Disney|Pixar

DisneyPixar’s Luca Teaser Trailer

25 February 2021 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

I will admit, this movie snuck up on me! I had no idea this was in the works, so it was exciting to see a new image released yesterday and now a teaser trailer. If you haven’t heard what Luca is all about, here’s the scoop so far:

Disney and Pixar’s upcoming original feature film “Luca” is a fun and heartwarming story about friendship, stepping out of your comfort zone and two teenage sea monsters who experience a life-changing summer. Directed by Academy Award® nominee Enrico Casarosa (“La Luna”) and produced by Andrea Warren (“Lava,” “Cars 3”), “Luca” features a remarkable voice cast.

Jacob Tremblay (“Room,” “Wonder”) lends his voice to Luca Paguro, a bright and inventive 13-year-old sea monster with endless curiosity—especially when it comes to the mysterious world above the sea.
Jack Dylan Grazer (“We Are Who We Are,” “Shazam”) voices Alberto Scorfano, an independent, free-spirited teenage sea monster with unbridled enthusiasm for the human world.
Emma Berman provides the voice of Giulia, an outgoing and charming adventurer who befriends Luca and Alberto.
Maya Rudolph (“Bridesmaids,” “Saturday Night Live,” “Big Mouth”) voices Daniela, Luca’s mother.
Marco Barricelli voices Massimo, Giulia’s father.
Jim Gaffigan (“The Pale Tourist,” “Troop Zero”) voices Lorenzo, Luca’s father.

Fun fact, I almost named my son Gio Luca but settled on Giovanni with the understanding that he’d be called Gio. But I have always loved that name, probably since Suzanne Vega’s “Luka” back in 1987, but I’m dating myself haha. Anyway, here’s the Luca trailer:

What I find very interesting is the art style for Pixar has kind of morphed a little. To me, this definitely has a look similar to Sony Animation’s Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs style. It looks very pretty to look at and the story definitely seems fun.

Here’s some commentary from director Enrico Casarosa from a recent Variety interview:

“This is a deeply personal story for me, not only because it’s set on the Italian Riviera where I grew up, but because at the core of this film is a celebration of friendship. Childhood friendships often set the course of who we want to become and it is those bonds that are at the heart of our story in ‘Luca,’” Casarosa said in a statement. “So in addition to the beauty and charm of the Italian seaside, our film will feature an unforgettable summer adventure that will fundamentally change Luca.”

Disney Pixar Luca — Concept art from Pixar

“Luca” releases Summer 2021. What do you think of the new trailer for Luca?

You can follow along on their social channels:

http://instagram.com/pixarluca/

https://twitter.com/pixarluca

http://facebook.com/pixarluca

Hashtag: #PixarLuca

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.

Stocking Stuffer: Pixar Short Film Collection Volume 2 Now on Blu-Ray

5 December 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Pixar’s short films are what made me fall in love with them, many years ago. I’ve discussed in the past how I first saw Tin Toy back at an Animation Film Festival in Boston back in the 1990’s, so the Pixar shorts collections are always a favorite in our house. This time around, my four-year old has taken over and proclaimed this his favorite thing to watch ever. And truthfully, I love to watch him laugh and delight at the wonderful stories Pixar is telling. I could join him in watching this collection over and over (and have!).

Included in Volume 2, in addition to seven rarely screened student films from directors John Lasseter, Andrew Stanton, and Pete Docter are:

BURN•E – BURN•E is a dedicated, hard working robot that finds himself locked out of his ship and quickly learns that completing a simple task can often be a difficult endeavor. Based on characters from ‘WALL•E.’ (Directed by: Angus MacLane)

Dug’s Special Mission – In this funny short based on the character from ‘Up,’ Dug is sent on a foolish mission by Alpha, Beta and Gamma so that they can hunt for the Bird of Paradise Falls by themselves. Soon Dug discovers that where he belongs is not where he’s been looking. (Directed by: Ronnie del Carmen)

George & AJ – Inspired by Carl’s escape, senior citizens around the city unite to make their own “escapes,” much to the chagrin of George and A.J., in this short that features characters from ‘Up.’ (Directed by: Josh Cooley)

Air Mater – In this hilarious short, Mater decides he wants to learn how to fly and is accidently recruited by an elite group of formation flyers, the Falcon Hawks. (Directed by: Rob Gibbs)

Time Travel Mater – When a clock lands on Mater’s engine, he travels back in time to 1910 where he meets Stanley, the founder of Radiator Springs. (Directed by: Rob Gibbs)

Your Friend The Rat – ‘Ratatouille’s’ Remy and his brother Emile guide fans through world history from a rat’s perspective. (Directed by: Jim Capobianco)

Partly Cloudy – This humorous short features baby-delivering storks who receive their special packages high in the stratosphere, from clouds who sculpt babies and bring them to life. (Directed by: Peter Sohn)

Presto – When Presto, a great turn-of-the-century magician, neglects to feed his rabbit one too many times, the magician finds he isn’t the only one with a few tricks up his sleeve. (Directed by: Doug Sweetland)

Day & Night – This short follows Day, a sunny fellow, who encounters Night, a stranger of distinctly dark moods. As their suspicions turn to curiosity, they are delighted to find that this budding friendship can offer a new perspective on the world. (Directed by: Teddy Newton)

Hawaiian Vacation – Fans will love this “Toy Story Toon,” as Woody and Buzz lead a group of toys in giving Ken and Barbie the Hawaiian vacation of their dreams – without ever leaving home. (Directed by: Gary Rydstrom)

Small Fry – Fans’ favorite team of toys is back in this clever “Toy Story Toon.” Buzz Lightyear is left behind at a fast food restaurant where he finds himself in a support group for discarded toys. As Woody and the gang devise a way to rescue their friend, Buzz tries to escape the toy psychotherapy meeting. (Directed by: Angus MacLane)

La Luna – The timeless fable of a young boy coming of age in the most peculiar of circumstances, in which he discovers his Papa’s and Grandpa’s unusual line of work. (Directed by: Enrico Casarosa)

Here are a couple of clips from two of our favorite shorts:

Pixar Short Films Collection 2

is available now – a perfect stocking stuffer!

Study Scareonomics at Monsters University-Official Poster Released

3 December 2012 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

After sharing several fun images and teaser trailers with alternate endings, Disney-Pixar has now released the official movie poster for Monsters University, starring the voice talents of Billy Crystal and John Goodman. At Monsters University, we’ll see what sort of scare-jinx the pair got into before working together on the Scare Floor. Be sure to check out the official Monsters University campus website too, where you can purchase apparel to show your school spirit!

Like MONSTERS UNIVERSITY on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PixarMonstersUniversity

MONSTERS UNIVERSITY arrives in theatres everywhere on June 21, 2013!

Disney Pixar Monsters University Teaser Trailers and Movie Images

22 June 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Disney just sent over the newest clips from the upcoming Monsters University – looks pretty funny to me, can’t wait to see these guys on campus!

Here’s the official release:

“Billy Crystal’s an amazing comedic actor,” remarked Dan Scanlon, Director, Disney•Pixar’s Monsters University. “He gave us so much fun material, we decided to cut four slightly different versions of the trailer. We are so happy to have him back as Mike!”

You can also watch all four versions of the new trailer and vote for your favorite Mike sleep talking line on the official Monsters University Facebook Page. The winning line will be drawn up by a Pixar artist and shared EXCLUSIVELY with the fans of Monsters University.

Here are the four teaser trailers now available:

Are you ready for school?? Which Mike Wazowski line is your favorite??

Spoiler-Free REVIEW of Disney-Pixar’s #Brave-A Role Model is Born

15 June 2012 by Suzannah Otis 4 Comments

Since first hearing about a fiery redheaded girl who could shoot a bow and arrow, I knew I would love this movie – Brave. Last year, we were treated to a preview at the D23 Expo in Anaheim and I’ve been waiting impatiently ever since to see the full film. The anticipation has been being built up through the various trailers, promotions in and out of the parks, merchandise, and of course, the Princess Merida character meet and greets opening on both coasts. With all of this hype, I did worry that perhaps I wouldn’t love it as much as I hoped. Those fears were soon put at ease with just the opening sequence.

The color palette, the sweeping landscapes, and the music all set the stage for an epic tale. From the start, we are shown the importance of family and the strength of Merida’s family bond. That same bond later becomes conflict as Merida’s mother, Queen Elinor grooms her for her role as future queen and choosing a prince to marry. Merida, who grew up idolizing her father’s bravery and strength in battle, has other ideas about her future and her fate. As the previews tell us, Merida seeks to change her fate and be more than just a betrothed princess. The will-o-the-wisps come in to play and lead Merida to the ultimate choice. I won’t give anything away, but the results of her choice take us on an action-packed adventure.

Merida Will-o-the-Wisps — Merida meets a Wisp ©2012 Disney/Pixar

In addition to the breathtaking animation, we are treated to a rarity in a Disney film, a positive, yet still realistic mother-daughter relationship. Merida tries so hard to be her own person, in charge of her own life and make her own choices, but at the end of the day, she is still her mother’s daughter, and needs her. I loved that she still had that vulnerability and as a mother and a daughter myself, it was something I loved seeing on screen. I left the theater truly grateful for this portrayal of motherly love from Disney and Pixar. For so long, we saw evil stepmothers, no mother figure at all, or thin storylines that left us wanting more. We finally got a human, mother-daughter bond with Brave.

I would like to think the storyline, the amount of action, and gorgeous animation allows anyone to relate to Brave and Merida’s story, however my husband was not as big of a fan as I was. He did think it was beautiful, though. He actually didn’t like being emotionally manipulated by the storyline in Toy Story 3 either, so there’s that. Me, I’m a sap, and I fully own that. I cry if a kitten meows too sweetly, so of course I’m going to get emotional with the writing Pixar is famous for. That said, I don’t think Brave was too sappy, I don’t think it was manipulative with its plot, I think it was just perfect (is perfect too strong an accolade?).

Most importantly, as a mother of a tween daughter, Merida represents a strong, positive role model. She is stubborn and wants to get her way, but not in a whiny, annoying fashion, and she learns and grows from the challenges she faces. And perhaps best of all – she doesn’t settle for what’s expected of her lot in life. As parents, isn’t that what we all want for our children? To give them the comforts and tools they need to both be happy and make the best decisions they can? Disney and Pixar nailed that important lesson and I’m thrilled future generations now have Merida as a role model.

Brave bear cubs — These Bear Cubs stole the show for a bit, in a creepy, The Shining kind of way… ©2012 Disney/Pixar. All Rights Reserved.

At the same time, Merida is a nontraditional princess, apart from her sapphire blue eyes. She has wild, unruly red hair, freckles, she hates wearing tight prissy dresses, and worrying about manners. In a time when little girls aspire to dress up in heels with full make-up and attempt perfection, Merida stands proudly for all the little girls that may look or act a little different, but are no less beautiful, inside and out. Again, I am grateful for these choices that Disney supported.

And for those with absolutely no interest in girls or princesses, there is quite a bit of action, dark and scary scenes and even violence. Brave was given a PG rating for a reason, so parents with small children be warned. I was concerned there would be too much emphasis on slap-stick humor with the clans vying for Merida’s hand and the trouble-making little triplet brothers, but it was just the right balance, especially with so many powerful action scenes mixed in.

Another wonderful part of its masterpiece was the lovely score and soundtrack. I will definitely be buying the Brave original soundtrack when it’s released on June 19. So beautiful. I whole-heartedly recommend Brave and think it is a powerful addition to the Disney-Pixar family of films. Brave opens June 22 in theaters everywhere. I cannot wait to see Brave again and know it will be my favorite for quite some time.

Disclaimer: I was provided free passes to see a screening of Brave with my family but as with all reviews, my opinions were my own and not affected.

NEW Brave Movie Trailers Hit The Target for Fun

18 May 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Get it? Target? Archery? Brave? Oh well, bad puns aside…As June 22 approaches, DisneyPixar is releasing even more trailers and promotions for Brave, including a hysterical “Are you BRAVE enough to wear a kilt” video below:

And the newest trailer, the full story we’ve seen bits of before, revealing how Merida’s father Fergus lost his leg from the bear attack:

With the Merida characters now appearing on both coasts’ Disney Parks, the excitement is building for the family release of the summer.

Photo courtesy of DisneyBelle on flickr

Disney Pixar BRAVE Trailer “The Prize” With Gorgeous New Poster

27 February 2012 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

During the Pixar presentation at D23’s Expo in Anaheim last August, lucky attendees were shown this clip of Brave – opening in theatres June 22. We were unable to share it until now – and finally, the world can see it! Once again, it is simply stunning, and I do not have enough words to describe how excited I am for this film!

And here’s a bonus clip – the commercial that aired during Sunday’s Academy Awards ceremonies – the music was so lovely, I had to share it here: [the Gaelic song is Tha Mo Ghaol Air Aird A’ Chuain by Julie Fowlis.]

Lastly, a brand new, even more vibrant poster for Brave: (click to see full-size)

See you at the movies on June 22!

Finding Nemo 3D Trailer-Just Keep Swimming This Fall!

23 January 2012 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

DUDE!

The DisneyPixar instant classic that taught us to leave our comfort zone, explore our world, and just keep swimming is coming back to theatres in crystal-clear 3D. The beautiful undersea universe created by Pixar’s computer animation is perfect for the transformation to 3D. This Fall, we’ll laugh, cry and remember that fish are friends, not food, once again. Enjoy the trailer below, or, in Whale, ennnnnjooooooooy theeeeeee traaaaaaaaaaaillllllllllllllleeeeeeeeeeerrrrrrrrrr!!! 😉

“Like” FINDING NEMO 3D on Facebook

FINDING NEMO returns to theatres for the first time in 3D September 14th, 2012!

REVIEW: The Muppets – Together Again

21 November 2011 by Suzannah Otis 6 Comments

Muppet Show lunchbox — First day of school, with my Muppet Show lunch box, 1978

I can’t remember which came first, my stuffed Kermit doll that rarely ever left my arms, or watching The Muppet Show each Sunday night, like clockwork. What I do know is that I fell instantly in love. Back in the late 70’s and early 80’s, kids growing up didn’t think the Muppets were real, they knew they were.

It was a simpler time of rainbows and unicorns and the Muppets let kids know it was okay to dream. Way before I knew of a magical place called Walt Disney World, I knew of the magical place called The Muppet Theatre. I wanted so badly to be able to sit in the audience, or better yet, visit backstage with Scooter.

When The Muppet Movie was released back in 1979, we were able to see where the Muppets came from and they became even more endeared to us. Famed film critic Roger Ebert had this to say about the original Muppet Movie:

“They turn out, somehow, to have many of the same emotions and motivations that we do. They are vain and hopeful, selfish and generous, complicated and true. They mirror ourselves, except that they’re a little nicer.“

So very true.

For fans like me, the Muppets never really went away, but I can understand how an entire generation really doesn’t have that Muppet upbringing to draw from. When Jim Henson passed away in 1990, I actually grieved. I was about to graduate high school in the coming year and it was as if my childhood was ending in more ways than one. We were lucky to soon have the Muppets living on at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, but it wasn’t quite the same as having those jokes and skits each week, or full-length feature films of our favorite furry friends (aside from the themed movies putting the Muppets into classic tales). For that reason, I am so grateful to Jason Segel for making it his mission to bring the Muppets back to the big screen. {Some spoilers may be contained below, continue reading at your own risk}

The Muppets cast — The cast of characters, old and new

I was lucky enough to attend a media screening of The Muppets last Saturday. I am already a fan of Jason Segel’s writing and acting, so I was excited to see where The Muppets took us. I was not disappointed. The Muppets opens with the story of Walter and Gary, brothers who grew up doing everything together. While Gary (Jason Segel) continued to grow in height, Walter stayed the same. Walter bares more resemblance to say, Scooter than he does Gary, so things got a little tough for him. When Walter and Gary discovered The Muppet Show on their television, Walter found a new reason for living. He became the Muppets biggest fan.

Similar to the original three Muppet films, The Muppets focuses more on the Muppets story than the humans. With the usual musical and dance numbers, the Muppet and human cast acknowledge that there is an audience watching. It lets us not only get in on the joke, but be a part of it. The story then focuses on Gary’s trip to Los Angeles with his girlfriend of 10 years, Mary, (Amy Adams). Gary brings his brother along for the vacation and Walter’s dreams of taking the Muppet Studios tour is about to come true. The Studios are the first stop, and Walter is shocked to see they have fallen into disrepair and are for the most part abandoned.

Walter sneaks into Kermit’s old office where he overhears the villain of the story, oil barron Tex Richman, discussing his plans to demolish the studios and drill for oil. When the loophole of the “Standard Rich and Famous Contract” is brought to light, I couldn’t help but smile at the reference to the original Muppet Movie. Walter knows they have to find Kermit and save the Studios, no small task as the price to buy it back is 10 million dollars, and no one knows where the Muppets are today. As they travel across the globe to retrieve Muppets and put on a Muppet telethon, we see pieces of Muppet history from the movies and show, mixed with slapstick humor and puns.

The rest of the film is full of heartwarming nods to the past that older fans will recognize, and plenty of laughs for a new generation. Lines like “may I suggest we save time and pick up the rest of the Muppets in a montage?” and “we can travel by map!” let you know these are the Muppets we know and love. Some fun new moments for me included the Swedish Chef and Camilla the Chicken getting subtitles, so we finally knew what they were saying. While there are a host of guest star cameos and a subplot about Gary and Mary, the real story is about the Muppets, friendship, and how growing up doesn’t have to mean growing apart.

I won’t give away all of the movie, but I will admit to tearing up when the Muppet telethon begins with the original Muppet Show opening. It was truly magical to see it unfold live before your eyes, and to know that my children will now love and appreciate the Muppets and learn from them as I did so many years ago.

Kermit sang those famous words 32 years ago; “Someday we’ll find it, the rainbow connection…” while Gonzo later crooned, “I’m going to go back there someday…” Well, I think we’ve done both. Welcome back, Muppets. We’re so happy you are Together Again.

The 7-minute short which precedes The Muppets is a hysterical piece of work from Pixar, featuring the Toy Story gang back again, including Bonnie, beneficiary to Andy’s toys. “Small Fry” takes a look at some fast food kids meal toys, and how they just want to be played with too. Jane Lynch stars as the voice of Neptuna, a discarded mermaid warrior toy and leader of the discarded toy support group. The names and types of abandoned toys got laugh after laugh in the theatre; pure genius! Make sure you arrive on time to the theatre so you don’t miss this one!

The Muppets opens nationwide on November 23.