Disney Parks, Resorts, & Entertainment

Rivers of Light at Disney’s Animal Kingdom to Debut April 22

2 March 2016 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Exciting news today, as the Disney Parks Blog treated us to an opening date for the greatly anticipated “Rivers of Light” nighttime spectacular at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, as well as a preview video with more info! Being a fan of any light-related night-time shows-combined-with-water, I’ve been looking forward to this since it was announced, and now I’m even more excited. It looks to be a truly organic, natural-fit for the park, and it sounds like Imagineers are doing what they do best, creating amazing original experiences, founded in real-life backstory mixed with myth and fantasy.

According the the Parks blog, “…the show, set on Discovery River in the Asia section of the park, will depict an ancient lantern festival guided by two storytellers who call forth four animal Spirit Guides: an Asian Tiger, Tropical Turtle, African Elephant and Great Horned Owl. These Spirit Guides return at different points during the show to lead the audience through their journey through the Rivers of Light.”

See more in the video below:

It’s also wonderful that the opening night is Earth Day, Animal Kingdom’s birthday. Animal Kingdom opened on Earth Day back in 1998, I can’t think of a better 18th birthday present, than Rivers of Light, the park’s first-ever night-time show. Will you be there for the premier of the show?

Finding Dory Official Trailer Released

2 March 2016 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

During the D23 Expo over last summer in Anaheim, we were treated to quite a bit of news and info about Finding Dory, including many of the voice actors, and some exclusive clips of the film. Now the first full-length trailer has been officially released today, on the Ellen Show and we can share it here with you too! Check it out below:

I like that we find out where she learned to speak whale, and the whole Monterrey Bay Aquarium-like location where Dory ends up while seeking her family looks really interesting and keeping in the theme of Finding Nemo of seeing things from the fish’s points of view. I’m most looking forward to HOW she lost her family though, and hope we get to learn about that too. (Also secretly hoping for another cameo by the Boston lobstahs too ;).)

Directed by Andrew Stanton (“Finding Nemo,” “WALL•E”) and produced by Lindsey Collins (co-producer “WALL•E”), the film features the voices of Ellen DeGeneres, Albert Brooks, Ed O’Neill, Kaitlin Olson, Ty Burrell, Eugene Levy and Diane Keaton. “Finding Dory” swims into theaters June 17, 2016.

Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival 2016 Sneak Peek

1 March 2016 by Suzannah Otis 2 Comments

Ranger Mickey at the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival 2016

As much as I enjoy the unique foods offered at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival each year, it’s no secret that I actually prefer the Flower & Garden Festival by leaves and mounds (see what I did there? horticultural puns!). In all seriousness, it really is my favorite Festival, especially with the addition of the outdoor kitchens. Seeing new topiary creations each year, in addition to the old favorites always makes for great visits to Epcot, and fun photo ops, ensuring you explore and visit even some forgotten areas. Additionally, with the spring season at hand, the food options at the outdoor kitchens (now in their 4th year at the Festival), are lighter, more focused on vegetables and organic and locally sourced ingredients. The menus are fresh (there’s a reason they use #FreshEpcot as the hashtag for the Festival) and not too heavy, just perfect for strolling the park in the springtime.

This year, the Flower & Garden Festival runs from March 2 – May 30, expanding from 75 days last year, to a full 90 this year. Festival Horticultural Manager Eric Darden explained that they are prepared and excited for the challenge of a 90-day festival. With the previous length, they had 2 separate plantings to keep the gardens looking bright and full. This year, they may have to do 3 sets of plantings for some of the displays, ensuring no matter when you visit, the flowers will look as wonderful as day 1. Also new this year, is a new topiary character, Ranger Mickey, who, along with Chip n’ Dale, help celebrate the National Park Service’s 100th Anniversary. I loved these new topiaries and of course, awareness of our amazing National Parks is always a good thing.

We were treated to a preview of some of the menu options as well as some of the areas which were still under construction. Set to open tomorrow, March 2nd, everything will be revealed and ready to go at park opening. Until then, enjoy some photos and further information on 23rd annual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival!

(Hover over photos to read captions)

Of the samples we tried, I was most in love with the Shrimp and Grits and the Burnt Ends – so, so good and the flavors are ridiculous. I also really liked the Currywurst, which I guess used to be at Sommerfest, but I never tried it there. The Jerk Chicken was also a winner. I thought I had tried gin in my past and not been a fan, but mixed with the Cucumber Watermelon Slush, I really loved it. I would totally get this when I go back to the Festival. Of course the Festival Passport is back, and you can get stamps at every kiosk around the World Showcase. You can view all the menus, topiary checklist, Garden Rocks performers, and all the Festival info online before you go.

Here are some of the topiary and garden photos from our sneak peek. We’ll have more throughout the run of the Festival on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and in future posts here.

2016 Epcot Flower & Garden Festival — Sunburst garden behind Spaceship Earth

Will you be visiting during the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival? What are you most looking forward to seeing and trying? We can’t wait to get back for more!

Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters Opens March 7 in Disney California Adventure

25 February 2016 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

When Luigi’s Flying Tires closed a little over a year ago over in Cars Land at Disney California Adventure, we all wondered what would replace the fun, albeit short-lived and plagued-with-issues attraction. Well wonder no more, because Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters is less than a month away from opening, and Erin Glover over at the Disney Parks Blog, has shared some fun news and a sneak peek of the ride. It looks adorable, and based on how much fun my family has on Tow Mater’s Junkyard Spin, I know this will be a big hit. While the ride looks simple and very kid-friendly, it seems to be very advanced in its technology and possible combinations for ride paths. I can’t wait to check it out myself (hopefully) soon!

Here’s more from Erin:

Luigi has invited his cousins from Carsoli, Italy, to Radiator Springs for a special celebration! In this all-new attraction, Luigi will turn the tire storage yard behind his Casa Della Tires into a dance floor! Cars Land guests will be able to ride along with Luigi’s cousins as they move and spin to upbeat Italian music, performing the traditional dances of their hometown village.

Each dancing car will have its own high-spirited personality and signature dance moves – making every ride unpredictable, as you won’t know which way they will turn and spin next! Take a look at how Walt Disney Imagineering created this carefully choreographed dance in this behind-the-scenes video:

Join the dance yourself when Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters opens March 7.

What do you think? Are you excited to meet the cousins? I love that they all have names and personalities, and that the ride will be different pretty much every time.

Narcoosee’s Waterfront Sunday Brunch – Now With Tables in Wonderland Discount

24 February 2016 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

The Narcoosee’s Waterfront Brunch has been taking place on Sundays since November 22, 2015, with great reaction to the selection of food. Now, Tables in Wonderland just announced that current Tables in Wonderland members will receive their 20% discount on the $69 per adult and $41 per child (3-9) prices. See photo below from Tables in Wonderland for more brunch info. It may be time to renew my Tables in Wonderland membership!

Narcoosee’s is one of my favorite under-appreciated Walt Disney World restaurants, due to its location and beautiful views alone. Located right on the water on the edge of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, it’s a hidden gem. I haven’t been in a while, but last time I was the food was incredible as well. I don’t live with many seafood eaters, so maybe I’ll have to treat my mom to a brunch here soon.

Have you been? What did you think of the brunch (or dinner)?

Morimoto Asia at Disney Springs Hosts March 3rd Craft Beer Dinner With Crooked Can Brewing Co.

23 February 2016 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

As you may recall from my recent review of Morimoto Asia, I thought it was a wonderful new addition to the ever-evolving Disney Springs area. I love that they are embracing other local businesses and catering to local guests with their special events like the one listed below – the 3rd Craft Beer Dinner featuring Winter Garden’s own Crooked Can Brewing Co. Read more about it below:

The cherry blossom, or sakura, is widely regarded as Japan’s unofficial national flower. There are dozens of different cherry tree varieties in Japan, most of which bloom for only a couple of days each spring. The seasonal spectacle is celebrated with hanami, or cherry blossom viewing, parties under the trees. It is in this spirit that Crooked Can Brewing Co. worked in partnership with Morimoto Asia to create this unique, seasonal, Cherry Blossom Kolsch. This signature beer will be debuted on March 3rd and is available only at Morimoto Asia at Disney Springs – and like the cherry blossom itself – for a limited time.

WHAT:

Morimoto Asia at Disney Springs is teaming up with Winter Garden-based Crooked Can Brewing Company to host an intimate five-course craft beer pairing dinner. The menu, created by Executive Chef Yuhi Fujinaga, will showcase a selection of modern Pan-Asian dishes. Each course will be paired by Crooked Can brewmasters Kent Waugh and Chad Holloway. Price is $85 per guest all -inclusive. The menu and parings are below.

1st Course

Spring Collection of Shellfish Ceviche

Alaskan king crab, Washington State mirugai, Maine Uni, salmon roe, bean thread noodle

Crooked Can Cherry Blossom Kolsch

2nd Course

Duo of Duck

Morimoto Peking duck served with flour pancakes, hoisin miso, apricot-chili, and scallions

Consomme soup, daikon, carrot, foie gras

Crooked Can Bock Humbug

3rd Course

Trio of Chicken Satays

Chicken skins, yuzu-kosho, Himalayan salt; Boneless chicken wings, spicy garlic glaze; Chicken thigh, peanut sauce, cilantro

Crooked Can McSwagger’s Amber Ale

4th Course

Domestic Wagyu Sirloin “Ishiyaki”

Grilled at tableside with kimchi fried rice cake, smoked soy, fresh wasabi

Crooked Can Stout

Dessert

“Taiyaki” Japanese style pancake stuffed with sweet azuki beans

Served with matcha gelato

Crooked Can Cloud Chaser Hefeweizen

WHEN:

Thursday, March 3rd, Dinner starts promptly at 7 p.m.

WHERE:

Morimoto Asia at Disney Springs

RSVP:

Guests can reserve a seat by calling (407) 939-6686 (MOTO).

COST:

$85 per guest (all-inclusive)

The Good Dinosaur Blu-Ray and DVD with 2 Hours of Bonus Features

22 February 2016 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

On Tuesday, February 23, Disney Pixar’s The Good Dinosaur releases on Blu-Ray, DVD, and Digital HD and it will be packed full with 2+ hours of bonus features! Bonus Features include:

BONUS:

Digital HD*, Blu-ray Combo Pack & Disney Movies Anywhere (DMA)

THEATRICAL SHORT – Sanjay’s Super Team – Sanjay loves the world of cartoons and comics, while his father tries to draw him into his Hindu traditions. Reluctance quickly turns into awe-inspiring adventure as the boy embarks on an amazing journey, returning with a new perspective they can both embrace.

TRUE LIES ABOUT DINOSAURS – We know – it’s preposterous to think Apatosaurs spoke English. Learn more about what separates the fictional dinosaurs of “The Good Dinosaur“ from what scientists know about real dinosaurs.

RECYCLOSAURUS – Pixar takes creative competition seriously. Maybe a little too seriously. Watch as “The Good Dinosaur” crew competes to see which department can create the best dinosaur ever…using only discarded items from the studio’s “free table.”

THE FILMMAKERS’ JOURNEY – Finding your way from an idea to a film takes a lot of exploration. Director Peter Sohn and his fellow filmmakers talk about the challenging, inspiring, and unexpectedly emotional experience of making “The Good Dinosaur.”

EVERY PART OF THE DINOSAUR – The filmmakers talk about the special animation challenges of “The Good Dinosaur” – including figuring out how to animate a dinosaur who’s really a boy, and a boy who’s got the spirit of a dog.

FOLLOWING THE T-REX TRAIL – Follow the filmmakers as they travel to a working cattle ranch and meet the McKays, a close-knit family whose work ethic, generosity, and stories inspired the T-Rex ranchers of the film.

COMMENTARY – Commentary from director Peter Sohn, story supervisor Kelsey Mann, supervising animator Mike Venturini, director of photography/lighting Sharon Calahan, and supervising technical director Sanjay Bakshi.

DINO BITES – Montage of original animated pieces produced to promote “The Good Dinosaur.”

HIDE AND SEEK – A short animated clip produced to promote “The Good Dinosaur.”

DELETED SCENES:

The Attack – An idyllic introduction to the family farm is cut short when a savage predator attacks the newborn Arlo. With an introduction by Director Peter Sohn.

Building the Silo – An admiring Arlo is thrilled to follow along as his father builds a silo for the family farm. With an introduction by Director Peter Sohn.

Waiting for Poppa – Arlo awaits the return of his beloved father on a stormy night, only to be greeted with tragic news. With an introduction by Director Peter Sohn.

Blu-ray 3D & DVD:

THEATRICAL SHORT – Sanjay’s Super Team

Digital Exclusive:

JUST LISTEN – Trace the development of the unique soundscape of “The Good Dinosaur,” from the wilds of British Columbia as Sound Designer Craig Berkey collects sounds, to the recording studio where Jeff and Mychael Danna use instruments from around the world to create the music.

Lots of behind-the-scenes fun, which I know I always find interesting – both for the technical aspects of how the films are created, and the stories behind the story so to speak; how the writers and animators came up with the choices they made within the film. Pick it up Tuesday everywhere!

I missed reviewing The Good Dinosaur when it came out in theatres, because I was getting married at the time and getting to screen it just didn’t work out timing-wise. However, I did get to see it on our mini-honeymoon on the Disney Dream cruise ship (I love that you get to see first run movies on board!). I went into the film thinking I would cry uncontrollably, and it would become another Pixar-heart-wrenching-actually-more-like-heart-ripping-soul-gutting storyline that they are now famous for, where, parent or not, you are rendered a blubbering mess because of the storyline they’ve laid out in front of you. And yes, I did cry. Well, almost. My eyes welled up a bit. But that was it. Trust me, I was more shocked than anyone that I didn’t really care for the story…or the characters.

I’m not sure if it was the design of the dinosaurs, which seemed almost plastic or rubber in nature, or the strange side-stories with western “cow-rustling” dinos, or perhaps just Arlo’s personality…but whatever it was, it just didn’t win me over. I felt like there were a lot of mixed messages there, as a parent, from the dad – telling his son to “make his mark” despite him being miserable and not wanting to hurt (or be hurt) by other creatures, then having a sort of change of heart – only when he saw his son’s life was at risk. Maybe I’m over-analyzing, but as a mom, I just wasn’t a fan. And the personality that came out of that upbringing was a whiny, complainy, Arlo, who wasn’t much fun to watch. Of course, he learned to make his own way, and befriended Spot in the process, doing the right thing and making his own kind of mark.

In stark contrast to my dislike of the dinosaurs animation, was my love of the animated backgrounds. They were just breathtaking. A kind of homage to National Parks across the country, you could definitely see characteristics of many parks found within the film. I could watch the movie again and again because of that.

The world around them, nature and its power, became a character in itself, and again, that part I loved. As a side note, when I showed my 7 year-old the movie that had come in the mail for us to review, I asked if he wanted to watch it and he said no because he didn’t want to cry. So I guess it affected him, which in a way, I am happy about. You always wonder in this day and age, if your children are desensitized to the importance of family, so I was glad to see he was affected in that way. (And he is my son after all, and I cry at (almost) anything.)

What did you think of The Good Dinosaur? Is it one of your new favorites? Or did you have issues with it too? I’d love to hear from you below!

Disclaimer: I was provided with a Blu-Ray/DVD combo pack for review. My opinions (as you can see!) were not affected by this and my thoughts are my own.

Special Disneyland 60th Ears-100% of Price Donated to Make-A-Wish!

22 February 2016 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

I wanted to share this story that was recently posted on the Disney Parks Blog – I’m sure by now you’ve seen on Facebook or Instagram or Twitter about the #ShareYourEars campaign where Disney Parks will donate $5 to Make-A-Wish for each photo with Mouse Ears (you can even make your own out of anything!) uploaded to the above social media sites, with the hashtag #ShareYourEars, up to one million dollars. Now there is another way to contribute to such a great cause, and get some new Ears in the process! Check out Michelle Harker’s post below:

I have even more exciting news! One hundred percent – 100%! – of the $19.95 sale price (exclusive of sales tax) of the ear hat shown above will be donated to Make-A-Wish — helping make wishes come true around the world for children with life-threatening medical conditions. No discounts apply. Purchasing limits will apply, and this particular ear hat will be available at Disneyland Resort only at the following locations.

Disneyland park – Disney Showcase and Emporium

Disney California Adventure park – Elias & Co.

Downtown Disney District – World of Disney Store

Well done, Disney! And if anyone’s in Disneyland and wants to pick me up some, let me know! 😉

Pete’s Dragon Live Action Movie Poster Revealed

19 February 2016 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Disney recently released the first teaser poster for the upcoming live action remake of Pete’s Dragon, along with a teaser trailer of the film:

A “motion poster” below was also released:

Here is the first teaser trailer:

Reaction has been mixed from the start from die-hard Disney fans about remaking a classic like this – what are your thoughts on this new Pete’s Dragon? And if you haven’t seen the original (other than the Elliott float in the Main Street Electrical Parade?) or know the story, here’s the official synopsis:

A reimagining of Disney’s cherished family film, “Pete’s Dragon” is the adventure of an orphaned boy named Pete and his best friend Elliott, who just so happens to be a dragon. “Pete’s Dragon” stars Bryce Dallas Howard (“Jurassic World”), Oakes Fegley (“This is Where I Leave You”), Wes Bentley (“The Hunger Games”), Karl Urban (“Star Trek”), Oona Laurence (“Southpaw”) and Oscar® winner Robert Redford (“Captain America: The Winter Soldier”). The film, which is directed by David Lowery (“Ain’t Them Bodies Saints”), is written by Lowery & Toby Halbrooks based on a story by Seton I. Miller and S.S. Field and produced by Jim Whitaker, p.g.a. (“The Finest Hours,” “Friday Night Lights”), with Barrie M. Osborne (“The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring,” “The Great Gatsby”) serving as executive producer.

For years, old wood carver Mr. Meacham (Robert Redford) has delighted local children with his tales of the fierce dragon that resides deep in the woods of the Pacific Northwest. To his daughter, Grace (Bryce Dallas Howard), who works as a forest ranger, these stories are little more than tall tales…until she meets Pete (Oakes Fegley). Pete is a mysterious 10-year-old with no family and no home who claims to live in the woods with a giant, green dragon named Elliott. And from Pete’s descriptions, Elliott seems remarkably similar to the dragon from Mr. Meacham’s stories. With the help of Natalie (Oona Laurence), an 11-year-old girl whose father Jack (Wes Bentley) owns the local lumber mill, Grace sets out to determine where Pete came from, where he belongs, and the truth about this dragon. Disney’s “Pete’s Dragon” opens in U.S. theaters on August 12, 2016.

Hocus Pocus Show Puts a Spell on Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party

21 September 2015 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Finale of the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular

While Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is an annual tradition for my family, I will admit, I was never really one for the shows that would play each year in front of Cinderella Castle. I know that may be blasphemy for some Disney fans, but I just always wanted to spend our time during the party collecting candy, enjoying the decorations and other unique offerings, and riding attractions with limited waits.

However this year, Disney has changed the way I do MNSSHP! I was able to see the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular at the first party, after being chosen to attend the Disney Parks Blog meet-up. During that event, we were given VIP viewing for the show and the Boo-to-You parade, and as we waited for the brand new show to begin, the anticipation and excitement were palpable. We were surrounded by cast members who were involved in the show’s creation, from costumes to scripts to dancing and music, so it was extra special to see their proud reactions of the amazing show. And amazing is exactly what the show was.

From the opening song, “The Season of the Witch” the mood was set for a very different, very visual and audible treat. The projections and lighting on the castle were fantastic, the costumes and dancers even better. Soon the Sanderson Sisters took the stage, and the crowd erupted in applause. From that point on, the show was a mix of lines and actions straight from the movie, to more subtler nods that hardcore fans would recognize. The first two villains who came out to sing just happen to be two of my favorites, Dr. Facilier from Princess and the Frog, and the elusive Oogie Boogie from Tim Burton’s Nightmare Before Christmas. Maleficent rounds out the trio of Disney villains, but also leads an entourage of additional Disney baddies onto the stage. The show culminates with the show-stopping “I Put a Spell on You,” originally sung by Bette Midler in the film version of Hocus Pocus, and the crowd once again went wild, singing along and enjoying every moment. I was left in awe of the level of performance, costumes, music and effects in the show. I immediately wanted to see it again, and again, and again.

I put together a few highlights from the show to give you a feel of what to expect:

Of course, the rest of Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party gave us plenty to do, from the much beloved Mickey’s Boo to You parade, to HalloWishes with its eye (and ear)-popping 360-degree perimeter fireworks – themed to Halloween and villains music, to the candy stops and special snacks and merchandise. One disappointment for me this year was on the snack front. Gone is the pumpkin waffle sundae from Sleepy Hollow, which was my favorite thing to ever eat in Magic Kingdom, as well as a few of the other specialty drinks and snacks. What was left was the candy corn soft serve at Storybook Treats, and a few themed cupcakes. I know cupcakes are easy to make and everyone loves them, and perhaps the pumpkin waffles were not an efficient item for the party, but I still missed them nonetheless. Aside from that, if you are able to get to Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party this year, I don’t think it will disappoint. I’ll be back soon with another post about the party, but until then, it’s time to run amok, amok, amok, amok!