Disney California Adventure’s Sunset Showcase Theater has rolled out the red carpet for their new show, Mickey’s PhilharMagic. Coming to the Disneyland Resort for the first time ever, the Walt Disney World favorite is now playing daily for guests of all ages!
For those who haven’t experienced it, the show features Mickey Mouse as he prepares for a magical night of symphonic melodies in a special concert with the help of a very familiar enchanted hat. Just when the show is about to begin, Donald Duck bursts in, taking the audience on an unforgettable journey across the world of classic Disney moments that feature Aladdin, The Little Mermaid, and so much more!
The show includes a fully interactive experience that features 3D animation, special effects, and immersive sensations. Inspired by Walt Disney’s concept for Fantasia, it’s a spectacular fun filled event that the whole family can appreciate. Whether it’s your first time seeing the show or you have memorized it by heart, Mickey’s PhilharMagic brings the best of Mickey and Disney animation front and center.
Prepare yourself for a Cirque du Soleil experience like no other with their new traveling show, Amaluna. The big top performance will bring you ever closer to the spectacle, taking you on a journey of everlasting courage and bravery through mesmerizing feats of strength.
Loosely based and inspired by William Shakespeare’s The Tempest, Amaluna tells the story of an island of goddesses that is uncovered by a group of weary travelers washed by up a terrible storm. As time passes, love blooms between the native princess and one of the young men. Though love comes at a price, as their connection is tested throughout with themes of femininity, renewal, rebirth, and balance.
With the clever use of a revolving stage, every seat offers a clear view of the awe-inspiring performance. Every moment is filled with stunning visuals, bringing the story to life in a way that only Cirque du Soleil can.
The performance opens and closes with a mesmerizing silk-like ribbon that floats mid-air on stage with the use of multiple fans installed in the stage. The tranquility is met with a pair of uni-cyclists that blends seemingly comparable to a figure skating duet. A storm rages on with aerial strap artists that fill the upper half of the big top. The princess’s nanny makes a humorous love connection with one of the sailors throughout the show. A needed shift in tone to break the intensity between the series of death-dying acts.
Navigating thru a forest of pole dancers, the princess is found expressing her physicality in and around a water bowl that is used numerous of times with other acts. Her strength is shown with balancing feats of whimsy and her serenity by effortlessly flowing thru the water bowl. The island’s warriors demonstrate their tenacity with a series of interchanging uneven bars.
After the brief intermission, the hits just keep on coming. The shipwrecked sailors propel themselves on the teeter board escaping capture. Palm fronds of various lengths are balanced on one another in an act everyone will want to hold in their breath. Tipping over the smallest stick sent a chain reaction that demonstrated the delicate balance of any relationship. This patient act single-handily brought the audience to their feet.
A single row of performers gets a surreal bonus with the use of the rotating stage that helps the audience grasp the illusion of a thousand arm dancer. The love struck sailor utilizes a long pole in a bid to win the princess’ affections. In a visually appealing gesture, the princess’ pet lizard quite literally peals a layer “skin” off his arms before engaging the audience with his juggling skills atop the water bowl set piece.
In the final act, a group of acrobatics ends with evening with a high note. A delicate mix of gymnastics and ballet that crescendos with a woman atop of three men on standing on top of one another. There was even a moment of what can only be described as a four-person handstand (three men on the stage floor and one woman on top). It’s safe to say that every performer on stage brought the audience up in a wave of standing ovations.
It must also be noted that the individual members of the live band were notably brought away from confinement in an area off or slightly on stage. At various points in the show, they were right there on the same stage and steps as those of the acrobats. A very much appreciated acknowledgment of their skills and equally valuable members of the show not shown to be cast out of audience view.
Amaluna is visual and audio wonder not be missed for any fan of the Cirque du Soleli brand. It will leave you with piecing together the themes and symbolism of each act that brings together a sense of awe. Make sure to book your tickets and see the show, now playing at the La Waterfront until May 26th.
“Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle,” a dynamic, all-new light projection experience, comes to “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” at Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort
Something wicked this way comes to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood. Returning on May 25th, Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle will send Hogsmeade village into the depths of darkness.
Make sure to suit up in your wickedly evil robes and break out your Azkaban prison garb, as the party kicks off for a limited time run with a special digital projection show that is sure to bring a dastardly smirk to your face. The show features piles of skulls, crawling spiders, and other wicked creatures as they navigate in and around the majestic Hogwarts Castle.
It’s an experience that will leave you feeling mesmerized, unleashing the darkest creatures and villains from the Wizarding World right into Universal Studios. A new limited edition wand will also debut to mark the occasion as a Universal theme park exclusive. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the magic!
Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle returns May 25-27th at Universal Studios!
A new expedition in an uncharted territory awaits eager explorers with the upcoming debut of Calico River Rapids, opening at Knott’s Berry Farm. Knott’s popular Bigfoot Rapids white water raft ride will undergo a major renovation with the addition of new features to the attraction including new animatronics, themed show scenes, a new story overlay and plenty of dynamic water effects. The arrival of Calico River Rapids is one of the many exciting experiences that Knott’s guests can enjoy in 2019.
On the outskirts of Calico, a new expedition in an uncharted territory awaits eager explorers with the debut of the park’s newest attraction, Calico River Rapids. Opening on Friday, May 17th, the new white water raft ride takes explorers on a search for a new land where indigenous wildlife, treacherous roaring rapids, dynamic water effects plus a variety of wild surprises will be encountered along the way. The attraction comes to life with new animatronics and special effects designed and manufactured by Garner Holt Productions, Inc.
The circular raft ride, which seats six passengers, will traverse through unexpected twists and turns, rushing waters and rapid currents as it navigates the unexplored river path.
Also in summer 2019, the fan favorite Old West adventure will continue with the return of Ghost Town Alive!, as a new storyline set in the town of Calico is unraveled for guests to discover starting May 25 – August 18 and weekends from August 24 through Labor Day, September 2. During Ghost Town Alive! guests may return to the streets of Calico and experience an authentic western adventure by becoming a star in the day’s evolving storyline, as they unlock adventures through interactions with the townsfolk or by joining in on the town’s activities. And as night falls, even more, summer fun will continue throughout the park with new entertainment offerings.
Mother’s Day is just around the corner, and to celebrate, Catal Restaurant in Downtown Disney is preparing an elegant Mother’s Day brunch that is promised to be absolutely spectacular. From 8AM to 3PM, Catal will be offering $15 bottomless mimosas along with a dedicated menu of delicious gourmet options that are sure to make your mother feel special.
Bottomless Mimosas, what a perfect way to celebrate Mother’s Day!
Starters include spring-inspired dishes like Prosciutto Melon Salad with balsamic olive oil, chives, and passion fruit sorbet. You can also choose the Steelhead Salmon Toast with avocado, coconut vinaigrette, and Togarashi on multigrain bread. Entrees will range from a classic favorite, Chicken and Waffles with house-made vanilla waffle crispy chicken, bourbon glazed bacon, citrus chive butter, and maple in addition to Crab Cake Benedict that features poached eggs, asparagus, hollandaise, and chive batons.
Try the Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake (berries chocolate tuile) for the ultimate sweet treat.
The meal will end with a sweet surprise of dessert options that include Lavender Creme Brulee or a decadent slive of Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake. The brunch will be priced at $50 per adult and $14 per child. A full menu can be viewed by clicking here.
To make your reservation, make sure to visit Catal’s official site or call 714-774-4442. Happy Mother’s Day!
The fourth is with us as the popular Star Wars themed overlay, Hyperspace Mountain, prepares to blast off once again at the Disneyland Resort for Star Wars Day. The Disney Parks Blog broke the news this Tuesday, revealing that Hyperspace Mountain will once again return for a limited time in celebration of May the 4th.
It has also been announced that Captain Phasma will be marching through Tomorrowland once again with March of the First Order. For those who may have missed their last encounter with Phasma, May 4th may be their only hope.
Galactic Grill and Alien Pizza Planet will be serving up celebratory treats, including the Dark Side Chicken Sandwich and the Outer Rim Pasta. A special theme photo op has also been revealed in Starcade.
Whether its your first time, or your 100th time jumping to lightspeed at Hyperspace Mountain, make sure to stop by the Disneyland Resort on May 4th to celebrate Star Wars Day. May the 4th be with you, always!
For filmgoers, it’s probably hard to remember a time that the Marvel Cinematic Universe didn’t exist, and yet the franchise hasn’t even hit its teen years. At the ripe young age of eleven years old, the franchise now spans twenty-two films and clocks in at nearly sixty hours of storytelling. Every film, every character, and every plot point was all merely building blocks for last year’s Avengers: Infinity War, and this year’s grandiose finale, Avengers: Endgame. For fans who have hung with the franchise, this conclusion is the ultimate love letter to the films that precede it, but more importantly, it’s a love to the fans who have been there since the very beginning. This is a film made for the audience who embraced Marvel’s massive experiment back as far as 2008, and it works in absolutely grand fashion.
It’s hard to imagine anyone jumping into this franchise at this finale and deciding now is a great time to jump in, and honestly, why would you want to? Picking up directly after the events of Avengers: Infinity War, Avengers: Endgame finds what’s left of the Avengers broken, and nearly beyond repair after Thanos snapped his fingers and made fifty percent of the population disappear throughout the cosmos. Shaken to their core, but determined to find a way to reverse the snap, the remaining team members must risk everything they have to take on Thanos one last time, to get back everything they lost. As simple as that all sounds, that couldn’t be further from the case, as this is easily the most complex film that the Russo Bros, as well as Marvel Studios, have put in theaters. It’s an ambitious tale that asks the audience to ride with every twist and turn and to get behind every move that’s made, which at times may not always be easy.
This film has to work as a conclusion to twenty-one films, and so many characters, while also freshly opening up the universe to a brave new world. It’s a balancing act that many wouldn’t be able to handle, but thankfully, Joe and Anthony Russo were clearly up to the task. Since their debut in the MCU with Captain America: The Winter Soldier – – which by many is still considered one of, if not the best film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe – – the Russo Bros. have shown time again that they not only love these characters, but they understand them fully, as well as the world around them. For a film that needs to be a full-blown spectacle on top of being a full-fledged emotional rollercoaster, it’s clear why they were chosen. No one has singlehandedly used all these characters, as well as they, have in one place, and it only makes sense for the team that tore apart the Avengers to piece them back together again over these two films.
In a lot of ways, Avengers: Endgame clearly pulls from the Star Trek: The Next Generation series finale, All Good Things…, which was pointed at a lot during the film’s production. But for other science fiction geeks, the film also seems to pull a bit from Doctor Who: The End of Time, which was David Tennant’s emotionally charged two-part finale as the Doctor, as well as Russell T. Davies final film as writer and producer of the series. All Good Things… is generally considered one of the all-time great series finales, and one that is a very character driven and emotionally breathtaking for fans of the series. The Russo Bros. definitely seemed to use that as a launchpad for what they’d do, but much like The End of Time, which wasn’t so much a finale as it was one big love letter to the fans of this iteration of the franchise to this point. It was also paving the way for new beginnings. For many, it’s almost Fan Service: The TV Movie, but at the same time, Davies and Tennant had earned that clout to do just that at their on the BBC. Avengers: Endgame feels like that in many ways, and yet, it never feels weighed down by it. In fact, every bit of fan service throughout the film feels like an earned beat from years of storytelling that the MCU has done up until this point. More importantly, however, while wrapping up the current state of the Marvel Universe, they’ve also gifted audiences a fresh new road that the series will be able to launch from moving forward.
All that above means that, most importantly, Avengers: Endgame treats all the characters you’ve come to know and love with respect and dignity. However, one thing many audiences might be a bit surprised with is how this feels like one last trip with the original Avengers team, and they aren’t wrong. Robert Downey, Jr.’s Tony Stark and Chris Evans’ Steve Rogers are front and center, and joined by Hemsworth, Johansson, Ruffalo, and Renner, for a film that serves up a very loving swan song to the team as we were first introduced to them. They’re all given so much time to really shine throughout the film, but more importantly, they are given the time to really reflect on their time as these characters. This movie is chockfull of wonderful moments for every one of the heroes we’ve come to love and done so in a way that really lets the audience feel the weight of every decision they’re making, or in true Marvel Studios fashion, feel every laugh they share over a joke. There’s a reason these films continue to be so popular, and it all comes down to the brilliant casting across the board, starting with Robert Downey, Jr. all the way back in 2007. They’ve embodied the characters for so long now, it’s hard to imagine anyone else in the roles, and Marvel knows that as well, so they want to make sure this last go around truly feels like the characters you know have earned their place in our hearts.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a superhero film without the action, and when Avengers: Endgame goes for the action, it goes for absolute broke. Honestly, this film not only offers some of the best action in any comic book film to date, it honestly may be one of the most ambitious and enthralling blockbusters ever made. The scope of the film is truly remarkable, and it never really wastes a moment being anything other than a fast-paced epic leading to the final showdown. Every beat is well placed, and every moment seems like the most important moment yet, which is incredibly impressive considering the film has a whopping 3 hour and 2 minutes run time. Yet the film’s breakneck pace makes it feel closer to an hour and a half, which is a massive accomplishment for all involved. If you have a small bladder, it might be a good idea to not drink anything leading up to or during the film, because honestly, there’s not a good moment to get up. This movie locks you in and doesn’t let go, and once you’re locked in, embrace every minute of it. You’ll be glad you did, and the payoff is huge.
Avengers: Endgame isn’t just a perfect blockbuster film, this a truly momentous achievement in filmmaking. The Russo Bros. have delivered a film that is both absolutely grand and epic, yet small and intimate, while also leaving you on the edge of your seat going two hundred miles an hour. Marvel Studios saved the best film for last in this sprawling Marvel Cinematic Universe, and as far as finales go, it’s amazing to have one that truly brings the series home in such an incredibly satisfying way. To think of all the ways that this movie could have gone wrong, and yet it only goes completely right, that’s a success. Fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe have been gifted a truly breathtaking film that is so emotionally riveting and satisfying, it’s hard to believe it can even exist. Even for the lesser entries in the MCU to this point, this whole experiment was worth just for us to get to this moment. It’s hard to imagine fans will disagree. This is as good as summer blockbusters can get, and you won’t be disappointed.
Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge will open May 31, 2019, at Disneyland Park in Anaheim, California, and August 29, 2019, at Disney's Hollywood Studios in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. At 14 acres each, Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge will be Disney's largest single-themed land expansions ever, transporting guests to live their own Star Wars adventures in Black Spire Outpost, a village on the remote planet of Batuu, full of unique sights, sounds, smells and tastes. Guests can become part of the story as they sample galactic food and beverages, explore an intriguing collection of merchant shops and take the controls of the most famous ship in the galaxy aboard Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. (Disney Parks)
The moment we’ve all been waiting for has finally arrived, as Disney Parks and Resorts has just revealed guests will be able to book reservations for Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge starting on May 2nd.
The details will be made available via the Disney Parks Blog and Disneyland’s official site on May 2nd at 8AM PST. In order to book a reservation, all guests must have a Disney Account setup. Make sure to create yours if you haven’t already by clicking here!
Registration will begin promptly at 10AM PST. Reservations are specifically for Disneyland Resort guests who plan to visit the land between May 31st and June 23rd, 2019. After that time, it is planned for the new themed land to open to the public, but details are always subject to change.
The reservations will be no cost, but are subject to availability. There will be a high demand, so a reservation will be a highly prized item. For those not wanting to gamble on their chances, guaranteed reservations will be made available for any Disneyland Resort hotel guests between May 31st and June 23rd. Click here to book your stay or call (714) 520-5060. Please note, all guests staying on property will receive one reservation per registered guest for a designated time. Theme park admission is not included.
You can learn all about the exciting things coming to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge by clicking here. May the Force be with You!
Gotta Dance! The silver screen classic, Singin’ in the Rain, has made its way to the stage and is taking the La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts by storm in a performance that is nothing short than spectacular. Directed by Spencer Liff, best known for his work on the past 9 seasons of Fox Network’s hit show, “So You Think You Can Dance?”, Singin’ in the Rain is a must see, taking you on a musical journey that not only takes the best of the original but finds a way to throw in some modern twists that will keep you coming back for an encore.
Michael Starr as Don Lockwood, Kimberly Immanuel as Kathy Selden, and Brandon Burks as Cosmo Brown.
The show features a few “lucky stars”, including the charming Michael Starr as Don Lockwood. Taking on the famous Gene Kelly role is a challenge in itself, with very big tap shoes to fill. Yet, Starr doesn’t let it phase him, delivering a performance that doesn’t miss a beat. Together with Brandon Burks as the quirky and comical Cosmo Brown, Starr knocks em’ dead with laughter and genuine swagger.
Nevertheless, the true shining star of the production is Kimberly Immanuel. Taking on the iconic Debbie Reynolds’ role, Kathy Selden, Immanuel takes the show to new heights with a shine that will melt your heart and bring a smile to your face long after the show curtain has fallen. She has really made this role her own, bringing the audience to the edge of their seats and finally on their feet at the grand finale. From start to finish, you couldn’t ask for a better Kathy, and there really is no comparison that could do her performance justice.
Kimberly Immanuel (Far Left) as Kathy Selden is “icing on the cake!’
She isn’t alone in praise, as the entire cast brings a fresh take on the classic, including Sara King as Lina Lamont. King nails each high pitch squeal and squawk with ease, stealing the show at one point with her own surprise musical number. It’s truly something remarkable, with no face, voice, or dance move left behind in the rain.
Sara King as the actress and drama queen, Lina Lamont.
Speaking of rain, the creative team at La Mirada Theatre has really outdone themselves, bringing a fully immersive experience to the audience with real rain. Prepare your eyes for a visual spectacle, as you embrace the full power of this venue’s technical genius. La Mirada Theatre continues to dazzle and impress, pulling out all the stops and making their mark on the Southern California theatre scene. Look out Segerstrom and Pantages, La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts is coming for you!
Singin’ in the Rain will run through Sunday, May 12th, 2019. Performances are Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7:30PM, Fridays at 8:00PM, Saturdays at 2:00PM and 8:00PM and Sundays at 2:00PM. Tickets range from $20 to $94 and can be purchased here.
Singin’ in the Rain is a partnering production between La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts and McCoy Rigby Entertainment!
When Iron Man first took flight in theaters in May of 2008, few could imagine that the film would set off a sprawling twenty-two film series that would go from the streets of New York City, to the kingdom of Wakanda, and to the great cosmos of space. But it all started with Jon Favreau and Robert Downey, Jr., as well as a cameo by Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury, that would set into motion what has become the most successful franchise of all time. It’s been a spectacular journey for both those behind the scenes and those in front of the cameras, and it goes without saying that the twenty-second film, Avengers: Endgame, which acts as a finale of the series up to this point, is a rather bittersweet moment for all those involved. For eleven years, Downey, Jr., Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Hemsworth, and Jeremy Renner – – just to name a small few of the many actors that the Marvel Cinematic Universe has had to offer! – – have given audiences across the globe hope, laughs, and tender emotional moments that have continued to pull audiences back every time. But in the process, the group has become a family both on screen and off, so to say farewell to it all – – at least in some capacity – – marks the end of a professional career moment that many don’t often get.
On April 7th, 2019, Marvel Studios brought a group of press from around the world to witness what is potentially the last time this group of people would be together for a press conference as the final push of the Avengers: Endgame press tour begins. Moderating the panel would be none other than the man who started this whole journey, Jon Favreau – – taken a break from what I’m sure is a rather intensive post-production process on his upcoming remake of The Lion King – – to sit down with the stars of the upcoming film. Well, at least the stars that didn’t turn to dust that is. Favreau brought his usual dry wit and fun to the proceedings, as he walked out on stage, and reminding the journalists and pundits in the house that he’d been with the Marvel Cinematic Universe since it was, and I quote, a screaming toddler. It only makes sense to have the man who started this whole journey to usher it off into the sunset in its current iteration.
Next, to Favreau, current with the Avengers logo sat, waiting to reveal what was behind it. Last year, a similar current set up would drop, revealing the entirety of the Avengers: Infinity War cast in grand fashion. Not to be outdone by themselves, Marvel Studios decided to do the same thing this year, as the current feel, it was a massive set of seats…with about half of them empty, and our remaining Avengers: Endgame cast members who weren’t turned to dust, filling the seats in various spots across the stage. It was a very tongue and cheek reveal that would set the tone for much of the rest of the press conference, one full of laughter, as well as a bit of emotion as many of the actors are saying goodbye to these characters – – at least seemingly – – one last time. Super producer Kevin Feige, as well as the directing duo of the Russo Brothers, who are now directing their fourth film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, was also on hand to field questions.
Much like Avengers: Infinity War, Marvel Studios, Kevin Feige, and the Russo Bros. are keeping much of the film’s plot and secrets close to the vest. So while the group couldn’t talk much about the film specifically, they were able to talk about it in broad strokes, as well as their overall impressions of the MCU to this point. Here are some of the biggest takeaways from the event:
When asked if in the beginning, Robert Downey, Jr. could envision what the series would become, and the full story arc that Tony Stark would face, Downey, Jr. said it was almost like being of two minds: the sky is the limit, and the sky is falling. He says he remembered talking up on set just where this could go, but also just hoping that they were making a good film with the first Iron Man on a day to day basis that you couldn’t really dwell on what was to come.
Favreau then joked and asked if Downey, Jr. would rather the fans called the film Avengers: Endgame, Avengers 4, or would it be best if they referred to it as Iron Man 22, which brought a lot of laughs.
Downey, Jr. then said that he feels like a many of the now sprawling MCU, as it’s continued to grow and the cast gets closer and closer every day to each other. He called it the coolest relay race in the entertainment space right now.
Kevin Feige was asked when he knew this whole thing was going to be big, and in a very humble way, said he always saw big as relative. However, he then pointed back to how much fun they were having making the first Iron Man, and then as the dailies were coming in, he thought they really were making something special up until that point.
Feige also said that, at the time they were making Iron Man, the bar wasn’t as high as it has become now, from what audiences were expecting from their superhero films. He was just hoping they could compete with some of the other Marvel films that had come out prior to it.
He said the wind behind their backs really started to swell at Comic-Con in 2007 when they showed the first trailer for the film, and then the reveal of the Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury really opened up their world at what it could become. Those were two of the watershed moments for what the series would grow to.
When asked what makes Avengers: Endgame special in the end is the actors in the film and the journey to the end. We haven’t really seen a definitive ending to a superhero saga up until this point, especially one on this scale, so by aiming to make a grand finale, it sets it apart from everything else. To Kevin, that’s what really makes the film special.
Favreau then turned to the Russo Bros. and thanked them for the care that they’ve given this universe since they became involved. He said that all the directors, from himself, to others like Joss and Taika, they all feel very grateful that these two came in and saw a way to help expand the universe and grow it, but also bring it home for this finale.
When asked about how the ending of Infinity War really ripples through Endgame, Anthony Russo said that he and Joe love the storytelling technique of writing yourself into what seems like an impossible corner to overcome. The idea of how Thanos’ snap affects each of the heroes, and how they deal with loss, was very interesting for them to delve into.
Joe Russo followed up that he really wanted to finish this grand experiment as an epic conclusion, and really bring something special to the table for fans who have been with it since the beginning. He says that there’s something special about how they take this movie around the world with them and how so many people have been affected by the films in different ways, and grown with them. They just want people to feel satisfied when they leave.
When Jeremy Renner was asked how he was feeling joining the Avengers again, Renner joked he felt rested since audiences hadn’t seen Hawkeye in the films since Captain America: Civil War.
When asked what Danai Gurira likes the most about Okoye, she said the first thing is being around all her costars, but it’s the fact that Okoye is so unapologetic and a traditionalist in how she wants to protect her nation, which she said she connected to on a personal level.
Chris Hemsworth said when he first got the role of Thor, he had a lot of questions that kept looming in his head, like the idea of if the movie would even make it past DVD, to whether or not he’d get recast in the role. He was nervous, but always excited, to be a part of this universe after he saw Thor when hew as 18.
But what made playing Thor so special was all the people that he got to work with throughout this whole experience. Be it from Kenneth Branagh and Taika to the different cast members that he got to work beside, it just made the whole experience one that was incredible and unique for him. He called it all a very remarkable journey.
Chris Evans was asked what it’s meant to play Captain America, and what does he think about his journey in this film. Under very watchful eyes from the Russo Bros., Evans started to say that he loved the completion of his arc, only to start putting his foot in his mouth as the Russo Bros. gave him a buzzer sound that it was too much. The whole cast started to laugh, and Jon Favreau suggested that we just talk about Scott Pilgrim vs. the World instead, to which Evans and Brie Larson both agreed with. For the record, I think we should definitely talk about that movie more!
Then Robert Downey, Jr. called out Chris Evans for not going to Paul Rudd’s birthday party the night before, which Rudd joked, “it’s ok, I’m one of the new guys.” There’s definitely a feel of family with this group and they really act like they’re related at all times.
When asked about playing Black Widow in the MCU, and what it means to bring her to life, she didn’t know how audiences would react to her interpretation of the character. But she’s glad that the character has gotten to grow from a sexy secretary with a particular set of skills to do be what the character has become feels natural and she loves that the fans have encouraged her to grow.
When asked what made Karen Gillan so excited to come back to play the complex character of Nebula in Avengers: Endgame, Karen joked that it was coming back to play a character with serious daddy issues, since her dad is Thanos. She then said more seriously though that she’s glad that Nebula will get to face the source of her abuse, as it’s all been building since the first Guardians of the Galaxy, and the rift between the two has continually grown.
Paul Rudd then said he was terrified to say anything, as he didn’t want to give anything away. He then joked that he saw the trailers, so he can definitely say that he’s in the movie, but he can’t say more.
Rudd then said that the there’s a lot of the same sentiments being that there’s a lot of love for the sense of completion that the film is bringing, but more importantly, the relationships that it built. He compared being brought into the overall MCU fold to the idea of The Beatles asking you to join them for a while and jam with them, which is a pretty great descriptor.
Rudd then said it was hard to put into words just how great it was to work with all these actors and directors since he joined. He said this is clearly a one-off for him, and it’ll never happen again for him, or anyone else really, because things like this just don’t happen very often. He said he was honored to be a part of it.
Jon Favreau then chimed in off that and really dug into what makes Marvel Studios so special, and that’s what they really are just a huge group of collaborators who work together, letting every artist do their vision, but you can really seem the work that they all do together up on the screen.
Brie Larson said that she came at the most magical time possible, with her joining the MCU at its ten-year anniversary mark, and then to also get to be a part of Avengers: Endgame. Her introduction to everyone together was the ten-year photoshoot that the cast did together last year.
She also said that making the films kinda felt like when you were making movies as a kid in your garage, with everyone just having a great time, and everyone just felt childlike in a way doing it. She said the whole experience overall was surreal, but she loves being a part of this universe.
Don Cheadle made a very funny joke about taking over the role of Rhodes, saying that the character started lighter in tone and overall bigger than life than Cheadle is, but he then darkened and became more compact narratively speaking. It was a hilarious moment that had Downey, Jr. in stitches. But he really loves being a part of this time, and he’s happy that Rhodes has gotten to evolve over the films to this point.
There was then talk about who the best boggle player was, and that both Cheadle, Rudd, and Larson were the best players, but that Ruffalo may not have been so much. However, he did find the word asbestos, of all things, during their game of Boggle. But normally he can’t even find a cat.
Ruffalo then closed out the proceedings from the general questions and was asked if this truly does feel like a family. He joked that it can’t feel like a family because everyone gets a long way too well all the time. But then he said it really is the family you wished you had.
He then followed up that this press conference feels a little bit sad, and calling it bittersweet, because as actors you don’t usually get to work together with so many of the same people over and over again. It’s the biggest form of continuity for them as actors, as they get to watch people get married, have kids, and see them grow up. Not just seeing each other at every other awards party or something of that nature.
Honestly, it’s hard not to feel a bit of sadness like Ruffalo said because, in a lot of ways, this is an ending. That was reiterated many times throughout the press conference, things won’t be the same moving forward, and it’s time to say goodbye to a lot of our favorites moving forward. But not just us, as they’re saying goodbye as well. This has really been an incredible ride, and has covered many of the films in this series until this point, and having been 18 when Iron Man hit theaters, I’ve definitely a strong connection to this cast and the world they’ve built. But as all things come to an end, there are new beginnings as well. It’s safe to say that the Russo Bros and Kevin Feige have hoped to bring this story to an epic and proper conclusion, before springboarding the MCU into new, and uncharted, territory.
So, for now, there’s only one last thing to say…Avengers, assemble!
Spring is a great time to see waterfalls, wildflowers and meadows in Yosemite (photo by Greg Aragon)
Spring is a great time to visit Yosemite National Park. Melting snow is causing cascading waterfalls, lakes are serene, wildflowers are blooming and the air is crisp and clean. I recently escaped to Yosemite and had a front-row cabin to all of this natural majesty.
My getaway to Yosemite began when I checked into a cozy cabin at Evergreen Lodge (www.evergreenlodge.com), located near the park’s western entrance. A rustic hideaway, the lodge sits about six miles down a winding dirt road, lined with a canopy of pine, cedar and oak trees, flowing streams and spectacular open meadows.
The inn was built in 1921 to facilitate the building of the O’Shaunessey Dam in Hetch Hetchy Valley. Since it’s opening, the historic structure has been a post office, a restaurant, and general store, as well as an underground moonshine brewery and part-time brothel.
Today, the lodge offers a “classic Yosemite experience” with 88 wooden cabins, scattered throughout 20 acres of towering pines, each with a balcony to create a sense of privacy, yet within easy reach of the central plaza, tavern and recreation areas.
My deluxe cabin featured a king bed, a large sitting area with queen sofa bed and a private deck looking into the wondrous nature. The cabin also came with a cast iron gas fireplace, air conditioning, spacious bathroom with shower, wifi, Alexa devices for in-room entertainment and music, phone, historic artwork, Keurig coffee brewer, electric kettles, refrigerator, feather pillows, vaulted ceilings and more.
Beyond the cabins, Evergreen offers guests all sorts of surprise diversions for play or relaxation. There are hammocks, horseshoes, bocce, and zip lines, to name a few. Everything here is maintained to provide a sense of connection to nature, wilderness, and history, while still “affording the modern creature comforts and respecting the surrounding natural resources.”
The lodge also offers guided recreation programs to help guests experience Yosemite. Activities include fly fishing, rafting, snowshoeing, van tours of the valley, and bike rides to hidden waterfalls and pools. Upon arriving at Evergreen, visitors receive a program of activities available for the week of their stay. A stop by the Recreation Desk can help anyone find something fun to do.
The highlight of my resort stay was taking the Hetch-Hetchy Wapama Falls Naturalist Hike, which I booked at the Recreation Desk. A lesser-traveled jewel at Yosemite, Hetch-Hetchy is a smaller version of Yosemite Valley, replete with domes, waterfalls, forests, lakes and rivers and incredible vistas.
On this leisurely 5-mile roundtrip, me and a few other resort guests hiked above the shores of this tranquil reservoir to the 1,200-ft Wapama Falls. To get there we walked through lush meadows, over trails of dirt and granite and passed brilliant wildflowers, small creeks, and meadows. During the hike, our guide shared stories about the history of Yosemite and told us about the area’s geology, trees, and wildlife. The Hetch-Hetchy Wapama Falls Naturalist Hike runs January – June and costs $125 for adults and $65 for kids 8 to 12.
After the hike, I had a great dinner back at the Evergreen Lodge’s Tavern restaurant. Covered in rich wood, the tavern has been a local gathering spot for over 90 years and is a focal point of the property. My meal began with a beet salad with arugula, pomegranate seeds, spiced walnuts, orange supremes, whipped goat cheese, and guava balsamic reduction. For the main course, I devoured braised lamb shank with butternut squash, potato & goat cheese mash, sautéed kale, pearl onions, and red wine jus. I washed it all down with a cold beer.
The next morning I drove into the 1,169-sq.-mile Yosemite National Park for a tour of the valley floor ($35 entry fee per car). Here I caught a shuttle, which makes 21 stops to all major park highlights. Beginning at the Visitors Center, I learned about the history of Yosemite, the different animals found here, and about John Muir, who many consider the father of National Parks.
A highlight in the valley was a stop near El Capitan, which at 3,593-ft.-tall, is the largest single monolith of granite in the world; and hike to the thunderous base of Yosemite Falls. Another geological wonder, this landmark drops water from a height of 2,425, making it the tallest waterfall in North America.
The world of Mickey and Minnie Mouse is coming to Disneyland in a brand new way, as Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway is set to debut in Mickey’s Toontown in 2022. Mickey will put you right in the middle of the adventure, transporting guests right in the middle of a Mickey Mouse animated short.
The details were teased this morning via Instagram, where Mickey, Minnie, and the Disney Parks Blog were preparing for the big reveal.
The ride is said to be unpredictable, full of hi jinks, surprises, and goofy moments. The attraction will feature an original story and its own theme song. Mickey fans will get their first chance to experience the attraction at the Walt Disney World Resort starting in spring of 2020, with the attraction joining Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin and Gadget’s Go Coaster in Disneyland in 2022.
The attraction is one of many new elements coming to the Disneyland Resort, including Disney California Adventure’s Mickey’s PhilharMagic, opening this month and Disneyland’s highly anticipated Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
Disney California Adventure is also taking the spotlight with the announcement that the park will take over for this year’s Halloween Party. You can read all about it by clicking here. Make sure to stay tuned as we stay up to date on all the details!
This Father's Day, soar to new heights of gift-giving with an incredible collection of DreamWorks How to Train Your Dragon treasures from BoxLunch! On...
