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Gal Gadot Joins “Ralph Breaks the Internet” Voice Cast

Gal Gadot (“Justice League,” “Wonder Woman”) has revealed that she is voicing the character Shank, a tough and talented driver in an intense and gritty online racing game called Slaughter Race, in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Ralph Breaks the Internet,” which hits theaters this Thanksgiving.

Ralph and Vanellope encounter Shank and her unusual cohorts when they venture to the internet in search of a replacement part for Vanellope’s game, Sugar Rush. Shank, a tough-as-nails street racer, takes her role and her tricked-out car very seriously and doesn’t like to lose. When Vanellope finds herself in a street race with Shank, her Sugar Rush driving skills are put to the test—and Shank is impressed. “She is the coolest character in this world of Slaughter Race,” said director Rich Moore. “Shank’s lived a lot, she’s seen a lot, yet she’s got nothing but kindness in her heart—that’s the duality of that character.”

Said Gadot, “Shank is amazing at driving cars and has this bad-girl vibe to her. But as the movie goes on you realize how fun, wise and warm she really is on the inside, which is what I like most about her.”

According to director/writer Phil Johnston, Gadot adds extraordinary dimension to the character. “There’s so much texture to her voice and so much living in her voice,” he said. “If Ralph is Vanellope’s big-brother figure, we wanted a big-sister figure. We wanted someone that Vanellope would look up to, and Gal is definitely someone kids—and a lot of adults I know—aspire to emulate. I can’t imagine anyone else embodying that part.”

Shank’s approach to racing—and life in general—opens Vanellope’s eyes to the limitless possibilities of the internet and the excitement of a new world that feels like home to her. Featuring the voices of John C. Reilly as Ralph, and Sarah Silverman as Vanellope, “Ralph Breaks the Internet” opens in U.S. theaters on Nov. 21, 2018.

Disney Twenty-Three Celebrates 90 Years of Mickey Mouse

2018 is a big year for Mickey Mouse, who celebrates his 90th anniversary this year, and D23: The Official Disney Fan Club is bringing the celebration to the pages of the fall issue of Disney twenty-three. Film historian Leonard Maltin honors Mickey’s enduring optimism and youthful spirit. Celebrities and luminaries including Kurt Russell, Mark Hamill, Whoopi Goldberg, Alan Menken and Hayley Mills recall their fondest Mickey memories. The cover features the latest tribute to Mickey—his new birthday portrait, titled Spreading Magic Around the World, painted by legendary Walt Disney Animation Studios animator Mark Henn—and Walt Disney Archives director Becky Cline looks at the long-standing tradition of Mickey portraits over the decades.

Actress and fashion designer Ashley Eckstein pays tribute to Minnie Mouse—who is also celebrating 90 years of stardom—by spotlighting Minnie’s enduring place as a role model and fashion icon. And Disney twenty-three goes behind the scenes on the making of the new Disney Channel Original Movie Freaky Friday, for exclusive interviews with stars Heidi Blickenstaff and Cozi Zuehlsdorff.

Plus, D23 is kicking off its annual Fanniversary honoring two beloved films celebrating their 25th anniversary: Hocus Pocus and Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas. Director Kenny Ortega talks about the making of Hocus Pocus and all of the on-set excitement working with Bette Midler, Kathy Najimy, and Sarah Jessica Parker. This month’s “Character Analysis” examines the frightfully fun denizens of Nightmare, along with a first look at the new Nightmare-themed gingerbread house coming to Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion Holiday attraction overlay this year. For more Fanniversary fun, visit D23.com/Fanniversary beginning October 1.

Also included in the fall issue of Disney twenty-three:

  • Animation historian Fox Carney dives into the vaults of the Animation Research Library to show off stunning paintings and drawings from Mickey’s rich history
  • From the Desk of: Mickey’s portrait painter Mark Henn
  • A preview of The Nutcracker and the Four Realms
  • An advance look at the new Disney Channel series Star Wars Resistance
  • Regular features including D Society and Ask Dave

Disney twenty-three, which is delivered directly to fans’ doorsteps, is offered exclusively to D23 Gold and Gold Family Members as a benefit of their membership. The latest issue will begin arriving in mid-August.

Disneyland Resort Gives Guests a Treat to Celebrate Halloween Time

Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort returns for more spook-tacular days than ever this year, enchanting guests of all ages with frightfully fun experiences themed especially for the season, from Sept. 7 through October 31, 2018. Ready to have some fun? Click Request A quote button below for a FREE Vacation Quote from World of Magic Travel. Let us help make your trip a magical experience! (Make sure to select Socalthrills.com in the Referral drop down.)

Celebrate

Eerie encounters and fiendish fun await guests at both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park as favorite experiences are transformed into dreadful delights. With seasonal attraction overlays, Halloween-themed décor and food and beverage offerings, plus encounters with dastardly Disney villains, happy haunts will materialize around every corner. New this year is the popular character Vampirina, from the Disney Channel and Disney Junior hit series for kids and families, “Vampirina.” Also known as “Vee,” Vampirina arrives at Disneyland Resort for the first time ever, just in time for the Halloween season. Guests will have the opportunity to meet Vampirina at Disney California Adventure Park starting September 7. She will also make a special appearance during the “Frightfully Fun Parade” at Mickey’s Halloween Party.

The guest-favorite Mickey’s Halloween Party* returns with select nights of after-hours fun. This separate-ticket event features some exclusive entertainment, Disney characters in their Halloween attire, trick or treating at locations throughout Disneyland Park and a chance for the entire family to visit the parks after hours in costumes.

At Disney California Adventure Park

A spell will be cast as guests enter Disney California Adventure park to celebrate the season. Oogie Boogie takes over with his twisted tale of a forever Halloween, inspired by “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.” Oogie Boogie’s oversized silhouette will beckon guests through the main entrance of the park, and hover over a swarm of bats that circle around Carthay Circle Restaurant and Lounge.

Celebrate

Halloween décor extends along Buena Vista Street to Carthay Circle, where guests will encounter a 10-foot-tall statue of the Headless Horseman holding his jack-o-lantern head to the sky.

The citizens of Cars Land celebrate Halloween by turning Radiator Springs into Radiator Screams. The entire land is transformed with a special Haul-O-Ween makeover as the townsfolk of Radiator Springs don Halloween costumes and decorate their respective homes for the season.

Guests will encounter Lightning McQueen, Mater, Cruz, Red and DJ in “car-stume” as they get ready to go “trunk-or-treating.” Popular Cars Land attractions transform as well: Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree takes on a spooky tone as Mater’s Graveyard JamBOOree, and Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters gets a seasonal twist to become Luigi’s Honkin’ Haul-O-Ween.

Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! transforms nightly into Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark, bringing Halloween adventure to this popular attraction. As the sun sets, the attraction’s exterior goes dark and then suddenly powers back up with lighting effects, a signal that something has gone awry. The Guardians have successfully escaped The Collector’s Fortress, but have accidentally left Groot behind. Guests help Rocket distract the creatures that have been released so he can rescue Groot in this exciting seasonal overlay.

Disney Junior Star Vampirina Joins the Halloween Celebration for the First Time Ever at Disney Parks

At Disneyland Park

The Halloween magic continues at Disneyland park, where guests will enjoy beautiful décor on Main Street, U.S.A., including a giant Mickey Mouse jack-o’-lantern and a Pumpkin Festival.

Celebrate

Two popular attractions transform into their annual Halloween themes, delivering Halloween thrills for guests who dare to take a ride. Haunted Mansion becomes Haunted Mansion Holiday, inspired by the Walt Disney Pictures classic “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.” The seasonal attraction celebrates the collision between Halloween and Christmas as Jack Skellington offers his unique take on the holidays.

Space Mountain in Tomorrowland becomes Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy, a reimagining of the popular attraction. Guests on board the speeding Space Mountain vehicles are thrust into a ghostly galaxy where they are surrounded by eerie screams, sound effects and music. Spine-chilling spirits pop out of the darkness, appearing to reach out and menace the space travelers.

Additionally, to commemorate the Mexican holiday of Day of the Dead, guests will encounter the colorful Día de los Muertos tribute in Frontierland, an exhibit that features a musical trio of iconic skeleton figurines, brightly colored flowers and other decorative items.

Mickey’s Halloween Party*

Mickey’s Halloween Party is an after-hours, separate-ticket event, where guests may dress in costume and have the opportunity to trick-or-treat throughout Disneyland Park for candy and healthy goodies. Mickey’s Halloween Party also includes special entertainment, classic attractions and the added bonus of unlimited Disney PhotoPass digital downloads of photos taken during the event**, making it easier than ever to capture memories during the party.

An exclusive treat for guests attending Mickey’s Halloween Party is “Halloween Screams,” a supernatural firework show. The nighttime spectacular is hosted by “Master of Scare-omonies,” Jack Skellington.

Also exclusive to Mickey’s Halloween Party is the “Frightfully Fun Parade” led by The Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow (from the Disney animated classic, “The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad”). The Horseman rides down Main Street, U.S.A., on his ghostly black steed with a flickering jack-o’-lantern to usher in the parade, which features Vampirina, Jack Skellington and a procession of grim, grinning (and hitchhiking) ghosts from the iconic Haunted Mansion attraction.

Guests attending Mickey’s Halloween Party may also visit Villains Square for a chance to encounter and take photos with Disney villains. Additional Disney characters donned in Halloween attire can also be found throughout the park.

As an added value, guests with a Mickey’s Halloween Party ticket will have the opportunity to “mix in” with regular park guests for three hours prior to the party’s start time. These guests also may visit both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure parks with their tickets.

Mickey’s Halloween Party tickets may be purchased online and on mobile devices at Disneyland.com/party as well as at the Disneyland Resort main gate and by phone at 714-781-4400. Some nights may be sold out and guests may check availability at Disneyland.com/party. Online and mobile purchases are not available the day of the event. Parking is not included in the ticket price, and parking fees will apply. Mickey’s Halloween Party is a non-smoking event.

For more information about Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort, please visit  http://www.Disneyland.com/Halloween. Entertainment and attractions are subject to change without notice.

It’s Time for Tantalizing Ticino, Switzerland

Ticino is where Italian is spoken and pristine valleys, panoramic mountaintops and picturesque lakes abound (photo courtesy of www.myswitzerland.com)

I’ve been to the German and French speaking regions of Switzerland, but I have yet to visit the Southern part of the country, near the Alps and the border of Italy, where Italian is spoken and a Mediterranean climate yields lush gardens, fine wines and a delicious variety of cuisine.

Located on the southern side of the Alps, Ticino is where Switzerland and Italy meet and meld, and the landscape features pristine valleys, panoramic mountaintops, picturesque lakes and colorful people.

As I plan my visit to the Ticino Canton this fall, I would like to look at some of the things to do and see during the season.

With nearly 2,500 miles of footpaths and a variety of excursions, Ticino is known as the greenest corner of Switzerland. With this in mind, I want to do some exploring on foot, and possibly stay in an Alpine hut, overlooking mountains and valleys.

A trek that caught my eye is Lukmanier Pass to Cadlimo Hut. The historic Lukmanier Pass is the perfect starting point for those wanting to explore the heart of the Swiss Alps. One of the most scenic walks makes its way up from the shores of Lake Santa Maria to the Cadlimo hut, situated about 8,400 ft above sea level.

The walk begins across the Termine valley to the Ritom district, where it transitions rapidly up a mountainside. The route then winds its way by the River Rein da Medel, a headwater of the Rhine whose waters travel more than 750 miles until meeting the North Sea.

About halfway along the route the journey comes to Stabbio Nuovo, where walkers might encounter a herdsman with his dogs and herds of yaks. These large yet docile creatures, also known as Tibetan oxen, dot the landscape, giving it an exotic and unusual appearance. During the final stretch of the climb, at more than 7,800 ft above sea level, the landscape becomes rocky and full of sure-footed ibexes.

Another location in Ticino I want to visit is Ascona, Switzerland’s lowest lying town. Located about 640 ft above sea level on the northern shore of Lago Maggiore, Ascona is famous for its mild, Mediterranean climate, its Old Town and a lake promenade which is dotted with street cafés and colorful fishing village scenes.

The ancient city of Ascona is replete with medieval and Renaissance history, highlighted by narrow alleys leading to piazzas. A landmark in town is the church of San Pietro e Paolo, located in Borgo,Ascona’s old town center. The church is a basilica dating back to the 16th century and features distinctive columns and a high bell tower that can be seen across Ascona. The main Lake Promenade in town is car-free and teaming with charming street cafés.

In fall, Ascona welcomes the annual Chestnut Festival, where visitors can taste over 4,400 pounds of chestnuts roasted on the fire by locals. There will also be various chestnut-based delicacies such as jams, honeys and cakes, and a host of the region’s traditional food and wine products. The festival takes place this October.

And then there is Lugano, the largest town in the holiday region of Ticino. It is not only Switzerland’s third most important financial centre; it is also a town of parks and flowers, villas and sacred buildings. With Mediterranean flair, Lugano offers all the advantages of a world-class city, yet still has lots of small town, old world charm.

Lugano lies in a bay on the northern side of Lake Lugano, surrounded by mountains. It boasts a car-free historic town centre, stunning, Italianate Lombardy-styled architecture, museums, and lake-front activities. By the lakeside promenade are the Belvedere Gardens, where the parkland boasts not only camellias and magnolias but also countless sub-tropical plants and modern works of art. 

The two closest mountains to Lugano, Monte San Salvatore and Monte Brè, offer a memorable panorama of town, Lake Lugano and the alpine scenery. While in town, I want to take a boat trip to the fishing village of Gandria. Set at the foot of Monte Brè, on the shores of Lake Lugano, Gandria has remained unchanged for about 100 years and features the popular Swiss Customs and Smuggler Museum.

For more information visiting Switzerland and the Ticino region, visit: www.myswitzerland.com or www.ticino.ch. For information on flying to Switzerland, visit: www.swiss.com

CHRISTOPHER ROBIN Movie Review

“Doing Nothing often leads to the very best Something!”

Disney’s Christopher Robin in the simplest of terms is an instant classic, bringing you right back to the magic that started it all with the original Winnie the Pooh stories by A.A Milne. The film is nothing short of spectacular, jam packed with everything you could want from a Pooh picture while still finding a way to add the necessary mature undertones that bring a new found relevance to today’s fast paced society.

It all boils down to something so simple, yet profound: Do Nothing. To explain, the film’s message is all about taking a step back and finding the joy in even the smallest of moments. Time is precious, and we could all use an escape from the easily laid traps that come with overwhelming responsibility, selfishness, and stressful undertakings. The movie’s tale isn’t preaching at you to shirk away from your obligations, but instead offers a very sobering reminder that we all have limits. Life is meant to be lived with an element of fun and simplicity. Christopher Robin goes back to basics, and in today’s day in age, it’s important that we do the same.

From start to finish, there are so many adorable moments. You can see from the teaser trailers and featured sneak peeks, this is a feel good movie for all ages. There will be plenty of laughs in store, as this is the first time we see the world of the Hundred-Acre Wood jump out into the real world. Yet, don’t be fooled. This film has a heavy weight on its shoulders, as there is a deeper emotional connection that will make you gasp and possibly shed a few tears. Some of the best moments from the picture come from the deep scenes that play out. It hits you like a ton of bricks, because you wouldn’t expect that from a Winnie the Pooh film. It’s fully immersive and inclusive for all involved.

Celebrate

Children will get the same joy and excitement from all the antics and comedy while adults will get their chance to participate in a fully fleshed out narrative. The film matures with the audience, creating a timeless element that transcends into something truly magical. Good story aside, nothing stands out more than the rock steady performances given by all involved with this project. This star studded cast really uses every ounce of talent to bring it all together, lead by the legendary Jim Cummings.

Though Cummings has worked on so many projects for Disney over the years, Pooh has always been a staple. The man and the bear are one. Cummings really brought everything he had into this performance, and it is very safe to say this is one of his absolute best. He pulls on every heartstring, makes you grin until your cheeks hurt, and does it with such grace. It’s such a beautiful thing, as he has said himself. Not a single person can walk out of the theater with a negative thing to say because Jim Cummings is in a class all his own.

Ewan McGregor brings his “A-Game” as Christopher Robin, making the character his own with relative ease. Hayley Atwell, though limited in screen time, also does a tremendous job in her supporting role. It would be great if we had more time to contribute to her character, but given the nature of the film, it’s not surprising she doesn’t get more to work with. Let’s also not forget Bronte Carmichael, who also provides a solid and adorable performance. Though The real magic comes from our furry companions, as Brad Garrett, Nick Mohammed, Peter Capaldi and company stay true to what makes Winnie the Pooh such an enduring franchise. It all comes together so splendidly.

Christopher Robin hits the mark, making you eager to go back and experience it all over again. This is a film that would make Walt Disney proud, being a perfect way to end the summer. Make sure to experience it on the silver screen, though please bring a box or two of tissues and possibly a jar of honey for a quick snack.

Lego Movie characters give us the best in-flight safety video

Are you ready for the safety video with the smallest cast ever assembled? Fasten your seatbelt & enjoy safety.

The LEGO Movie characters are here to give us the best in-flight safety video of all time!

The video includes an ALL STAR CAST:

  • The Lego Batman Movie’s Dark Knight (Will Arnett)
  • Robin (Michael Cena)
  • Joker (Zach Galifianakis)
  • The Lego Ninjago Movie’s Lloyd Garmadon (Dave Franco).
  • Princess Unikitty (Alison Brie)
  • Superman
  • Wonder Woman
  • Green Lanter
  • the Flash
  • Benny, the astronaut
  • Metalbeard, the pirate

Disney’s Jungle Cruise Now Underway

Emily Blunt and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson have some big news, as Disney’s Jungle Cruise has now begun production. Disney shared the details this week, giving us a special sneak peek of what’s to come next fall. Take a look at the video below, which brings you on set with the two Stars as they prepare to venture off into the unknown wilds of the jungle!

Johnson tweeted, “Join us for the adventure of a lifetime. And I love working with this woman.. and I she loves working with me. I think.” Jungle Cruise joins Star Wars Episode IX in their shooting announcement, while other productions such as Maleficent II are now underway. 2019 is a busy year for Disney, which will add to the many films still to come out later this year including this August’s Christopher Robin. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for more details!

JJ Abrams Gives Fans a Glimpse of Star Wars Episode IX

JJ Abrams has shared the very first look at Star Wars Episode IX, giving fans confirmation that shooting has indeed commenced at Pinewood Studios as promised. With the Tweet, you can see a quick look at John Boyega, vaguely verifying Finn back in action for the next Star Wars sequel.

The tweet also pays tribute to the late Carrie Fisher, who will be returning as Princess Leia one final time. The news broke recently when Lucasfilm released the entire cast list for the new movie, which also includes the return of Mark Hamill and Billy Dee Williams. You can see the entire list by clicking here. To learn more about this week’s reveals, as well as more details about the upcoming resurgence of Star Wars: The Clone Wars, make sure to watch this week’s edition of The Star Wars Show.

Stay tuned, as more details are to come! Star Wars Episode IX lands in theaters next December.

Disney’s Christopher Robin Book Review

It’s time to revisit the Hundred-Acre Wood!

With the release of Disney’s Christopher Robin, Disney Press has debuted two books in honor of the new film. Both share in the story for the new adventure while still retaining their own unique elements. The books also target a wider base of age ranges, as one focuses in on the youngest of us while the other casts a wider net for both young and the young at heart.

The first of the bunch is a children’s book, titled ‘A Boy, A Bear, Balloon’. Filled with wonderful illustrations, it’s a perfect glimpse into the larger story of Christopher Robin. Rather than take on the entire narrative, the book condenses the tale into a small smackerel of adventure. The message of the narrative is still there, while the magic of Pooh shines through into a sweet story worthy of a comforting bedtime story for both young and old.

To get the full picture, we turn to the novelization of Christopher Robin. The book follows the film’s story almost to the letter, bringing us right into the new turn of events for both Pooh and his friends. Though, like any good novelization, it fills in the gaps, allowing us to see more than the film can with inner dialogues, flashbacks, and more.

The writing style is simple, easily leading you from one chapter to another with relative ease. It’s a quick read, and for the hardcore fan, something you can pick up and finish in one sitting, coming in at just over 280 pages. The book does the film and the Winnie the Pooh legacy justice. Though, you can learn more about our opinions on the film by reading our full film review, which will go into more details on the overall plot and execution.

Celebrate

Due to that, it is highly recommended that you see the film first if you want to avoid any spoilers with either book. The plot is clearly laid out, but if you find yourself a fan of the film, both books are excellent companions to add to your collection. Your heart will be warmed, as Pooh and the entire band of friends from the Hundred-Acre Wood do exactly what they need to do and nothing more. Plain and simple fun in a time where we all could use a reminder to slow down and enjoy the little joys in life.

Disney’s Christopher Robin releases nationwide on August 3rd.

Space Mountain Receives New Indoor Queue

Space Mountain is undoubtedly one of Disneyland’s most popular attractions, taking countless numbers of space travelers to the great unknown each and every day. Yet, during peak hours, the fun and thrill of blasting off into space can take a little bit longer than expected due to high wait times and extremely long lines. When summer is at its hottest, not using Fastpass or Maxpass is a challenge on its own. Yet, standby is about to get a lot more comfortable. Space Mountain has a new queue, bringing a cool respite from the hot Southern California sun.

The new queue takes the place of the old Tomorrowland staple, Starcade, bringing in a full indoor queue that features air conditioning, area music, and new visuals. It’s quite something to behold, really bringing the wonders of space travel up close and personal. A new craft is the center piece of the queue, surrounded by space cluster visuals and light effects. Make sure to take a closer look the next time you find yourself preparing for launch!

More info on Space Mountain: https://disneyland.disney.go.com/attractions/disneyland/space-mountain/

Visiting Disneyland’s Pooh Corner

Disney’s Christopher Robin is just days away, and to celebrate, we journeyed down to Pooh Corner at the Disneyland Resort. Nestled in the heart of Critter Country, Pooh and his friends have a special hiding place for sweet treats, cute merchandise, and one of a kind meet and greets.

Maybe just a taste of hunny please?
Maybe just a taste of hunny please?

For those who have yet to trek beyond Splash Mountain, there are a plenty of surprises waiting around the the honey tree. Pooh Corner is home to exclusive candies and treats, all focused around the Hundred Acre Wood’s most valued snack, honey! Take a look at some of the delectable exclusive staples below.

Pooh's favorite candy apple, featuring bees and plenty of honey!
Pooh’s favorite candy apple, featuring bees and plenty of honey!

Bounce off the walls for these special Tigger Tail Marshmallow Wand.
Bounce off the walls for these special Tigger Tail Marshmallow Wand.

There's another sticky sweet treat awaiting you with this special honey pot themed rice crispy treat!
There’s another sticky sweet treat awaiting you with this special honey pot themed rice crispy treat!

The location also walks you through some of the most recognizable moments of the Pooh story, featuring banners, balloons, and other elements pulled directly from both the films and the Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh attraction. Merchandise can be found on both sides of the store, which currently includes the hard to get Christopher Robin themed plush series. The set is in limited supply and could run out at any moment. Make sure to venture out and see what fun you can have during your next visit!

Pooh is very popular, selling out in record pace. There aren't many left, so make sure to grab yours today!
Pooh is very popular, selling out in record pace. There aren’t many left, so make sure to grab yours today!

You can check out the latest sneak peek of Christopher Robin by clicking here. The film debuts on August 3rd, staring Jim Cummings, Ewan McGregor, and Hayley Atwell. Make sure to stay tuned for our spoiler free review, which will be available closer to the release of the film. Until then, make sure to bounce on over and enjoy your own adventure at Pooh Corner. Pooh and his friends will be available for meet and greet opportunities, so don’t miss out on your chance to join in the fun!

The Journey to Star Wars Episode IX Begins

J.J Abrams will be returning to a galaxy far, far away faster than the Falcon can make the Kessel Run, as filming for Star Wars: Episode IX has been revealed to begin on August 1st at London’s Pinewood Studios. Abrams penned the screenplay for the final installment of the Skywalker Saga with the help of Chris Terrio.

The cast will bring back Daisy Ridley as Rey, Adam Driver as Kylo Ren, John Boyega as Finn amonst other favorites such as Oscar Isaac, Lupita Nyong’o, Domhall Gleeson, Kelly Marie Tran, Billie Lourd, and Joonas Suotamo as Chewbacca. Naomi Ackie will be joining the seasoned cast along with Richard E. Grant. To fan acclaim, Mark Hamill will be returning along with Anthony Daniels and Billy Dee Williams as the suave and classy Lando Calrissian.

Leia will also live on, as the crew will be using previously unreleased footage of Carrier from Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens. “We desperately loved Carrie Fisher,” says Abrams. “Finding a truly satisfying conclusion to the Skywalker saga without her eluded us. We were never going to recast, or use a CG character. With the support and blessing from her daughter, Billie, we have found a way to honor Carrie’s legacy and role as Leia in Episode IX by using unseen footage we shot together in Episode VII.”

The legendary composer, John Williams, will be returning to score the film, bringing the Skywalker story to a close. Star Wars: Episode IX will be produced by Kathleen Kennedy, J.J. Abrams, and Michelle Rejwan, and executive produced by Callum Greene and Jason McGatlin. The crew includes Dan Mindel (Director of Photography), Rick Carter and Kevin Jenkins (Co-Production Designers), Michael Kaplan (Costume Designer), Neal Scanlan (Creature and Droid FX), Maryann Brandon and Stefan Grube (Editors), Roger Guyett (VFX Supervisor), Tommy Gormley (1st AD), and Victoria Mahoney (2nd Unit Director).

The film will blast onto the big screen in December of 2019. No further details have been provided for other projects, such as Rian Johnson’s untitled Star Wars trilogy. Though fans did get the opportunity to learn about the revival of the popular animated series, Star Wars: The Clone Wars. The series was announced to return at this year’s San Diego Comic Con in honor of the show’s 10th anniversary.

Stay tuned for more details and may the Force be with you!

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