“Us Again” Disney’s New 2021 Short Press Conference

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March 2, 2021

“Us Again,” a vibrant and original new theatrical animated short from director Zach Parrish that brings together dance, music, emotional storytelling, and inspired animation, is set to debut exclusively in theaters worldwide beginning on March 5, playing on the same bill as Walt Disney Animation Studios’ (WDAS) newest animated feature, “Raya and the Last Dragon.”

During a special virtual press conference, we heard from Director Zach Parrish, Producer Brad Simonsen and Choreographers/Dancers Keone & Mari Madrid about the making of this new animated short.

Parrish is an eleven-year veteran of Disney Animation who served as head of animation on “Big Hero 6” and director of the Short Circuit film, “Puddles,” in addition to his numerous animation credits on features for the Studio.

Award-winning choreographers/dancers Keone and Mari (featured performers on “World of Dance,” and renowned for their collaborations with such top talents as Justin Bieber and Billie Eilish), and acclaimed composer Pinar Toprak (“Captain Marvel”) brought their unique talents to this experimental and musical fantasy.

The short is produced by Brad Simonsen (associate producer on “Big Hero 6,” “Zootopia” and “Ralph Breaks the Internet”), and executive produced by Jennifer Lee, chief creative officer for Walt Disney Animation Studios (WDAS).

“Us Again” Press Conference Highlights

Parrish started on how he came up with ideas for the short. We pitched four ideas actually in the development process, but this idea, in particular, came from a time in my life when I was, kind of struggling with the changes that go along with aging. I was kind of, you know, bemoaning my aging body.

I’m not a-not a super old person, but I was starting to recognize those changes in myself and it kind of led me to these conversations that I would have with my mom where she would always talk about all the great things that she was gonna do when she grew up.

And it really made me stop and realize that, um, I kinda had my priorities wrong. I was looking in the wrong direction, and-and if I’m always looking in the past, then I’m gonna miss the beauty in the now. And I’m old by my own definition, and she’s young by hers. And so that idea of youth being a state of mind, really got my gears turning and I really thought it’d be fun to do a fountain of youth story.

Simonsen discussed the score for the short by saying, Zach knew that the foundation of this had to be the music. Choreography and music were the foundation of the short. Tom McDougal, who is, head of music, at Disney Animation, brought in Pinar Toprak, who did Captain Marvel. She did the score. What we didn’t know at the time was that actually, although Pinar’s amazing at doing scores, she loves funk.

Keone and Mari discussed when they joined the project and how excited to work with Walt Disney Animation. I believe we came in, around April-ish. April of, 2019. I remember
‘cause I think I was about six months pregnant on our first meeting when we came in and it’s just been, like, a dream. We’re huge Disney fans.

We have been dancing for so long and choreographing. The one thing that we are so passionate about is the story, and just the marriage of the project was just instantaneous as soon as we, you know, heard what the ideas were and, and we’ve been trying to tell stories through dance our entire careers.

The film is Disney Animation’s first new theatrical short since the 2016 release of “Inner Workings,” which accompanied “Moana” on the big screen. “Us Again” is scheduled to make its streaming debut in June on Disney+.

Film Review: “Raya and the Last Dragon”

By

Brett Reider

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March 1, 2021

In August 2019, Disney officially announced the production of Raya and the Last Dragon at the D23 Expo. This would be their 59th animated film, with a scheduled release in November 2020. It would also mark the directorial debut of Paul Briggs and Dean Wellins, both of whom had multiple credits on previous films as writers, story artists, and voiceovers. The story was to be written by Kiel Murray, who had screenplay credits on Cars and Cars 3.

With 2020 being what it was, Disney was forced to shift their entire release schedule of animated and live-action films, including Pixar and Marvel releases, and Raya was moved to March 2021. By August 2020, it was revealed that new directors were being brought in after the film had also undergone rewrites. They also re-cast the lead character with Star Wars alum Kelly Marie Tran, joining previously announced Awkwafina as the last dragon Sisu. Additional cast was announced in January 2021 with the final trailer, as well as Disney’s intention to simultaneously release in theaters and on Disney+ Premier Access. And now nearly 18 months after their last animated release, Raya and the Last Dragon is here.

Set in the fictional world of Kumandra, this magical land was once home to dragons and humans living together. After facing a threat from monsters called the Druun, which resemble fast-moving, purple clouds of chaotic energy that turn living creatures to stone, the dragons sacrificed themselves to save the human race, leaving behind the Dragon Gem as a remnant of their magic.

Now 500 years later, a rift between the 5 clans of Kumandra have reawakened the monsters after the gem is broken and its pieces stolen by each clan. It’s up to a warrior named Raya to locate the last remaining dragon Sisu, recover the pieces of the gem and stop the Druun from destroying Kumandra entirely.

Kumandra is inspired by Southeastern Asian culture, located around a body of water shaped like a dragon and broken into 5 separate lands named after its parts: Fang, Heart, Spine, Talon, and Tail. Traveling with her giant pet pill bug named Tuk Tuk, Raya follows a legend to locate Sisu at the far end of Tail. After finding Sisu, she must make her way back home to Heart and collect the broken pieces of the gem from each land during their journey. Each new piece they collect gives Sisu a new power, one previously held by one of her dragon siblings.

All the while, warriors from Fang are attempting to stop Raya as she tries to hide Sisu’s existence. And the Druun continues to ravage Kumandra, with its only weaknesses being water and the powers of the Dragon Gem. Can the people of Kumandra learn to put aside their past in order to survive? Or will their inability to trust one another be their downfall?

There is a lot going on in this story. And while Raya and the Last Dragon attempts to cover a lot of ground (both figuratively and literally in Kumandra), the story overall does not feel cohesive. Despite having some beautiful scenery to play within Kumandra, barely enough time is spent in each land to really appreciate them or get a feel for the distinct cultures of each clan. Based on the last-minute change in directors, as well as multiple rewrites (6 writers credited total), it seems as though scenes were rushed or redone late in production.

The animation quality varies heavily from location to location, with some places being very detailed and others seeming like direct-to-video movies from the early 2000s. This is also noticeable with certain characters, especially some of the warriors from Fang. It was a distraction that pulled me out of the story.

Another issue may have also been the recasting of Raya. It’s unclear how much of the film had already been recorded with the original voice actress, or if Kelly Marie Tran was brought in sooner than the August 2020 announcement.

Regardless, there was a disconnect between her voice and the character on screen, which made Raya a less compelling lead. She didn’t convey a lot of emotion and lacked strong personality traits like other main characters in films like Tangled, Moana, or Frozen. The main characters in those films are so closely matched to their voice actors.

Sisu on the other hand, voiced by Awkwafina, had clearly been animated in a way to highlight her comedic delivery. While I found some of her moments a bit goofy or tonally disconnected from the film, it was clear she inspired the character’s design from the start.

Where Raya and the Last Dragon excels is in its message about trust. In a world where there is currently a divide amongst people, whether it be political or ideological, many of those feelings are based on preconceived notions. The film shows that in order to survive, sometimes you have to put aside past differences, trust those that may think differently, and come together for a common good. The climax of the film is fairly strong and drives that point home well.

Overall, Raya and the Last Dragon feels like a missed opportunity. It has a good message but poor execution. It’s very possible the production of this film suffered due to the pandemic, with different teams working on it remotely. Late changes in directors and multiple writers lead me to believe that was the case.

Ironically a joke is made by Sisu in the film about team projects and how everyone gets the same grade regardless of their effort. The production of any film is very much a team project, but it feels like everyone wasn’t on the same page for this one. While not a lost cause, Raya and the Last Dragon is forgettable and one of Disney’s weakest animated efforts in the last several years.

Score: 5 / 10

Huntington Library reveals Incredible New Chinese Gardens

By

Greg Aragon, Writer Greg's Getaway

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February 27, 2021

Huntington Library is a beautiful and relaxing outdoor getaway for the day, the new Chinese Gardens, the Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens are spectacular sights to behold. Reopened to the public this summer, the Liu Fang Yuan, or Garden of Flowing Fragrance, is one of the largest classical-style Chinese gardens in the world.

Inspired by the centuries-old Chinese tradition of private gardens, Liu Fang Yuan is filled with Chinese plants and framed by exquisite architecture. The landscape is enriched with references to literature and art. Visitors can find both physical relaxation and mental stimulation when exploring the dramatic 15-acre garden.

Liu Fang Yuan is a tribute to the gardens of Suzhou, a city located near Shanghai in southeastern China. During the Ming dynasty (1368–1644), wealthy scholars and merchants there built tasteful private gardens combining architecture, waterworks, rockeries, plants, and calligraphy. Many of the features in Liu Fang Yuan are modeled on specific Suzhou gardens, eight of which are depicted in the woodcarvings in the Love for the Lotus Pavilion.

Upon entering the gardens the first thing that struck me was all the peaceful ponds and bridges surrounded by meandering walking paths, hundreds of plants and trees and stunning architecture. One of the highlights is the Stargazing Tower, a hillside pavilion situated on the highest point in the garden.

Boasting memorable views of the water, pavilions, treetops, mountains, and skies, the tower pays homage to nearby Mt. Wilson Observatory, which is visible from the tower, and to the work of astronomer Edwin Hubble, a neighbor of library founder Henry Huntington. Hubble’s papers are part of the Library’s holdings in the history of science.

Rocks are also an important part of the Suzhou gardens. The stones found throughout Liu Fang Yuan are a type of limestone traditionally harvested from the bed of Lake Tai near Suzhou. The rocks for Huntington’s exhibits were quarried in various regions of China.

For more than 1,200 years, these rocks have been renowned for their strange shapes and many holes. Particularly prized individual specimens, like the towering stone near the teahouse, “Patching Up the Sky,” were seen as embodying energy-like ethers, or “qi.”

Like all Suzhou-style gardens, Liu Fang Yuan has written text on the structures. Every pavilion and courtyard bears a name in Chinese characters. And the entrances to some buildings are also adorned with poetic couplets.

These calligraphic inscriptions were written by more than 30 contemporary artists from mainland China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, the United States, and the United Kingdom. The names and couplets that they have inscribed are drawn from classic works of Chinese literature.

Like the text, the construction of the gardens was also a masterful collaboration. Construction of the garden was an international partnership between Chinese and American architects, contractors, and craftsmen who worked together to ensure the gardens are authentic to Chinese traditions of architecture and landscape design while meeting state and federal regulations for seismic safety and accessibility.

Los Angeles architect Jim Fry developed the detailed construction plans for the expansion, based on the conceptual designs of the Suzhou Institute of Landscape Architecture Design in China. To keep things as authentic as possible, Chinese artisans from the Suzhou Garden Development Co., Ltd. worked on-site for several months to complete important details by hand. These craftsmen specialize is skills such as wood carving, roof tiling, and stone masonry.

The 16-acre Chinese Gardens are just one part of Huntington’s massive outdoor displays. In all, the preserve covers more than 200 acres, of which 120 acres are gardens. In 1903 Henry E. Huntington (1850–1927) purchased the San Marino Ranch, a working ranch about 12 miles from downtown Los Angeles with citrus groves, nut and fruit orchards, alfalfa crops, a small herd of cows, and poultry.

Huntington’s superintendent, William Hertrich (1878–1966), was instrumental in developing the various plant collections that comprise the foundation of The Huntington’s botanical gardens. The property—originally nearly 600 acres—today covers 207 acres, 120 of which are open to visitors and include some 15,000 different varieties of plants.

Other themed gardens at the library include tributes to Australia, Japan, California, children, camellias, the desert, herbs, the jungle, lily ponds, roses, the subtropics, sculptures & fountains, and a mausoleum.

The Huntington is currently beginning a phased reopening; the gardens are now open, while galleries remain closed. All visitors, including Members, must reserve tickets online in advance. The Library is located at 1151 Oxford Rd., San Marino, CA 91108. For hours and admission, call 626-405-2100 or visit: www.huntington.org.

Disney and Pixar’s Original Feature Film “Luca” Releases New Trailer

By

Robbie Bulus

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February 25, 2021

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

Luca Voice Cast:

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

Set in a beautiful seaside town on the Italian Riviera, Disney and Pixar’s original feature film “Luca” is a coming-of-age story about one young boy experiencing an unforgettable summer filled with gelato, pasta and endless scooter rides. Luca shares these adventures with his newfound best friend, but all the fun is threatened by a deeply-held secret: they are sea monsters from another world just below the water’s surface. Directed by Academy Award® nominee Enrico Casarosa (“La Luna”) and produced by Andrea Warren (“Lava,” “Cars 3”), “Luca” releases Summer 2021.

A Touch of Disney Limited-Capacity Event Coming March 18

By

Socalthrills Staff

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February 24, 2021

It’s time to experience some of the sights, sounds and flavors of the Disneyland Resort with A Touch of Disney, a new, limited-capacity ticketed experience that begins March 18 at Disney California Adventure park. A Touch of Disney offers some of the world-famous food and beverages from around the resort, plus a chance to see Disney characters, shop for the latest Disney merchandise and pose at unique photo locations.

A selection of iconic food and beverage items from both Disneyland park and Disney California Adventure park will be available for guests to enjoy, from churros and the world-famous DOLE Whip® to the classic Monte Cristo sandwich usually found in New Orleans Square. Many items will be served snack-sized, so guests can delight in a variety of bites and sips from mid-day through the evening. These guest-favorites will be available at locations around the park, including Smokejumpers Grill, Adorable Snowman Frosted Treats, Award Wieners, Cocina Cucamonga and six seasonal and creatively themed marketplaces.

Select retail locations also will be open, selling the latest apparel, accessories and souvenirs, including new, adorable Disney NuiMos. Pop in and out of the shops along Buena Vista Street or guests can head to Bing Bong’s Sweet Stuff along Pixar Pier for a selection of treats including themed candy apples.

While exploring the park, guests can capture photos at iconic locations and discover new photo-worthy spots – some that are available only for those who attend A Touch of Disney. Guests might catch a wave from Mickey Mouse and his pals doing some unexpected things, or see Mater and Lightning McQueen in Cars Land. To help set the stage for A Touch of Disney, a new, specially curated soundtrack of reimagined Disney songs will be broadcast throughout the park, along with updates and reminders about many Can’t-miss experiences. Attractions remain closed for now.

A Taste of Disney Info:

● Dates: Beginning Mar. 18; offered Thursdays – Mondays from noon to 8 p.m.

● Pricing: The introductory $75 ticket includes admission, parking for the experience at Mickey & Friends parking structure, unlimited downloads of Disney PhotoPass photos taken during the day of the experience, and a $25 A Touch of Disney dining card valid towards the purchase of food and non-alcoholic beverages (subject to restrictions including not being valid for alcohol).

● Tickets: A Touch of Disney tickets will be available only on Disneyland.com beginning March 4, for select days from March 18 through April 5, 2021. Tickets for this experience will then be released for dates on a rolling basis until the experience ends. Tickets must be purchased in advance and online at Disneyland.com for a specific date (subject to availability). Ticket prices are subject to change.

● Dining: Beginning March 11th, table reservations for Lamplight Lounge and Carthay Circle Lounge – Alfresco Dining will be made available for A Touch of Disney. Table reservations do not provide admission to A Touch of Disney and dining at those locations requires A Touch of Disney ticket that is valid on the same day as the table reservation. Reservations are recommended, and additional details are coming soon.

Downtown Disney District will remain open seven days a week with unique dining and shopping that includes Black Tap Craft Burgers and Shakes, Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen, Naples Ristorante e Bar, World of Disney and Star Wars Trading Post, which recently opened in a new location. Buena Vista Street will remain open as an extension of the Downtown Disney District through March 14, and will be closed beginning March 15. Beginning March 18, Buena Vista Street will become part of A Touch of Disney.

With the health and safety of everyone in mind, A Touch of Disney will operate with limited capacity and enhanced health and safety measures in place based on guidance from health authorities, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and appropriate government agencies.

*Tickets for the experience will not be available at the Resort, are non-refundable, and may not be resold or transferred for commercial use. The number of tickets available are limited and no discounts apply. Each guest may purchase up to eight tickets. Tickets not required for Guests ages 2 and under. Disney PhotoPass is subject to the Disney PhotoPass terms and conditions. Online registration required. Experience elements and information including, but not limited to, offerings, menu items, merchandise, and services, are subject to restrictions, change or cancellation without notice. No refunds are given for any such changes or cancellations whether due to inclement weather or otherwise.

Walt Disney World Resort Celebrates 50 Magical years, Begins Oct. 1

By

Socalthrills Staff

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February 19, 2021

On Oct. 1, 1971, Walt Disney World Resort officially opened to guests for the first time, the culmination of years spent imagining, planning, and developing Walt Disney’s magical dream. In the five decades since the vacation destination continued to expand with new stories and characters and adventures to cherish for a lifetime. And now with a major milestone approaching, guests can share in “The World’s Most Magical Celebration” beginning Oct. 1, 2021, in honor of the resort’s 50th anniversary.

This 18-month celebratory event will feature new experiences at the resort’s four theme parks and beyond, where shimmering EARidescent décor will appear as if by magic. Shining at the center of it all will be Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom Park, which will add to its royal makeover from 2020 with new gold bunting, sparkling golden embellishments and other new enhancements, including a 50th-anniversary crest warmly welcoming guests to join the festivities.

Walt Disney World Beacons of Light

As part of “The World’s Most Magical Celebration,” icons at each Walt Disney World theme park will transform into magnificent Beacons of Magic at night, coming to life with their own EARidescent glow.

Cinderella Castle will illuminate Magic Kingdom with a dazzling radiance that sparkles with pixie dust.

At Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, a warm light will emanate from the Tree of Life as magical fireflies gather to usher in the magic of nature.

The Hollywood Tower Hotel at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will be awash in brilliance evoking the golden age of imagination and adventure.

And at EPCOT, new lights will shine across the reflective panels of Spaceship Earth, connecting to one another in a symbol of optimism resembling stars in a nighttime sky. The iconic structure’s permanent new lighting will continue beyond “The World’s Most Magical Celebration” as a defining feature of the park.

Mickey and Minnie: Dressed for the Occasion

As hosts of “The World’s Most Magical Celebration,” Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse will be dressed in sparkling new looks, custom-made for this special occasion. Highlights of these celebratory designs include beautifully embroidered impressions of Cinderella Castle backed by fireworks, as well as a brocade in multi-toned, EARidescent fabric – all punctuated with pops of gold.

Joining Mickey and Minnie, Walt Disney World cast members will be at the heart of this event. They will demonstrate yet again why they are renowned for their commitment to service, consistently exceeding guests’ expectations by going above and beyond to make visits to The Most Magical Place on Earth special.

Six Flags Magic Mountain presents Cruis’n the Park Car Show

By

Socalthrills Staff

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February 18, 2021

For the first time ever, world-famous West Coast Customs and the Thrill Capital of the World, Six Flags Magic Mountain, will showcase a drive-thru car show that winds along the park midways. This once-in-a-lifetime experience will include 100 of the world’s best automotive displays from muscle cars and hot rods to low riders and mini trucks. Themed music and entertainment will be integrated into each featured section providing many jaw-dropping vehicle art displays.

About Six Flags Magic Mountain Cruis’n the Park Car Show

The 30-minute cruise through the park will be presented and narrated by Ryan Friedlinghaus, CEO of West Coast Customs, via a specially designed app available for free download. There will be something for every auto enthusiast along the event route, including cars, trucks, motorcycles, and watercraft, all to be viewed from the safety of guests’ own cars.

“It has been a dream of mine for over 10 years to put together a family event like this!” said West Coast Customs Founder & CEO, Ryan Friedlinghaus.

“I’m excited to say it is official as we are about to make some new history together with Six Flags Magic Mountain. It’s the first-ever drive-thru car show in a theme park where LA’s top vehicles from all different categories, mini trucks to low riders and everything in between, will be displayed. This event will take you on a trip down memory lane and also make new memories for families to share together.”

Six Flags Park President, Don McCoy, continues by saying, “We’re thrilled to host this event with West Coast Customs. We know that people are searching for fun and safe activities to do with their families. This is a really innovative concept that is sure to offer a fun experience for car lovers of all ages”.

Six Flags Magic Mountain

The West Coast Customs Cruis’n the Park Car Show will run for a limited time – every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from February 26 – March 14. To control and manage capacity, limited reservations will be available each date and will be required by all guests in advance using Six Flags’ new online reservation system.

Special event admission tickets for this first-ever event will be available on a first-come, first-served basis and will be sold per car. Admission discounts are available for active Memberships and Season Passes, and reservations will be required. Ticket sales will not be available at the gate. For more information on West Coast Customs Cruis’n the Park Car Show, visit their website at www.sixflags.com/magicmountain

The safety of guests and team members is always Six Flags’ top priority. The new West Coast Customs Cruis’n the Park Car Show at Six Flags Magic Mountain will offer a contactless experience that follows CDC, state, and county health and safety guidelines. To prevent overcrowding and provide proper social distancing, a limited number of cars will be allowed on each date.

A full list of safety requirements for the event is available on the park’s website at www.sixflags.com/magicmountain, including LA County’s guidelines for vehicle-based events. Event requirements include the use of masks if windows are down, no smoking, littering, stopping, or exiting vehicles.

Due to the limited size of certain areas and terrain within the park, only cars, SUVs, vans, and pick-up trucks are permitted. No convertibles, busses, RVs, commercial vehicles, dually pick-up trucks, trailers, or motorcycles will be allowed. A maximum speed of three mph and maintaining a safe distance between cars will be strictly enforced.

As part of Six Flags’ comprehensive safety procedures, all employees are required to wear masks and are temperature-checked and health-screened each day. Gloves are worn as appropriate, per guidelines. As directed by current state regulations, no additional services will be available. Six Flags encourages guests to plan accordingly for restroom breaks, gasoline, and food. Only portable toilets will be available at the entrance and exit.

Marvel Studios “WandaVision” New Episode 7 Clip

By

Russell Tom

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February 18, 2021

An all-new clip from Episode 7 of Marvel Studios’ “WandaVision” is now available featuring Wanda Maximoff (Elizabeth Olsen), who’s not quite ready to accept that everything around her is unraveling. Episode 7 streams tomorrow exclusively on Disney+.

About “WandaVision”

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.

“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 reprises her role as Darcy from “Thor” and “Thor: The Dark World,” and Randall Park reprises his role as Jimmy Woo from “Ant-Man and The Wasp.” The series is directed by Matt Shakman with Jac Schaeffer as head writer. Featuring nine episodes, “WandaVision” is now streaming on Disney+.

Mortal Kombat debuts New Trailer, Poster and Images

By

Robbie Bulus

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February 18, 2021

From New Line Cinema comes the explosive new cinematic adventure “Mortal Kombat,” inspired by the blockbuster video game franchise, which most recently enjoyed the most successful video game launch in its history, Mortal Kombat 11. The film is helmed by award-winning Australian commercial filmmaker Simon McQuoid, marking his feature directorial debut, and produced by James Wan (“The Conjuring” universe films, “Aquaman,”), Todd Garner (“Into the Storm,” “Tag”), McQuoid and E. Bennett Walsh (“Men in Black: International,” “The Amazing Spider-Man 2”).

About Mortal Kombat

In “Mortal Kombat,” MMA fighter Cole Young, accustomed to taking a beating for money, is unaware of his heritage—or why Outworld’s Emperor Shang Tsung has sent his best warrior, Sub-Zero, an otherworldly Cryomancer, to hunt Cole down. Fearing for his family’s safety, Cole goes in search of Sonya Blade at the direction of Jax, a Special Forces Major who bears the same strange dragon marking Cole was born with.

Soon, he finds himself at the temple of Lord Raiden, an Elder God and the protector of Earthrealm, who grants sanctuary to those who bear the mark. Here, Cole trains with experienced warriors Liu Kang, Kung Lao and rogue mercenary Kano, as he prepares to stand with Earth’s greatest champions against the enemies of Outworld in a high-stakes battle for the universe. But will Cole be pushed hard enough to unlock his arcana—the immense power from within his soul—in time to save not only his family but to stop Outworld once and for all?

The diverse international cast reflects the global nature of the brand, with talent spanning the worlds of film, television and martial arts. The ensemble includes Lewis Tan (“Deadpool 2,” Netflix’s “Wu Assassins”) as Cole Young; Jessica McNamee (“The Meg”) as Sonya Blade; Josh Lawson (“Bombshell”) as Kano; Tadanobu Asano (“Midway”) as Lord Raiden; Mehcad Brooks (TV’s “Supergirl”) as Jackson “Jax” Bridges; Ludi Lin (“Aquaman”) as Liu Kang; with Chin Han (“Skyscraper”) as Shang Tsung; Joe Taslim (“Star Trek Beyond”) as Bi-Han and Sub-Zero; and Hiroyuki Sanada (“Skyscraper”) as Hanzo Hasashi and Scorpion. Also featured are Max Huang as Kung Lao; Sisi Stringer as Mileena; Matilda Kimber as Emily Young; and Laura Brent as Allison Young.

McQuoid directed from a screenplay by Greg Russo and Dave Callaham (“Wonder Woman 1984”), from a story by Oren Uziel (“Mortal Kombat: Rebirth”) and Russo, based on the videogame created by Ed Boon and John Tobias. Richard Brener, Dave Neustadter, Victoria Palmeri, Michael Clear, Jeremy Stein and Larry Kasanoff served as executive producers.

Bringing the hugely popular property to the big screen, McQuoid led a team of Australian and U.S. filmmakers, including director of photography Germain McMicking (“True Detective,” “Top of the Lake: China Girl”), production designer Naaman Marshall (“Underwater,” “Servant”), editors Dan Lebental (“Spider-Man: Far From Home”) and Scott Gray (“Top of the Lake,” “Daffodils”), visual effect supervisor Chris Godfrey (“Hacksaw Ridge”) and costume designer Cappi Ireland (“Lion,” “The Rover”). The music is by Benjamin Wallfisch (“Blade Runner 2049,” the “IT” films).

New Line Cinema presents an Atomic Monster/Broken Road Production, “Mortal Kombat.” The film is set for release nationwide on April 16, 2021, in theaters and will be available in the U.S. on HBO Max for 31 days from the theatrical release. It will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures.

Disney’s ‘DuckTales’ Ends in an Epic 90-Minute Series Finale

By

Socalthrills Staff

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February 18, 2021

Disney’s critically acclaimed “DuckTales” will solve some mysteries and rewrite history with an epic 90-minute series finale special MONDAY, MARCH 15, (7:00 p.m. EDT/PDT), on Disney XD and ungated in DisneyNOW. Executive produced by Matt Youngberg and co-executive produced by Francisco Angones, the Emmy^® Award-nominated “DuckTales” team wrapped production after 75 episodes and more than 15 shorts.

The series continues to be available on Disney Channels and Disney+ around the world. In the U.S., the series is the #1 ratings driver on Disney XD and has reached over 234 million views on social media and YouTube since its launch in 2017.

Culminating in a memorable, dramatic reading of the iconic “DuckTales” main title song, the cast met one final time via Zoom during the recent holiday season—David Tennant (“Scrooge McDuck”), Danny Pudi (“Huey”), Ben Schwartz (“Dewey”), Bobby Moynihan (“Louie”), Kate Micucci (“Webby Vanderquack”), Beck Bennett (“Launchpad McQuack”), Toks Olagundoye (“Mrs. Beakley”) and Paget Brewster (“Della Duck”).

In a joint statement, Youngberg and Angones said, “It has been an absolute honor to adventure along with the Duck Family for three seasons of derring-do bad and good luck tales. Ever since Carl Barks took a silly squawking duck from a funny animal cartoon and sent him looking for pirate gold, these characters have been part of a constantly evolving legacy of invention and reinvention.

We set out to honor all those things that we’ve loved about ‘DuckTales’ since we were kids and introduce new parts of that legacy for families around the globe. Along the way, our stellar crew, unbelievable cast and endlessly supportive fans have become a bit of a family ourselves. And it has been a great joy to solve mysteries and rewrite history alongside them.”

DuckTales

The series finale special will encore non-stop for 24 hours following its premiere. Leading up to the finale, Disney XD will debut new episodes every Monday beginning FEB. 22 (7:00 p.m. EST/PST) and will present a week-long “DuckTales” marathon of every aired episode beginning MONDAY, MARCH 8 (7:30 p.m. EST/PST). In addition, three new “Chibi Tiny Tales” shorts, featuring Chibi-style versions of favorite “DuckTales” characters, will roll out beginning FRIDAY, FEB. 26, on Disney XD, DisneyNOW and Disney Channel YouTube.

Based on the Emmy Award-winning series treasured by a generation of viewers, “DuckTales” chronicles the high-flying adventures of Duckburg’s most famous trillionaire Scrooge McDuck; his mischief-making triplet grandnephews, Huey, Dewey and Louie; temperamental nephew, Donald Duck (voiced by Disney Legend Tony Anselmo); and the trusted McDuck Manor team: big-hearted, fearless chauffer/pilot Launchpad McQuack, no-nonsense housekeeper Mrs. Beakley and Mrs. Beakley’s granddaughter, Webby Vanderquack, resident adventurer and the triplet’s fierce friend.

In the finale titled “The Last Adventure!,” the future of adventuring hangs in the balance as the Duck family uncovers earth-shattering secrets in a final standoff with the Fiendish Organization for World Larceny (F.O.W.L.).

Returning guest voices include Lin-Manuel Miranda, Giancarlo Esposito, Julie Bowen, Jaime Camil, Jameela Jamil, Catherine Tate, Stephanie Beatriz, Paul F. Tompkins, Jim Rash, Margo Martindale, Jason Mantzoukas, John Hodgman, Retta, Kimiko Glenn, Libe Barer, Jaleel White and Amy Sedaris. Noël Wells and Riki Lindhome guest star as sisters, June and May, respectively.

“DuckTales” is a production of Disney Television Animation and carries a TV-Y7 parental guideline.

Flora & Ulysses “Feeling Like a Hero” Featurette

By

Robbie Bulus

-

February 18, 2021

Disney+ has released the featurette ‘Feeling Like a Hero” for the new comedy-adventure “Flora & Ulysses,” premiering exclusively on Disney+ on Friday, February 19, 2021.

Flora & 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.

New Disney Short “Us Again” Debuts with “Raya and the Last Dragon” in Theaters

By

Robbie Bulus

-

February 15, 2021

“Us Again,” a vibrant and original new theatrical animated short from director Zach Parrish that brings together dance, music, emotional storytelling, and inspired animation, is set to debut exclusively in theaters worldwide beginning on March 5, playing on the same bill as Walt Disney Animation Studios’ (WDAS) newest animated feature, “Raya and the Last Dragon.” The film is Disney Animation’s first new theatrical short since the 2016 release of “Inner Workings,” which accompanied “Moana” on the big screen. “Us Again” is scheduled to make its streaming debut in June on Disney+.

Parrish is an eleven-year veteran of Disney Animation who served as head of animation on “Big Hero 6” and director of the Short Circuit film, “Puddles,” in addition to his numerous animation credits on features for the Studio. Award-winning choreographers/dancers Keoneand Mari (featured performers on “World of Dance,” and renowned for their collaborations with such top talents as Justin Bieber and Billie Eilish), and acclaimed composer Pinar Toprak(“Captain Marvel”) brought their unique talents to this experimental and musical fantasy. The film is produced by Brad Simonsen (associate producer on “Big Hero 6,” “Zootopia” and “Ralph Breaks the Internet”), and executive produced by Jennifer Lee, chief creative officer for Walt Disney Animation Studios (WDAS).

Commenting on the announcement, WDAS President Clark Spencer said, “We’re thrilled to be premiering our first new theatrical short in five years, ‘Us Again,’ exclusively on the big screen alongside our incredible new feature, ‘Raya and the Last Dragon.’ Zach has tapped into elements from his personal life, and collaborated with the very best in the world of dance and music to create this very special film. We are so proud of what they have accomplished and look forward to sharing it with movie theater goers in March, and then in June on Disney Plus.”

Lee added, “One of my priorities has been to bring back theatrical animated shorts and to give artists at our Studio an opportunity to explore new ideas. ‘Us Again’ has so much spirit and energy, and pushes the boundaries of our short-form storytelling.”

Set in a vibrant city pulsating with rhythm and movement, an elderly man and his young-at-heart wife rekindle their youthful passion for life and each other on one magical night. The years fade away as the joy of dancing propels them across the exciting cityscape of their youth and revives fond memories and ambitions. “Us Again” is told entirely without dialogue and set to an original funk and soul musical score reminiscent of the mid-60s.

About “Us Again”

“Working with Keone and Mari was the key to making this film work,” recalls Parrish. “From the very beginning, I knew that I wanted this film to be music-driven. And I felt that dance is a universal language that can translate into any culture. I loved that their dance style felt like it was made for animation, and that there was this genuine, honest and organic connection between them because they were actually a married couple in real life.

The story itself was inspired by my own grandparents, who faced getting older in different ways, along with my own physical limitations in playing sports resulting from getting older and injuries. I started thinking about how someone might look at the world differently as things change and they grow older.”

Simonsen adds, “It was fascinating to see the process and the close collaboration between the music, the choreography and Zach’s vision for layout and animation. The film has a timeless and life-affirming message and an emotional resonance that is uniquely entertaining. Zach’s love of dance and animation, and his willingness to take chances as a filmmaker, made this a true labor of love.”

Keone observes, “Mari and I have always dreamed of having our particular style of movement being incorporated within animation. Our style is very new and young and we were like kids in a candy store working with Zach and the team to capture it and see our movements realized through the characters in the film.”

“From the first time we saw the storyboards, I was already tearing up,” adds Mari. “The characters were easy to relate to and to empathize with. As a married couple, we tried to imagine being their age, and we also thought about our own grandparents in bringing the characters to life through dance.”

Socalthrills.com

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