Captain Marvel is taking the cinematic universe by storm, breaking countless records and raking in an estimated $61.4 million on its opening this past Friday. According to Box Office Mojo, the latest Marvel release is now the third highest March opening of all time, shattering expectations with a staggering total of 456 million worldwide.
It doesn’t stop there, as the numbers continue to climb well past Disney’s estimated 153 million. The film’s success marks a bright spot in a year full of heavy hitters and also paves the way for more female-centered films to take on the Hollywood establishment. Similar to Wonder Woman, Captain Marvel is a shining example of what women in cinema can accomplish.
Brie Larson’s hard work and dedication shines, in addition to the countless women who helped bring Captain Marvel to life. From co-director and writer, Anna Boden to composer Pinar Toprak, there are so many trailblazing monuments to this film’s success. Strong females can’t be held back, and the general media consensus agrees, with big titles like Variety, Entertainment Weekly, and Vanity Fair chiming in. All the media buzz is bringing a clear and ever important message to the forefront: Women can and will lead the way in epic fashion.
Going into its second week, Captain Marvel still has plenty of room to shatter even more records, following in the footsteps of Black Panther and Avengers: Infinity War. Though, there is still some resistance to the latest Marvel installment, as seen with the recent changes to Rotten Tomatoes user reviews due to trolling and sexist flaming on the site prior to the film’s release. When viewing various social media posts, that same level of behavior is still very much rampant.
Yet, no level of posturing or immature Internet retaliation can change the fact that Captain Marvel soars beyond it all, not caring to look back. The film and all those involved don’t have anything to prove and have everything to gain in the process. Marvel Studios went all in, pushing towards the horizon of what the future could bring, and from a genre that is male dominant in story and fan base, it’s about time that the universe experiences the wider scope of storytelling that gives women role models, positive messages, and strong reinforcement.
What’s important now is for the industry to follow in Captain Marvel’s example. This is not a one off miracle or just another super charged popcorn flick; it has so much more to give. Your move Hollywood. What comes next?
Captain Marvel has arrived at the El Capitan Theatre and is turning the clock back to the 90s in epic fashion. From now until March 24th, moviegoers will get their chance to experience the fierce power of Carol Danvers in a way that can only be done at the El Capitan.
Jump right into the action with exclusive photo opportunities, including an up close look at Brie Larson’s iconic costumes from the film. The outfits are out on display in the main lobby, with a special throwback surprise photo location that is sure to turn the nostalgia level to high gear.
Partnering with the Disney Studio Store, there will also be plenty of unique merchandise opportunities from collectible popcorn tins to film crew gear. If you want to show your Captain Marvel pride after the show, make sure to stop and take a look!
You can purchase your tickets by visiting the El Capitan’s official site. If you want to learn more about Captain Marvel, don’t forget to check out the full scoop by reading our official film review!
Make way for the world’s most beloved street rat as this diamond in the rough brings high adventure to Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. The show faces a tough crowd as it plays to a local audience that was most familiar with a live musical version of the 1992 Disney animated feature just a couple of miles north in the Hyperion Theatre at the Disneyland Resort. One can’t help but be critical of the Broadway performance that follows a favorite theme park show that performed for 13 years. But never fear, the Disney Theatrical production team makes this show it’s own. Take the humor, for example, the script is littered with playful puns over an exhausting list of pop culture references. This helps keep the show more timeless and not so reliant in changing outdated humor. It’s refreshing and very memorable once you know them.
The cast of characters is mostly what you would expect to know and love. Aladdin, played by Clinton Greenspan, slips in very well as the protagonist aiming to win the heart of Princess Jasmine. The princess herself, played by Lissa deGuzman, maybe the role considered most deviated from any previous incarnation. It’s more like a person playing a character rather than being the character. This is most likely be due to the production’s vision rather than the performer. The character seems to purposely not want to meet the expectations of what a person of royalty would act. A free spirit if you will. But when it comes to her playing a joke, that seems to really push boundaries. Jafar, performed menacingly by Jonathan Weir, plays the antagonist in search of a magical lamp that summons a powerful genie to grant three wishes.
As for Genie, Major Attaway comes direct from Broadway with this tour company. He performs the role to the delight of audience laughter despite some distracting comedic timing. Some parallel characterizations unique to the Broadway musical involves the sidekicks to Aladdin and Jafar. Instead of the adorable monkey Abu as Aladdin’s partner in crime, we are treated to not one, not two, but three human partners in crime named Babkak, Omar, and Kassim. Oddly enough, also color coordinated with the RGB (red, green, and blue) color model. Perhaps a tongue-in-cheek awareness to Disney’s own trio of ducklings Huey, Dewey, and Louie? Zach Bencal, Philippe Arroyo, and Jed Feder play each other and Aladdin off well with humor and insights. Jafar’s loyal minion Iago molts his parrot feathers to be a human follower of Jafar’s evil plot. Jay Paranada plays him with a ridiculously fun flair to match his ridiculously large pants.
Disney’s Aladdin utilizes a brilliant scope of colors, set design, dance choreography, and dazzling costumes that will keep the imagination alive. From the bright neon fabrics of Agrabah to the pristine whites of the royal palace, and, of course, the wash of golds inside the Cave of Wonders. Some may oppose the dramatic brights of the city, but the opening song number “Arabian Nights” divulges and sets up that this is not your typical fictional city. Amongst other lyrical changes to the theatrical version to set the show’s tone. The palace itself focuses on displaying a white, probably plain, cleanliness adorned with intricate wall panels. A contrast to life inside and outside the palace walls. The interior of the Cave of Wonders is adorned with an endless amount of gold. It’s literally everywhere from the rock walls, to the face of the cave, and eventually the ensemble costumes. As shiny and bright as everything is made to be, there is little to break up the monotony of the color scheme.
The Broadway musical brings back many classical music and song favorites from the collaboration of Alan Menken, Howard Ashman, and Tim Rice. The new songs added to this production fits well enough and serves a purpose to push the story forward. “Proud of Your Boy” and “High Adventure” were restored after being cut from the original film and is a delightful welcome. However “Somebody’s Got Your Back” during a prison scene seems to slow down the show’s pace and is a bit of a head-scratcher. There is a melody in “These Palace Walls” that sounds awful recognizable from the song “Rhythm of the Tambourine” from the Disney live musical adaptation of “Hunchback of Notre Dame”. Another disappoint was, oddly enough, “A Whole New World”. The delivery of the duet felt emotionless. The sensation of “awe” is attempted visually with the Aladdin and Jasmine on a character-less magic carpet ride against a blinking starfield backdrop. A subtle curtain ripples across the dark stage. Then the couple jump into a wave of shooting stars as the magic carpet hovers in front of the glowing moon that dissolves into the earth. A bazaar (pun intended) image.
Overall, this is a great time at the theatre with family, friends, or significant other. Nostalgia may take hold for those who have watched the movie or seen the Disneyland Resort show countless times. This is one Disney Theatrical Broadway show that should be seen before the end of its Costa Mesa run on March 23.
Wickedly enchanting news is developing now that Walt Disney Studios has revealed that Maleficent will be returning to the silver screen much sooner than we all expected. The surprise news has revealed the film’s dark new title and release date.
Maleficent: Mistress of Evil flies into theaters on October 18th, 2019, bringing back a star studded cast of favorites including the dark fairy herself, Angelina Jolie. She will be joined by Queen Aurora (Elle Fanning) in addition to Michelle Pfeiffer. You can learn more about the film by clicking here.
To celebrate the news, Disney has also released this special teaser poster, which beautifully brings Maleficent out of the shadows. With a huge slate of films on the way, 2019 is proving to be a big year for Disney. Stay tuned!
Whether you fly from one side of the galaxy to another, spend your time on a moisture farm on a remote desert planet, or are leading an epic struggle against the First Order, there isn’t anything that can compare to the fun that awaits in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at the Disneyland Resort. Opening this May, the new land will instantly transport guests to the remote planet of Batuu, filled with one of a kind experiences, unique sights, smells, tastes, and so much more!
Through the Play Disney Parks App, guests will find themselves in the middle of an epic and immersive experience that will bring the power of Star Wars full circle. Guests will get the opportunity to aid a smuggler, join the Resistance, or pledge themselves to the dark deeds of the First Order. Prepare yourself for something unlike anything you’ve experienced before with this helpful guide at what’s to come this summer in a galaxy not so far away.
Welcome to the Edge of Wild Space: Black Spire Outpost on Batuu
Batuu is a far-flung destination along the galaxy’s Outer Rim, on the frontier of Wild Space – the uncharted region beyond all known star systems. Batuu is home to Black Spire Outpost, an infamous port for smugglers, traders and adventurers wishing to avoid any unnecessary … entanglements with the First Order. Along the way, guests may encounter some familiar faces, from Rey, Finn, and Poe to BB-8 and Chewie.
Star Wars Adventures Come to Life in Two Thrilling Attractions
For more than four decades, Star Wars fans have imagined what it would be like to blast across the stars inside the Millennium Falcon or race through the halls of a Star Destroyer. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will feature two signature attractions that turn those dreams into reality.
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, will take guests into the cockpit of “the fastest hunk of junk in the galaxy.” They will take the controls of the Falcon in one of three unique and critical roles as the ship hurtles through space. Some will be pilots, some gunners and some flight engineers, creating multiple ways for guests to experience the attraction.
Set to open later this year, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance places guests right in the middle of the Rebellion and gives them an active role in the fight against the First Order, including a faceoff with Kylo Ren. Their journey takes them inside a full-size starship and aboard a nearby Star Destroyer.
A Diverse Menu of Food and Beverages Await
What does Blue Milk actually taste like? That question and more will be answered when guests visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and experience the new land’s expansive array of food and beverages. Guests will walk through a bustling street market, where vendors offer various local delicacies, including an Outpost Mix of uniquely flavored popped grains from Kat Saka’s Kettle, a unique popcorn snack with a combination of sweet, savory and spicy flavors.
At Oga’s Cantina, even the blaster-bolt scorches on the walls tell a story. Here, guests will gather to share their tales from around the galaxy as they enjoy exotic beverages served in unique vessels and listen to spirited musical entertainment provided by DJ R-3X, otherwise known as Rex, the former Starspeeder 3000 pilot droid from the original Star Tours. Rex re-invents himself as the cantina’s DJ, and he’s as quirky and talkative as ever.
A multi-purpose transport shuttle docked on top of a large hangar will beckon guests into Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo, a designated location for traveling food shuttles. Chef Strono “Cookie” Tuggs is in much demand for his culinary skills, so he moves from site to site in a modified Sienar-Chall Utilipede-Transport that becomes a mobile kitchen and restaurant. His travels across the galaxy allow him to fill his pantry with exotic ingredients he uses to make new and unusual dishes. He is proud to present Tuggs’ Grub, a “traveling diner for diners traveling,” inspired by dishes he created during his time working for Maz Kanata on Takodana.
In the Black Spire Outpost market, Ronto Roasters will draw attention from passersby with its large podracing engine firing up a barbecue pit for mouth-watering Ronto Wraps. When hungry customers queue up to order, they will encounter a former smelter droid, carefully turning the spit of meats. Guests will also be able to choose from a variety of exotic non-alcoholic drinks like the Sour Sarlacc or Tatooine Sunset.
Elsewhere in the market, the Milk Stand will offer two local favorites – Blue Milk and Green Milk. Blue Milk was first seen in “Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope” when Luke Skywalker sat down for a family meal. Green Milk was introduced in “Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi.”
Take a Piece of the Star Wars Galaxy Home from a Vibrant Market
Food is one of many discoveries just waiting to be made while wandering the lively market of Black Spire Outpost, where guests will encounter a robust collection of merchant shops and stalls filled with authentic Star Wars creations.
The Droid Depot will invite guests to construct their own astromech droids. Patrons will pick pieces and parts off a conveyor belt to build one of two core models (R-series or BB-series) and they can customize their droids with various parts and colors. These droids will be capable of interacting with elements in the land. Additional programming chips and accessories can be added to further customize these new friends. In addition, the Droid Depot will offer pre-built droids, droid-inspired products and more.
At Savi’s Workshop – Handbuilt Lightsabers, guests will have the opportunity to customize and craft their very own lightsabers. In this mystical experience, guests will feel the Force as they build these elegant weapons from a more civilized age.
Inside Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities, guests will find a selection of rare and mysterious items for sale representing different eras of the Star Wars galaxy, including holocrons, ancient Jedi and Sith artifacts, lightsabers and more. As they explore the nooks and crannies of the shop, guests will also see Dok at his desk as the large Ithorian checks his inventory, takes incoming calls and barks the occasional order at his assistants.
In addition to these special experiences, the Black Spire Outpost market will feature the Creature Stall dedicated to the plethora of rare and fascinating creatures that populate the galaxy, as well as Black Spire Outfitters, showcasing the latest in accessories. Guests will also find the Toydarian Toymaker, a stall full of toys crafted by a Toydarian (the flying alien species first seen in Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace).
Guests can also demonstrate where their loyalties lie with the gear and accessories they purchase within the land. Resistance Supply is a “makeshift” supply location at the Resistance’s hidden command area. The stall sells Resistance pins, badges, hats, and other accessories to help guests feel like part of the cause. First Order Cargo, meanwhile, is a temporary First Order storage dock near the market. Easily identified by a never-before-seen First Order TIE echelon, the cargo location will offer guests a chance to pledge their loyalty by purchasing pins, caps, gear, model ships and more.
Play Disney Parks Mobile App Deepens Guest Engagement with the Land
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is the first land within a Disney park designed to integrate with the Play Disney Parks mobile app, which debuted last year and offers interactive adventures and experiences that bring surrounding environments to life at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort. When guests use the app, it will provide new opportunities for them to engage with the land, such as translating a galactic language, learning what’s hidden inside crates and containers, or accomplishing certain tasks by participating in missions.
Guests also can use the Play Disney Parks app to interact with a variety of elements in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, such as droids, ships, media screens, door panels and antenna arrays.
Iconic Musical Score for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
Music has been an integral part of Star Wars from the moment the iconic themes of Academy Award-winning® composer John Williams first introduced us to this galaxy. The music for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge continues that tradition with a suite of all-new Williams-composed themes written especially for the land and its attractions. Along with a collection of original cantina songs created by composers and songwriters from around the globe, this new music will deepen guests’ connection to the land as Williams complements and builds upon the iconic fanfares he created for the Star Wars films.
The expanded universe of Star Wars is coming much sooner than expected, as Walt Disney Parks and Resorts revealed that Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will be opening in May 2019 at the Disneyland Resort. The official opening date is slated for May 31st, along with an opening date of August 29th at the Walt Disney World Resort.
The new land will open in two phases, starting with Phase 1 that includes the grand opening of Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. Later this year, the land’s second attraction, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, will debut and bring the full force of Star Wars front and center.
For all guests planning their trips to visit the new land, please note that at Disneyland Park between May 31st and June 23rd, an additional no-cost reservation will be required along with valid theme park admission. The reservations will be subject to availability and are limited, so stay tuned. More information on how to obtain a reservation will be available in the near future according to Disney Parks and Resorts.
All hotel guests staying on property at the Disneyland Resort will also receive a designated reservation to access Galaxy’s Edge during their stay. Make sure to make reservations quickly, as each hotel is bound to book up fast.
Dancers, bubbles, and a seven-foot LEGO® birthday cake were a part of the fun asLEGOLAND® California Resort kicked off its birthday month by announcing its new 20th Birthday Dance Party. The new interactive show features the Park’s newest LEGO Characters, Jake and Emily, who were named in tribute to the two most popular boy and girl baby names the year the Park opened in 1999. The special 20th Birthday Dance Party show can be seen daily starting March 16 through Sept. 1 and is filled with singing and dancing for all families to enjoy.
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That’s not all…for LEGOLAND California’s birthday on March 20, 2019, the first 1,000 kids entering the Park will receive free child-size minifigure hands and guests will be treated to a special birthday-themed Park opening ceremony where one lucky child celebrating their birthday will get an opportunity to officially open the Park for the day.
The LEGO birthday cake, created out of more than 51 thousand LEGO bricks, will also be on display showcasing the many attractions that have been added to the family theme park since it was “born” 20 years ago. The year-long celebration also includes a new LEGO Friends Birthday show, exclusive birthday desserts, pop badges and more. And as LEGOLAND California’s gift to its younger guests, all children ages 12 and under get in for free on their birthday all year long!
All 20th birthday activities are included with the price of admission into LEGOLAND California Resort. For more information, visitwww.LEGOLAND.com or call (760) 918-LEGO (5346).
Celebrating the upcoming release of Disney’s live-action movie “Dumbo,” Spirit Airlines unveiled its specially-themed Airbus A321 that features a larger-than-life image of the beloved Disney character Dumbo.
Spirit and Disney revealed the new plane with a time-lapse video of the decal-wrapping process which took place at Spirit’s state-of-the-art Detroit maintenance hangar. Check it out below:
The plane will join Spirit’s growing Fit Fleet of 132 aircraft, one of the youngest and most fuel-efficient in the country. The plane takes off on Wednesday, March 6, 2019 from Detroit Metro Airport (DTW) to Orlando International Airport (MCO). Guests traveling between Detroit, Orlando, San Juan, Fort Lauderdale, and Baltimore/Washington will have the chance to fly with “Dumbo” on the first three days of service.
The aircraft will then travel across the country for the next two months, celebrating the movie’s release on March 29, 2019.
From Disney and visionary director Tim Burton, the all-new grand live-action adventure “Dumbo” expands on the beloved classic story where differences are celebrated, family is cherished and dreams take flight. Circus owner Max Medici (Danny DeVito) enlists former star Holt Farrier (Colin Farrell) and his children Milly (Nico Parker) and Joe (Finley Hobbins) to care for a newborn elephant whose oversized ears make him a laughingstock in an already struggling circus. But when they discover that Dumbo can fly, the circus makes an incredible comeback, attracting persuasive entrepreneur V.A. Vandevere (Michael Keaton), who recruits the peculiar pachyderm for his newest, larger-than-life entertainment venture, Dreamland. Dumbo soars to new heights alongside a charming and spectacular aerial artist, Colette Marchant (Eva Green), until Holt learns that beneath its shiny veneer, Dreamland is full of dark secrets.
Tehachapi in winter is highlighted by snow covered mountains and giant wind turbines (photo by Greg Aragon)
I love a scenic, Sunday drive. And when it includes things like snow, giant wind turbines and great food, then I know it’s a winner. Such was the case this past weekend when a couple friends and I drove to the small town of Tehachapi, about 115 miles north of Los Angeles.
To get there we took the 14 Freeway north near Santa Clarita for about 60 miles until pulling off onto to a street called Backus Road, near Edwards Air Force Base. This is where the fun began.
Backus Rd is lined with rocky mountain outcroppings and rustic, desert landscape, speckled with deserted structures and a few human outposts. After about 8 miles we turned onto Tehachapi Willow Springs Rd, which wound up through mountains, lined with massive, towering wind turbines and lots of snow. Thanks to recent rains, and Tehachapi’s 4,000-ft elevation, snow was everywhere and it was a memorable sight.
Built from 1980’s on, the wind machines stand up to 200 ft.-tall and have blades spanning the length of a football field. The wind farm, which boasts more than 4,000 turbines, is one of the largest wind resource areas in California.
After admiring the wind farm, we drove a few more miles to downtown Tehachapi and parked beneath the iconic Tehachapi Water Tower. I then read a little history. The area was first occupied by the Kawaiisu Indians, before settlers arrived in the 1850s to farm, raise cattle, develop lumber, and mine for gold and limestone.
In 1876, the Southern Pacific Railroad came to the valley and created the town of Tehachapi. The town grew and railroad engineers designed the ingenious Tehachapi Loop, which made it possible for trains to climb from the San Joaquin Valley and run through Tehachapi to Mojave, Los Angeles, Barstow and other eastern destinations.
Located eight miles west of town, the Tehachapi Loop is the busiest single-track in the US, connecting San Joaquin Valley to Arizona. It is considered an engineering marvel because if a train is long enough, it can enter a tunnel and pass over itself before leaving the loop. We were lucky enough to see such a train and it was another great Tehachapi sight. The loop is a California Historical Landmark, and also a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark.
Back in town, we learned more about trains at the Tehachapi Railroad Depot Museum (www.tehachapidepot.com), a restored train station museum, with tons of old locomotive photos, artifacts, displays, and real train tracks, with trains running by every 45 minutes. The place also has friendly volunteers that love to tell train stories.
From the depot, we walked next door to the Tehachapi Village Market Center, which is housed in a renovated 1940s potato shed. Here we discovered Kohnen’s Country Bakery, an authentic German bakery, where Thomas Kohnen bakes a variety of Danishes, éclairs, cookies and other goodies from scratch using authentic recipes he brought with him straight from his homeland.
Kohnen’s also sells a variety of fresh deli sandwiches on over 20 types of artisan breads baked daily. We went with the Reuben. Served on German rye bread, with pastrami, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, German pickle and 1000 island dressing, this might be the best Reuben sandwich I’ve ever had.
After lunch we strolled over to the Tehachapi Museum. Located in a 1932 art deco building, the compact museum features things like a 4-ft.-long femur bone from a wooly mammoth, a washing machine from 1900, a grandfather clock from 1785, an old gun collection, and displays dedicated to native Americans and Tehachapi’s WWII veterans.
From the museum we walked across the street and investigated the historic Errea House Garden. Constructed by a local doctor between 1870 and 1875, the house is built out of redwood and designed in simple, rectangular “saltbox” architectural style. Besides old furniture, the house features secluded rock garden, with shade trees and a totem pole.
Leaving the old house we walked around town, admiring the numerous large murals lining Main Street. Painted by local artists, the pictures bring to life Tehachapi’s colorful past in images such as street dancing in 1915, Native American village life, and the Tehachapi Loop.
It’s been almost a year since Marvel Studios dropped one of the biggest cliffhangers of all time on the filmgoing audience with Avengers: Infinity War. As we wait with baited breath to see how the Avengers – – as well as the Marvel Cinematic Universe as we know it – – comes to a close, Marvel has one last surprise for audiences in the form of Captain Marvel, the twenty-first film in the ever-growing superhero tale that Marvel Studios has been unfolding since 2008. As the final piece of the cinematic puzzle, this franchise has become, Captain Marvel feels like a necessary step forward for the MCU, as well as back to basics approach for the series that we haven’t seen since Doctor Strange. Sometimes going back to what made your series work from the beginning gives you a fresh perspective on just how far we’ve come, which makes you appreciate what Marvel has accomplished thus far.
It helps that Captain Marvel is led by Academy Award winner Brie Larson, who gets a chance to shine not only in the first female-led film in the MCU, who really embraces the role of Carol Danvers. Her performance is something almost alien at times, which makes sense because she may or not be an alien who has no memory of her past. It’s a subtle performance at times, but it also gives her the chance to really show off her fun side, something we haven’t seen from her in a long time. More than that, she’s surrounded by a great supporting cast in Samuel L. Jackson and Ben Mendelsohn, both who get a lot to do within the film itself, and really add a lot to the overall MCU. Jackson especially gets a chance to flesh out Nick Fury, a character we’ve seen for years on screen, in a way we haven’t seen before. This isn’t the world-weary Fury that we’re used to, but a more youthful version of the character who can’t quite wrap his head around the idea of life off this planet. It’s really great getting to see this character in a new way, again opening our eyes to just how far we’ve come within this cinematic franchise.
But as mentioned before, it’s really Ben Mendelsohn as Talos, the leader of the shapeshifting Marvel alien race known as the Skrulls. Instead of being just another mindless horde led by a one-dimensional villain, Talos ends up being not only one of the most interesting villains in the MCU but one of the franchise’s most endearing and relatable as well. There’s a very human story here to what he’s trying to do, much like Thanos’ story in Infinity War, which really gives Mendelsohn something special to work with. One thing is for sure, for as much flack as the Marvel films have gotten for having a “villain problem,” it seems like they’ve really figured out exactly what it is that makes the best villains, and their last few films have really shown that. However, one character that could have made a great return, but ends up not doing much sadly, is Clark Gregg’s Agent Phil Coulson, making his first appearance in the films since 2012’s The Avengers. As fun as it is to see the character again, he honestly doesn’t add much to the proceedings, which is a bit frustrating for those looking for him to have a triumphant return. Is it fun seeing him again? Absolutely, but it doesn’t add much to the film’s narrative.
One thing that makes Captain Marvel very special though is that throwback 1990s setting that gives the film a fun nostalgic throwback feel. The first thing it does is let the film have a really great nostalgic 90s soundtrack, but more than that, it also lets the film live in a time that gives the movie the chance to feel like a throwback itself. Directors Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck find a way to give the movie the feel of Independence Day mixed with Top Gun. There’s a very real feel of those big 90s and late 80s tentpoles that we all harken back to. Carol Danvers lives so well in this time frame, and it makes the movie feel a bit different from the rest of the MCU, while still feeling familiar. It’s a great balance, and it really makes me appreciate what Boden and Fleck have done within their first go in the MCU.
Honestly, what Boden and Fleck have done with the film is very impressive, especially because they haven’t made a film quite like this before. They manage to juggle some fantastic character work with great character drama, in particular, the relationship between Carol and her friend Maria Rambeau, played by Lashana Lynch in the film. For how much is happening in the movie, the character work never takes a backseat to the action, which is fantastic considering how often big blockbusters put character work in the backseat. It’s also great that instead of doing a straightforward origin film, it’s told in a more broken narrative that builds to her past through what’s happening in the present. Storytelling like that doesn’t always work, and while at times it creates a few pacing issues towards the film’s first half, but by the film’s end, it all comes together in a nice way that makes it work. For that alone, this ends up making it one of the most unique films in the MCU to date.
Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck, along with their stars Brie Larson and Samuel L. Jackson, have saved a fun 1990s throwback science fiction film for last with Captain Marvel,reminding audiences of the MCU of yesteryear, while also wetting our appetite for what’s to come with Marvel’s ultimate finale. More than that, the film feels like a unique vision within the sprawling narrative of the Marvel Cinematic Universe which fans will have fun with. However, its Ben Mendelsohn as Talos who really gets a chance to shine as one of the best villains in the MCU to date. For that alone, it makes Captain Marvel another winner for Marvel Studios. If anything else, it’s sure to make you even more excited for what Carol is going to add to Avengers: Endgame, which at the end of the day, means the film has done its job.
The Knott’s Boysenberry Festival is an annual food-inspired event that celebrates the park’s historic roots by highlighting the little berry that started it all, the boysenberry. This year’s newly-expanded festival will feature over 75 unique boysenberry-inspired creations crafted by the Knott’s culinary team. Guests will have the opportunity to indulge in a tantalizing line up of dishes ranging from savory foods with a boysenberry twist to one-of-a-kind specialty desserts and drinks that can only be found at Knott’s Berry Farm during this time of the year. In addition to the numerous food and drink offerings, the Knott’s Boysenberry Festival offers a wide selection of local crafters, live music, musical stage shows and fun activities for guests of all ages to enjoy. This year’s Boysenberry Festival runs 31 days starting March 29, operating daily through April 28, 2019.
This year’s lineup will introduce several new food items including:
Hearty boysenberry chili in a fresh-baked boysenberry sourdough bread bowl
Tender boysenberry pot roast served over rich and creamy boysenberry mashed potatoes
Grilled boysenberry BBQ chicken skewers served with a zesty boysenberry aioli dipping sauce
Boysenberry glazed salmon served on mixed greens and topped with a boysenberry vinaigrette
Spicy boysenberry habanero baked mac and cheese
Boysenberry jambalaya prepared with chicken, boysenberry sausage and bell peppers served with white rice
Boysenberry pulled pork tostada topped with creamy coleslaw and boysenberry drizzle
Boysenberry-lemon hummus served with pita bread
Grilled boysenberry sausage on a freshly baked roll topped with boysenberry ketchup, relish, and mustard
Boysenberry elote, a grilled corn on the cob smothered in fresh boysenberry butter, mayo and topped off with cotija cheese
Fresh-baked boysenberry waffles served with sweet maple boysenberry cream cheese syrup
Boysenberry cinnamon sugar tortilla crisps served with creamy boysenberry ice cream
A great way to indulge the new boysenberry food items during the festival is by purchasing a tasting card priced at $35 which offers eight tastings from a selection of fourteen boysenberry-inspired dishes. A variety of signature boysenberry items will also be available for purchase a la carte. Tasting cards are available at Knotts.com or at the theme park.
Guest can also take home a taste of the boysenberry festival with limited edition merchandise found throughout the park. This year’s new merchandise includes a selection of event apparel, plus new packaged food items perfect for take-home souvenirs like the boysenberry peanut, cashew and pecan brittle, boysenberry hand-dipped chocolate-covered turtles, graham crackers and honeycomb. The Knott’s Berry Market also features signature boysenberry items like the delicious boysenberry BBQ sauce or the classic jams and preserves. Unique boysenberry inspired artisan products will also be available at the Boysenberry Festival Craft Fair returning with 30 local craft vendors.
Entertainment:
Knott’s Boysenberry Festival offers endless entertainment options for the festival goer:
Tied up in Knott’s! – “Tied Up in Knott’s!” is a tribute art show dedicated to the rich history of Knott’s Berry Farm. Over 30 artists will be contributing 50 pieces of art to the show, which pays homage to Knott’s Berry Farm’s past, present and future in various mediums including oil paintings, illustrations, and digital mixed media. These original pieces will be hung on display at the Wilderness Dance Hall during the duration of the Boysenberry Festival.
Snoopy’s Boysenberry Jamboree! – Guests are invited to join Snoopy, Charlie Brown and the entire Peanuts Gang in a musical stage show that will have families dancing along at the Calico Mine Stage.
Old Time Melodrama – Knott’s pays tribute to its past at the Legendary Bird Cage Theatre with a special presentation of the musical comedy melodrama with a surprising boysenberry twist!
Krazy Kirk and the Hillbillies – A group of krazy talented performers will have guests toe tappin’, vine dancin’ and knee-slappin’ to a comedic country music show at the Wagon Camp stage.
Musical Performances – Various musical duos playing Country and Bluegrass tunes will take the stage at Fireman’s stage.
Old MacDonald Petting Zoo – Young ones and young at heart are invited to cozy up to the cutest critters on the farm including horses, sheep, goats and other furry friends. Old MacDonald’s farm pays tribute to one of the farm’s original attractions.
The Boysenberry Festival is included with admission to Knott’s Berry Farm. Additional costs apply for food tasting experiences within the event. Knott’s will have extended hours on select days March 29 – April 28, allowing guests extra time to take advantage of all of the limited-time offerings.
The best way to savor every day of the Knott’s Boysenberry Festival and all of the other Seasons of Fun is with a 2019 Season Pass. A Regular Season Pass includes unlimited admission in 2019 to Knott’s Berry Farm with no blackout dates, and a Gold Season Pass includes unlimited admission in 2019 to both Knott’s Berry Farm and Knott’s Soak City Waterpark with no blackout dates. Regular passes are just $98 or five easy payments of $15.50 after an initial payment and Gold Passes are $118 or five easy payments of just $18.50 after an initial payment. These offers ends on April 28, 2019. Applicable taxes and fees apply. Payment plans are only available at knotts.com.
Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort invite guests to experience an exciting new dimension of sorcery at “The Wizarding World of Harry PotterTM” with the introduction of the “Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle,” a powerful, original and breathtaking projection experience.
The “Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle” will illuminate Hogwarts castle and “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” nightly from April 13 – 28 at Universal Studios Hollywood then return from May 25 – 27.
Universal Orlando Resort’s experience will debut later this year with dates to be announced at a later time.
This exciting all-new experience in “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” will cast a mesmerizing display of light, music and special effects, unleashing the darkest creatures and villains, including the powerful Dark wizard Lord Voldemort.
Illuminating a darker side of the Wizarding World, this spectacular new light projection experience will be a departure from previous “The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle” and “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle.” “Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle” will bring more intense tones and drama that reflect the Dark creatures and wizards that challenge goodness in the Wizarding World.
Guests will be asked to summon their inner strength and bravery in the face of the all-consuming Dark Arts as some of the awe-inspiring moments and creatures inspired by the films come to life within the majestic light display.
As darkness falls on Hogwarts castle, Dementors™, Death Eaters and other unspeakable creatures from Aragog and Mountain Trolls to Thestrals will cloak the castle with sinister images from the darker side of magic—even conjuring the visage of Lord Voldemort™ himself, until the Patronus spell—one of the most famous, difficult and powerful defense of the Dark Arts charms in the wizarding world—is cast.
“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
The “Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle” will be accompanied by an exclusive musical arrangement that will emanate in a surround sound environment. It was conducted by prolific arranger William Ross and recorded by the London Symphony Orchestra in London, based on the original scores composed for the film series created by Academy Award®-winning composer John Williams.
Inspired by J.K. Rowling’s compelling stories and characters that were brought to life in the Warner Bros. films, “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” at Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort is a masterful recreation, faithful to the visual landscape of the fiction and films, including as its iconic focal point, Hogwarts castle.
From its snow-capped roofs and cobblestone streets to the historic British sensibilities that characterize the whimsical look and feel of the land, “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” transports guests of all ages to the very places they watched on the silver screen.
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.
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As for Genie, Major Attaway comes direct from Broadway with this tour company. He performs the role to the delight of audience laughter despite some distracting comedic timing. Some parallel characterizations unique to the Broadway musical involves the sidekicks to Aladdin and Jafar. Instead of the adorable monkey Abu as Aladdin’s partner in crime, we are treated to not one, not two, but three human partners in crime named Babkak, Omar, and Kassim. Oddly enough, also color coordinated with the RGB (red, green, and blue) color model. Perhaps a tongue-in-cheek awareness to Disney’s own trio of ducklings Huey, Dewey, and Louie? Zach Bencal, Philippe Arroyo, and Jed Feder play each other and Aladdin off well with humor and insights. Jafar’s loyal minion Iago molts his parrot feathers to be a human follower of Jafar’s evil plot. Jay Paranada plays him with a ridiculously fun flair to match his ridiculously large pants.
