The Disneyland Resort is now smoke free, thanks to a sweeping policy change that has eliminated designated smoking areas resort wide. The new policies go into affect on May 1st, leading up to the big debut of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
According to the Disney Parks Moms Panel, smoking areas will be removed from all Disney theme parks in the US, including the Walt Disney World Resort, Disney water parks, as well as the Downtown Disney District. ESPN Wide World of Sports will also be subject to the new rules. Those who wish to smoke while visiting the park will still have smoking access outside the entrances to the parks and areas subject to the new rules. In addition, smoking areas will be available at Disney Resort hotels.
Along with the new smoking rules, the resort will feature new policies for both strollers and loose ice. Strollers must now be no later than 31″ (79cm) wide and 52″ (132cm) long. Wagons will no longer be permitted. Guests will not be able to bring in loose ice, which includes dry ice. Outside food and drink are still permitted within the resort, but coolers must now use reusable ice packs and other methods of refrigeration.
You can review the resort policies in full by clicking here. Stay tuned for all the latest updates!
The details around the Disneyland Resort’s new parking structure have finally been revealed, ringing in a new chapter in the resort’s “Project Stardust” with the debut of Pixar Pals Parking Structure. The new structure will feature characters from Coco, Monster’s Inc., as well as Inside Out.
According to the Disney Parks Blog, Pixar Pals Parking Structure will have more than 5,000 parking spaces and is slated to open by end of July. Though a definite date has not yet been set, it’s possible the structure will open sooner. It will also feature a brand new electronic parking system. Though this won’t be the only new addition to the resort’s parking setup.
In sync with the new structure, Toy Story lot will be expanded, bringing in an additional 2,000 spaces and additional entry points. Though, one thing to note is that guests will have to complete security screenings at the parking lot rather than at the main entrance plaza. The hope for the resort is to help curtail peak crowds at the entrance.
The work is being completed in preparation for Disneyland’s soon to open expansion, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Other updates were revealed, which you can read about by clicking here.
One of Walt Disney’s World’s best is making its West Coast debut as the Disney Parks Blog has just revealed “Mickey’s PhillharMagic is coming to the Disneyland Resort this April. The show will make its home in Disney California Adventure Park.
The concert begins at Sunset Showcase Theatre, taking over from the late Muppet Vision 3D show in Hollywoodland. Mickey and Donald will lead the way, taking you on a wild and topsy turvy musical adventure like no other. The show features musical sequences that take you right back into the peak of the Disney Renaissance and will showcase elements from Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, and The Little Mermaid.
The surprise news comes just in time for the tail end of Mickey and Minnie’s “Get Your Ears On” celebration. “Mickey’s PhillharMagic” is destined to become a Disneyland classic. Make sure to catch the musical extravaganza this spring!
The world was forever shaken by the aftermath of last year’s heart-wrenching end to Avengers: Infinity War. Now that we are one month away from the epic rematch, the cast and crew of Avengers: Endgame come together in a telling featurette that discusses what’s to come and how Earth’s Mightiest Heroes must recoup from the one thing they never thought possible: losing.
Marvel Studios has also released a series of new poster art, following the heroes left standing as well as those who’ve fallen in the battle against Thanos. Check out the amazing art below and get ready to suit up.
Come one, come all, families big and small to Disney’s world famous El Capitan Theatre this spring to see the debut of Walt Disney Studios’ latest film, Dumbo! Guests will have the chance to experience all the excitement and spectacle of the Big Top once they enter, with plenty of surprises in store.
The limited time run will be from March 28th to April 21st, featuring a wide array of larger than life experiences that include live circus performers, costumes and props from the film, poster art, and thrilling photo opportunities. Don’t miss your chance to meet Dumbo, show your unbelievable strength, and much more!
“We are thrilled to welcome our El Capitan Guests under the Big Top with our special engagement of Disney’s Dumbo,” said Ed Collins, General Manager of The El Capitan Theatre. “We have transformed our theatre into the world of Dumbo’s circus, complete with mesmerizing live performances of Circus Arts, and photo ops to create memories of a lifetime. It’s the kind of experience you just can’t get anywhere else other than The El Capitan Theatre.”
El Capitan Guests can even be among the first to see the movie on Thursday, March 28 at 7:00pm (Doors will open at 6:00PM). Tickets to The Special Opening Night are $30 and include a Reserved Seat, souvenir popcorn container with one refill, 20 oz Bottled Drink, and surprises!
After the show, make sure to take a look at a nice assortment of Dumbo merchandise, right next door in Disney’s Studio Store. From plushes, to books, to fashion, there’s plenty of fun items to make your heart soar.
Disney’s Dumbo daily showtimes: 10:00AM, 1:10PM, 4:20PM, 7:30PM & 10:40PM (10:40PM on Opening Weekend and Fridays and Saturdays following). Showtimes and dates are subject to change. Special group rates for the film of $10 for parties of 20 or more are available by calling 1-818-845-3110. Tickets also be purchased by clicking here.
Universal Studios Hollywood’s popular California Neighbor Pass returns, inviting guests to enjoy over 175 select days of fun for $149.
The California Neighbor Pass is a must-have for anyone looking to enjoy limitless entertainment exclusive to Universal Studios Hollywood, including the all-new “Dark Arts at Hogwarts™ Castle” at “The Wizarding World of Harry PotterTM” this April and the highly-anticipated “Jurassic World—The Ride” opening this summer, as well as the theme park’s many exciting thrill rides and attractions.
With lots of theme park neighborhoods to explore, the California Neighbor Pass allows guests to easily travel from Springfield and “The Simpsons Ride” to Gru’s house at the “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” ride, from Hogsmeade village within “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” to the Universal backlot sets aboard the world-famous Studio Tour.
The California Neighbor Pass enables guests to choose any day for their first visit and return to enjoy Universal Studios Hollywood for more than 175 days over nine months, including select weekends, for $149 when purchased online. Special discounts on general admission tickets for friends and family to the theme park along with the popular “Halloween Horror Nights” and special events are included in this season pass program. Additionally, pass members can enjoy sweepstakes opportunities and discounts at participating CityWalk locations.
More information about the California Neighbor Pass and other Annual Pass options, are available at www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com/tickets. Blackout dates and restrictions apply.
Disney’s newest live-action remake takes on the eighth wonder of the world, “DUMBO”, hitting theaters this Friday! This reimagination of Walt Disney’s classic film expands on the story to include new characters, plot points, and a few new villains. With a film as significant in the Walt Disney Company’s history as the 1941 classic, how does the 2019 remake compare? In this review, I discuss the overall plot (how it derives from the original story), character (actor performances), and Visual Effects of Disney’s newest film.
Disclaimer: This is not an opinion-free review. While this review does not contain spoilers for the overall film, I allude to particular scenes and plot points in my overall evaluation of the film. Continue at your own risk.
Plot
The movie begins with a circus troop in Sarasota, FL in the Spring of 1919. The train, Casey Jr., travels across the United States south and stops for two weeks at Joplin, MO. Circus owner Max Medici (played by Danny DeVito) enlists former Stallion Star Holt Farrier (played by Colin Farrell) after his return from fighting in The Great War. Holt and his two children Milly (played by Nico Parker) and Joe (played by Finley Hobbins) are enlisted to care for a pregnant Asian elephant, Jumbo. Two days after Holt’s return to the Medici Bros. Circus troop, a newborn elephant joins whose oversized ears make him a peculiar specimen. Jumbo Jr. becomes the laughingstock in an already struggling circus in a performance accident that gives him the titular name of Dumbo.
Courtesy of Walt Disney Studios
After the discovery that Dumbo can fly, the Emperor of Enchantment V.A. Vandevere (Michael Keaton) recruits the special pachyderm for his newest expansion to his larger-than-life entertainment venture, Dreamland. Dumbo soars to new heights alongside a charming and spectacular aerial artist, Colette Marchant (played by Eva Green), until Holt and the Farrier children learn that beneath its shiny mystical facade, Dreamland is full of dark secrets.
Director Tim Burton (“Alice in Wonderland”; “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”), along with the assistance of screenplay writer Ehren Kruger (“Tron: Legacy”) expand on the Walt Disney classic, but fail to provide the same level of magic that the original does. Burton is known for dark fantasies, but it feels restrained in “DUMBO” as if he was not allowed to provide the same level of grit and dark as in classics such as “Edward Scissorhands” and “Beetlejuice”.
Characters
With a stellar cast including Colin Farrell, Michael Keaton, Eva Green, and Alan Arkin, the standout performance by far of this film is Danny DeVito’s circus ringmaster, Maximilian Medici. From the first moments of the film to the very end, DeVito provides whimsy and childlike wonder to the struggling circus owner. DeVito is the comic relief and serves as a reminder to moviegoers that this is a new adaptation of the story.
Courtesy of Walt Disney Studios
The rest of the cast (with the exception of certain scenes by Eva Green and Colin Farrell) fail to convince the audience of the high stakes and the dangers of the film. One of the most disappointing performances comes from Academy award-winning actor, Michael Keaton. Keaton, who plays V.A. Vandervere, provides a lackluster performance of what could have been a sinister character. Instead, Keaton portrays a cookie-cutter antagonist that fails to convince the audience that Dumbo and the rest of the Medici Bros. Circus troop are in danger. This is Keaton’s third franchise with Tim Burton, after such memorable performances such as Beetlejuice and Batman. Keaton defined nerd culture in 1988 and also showed how sinister he could be as an antagonist in his portrayal of The Vulture in “Spider-Man: Homecoming” in 2017, which is why it is disappointing that the performance of V.A. Vandervere feels slipshod.
The children actors, to no fault of their own, struggle to portray to the audience the importance of saving baby Dumbo. Milly (played by Nico Parker) is the daughter of cowboy performer, Holt Farrier, but she doesn’t want to be a circus performer. Instead, Milly wants to dedicate her life to science. It’s through this passion of science that she discovers Dumbo’s ability to fly. When Dumbo loses his mother, Milly checks on the baby elephant and tells him about how she misses her mother. This scene, in particular, had the possibility to be a tearjerker but Parker’s monotonous voice and expressionless face conveys to the audience what she is saying to Dumbo is disingenuous. Joe (played by Finley Hobbins) has even less of a speaking role. It took me until the halfway point of the film to know that his name is Joe. The two roles are an adaptation of Timothy the Mouse’s role in Walt Disney’s classic version. Milly and Joe are supposed to be the voice for the voiceless, which is a tall order to fill for any actor (especially for two young actors). Unfortunately, Parker’s lack of visible concern along with Hobbins’ lack of presence somewhat diminishes Dumbo’s stardom.
Visual Effects
As the name suggests, Dumbo is one of the prominent characters (but not the main character) that is brought to life with the extensive use of CGI in the film. For the most part, the eighth wonder of the world is visually stunning. When we first meet Dumbo from when he is hiding in a pile of hay, even when he is dressed as a clown with white face paint, moviegoers fall in love with the adorable elephant blue eyes. The quality of the visual effects drops whenever a character rides on Dumbo’s back. This is apparent when Eva Green’s Collette Marchant practices with Dumbo for their performance debut; when Green is “sitting” on Dumbo it looks believable, but in a far-away shot the rendering of the CGI elephant and the acrobat looks unfinished.
Conclusion
Tim Burton’s version of the Walt Disney 1941 classic reimagines the story so Dumbo is not the main character of his story. Rather, Dumbo serves as a supporting character for the Farrier Family story. Timothy the Mouse and other classic characters from the original film are not as prominent in this film, distancing itself from the original. While this film was not my cup of tea, I’m a Disney snob who loves the 1941 classic version. However, this film is a great way to bring the classic story for a modern audience. If you have little siblings or younger moviegoers in your party, they will enjoy this film.
Make sure to check out “DUMBO” in theaters this Friday, March 29th.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge debut is just around the corner, and to celebrate the big grand opening, some lucky Disneyland Cast Members were surprised with the news that they would be part of the land’s opening team.
As you can see from Star Wars’ official Instagram post below, the reactions are heartwarming, filled with tears, hugs, and excitement. Galaxy’s Edge, which opens in May at the Disneyland Resort, is the biggest expansion in Disneyland history, and has already created record breaking interest, as all three Disneyland Resort hotels are sold out leading into the park’s opening day.
Guests will be able to join the adventure through reservation only for the first month, with more details coming soon on how to secure one of those hard to get spots. Make sure to stay tuned for more details!
This will be a day long remembered, as Star Wars Celebration Chicago has finally shared the full panel and event schedule, which features 5 days of nonstop Star Wars for fans from across the globe and the galaxy.
The details, which were shared by Star Wars’ official site, highlight some of the previously teased panels, as well as a full list of special surprises that include exclusive round table discussions, behind the scenes looks, in depth archive discussions, contests, and so much more.
The schedule also provided a closer look at the convention’s show and floor queue setup, giving fans a better idea on how this year’s event will change from previous Celebrations. The Celebration Stage, held at the Wintrust Arena, will be separate from the rest of the convention space, in addition to the use of the event’s new LIGHTSPEED virtual reservation system and lottery. You can gather the full scoop on the entire convention details by clicking here.
Take a look at what’s coming below!
Celebration Stage Schedule- Wintrust Arena
Thursday, April 11
No Stage Programing
Friday, April 12
11:00AM – 12:00PM
Star Wars: Episode IX
Live on the Celebration Stage; streamed to the Galaxy and Twin Suns Stages
With the culmination of the Star Wars saga arriving before the end of the year, the Star Wars: Episode IX panel is one you will definitely not want to miss! With Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy and Star Wars: Episode IX director J.J. Abrams appearing onstage, you can count on plenty of surprises and special guests to keep your imagination buzzing for the rest of Celebration! Live on the Celebration Stage; streamed to the Galaxy and Twin Suns Stages.
1:30PM – 2:30PM
Vader Immortal: A Star Wars VR Series
Join ILMxLAB and Oculus for a sneak peek at the first Star Wars story series designed for virtual reality, Vader Immortal. Learn more about this immersive descent into Darth Vader’s fiery Mustafar fortress from the people behind its story, design, and technology.
4:00PM – 5:00PM
The Creatures, Droids & Aliens of Star Wars
Take a deep dive into the Pinewood Studios-based Star Wars creature shop, where Creative Supervisor Neal Scanlan and team designed and built every alien, beast and droid for this new era of Star Wars movies. Step-by-step, the process of crafting amazing creatures and droids will be explored, from design and sculpting to fabrication, animatronics, painting and puppeteering.
Saturday, April 13
11:00AM – 12:00PM
Bringing Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge to Life at Disney Parks
Discover new details and stories about Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge – the new, fully immersive lands coming to Disneyland Resort in summer 2019 and Walt Disney World Resort in fall 2019. Join team members from Walt Disney Imagineering and Lucasfilm as they share stories about what it takes to bring Star Wars to life and how visitors can live their very own Star Wars story. And, there might just be a few surprises, too!
1:30PM – 2:30PM
The Galaxy-Wide Premiere of Star Wars Jedi:Fallen Order
Join the head of Respawn Entertainment, Vince Zampella, and Game Director, Stig Asmussen, along with many special guests, to be the first to learn about this holiday’s highly anticipated action-adventure game, Star WarsJedi: Fallen Order. Hear how Respawn and Lucasfilm collaborated on this original Star Wars story, following a young Padawan’s journey in the Dark Times following Order 66. And, of course, we’ll have a few surprises in store.
4:00PM – 5:00PM
Sisters of the Force, A Celebration of Women and Star Wars
Star Wars is full of powerful women, from its characters to its actors, its creators and executives to its fans! It takes countless stories and people to keep our beloved Star Wars universe thriving, and this panel will celebrate the role women play in making it all happen! Join moderator Ashley Eckstein and guests, Vanessa Marshall, Catherine Taber, Amy Ratcliffe and many others (including some surprises) for an incredibly inspiring, empowering and fun discussion!
Sunday, April 14
11:00AM – 12:00PM
The Mandalorian
Live on the Celebration Stage; streamed to the Galaxy and Twin Suns Stages
Learn about the perilous world of The Mandalorian with executive producer and writer Jon Favreau and executive producer and director Dave Filoni. Live on the Celebration Stage and presented simultaneously at the Galaxy and Twin Suns Stages.
1:30PM – 2:30PM
In Conversation with Alan Tudyk
Alan Tudyk, who played the unforgettably surly and defiant Imperial-turned-Resistance droid hero K-2SO in Star Wars: Rogue One, joins the stage with host Warwick Davis to discuss his role in the fan-favorite stand-alone Star Wars film along with other memorable characters he’s portrayed throughout his career.
3:30PM – 4:30PM
Star Wars: The Clone Wars Sneak Peek
Live on the Celebration Stage; streamed to the Twin Suns Stage
Dave Filoni and special guests celebrate the return of Star Wars: The Clone Wars and share a sneak peek at what’s to come.
Monday, April 15
11:00AM – 12:00PM
Star Wars: The Phantom Menace 20th Anniversary Celebration
Live on the Celebration Stage; streamed to the Galaxy Stage
Every saga has a beginning. Join host Warwick Davis as we honor 20 years of Star Wars: The Phantom Menace! We’re turning the pages back with rare, behind-the-scenes content and special guests brought together to share their memories and insights into the film’s creation. Now this is celebrating!
1:30PM – 2:30PM
Short Stories with Warwick Davis
Buckle up and enjoy an unexpected and unpredictable retrospective into the prolific roles and career of the host of the Celebration Stage, and the record holder for the actor who has played the most Star Wars characters – Warwick Davis. Wicket, Wald, Weazel, Wollivan, Weeteef, Wodibin (are you detecting a pattern here?) and other Star Wars characters have all been masterfully played by Warwick, along with several characters from other popular movie franchises.
3:30PM – 4:30PM
Celebration Chicago Closing Ceremony
Live on the Celebration, Galaxy, and StarWars.com Stages
Gather with your friends and fellow Star Wars fans to relive the best moments of the weekend and bid farewell to the 20th anniversary of Star Wars Celebration. Featuring special guests, weekend highlights and much more, this is a send-off you won’t want to miss!
Star Wars Galaxy Stage- Skyline Ballroom E&D, Level 3 West Building
Thursday, April 11
No Stage Programing
Friday, April 12
11:00AM – 12:00PM
Star Wars: Episode IX
Live on the Celebration Stage; streamed to the Galaxy and Twin Suns Stages
With the culmination of the Star Wars saga arriving before the end of the year, the Star Wars: Episode IX panel is one you will definitely not want to miss! With Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy and Star Wars: Episode IX director J.J. Abrams appearing onstage, you can count on plenty of surprises and special guests to keep your imagination buzzing for the rest of Celebration! Live on the Celebration Stage; streamed to the Galaxy and Twin Suns Stages.
1:30-2:30pm
20 years of the LEGO Star Wars Story – A Retrospective and Forward Look
Join LEGO and Lucasfilm in celebrating the 20th anniversary of LEGO Star Wars through a retrospective look into the rich history of the franchise as well as a dive into the current outlook. LEGO Star Wars marks the first time that the LEGO Group licensed a property and turned someone else’s story and characters into a build and play opportunity. Over the past 20 years, the partnership has evolved from traditional building sets into so much more as LEGO Star Wars continues to inspire play at all ages. This panel will take a journey through LEGO Star Wars consumer products, content/animation and video game evolution from the beginning into present day and a glimpse into the future.
3:30pm-4:30pm
The Music of Star Wars: The Phantom Menace with David Collins
Come celebrate the music of Star Wars: Episode 1 – The Phantom Menace as host David Collins explores the musical connections between the story and characters, breaking down both new and classic themes.
5:30-6:30pm
ILM Presents: Making Solo
Rob Bredow, Academy Award nominee and VFX Supervisor for Solo: A Star Wars Story will share his personal stories and photos in this exclusive behind-the-scenes talk. Get a sneak peek into his new photo book covering the film. Bring your filmmaking questions and learn how the Falcon made the Kessel Run in less than twelve parsecs.
Saturday, April 13
10:45AM – 11:45PM
Droids and Animatronic Creatures of Star Wars
Exploring your favorite droids and creatures from The Force Awakens, Rogue One, The Last Jedi and Solo. Join Matt Denton, Josh Lee and Lee Towersey as they discuss the challenges faced bringing complex droid and animatronic creatures to life, including behind the scenes stories of their work in demanding environments both in the studio and on location around the world.
12:45PM – 1:45PM
Star Wars Rebels Remembered
Star Wars Rebels may have ended but the Ghost Crew is far from forgotten! Dave Filoni and special guests take a look back at the show that deepened our knowledge of the Force, broke our hearts and always gave us hope. Full disclosure – we are not announcing a new series in this panel.
3:30PM – 4:30PM
Star Wars Cosplay Competition
Both veteran and amateur cosplayers alike will join the most exciting Cosplay Competition in the galaxy at Star Wars Celebration Chicago! It is more than just a competition – it’s a fun-filled celebration of the very best Star Wars cosplayers that want to share their talent, skill, and determination with the universe.
5:30PM – 6:30PM
A Star Wars Let’s Play
Love classic Star Wars games like Super Star Wars, Star Wars: Bounty Hunter, or Star Wars Racer Revenge? Hosted by David Collins, join Star Wars special guests as they play their favorite Star Wars classics all while having a great time and answering audience questions along the way.
Sunday, April 14
11:00AM – 12:00PM
The Mandalorian
Live on the Celebration Stage; streamed to the Galaxy and Twin Suns Stages
Learn about the perilous world of The Mandalorian with executive producer and writer Jon Favreau and executive producer and director Dave Filoni. Live on the Celebration Stage and presented simultaneously at the Galaxy and Twin Suns Stages.
1:15PM – 2:15PM
Doug Chiang: The Evolution of Star Wars Design – Designing Episode I
Episode I Design Director – and Lucasfilm’s VP and Executive Creative Director for Star Wars – Doug Chiang is joining the 20th anniversary celebration of The Phantom Menace with an in-depth look at the film’s conceptual designs. Doug will showcase rare artwork with insights into his creative process and share memories of working alongside director George Lucas. Attendees will also have the chance to ask Doug their own questions.
3:15PM – 4:15PM
ILM Model Shop: Building a Galaxy
Get a behind-the-scenes peek at the magic created in the legendary ILM Model Shop, which was one of the first departments created at ILM in 1975. You’ll learn how model-making is still a vital part of the Star Wars movie-making process, with special highlights to celebrate the 20th anniversary of The Phantom Menace.
Monday, April 15
11:00AM – 12:00PM
Star Wars: The Phantom Menace 20th Anniversary Celebration
Live on the Celebration Stage; streamed to the Galaxy Stage
Every saga has a beginning. Join host Warwick Davis as we honor 20 years of Star Wars: The Phantom Menace! We’re turning the pages back with rare behind-the-scenes content and special guests brought together to share their memories and insight into the film’s creation. Now this is celebrating!
1:30PM – 2:50PM
Star Wars Resistance Season Two Sneak Peek
Join Star Wars Resistance Executive Producers Justin Ridge, Athena Portillo, Brandon Auman and special guests for a look back at the shocking season one finale and an exclusive preview of what’s to come!
3:30PM – 4:30PM
Celebration Chicago Closing Ceremony
Live on the Celebration and Galaxy Stages
Gather with your friends and fellow Star Wars fans to relive the best moments of the weekend and bid farewell to the 20th anniversary of Star Wars Celebration. Featuring special guests, weekend highlights and much more, this is a send-off you won’t want to miss!
Twin Suns Stage- W196ABC, Level 1 West Building
Thursday, April 13
No Programing
Friday, April 12
11:00AM – 12:00PM
Star Wars: Episode IX
Live on the Celebration Stage; streamed to the Galaxy and Twin Suns Stages
With the culmination of the Star Wars Saga arriving before the end of the year, the Star Wars: Episode IX panel is one you will definitely not want to miss! With Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy and Star Wars: Episode IX director J.J. Abrams appearing on stage, you can count on plenty of surprises and special guests to keep your imagination buzzing for the rest of Celebration! Live on the Celebration Stage; streamed to the Galaxy and Twin Suns Stages.
1:15 PM – 2:30 PM
Star Wars Collectibles Update with Lucasfilm’s Brian Merten
The things we collect and bring into our lives really do show our affinity for the story we love.
Come celebrate with us and find out what’s happening first hand with your favorite Star Wars collectibles. We’ll chat about Prop Replicas, statues and more, probably with a surprise or two along the way.
3:00PM – 4:00PM
Star Wars Hasbro
Join members of the Hasbro team from a galaxy far, far away as they discuss the popular Hasbro Star Wars product line. Attendees will get an in-depth look at Hasbro’s latest action figure offerings & more. No, this is not a trap!
4:45PM – 5:45PM
Lucasfilm Publishing Panel
Join some of the biggest and best Star Wars authors to discuss new and upcoming stories set in a galaxy far, far away. Plus, get exclusive sneak peeks and announcements into the future of Star Wars publishing. Featuring Jeffrey Brown, Zorida Cordova, Delilah Dawson, Claudia Gray, Justina Ireland, E.K. Johnston, Cavan Scott, Timothy Zahn, and more! Moderated by Lucasfilm’s Michael Siglain
6:30PM – 7:30PM
I’ll Take Droids for $500, Obi-Wan: An Intergalactic Game Show
We are inviting fans to test their Star Wars knowledge, competing head-to-head with their favorite Star Wars authors in categories like “Never tell me the odds”, “Going Solo”, “A Long Time Ago” and “Far, Far Away” and more, using audio clips from Star Wars audiobooks. Hosted by Marc Thompson. Prizes awarded!
Saturday, April 13
11:00AM – 12:00PM
Inside Fantasy Flight Games
Go behind the scenes with Fantasy Flight Games, creators of the world’s premier Star Wars board games, card games, collectible games, miniatures games, and roleplaying games! Here, you’ll get the chance to ask your own questions for Head of Studio Andrew Navaro, Visual Creative Director Brian Schomburg, Miniatures Game Manager John Shaffer, and Producer Molly Glover. You’ll also catch a glimpse of what FFG has planned next for X-Wing!
12:45PM – 1:45PM
Del Rey Behind the Scenes
Del Rey has been publishing Star Wars books since 1976. Find out what we have in the works for 2019 and beyond. Join authors Claudia Gray (Master & Apprentice; Bloodline), Timothy Zahn (The Thrawn Trilogy), Alexander Freed (Alphabet Squadron; Twilight Company), and Delilah S. Dawson (Black Spire; Phasma) as they discuss current projects and preview other books to come.
2:30PM – 3:30PM
Marvel Comics Presents: Star Wars
Join Marvel Comics writers Greg Pak (Star Wars: Age of Rebellion) and Ethan Sacks (Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge) and a host of other Mighty Marvel Guests in this can’t-miss panel! Greg Pak’s Age of Rebellion series spotlights the fan-favorites of the classic trilogy, while Sacks’ Galaxy’s Edge is the riveting comic series tie-in to the highly-anticipated theme park! Don’t miss your chance to get a behind-the-scenes look at the House of Ideas’ parsec of the Galaxy Far, Far Away – including a glimpse of what’s to come!
4:15PM – 5:15PM
Step Into Our Star Wars Stories: ILMxLAB
From your Jedi Trials on Tatooine, to a visit to Darth Vader’s mysterious Mustafar abode, and beyond, ILMxLAB is taking Star Wars fans on multiple journeys to a galaxy far, far away…. Join us as we explore those adventures with some of the people who brought them to life and give away a few items that bring the Force home!
5:45PM – 6:45PM
Star Wars: The Force of Funko
Come meet the crew responsible for bringing the greatest story in the galaxy to the world of POP!, Mystery Minis, Wacky Wobblers and more. Hear the stories behind their own deeply personal connections with “a galaxy far, far Away” and how they channel that passion into constantly growing, ever-evolving Star Wars expressions. From their life-long dreams to a literal dream come true, the story of Star Wars and Funko is one built from the hearts of true-blue fans.
Sunday, April 14
11:00AM – 12:00PM
The Mandalorian
Live on the Celebration Stage; streamed to the Galaxy and Twin Suns Stages
Learn about the perilous world of The Mandalorian with executive producer and writer Jon Favreau and executive producer and director Dave Filoni. Live on the Celebration Stage and presented simultaneously at the Galaxy and Twin Suns Stages.
1:00PM – 2:00PM
Behind the Scenes of the Cantina
Go behind the scenes like never before as cantina expert and FX artist Tom Spina (Regal Robot, Tom Spina Designs) and stage host Amy Ratcliffe once again dive into the most wretched hive of scum and villainy with rare behind the scenes images, video and stories from geniuses who helped create everyone’s favorite Tatooine hang out!
3:30PM – 4:30PM
Star Wars: The Clone Wars Sneak Peek
Live on the Celebration Stage; streamed to the Twin Suns Stage
Dave Filoni and special guests celebrate the return of Star Wars: The Clone Wars and share a sneak peek at what’s to come.
5:30PM – 6:30PM
Into the Archives
Author Paul Duncan takes you into the Lucasfilm archives to show you how he researched and assembled images and texts for his book The Star Wars Archives: Episodes IV-VI, published by TASCHEN. Illustrated with concept art, storyboards, photos, script and production documents from Episodes IV, V and VI, Duncan will explain the working processes of both the main unit and ILM. The talk will include ideas that never made it into the book, including the timeline of Boba Fett’s creation. This is a unique opportunity to see previously unpublished materials. To quote Paul Duncan, “I cannot take people into the archives, so I want to bring the archives to them.”
Monday, April 15
10:30AM – 11:30AM
Lucasfilm Publishing: Writers Roundtable
Join all-star Star Wars authors Claudia Gray (Master & Apprentice; Bloodline), Justina Ireland (Lando’s Luck), Daniel José Older (Last Shot), Cavan Scott (Tales from Vader’s Castle, The Choose Your Destiny series), and Charles Soule (Darth Vader: Dark Lord of the Sith, Poe Dameron) as they discuss their approach, process, and reception to writing stories set in a galaxy far, far away. Plus, get some exclusive news into future Star Wars publishing! Moderated by Lucasfilm’s Michael Siglain.
12:15PM – 1:15PM
Star Wars Celebration Tattoo Competition
The Star Wars Tattoo Competition at Celebration is where fans who have Star Wars tattoos (some just having gotten them at Celebration Chicago!) will show off their ink. Presented by Marc Draven (Ink Fusion Empire), the competition will feature these categories: small/medium color, large color, small/medium black and grey, large black and grey and tattoo of the weekend, with awards created exclusively for Star Wars Celebration.
2:00PM – 3:00PM
Check the Celebration Show App for Updates!
3:45PM – 4:45PM
IDW Publishing: The Adventures Continue!
From Forces of Destiny to Tales from Vader’s Castle and beyond, IDW’s line of Star Wars kids comics continue to delight readers of all ages and walks of life. Come hear from the writers and artists of your favorite Star Wars Adventures tales—including Nick Brokenshire, Delilah Dawson, Tony Fleecs, Michael Moreci, and Cavan Scott. Then stay for the best Q&A of Celebration, since every question is open only to non-adults! Plus, prizes for all kids in attendance!
SoCalThrills will be at the convention, covering as much Star Wars as you can possibly imagine. Make sure to stay tuned for all the exciting details!
It’s time to turn back the clock, grab your fanny pack, and prepare your mix tape, Disneyland has gone totally 90s. Let’s take a closer look at Disneyland’s exclusive Disney After Dark event! The start of the evening had us gathered outside the gate, eagerly waiting to enter a “whole new world” of excitement. As soon as saw the train station lit up in bold neon colors, we knew we were in for a unique experience.
The event kicked off with a special fireworks show set to the tune of Disney Afternoon shows such as DuckTales and the Gummy Bears. My group and I took it all in at “It’s a Small World”, which was an appropriate setting since that path was turned into “Disney Afternoon Avenue”, filled with special themed photo ops.
We met our fave 90s hunk Hercules at the Royal Theater!
Characters were out in droves throughout the park and you could find yourself bumping into Scrooge McDuck, singing about squashed bananas with Rafiki, hanging out with Timon and the Fantasmic Monkeys. My personal favorite of the evening was getting to meet Goofy and Max, dressed as the pop sensation, Powerline. The wait time to meet each character was pretty long, but Disney made sure there were plenty of other ways to enjoy the evening.
Main Street U.S.A. got a 90s night makeover with some new projections
Music played a huge part of setting the tone for 90s Nite. Tomorrowland Terrace featured a “punk band”, which was really more like a cover band that featured 90s artist such as No Doubt and Smashmouth.A DJ was stationed right in front of the ‘Partners” statue facing up Main Street USA, playing 90s hits from N*SYNC, Backstreet Boys, and Britney Spears.
Yet, the highlight of the night came from my journey to the Mark Twain. Every hour on the hour, the R&B group, The Sound, sang acapella hits from hit artists like TLC and Boys 2 Men. You may recognize the group from the Festival of Holidays in Disney California Adventure. The experience truly was the most unique and memorable trip I’ve ever had around the Rivers of America.
The Sound serenading guests on the Mark Twain Riverboat, my favorite moment of the evening
The fun didn’t stop there, as Disney also offered us exclusive themed food items, bringing that classic childhood vibe front and center. Some of the standout items were the bacon cheddar popcorn, PB&J churro, donut holes nachos, and bagel pizza bites. There was so much to try, though it was safe to say that the tropical punch dip pickles were a bit of a miss for me. Even so, I appreciate Disneyland bringing back the tropical punch craze.
If that wasn’t enough, some exclusive merchandise made its way into the parks for the evening. Right off the bat, there was a huge line to get into Emporium to snag a 90s Nite shirt and pin. Both items sold out, which was no surprise. Annual Passholders also received an exclusive button, featuring the 90s Nite print logo on it.
As you enter the queue for Indiana Jones, they passed out decoders to reveal the hidden messages inside.
One of the best offerings of the night came from a throwback to the opening of “Indiana Jones and the Temple of the Forbidden Eye”. When the ride first opened in 1995, a special decoder was handed out when you got in line, allowing guests to make sense of the phrases and symbols written on the temple walls throughout the attraction. For one night only, we got a chance to relive that experience, which gave us all something to do while waiting to join Indy on his latest adventure.
Overall, the night was a success, giving Disneyland a chance to fit in a lot of classic material and memories. The 90s were such a unique time for Disney and the Disneyland Resort. It was exciting to see how they brought that vibe back to us in 2019. This is one super rad event I hope they bring back in the future. Until then, we will just have to wait and see what other magic awaits!
Universal Studios Hollywood unveils the first look of its eagerly awaited mega-attraction, “Jurassic World—The Ride,” as anticipation grows for its grand opening this summer.
Leaping from the silver screen to the theme park, “Jurassic World—The Ride” will immerse guests into newly themed environments and breathe new life into dimensional animatronic dinosaurs, including some all-new fan favorites featured in the Jurassic World films from Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment.
This ambitious ride is being reimagined under the direction of the award-winning and inspired minds at Universal Creative, the Academy Award®-winning special-effects visionaries at Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), a division of Lucasfilm, Ltd., the brand stewards at Universal Pictures and acclaimed filmmakers Steven Spielberg, Colin Trevorrow and Frank Marshall.
The state-of-the-art attraction will debut an original storyline that takes place within the theme park as depicted in Jurassic World. It will feature additional new dinosaurs from the film, lush scenic design, and ground-breaking technology that has yet to be experienced within a theme park.
The aesthetics of “Jurassic World—The Ride” will be dramatically enhanced, welcoming guests to a reimagined space reflective of the Jurassic World films. A fresh, new entry statement, stonework landscaping and a contemporary redesign of the iconic pillars illuminated with billowing flames will support a prominent “Jurassic World” marquee logo.
Engaging queue-line videos featuring facts and information about the dinosaurs within the ride set the tone for the adventure ahead, as guests learn more about these imposing prehistoric inhabitants that first roamed the earth more than 65 million years ago.
And the daring expedition begins.
Once aboard specially designed rafts, guests will navigate the lush environs of dense vegetation, traversing new areas besieged with towering dinosaurs meandering just an arm’s length away from visitors. Encounters with such docile creatures as the Stegosaurus and Parasaurolophus will quickly turn awry as predatory Velociraptors and Dilophosaurus begin to wreak havoc, turning guests from spectators to prey. When the Tyrannosaurus rex begins to battle one of the attraction’s new behemoth dinosaurs, the rafts will spill down a treacherous 84-foot waterfall as the sole means of escape.
Located adjacent to the ride will be a new elaborately themed “Raptor Encounter” where Blue, the most beloved and deadly Velociraptor from the Jurassic World franchise, and her beta Raptors will engage guests in daring face-to-face encounters.
In addition, a new interactive “Dino Play” area will incorporate educational components within an inspired space where children of all ages can partake in excavations and investigate giant dinosaur fossils.
With so much to see and do at Universal Studios Hollywood, the all-new 2019 Season Pass invites guests to experience the fun throughout the year for $149 when purchased online. Blackout dates and restrictions apply. Visit www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com for more details.
We are now less than a month away from Star Wars Celebration Chicago and to help prepare you for the biggest Star Wars event in the galaxy, we have put together a special intergalactic field guide piecing together some of the exciting facts, details, and surprises revealed so far leading into next month’s epic extravaganza into one place.
Celebrations past have tried multiple ways to bring the world of Star Wars to the thousands of fans who are lucky enough to venture the convention hall, including traditional queues, wristbands, and overnight campouts. From JJ Abrams’ iconic pizza feast to Rian Johnson’s surprise overnight visit to fans, each Celebration has done something different. Celebration Chicago is no exception, bringing a new virtual queue reservations system and lottery to the table.
Flashback to Celebration Anaheim’s wristband system for the Celebration Stage panel events.
The full details, which can be reviewed in detail here, go over new setup for the convention’s largest events, happening on the legendary Celebration Stage, as well as exclusive merchandise offerings that will be a test pilot for the event’s new system.
For the first time, fans will make virtual LIGHTSPEED panel reservations through the soon to be released, Celebration App. For the convention’s largest events, held on the Celebration Stage, fans will be put into a lottery for their chance to be part of the event, with those who do not make it in being given the option to view the main event at the Galaxy and Twin Suns Stages through live stream.
Lines like this may be a thing of the past. Only time will tell!
The event badges are tied in the system, having a special QR code for the first time in Celebration’s 20 year run. Each code will allow a one time, non-transferable registration that will allow reservations to be submitted. It’s a well-conceived plan, but there is a great risk, as this is definitely a much larger world than fans are used to.
Stage Setup
For those new to Celebration, or even for those who need a refresher, here is a full list of stages that will be used at this year’s event. Each convention to date has had an almost identical structure for some of the convention’s most popular panels and presentations. In Celebration’s past, we have been awed with live performances by John Williams, intimate talks with Star Wars legends, as well as epic trailer reveals. With the big reveal of Episode IX just days away, who knows what Celebration Chicago will bring. A full list of stages is found below!
A look at Celebration Anaheim’s Celebration Stage.
Celebration Stage –Held at the Wintrust Arena, the celebration stage will act as the main stage for the duration of the convention.
Galaxy Stage – The galaxy stage will act as both a secondary stage for panel events in addition to additional live streaming coverage of each morning’s Celebration stage panels.
Behind-the-Scenes Stage – This special stage will cover what happens behind the magic, featuring the ins and outs of what builds the Star Wars universe. Featured panels and guests will come from all over the realm of comic books, film, television, toys, and much more.
Fan Stage –Made just for the fans, this stage will be home to 100 percent fan-produced content that includes game shows, cosplay panels, tutorials, and more.
Collector’s Stage – Located in Room W474, this room will be host to expert panels featuring collectors from all around the world throughout the length of Star Wars Celebration. Each panel will also feature an exclusive prize, a Star Tot, created specifically for the fans. With over 20 planned panels, there’s plenty to look collect and experience.
Podcast Stage – Throughout the length of Star Wars Celebration, this stage will be home to some of the world’s best Star Wars podcasts, broadcasting live from the event. Make sure to catch a show and be part of the fun!
Legendary Star Wars novelist, Timothy Zahn, teaches a writing seminar at Celebration Orlando.
Star Wars University – Much to learn, we all have in this master class series that will bring the experts and masters to the fans. The university will feature writing workshops, art master classes, show production, Japanese Star Wars vegetable carving, and more surprises!
Live Stage – It wouldn’t be Celebration without the Live Stage. Star Wars Celebration will be a live stream event, and this is the one place on the show floor where you can get caught up on all things Star Wars, including surprise guest appearances, panel coverage, and more than you can possibly imagine!
For those lucky few who get a chance to snag an exclusive piece of Celebration merchandise, Star Wars has revealed a first look at what’s to come in April. The exclusive lineup will include limited edition Black Series figures celebrating the 20th Anniversary of Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace in addition to convention only items from LEGO and Funko. Take a look at the full lineup by clicking here.
All other Celebration merchandise available at the Celebration Store will be on site without the need for a lottery entry. Instead, fans are welcome to submit a LIGHTSPEED virtual queue to reserve a time to shop rather than wait in line.
Don’t forget to explore the show floor, as there is plenty more in store from countless exhibitors. The main floor will be home to all the latest toys, vintage finds, and rare one-of-a-kind collectibles.
Hasbro’s Black Series is sure to make an explosive appearance, as seen here at Star Wars Celebration Orlando
Topps returns to Celebration this year with a full lineup of special guests and stars from across the galaxy, including Billy Dee Williams, James Arnold Taylor, Paul Bettany, Forest Whitaker, and of course, everyone’s favorite “yep” talking bounty hunter, Daniel Logan. The list continues to grow, but you can see the current guest lineup here.
Clone Wars Star and Her Universe Founder, Ashley Eckstein, signing and greeting fans.
Advanced autograph tickets can be purchased here, allowing you to select a date to see your favorite Star Wars stars. Topps will have full details, FAQs, and pricing on their official page.
Though fans still eagerly await the release of the full schedule for Star Wars Celebration Chicago, a tease of some of the event’s biggest panels have already been revealed. Each panel will focus on milestone celebrations, new content, and exclusive previews on what’s yet to pass in the world of Star Wars.
Star Wars’ official site has posted many of the panels reveals, including a 20th-anniversary panel for Star Wars: Episode I, a special look at Disney Parks’ brand new Galaxy’s Edge expansion, as well as the crown jewel, a panel dedicated to the upcoming film,Star Wars: Episode IX. With all the buzz, fans are hoping Celebration will be the big debut of the film’s official title and first trailer. Once the full schedule goes live, SoCalThrills will be there with the full scoop.
Other Convention Exclusives
A look at some of the featured artwork and artists at Star Wars Celebration Orlando
Celebration Chicago will also be home to fan favorite exclusives including the official convention art show, tattoo pavilion, fan props, sets, and fan organizations. There is plenty of fun for everyone, so don’t forget to explore the vast array Star Wars Celebration has to offer. You can take a closer look at what’s to come by clicking here and selecting the “Features” tab.
Prepare for an exclusive look at the show floor, special coverage, and much much more. We will see you in Chicago from April 11-15th! May the Force be with You!
Courtesy of Walt Disney Studios
Courtesy of Walt Disney Studios
