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What’s New this February on the Disney Bundle

Disney

Brand new content coming in February to the Disney Bundle! Starting on Disney+, new episodes of Marvel’s WandaVision and the documentary series Inside Pixar: Portraits, all five seasons of The Muppet Show, and the Disney+ Original film Flora & Ulysses! Over on Hulu, critically acclaimed film Nomadland debuts starring Frances McDormand, as well as the Hulu Original film The United States vs. Billie Holiday. And on ESPN+, a brand-new film in the award-winning 30 for 30 Series. You can find the entire list of new content on all three streaming platforms below.

What’s new on Disney+ in February:

Friday, February 5

  • Disney My Music Story: Yoshiki
  • Disney Upside-Down Magic
  • Wicked Tuna: Outer Banks (S7)
  • WandaVision – New Episode

Friday, February 12

  • Life Below Zero: The Next Generation (S1)
  • Marvel Battleworld: Mystery of the Thanostones (S1)
  • Marvel’s Behind the Mask
  • WandaVision – New Episode
  • Inside Pixar: Portraits – New Episodes

A documentary series of personal and cinematic stories that provide an inside look into the people, artistry, and culture of Pixar Animation Studios.

Portraits: Patty Bonfilio, Director of Facility Operations

No two days are the same for Patty Bonfilio. From hosting major events to outfitting offices to simply keeping the studio running, Patty is at the center of it all. As Pixar’s Director of Facility Operations, she knows the inner workings of Pixar’s campus and culture like no one else. Join her on a VIP tour of the grounds and all of its hidden gems.

Portraits: Rachelle Federico, Production Assistant

Rachelle Federico always dreamt of working at Pixar, even if it meant a complete career overhaul. As Production Assistant on Pixar’s Soul, her hard work might not always be that glamorous, but she considers it an important and essential need in the creation of an animated film. Plus, she’s loving every minute of it.

Portraits: Barney Jones, Music Editor

Barney Jones is a master of many musical instruments and styles. As a Music Editor, he uses these talents to help shape the storytelling and emotion of a Pixar film. During his free time, he uses these same talents to make Pixar just a little more magical and fun.

Portraits: Cynthia Lusk, Director of International Production

Director of International Production Cynthia Lusk takes us into the fascinating world of localization. From translations to graphics to even changes in animation, Cynthia and her teamwork to make sure that Pixar’s films can connect and resonate with fans and families throughout the world.

Portraits: Marylou Jaso, Pastry Chef

Marylou Jaso has the sweetest job at Pixar – literally. As Pixar’s Pastry Chef, she spends each day creating the confections and sweet treats that delight, inspire, and help feed the studio’s creativity.

Disney

Friday, February 19

  • The Book of Life
  • Cheaper by the Dozen
  • Cheaper by the Dozen 2
  • The Muppet Show (S1)
  • The Muppet Show (S2)
  • The Muppet Show (S3)
  • The Muppet Show (S4)
  • The Muppet Show (S5)

Disney

  • Flora & Ulysses – Premiere

Disney’s “Flora & Ulysses” is a delightful comedy-adventure based on the Newbery Award-winning book about 10-year old Flora, an avid comic book fan and a self-avowed cynic, whose parents have recently separated. After rescuing a squirrel she names Ulysses, Flora is amazed to discover he possesses unique superhero powers that take them on an adventure of humorous complications that ultimately change Flora’s life–and her outlook—forever.

  • WandaVision – New Episode

Friday, February 26

  • Car Sos (S8)
  • Disney Channel Games 2008 (S1)
  • Disney Illuminations Firework Show Disneyland Paris
  • Disney Pair of Kings (S1)
  • Disney Pair of Kings (S2)
  • Disney Pair of Kings (S3)
  • Disney Roll it Back (S1)
  • Disney’s American Dragon: Jake Long (S1)
  • Disney’s American Dragon: Jake Long (S2)
  • Mickey Go Local (S1)
  • Okavango: River of Dreams
  • Secrets of Sulphur Springs (First 5 Episodes)
  • Shanghai Disney Resort Grand Opening Gala
  • Myth: A Frozen Tale – Premiere

In an enchanted forest outside of Arendelle, a family sits down for a bedtime story and is transported to a vibrant and mystical world where the elemental spirits (inspired by Disney’s global phenomenon, Frozen 2) come to life and the myth of their past and future is revealed.

  • WandaVision – New Episode

What’s new on Hulu in February:

February 1

  • 60 Days In: Complete Season 6 (A&E)
  • Abducted: The Mary Stauffer Story (2019) (Lifetime)
  • Ancient Aliens: Complete Season 14 (History)
  • Bride & Prejudice: Forbidden Love: Complete Season 2 (Lifetime)
  • Forged in Fire: Beat the Judges: Complete Season 1 (History)
  • Kings of Pain: Complete Season 1 (History)
  • Married At First Sight: Complete Season 10 (Lifetime)
  • Mommy is a Murderer (2020) (Lifetime)
  • Pawn Stars: Complete Seasons 11 & 12 (History)
  • The Secret of Skinwalker Ranch: Complete Season 1 (History)
  • Tempted by Danger (2020) (Lifetime)
  • The UnXplained with William Shatner: Complete Season 2 (History)
  • 9 to 5 (1980)
  • Affliction (1998)
  • American Psycho (2000)
  • American Psycho 2 (2002)
  • The Bellboy (1960)
  • Bug (1975)
  • Cinderfella (1960)
  • Crimes Of The Heart (1987)
  • Did You Hear About The Morgans? (2009)
  • District 9 (2009)
  • Downhill Racer (1969)
  • Employee of the Month (2006)
  • Everything Must Go (2011)
  • From Hell (2001)
  • G.I. Jane (1997)
  • Garfield (2004)
  • Gargoyles: Wings of Darkness (2004)
  • Girls! Girls! Girls! (1962)
  • Grosse Pointe Blank (1997)
  • Happy Tears (2010)
  • Haunting In Connecticut 2: Ghosts Of Georgia (2013)
  • Hello, My Name is Doris (2016)
  • Hitman’s Run (1999)
  • Jane Austen’s Mafia! (1998)
  • Jennifer 8 (1992)
  • John Grisham’s The Rainmaker (1997)
  • The Juror (1996)
  • Mars Attacks! (1996)
  • Me, Myself And Irene (2000)
  • Ninja Assassin (2009)
  • The Omen (1976)
  • Damien – Omen II (1978)
  • Only God Forgives (2013)
  • The Patsy (1964)
  • Phase IV (1974)
  • Possessor (2020)

From the visionary mind of writer/director Brandon Cronenberg, Possessor is an arresting sci-fi thriller about elite, corporate assassin Tasya Vos. Using brain-implant technology, Vos takes control of other people’s bodies to execute high profile targets. As she sinks deeper into her latest assignment Vos becomes trapped inside a mind that threatens to obliterate her.

  • The Prince Of Tides (1991)
  • Shirley Valentine (1989)
  • The Shootist (1976)
  • Sideways (2004)
  • Some Kind of Wonderful (1987)
  • Star Trek: The Motion Picture (1979)
  • Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982)
  • Star Trek III: The Search for Spock (1984)
  • Star Trek V: The Final Frontier (1989)
  • Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country (1991)
  • Star Trek: Insurrection (1998)
  • The Tenant (1976)
  • Teresa’s Tattoo (1994)
  • Turbulence (1997)
  • Van Wilder: Party Liaison (2002)
  • Waking Ned Devine (1998)
  • Witness (1985)
  • X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009)
  • You Laugh But It’s True (2011)
  • You’ve Got Mail (1998)

February 2

  • The School That Tried to End Racism: Complete Season 1 (Banijay)


February 4

  • 12 Hour Shift (2020)

February 5

  • The New York Times Presents: “Framing Britney Spears”: New Episode (FX on Hulu)

The meteoric rise and disturbing fall of Britney Spears have devolved into a Kafkaesque court battle that has reawakened her fandom and raised pressing questions about mental health and an individuals’ rights. A re-examination of her career and a new assessment of the movement rallying against her court-mandated conservatorship capture the unsavory dimensions of the American pop-star machine. The series is produced by The New York Times and Left/Right. Executive producers are Jason Stallman, Sam Dolnick, Stephanie Preiss, Ken Druckerman, Banks Tarver, and Mary Robertson.

  • Antebellum (2020)

Successful author Veronica Henley (Janelle Monáe) finds herself trapped in a horrifying reality and must uncover the mind-bending mystery before it’s too late.

February 7

  • Harrow: Season 3 Premiere (ABC Studios)


February 11

  • Then Came You (2019)


February 12

  • Into the Dark: Tentacles: New Episode Premiere (Hulu Original)

Tentacles is a psychosexual horror-thriller about a young Los Angeles couple Tara (Dana Drori) and Sam (Casey Deidrick) who fall head over heels into a new romance, entwining their lives — until their intimacy transforms into something terrifying. Based on a story by Alexandra Pechman & Nick Antosca (The Act, Antlers) the episode takes inspiration from the rushes of early intimacy and uncertain power dynamics at play, and the dangers of losing yourself.

  • 2067 (2020)
  • You’re Next (2013)

February 13

  • Hip Hop Uncovered: Documentary Series Premiere (FX)

From executive producer Malcolm Spellman and Oscar® and Emmy®-winning production company Lightbox, comes Hip Hop Uncovered, and examination of a dying breed of power brokers who operate from the shadows of hip hop. Set against 40 years of music history, this six-part documentary series, directed by Rashidi Natara Harper, takes a deep dive into the paradox of America’s criminalization of the genre and its fascination with the street culture that created it and still exists within it. Instead of telling the story of hip hop from the top-down, Hip Hop Uncovered tells the story from the streets up, as it reveals the untold story of how America’s streets helped shape hip hop culture from an expression of survival and defiance into music’s most dominant genre.

February 15

  • Cutthroat Kitchen: Complete Season 15 (Scripps)
  • Dragnificent!: Complete Season 1 (Discovery)
  • House Hunters International: Complete Seasons 139 & 140 (Scripps)
  • House Hunters: Complete Seasons 160-162, 164 & 165 (Scripps)
  • Property Brothers: Complete Season 14 (Scripps)
  • Southern Gothic: Complete Season 1 (ID)
  • Witches Of Salem: Complete Season 1 (Scripps)
  • Lost Girls and Love Hotels (2020)
  • The Shape of Water (2017)

February 16

  • Bad Habits, Holy Orders: Complete Season 1 (Keshet)

Five party girls abandon booze, boys, and smartphones and move into a Catholic convent for four weeks of life-changing spiritual guidance in this authentic, insightful, and warmly humorous reality series. How will these two vastly different groups cope when the wild materialistic lifestyle of the millennial generation collides with the devoted, simple existence of The Daughters of Divine Charity?

  • Keeping Up With The Kardashians: Complete Season 19 (E!)
  • North Korea: Inside the Mind of a Dictator: Complete Season 1 (National Geographic)
  • The Warrior Queen of Jhansi (2019)

February 17

  • Logan Lucky (2017)

February 18

  • Good Trouble: Season 3 Premiere (Freeform)
  • Sonic the Hedgehog (2020)

The world needed a hero, we got a hedgehog. Powered with incredible speed, Sonic The Hedgehog (voiced by Ben Schwartz), aka The Blue Blur, embraces his new home on Earth. That is, until he accidentally knocks out the power grid and sparks the attention of super-uncool evil genius Dr. Robotnik (Jim Carrey). Now it’s super-villain vs. super-sonic in an all-out race across the globe to stop Robotnik from using Sonic’s unique power for world domination. Sonic teams up with The Donut Lord, aka Sheriff Tom Wachowski (James Marsden), to save the planet in this live-action adventure comedy that’s fun for the whole family.

February 19

  • Nomadland (2021)

Following the economic collapse of a company town in rural Nevada, Fern (Frances McDormand) packs her van and sets off on the road exploring a life outside of conventional society as a modern-day nomad. The third feature film from director Chloé Zhao, Nomadland features real nomads Linda May, Swankie and Bob Wells as Fern’s mentors and comrades in her exploration through the vast landscape of the American West.

February 23

  • Spring Baking Championship: Complete Season 7 (Food Network)
  • Dredd (2012)

February 25

  • Snowfall: Season 4 Premiere (FX)

Business is booming in season four of Snowfall. It’s January 1st, 1985. Ronald Reagan has won his reelection campaign proclaiming it is “morning again in America,” but in South Central, Los Angeles, it feels more like the sun is getting low. The demand for crack cocaine is high, and while our crew of dealers led by Franklin Saint (Damson Idris) are benefitting greatly from the rising tide of addiction, they are also starting to become aware of the damage the drug is doing to the people and to the place they love. With the entire nation taking note, the LAPD is diverting serious money and resources to the “war on drugs.” Politicians’ phones are ringing. Powerful people are concerned from the hallways of The White House to those of CIA headquarters, where there are whispers that one of their own may be involved in this burgeoning epidemic.

February 26

  • The United States vs. Billie Holiday (2021) (Hulu Original)

Billie Holiday, one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time, spent much of her career being adored by fans across the globe. Beginning in the 1940s in New York City, the federal government targeted Holiday in a growing effort to escalate and racialize the war on drugs, ultimately aiming to stop her from singing her controversial and heart-wrenching ballad, “Strange Fruit.”

  • Florence Foster Jenkins (2016)

What’s new on ESPN+ in February:

February 4

  • Al Davis vs. The NFL

The next installment in the Peabody and Emmy award-winning 30 for 30 series, “Al Davis vs. The NFL,” will be available to streaming exclusively on ESPN+ following the film’s debut on ESPN on February 4. Directed by Ken Rodgers (“The Two Bills,” “Elway to Marino”), the documentary presents an intimate look inside one of the great rivalries in the history of the National Football League – former Raiders owner Al Davis and former NFL commissioner Pete Rozelle, whose battle grew so intense that players, owners, franchises – even the League itself – became characters in a three-decade-long Shakespearean feud that changed football forever.

WandaVision, Episodes 1-3: The Story So Far

WandaVision

A lot has happened in the first three episodes of WandaVision on Disney+. Before you watch today’s release of episode 4, we thought a recap of the story so far would be helpful. And while there have been numerous Easter eggs planted throughout, this article will highlight some important ones while avoiding guesswork or theories. Enjoy!

Episode 1 – “Filmed Before a Live Studio Audience”

The series premiere opens with the image of an old tube TV powering on, black and white in the 4 x 3 aspect ratio. We’re reintroduced to our title characters through the opening credits of a 1950s sitcom. Wanda and Vision, the newly married and “regular” couple, are driving straight from their wedding to their new one-story home in the seemingly fictional town of Westview. They pull into their driveway, come inside the house, and embrace for a kiss as the title appears across the screen: WandaVision.

WandaVision
Elizabeth Olsen is Wanda Maximoff and Paul Bettany is Vision in Marvel Studios’ WANDAVISION, exclusively on Disney+.

This episode gives us our first glimpses at Wanda and Vision trying to adjust to a “normal” suburban life. Wanda unpacks using her powers, and Vision prepares for a day at the office. They discuss a heart that’s drawn on their wall calendar for today’s date (August 23rd, 1950), but neither can figure out the significance. They both agree it must be a special occasion, and Vision heads off to work.

Wanda is introduced to their nosy neighbor Agnes, played by the indelible Kathryn Hahn. Agnes makes witty conversation with Wanda, inquires about personal details and gives Wanda some tips on how to be a proper housewife. Wanda mentions that today is their anniversary, and Agnes agrees to help her plan the special evening.

Meanwhile at work, Vision excels at his job but doesn’t understand its purpose. We meet his boss, Mr. Hart, who reminds Vision of their dinner scheduled for this evening. Realizing the meaning of the heart on the calendar and the pressure to impress his boss, he calls Wanda to discuss their plans. Relieved and under the belief they’re on the same page, their call ends and the show goes to a commercial break….

We get a quick commercial for the Toast Mate 2000 toaster, by Stark Industries. “Forget the past, this is your future.”

Back from commercial…Vision returns home in the evening with his boss Mr. Hart and his wife. Wanda realizes their misunderstanding, and now needs to now prepare a meal for their guests. After a series of humorous interactions, and some secret assistance from Agnes to get ingredients for dinner, the Harts begin to grow suspicious about what’s going on. Wanda finally manages to whip up breakfast for dinner, and they all sit down to enjoy the meal, toasting with a glass of wine.

WandaVision
Kathryn Hahn as Agnes in Marvel Studios’ WANDAVISION, exclusively on Disney+.

Mrs. Hart begins to ask a number of personal questions. Wanda and Vision both attempt to reply, but realize they don’t have answers. Mr. Hart grows impatient and raises his voice, “What IS your story? Why did you come here?! Dammit, WHY?!” and slams his hand on the table. Mr. Hart begins to choke on his food, and his wife attempts to play it off as though he’s joking.

But the moment grows more tense, Mr. Hart is gasping for air. Wanda looks on in confusion, Vision appearing more uncomfortable as it continues. Finally Mr. Hart falls out of his chair onto the floor. Mrs. Hart turns her attention to Wanda, and through uneasy laughter, tells Wanda “Stop it.” Wanda commands Vision to help him, and through use of his powers, reaches into Mr. Hart’s body to remove the food lodged in his throat.

WandaVision

After this, Mr. & Mrs. Hart act as if nothing happened. They mention what a great time they had, and promptly leave. Wanda and Vision, exhausted from the day’s events, sit down on the couch to relax. They remark about what an unusual couple they are and briefly discuss the personal questions they were unable to answer. Wanda creates wedding rings for them, they both say “I do,” kiss and smile towards the camera.

As the “credits” roll, the camera pans back, breaking the 4th wall and revealing that someone is watching the WandaVision episode in the real world. Surrounded by computers and monitoring equipment, jotting down notes in a S.W.O.R.D. journal, this unknown person picks up a remote and turns off the show.

Episode 2 – “Don’t Touch That Dial”

We’re now in the 1960s, in a two-story home. The episode opens with Wanda and Vision sleeping in separate beds, a common trope of TV sitcoms from that era. They keep hearing a banging noise outside and after magically moving their beds together in a moment of fear, they discover it’s just a tree branch hitting the window. Relieved and happy their beds are now adjoined, they get under the covers and turn off the lights. A new opening credits rolls, this time in an animated format reminiscent of Bewitched.

WandaVision

In this episode, Wanda and Vision make their first attempts at participating in the neighborhood. They’re rehearsing a magic act for the talent show fundraiser. Wanda stresses that Westview is their home now, and she wants them to fit in. Vision heads out to attend a neighborhood watch meeting, and Wanda prepares to attend a planning committee meeting.

As she’s heading out the door, Wanda hears another thud outside. She finds a toy helicopter in her front yard, with a S.W.O.R.D. emblem on it, and it’s in color (red). Confused and concerned, the moment is interrupted by Agnes, who is accompanying her to the planning committee meeting. She stresses the importance of making a good impression on Dottie, the head of the committee, who has connections all over town. Most importantly: school admissions, as Agnes hints at a future with children.

At the neighborhood watch meeting, Vision meets a few other men from the neighborhood, including Herb. They offer him a danish, and after mistakenly telling the group that he doesn’t eat food (because he’s a robot), he accepts a piece of gum to appear human. Moments later, he swallows it and we see an animation of it getting stuck in his gears.

At the committee meeting, Wanda attempts to copy other people’s behaviors and blend in. Dottie runs a strict meeting and gets annoyed at multiple interruptions. All the members stress that today’s fundraiser is “for the children.” Wanda meets another woman, introduced as Geraldine, who states that she “actually doesn’t know what [she’s] doing” at the meeting.

After the meeting is over, Wanda stays to help clean up in attempt to make nice with Dottie. She asks if they can start things over, but Dottie mentions she’s heard things about her and Vision. After a pause, Wanda assures her that despite what she’s heard, she “doesn’t mean anyone any harm.”

WandaVision

A radio playing on the table is interrupted by a voice calling Wanda’s name, and Dottie’s entire demeanor changes to fearful and confused. She doesn’t know who Wanda is. The radio shorts out, Dottie shatters a glass in her hand. And red blood appears in her hand. Dottie snaps out of the moment, and pretends as if nothing happened. And the show goes to a commercial break….

We get a quick commercial for Strücker Swiss-made watches, complete with a Hydra 1000M rating.

Back from commercial…Wanda is waiting backstage at the talent show for Vision to arrive. When he finally does, he appears to be drunk/malfunctioning. Wanda takes the stage, and Vision misses he cue. Geraldine, working as the stage manager, encourages him to get on stage. They proceed to put on a magic show, but not as a scripted. Vision hilariously uses his powers to perform tricks, while Wanda has to cover up for them using her own magic.

Wanda appears stressed, but the audience is loving the act. For the final trick, which involved making Wanda disappear inside a cupboard, Wanda instead transports Geraldine into the cupboard to her complete surprise. The audience gives them a roaring applause.

Backstage, Wanda figures out why Vision has been acting so strange and helps him remove the gum that is stuck in his gears. Fearing she upset Dottie with their performance, they try to sneak off. But instead she awards them as the best act of the show. While bowing for applause, Geraldine states her confusion as to how she became part of the trick.

Back home, Wanda and Vision celebrate their successful day fitting-in. And it was all “for the children.” As Wanda gets up, she turns and is suddenly several months pregnant. “Vision, is this really happening?” she asks. “Yes, my love” he replies. As they lean in for a kiss, they hear a large bang outside. When they go to investigate, they see a person in a beekeeper costume crawling out of a manhole. The S.W.O.R.D. emblem is visible on his back. Looking on in fright, the figure turns towards them and Wanda says to it, “NO.”

The episode rewinds back to Wanda’s question, and this time they are able to kiss without interruption. Suddenly Vision’s face appears in full color, and as Wanda looks around the room, the rest of it transforms from black and white to color. Wanda and Vision kiss again, and as the episode goes to credits, we hear the mysterious radio voice asking, “Wanda? Who’s doing this to you?”

WandaVision

Episode 3 – “Now in Color”

We’re now in the 1970s. The episode opens with a new opening credits composed of colorful montages, reminiscent of Mary Tyler Moore and The Brady Bunch. We see Wanda and Vision interacting with the neighbors we’ve already met, strolling around town, dancing at home and preparing for their new baby. The interior design of their house has been completely redone to match the era.

WandaVision

In the first scene, a doctor is examining Wanda at home and concludes, she is indeed pregnant. Vision expresses concern over how quickly she’s grown, implying that only 12 hours has passed since the end of episode 2. To avoid further questioning, Wanda suggests that Vision see Dr. Nielsen out to his car. Out front, Vision asks the doctor to keep this news between them, and he agrees. He also mentions he’ll be leaving on vacation later this same day, and bids him farewell. Before returning inside, next door neighbor Herb is trimming the hedges and continues trimming straight through a brick wall. When Vision points this out, Herb thanks him yet continues, acting completely unaware of what he’s doing.

Upon returning inside, Vision is shocked to see that Wanda has grown even more. They proceed to start decorating the nursery (using magic of course) while Vision reads a baby book. Wanda feels her first kick, which based on the book means she’s already 6 months pregnant. Some decisions need to be expedited, like picking a name. Wanda wants Tommy, a “nice, classic all-American name.” Vision wants Billy, after William Shakespeare. Vision estimates that with her accelerated development, the baby will be born in 3 days.

Moving to the kitchen, Wanda starts feeling a tightening pain, which Vision diagnoses as Braxton Hicks contractions. He senses this is a perfect time to practice their breathing methods. The contractions intensify, and all of the appliances begin to malfunction. The lights in the house get really bright, and then all the power goes out in the neighborhood.

Wanda worries that their neighbors will know she’s the cause, due to all the close calls they’ve been having. Vision thinks for a moment, and sits down next to her on the couch. He recalls some of the weird occurrences, and says with concern, “I think something’s wrong here Wanda.” Wanda looks at him alarmingly, but then…

WandaVision

There’s an unexpected cut in the episode, and the scene goes back 30 seconds. Vision’s dialogue is different, and instead of expressing concern, he reassures Wanda. Even though they don’t know what to expect, he’s certain their baby will be perfect. And in this tender moment, Wanda has her first real contraction. The shock sends Vision floating into the air, and using their breathing techniques, she gets him to come back down. Suddenly, it begins raining inside their house. Wanda’s water has just broken. And the show goes to a commercial break….

We get a quick commercial for Hydra Soak soap. “When you want to get away, but you don’t want to go anywhere. Hydra Soak – Find the Goddess Within!”

Back from commercial…the rain finally stops inside, and Wanda uses her magic to dry everything off. Vision realizes it’s time to get Dr. Nielsen, and with the phones not working due to the power surge, he races out the door to fetch him in person. After Vision departs, Wanda hears a strange noise coming from the nursery. Before she can investigate, the doorbell rings. Since she’s trying to keep the pregnancy a secret, she fetches a coat from the closet before answering.

It’s Geraldine, and she’s coming to borrow a bucket since all the pipes in her ceiling have mysteriously burst. Wanda goes to fetch one from the kitchen, but labor pains cause her magic to be uncontrollable, and her jacket spontaneously changes styles multiple times. Wanda instead grabs a bowl of fruit to cover her stomach, another classic TV trope.

Before Geraldine leaves, she sits down to tell Wanda a brief work story. Behind her, the source of the noise she was unable to identify earlier becomes apparent: there’s a stork in the house, signifying that the baby is coming. Wanda attempts to make it vanish multiple times as Geraldine continues telling her story, but fails to do so. Geraldine then wanders into the nursery, and unable to contain the secret (or labor pains) any longer, Wanda drops the disguise. Geraldine is surprised to see that Wanda is pregnant and now in labor.

As she helps Wanda back into the living room to lay down, more appliances begin malfunctioning. Paintings are spinning on the wall, a chandelier crashes on the dining room table, the fireplace roars with flames. Geraldine states that there must be a logical explanation for everything going on. Wanda begins to doubt she can deliver, but Geraldine encourages her. She pushes one more time, and then suddenly all the chaos stops and we hear a baby crying. Geraldine holds up their newborn son.

Moments later, Vision rushes in the door with Dr. Nielsen on his back, who’s clearly confused at how they arrived so quickly by foot (using powers, of course). Geraldine suggests that the doctor join her in the kitchen so the new parents can enjoy their baby. Vision takes the baby from his wife, and says hello to Tommy (Wanda’s name choice). As he leans in to kiss Wanda, she lets out a loud yell right in his face. Bewildered by her reaction, he realizes she’s still in labor: it’s twins. Wanda pushes and delivers their second child, Billy.

After all is calm and settled, Vision assists Dr. Nielsen outside again. Wishing him good luck on making his vacation, the doctor advises that they won’t be going after all. “Small towns, ya know. So hard…to escape” he says curiously, and walks away. Intrigued by the statement, Vision notices Agnes and Herb talking over by the brick wall he cut into earlier. He goes over to make conversation, and notices they’re both acting secretively.

Inside the house, Wanda and Geraldine are remarking on the twins. Wanda mentions that she is also a twin, and she had a brother named Pietro. She begins to sing a Sokovian lullaby to the babies. Wanda is now softly crying and she’s caught up in the emotion of this memory. Geraldine appears to come out of a trance, and says to Wanda, “He was killed by Ultron, wasn’t he?” Taken aback by the question, Wanda asks her to repeat it. Geraldine suddenly acts confused and provides a different answer. Wanda begins to get agitated, and suggests that Geraldine leave. She notices a S.W.O.R.D. medallion hanging on her necklace. “What is that? Who are you?!” Geraldine struggles to answer as Wanda approaches her.

Back outside, Vision begins to walk back to the house to check on Wanda. Agnes asks if Geraldine is inside. Unsure why she’s inquiring, Agnes and Herb begin to discuss that Geraldine is new to town, with no family and no home. Herb starts to say “She came here because we’re all…” and Vision tries to get the rest of the sentence. Agnes interrupts Herb from answering, changes the subject and walks away. Herb also pretends to forget what they’re discussing and says goodbye. Perplexed, Vision rushes back to the house.

Coming in the front door, Vision finds Wanda standing over the crib. When he asks where Geraldine is, Wanda looks up and replies in a robotically sinister way that “she had to rush home.” Wanda looks back down at the crib, and smiles. The 4 x 3 aspect ratio of the episode’s era transforms to present day 16 x 9 widescreen, and the shot moves to a nighttime view of the “Welcome to Westview” sign.

There’s a crackle of electricity, and we see Geraldine fly out of a portal made from TV static and roll across the ground. A number of trucks and helicopters are circling the area. The camera pans back to reveal a military installation outside a static force field surrounding the real town of Westview.

WandaVision
Teyonah Parris as Monica Rambeau in Marvel Studios’ WANDAVISION, exclusively on Disney+.

Exciting New Changes Coming to the Jungle Cruise!

Jungle Cruise

Disney has announced exciting new changes coming to the Disneyland and Magic Kingdom versions of the Jungle Cruise attraction! These changes are meant to enhance the story while maintaining the classic experience guests have grown to love. They also address some often complained about depictions of “jungle natives,” allowing the experience to be more inclusive.

Jungle Cruise

The new Jungle Cruise will have a connected storyline throughout, with a backstory that includes a brand-new cast of characters, including an entomologist, a bird watcher, and a wildlife painter. And for the first time ever, the Skipper will also be a part of the story with a show figure within the attraction.

Jungle Cruise

We’ll follow along their journey gone awry, as the explorers leave their boat and go off into the jungle. From there, we can see they’ve chased up a tree by a rhino. Meanwhile, their boat sinks and splits in two, and is overtaken by chimps! All of this keeping with the classic humor and jokes introduced many years ago by Imagineer Marc Davis. 

More changes will be undoubtedly be included, so this is just a sneak peek of what’s to come. Bur Disney is hoping to implement these changes on both coasts in 2021. WDI has also clarified that many of the classic jokes will remain, but this new storyline gives the Skippers even more material to play off of. We can’t wait to see it come to fruition!

Jungle Cruise Info:

Jungle Cruise

Jungle Cruise Jungle Cruise Jungle Cruise

Disney Celebrates Minnie Mouse with new Digital Summit

Minnie Mouse

In celebration of National Polka Dot Day today, the annual fan holiday honoring Minnie Mouse, Disney and Create & Cultivate, the modern media company for working womxn, by working womxn, led by Founder + CEO Jaclyn Johnson, have teamed up to announce Positively Minnie: The Polka Dot Summit 2.0 – The Digital Edition. Led by talent who encompass her bold, fashionable, fun and classic attitude and style, the global, virtual summit will go live Saturday, February 13, at 9am PST.

For the second year in a row, and with a full digital refresh, The Polka Dot Summit 2.0 will engage audiences around the world and showcase what it means to be ‘Positively Minnie’ through fun, powerful and uplifting programming that will leave participants feeling inspired. Free to the public, fans will be able to partake in Minnie-inspired workshops and styling sessions, listen to a keynote conversation with participating talent, shop the latest Minnie merch and much more. Participating talent to be announced at a later date.

Minnie Mouse

“A true global icon who has influenced both the fashion and lifestyle spaces since her debut in 1928,” said Stephanie Young, President of Disney Consumer Products, Games and Publishing. “Her timelessness has allowed her to transcend generations and inspire joy and self-confidence in fans of all ages. She is the perfect inspiration for Create & Cultivate as they aim to inspire the next generation of creators, innovators, and trendsetters.”

Admission to The Polka Dot Summit 2.0 is free. In order to attend, registration is required via the Create & Cultivate website, https://www.createcultivate.com/disney-polka-dot-summit, beginning today, January 22, and closing on February 12. Registrations are non-transferable and limited to one per attendee. The Polka Dot Summit 2.0 is limited to individuals ages 18 or older. Be sure to follow @minniestyle, #CCPolkaDotSummit, #PositivelyMinnie, and #MinnieStyle on Instagram.

“We are so excited to work with Disney again and reinvent The Polka Dot Summit into a fully digital experience,” said Create & Cultivate CEO and Founder Jaclyn Johnson. “Minnie Mouse is the ultimate lifestyle muse. For generations she has inspired fans to be bold, embrace their individuality and to have fun. Through this year’s The Polka Dot Summit 2.0, we hope to bring Minnie’s loveable characteristics to life and inspire fans from around the world to live their life to the fullest.”

New Products and Promotions

To continue the National Polka Dot Day celebrations, exciting collaborations and collections with Kate Spade New York, Eggie, Loungefly, The Happy Planner, Corkcicle, Tommy Bahama, BaubleBar, and Torrid are available at retailers nationwide. Additional collections from Levi’s, Havaianas, Adidas, Pandora Jewelry, H&M and much more are available globally for fans of all ages to shop and enjoy.

Additionally, Disney Publishing titles including, Art of Coloring: Mickey & Minnie, are available to shop at retailers nationwide along with free digital coloring page downloads via the Create & Cultivate website.

Minnie Mouse

Following the global launch of Disney nuiMOs plush earlier this month, celebrity stylist, Maeve Reilly, also styled a polka-dot inspired look for the new Minnie Mouse Disney nuiMOs plush in honor of National Polka Dot Day. Fans can shop from the new fashion-forward collection, including accessories used from Maeve’s look on shopDisney.com.

“The Muppet Show” Streaming Feb 19 on Disney+

The long wait for Muppet fans is almost over! “The Muppet Show,” Jim Henson’s iconic variety series that started it all, will begin streaming Friday, February 19 exclusively on Disney+. In addition to the first three seasons, fans will be able to enjoy seasons 4 and 5, which have never previously been released on home entertainment.

The Muppet Show

Stars Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Gonzo, the Swedish Chef, and more in a groundbreaking twist on the classic variety show, blending original songs, sketch comedy, and guest stars into a prime-time hit for all ages. 

“It’s going to be great to welcome back longtime fans, and to give a new generation of fans a chance to see how we got our start, how Miss Piggy became a star and so much more,” said Kermit the Frog. “Today, I’m proud to say: ‘It’s time to play the music, light the lights and meet the Muppets on Disney Plus tonight!’  And as for Statler and Waldorf, the two old guys in the balcony,  I can only add: ‘Sorry, guys, but….here we go again.”

Originally premiering in 1976, some of Hollywood’s brightest stars stopped by “The Muppet Show” for unforgettable comedy and chaos including Steve Martin, Elton John, Liza Minnelli, Alice Cooper, Julie Andrews, Bernadette Peters, Diana Ross, Gladys Knight, Gene Kelly, and Mark Hamill. 

The Muppet Show

With all five seasons of “The Muppet Show,” Muppet favorites like “Muppet Treasure Island” celebrating its 25th anniversary next month, and new hits like “Muppets Now,” Disney+ is now the most sensational, inspirational, celebrational, Muppetational streaming service on Earth. To stream The Muppets Collection, visit www.disneyplus.com/franchise/the-muppets.

nuiMOs! Latest Plush Trend Coming to Disney Parks & shopDisney

nuiMOs

Disney nuiMOs will be available for the first time in North America and Europe beginning Jan. 19 at shopDisney.com, Disney stores, and at Walt Disney World Resort. Of course, they will continue to delight guests at Disney stores in Japan, Shanghai Disney Resort, and Hong Kong Disneyland Resort as well! Stay tuned because these new friends will also be coming to Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort and Disneyland Paris at a later date.

What are nuiMOs?

The name “nuiMOs” is a blend of the Japanese words nuigurumi, meaning plush, and moderu, meaning model. Disney nuiMOs plush characters are meant to be an extension of one’s self with the flexibility to change one’s looks to suit their unique personality and taste. Disney nuiMOs are flexible and can do a wide variety of poses. Their pocket-sized compactness and portability make them the perfect little companions and even models!

nuiMOs

Since originally launching in Disney stores in Japan and China, Shanghai Disney Resort and Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, Disney nuiMOs plush characters quickly gained popularity on social media as fans styled and took their plush on adventures to Disney Parks, the beach, the mall, and everywhere in between!

This year, it’s time for the rest of the world to meet Disney nuiMOs featuring miniature character plush, outfits, and accessories with a fashionable twist! These little friends don’t skimp on style. Gets yours here. 

Get ready for the first release which includes Disney nuiMOs plush of Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, Stitch, and Angel along with an assortment of fashionable outfits and accessories for you to mix and match to create your very own unique styles!

nuiMOs

On the first Monday of each month, beginning Feb. 1, new accessories, outfits, and plush will be released to keep up with the latest trends including co-brands with Loungefly, Spirit Jersey, Ashley Eckstein, Disney Artist Wes Jenkins, and more.

nuiMOs

To help kick off the launch in style, celebrity stylist Maeve Reilly created four signature Disney nuiMOs looks for Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse by mixing and matching clothing and accessories from the new lines, inspiring fans to create their own! Her love for accessorizing, passion for emerging brands, and acute attention to detail make her highly sought after by icons everywhere. Maeve’s Disney nuiMOs style creations are: Streetwear: Tokyo vs. LA street style, Loungewear, Day to Night and a Day at Disney Parks. Check them out:

Keep checking back for all things Disney nuiMOs and follow their adventures on Instagram @DisneynuiMOsFacebook, and by using #DisneynuiMOs! You can buy them starting January 19 by clicking here.

Review: Marvel’s “WandaVision” Series Premiere – Let’s Get Weird

WandaVision

563 days…that’s how much time has passed since Marvel Studios’ last film, Spider-Man: Far From Home, was released in theaters. A record-setting 23 films were released between 2008-2019 as part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, culminating with the most successful movie of all time, Avengers: Endgame. And Spider-Man’s last adventure bookended Phase Three of “The Infinity Saga,” leaving fans to wonder what comes next.

Less than 3 weeks after Spider-Man’s release, Marvel announced its massive plans for Phase Four, slated to begin in May 2020 with Black Widow after a short hiatus.

But 2020 was…well, not the year any of us was expecting. A global shutdown affected multiple productions, release dates were delayed and shifted, and then delayed again. And now after 18 months have passed without a single Marvel release, we find ourselves (finally) at the beginning of a whole new era.

Enter WandaVision

WandaVision

The first MCU canon television show and one of many original titles announced for Disney+. Originally intended as the fifth release of Phase Four, WandaVision now has the opportunity to set the tone for the next several years of films and TV shows. Marvel Studios’ President Kevin Feige promised that this show would mark a new chapter of storytelling for the MCU, and its unique setting and approach does just that.

Reprising their roles as the title characters are Elizabeth Olsen and Paul Bettany, who both first appeared in 2015’s Avengers: Age of Ultron (not counting a brief post-credits scene). Presented as a sitcom from years’ past, WandaVision reintroduces our main characters as they are beginning a new life in the small, fictional town of Westview. We see them coming straight from their wedding to move into a new home. Everything is bright and cheery on the surface as the couple adopts a suburban lifestyle, but clearly, there is an underlying confusion they cannot explain.

In the MCU, Vision was killed in 2018 by Thanos, and Wanda was last seen in the final minutes of Endgame, which is set in 2023. Everything we are witnessing in WandaVision is some kind of an alternate reality. But from whose viewpoint? As the events of the first two episodes unfold, the real world begins to subtly creep in from multiple points and the supporting characters lend credence to the uncertainty. What is really going on? Who are these co-workers, neighbors, and friends? How did they get here? Is all of this really happening? 

WandaVision

As we’ve seen from the trailers, the show is going to progress through multiple decades of sitcom styles. Episode 1 begins in the 1950s, and Episode 2 moves into the 1960s. This provides a unique opportunity to tell the narrative in an ever-changing way, as well as add to the overarching mystery. While feeling nostalgic and familiar, it is equally fresh and unique at the same time.

Never before has a TV show attempted to pay homage to sitcoms as a plot device. In this case, it is being used to create a sense of normalcy for Wanda and Vision. But as an outside viewer, we know this illusion and idealized life is anything but normal. Olsen and Bettany play into the TV marriage and sitcom antics with perfection, nailing the respective eras. And Kathryn Hahn leads the supporting cast as a nosy neighbor intent on helping Wanda fit in with the social circle.

As more of the story continues to unravel in future episodes, the line between what is real and what is imaginary should start to become more clear. The evolution of the characters and their environments through the decades should provide nonstop entertainment. Just make sure to keep your eyes peeled for a sprinkling of Marvel Easter eggs throughout, and your ears tuned to the voices in the static. 

WandaVision

While an 18-month delay between releases was certainly not Marvel’s intention, in retrospect it has actually been a welcomed break. “The Infinity Saga” concluded on a very high note, and the additional breathing room between phases allows the viewer a fresh perspective upon returning to this world. And if these first two episodes are any indication of what’s to come, it promises to be a unique and weird ride.

Score: 9/10

Marvel’s “WandaVision” new Behind-the-Scenes Featurette

The new featurette offers a look behind the scenes and a glimpse at what’s to come in Marvel Studios’ “WandaVision,” a blend of classic television and the Marvel Cinematic Universe in which Wanda Maximoff (Elizabeth Olsen) and Vision (Paul Bettany)—two super-powered beings living idealized suburban lives—begin to suspect that everything is not as it seems.

“WandaVision,” the first Marvel Studios series created exclusively for Disney+, stars Elizabeth Olsen as Wanda Maximoff, Paul Bettany as Vision, Kathryn Hahn as Agnes, and Teyonah Parris as Monica Rambeau, who was introduced to audiences in “Captain Marvel.” Kat Dennings will reprise her role as Darcy from “Thor” and “Thor: The Dark World,” and Randall Park will reprise his role as Jimmy Woo from “Ant-Man and The Wasp.”  

Marvel Studios’ “WandaVision” is a blend of classic television and the Marvel Cinematic Universe in which Wanda Maximoff and Vision—two super-powered beings living idealized suburban lives—begin to suspect that everything is not as it seems. The series is directed by Matt Shakman with Jac Schaeffer as head writer. Composer is Christophe Beck, and theme (for certain episodes) is by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez. Featuring nine episodes, the first two episodes of “WandaVision” are now streaming exclusively on Disney+.

WandaVision

What we Learned from Marvel’s “WandaVision” Press Conference

WandaVision

Marvel Studios presents “WandaVision,” a blend of classic television and the Marvel Cinematic Universe in which Wanda Maximoff and Vision—two super-powered beings living idealized suburban lives—begin to suspect that everything is not as it seems. “‘WandaVision’ will be the very first Marvel Studios series on Disney+,” says Kevin Feige, president, Marvel Studios, and chief creative officer, Marvel. “Wanda and Vision are two of our most powerful and complex heroes, and this series is a perfect expansion point for MCU storytelling.”

The series not only marks the first Marvel Studios’ Disney+ series, but it is also its first journey into the world of sitcoms—with an MCU twist. “It’s a mash-up of classic sitcoms and large-scale Marvel action,” says Matt Shakman, who directs all nine episodes. “I think it’s really lovely that the first streaming show from Marvel Studios—producer of huge blockbuster films—is really a love letter to the history of television.”

According to head writer Jac Schaeffer, “WandaVision” is funny, mysterious, and action-packed. “It picks up shortly after ‘Avengers: Endgame,’” she says. “Marvel fans have never seen Wanda and Vision in this way before. Their storyline has been so romantic and tragic—fans have really latched onto it. But really, it’s been precious little screen time, and it’s all been very fraught. In this show, we get to see them in a domestic light, and it gets to breathe. It’s really beautiful.

“In the first episode we meet Wanda and Vision after they’ve just been married,” continues Shaeffer. “They’re driving into this new town with ‘just married’ on the back of their cute little car. It’s the 1950s, black and white, they’re absolutely adorable. They’re madly in love, and there is not a hint of the Avengers or the larger MCU. We see them going about their day, making breakfast. She’s a witch, he’s synthezoid. She can dry dishes in the air. He can change density and walk through things.”

Says Shakman, “Wanda and Vision are just starting their married life together in this new town, and they’re meeting their neighbors. Vision’s starting to work at his new job while Wanda navigates life at home. They’re concerned about hiding their powers from their new friends and neighbors, and when they’re pushed for more information about where they came from, they’re stumped. That’s when we start to realize that things are not quite what they seem.”

With nine episodes, the series was created much like a motion picture would be—but more extensive, allowing the first-of-its-kind exploration of the relationship between Wanda and Vision. Says co-executive producer Mary Livanos, “Elizabeth Olsen and Paul Bettany have the opportunity to flex different muscles over the course of this series that usually an actor wouldn’t get to do within the scope of a single project.”

About WandaVision

During a recent virtual press conference, we heard from the cast and filmmakers on how they brought this new series to television. The Cast Elizabeth Olsen (Wanda), Paul Bettany (Vision), Teyonah Parris (Monica), Kathryn Hahn (Agnes), was joined by Jac Schaeffer (Writer / Exec Producer), Matt Shakman (Director / Exec Producer), and Kevin Feige (Producer).

WandaVision

The First Episode was shot in front of a live studio audience, here is how Elizabeth Olsen reacted. 

“It was the first thing we shot. It was so nerve-wracking and, there was a lot of adrenaline. There were a lot of quick changes and, and totally, confused my brain mentioned Olsen. “The idea of not playing to an audience but feeding off an audience and having a camera, I was really grateful when we added the fourth wall for our second episode.”

“It was like an amalgamation of, Mary Tyler Moore and Elizabeth Montgomery, and I think I accidentally threw in some Lucy in the 70s just because there was so much physical comedy.”

Matt Shakman explained how classic sitcoms inspired his direction.

“Well, we wanted to be as authentic as possible. That was one of the biggest goals, and so production design, cinematography, costuming, everything was about going on this deep dive and with the actors we all wanted to do the same thing, so we watched just a ton of old television episodes, talked about how comedy changes, you know because it really does.”

“The approach to comedy in the 50s, 60s, 70s is really different. And doing it in front of a live studio audience, which is this weird quasi theater-TV, this thing is real it really adds to it.”

“I Love Lucy and Dick Van Dyke. You can feel the energy of that sort of theatrical performance working with the audience. And then when you get into the 60s shows like Bewitched or I Dream of Jeannie, it is the fourth wall, and all of a sudden it’s much more like doing a movie these days, and that laugh track is all canned and brought in. It changes the energy, the approach, the style, everything. We also worked with a fabulous dialect coach, to talk-you know, to work on how the people would sound in that era, how they would move. We just did everything we could to make it as authentic as possible.”

WandaVision

Paul Bettany talks about his character Vision.

“I was worried about that initially. I was like, “Wow, this is-feels so different,” as I read the script and how do I keep him the same? And then I realized he’s always been becoming something else, you know. He’s Jarvis, he’s part Ultron, he’s part Tony Stark, and he’s omnipotent but he’s also this sort of naive ingenue.”

“Then I realized, well, I’ll just throw a little bit of Dick Van Dyke in there and a little bit of Hugh Laurie and maybe a little smidges, you know. So, as long as he remains, what I think Vision is is just decent and honorable and-and exists for Wanda, and then you’re safe.”

Teyonah Parris explains who Monica is and more about her character.

“We met Monica in Captain Marvel as a little girl and basically in WandaVision we pick up with who she is now as a grown woman, and through the course of the show, we find out what she’s been up to, what’s happened for her, between that gap in the years and who she’s grown and involved or-or not. And we just follow her along.”

“We will get to see more of Monica as she joins Carol Danvers in Captain Marvel and Miss Marvel in Captain Marvel 2.”

Writer Jac Schaeffer explains Wanda’s and Vision’s journey and what we can expect.

“Wanda and Vision are really as a couple a fan favorite because their love story has been so very tragic but also really kind of warm and intimate, and we’ve seen them in this really beautiful kind of stolen moments in the MCU.  It’s actually been a small amount of screen time but very powerful and very soulful, and-but what we have with WandaVision which is really I think a treat for all is we’re sort of opening up the stage and space for them and they’re in this as a domestic sphere.”

“We get to see them doing dishes and in the kitchen and being cute and-and, just all the sort of like homebody stuff that you would never get to see a-a superhero participate in.  So we really go from these enormous sorts of dramatic moments, and kind of frat moments in the MCU and then in WandaVision, it’s a lot of cute until it’s not.”

WandaVision

Kevin Feige lets us know about this first sitcom in the MCU and what we can expect for the future. 

“This was our test run. Marvel of course has had a lot of, good successful TV in the past.”

“This was Marvel Studios’ first foray and directly with the cast and amazing characters that we’d seen in movies, coming onto television.  And the idea of-always was, yes, to do something that could not be done, as a feature. That plays with the format and plays with the-with the medium.  And there were a lot of meetings before people actually sort of understood what we were trying to go for, and, and we’re only sitting here because Jac and Matt did.  And, we’re able to turn a whacky idea into a spectacular show.”

“We’ve got lots of other things we’ve announced that that is coming out, but, as it all comes together, I’m actually very happy and it worked out perfectly that this is the debut on Disney Plus for the MCU.”

WandaVision will stream exclusively on Disney+ beginning Friday, January 15, 2021.

Disney+ “Flora and Ulysses” Release New Trailer

Flora and Ulysses

Disney+ has released the trailer and new images for the comedy-adventure “Flora and Ulysses,” premiering exclusively on Disney+ Friday, February 19, 2021.

About Flora and Ulysses

The film is based on the Newbery Award-winning book about 10-year-old Flora, an avid comic book fan and a self-avowed cynic, whose parents have recently separated. After rescuing a squirrel she names Ulysses, Flora is amazed to discover he possesses unique superhero powers, which take them on an adventure of humorous complications that ultimately change Flora’s life–and her outlook–forever.

“Flora & Ulysses” stars Matilda Lawler, Alyson Hannigan, Ben Schwartz, Anna Deavere Smith, Danny Pudi, Benjamin Evans Ainsworth, Janeane Garofolo and Kate McCucci. It was directed by Lena Khan and produced by Gil Netter.

Based on the novel “Flora & Ulysses: The Illuminated Adventures” by Kate DiCamillo, the film’s screenplay is by Brad Copeland. Katterli Frauenfelder and James Powers served as executive producers.

Flora and Ulysses

What’s Next on Disney+ and Hulu in January 2021

Disney+

Disney+ is the dedicated streaming home for movies and shows from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic, and more. Hulu is the only service that gives viewers instant access to current shows from every major U.S. broadcast network; libraries of hit TV series and films; and acclaimed Hulu Originals like Emmy and Golden Globe Award-winning series “The Handmaid’s Tale” to breakout hits like “Little Fires Everywhere.”

ESPN+ lets you stream thousands of live events & archives, including UFC Fight Nights & PPV events, soccer matches from Serie A, FA Cup, MLS, & more, MLB, PGA Tour, Grand Slam Tennis, college sports, and much more. The stories you love and the entertainment that you want are all on your own terms for only $12.99 per month. There’s something for everyone! To subscribe, click here.

Friday, January 1

New Library Titles:
700 Sharks
Dr. Seuss’ Horton Hears a Who!
Great Shark Chow Down
Mega Hammerhead
Mr. Popper’s Penguins
Wolverine, The (2013)

Earth to Ned

After premiering in September, “Earth to Ned” is back to kick off the new year with 10 all-new episodes!

Disney+

From the Jim Henson Company comes a late-night talk show hosted by alien commander Ned and his lieutenant Cornelius, who calls off the invasion of Earth after they fall in love with human culture. Broadcasting from the bridge of their spaceship, hidden deep underground, Ned and Cornelius interview Earth’s greatest resource, celebrities. With the help of the ship’s artificial intelligence, BETI, and the destructive CLODs, Ned must keep his show a secret from his home planet or suffer the wrath of his father, the Admiral of the Galactic Fleet.

Episode 11: “Dream a little Dream of Ned”
After Ned dreams for the first time, Ginnifer Goodwin and Alan Tudyk help him separate dreams from reality. BETI’s brain scanner exposes the crew’s secret dreams. Cornelius sees a therapist.
Episode 12: “The Neddies”
Obsessed with winning an award, Ned hosts his own awards show, with D’Arcy Carden and Oliver Hudson. Cornelius is beamed to the surface to take an acting class. The CLODs make a Western.

Episode 13: “Trancendental Neditation”
When Ned gets stressed out, Yvette Nicole Brown and Jack McBrayer try to teach him how to relax. Cornelius is beamed to a “rage room.” Ned is troubled by a message from his home planet.

Episode 14: “Party Like It’s Nineteen Ninety Ned”
Actor/director Kevin Smith and actress Aisha Tyler help Ned indulge his 90’s obsession. Cornelius is sent to the future and discovers comedian Ben Schwartz is starring in a reboot of Ned’s talk show. The CLODs stage a 90’s-themed fashion show.

Episode 15: “Alien vs. Nedator”
When Ned hears aliens may have built the pyramids, he investigates human conspiracy theories with Sherri Shepherd and Penn & Teller. Cornelius goes undercover as a human to find out what Earthlings really think about aliens.

Episode 16: “Ned Over Heels”
Sitcom stars Alyson Hannigan & Ben Feldman help Ned cope with love. Cornelius tries speed dating. The CLODs create a fake dating profile.

Episode 17: “Ned vs. Food”
After Ned catches Cornelius snacking after bedtime, Chef Roy Choi and Brenda Song help him become a foodie. The CLODs open their own restaurant, with disgusting results.

Episode 18: “CyberNedics”
When BETI crashes, Ned’s interviews with Mayim Bialik and Margaret Cho are disrupted by glitches and blue ooze. Cornelius is trapped at the Intergalactic Whiz Desk.

Episode 19: “Growing Up Ned”
When one of Ned’s CLODs runs away, Molly Ringwald and Chris Colfer try to explain “growing up.” Cornelius goes in search of the missing CLOD, and unexpectedly meets Grace VanderWaal.

Episode 20: “Like Father Like Ned”
With Ned’s dad on his way to Earth, Jason Ritter and Tig Notaro try to help prove humanity should be saved, and teach Ned about the true meaning of family. Cornelius makes a decision that may change his life. The secret origin of the CLODs is revealed.

Extras – Beyond the Clouds: A Firm handshake

Justin discusses integrating music from Zach and Sammy’s album, “A Firm Handshake,” into the film. The choice is made to record the singing live on set to capture the raw emotion of the film, but the decision comes with challenges for production. Justin invites Sammy to contribute a song of her own for the final track in the film, and she looks for inspiration in her relationship with Zach.

Friday, January 8

New Library Titles:
Disney Fam Jam
Ferdinand
Star Wars Forces of Destiny: Volume 1
Star Wars Forces of Destiny: Volume 2
Star Wars Forces of Destiny: Volume 3
Star Wars Forces of Destiny: Volume 4
Toy Story That Time Forgot

Extras – Beyond the Clouds: The Anatomy of Emotion

Justin discusses the process of navigating the emotion of the film and the challenge of ensuring the tone remains true to Zach’s story. Fin taps into a difficult personal struggle to reach Zach’s low point, and Justin shares how the classic film, That Thing You Do, mixed with the casting of Tom Everett Scott, inspired one of the most joyful moments in Clouds.

Marvel Studios: Legends
Premiere

“Marvel Studios: Legends” serves as an exciting refresher for the various heroes and villains making their way to the highly anticipated streaming shows premiering on Disney+, setting the stage for the upcoming adventures. The first two episodes will feature Wanda Maximoff and Vision.

Friday, January 15

New Library Titles:
Disney Elena of Avalor (s3)
Doctor Doolittle 3
Isle of Dogs
Mary Poppins Returns

WandaVision
Premiere

“WandaVision” is a blend of classic television and the Marvel Cinematic Universe in which Wanda Maximoff (Elizabeth Olsen) and Vision (Paul Bettany)—two super-powered beings living idealized suburban lives—begin to suspect that everything is not as it seems. The new series is directed by Matt Shakman; Jac Schaeffer is head writer.

Extras – Beyond the Clouds: The Concert of a Lifetime
As Justin and the crew prepare for Zach’s final performance, they have difficulty finding a venue. A miracle, however, comes from the most unlikely place – Justin’s daughter, Maiya. Jason Mraz, reflects on his connection with Zach’s music and its impact on him and his work. When filming the final scene, Justin invites Zach’s family and friends to be in the audience, and they all sing along in his honor.

Friday, January 22

Pixar Popcorn
Premiere
Grab a quick snack of Pixar! This collection of mini shorts stars your favorite characters in all-new, bite-size stories. Created directly by Pixar animators as a quick pop of Pixar fun.

WandaVision – New Episode
“WandaVision” is a blend of classic television and the Marvel Cinematic Universe in which Wanda Maximoff (Elizabeth Olsen) and Vision (Paul Bettany)—two super-powered beings living idealized suburban lives—begin to suspect that everything is not as it seems. The new series is directed by Matt Shakman; Jac Schaeffer is head writer.

Extras – Beyond the Clouds: The Finishing Touches
Justin brings in composer Brian Tyler to score the film. Brian looks to Zach for inspiration as he creates a theme that he feels Zach himself would’ve written. Brian composes a beautiful suite of music for Zach, feeling as though Zach is with him every stop of the way. Stefan Sonnenfeld, the colorist, details the process of creating a uniquely grounded and raw look for Clouds. When Covid-19 closes theaters, Justin decides to meet the audience where they are – in their living rooms.

Friday, January 29

Disney+

Dinosaurs (s1)
Dinosaurs (s2)
Dinosaurs (s3)
Dinosaurs (s4)
Epic
The Incredible Dr. Pol
Ramona and Beezus
Texas Storm Squad

WandaVision – New Episode
“WandaVision” is a blend of classic television and the Marvel Cinematic Universe in which Wanda Maximoff (Elizabeth Olsen) and Vision (Paul Bettany)—two super-powered beings living idealized suburban lives—begin to suspect that everything is not as it seems. The new series is directed by Matt Shakman; Jac Schaeffer is head writer.

Extras – Beyond the Clouds: A Promise Kept
The cast and crew reunite at the annual Clouds Choir fundraiser, singing in unity to honor Zach and raise money for the Zach Sobiech osteosarcoma fund. In tearful confessionals, various cast members, crew, and important people in Zach’s life share how he inspired them to live more fully and thank him for his lasting impact. Lastly, Justin proudly reveals that after the release of Clouds, Zach’s song is again #1 on iTunes.

Disney+

January 2021 Hulu Listings:

January 1

Dick Clark’s Primetime New Year’s Rockin’ Eve With Ryan Seacrest: Special (ABC)

Fire Force: Season 2, Episodes 1-12 (DUBBED) (Funimation)

1900 (1977)

1900 (Extended Cut) (1977)

A Night at the Roxbury (1998)

American Gigolo (1980)

Arachnophobia (1990)

The Arrival (1996)

Austin Powers In Goldmember (2002)

Austin Powers: International Man Of Mystery (1997)

Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me (1999)

Bad Company (2002)

Blade Runner: The Final Cut (2007)

Blood Diamond (2006)

Bloody Sunday (2002)

Blow (2001)

Boogie Nights (1997)

Breakdown (1997)

Broken Arrow (1996)

The Brothers McMullen (1995)

Bully (2001)

Changing Lanes (2002)

Chaplin (1992)

Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs (2009)

Cloverfield (2008)

Coneheads (1993)

Constantine (2005)

The Cooler (2003)

The Core (2003)

Crazy, Stupid, Love. (2011)

Cujo (1983)

Dance Flick (2009)

Date Night (2010)

Dead Poets Society (1989)

Dead Presidents (1995)

The Dead Zone (1983)

Diary of a Wimpy Kid (2009)

Donnie Brasco (1997)

The Duff (2015)

Enemy at the Gates (2001)

Escape from Alcatraz (1979)

Eve’s Bayou (1997)

Face/Off (1997)

The Firm (1993)

The Foot Fist Way (2008)

Footloose (1984)

Frankenstein and the Monster from Hell (1974)

Frozen (2010)

The Gift (2000)

Girl Most Likely (2013)

Good Luck Chuck (2007)

Gunfight at the O.K. Corral (1957)

The Haunting (1999)

Hell or High water (2016)

Hondo (1953)

Hot Shots! (1991)

How Do You Know (2010)

In & Out (1997)

Indecent Proposal (1993)

Internal Affairs (1990)

Kiss the Girls (1997)

The Ladies Man (2000)

Last of the Mohicans: Director’s Cut (1992)

The Legend of Bagger Vance (2000)

The Longest Yard (1974)

Look Who’s Talking (1989)

Look Who’s Talking Now (1993)

Look Who’s Talking Too (1990)

Lost In Space (1998)

Love And Basketball (2000)

Major League (1989)

The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962)

The Mexican (2001)

More Than a Game (2008)

Mousehunt (1997)

My Best Friend’S Girl (2008)

New In Town (2009)

Night at the Museum (2006)

Paycheck (2003)

The Peacemaker (1997)

Places in the Heart (1984)

Poseidon (2006)

Pride (2007)

The Princess Bride (1987)

Push (2009)

The Quick and the Dead (1995)

Regarding Henry (1991)

The Relic (1997)

The Rules Of Attraction (2002)

Salt (2010)

Save Yourselves (2020)

Selena (1997)

Shrek (2001)

The Sons of Katie Elder (1965)

Soul Plane (2004)

Species (1995)

Star Kid (1998)

Star Trek Beyond (2016)

Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (1986)

Star Trek: First Contact (1996)

Starman (1984)

Stephen King’s Graveyard Shift (1990)

Super Dark Times (2017)

The Three Musketeers (2011)

The Truman Show (1998)

Vampire in Brooklyn (1995)

Virtuosity (1995)

Walking Tall (1973)

War (2007)

Where Hope Grows (2015)

Wonder Boys (2000)

Young Adult (2011)

Like a Boss (2020)
Two female friends with very different ideals decide to start a beauty company together. One is more practical, while the other wants to earn her fortune and live a lavish lifestyle.

January 4

Call Me Kat: Season 1 Finale (FOX)

The Rookie: Season 3 Premiere (ABC)

January 5

The Bachelor: Season 25 Premiere (ABC)

The Wall: Season 4 Premiere (NBC)

Boruto: Complete Season 1 (DUBBED) (Viz)

January 6

Gordon Ramsay’s American Road Trip: Series Premiere (FOX)

Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist: Season 2 Premiere (NBC)

Mighty Oak (2020)

January 7

Name That Tune: Series Premiere (FOX)

Vanderpump Rules: Complete Season 8 (Bravo)

Gretel & Hansel (2020)

January 8

The Hustler: Series Premiere (ABC)

The Chase: Series Premiere (ABC)

Celebrity Wheel of Fortune: Series Premiere (ABC)

Mr. Mayor: Series Premiere (NBC)

A Certain Scientific Railgun Part 2: Complete Season 3 (DUBBED) (Funimation)

Celebs Go Dating: Complete Seasons 6 – 8 (All3Media)

Tattoo Fixers Extreme UK: Complete Seasons 5 & 6 (All3Media)

January 10

One-Punch Man: Complete Season 2 (DUBBED) (Viz)

January 11

Lights Out (2016)

The Rhythm Section (2020)

January 12

A Little Late with Lilly Singh: Season 2 Premiere (NBC)

January 13

Prodigal Son: Season 2 Premiere (FOX)

The Resident: Season 4 Premiere (FOX)

Everyone is Doing Great: Complete Season 1 (Endeavor Content)
Seth (Stephen Colletti) and Jeremy (James Lafferty) enjoyed the success of ‘Eternal,’ a hit television vampire drama. Five years after their show has ended, they lean on each other as they awkwardly navigate the perils of life and love in a late coming-of-age.

January 14

Call Your Mother: Series Premiere (ABC)

Alone (2020)

The Secrets We Keep (2020)

January 15

The Ultimate Playlist of Noise: Film Premiere (Hulu Original)

Disney+Written by Mitchell Winkie, the film follows Marcus (Keean Johnson), an audio obsessed high school senior who learns he must undergo brain surgery that will render him deaf. He decides to seize control of his fate by recording The Ultimate Playlist of Noise – a bucket list of all his favorite sounds. Once he sets out, he meets Wendy (Madeline Brewer) a wildly charming, struggling musician who is trying to escape to New York for her chance at a life-changing opportunity. Together they check off his list as they make their way across the country, until painful revelations force Marcus to face reality and his future without sound.

Endlings: Complete Season 2 (Hulu Original)

Disney+The year is 2041; Julia (Kamaia Fairburn), Johnny (Edison Grant), Tabby (Michela Luci), and Finn (Cale Thomas Ferrin) continue to help their extraterrestrial friend Ling save fantastical endlings. With the aid of their foster father Mr. Leopold (Neil Crone) and animal activist Dr. Abiona Maina (Oyin Oladejo), the group is getting closer to retrieving the remaining ‘last of its kind’ creatures and completing their mission. But when Ling accidentally shows Tabby a vision of their quest failing, the team learns that Ling’s powers don’t just allow the alien access to their pasts but also their futures. This glimpse of what’s to come reveals Infinitum CEO Tresa Hewes (Lisa Ryder), who has been tracking them for her own elusive reasons, capturing Ling and tearing their foster family apart. Together, the group makes the choice to confront the pain of their pasts in order to change their futures and save Ling. This decision to fight fate kicks off a season of high-octane adventure where four wounded teens must learn to let their hopes, not their hurts, shape the future.

January 17

Is It Wrong to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon?: Complete Season 3 (SUBBED) (Infinite Frontiers)

No Escape (2020)

January 18

I Don’t Know How She Does It (2011)

January 19

9-1-1: Season 4 Premiere (FOX)

9-1-1: Lone Star: Season 2 Premiere (FOX)

January 20

90 Day Fiancé: Self-Quarantined: Complete Season 1 (TLC)

A Very Brady Renovation: Complete Season 1 (HGTV)

Car Kings: Complete Season 1 (Discovery)

Cutthroat Kitchen: Complete Season 14 (Food Network)

Gold Rush: Complete Season 10 (Discovery)

House Hunters International: Complete Season 138 (HGTV)

House Hunters: Complete Season 163 (HGTV)

Property Brothers: Forever Home: Complete Season 1 (HGTV)

Puppy Bowl: Complete Seasons 14 & 15 (Animal Planet)

River Monsters: Complete Season 9 (Animal Planet)

Rob Riggle: Global Investigator: Complete Season 1 (Discovery)

Rock The Block: Complete Season 1 (HGTV)

Save My Skin: Complete Season 1 (TLC)

Torn from the Headlines: New York Post Reports: Complete Season 1 (ID)

Who Killed Jeffrey Epstein?: Complete Season 1 (ID)

Worst Bakers in America: Complete Season 2 (Food Network)

Worst Cooks in America: Complete Season 17 (Food Network)

January 22

Grown-ish: Season 3B Premiere (Freeform)

Terra Willy (2020)

Derek Delgaudio’s In & Of Itself: Film Special Premiere (Hulu Original)
Derek Delgaudio’s In & Of Itself is a new kind of lyric poem. It tells the story of a man fighting to see through the illusion of his own identity, only to discover that identity itself is an illusion. An intimate and powerful exploration of what it means to be and be seen, the film chronicles Derek DelGaudio’s attempt to answer one deceptively simple question, “Who am I?” His personal journey expands to a collective experience that forces us to confront the boundaries of our own identities.

The Sister: Complete Season 1 (Hulu Original)

Disney+How far would you go to keep a secret? One rainy evening, Nathan (Russell Tovey) is surprised by an unwelcome face from the past. Nathan has never been able to forget the worst night of his life: a party that led to the sudden, shocking death of a young woman. Only he and Bob (Bertie Carvel), an eccentric old acquaintance, know what really happened… and they’ve resolved to keep it that way. But years later, Bob appears at Nathan’s door with terrifying news that threatens to tear Nathan’s world apart. Because Nathan has his own secrets now. Secrets that could destroy everything he has desperately fought to build for himself and his family. The four-part series is written by Neil Cross and is inspired by the novel Burial, also written by Neil Cross (Luther, Hard Sun, Mama).

January 27

Mixed-Ish: Season 2 Premiere (ABC)

Disney+
Mixed-Ish

The Haves and Have Nots: Complete Season 7B (OWN)

January 29

Jann: Complete Seasons 1 & 2 (Distribution 360)
In Jann, Jann Arden plays a fictionalized, self-deprecating version of herself: a singer-songwriter of a “certain age” in severe denial of the harsh reality that her former music career is slowly (okay, rapidly) fading away. But it’s not just Jann’s career that’s on life support – she’s newly single (don’t remind her), her sister may disown her, and her mother may be showing early signs of memory loss. Jann’s personal life is in shambles and she’s convinced that the cure-all is to enlist a new manager to help rebrand her image. Filled with plenty of LOL moments, she embarks on a quest to return to greatness and go viral but instead gets tangled in the pressures of her ‘real’ life. Jann is at the crossroads between who she was and who she wants to be. Can Jann stage a comeback, reclaim fame…and be there for the people who love her?

‘The Beatles: Get Back’ Sneak Peek Surprise in 2020 by Peter Jackson

The Beatles

Acclaimed filmmaker Peter Jackson has released an exclusive sneak peek of his upcoming documentary “The Beatles: Get Back” for fans everywhere to enjoy. The 5-minute special look is available to fans worldwide on TheBeatles.com and streaming on Disney+. 

Jackson said, “We wanted to give the fans of The Beatles all over the world a holiday treat, so we put together this five-minute sneak peek at our upcoming theatrical film ‘The Beatles: Get Back.’ We hope it will bring a smile to everyone’s faces and some much-needed joy at this difficult time.”

The Beatles

“The Beatles: Get Back” Film Info

Acclaimed filmmaker Peter Jackson’s “The Beatles: Get Back” is a unique cinematic experience that takes audiences back in time to The Beatles’ intimate recording sessions during a pivotal moment in music history. The film showcases the warmth, camaraderie and creative genius that defined the legacy of the iconic foursome. Shot in January 1969 and compiled from over 60 hours of unseen footage (filmed by Michael Lindsay-Hogg) and more than 150 hours of unheard audio, all of which has been brilliantly restored, “The Beatles: Get Back” is the story of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr as they plan their first live show in over two years and charts the writing and rehearsing of 14 new songs, originally intended for release on an accompanying live album.

The film features – for the first time in its entirety – The Beatles’ last live performance as a group, the unforgettable rooftop concert on London’s Savile Row as well as other songs and classic compositions featured on the band’s final two albums, Abbey Road and Let It Be. 

An exciting new collaboration between The Beatles and three-time Oscar®-winning filmmaker Peter Jackson (“The Lord of the Rings” trilogy, “They Shall Not Grow Old”) presented by The Walt Disney Studios in association with Apple Corps Ltd. and WingNut Films Productions Ltd., “The Beatles: Get Back” is directed by Jackson, produced by Jackson, Clare Olssen (“They Shall Not Grow Old”) and Jonathan Clyde (“Eight Days A Week”), with Ken Kamins (“The Hobbit” trilogy) and Apple Corps’ Jeff Jones (“Eight Days A Week”) serving as executive producers. Jabez Olssen (“Rogue One: A Star Wars Story”) serves as the film’s editor, and the music is mixed by Giles Martin (“Rocketman”) and Sam Okell (“Yesterday”). 

“The Beatles: Get Back” will open in US theaters on August 27, 2021.

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