersive motion-controlled journey through worlds of music and magic.

Players will control music spanning all genres and eras, including classics from the original film such as “Night on Bald Mountain” to over 25 hit artist selections ranging from chart-topper Bruno Mars to rock royalty Queen and electronic DJ and producer AVICII. Using Kinect motion control technology and natural, controller-free gameplay, players will control the musical flow of these hits, unlocking the power to transform the music and living world.

Designed by Harmonix, critically acclaimed creators of Rock Band and Dance Central and the world’s leading music and motion gaming studio, players become the sorcerer’s newest apprentice, exploring remarkable worlds and unlocking the magic within the music, with Disney Interactive’s “Fantasia: Music Evolved.”

Game Features

Perform your favorite songs from Bruno Mars, Queen, Fun., Kimbra, AVICII, as well as other world renowned artists and classical masters – using natural, gesture-based movements that put you in complete control of your own musical journey. Experience a full range of genres and style unique to each performance.
Transform and remix music via magical manipulators in real-time like never before, changing music in intuitive and surprising new ways.
Explore breathtaking environments with your motion controlled “muse” including the mysterious subaquatic world of “The Shoal,” an enchanted printing press, and more;
Discover worlds filled with hidden musical interactions designed to engage players, encouraging them to unleash their creativity.

Disney Planes The Video Game Trailer!

21 June 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

“Disney’s Planes” is a flying adventure video game inspired by the upcoming Disney animated comedy adventure film. Available exclusively for Nintendo platforms including the Wii™ and Wii U™ systems as well as the Nintendo 3DS™ and Nintendo DS™ handheld devices on August 6th, just a few days prior to the film’s August 9th opening in theaters nationwide, the game will expand beyond the storyline of “Disney’s Planes,” offering players the opportunity to enjoy the thrill of flight as one of the popular characters from the film.

From above the world of “Cars,” the “Disney’s Planes” video game takes players on a high-flying, action-packed, fun-filled adventure with Dusty, a big-hearted, speed-loving crop duster who is voiced by actor and comedian Dane Cook. Players will take to the skies with Dusty and other characters, including Ishani, voiced by actress Priyanka Chopra; Echo, voiced by actor Anthony Edwards; and Bravo, voiced by actor Val Kilmer, as they embark on global missions, air races and grand adventures around the world.

THE LONE RANGER is Riding in July 3, 2013-Latest Behind the Scenes Fun and Fan Contest

21 June 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

From producer Jerry Bruckheimer and director Gore Verbinski, the filmmaking team behind the blockbuster “Pirates of the Caribbean” franchise, comes Disney/Jerry Bruckheimer Films’ “The Lone Ranger,” a thrilling adventure infused with action and humor, in which the famed masked hero is brought to life through new eyes. Native American warrior Tonto (Johnny Depp) recounts the untold tales that transformed John Reid (Armie Hammer), a man of the law, into a legend of justice—taking the audience on a runaway train of epic surprises and humorous friction as the two unlikely heroes must learn to work together and fight against greed and corruption.

” The Lone Ranger” also stars Tom Wilkinson, William Fichtner, Barry Pepper, James Badge Dale, Ruth Wilson and Helena Bonham Carter.

A Disney/Jerry Bruckheimer Films presentation, “The Lone Ranger” is directed by Gore Verbinski and produced by Jerry Bruckheimer and Gore Verbinski, with screen story by Ted Elliott & Terry Rossio and Justin Haythe and screenplay by Justin Haythe and Ted Elliott & Terry Rossio. “The Lone Ranger” releases in U.S. theaters on July 3, 2013. Some fun behind-the scenes videos have been released about the movie and its actors, check them out below:

Spirit Platform behind the scenes video:

The Lone Ranger himself in Cowboy Bootcamp:

ENTER TO WIN A TRIP – FANS SPOT LIFE-SIZE STATUES OF THE LONE RANGER AND TONTO TRAVELING THE U.S. FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A TRIP TO NEW MEXICO –

In support of Disney/Jerry Bruckheimer Films’ “The Lone Ranger,” releasing in U.S. theaters on July 3, Disney kicked-off of The Lone Ranger Ride for Justice Tour in New York City’s Union Square on June 12^th. Life-size statues of the Lone Ranger and Tonto appeared atop an iconic building on 18th Street in Union Square. Fans gathered for a meet-up in Bryant Park and participated in a hunt to find the statues and were given Lone Ranger prizes and screening passes.

The tour continues across the country ending in L.A., just in time for the movie’s opening on July 3rd. The Lone Ranger and Tonto will be gracing rooftops, mountaintops and famous landmarks along the way, only staying long enough in each city to be discovered by the locals before they continue their ride westward to Orlando, Miami, Atlanta, St. Louis, New Orleans, Denver, Salt Lake City, San Francisco, Hollywood, and Burbank.

Fans who find the Lone Ranger and Tonto are asked to enter at Disney.com/loneranger/ and to Instagram or Tweet a photo or Tweet the location with the hashtag #LRRideforJustice for a chance to win a trip for two to New Mexico. Follow the films’ social channels to participate in the hunt to find the statues, or to guess their location. No purchase necessary. Void Where Prohibited. Ends 7/8/13 at 11:59:59pm EST. Open to legal residents 13 years or older of U.S. (including D.C.). Restrictions and limitations apply. Sponsor Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures. For more information or to enter the sweepstakes visit: Disney.com/loneranger or Facebook.com/TheLoneRanger

“Like” THE LONE RANGER on Facebook: www.facebook.com/theloneranger

“Follow” THE LONE RANGER on Twitter: https://twitter.com/disneypictures

Visit THE LONE RANGER website: www.disney.com/theloneranger

THE LONE RANGER rides into theaters on July 3rd!

Review: Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: Quest for the Crystal Mickey on DVD

20 June 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Around my house, the promotion for the Quest for the Crystal Mickey on Disney Junior was quite a build up. My four-year old was SO excited, we had to show him on a calendar just how many days until it premiered and of course set up to record it as well. So when I saw it was coming to DVD, of course, I knew he had to have it. He was not disappointed and it is still one of his favorite shows to watch. I think anything with “quest” in it instantly makes things more exciting, don’t you? The best part is the DVD comes not only with that episode of Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, but also 3 others so it really is a DVD you can pop-in and ensure your little ones have quality family entertainment for a good while. The episodes included are: Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: Quest for the Crystal Mickey, Donald of the Desert, Donald the Genie, Goofy’s Coconutty Monkey, and Goofy’s Giant Adventure.

Here are more details, if you happened to miss the show when it came out:

Join Mickey, Minnie, Pluto and all their pals in the newest Clubhouse crusade. When the legendary Crystal Mickey

goes missing, Mickey and friends go on an adventure to save the Clubhouse from losing its magic. Grab your hat,

buckle your seatbelt, and get ready to embark on a thrilling adventure in “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: The Quest for

the Crystal Mickey!”

There’s no time to lose after greedy Plunderin’ Pete snatches the legendary Crystal Mickey statue from the Clubhouse. Without this sparkly statue’s magic, the Clubhouse will

disappear forever!

Can the world’s most extraordinary hero “Kansas City Mickey,” get the magical statue back in time? Only with help from young viewers at home…and the right Mouseketools can Mickey journey across the Sandy Desert, brave the Rushing River and make his way through the Hidden Jungle. But watch out for Pete’s trickiest traps!

You can bring the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: Quest for the Crystal Mickey into your home today, as it is currently out on DVD. You’ll be singing along in no time! You can also check out Mickey Mouse Club House daily on Disney Junior.

Thor 2 Teaser Trailer and Official Poster

20 June 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Marvel’s “Thor: The Dark World” continues the big-screen adventures of Thor, the Mighty Avenger, as he battles to save Earth and all the Nine Realms from a shadowy enemy that predates the universe itself. In the aftermath of Marvel’s “Thor” and “Marvel’s The Avengers,” Thor fights to restore order across the cosmos…but an ancient race led by the vengeful Malekith returns to plunge the universe back into darkness. Faced with an enemy that even Odin and Asgard cannot withstand, Thor must embark on his most perilous and personal journey yet, one that will reunite him with Jane Foster and force him to sacrifice everything to save us all.

Starring Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Tom Hiddleston, Stellan Skarsgård, Idris Elba, Christopher Eccleston, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Kat Dennings, Ray Stevenson, Zachary Levi, Tadanobu Asano and Jaimie Alexander with Rene Russo and Anthony Hopkins as Odin, Marvel’s “Thor: The Dark World” is directed by Alan Taylor, produced by Kevin Feige, from a story by Don Payne and screenplay by Christopher Yost and Christopher Markus & Stephen McFeely and is based on Marvel’s classic Super Hero Thor, who first appeared in the comic book “Journey into Mystery “ #83 in August, 1962.

“Thor: The Dark World” is presented by Marvel Studios. The executive producers are Alan Fine, Nigel Gostelow, Stan Lee, Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso and Craig Kyle. The film releases November 8, 2013, and is distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures.

THOR: THE DARK WORLD

Like Thor on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Thor

Follow Thor on Twitter https://twitter.com/ThorMovies

THOR: THE DARK WORLD releases in theaters on November 8, 2013!

Oz the Great and Powerful on DVD and Blu-Ray

11 June 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Oz the Great and Powerful comes out on DVD and Blu-Ray today. In addition to the great (no pun intended) movie full of fun new characters and stories, there are some fun bonus clips featuring behind-the-scenes action and the creative processes behind making the film.

Watch Mila Kunis go from sweet to wicked in seconds flat thanks to award-winning special effects make up artist Howard Berger! See how Disney Classics like Pinocchio, Snow White and Cinderella inspired the team when creating Oz! Danny Elfman describes the inspiration behind the score he wrote for the Wicked Witch. See this and more in the clips below!

Here are the bonus features on the DVD and Blu-ray:

Bonus Features:

Blu-ray:

The Magic of “Oz The Great and Powerful” (Second Screen Experience) – An immersive Second Screen experience that details all thingsOz. From an interactive map full of secrets and surprises, to an inside look at the spectacular world of Oz. All fans need to do is download the special “The Magic of Oz The Great and Powerful: Second Screen” App (which is free and currently available for immediate download at the iTunes Store for iPads) which provides fans with infinite opportunities to remain connected to their favorite film, its cast of characters and to dive deeper into the magical world of Oz. This App provides exclusive access to invigorating and exclusive content including:

The Enchanting Characters and Creatures of Oz – From Munchkins and Tinkers to good witches, bad witches, and flying baboons, this piece follows each character and creature of the Land of Oz from inspiration to final outcome.

The Sounds of Magical Oz – What adds fragility to the sounds of China Girl’s footsteps; ferocity to the tornado; or weight to the flutter of Finley’s flapping wings?

Sleight of Hand: Zach Braff Puppet Theater – Actor, and voice of Finley, Zach Braff introduces viewers to the Finley mockup.

Mariah Carey Music Video

Bloopers

My Journey in Oz by James Franco – A personal story produced and directed by James Franco.

Mr. Elfman’s Musical Concoctions – An interview with composer Danny Elfman unveils his inspiration in scoring “Oz The Great And Powerful.”

China Girl and the Suspension of Disbelief – This feature uncloaks the several forms of movie magic employed to bring China Girl to life, from the initial artwork and character design, to the on-set puppeteering during filmmaking, and finally, through each stage of the visual-effects process; and includes an interview with Joey King, the voice of China Girl.

Before Your Very Eyes: From Kansas to Oz – Production designer Robert Stromberg takes viewers through the set design of the Land of Oz, from sketching his original ideas on a napkin, through to the final set pieces and the accompanying visual effects.

Mila’s Metamorphosis – Lead makeup artist Howard Berger expands on one of the oldest, most tried-and-true forms of movie magic: makeup design and effects.

Walt Disney and the Road to Oz – It is well known that Walt Disney had a fascination with the Land of Oz since he was a child. See how that fascination grew into inspiration as he began planning for his own adaptation of the stories in the classic Baum books.

DVD:

Bloopers

Walt Disney and the Road to Oz

Oz the Great and Powerful comes out today- be sure to add it to your Disney movie collection!

DISNEY TO PRESENT “BROADWAY AND BEYOND” at the Disney D23 EXPO

11 June 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

BURBANK, Calif. – June 11, 2013 – D23: The Official Disney Fan Club is thrilled to announce a special theatrical performance, Broadway and Beyond. Thomas Schumacher, president and producer, Disney Theatrical Productions will host a musical journey into Disney’s history on Broadway and beyond at the D23 Expo: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event. The performance features an all-star line-up, including Heidi Blickenstaff (THE LITTLE MERMAID), Ashley Brown (MARY POPPINS and BEAUTY AND THE BEAST), Merle Dandridge (TARZAN® and AIDA), Josh Strickland (TARZAN®) and Alton Fitzgerald White (THE LION KING), who sing beloved songs from the award-winning musicals they starred in as well as classic tunes from the Disney on Broadway catalogue.

The one night only performance will take place on Friday, August 9, 2013 at 6:30pm on Stage 23 inside the Anaheim Convention Center.

DISNEY THEATRICAL PRODUCTIONS, a division of The Walt Disney Studios, was formed in 1994 and operates under the direction of Thomas Schumacher. Worldwide, its eight Broadway titles have been seen by over 124 million theatergoers, grossed over $8.9 billion and have cumulatively run a staggering 195 years. With 15 productions currently produced or licensed, a Disney musical is being performed professionally somewhere on the planet virtually every hour of the day.

The company’s inaugural production, Beauty and the Beast, opened in 1994. It played a remarkable 13 year run on Broadway and has been produced in 28 countries worldwide. In November 1997, Disney opened The Lion King, which received six 1998 Tony® Awards including Best Musical and is now the highest grossing show in Broadway history. The show continues in its 16th smash year, having welcomed over 68 million visitors worldwide. The Lion King can also currently be seen on tour across North America, the U.K., and Japan, and in London’s West End, Hamburg, Tokyo, Madrid, and Sao Paulo.

Elton John and Tim Rice’s Aida opened on Broadway next, winning four 2000 Tony® Awards, and spawning productions around the world. Mary Poppins, a co-production with Cameron Mackintosh, opened in London in 2004 and established itself as one of the biggest stage musical successes to emerge in recent years. The Tony Award®-winning Broadway production played more than six years at Disney’s New Amsterdam Theatre and can now be seen on tour across North America and in Mexico City.

Tarzan®, which opened on Broadway in 2006, is now an international hit with an award-winning production in its 6th year in Germany. In January 2008, The Little Mermaid opened on Broadway and was the #1-selling new musical of that year. Its success continues with three new productions around the world: Holland, Russia and Japan.

Two new critically acclaimed productions opened on Broadway in 2012, receiving seven Tony® Awards between them: Newsies, in its second year at the Nederlander Theatre, and Peter and the Starcatcher, now playing at New World Stages.

Other successful stage musical ventures have included King David in concert, the national tour of On The Record, several touring versions of Disney’s High School Musical, and Der Glöckner Von Notre Dame in Berlin.

Its new musical, Aladdin, will open in Toronto in fall 2013.

About D23 Expo 2013
The D23 Expo—The Ultimate Disney Fan Event—brings the entire world of Disney under one roof, providing attendees with unprecedented access to Disney films, television and theme parks. For the latest D23 Expo 2013 news, visit www.D23Expo.com. To be part of the D23 Expo conversation, make sure to follow @DisneyD23 and tag your tweets with #D23Expo.