Walt Disney Animation

D23 EXPO 2022 Planning Tips: Pixar and Walt Disney Animation Studios to Share Never-Before-Seen Footage, Experiences

14 July 2022 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Disney Pixar ELEMENTAL — In a city where fire-, water-, land- and air-residents live together, a fiery young woman and a go-with-the-flow guy are about to discover something elemental: How much they actually have in common. Directed by Peter Sohn and produced by Denise Ream, Disney and Pixar’s “Elemental” releases June 16, 2023. Concept art by Sohn. © 2022 Disney/Pixar. All Rights Reserved.

The Pixar and Walt Disney Animation Studios presentations are perhaps one of the most exciting parts of the D23 Expos that take place in Anaheim, California every two years. I still remember the goosebumps when I saw some unfinished animation for Moana at the 2017 Expo. It’s truly a gift to get these glimpses into future projects and see how they are finished when they appear in theaters. This year at the 2022 D23 Expo, there will be tons of never-before-seen footage, presentations, and archives displays from Pixar and Walt Disney Animation Studios. I know I can’t wait to see all of this in person! You can plan your D23 Expo time based on the time schedule below. We’ll have more updates as we receive them from D23. Here are the official details:

Pixar and Walt Disney Animation Studios are prepping for Disney’s D23 Expo 2022 presented by Visa in Anaheim, California—a three-day extravaganza that kicks off September 9. Plans are underway at the animation powerhouses for an exciting weekend of announcements, first looks, sneak peeks, and presentations surrounding upcoming feature films and streaming titles—plus interactive displays, artist autograph signings, sharable photo opportunities, filmmaker Q&As, and giveaways.

LOOKING AHEAD WITH THE WALT DISNEY STUDIOS
Friday, September 9, 3:30 p.m., Hall D23
Disney Animation and Pixar are teaming up with Disney Live Action on Friday afternoon, welcoming thousands of Disney fans to Hall D23 for a special look at upcoming films and series. Pixar Animation Studios’ Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter and Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Chief Creative Officer Jennifer Lee will present never-before-seen footage, surprise announcements, musical performances, and appearances by all-star voice talent from the studios’ upcoming slate of original animated films and series. Fans will get an insider’s view at Pixar’s unique, perspective-shifting, long-form series Win or Lose, which launches on Disney+ next year. Pixar’s Peter Sohn, who helms the 2023 feature Elemental, will transport fans to a city where fire-, water-, land-, and air-residents live side by side. Disney Animation’s Academy Award^®-winning director Don Hall will journey alongside fans deep into an uncharted and treacherous land with Strange World—releasing November 23—and Disney Animation and their collaborators from the Pan-African comic book company Kugali will reveal new details about Iwájú, a long-form sci-fi series set in Lagos, Nigeria, that launches on Disney+ next year. Cell phones, cameras, and all recording devices will be checked for this presentation.

Disney Animation STRANGE WORLD — Walt Disney Animation Studios’ original action-adventure “Strange World” journeys deep into an uncharted and treacherous land where fantastical creatures await the legendary Clades, a family of explorers whose differences threaten to topple their latest—and by far— most crucial mission. Helmed by director Don Hall (Oscar®-winning “Big Hero 6,” “Raya and the Last Dragon”) and co-director/writer Qui Nguyen (co-writer “Raya and the Last Dragon”), and produced by Roy Conli (“Big Hero 6,” “Tangled”), “Strange World” releases November 23, 2022. © 2021 Disney. All Rights Reserved.

SHOW FLOOR
September 9 through 11, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily
As Walt Disney Animation Studios kicks off its 100-year anniversary celebration, the studio will showcase its past, present, and future throughout D23 Expo 2022. They’ll team up once again with Pixar Animation Studios on the show floor, creating an immersive animation experience for fans. The studios’ upcoming original feature films, including Disney Animation’s Strange World, releasing this November, and Pixar’s June 2023 release, Elemental, will be highlighted. A six-foot-tall red panda will greet fans, celebrating Pixar’s Turning Red, now streaming on Disney+, and a photo op with Buzz Lightyear and his robot companion cat Sox from the now-in-theaters film Lightyear will be available. Disney Animation will invite guests into the realms of Strange World, Encanto, and more through engaging photo experiences. Fans will also get opportunities to meet the teams behind the series and movies, with autograph signings of exclusive art and promotional item giveaways.

ANIMATION PANELS
Friday, September 9
“traceback”: Celebrating the People of Walt Disney Animation Studios is scheduled for 11:45 a.m.– 12:45 p.m. on the Hyperion Stage.

The Walt Disney Animation Research Library presents “traceback,” a look at the lives and work as well as the artistic and technical contributions of women and employees of color throughout the history of Walt Disney Animation Studios.

Saturday, September 10
A Century of Storytelling at Walt Disney Animation Studios is scheduled for 2–3 p.m. on the Walt Disney Archives Stage.

The Walt Disney Animation Research Library celebrates 100 years of Disney Animation storytelling by highlighting the stories and people behind key art and artifacts in its collection.

A Celebration of Disney Animation’s “Encanto” will take place from 3:30–4:30 p.m. on the Premiere Stage.

Join the team behind Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Academy Award^®-winning hit Encanto for stories behind the making of the film—and a few surprises!

Sneak Peek at “Zootopia+” from Walt Disney Animation Studios will take place from 6–7 p.m. on the Backlot Stage.

Get a first look at the highly anticipated animated series Zootopia+, coming to Disney+ from Walt Disney Animation Studios, with directors Josie Trinidad and Trent Correy.

Sunday, September 11
100 Years of Treasures from the Walt Disney Animation Research Library is scheduled for 2–3 p.m. on the Backlot Stage.

Never-before-seen clips, recording sessions, and live-action reference mark 100 years of Walt Disney Animation Studios as the Animation Research Library unveils newly digitized media from its collection and from its Oral History Project, in which the legends of animation have been interviewed.

You can see our additional D23 Expo coverage and follow along with us on social media:

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Trailer and Posters for Disney’s Encanto

8 July 2021 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

I just watched the trailer for Encanto, and wow, what a feast for the eyes! I hadn’t really heard much about this movie since its first announcement but the visuals are completely amazing! The new Encanto posters and trailer are a must-see!

If you haven’t heard about it either, here is the official info from Disney: Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Encanto,” the tale of an extraordinary family, the Madrigals, who live hidden in the mountains of Colombia in a magical house, in a vibrant town, in a wondrous, charmed place called an Encanto. The all-new original film features the voice of Stephanie Beatriz as Mirabel, an ordinary 15-year-old who’s struggling to find her place in her family. “Mirabel is a really funny, loving character who also deeply yearns for something more,” says Beatriz. “She’s also not afraid to stand up for what she knows is right—something I love and relate to very much.

“I’m Colombian on my father’s side, and playing this role fills me with immense pride,” continues Beatriz. “As a Disney kid, I’d burn through my VHS tapes and adored every single magical story that the world of Disney introduced me to. I learned in those that stories that anything is possible, especially if you believe in magic and the goodness rooted deep inside us all.”

In the film, the magic of the Encanto has blessed every child in the family with a unique gift from super strength to the power to heal—every child except one, Mirabel. But when she discovers that the magic surrounding the Encanto is in danger, Mirabel decides that she, the only ordinary Madrigal, might just be her exceptional family’s last hope. The voice cast also includes María Cecilia Botero, Wilmer Valderrama, Adassa, Diane Guerrero, Mauro Castillo, Angie Cepeda, Jessica Darrow, Rhenzy Feliz and Carolina Gaitan.

“COLOMBIA, MI ENCANTO”

The new Encanto trailer includes an original song from the film, “Colombia, Mi Encanto,” performed by 17-time GRAMMY® and Latin GRAMMY winner, singer, songwriter and actor Carlos Vives, who’s a native of Santa Marta, Colombia. “This song is a celebration of the magical diversity of Colombia,” says Vives. “I can’t wait to see how the music will blend with the images and the characters inspired by the ‘encanto’ of Colombians.”

The film features all-new songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda (“Hamilton,” “Moana”) and is directed by Byron Howard (“Zootopia,” “Tangled”) and Jared Bush (co-director “Zootopia”), co-directed by Charise Castro Smith (writer “The Death of Eva Sofia Valdez”) and produced by Clark Spencer and Yvett Merino. Bush and Castro Smith are screenwriters on the film. The filmmakers were deeply inspired by their research trip to Colombia during early development of “Encanto,” as well as their continuous work with a group of expert consultants assembled through the course of the film’s production. Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Encanto” opens in theaters November 24, 2021.

Follow along here, and of course stay tuned to Zannaland for more info and a review when it comes out! Are you excited to see this new Disney animated film? Let us know in the comments!

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REVIEW: Zootopia is a Whole New World of Disney Animation

3 March 2016 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

I will admit it, when I first heard about and saw snippets about Zootopia, I wasn’t super excited. “Another movie about animals that can talk,what will make this one any different,” I thought. I then saw the sloth DMV scene at the D23 Expo, laughed, and thought it had some promise. I do love Jason Bateman, and hearing him as the voice of Nick Wilde for over an hour couldn’t be too bad, right? Once home from the D23 Expo over the summer, I kind of forgot about it until recently, when I was able to attend a screening. I had seen a few little promo pieces about it, and saw that they were trying to make the Zootopia universe relatable by changing common things we were used to with “Z” words (zoogle rather than google, zuber rather than uber, etc.) I was then worried that it would be too corny, trying too hard. But really, that’s only in the marketing. In the actual movie, I was relieved to see, the gags and puns are little rewards for keen-eyed observers.

As a side note, I’ve found, in recent years, Disney marketing does tend to go a little overboard on the jokes of site gags found within its animated films, as if trying to ensure these things catch on and “go viral.” While I totally understand this is a necessary evil of marketing on this scale, it’s no less annoying, to me personally, and really makes me wish I could just watch things sight un-seen and make my own judgments from there. But then again, I’m not a typical movie-going Disney fan. I don’t laugh at all the jokes I’m supposed to, and do tend to like more subtle attempts at both humor and any moral-of-the-story lessons. So, maybe it’s just me.

In any event, I was proven wrong in my pre-judgment of Zootopia. Very wrong. I loved it and I think it has the true distinction of being engaging and relatable to everyone and every age. In addition, the universe created for the film and the city of Zootopia is absolutely amazing and so infinitely detailed, I want to live in each of the distinct little areas of their world. The opening scene of the movie tells all the backstory you need to know about both our main character, Judy Hopps, and the world of Zootopia itself. The different neighborhoods are perfect homes for the various types of animals best suited to that environment; Sahara Square for desert animals, the Rain Forest District for those used to jungle environments, Tundratown for polar bears and other cold-weather animals, along with Bunnyburrow, where Judy is from, and Little Rodentia, for the tiniest mammals (the scenes in this area are among my favorite in the movie), while the downtown area Savanna Central, is a bustling city environment where animals from every climate and environment come together to work and live.

Judy Hopps is, at the end of the day, a glass half full kind of bunny. She is an eternal optimist, not only in life, but in her own self-confidence. Despite the motto of Zootopia being “where anyone can be anything,” there is a sort of unwritten rule that in certain situations (when bunnies want to become police officers for example), that isn’t really the case. Judy is determined to prove them wrong, and most importantly, prove to herself that she can be and do anything, and do it well. What follows when Judy does graduate as the first bunny from the police academy, is, at the heart of it all, a buddy comedy. I can actually picture the storyline of Zootopia (minus some animal-specific aspects) translating to a live-action film with humans rather than animals, and that’s perhaps the best compliment for the writing and strength of the plot.

Another major-yet-more-subtle subplot to the movie is the idea of prejudice, profiling of different types of people (or animals in this case). As mentioned above, the animals in Zootopia may claim to be evolved and accepting of all different types of species and allowing them to be anything they want, but there are several lines and situations within the film that directly correlate to our own real-world racial profiling and embarrassingly stereotypical actions – “other bunnies can call each other cute, but other animals can’t call a bunny cute” for example. This may go over the average kid’s head as a funny throw-away line, but adults watching know where it’s coming from, and if it sparks conversation among parents to their kids, all the better. In any event, I love when “kids movies” don’t pander to kids and leave modern and important themes out of the mix. It is possible to have a fun story, animated characters, and important life lessons in one film. Zootopia does that with ease.

I won’t drone on with (much) more analysis of plotlines and characters, but I will say (again) that I loved Zootopia, I loved the message that it tells, and how it tells it. There was not a princess in site, and there was absolutely no feeling of “oh, this is a female empowerment theme” because the whole point of the story is literally, anyone can do anything, and that they should, if they want to. That we shouldn’t judge others based on preconceived notions, and although someone may do something differently than us, it doesn’t mean it’s any less right or valid. And I loved that take-away. I took my 7 year-old son to the screening I saw, and I love that he was exposed to those messages probably without even realizing it. Judy Hopps failed a few times, but kept going, learning all along the way. Nick Wilde lived his life one way because he thought that’s how he had to, and learned that he could and should do more. I hope it sticks in his little sponge-like brain to – as pop sensation Gazelle (played by Shakira) sang in the movie – “Try Everything.”

This was a movie I instantly wanted to see again, and cannot wait till I can do just that. The animation itself is gorgeous, robust and detailed. The character acting is great too, Idris Elba as the Chief of Police is so fun to listen to, as is J.K. Simmons as the mayor, and Nate Torrence as the lovable police station cop, Clawhauser.

I’m excited for Zootopia to be released and have a presence in Disney parks. A meet and greet has already been announced for Disney California Adventure, and Judy and Nick will join the “Move It! Shake It! Dance & Play It!” Street Party at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, both happening this spring. My son has already asked for a Zootopia backpack and lunchbox, so that means the movie has reached Star Wars level approval ratings in our home.

I’d love to hear what you think if you see Zootopia this weekend!

Disclaimer: I attended a free screening of this film in order to write this review. As you can see, my thoughts and opinions are my own.

February DVD and Blu-Ray Releases from Disney

13 February 2015 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

This has been a busy few weeks for Disney DVD and Blu-ray releases, and I think you’ll find there’s something for everyone in the list below. First, a trio of Studio Ghibli films are now available in beautiful HD picture and sound. Pom Poko, Porco Rosso, and Tales from Earthsea are all available as of 2/3/15 to add to your collection.

On the live-action front, Alexander and theTerrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day is available as of 2/10 to help out on those really bad days when it feels like everything that can go wrong has and will. There’s also a sweepstakes related to this film, so keep reading to learn more.

Lastly, everyone’s favorite personal home healthcare companion, Baymax and the entire Big Hero 6 gang are soaring to dvd on 2/24. They’ve included some fun bonus features, including the short film Feast, featuring the adorable and heartwarming Winston the dog. Scroll down to learn more about these new and upcoming releases and add them to your Disney film library today!

Disney Presents Studio Ghibli Films: POM POKO, PORCO ROSSO, and TALES FROM EARTHSEA

It’s no secret that I am a huge Studio Ghibli and Hayao Miyazaki fan. The stories these films tell and the beautiful animation are works of art which almost always have a lesson to learn about ourselves, or the world we live in. The best part is that as Disney releases more and more Studio Ghibli films in HD quality Blu-ray and DVDs, we can experience these works of art again and again. Now two of the original Studio Ghibli films have been released in HD, as well as the recent Tales from Earthsea. Read on below for synopses if you haven’t already seen these films, as well as what bonus features are included:

Synopsis:

POM POKO

Studio Ghibli presents a film about the clash between modern civilization and the natural world from acclaimed director Isao Takahata. The raccoons of the Tama Hills are being forced from their homes by the rapid development of houses and shopping malls. As it becomes harder to find food and shelter, they decide to band together and fight back. The raccoons practice and perfect the ancient art of transformation until they are even able to appear as humans. In often hilarious ways, the raccoons use their powers to try to scare off the advance of civilization. But will it be enough? Or will the raccoons learn how to live in balance with the modern world? Celebrate the magic of the forest and the beauty of the creatures who live among us in “Pom Poko”—now on Disney Blu-ray for the first time ever.

PORCO ROSSO

Take flight with “Porco Rosso,” a valiant World War I flying ace! From tropical Adriatic settings to dazzling aerial maneuvers, this action-adventure from world-renowned animator Hayao Miyazaki is full of humor, courage and chivalry. When “Porco”—whose face has been trans- formed into that of a pig by a mysterious spell—infuriates a band of sky pirates with his aerial heroics, the pirates hire Curtis, a rival pilot, to get rid of him. On the ground, the two pilots compete for the affections of the beautiful Gina. But it’s in the air where the true battles are waged. Will our hero be victorious? For the first time ever on Disney Blu-ray, “Porco Rosso” is a thrilling ride you’ll never forget!

TALES FROM EARTHSEA

An epic animated adventure directed by Goro Miyazaki, “Tales From Earthsea” features the voices of Timothy Dalton, Willem Dafoe, Cheech Marin and Mariska Hargitay. Based on the classic “Earthsea” fantasy book series by Ursula K. Le Guin, “Tales From Earthsea” is set in a mythical world filled with magic and bewitchment. In the land of Earthsea, crops are dwindling, dragons have reappeared and humanity is giving way to chaos. Journey with Lord Archmage Sparrowhawk, a master wizard, and Arren, a troubled young prince, on a tale of redemption and self-discovery as they search for the force behind the mysterious imbalance that threatens to destroy their world. Featuring a timeless story and magnificent hand-drawn animation, “Tales From Earthsea” is now available for the first time ever on Disney Blu-ray.

Bonus Features: POM POKO – Original Japanese Storyboards, Original Japanese Trailers

PORCO ROSSO – Original Japanese Storyboards, Original Japanese Trailer, Interview with Toshio Suzuki, Behind the Microphone

TALES FROM EARTHSEA – Original Japanese Storyboards, Original Japanese Trailers & TV Spots, the Birth of the Film Soundtrack, Origins of Earthsea

Also out this month is the live-action interpretation of the beloved children’s book Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day. As a mom of 3, I know we all sometimes have these kind of days, and it’s always interesting when you realize that perhaps you aren’t alone in your “very bad day” (and I know it’s always great when our kids figure this out too!). Alexander… is available now on Blu-ray Combo Pack and Digital HD and is the inaugural recipient of the Common Sense Seal. Find out more including a family photo sweepstakes:

Synopsis: Disney’s heartwarming comedy will have your entire family laughing out loud. Based on the best-selling book, it follows the exploits of Alexander as he experiences the most terrible and horrible day of his young life and wonders if bad things only happen to him. But he discovers he’s not alone when his dad (Steve Carell), mom (Jennifer Garner) and family live through their own terrible – and hilarious – day. It will tickle everyone’s funny bone, and warm their hearts as they discover how even on rotten days, families can grow closer.

Bonus Features:
(Digital HD*, Disney Movies Anywhere, Blu-ray)
Alexander…In Real Life
Snappy Crocs & Punch Roos: The Australian Outback Party
Walkabout: A Video Diary
And The Delightful, Magnificent, Very Good Bloopers
“Hurricane” by the Vamps – Music Video

DVD Snappy Crocs & Punch Roos: The Australian Outback Party
“Hurricane” by the Vamps – Music Video

Alexander Funny Family Photos Sweepstakes

Show us your funny family photos! Now you can share those silly, awkward, funny photos that capture the moments that make you laugh out loud! Enter today through March 4, 2015 for the chance to win a four-day, three-night relaxing vacation for four to the Aulani Disney Resort and Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaii. The package includes hotel, roundtrip airfare and airport/hotel transfer. Please note, the vacation must be taken from May 21-25, 2015.

Check out the contest Do’s and Don’ts before entering on Disney.com or through the Disney Applause app (available for iOS and Android).

Grand Prize includes:

4-day/3-night stay for 4 at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawai’i
Roundtrip airfare
Airport/hotel transfers
Must travel before 9/15/15

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Void where prohibited. Open to persons of all ages, who are, as of entry, legal residents of, and physically located within, the 50 United States or D.C. Minors must get parent’s permission to enter. Sweepstakes begins on 2/11/15 at 12:00:00 (noon) PM (PT) and ends on 3/4/15 at 11:59:59 PM (PT). Limit one (1) submission per person per day. Many Will Enter. One Will Win. Winner will be selected at random. Click here for Official Rules for full eligibility and submission details.

Last but not least (Baymax is a pretty big and huggable guy after all), Big Hero 6 is out on 2/24 in Digital HD/3D/SD, Blu-ray Combo Pack/DVD and Disney Movies Anywhere. My whole family loved Big Hero 6 and we are so excited to add this to our Disney movie collection. It was such a great combination of Marvel comic book action and Disney heart. The bonus features with gag animations and easter egg clip were really fun to watch too. Not to mention (well, I guess I am) the aww-inducing Feast short film. This is definitely a must-add for your movie collection. Here are all the details:

BONUS: Digital HD/3D/SD*, Blu-ray Combo Pack & Disney Movies Anywhere (DMA)

FEAST Theatrical Short
The Origin Story of “Big Hero 6”: Hiro’s Journey (hosted by Jamie Chung, voice of Go Go Tomago) – Join the team behind the team that brought Big Hero 6 to the big screen as they travel on research trips to Tokyo and San Francisco and go behind the scenes of this epic film. Explore everything comic-book about Big Hero 6, from director Don Hall’s passion for comics to the story’s roots in a lesser known Marvel property. We’ll talk to Marvel’s Joe Quesada and Jeph Loeb, who were consultants on the film, to learn what makes a good comic-book story, and how these devices were used to help create Disney’s “Big Hero 6.”
Big Animator 6: The Characters Behind the Characters – Join the six lead animators of Big Hero 6 as they talk about each of the characters and how they came to be the heroes they are now.
Deleted Scenes (intro by Directors Don Hall & Chris Williams) – Includes two alternate openings and more.
Big Hero Secrets (Easter Egg) – The movie is filled with Easter Eggs, and this Buzzfeed-type list piece will give you a sampling of some of the hidden treasures in the film. See if you can find this Easter Egg about Easter Eggs! (BLU-RAY ONLY)
Gag Animations (intro by Directors Don Hall & Chris Williams) – For fun, animators made alternate versions of scenes they were working on and threw them into the mix at review sessions. The directors will present some of these gags for the first time to the public in this piece. (DMA ONLY)
Beatmax – Check out some of Baymax’s greatest lines auto-tuned like you’ve never heard before. (DMA ONLY)

DVD:

FEAST Theatrical Short
Big Animator 6: The Characters Behind the Characters
“Big Hero 6” Theatrical Teaser

Click below to bring home these titles today! (affiliate links)

Amazon.com Widgets

Disclaimer: I was provided with these films for the purposes of review, my opinions are my own. Thanks for reading!

Edited to add: Just announced: Into the Woods will be released on March 24, 2015! Lots of great bonus features will be seen when this comes out! I can’t wait!

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

Never-Before-Seen Sondheim Original Song: “She’ll Be Back”

Meryl Streep performs a compelling new song that sheds a little more light on the Witch’s relationship with Rapunzel. This never-before- seen composition was penned especially for this movie by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine, and is seen here exclusively on Blu-ray and EHV. With introduction by Director Rob Marshall.

There’s Something About The Woods

Journey into this mysterious forest to discover how this compelling, new musical was made. Meet Director Rob Marshall and his award-winning team of artists and craftspeople, see how the woods were brought to life…and what they represent to the story…and to all of us.

The Cast As Good As Gold

Emily Blunt. Anna Kendrick. Chris Pine. James Corden. Johnny Depp. Meryl Streep. Meet the remarkable cast of this musical movie, and hear of their affinity for this Broadway classic.

Deeper Into The Woods

Journey even further into the development of the film in these 4 segments

o From Stage To Screen

o Magic of the Woods

o Designing the Woods

o The Costumes of the Woods

Filmmaker Commentary

Film commentary with Director Rob Marshall and Producer John DeLuca.

Music & Lyrics

Get direct access to the musical song segments from the film, with optional sing-along lyrics.

5 Golden Eggs (Easter Eggs)

First Look: Disney Animation’s Next Short – “Feast”

24 April 2014 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

The tradition of opening an animated feature film with a short, adopted from the Pixar films, is continuing with the next full-length animated film – Big Hero 6, opening on November 7, 2014. The newest short will be called “Feast” and comes to us from first-time director Patrick Osborne, who was the head of animation in the now beloved, “Paperman” and Walt Disney Animation Studios. “Feast” tells the story of one man’s love life as seen through the eyes of his best friend, his dog Winston. The story we share is shown to us bite by bite through the meals they share together. “Feast” will make its world premier at the Annecy International Animated Film Festival on June 10, 2014.

Here is the first image from the short, revealed today:

We’ll bring you more images, info and trailers on Feast and Big Hero 6 as they become available!

Disney’s Polynesian Princess Moana Art: Fact or Fiction?

24 January 2014 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

This little bit of news slipped under my radar when first announced back in July on Rotoscopers. There was more discussion back in December when a supposed piece of concept art was released, then pulled for not being official. That artwork is now making the rounds again, which is how I saw it on twitter yesterday. The artwork made me excited, official or not, and I thought if nothing else, getting the word out there to share interest in this upcoming film and its subject, couldn’t hurt. So what is Moana going to be about? Think Tiki!

According to BlueSkyDisney.com:

“After a short break we’ll finally get Ron [Clements] and John [Musker]’s next feature, “Moana” which will be a Polynesian tale involving the island folk and the idols made famous the world over. It will also mark the directing duo’s first computer animated film, or at least computer hybrid animated film (think “Paperman”). Following that, if story issues are worked out Dean Wellin’s teenage space race animated film will rush to the screens. Wellin’s film is an unusual story that is different from most Disney Animation, just as Big Hero 6 marks a change in perception of what comes from the Mouse.”

More details, from BleedingCool.com were first broken in October:

“…it’s an epic, or even mythic, adventure set around 2000 years ago and across a series of islands in the South Pacific.

The lead character, Moana Waialiki is the only daughter of a Chief in a long line of navigators. She’s really a bit of nerd, but a nerd about sea voyaging, and when her family need her help, she sets off on an epic journey. Some of the other characters are demi-gods and spirits drawn from real mythology.”

Given those details, I may be on board with the following image not being official or from Moana at all. Being obsessed with navigating the sea doesn’t seem to match with splashing around on a rock in a grotto…but it is pretty nonetheless! It reminds me instantly of Shag‘s work, but concept art has surprised us before, so who knows. This image below is reportedly by artist Sue Nichols.

More than just the artwork controversy above, I can’t wait to see this tale unfold. I think tiki culture is something that has intrigued us for decades; its mysterious, tropical allure has survived for centuries and certainly risen to the heights of pop culture since the 1950’s. I look forward to another potential princess that doesn’t have her future gift-wrapped for her by way of a magic wand, and hope Disney has learned from the successes of Merida in Brave and Anna in Frozen (and to an extend Rapunzel too). And obviously, any time Disney can use its platform to explore, educate and promote other cultures and backgrounds, and give little girls (and boys) someone to identify with, I’m all for it.

As far as the tiki gods and their role in the story, I hope we get a reverent history lesson rather than bathroom humor and goofy sidekicks. This is something which Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli have done for years and years with great success. Proof that animation can be for adults as well as children and we don’t need to rely on some formula of strife + main character + comic relief + happy ending = the only way. If the story is good, audiences will come. Anyway, I’ll get off my fangirl soapbox for now and just hope we get a Polynesian Princess we can all be proud of.

Moana will be a musical, with music composed by Mark Mancina, responsible for music arranging on The Lion King, Tarzan, and Brother Bear among many others.

Review: Frozen Took Me By Surprise and Melted My Heart

26 November 2013 by Suzannah Otis 3 Comments

I will fully admit, as I saw the endless promotion for Disney’s 53rd Animated Feature, Frozen start to begin, I was less than interested. Olaf the Snowman, clearly designed to appeal to the youngest of Disney fans, didn’t excite me at all. I wanted to know more about the story of Frozen: the sisters, their background, what happened to them and why. Not watch a lop-sided snowman chase his carrot nose for an hour. Adding in Sven, the reindeer who seemed like a carbon-copy of Max the canine-like horse from Tangled, and I didn’t hold out much hope for Frozen. I was given some images from Disney showing background animation and concept art, and that excited me a bit. It was what I was most looking forward to when I attended a screening a couple of weeks ago, but little else.

Then, the theatre darkened and the music began. Rich, hearty Norwegian chanting. It made me sit up and take notice. What followed was me being glued to the edge of my seat, soaking up every pixel of gorgeous animation, every word of enticing story, every note of exquisite music and lyrics. I was, in short, in love. I walked out thinking “This is my new favorite Disney film.” and “I must have this soundtrack.”

Without giving major plot points away, I want to convey how refreshing it was to see this storyline unfold. Not knowing anything about the movie other than there was a silly snowman and a reindeer, I was completely taken in by what I thought was happening and really couldn’t guess the end at all. I loved how the sisters were portrayed, loving each other, caring for each other, and when unable to be together, missing each other. Unlike most previous Disney animated films, the first real main character song fits in so well as something that is really happening, vs. just breaking into a nice song that helps propel the story but seems a little out of place. We learn so much about the sisters’ upbringing in “Do You Want to Build a Snowman” and it’s a beautiful song to boot. We then learn more about Princess Anna in her subsequent songs and really begin to feel for her, as well as Elsa. The whole soundtrack is very Broadway-esque and I instantly thought of Rent when I heard Princess Anna and Hans singing “Love is an Open Door” it’s this kind of refreshingly good music that makes the difference here. Princess Anna is pretty identifiable (at least personally) – she may be a princess but she’s clumsy and even a bit gullible and clueless (which could be called trusting and innocent too), and most importantly of all, she wakes up with bedhead. How many other Disney princesses would admit to that? I instantly loved her. While we don’t know much about Elsa after she was hidden away as a child, what we do know is that she was a loving, caring sister. This sisterly bond above all else is an important message of the film.

When Idina Menzel as Elsa, newly crowned as Queen, finally gives in to her icy powers, the resulting “Let it Go” song is perhaps the most powerful moment in the film. The accompanying animation here is beyond amazing as well. You’ll wish you could hit repeat on this section of the movie, it’s that good. THIS is what Frozen is about. Family, secrets, struggles, love, and figuring out how to combine them all and be happy. While I understand the gigantic marketing machine that is the Walt Disney Company and how they must promote and sell merchandise with every movie they produce, I truly wish they could find a way to give the audience some credit and showcase the real highlights of their talented animators work. This film is so much more than has been advertised so far. That said, Olaf is less annoying than I thought he’d be. His song, “In Summer” is pretty classically funny without relying on toddler humor. It reminded me of Josh Gad’s stellar performance in Book of Mormon. It is also refreshing to see Disney working with the guy that wrote the music for Book of Mormon and Avenue Q, unafraid to take risks and push boundaries. Now the marketing team just needs to catch up!

The only disappointments in the film for me were the unnecessary troll characters which were as annoying as I mistakenly thought Olaf would be. They served no real purpose and their song was unmemorable and pointless. However, in listening to outtakes on the Deluxe Edition of the soundtrack, we learn a bit more of the trolls role, which made me wish some of the eliminated songs were actually used. Oh well. The other sad thing was that the talented Jonathan Groff was only given one very short song in the film. I can understand why; the film is really female-focused with the sisters, their bond and how they grow and learn, but I do wish we heard more Jonathan.

All in all, I walked away from this film proud of Walt Disney Animation, amazed by Kristen Anderson Lopez, Robert Lopez and Christophe Beck’s work with the soundtrack, feeling like Princess Anna was my spirit animal, and ready for more Frozen. It is definitely a must-see and a must-see again and again. Disney’s Frozen opens tomorrow, 11/27 and is the perfect way to spend some time during the Thanksgiving holiday. The wonderful soundtrack is available now and I highly recommend investing in the Frozen Deluxe Edition for even more insight into the film-making process with the songwriters commentary before the outtakes and additional pieces of the score. Idina’s “Let it Go” has been on repeat for 24 hours straight here and I don’t see an end in sight. Frozen will melt your heart!

I’d love to hear your thoughts below when you’ve seen the film!

Go Behind the Scenes with Disney Studios at the D23 Expo-More Presentation Info

29 July 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Here is the latest update from D23, with some additional info on who will be appearing at the Walt Disney Studios presentation and other arena shows at the Expo:

Exclusively at Disney’s D23 Expo August 9–11 at the Anaheim Convention Center, Disney fans are invited to explore the incredible roster of film, stage, and music projects on the horizon at The Walt Disney Studios, with a variety of panel discussions, sneak peeks, and exhibits.

This year the Studio will present two arena shows, kicking off the Expo at 10 a.m. Friday, August 9, with “Art and Imagination: Animation at The Walt Disney Studios,” a showcase of upcoming animated films from Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar Animation Studios, and DisneyToon Studios. John Lasseter, Chief Creative Officer of Disney’s Animation Studios, will host a lively exhibition chock-full of never-before-seen footage, celebrity and filmmaker appearances, and live performances from films like Disney’s Frozen, Pixar’s The Good Dinosaur and the Mickey Mouse short Get a Horse!. Then at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, August 10, Walt Disney Studios Chairman Alan Horn, Disney Live Action Production President Sean Bailey, and Marvel Studios President and Producer Kevin Feige will host “Let the Adventures Begin: Live Action at The Walt Disney Studios,” an expedition through the Studio’s exciting live-action offerings from Disney as well as several powerhouse pictures on tap from Marvel Studios, with exclusive clips and surprise guests from a range of films including Saving Mr. Banks, Tomorrowland,Thor: The Dark World, Captain America: The Winter Soldier and much more.

Fans can expect appearances from Kristen Bell and Idina Menzel (Frozen), Dane Cook (Disney’s Planes), Jason Schwartzman and B.J. Novak (Saving Mr. Banks), Ty Burrell (Muppets Most Wanted) and top Marvel and Disney•Pixar talent. And in typical D23 Expo fashion, fans can also anticipate surprise appearances from more of their favorite stars.

In “Broadway & Beyond…Celebrating the Stars of Disney on Broadway,” Friday, August 9 at 6:30 p.m., audiences will take a musical journey with Disney Theatrical Productions President Thomas Schumacher and a bevy of stage stars, including Heidi Blickenstaff (The Little Mermaid), Ashley Brown (Mary Poppins, 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 catalog.

Throughout the weekend, fans will have the opportunity to go behind the scenes with the animation artists at Disney and Pixar with several featured panels, including:

* Inside the Ice: The Art of Disney’s Frozen – Walt Disney Animation Studios’ big-screen comedy adventure Frozen, with its icy setting and colorful cast of characters, presented breathtaking opportunities, plus a few challenges for filmmakers. Join the team behind the movie for an exclusive look at the art and animation of Frozen. (Saturday, August 10, 10:30 a.m.)

* The Art of The Good Dinosaur – Pixar Animation Studios’ latest feature explores what might have happened if the cataclysmic asteroid that forever changed life on Earth actually missed the planet completely and giant dinosaurs never became extinct. Take a closer look at this imaginative world of possibility and the artistry and production design behind it. (Saturday, August 10, 3 p.m.)

* Toy Story OF TERROR! and the Motivation Behind Pixar’s Short Form Content – From toys on vacation to tow-riffic four wheelers, Pixar keeps some of their most beloved characters alive and well through short-form content. Angus MacLane, director of Toy Story OF TERROR!, a new adventure featuring Woody, Buzz and the Toy Story gang set for release on TV this fall; producer Galyn Susman; and other Pixar short-form filmmakers share their experiences and discuss the exciting challenges of expanding the worlds of these characters loved by audiences across the globe. (Saturday, August 10, 5 p.m.)

* Pixar: Doing Our Homework – Research is an integral part of the filmmaking process, and with a story in hand, Pixar artists set out to become experts, immersing themselves in places, people and experiences that inspire and inform their filmmaking, whether it be spirited Scots, delectable French cuisine, or deep sea adventures. (Friday, August 9, 6 p.m.)

* Women of Pixar – Jessie. Dory. Sally. Merida. Although they never cross paths and exist in different worlds, these iconic Pixar females have one thing in common: girl power. Meet a dynamic group of women from Pixar, whose experience and success at the studio have helped craft some of the most memorable animated films in recent history. They will share stories from their journeys and the lessons they have learned along the way. (Sunday, August 11, 1 p.m.)

Expo attendees will also have access to an Exclusive Screening of Disney’s Planes in 3D, featuring an introduction by some very special guests. (Friday, August 9, 3 p.m.)

As Disney welcomes Lucasfilm into the family, fans will have a chance to delve deep in the Star Wars universe with “Crash Course in the Force: Star Wars Saga 101,” an immersive journey into the rich history of the worldwide phenomenon, led by Lucasfilm’s resident authority Pablo Hidalgo. (Saturday, August 10, 5 p.m.)

Music fans will be treated to performances by Good Luck Charlie star and platinum-selling Hollywood Records artist Bridgit Mendler, and Hollywood Records artists R5, fronted by Teen Beach Movie and Austin & Ally star Ross Lynch. D23 will also present Richard Sherman and Alan Menken, two of the world’s most celebrated songwriters and composers who have won a combined 10 Academy Awards for their work with Disney. In addition, Grammy^® Award-winning producer and resident Disney Music Historian, Randy Thornton, will take fans on a musical journey with inside stories of songs written for classic Disney films.

Out on the Expo floor, fans can explore the world of The Walt Disney Studios at their leisure with comprehensive exhibits, including:

* Walt Disney Animation Studios Pavilion – Attendees can summon their inner artist and escape into diverse worlds of where there’s much to explore, from the stunning snow-covered setting of Frozen to the high-tech, action-packed world of Big Hero 6, featuring the latest animation technology, sneak peeks, and giveaways.

* Disneytoon Studios Pavilion – Aviation aficionados and fairy fans will be on cloud nine as they explore projects including Disney’s Planes and immerse themselves in the world of Pixie Hollow and the magical heroines from Disney’s Fairies with exciting demonstrations and presentations.

* Walt Disney Studios In-Home Entertainment Zones – Dive into cutting-edge home entertainment technology and learn what the future holds for Disney movie fans, with sneak peeks of upcoming films in breathtaking high-definition Blu-ray 3D^™, including new hit films and new-to-Blu classics, the latest on Disney Second Screen and more. Also, the adorable Disney “Buddies” are back with an all-new movie—Super Buddies—coming August 27! Fans can get a picture with one of the real puppy super heroes. They are appearing live at D23 Expo for the first time—Saturday and Sunday!

Tickets for the D23 Expo are $57 for a one-day adult admission and $47 for children 3–12. Tickets for members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club are $50 for a one-day adult admission and $42 for children. Multi-day money-saving tickets are also available for both D23 Members and the general public, and D23 Members can save as much as $84 off the price of admission, based on the purchase of four three-day tickets at the D23 Member rate. For more information on tickets and the ticket pricing structure for members and general admission, visit D23Expo.com.

Disney Studios To Host Two Arena Presentations At D23 Expo 2013-Celebrities and Exclusive Sneak Peeks

16 July 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

The Studios presentation is always a highlight of the D23 Expo and this year, we get two presentations! I can’t wait to see the sneak peeks and which celebrities will be making appearances. Here are the official details below:

D23 Expo 2013 will celebrate its grand opening with a welcome from Disney Chairman and CEO Bob Iger followed by the first of two arena presentations hosted by The Walt Disney Studios at the Anaheim Convention Center. On Friday, August 9, The Walt Disney Studios will surprise and delight fans with sneak peeks of the incredible slate of upcoming animated films from Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar Animation Studios, and Disneytoon Studios, hosted by Chief Creative Officer John Lasseter. Then, on Saturday, August 10, Walt Disney Studios Chairman Alan Horn will host The Walt Disney Studios live action arena presentation which will pull back the curtain on upcoming releases from Disney Live Action and Marvel Studios. Both presentations will feature exclusive clips and behind-the-scenes footage, filmmaker discussions, and surprise celebrity appearances.

The 4,000-seat arena, the largest venue at The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, will for the first time feature a 2,000-seat overflow theater where guests will be able to watch these once-in-a-lifetime happenings though a live feed.

Art and Imagination: Animation at The Walt Disney Studios (Friday, August 9, 10:00 a.m.): Disney and Pixar Chief Creative Officer John Lasseter, filmmakers and star talent will take guests on a journey through The Walt Disney Studios’ slate of upcoming animated features, including Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Frozen and Pixar Animation Studios’ The Good Dinosaur. Plus, catch the U.S. debut of the new Mickey Mouse short Get A Horse!, major movie announcements, and a not-to-be-missed live musical performance.

Let the Adventures Begin: Live Action at The Walt Disney Studios (Saturday, August 10, 10:30 a.m.): The Walt Disney Studios Chairman Alan Horn will showcase the Studios’ exciting live-action release slate, including Disney’s Saving Mr. Banks and Tomorrowland, Marvel’sThor: The Dark World, and much more.

Disney’s FROZEN, the “Coolest” New Movie Yet!

27 June 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Disney does it again, creating an epic comedy adventure with daring, enigmatic characters involved in suspenseful plots. Get ready for Disney’s new movie, “Frozen” in theaters on November 3, 2013!

Walt Disney Animation Studios, the studio behind “Tangled” and “Wreck-It Ralph,” presents “Frozen,” a stunning big-screen comedy adventure. Fearless optimist Anna (voice of Kristen Bell) sets off on an epic journey—teaming up with rugged mountain man Kristoff (voice of Jonathan Groff) and his loyal reindeer Sven—to find her sister Elsa (voice of Idina Menzel), whose icy powers have trapped the kingdom of Arendelle in eternal winter. Encountering Everest-like conditions, mystical trolls and a hilarious snowman named Olaf, Anna and Kristoff battle the elements in a race to save the kingdom. The film is directed by Chris Buck (“Tarzan,” “Surf’s Up”) and Jennifer Lee (screenwriter, “Wreck-It Ralph”), and produced by Peter Del Vecho (“Winnie the Pooh,” “The Princess and the Frog”). Featuring music from Tony® winner Robert Lopez (“The Book of Mormon,” “Avenue Q”) and Kristen Anderson-Lopez (“In Transit”), “Frozen” is in theaters in 3D on November 3, 2013.

Kristen Bell has starred in a variety of films, including the comedies “Forgetting Sarah Marshall” and “Couples Retreat,” and the upcoming films “Hit & Run,” “Some Girls” and the Farrelly Brothers’ “Movie 43.” On the small screen, Bell is currently starring in the Showtime series “House of Lies” alongside Don Cheadle; she has also starred in “Heroes” and “Veronica Mars.” Broadway credits include “The Crucible” and “Tom Sawyer.”

Jonathan Groff appears in “C.O.G.,” which is part of the 2013 Sundance Film Festival. Film credits include “Taking Woodstock,” “Twelve Thirty” and “The Conspirator.” TV credits include Fox’s “Glee,” the Starz series “Boss” and CBS’ “The Good Wife.” Groff received a Tony® nomination for his performance in the Tony Award®-winning musical “Spring Awakening,” and appeared in the Public Theater’s revival of “Hair” and off-Broadway plays “Prayer for My Enemy” and “The Submission,” among others. He made his West End debut in Ira Levin’s “Deathtrap,” and appeared in the 2010 Tony Award®-winning “Red” by John Logan at the Mark Taper Forum.

Robert Lopez is a three-time Tony Award®-winning writer of the Tony and Grammy® Award-winning musical “The Book of Mormon,” which was co-written with Trey Parker and Matt Stone (“South Park”), and the musical “Avenue Q,” which ran for six years on Broadway and four years in London’s West End. Lopez teamed with wife Kristen Anderson-Lopez, whose Drama Desk-winning show “In Transit” is Broadway-bound, to write original songs for 2011’s “Winnie the Pooh,” a stage version of “Finding Nemo” and a new musical called “Up Here.”