Tim Burton’s ‘The Nightmare Before Christmas’ was released 25 years ago (10.29). To celebrate, Vitamin String Quartet (VSQ) shared it’s tribute to Danny Elfman’s eerie masterpiece.
Link to album: https://open.spotify.com/album/1kQbCezHW2WISK4pcXl8Fi?si=7gvLMbj-QSeHKwElr79Z2w
Revisit 12 of the standout tracks from this spooky collection, including: “What’s This,” “This Is Halloween,” “Sally’s Song,” Jack’s Lament,” “Kidnap The Sandy Claws,” “Jack’s Obsession,” and more.
Right in the heart of Southern California, thousands of geeks, nerds, and cosplayers assembled to ring in another exciting year of the ever popular, LA Comic-Con. Every inch of the convention center was taken over by a wave of nostalgia and creativity, creating a memorable experience that can only be defined as culturally phenomenal.
From the crack of dawn, crowds lined up in hoards, preparing to jump into the day’s panels, events, and fan gatherings. Some of the most notable appearances came from Tenacious D’s Jack Black, The Room’s Tommy Wiseau, Arrow’s Katie Cassidy, Halloweentown’s Kimberly J. Brown, and Mandy producer, Elijah Wood.
Similar to other large events, like San Diego Comic-Con, the three-day convention is home to multiple expressions of fandom that range from non-profit cosplay meetups, to film screenings, to fan-run panels discussing various topics across the never-ending mass of pop culture references. Each day, multiple events run from sunup to sundown, not leaving a moment to spare unless it’s for a quick photo op. Even concessions are a hot ticket, creating long enough lines to trick you into thinking you were waiting for a celebrity meet and greet.
Though, the main draw to any convention is cosplay, which was no exception in LA this year. All levels and ages came together, displaying their best and most creative interpretations of their favorite characters. You can see some of the amazing outfits we encountered by checking out our Cosplay Roundup.
Yet, for once, the attention shifted away from the flashy display of costumes to focus on another shining moment. During the convention’s Cosplay Championship, a couple was brought to the stage in honor of their first convention visit. Within moments, the crowd was surprised by a heartfelt proposal, with a well deserved yes following shortly after. The crowd cheered, warm and full of smiles, providing the very essence of what convention culture stands for: bringing people closer together.
Though this year’s event is in the books, there’s still plenty of time to prepare for the next celebration. LA Comic-Con returns to Southern California from October 11-13th 2019. You can learn more about the event and stay up to date with what’s to come by visiting their official site.
No convention is complete without cosplay, and LA Comic-Con was in no short supply, bringing in countless numbers of creative costumes, concepts, and one of a kind creations. From Star Wars to John Carpenter’s Halloween, to Deadpool, there was something for just about everyone. Marvel and DC dominated the con, with numerous variations of Spider-Man, characters from X-Men, and the DCU.
Yet, there were some other touching nods, such as this wonderful couples’ cosplay from The Greatest Showman. Each moment brought forth another surprise appearance, bringing everyone together in collective fun and excitement.
For saddened fans of Toys R Us, a little joy was also brought onto the faces within the convention halls, as Geoffrey the Giraffe was seen looking for toys, photo ops, and cheers from the crowd. Though the store may be dark and shuttered, its clear that the legacy of Toys R Us lives on in our hearts and minds, earning a permanent place in modern pop culture.
It all came together with an epic display of costuming, through the convention’s annual cosplay championships. The handful of lucky contestants strut their handmade creations for the entire hall to see. Victors were chosen in three categories. Leading the way was a flawless version of Elsa from Frozen, taking home the grand prize of $8,000. It was a night full fantastic moments, worthy of a joyful tear or two.
If you would like to catch up on some of the amazing outfits and costumes that made their way out to LA Comic Con this year, take a look at the full gallery of images below.
The Nutcracker and the Four Realms is in a world all its own, breaking out from the mold of the original ballet classic into a unique cinematic experience. This Nutcracker pays tribute to the original ballet, but not in the ways we’d expect, and ultimately, uses the base of the beloved suite to form a completely new version of itself that asks to be judged on its own merit rather than in comparison.
Nutcracker and the Four Realms is visually captivating, filled with beautiful scenery, lavish set designs, and stunning cinematography. From an aesthetic standpoint, this film is a real treat for the eyes and that breathtaking imagery is by far one of the film’s greatest strengths. The production definitely kept the ballet in mind, as every element is done on a grand scale. Anything less than spectacular would fall flat, especially when you are introducing an audience to a completely new world.
When you visit each location, whether it be the frosty streets of London in the opening sequence or the grand tour of each of the realms, you’re fully immersed in the sights, sounds, and atmosphere. The film uses that immersion to its advantage, even taking a page from the Walt Disney classic, Fantasia, with a beautiful scene that pays tribute to the unforgettable symphony. The scene features Ballerina Princess, Misty Copeland, as she re-enacts the history of the Four Realms. Just like Fantasia, it’s theatrical, colorful, and exuberant.
Costume design played hand in hand with that aesthetic, bringing the world of the Nutcracker to life with intricate, appealing, and eye-popping elements that come right off the screen. Costume Designer, Jenny Beavan, has really outdone herself with every single character, complementing the look of the film while finding ways to add unique flair. One example of this is Clara’s soldier attire. The uniform exemplifies Clara’s fiery attitude and independent personality.
That independent streak rings throughout the film, especially with the help of Mackenzie Foy. Clara is in every sense a fighter for what she believes in, with or without the uniform. Foy does a fantastic job, bringing a genuinely fun and engaging performance to the table, reminding us all that it is okay to not only be brave and curious but also uncertain and vulnerable. She is a wonderful role model for young girls, and part of a growing trend of positive female characters that society needs more of.
Foy is joined by a star-studded cast, with the expected strength of Morgan Freman, Keira Knightley, and Helen Mirren. Yet, even with such big Hollywood icons, the most entertaining character outside of Clara is a relative unknown. Jayden Fowora-Knight, whose only other screen credit includes a brief appearance in Spielberg’s Ready Player One, is marvelous as the Nutcracker. He compliments Foy perfectly, bringing in plenty of charm and poise. He’s definitely someone to keep an eye out for, as this may be just the beginning for him.
Nevertheless, the stars haven’t completely aligned with this film. While everything else about this film plays itself out marvelously, the story still feels lacking. Once Clara enters the land of the Four Realms, the pace moves incredibly fast, creating gaps in the narrative and leaves you wanting more. We are sped through the central conflict, which feels glossed over and a bit too easy to overcome along with a villain that gets very little screen time. Because of that, the pay off doesn’t have the same luster and it’s hard to not wonder if there was something left on the cutting room floor.
Still, The Nutcracker and the Four Realms is an entertaining adventure that’s perfect to get you in the holiday spirit. There are so many wonderful elements put together to make this film a reality, along with the potential to be something more than it is. If you are interested in a heartwarming family tale, there’s definitely something in this picture for you. It’s marvelous, beautiful, and has the key to unlock a very positive experience if you give it the chance to do so.
Lacoste and Disney unite for a unique collaboration which brings together Mickey & Minnie Mouse and the Crocodile who celebrate respectively their 90th and 85th anniversaries.
A novel sporting event immortalized by an exclusive souvenir capsule collection which is sure to be inspiring for adults and aspirational to young children.
Mickey Mouse, the “True Original”, and his sweetheart Minnie have inspired the brand new collection, consisting of nearly thirty different nostalgically designed items of clothing, sneakers and leather goods which are decorated with bespoke character artwork and icons.
This collection will be available from the 1st of November 2018 in the US
and from the 14th of November in all LACOSTE stores worldwide. CLICK here to purchase.
In addition to embroidery, LACOSTE innovates with 3D printing and expert piqué applications to redraw the profile of these two timeless and universal figures in a modern way. Faithful to the two worlds, the color range uses conventional shades such as navy blue, white, heather grey, pale pink and touches of green combined with brighter colors such as a clear blue or a brilliant red.
MEN
For a touch of nostalgia, Disney’s “True Original” strikes a pose on five men’s articles with a slightly retro look. Embroidered with a racket in his hand on the front of a plain or striped polo shirt, he displays his beloved personality and mischievous ways on a T-shirt as the match goes on. A hoodie reproduces the graphics of the polo shirt in outsize form on the front while Mickey’s silhouette is printed on the back. A striped sweater and a sweatshirt display the features of the Disney icon whose famous ears are adorned with a tennis headband.
WOMEN
Many fans around the world love Minnie Mouse as the true fashion icon. Elegant and dressed in a pleated skirt, she is ready to serve, embroidered on a polo shirt or printed as a silhouette on the front and back of a fleece dress. Embroideries and piqué applications combine to form her friendly face, with a peaked cap on her head, on the front of a striped sweater or a sweatshirt.
CHILDREN
Young children don’t have to miss out either, as the adult polo shirts and sweatshirts come in children’s sizes as well, with two models which are complemented by a T-shirt carrying a picture of Mickey Mouse for boys and Minnie Mouse for girls.
LEATHER GOODS
Practical and playful, a backpack printed all over with a black Mickey Mouse silhouette, a double-carry leather L.12.12 bag and two blue or red petit piqué PVC reversible tote bags are decorated with the faces of Mickey or Minnie Mouse, not forgetting small leather articles such as a men’s and women’s wallet, a round purse and a zip-up pouch which join forces with the textile line.
SNEAKERS
To complete the look, the range includes canvas sneakers in adult and children’s versions. White and decorated with a black Mickey Mouse silhouette on the heel, they come with an all-over print for young children.
A collection which combines fashion and emotion for a comfortable and stylish look back in time.
This collection will be available from the 1st of November 2018 in the US and from the 14th of November in all LACOSTE stores worldwide. CLICK here to purchase.
“Ralph Breaks the Internet” Celebrates #InternetDay with a brand-new clip, “KnowsMore.” Also, there is a new video featuring Sarah Silverman called “Happy Birthday Internet.” (see below)
First celebrated in 2005, Internet Day pays homage to the World Wide Web and its origins. Watch for a full day of fun with “Ralph Breaks the Internet,” including new content on Twitter and an international poster rollout on Disney.com and Oh My Disney. Plus, visit Disney.com today and watch it get wrecked in honor of Ralph, the ham-fisted video game bad guy loved by audiences everywhere.
Featuring the voices of John C. Reilly and Sarah Silverman as Ralph and Vanellope, and Alan Tudyk as KnowsMore, “Ralph Breaks the Internet” opens Nov. 21, 2018.
About the movie:
Video-game bad guy Ralph and best friend Vanellope leave the comforts of Litwak’s arcade in an attempt to save her game. Their quest takes them to the vast world of the internet, a world Vanellope wholeheartedly embraces—so much so that Ralph worries he may lose the only friend he’s ever had.
World of Disney is the ultimate shopping destination for all things Disney with dynamic retail experiences and a complete transformation that make shopping easier and more fun, of course with a dash of pixie dust on top.
Brent Davies is the general manager of the Downtown Disney District, in his role, he is responsible for the overall guest experience and daily operation. During a Grand Re-Opening Media preview, Davies spoke about the expansion and whats to come to the resort.
More than a year in design and development, World of Disney at the Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort is now officially open.
This grand World of Disney makeover touched every feature and function in the store as if the Fairy Godmother outfitted the store herself. From displays to signage to lighting and much, much more, the new World of Disney creates an exciting, dynamic shopping experience where the products are the stars and guests discover magical Disney storytelling wherever they look.
The transformation begins with the store’s exterior, which features new marquees and magical window displays. When guests step inside, they discover an open, loft-style atmosphere with such great visibility they may even fall in love with an item from across the room.
The merchandise also serves as décor in the new World of Disney. In one area, a giant Mickey Mouse Club ear hat beckons guests to the new Mickey Mouse Club Collection. Several spaces throughout the store will change regularly, showcasing the newest and hottest Disney offerings of the season. When new displays debut, their stunning impact will leave guests feeling as if an entire section of the store was reimagined all over again.
Complementing these displays are enchanted flourishes inspired by the history of the Walt Disney Animation Studios and the “Nine Old Men,” the legendary animators who created classic films such as “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” “Peter Pan” and “Fantasia.” For instance, ink jars suddenly swirl with color and animate artwork on the walls.
Out of nowhere, blank pages filled with pencil sketches as if drawn by an invisible hand. Magical movie posters twinkle with pixie dust before coming to life. When making purchases, eagle-eyed guests may notice the store’s sales counters are inspired by the desks and furniture used by animators of generations past.
Beyond delivering exceptional service to guests, Disney cast members play a role in this storytelling, as well; cast members will help guests discover the magical elements in the store and share insights into its pixie-dusted artwork. This commitment to placemaking makes the new World of Disney more than a retail experience – it’s truly a Disney experience.
World of Disney will regularly roll out exclusive Disney Parks merchandise, reinforcing its reputation as a must-visit shopping destination for devoted Disney fans. Unveiled earlier in October was a new Mickey Mouse Club Collection with apparel and accessories featuring a vintage Mickey Mouse from the original television show.
Also revealed with the store’s grand reopening is the Nordic-inspired Disney Parks Holiday Collection 2018, complete with Disney-themed holiday décor, ornaments, apparel and more.
World of Disney now offers guests the option to purchase new reusable bags, rather than use plastic bags. This program is part of The Walt Disney Company’s global commitment toward significant single-use plastic reduction by mid-2019. Featuring artwork of beloved Disney characters, these reusable bags are offered in three sizes for a nominal fee. Traditional plastic bags are still available upon request at no charge.
Theme park admission is not required. Select products may also be found at ShopDisney.com.
From Disney-themed Treasures and Toys to Memorable Resort Experiences, Gift-givers Will Discover Enchanting Ideas for Every Budget
Just in time for the holiday shopping season, the Disneyland Resort presents more than 150 new holiday items in shops throughout the resort. From Disney-themed treasures to magical experiences in the theme parks, hotel stays and more, there are gifts for everyone. Guests may shop at the resort on online at ShopDisney and Give the Gift of a Disneyland Vacation.
Hallmark Channel and SiriusXM are launching a new 24/7 holiday music channel, Hallmark Channel Radio, which is scheduled to launch on Thursday, November 1 in conjunction with the network’s highly popular “Countdown to Christmas” programming event.
Hallmark Channel’s 24/7 “Countdown to Christmas” initiative has become an annual holiday tradition for millions of viewers nationwide, while SiriusXM offers an extensive lineup of holiday music channels across an array of genres. This year Hallmark Channel and SiriusXM are joining forces to bring the warmth and joy of the season to listeners across the country with Hallmark Channel Radio.
SiriusXM’s Hallmark Channel Radio will keep listeners in the holiday mood all day and all night with timeless Christmas carols and music introduced by top network talent including LeAnn Rimes, Holly Robinson Peete, Lacey Chabert, Danica McKellar, Kellie Pickler, and more. Hallmark Channel stars will also open up about their personal yuletide traditions, share their own favorite songs from the season, and take listeners behind the scenes of their new “Countdown to Christmas” movies.
Voiced by one of the network’s most beloved stars, Candace Cameron-Bure, Hallmark Channel Radio will launch on Thursday, November 1 and will be accessible through December 29 via satellite on channel 70, through the SiriusXM app on smartphones and other connected devices, as well as online at siriusxm.com. Hallmark Channel’s 2018 “Countdown to Christmas” begins October 26 and will feature an unprecedented 24/7 slate of 22 all-new original holiday movies, as well as fan-favorites from years past.
SiriusXM offers people without a subscription the chance to sample SiriusXM’s content on the SiriusXM app and the streaming web player at SiriusXM.com, seamlessly and without any registration requirements. Go to https://siriusxm.us/2AVma2a to tune in.
SiriusXM subscribers are able to listen to Hallmark Channel Radio (channel 70) on SiriusXM radios, and those with streaming access can listen online, on-the-go with the SiriusXM mobile app and at home on a wide variety of connected devices including smart TVs, Amazon Alexa devices, Apple TV, PlayStation, Roku, Sonos speakers and more. Go to www.SiriusXM.com/streaming to learn more.
Send up cheers for the ears and add a classic Disney inspired accessory to your favorite space. OtterBox introduces the Den Series for Google Home Mini featuring Disney Mickey Mouse.
The first ever OtterBox Den Series is a Mickey Mouse inspired mount, available now for the Google Home Mini. Den Series will bring a smile to all Disney fan’s faces, featuring the Mickey Mouse ears and signature red Mickey pants to turn Google Home Mini into a look-alike of everyone’s favorite mouse.
“Mickey Mouse is the true original and truly an iconic Disney symbol,” said Jim Parke, OtterBox CEO. “We are excited to extend Mickey’s cheer to everyone’s home with the Den Series for Google Home Mini.”
OtterBox, the official protective case of Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort, is adding to the fun with a whole new product line: Den Series. Den Series is a mount, or base, for the Google Home Mini that leverages the OtterBox expertise in design, engineering, and manufacturing. This is a first-ever product from the No. 1-most trusted brand in smartphone case protection1.
Den Series is a perfect complement to Google Home Mini’s Disney offerings, including fun songs and games for all members of the family to enjoy. Den Series is kid-friendly, durable and easy to use. The mount offers effortless interaction with the Google Home Mini, so every “Hey, Google” will be heard loud and clear.
OtterBox Den Series for Google Home Mini featuring Disney Mickey Mouse is available now for $19.99. Learn more at otterbox.com.
For the first time, Universal Studios Hollywood offers guests a “lights on” walk-through experience of the all-new “Stranger Things” maze during the day, providing an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at how the Upside Down comes to life at “Halloween Horror Nights” from Monday, October 29 through Friday, November 2. The self-guided tour of the movie-quality sets featured in the “Stranger Things” maze is included in the price of daytime admission to the theme park.
“Halloween Horror Nights” continues select nights now through Sunday, November 4, adding one more terrifying night due to popular demand.
Working collaboratively with Netflix, along with the creators and executive producer of the blockbuster series—Matt Duffer, Ross Duffer, and Shawn Levy, the maze is an authentic representation of “Stranger Things,” designed to transport guests into artfully recreated scenes and storylines in season one. From the menacing Hawkins National Laboratory, under the U.S. Department of Energy, to the Byers home adorned with an erratic display of flashing Christmas lights and the eerie Upside Down woods oozing a shower of floating orb-like spores, guests will discover how the chilling new maze offers surprising twists and unexpected turns around every corner – in the light of day.
Each night at “Halloween Horror Nights,” the parallel universe, referred to as the Upside Down, that terrorized the small town of Hawkins, Indiana in “Stranger Things,” brings the chittering, predatory Demogorgon to stalk unwitting guests as they encounter iconic scenes, characters, and environments from the mesmerizing season one of the critically-acclaimed series.
Universal Studios’ “Halloween Horror Nights” is the ultimate Halloween event. For more than 25 years, guests from around the world have visited “Halloween Horror Nights” to become victims inside their own horror film. Multiple movie-quality mazes based on iconic horror television shows, films, and original stories come to life season after season, while the streets of each park’s event are transformed into highly-themed scare zones with menacing scare-actors lunging from every darkened corner.
For the first time ever, Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Singapore are partnering with Netflix to bring “Stranger Things” to life at this year’s “Halloween Horror Nights” events. For more information and to purchase tickets for “Halloween Horror Nights,” visit www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com.
Universal Studios Hollywood hosts its first-ever kid-friendly Halloween celebration, inviting all children 12 years of age and under to don creative costumes to Trick-or-Treat at the theme park along with some of their favorite characters on Saturday, October 27 and Sunday, October 28 from 10 am to 4 pm.
Halloween-themed characters located throughout the theme park include Hello Kitty as The Bride of Frankenstein, Illumination’s Minion Monsters, SpongeBob SquarePants and Patrick Star, Scooby Doo and the gang, Curious George, Woody Woodpecker, Dracula, Frankenstein, and The Mummy.
Other entertaining activities include a Halloween Party in the Plaza with a live DJ, music, games, and costume showcase. Also, Halloween treats decorating will be available for purchase. All children 12 years of age and under will receive a free carnival game voucher redeemable at Super Silly Fun Land, located adjacent to the “Despicable Minion Mayhem” ride or Krustyland’s Carnival Games, located adjacent to “The Simpsons™ Ride.”
The Halloween celebration is included in the price of theme park admission to Universal Studios Hollywood. A specially-designed activity map will be provided complimentary to help navigate the many memorably-ghoulish moments.
Schedule of events:
10 am – 4 pm Trick-or-Treat and Character meet and greets at select theme park locations
11 am – 2 pm Halloween Party in the Plaza
1 pm – 2 pm Costume Showcase at Universal Plaza
More information is available at www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com.
