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New Spellbinding Experiences at “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” at Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood has the exciting and immersive Wizarding World of Harry Potter for guests to experience.  Debuting this summer are new experiences that will enhance guests visit even more!

New Wand Magic

By purchasing a special wand, wizards of all ages can cast spells throughout Hogsmeade village.  Where there have been 13 locations of spell casting, two new locations bring it up to 15.  Incendio and Alohomora are located next to each other near the Hogwarts Express station.  Incendio ignites a chimney when the wand wielder casts the spell successfully.  Alohomora may reveal the breath of a creature that breathes fire through a door that has an intricate lock.  Other spells are located by markers on the ground.  Alohomora is indicated by this, but Incendio is a secret location.

More Butterbeer Treats

There are several butterbeer items to satisfy tastes of Hogsmeade visitors.  Butterbeer fudge has a good butterbeer flavor, with a bit of shortbread too.  The potted cream version is a very creamy treat that is like pudding.  Three butterbeer drinks are available (all non-alcoholic).  “Cold” is like a butterbeer cider, while the “frozen” is best for the summer.  Both have the great butterbeer taste, though the frozen is stronger than the cold.  The best, in my opinion, is the “hot” version which is like drinking liquid butterscotch!

New to Universal Studios in the US is Butterbeer Ice Cream.  The Orlando resort has served a soft serve version for a while, but Hollywood is the first to have hand packed ice cream.  The treat is available at various carts in the village and at Three Broomsticks.  It is a great addition to the butterbeer lineup.  It has a good mix of vanilla and butterbeer flavor.  It is a good form for it, especially for the hot summer weather.  It’s a good way to savor butterbeer.

New Way to Look Like a Wizard

At Gladrags Wizardwear there are new replica costumes to purchase and wear.  Severus Snape’s complete robe is available for a more authentic professor look.  Hermonione’s dress from the Yule Ball in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire will let the wearer look ready for a formal party.  It is available in adult and children’s size.  Neville Longbottom’s cardigan from the Battle of Hogwarts can be purchased now too.  These three are in addition to other robes, cardigans, scarves, and many other attire that fans can put on for that complete Harry Potter experience.

In between Gladrags and Dervish and Banges is Madam Malkin’s Talking Mirror.  This new enhancement entertains those passing through the shops inside along the corridor.  She gives various compliments fit for whoever is passing by.

Expanded Three Broomsticks Menu

At lunch, Three Broomsticks is serving new items to eat.  Ploughman’s Lunch features an imported selection of ham, salami, country pâté, cheese, and a warm scotch egg accompanied by bread, cranberry chutney and grain mustard.  Cheese Toastie with Chicken has English cheddar cheese, chicken, bacon and served with a sunny side egg.  It comes with a salad or potato wedges.  Sunday Roast Sandwich features prime rib on a baguette with English cheddar and horseradish sauce.  It also comes with either a salad or potato wedges.

All of these experiences join a large selection of attractions just within Wizarding World.  Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey now has 4K projection.  Flight of the Hippogriff is a great family roller coaster.  And, at night, “The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle” illuminates the outside of the structure set to John Williams composed score.  It is a great time to visit Universal Studios Hollywood as some things, like the Nighttime Lights, are available for a limited time!

The Legacy of Disney’s Christoper Robin

A magical journey of adorable proportions is just around the corner, as Disney’s Christopher Robin prepares for a debut like no other. Tickets are now available and to celebrate the occasion, Disney has released a special featurette discussing the legacy of Pooh and his friends with costars Ewan McGregor, Hayley Atwell, and Director Marc Forster.

The film follows Christopher Robin, played by Ewan McGregor, who loses his way in the trials and stresses of adulthood. It is up to Pooh and his friends from the 100 Acre Wood to remind him of the importance of friendship, family, and fun. Christopher Robin is directed by Marc Forster from a screenplay by Alex Ross Perry and Allison Schroeder and a story by Perry based on characters created by A.A. Milne and E.H. Shepard. The producers are Brigham Taylor and Kristin Burr, with Renée Wolfe and Jeremy Johns serving as executive producers.

Christopher Robin (Ewan McGregor) and his longtime friend Winnie the Pooh in Disney’s CHRISTOPHER ROBIN.

The film stars Ewan McGregor as Christopher Robin; Hayley Atwell as his wife Evelyn; Bronte Carmichael as his daughter Madeline; and Mark Gatiss as Keith Winslow, Robin’s boss. The film also features the voices of: Jim Cummings as Winnie the Pooh and Tigger; Brad Garrett as Eeyore; Toby Jones as Owl; Nick Mohammed as Piglet; Peter Capaldi as Rabbit; and Sophie Okonedo as Kanga.

Tickets can be purchased through Fandango. For SoCal locals, the El Capitan Theatre will also be hosting an opening night fan event, which you can learn more about through the venue’s official site. Grab your tickets today!

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

BLACK LIGHTNING SEASON 1: Blu-Ray Review

“It’s about the struggle”

Black Lightning has taken the CW by storm, bringing in a unique and fresh look at the world of super heroes. The show is a breakaway from the norm of the Arrowverse, being a standalone series focusing on the family of Jefferson Pierce. The series itself is raw, real, and a constant struggle between being true to yourself and protecting the common good.

https://youtu.be/qp-ZnwhSp5I

Pierce, played by Cress Williams, is the principal of his local high school, being a symbol of strength and peace for the African American community. Yet, very few know a deep secret that he has been struggling with for almost a decade. Nine years prior, Pierce took to the streets as the legendary vigilante, Black Lightning. With incredible strength and the ability to harness the power of electricity, Black Lightning helped take down some of the city’s darkest agents, but at a steep personal cost. Despite all his hard work, things are now worse than ever, as crime surges and consumes the community. Pierce will have to take up the mantle of Black Lightning once again, hoping to find peace for not only his city, but also his family.

The series is a pillar of diversity, taking us beyond the generic super hero story and into the life of an African American centric community. Having that representation creates a unique perspective that is definitely worth exploring. It’s all blended together with strong character development and story, bringing viewers right into the personal struggle and drama that Black Lightning must overcome. Everything revolves around family and what it means to stand up for what you believe in. That’s a message that everyone can relate to, regardless of background, which is key to how this series ticks.

https://youtu.be/VzZG7sKLwis

The series set comes with a handful of features, including a huge assortment of deleted scenes. For those wanting to dive right in, the majority of the features can be found on the second disc, including two short featurettes discussing the core themes behind the show. The first, titled “Art Imitating Life: The Pilot Episode”, focuses on what the creative team was trying to achieve with opening up the world of Black Lightning to the audience. It’s an up close look at what to look for in that first episode, bringing you right into the creative process.

The second feature, titled “A Family of Strength” brings you an in depth conversation of what it means to be a part of the Pierce family. Pierce will find that he’s not alone in his battle, as both his daughters are learning their own abilities and powers. As the series progresses, the connections and bonds they all share grow, and the featurette really brings it all front and center. Viewers will also be able to view the show’s debut Comic Con Panel, which is sure to be exciting leading into development for this year’s big event.

You can see the full features list below!

  • Black Lightning Comic-Con panel
  • A Family of Strength
  • Black Lightning Come Visit Georgia
  • Gag Reel
  • Deleted Scenes

Includes all 13 One Hour Episodes!

1.      The Resurrection

2.      LaWanda: The Book of Hope

3.      LaWanda: The Book of Burial

4.      Black Jesus

5.      And Then the Devil Brought the Plague: The Book of Green Light

6.      Three Sevens: The Book of Thunder

7.      Equinox: The Book of Fate

8.      The Book of Revelation

9.      The Book of Little Black Lies

10.   Sins of the Father: The Book of Redemption

11.   Black Jesus: The Book of Crucifixion

12.   The Resurrection and the Light: The Book of Pain

13.   Shadow of Death: The Book of War

Black Lightning: The Complete First Season is now available in both DVD and Blu-Ray formats and can be purchased through most major retailers such as Best Buy, Target, and Amazon. You can learn more about the series by visiting the show’s official site!

Cruising, Climbing and Crawling in a new 2018 Jeep Wrangler

Few words inspire adventure and travel like Jeep. From its inception in the early 1940s, this first-of-its-kind off-road vehicle took soldiers to battle and civilians to thrilling, hard-to-reach destinations. In the process it became a legend.

So when I got a chance to test drive a new, 2018 Wrangler JL Sport for a week I jumped at the chance.

My getaway began when I picked up the keys to a shiny, black 2-door. The new JL model replaces the outgoing JK and is designed to celebrate Jeep’s off-road history, while improving comfort and on-road driving.

“Jeep has always represented the ultimate in capability and open-air freedom, and our all-new 2018 Wrangler protects that important legacy and takes it into the future,” said Mike Manley, Head of Jeep Brand – FCA Global.  “The all-new Wrangler is instantly recognizable as a Jeep, staying true to the original, yet it is better in every way – delivering even more rugged capability, more ride comfort, more fuel efficiency courtesy of several advanced powertrain options, more interior comfort, more safety and more technology.”

The new 2018 Jeep Wrangler is an off-road dream and a fun suburban adventure (photo – jeep.com)

New on 2018 models, the front windshield and grill are slightly more slanted for aerodynamics, the square backlights are set in, and there are air extractors behind the front fender flares to help cool the engine.

The Jeep Brand badge has been moved from the hood back to the side of the aluminum fender – a look reminiscent of past models. Add to this a set of 17-Inch, polished granite crystal wheels, side steps for easy entry, and a slick black soft top with tinted windows and the rugged, luxurious beast I was driving was looking pretty awesome.

After a quick walk-around, I opened the power doors, hoped in the driver seat and pushed the start button. That’s right; the new Wrangler has a push button start, which is something new to me. I then headed for Azusa Canyon in the San Gabriel Mountains.

Along the way, I cranked up the impressive Alpine Premium Audio System, with nine speakers, including a waterproof rear subwoofer, on the floor near the tailgate. The stereo is part of the Wrangler’s new Uconnect 4 media system, that comes with a 7-inch touch screen, featuring AM/FM radio, available SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth Streaming Audio, Voice Command, Hands-Free Calling, Apple Carplay and Android Auto. The touch screen also doubles as a rear back-up camera when the Jeep is in reverse.

The JL is a Jeep dream to drive. It’s like a mix between a truck, a sports car and a little tank. Mine was powered by the efficient 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine, with Engine Stop/Start (ESS) Technology that produces 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. ESS automatically shuts the engine off at full stops, then re-engages for takeoff. The technology is engineered to help deliver an efficient performance, and can be disabled with the push of a button.

The new JL Wrangler comes in lots of fun colors and myriad options (photo-jeep.com)

The Wrangler also came with a new eight-speed automatic transmission specifically calibrated to optimize shift points and deliver maximum torque to all four wheels. The vehicle gets about 17 city/23 hwy mpg.

When I got in the mountains I pulled into Camp Williams Café and General Store for lunch and to turn the soft top into a bikini top. This brings up another new innovation on the Wrangler. There are no more zippers to mess with. To take off the windows, you simple peel back the Velcro and pull the windows from the slots they are in. This is a big plus.

My next stop was the San Gabriel Canyon Off-Highway Vehicle Area. With more than 160 acres of rocky, sandy, river bottom to climb and play in, this was a great place to test the JL’s new four-wheel drive system. “The Command-Trac Part-Time 4×4 System with the NV241 GII transfer case offers legendary off-road capability and helps you conquer obstacles and tackle slick conditions,” says Jeep.

Other cool new features of the 2018 Wrangler include a front windshield that easily folds down; lightweight, high-strength aluminum doors, hinges, hood, fenders and windshield frame; a magnesium swing gate; and the ability to drive through up to 30 inches of water.

For more information on the new Wrangler JL and other Jeep vehicles, visit: www.jeep.com

The Costumes of Ant-Man and the Wasp

It’s time to suit up!

Here’s an up close look at the costumes used for the upcoming Marvel Studios release, Ant-Man and the Wasp. Launching into the sequel, Scott gets a new suit, still retaining the classic look of the original Ant-Man suit. Whether or not the suit comes with any new abilities will be determined when the film debuts.

Meanwhile, we get our first look at Hope’s new suit as the Wasp. Just like the character, it’s kickass, providing a powerful look that fits perfectly for the Marvel Universe. With both suits on display, there are plenty of images to provide the up close costuming work and detail of both outfits. Take a look at the full gallery below! You can also check out our film review by clicking here!

Ant-Man and the Wasp releases on July 6th.

 

Holy, Hollywood Museum Exhibit Batman!

Set your Bat-Sights on the Hollywood Museum as they showcase their latest exhibit “Batman ’66”.  The limited time event celebrates all manners and tributes of the classic Batman 1966 television series starring the late Adam West as Batman/Bruce Wayne, respectively, and his sidekick Robin, played by Burt Ward.

Of course, the spotlight is stolen by none other than the Rogues Gallery of classic villains. On display are replica set pieces, costumes, props, vehicles, and memorabilia based on the popular television series.

Don’t miss your chance to relive the magic and start your sentences with “holy” to your heart’s content. The Hollywood Museum has extended the exhibit’s run by popular demand thru July 29.

Visit http://thehollywoodmuseum.com for more details.

Quick, to the Batmobile!

Jurassic World Erupts in 4DX Immersive Theaters!

Imagine, if you will, you are seated in a dark movie theater about to watch the latest blockbuster on the big screen in your local cinema; however, you are about to experience it in a way you never thought possible. Your seats would move in sync with every punch, car crash, and action sequence. Your surroundings would adapt to the action on screen, every part of the experience coming at you with everything it has. Welcome to 4DX!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lu4M5SL6Em4

At first glance, you may think this is just a theme park gimmick, but it can be much more than that. The special effects around the audience is designed to enhance the movie-going experience and not so much a distraction.  You can feel like a character in the movie world; feel the roar of King Kong, sail across the Caribbean, race inside a DeLorean time machine, fly the Millennium Falcon, survive an aircraft turbulence, or even tremble at the footsteps of an approaching dinosaur.

Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom is the latest summer blockbuster to receive the 4DX treatment. The motion seats will not only vibrate, but it will roll left and right, heave up and down, and pitch back and forth.  For the premium experience, you can also get leg ticklers, back knockers, and air blasts by your head. Environmental effects will have air blasts to your face, water effects, sensory smells, falling snow, misty fog, gusts of wind, and strobe lights complete the immersive checklist.

4DX currently caters to two locations in Southern California.  The first in the United States is at L.A. LIVE and CGV Cinemas Buena Park.  The future is bright as it was announced at CineCon 2018, Regal Entertainment has agreed to open 4DX in 79 new U.S. locations including Irvine and San Diego. Pricing may vary, from $18-$30, with different levels of features at certain venues.

Jurassic World is a perfect example of the immersive power of 4DX, having a plethora of various elements and special effects in the film worth bringing experiencing first hand. If you would like to know what to expect from the 4DX experience, please continue to read.  If not, be warned, SPOILERS AHEAD. Below is a description of one of the film’s explosive volcanic sequences.

Environmental and motion effects you can anticipate includes misty rainfall, gusts of wind, vibrations from roars and footsteps, shattering earthquakes, aircraft turbulence, volcanic debris whizzing past your ears, rubble tumbles past your feet, strobe lights and seat vibration for electric tasers, rolling blanket of deadly fog gas, punching fists, powerful kicks, and blood splatter.  Yes, you read that last part correctly.

Though, there is one effect that may need some improvement. Part of the experience is scent sensory. When trying to imitate the smell of pinewood and lush foliage, the effect comes off with a smell of burnt plastic. Regardless, the overall experience is full of amazing features, worthy of giving 4DX a try. Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom is a good start.  You can follow 4DX on their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/4dxusa/ and Instagram account @4DXusa

It’s time to return back to the island! Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom is now playing!

Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy Coming to Walt Disney World

Cars3
Cars3

Ka-Chow!

Coming early next year, Lightning McQueen will be racing over to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Walt Disney World in a brand new show, featuring the excitement and fun fueled moments of Disney-Pixar’s Cars. Named Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy, the veteran racer will be showing rookie hot shots the ropes in a thrilling display of high speed antics.

McQueen will be joined by his pals from Radiator Springs, including Tow Mater and Cruz Ramirez. The racing begins early 2019, with more details soon to come! This news comes shortly before the grand opening debut of Toy Story Land.

You can learn more by visiting Walt Disney World’s official site!

 

 

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Make Special Disneyland Appearance

“Heigh Ho!”

Disneyland Resort guests were given a magical treat, as Snow White reunited with her lovable companions, the Seven Dwarfs. The sensational appearance was a memorable exchange of smiles, laughs, and merriment. Snow White marched alongside her friends through the heart of Fantasyland, greeting guests and creating special moments along the way.

The original Disney Princess has a special place in the heart of Disney fans, being the symbol of kindness, love, and compassion. Crowds swarmed, each waiting for their opportunity to see her and the dwarfs. Though Snow will roam through the Magic Kingdom, it is rare for the Seven Dwarfs to visit, especially together. It was Disney Magic at its best, bring guests right back to the fairest beginning of them all.

The original gang together again!
The original gang together again!

Snow and her friends were not alone in their appearance, as other rare characters came out to greet fans throughout the day. Both Gideon and Geppetto from Pinocchio came out, though the sly cat may have been up to a little mischief along the way. Belle and Beast danced with the Disneyland Band, and even the Evil Queen stopped by to remind the crowd she is not one to be forgotten. Though the Evil Queen can be seen regularly, she is still difficult for fans to track down.

Gideon strikes a pose while visiting fans in Fantasyland.
Gideon strikes a pose while visiting fans in Fantasyland.
Geppetto writes a special message as he wanders through Fantasyland.
Geppetto writes a special message as he wanders through Fantasyland.

Check out the exclusive images below, following Snow and her friends throughout their adventure at Disneyland! Stay tuned for more magic, as anything is possible at the Magic Kingdom!

 

Butterbeer Ice Cream Arrives at Universal Studios Hollywood

Butterbeer ice cream at "The Wizarding World of Harry Potter" at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Witches and Wizards everywhere are about to experience the deliciousness of Butterbeer Ice Cream, coming to Universal Studios Hollywood for the first time ever. The rich and amazing treat will be the newest addition to the menu of Butterbeer items, joining traditional cold Butterbeer, frozen, and hot varieties. Fans can also purchase Butterbeer Potted Cream and Butterbeer fudge.

For those who have not had Butterbeer, it is a wonderful mix of flavors similar to that of butterscotch and shortbread. The ice cream is a wonderful surprise, as it originally was only available at the Harry Potter Studio Tour in London. You can find the frozen treat at various carts located within Hogsmeade village, as well as the Three Broomsticks. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter has plenty of new magic coming this summer, including the return of their special nighttime lights spectacular on Hogwarts Castle, so make sure to grab your broomstick and fly over to experience it all for yourself!

You can learn about all the special offerings coming your way this summer by visiting the Universal Studios Hollywood official site.

 

DC Universe announces Digital Subscription Service

DC UNIVERSE is a first-of-its kind digital subscription service that gives fans access to exclusive content and experiences not available anywhere else. With membership, fans will enjoy all-new original live-action and animated series, classic TV series and films, a curated selection of digital comic books, breaking news, an expansive DC-centric encyclopedia, and access to exclusive merchandise. Additional fan features include opportunities to connect with others in the DC community, earn premium rewards and participate in sweepstakes and contests.

Members of DC UNIVERSE can:

  • WATCH exclusive originals and classic favorites;
  • READ from an extensive list of curated comic books;
  • CONNECT with the DC community;
  • EXPLORE the latest breaking news and the ever-expanding DC encyclopedia;
  • WIN premium rewards and participate in sweepstakes and contests;
  • SHOP for exclusive merchandise.

Fans can sign up today for an opportunity for beta access, which will open in August 2018. Beta access will give members a chance to test the new digital experience and provide valuable feedback on the early version of the service before it goes live later this fall 2018.

“DC UNIVERSE is so much more than a streaming service. It’s a welcoming place for everyone to immerse themselves in their own level of DC fandom, with the epic characters, stories, and experiences they have come to expect from DC,” said Jim Lee, chief creative officer and publisher, DC Entertainment. “We are investing in and creating original, high-quality shows including the new Titans series, and curating the most beloved nostalgic content, while at the same time elevating the comic reading experience to new heights. Nothing this robust has ever been offered to fans before.”

WATCH

At the heart of DC UNIVERSE will be all-new exclusive original live-action and animated series based on DC’s iconic characters. Developed by Warner Bros. Television, Swamp Thing and Doom Patrol are scheduled to debut in 2019, following the dramatic, live-action adventure series Titans which premieres later this year. Warner Bros. Animation is also developing a slate of animated TV series based on existing fan favorites, including Harley Quinn and the highly anticipated third season of the popular Young Justice: Outsiders animated series which are both scheduled to debut in 2019.

  • Titans follows young heroes from across the DC Universe as they come of age and find belonging in a gritty take on the classic Teen Titans franchise. Dick Grayson and Rachel Roth, a special young girl possessed by a strange darkness, get embroiled in a conspiracy that could bring Hell on Earth. Joining them along the way are the hot-headed Starfire and loveable Beast Boy. Together they become a surrogate family and team of heroes.
  • Doom Patrol is a reimagining of one of DC’s strangest group of outcasts: Robotman, Negative Man, Elasti-Woman and Crazy Jane. Led by the mysterious Dr. Niles Caulder they’re called into action by the ultimate hero for the digital age, Cyborg. Banding together these rejects find themselves on a mission that will take them to the weirdest and most unexpected corners of the DC universe.
  • Swamp Thing follows Abby Arcane as she investigates what seems to be a deadly swamp-born virus in a small town in Louisiana but soon discovers that the swamp holds mystical and terrifying secrets. When unexplainable and chilling horrors emerge from the murky marsh, no one is safe.
  • Young Justice: Outsiders features the return of the fan favorite animated series with a huge cast of DC’s most iconic young superheroes – plus brand-new characters, many of whom are just discovering their unique meta-powers and special abilities. Set against the backdrop of a rich, deep world that touches all corners of the DC universe, the season focuses on meta–trafficking, and an intergalactic arms race for control of these super–powered youths.
  • Harley Quinn follows Harley’s adventures after she breaks up with the Joker and strikes out on her own in this new adult animated comedy. With the help of Poison Ivy and a ragtag crew of DC castoffs, Harley tries to earn a seat at the biggest table in villainy: the Legion of the Doom.

An assortment of DC’s most beloved superhero films will also be available at launch for exclusive streaming windows, including all four original Superman movies as well as a selection of epic animated movies including Justice League: The Flashpoint ParadoxGreen Lantern: First Flight, and Wonder Woman. The service will also feature classic TV shows, including the first two seasons of Batman: The Animated Series and the original Wonder Woman series available for the first time in HD.

READ

The DC UNIVERSE comics reader will include native, untethered access across devices from a smartphone or tablet to a living room screen rendered in vivid detail. Fans can scroll through some of their favorite comics from the comfort of their couch with family or friends and see this vibrant art form come to life like never before. A curated selection of thousands of DC comics will be available to DC UNIVERSE members from a library that includes decades of comics creations.

Members can read some of the most famous stories in comic book history such as the first 1938 Action Comics that introduced Superman to the world as well as Detective Comics #27 which first introduced Batman in 1939. Other titles include Geoff Johns and Jim Lee’s iconic Justice League (2011), Swamp Thing (2011) written by Scott Snyder, and Harley Quinn (2013) written by Jimmy Palmiotti and Amanda Conner. Rotating selections will cater to both members new to comics and passionate fans looking for hard-to-find titles. Comics can also be downloaded for reading offline on a smartphone or tablet.

“We wanted the DC UNIVERSE comic reader to be a blend of art and technology that would further enhance fans’ experiences of the live-action and animated programming on DC UNIVERSE,” said Dan DiDio, publisher, DC Entertainment. “This hand-curated selection from our decades of comic creations gives fans a thematic digital longbox to carry with them on the device of their choosing or lets them watch exclusive video content on a big screen followed by the comic that inspired it.”

CONNECT

The community within DC UNIVERSE will be a place where members can rate, create and share their own personalized playlists of their favorite heroes and villains. Members can personalize their profile and select their own avatar, be it Superman, Wonder Woman, or another heroic character or symbol. Designed to be a place for finding commonality and sharing favorite rivalries or the latest list of must-read comic books, members will have a forum for posting information, finding friendship and sharing their DC passions in a shared, moderated space within DC UNIVERSE.

EXPLORE & WIN

Latest news, an extensive DC encyclopedia, and chances to win round out the membership benefits of DC UNIVERSE. Short-form news, interviews and previews in daily video segments will keep fans up-to-date on the latest from all corners of the DC universe. The ever-expanding DC encyclopedia, to which fans can contribute, will house bios of hundreds of DC characters and places. In addition, members will have chances to win premium rewards, including game unlocks, first-chance access to pop-culture events, exclusive experiences and more.

SHOP

Exclusively for DC UNIVERSE members, DC Collectibles—the award-winning line of collectibles from DC Entertainment—will offer a wide range of new action figures and collector’s items based on DC’s iconic characters and stories. Members will have exclusive access to all-new six-inch Justice League Animated action figures based on designs from the fan-favorite animated series (2001-2004), starting in fall 2018. In addition to DC Collectibles, members will have access to a wide range of exclusive, curated and hard-to-find DC merchandise from a variety of licensing partners before the rest of the world.

The operation of DC UNIVERSE will be managed by Sam Ades, general manager and senior vice president, Warner Bros. Digital Networks, based in Burbank. The digital media executive formerly served as the senior vice president, direct to consumer, for DC Entertainment, where he was responsible for creating and executing DC’s digital marketing strategy.

DC UNIVERSE will be available in the United States at launch on iOS, Android, Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Android TV, as well as the web and mobile web. To learn more and register for an opportunity for beta access, visit dcuniverse.com.

Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest Now Open at Universal Studios Hollywood

The newly opened Dreamworks Theatre at Universal Studios Hollywood has premiered it’s epic show of awesomess, Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest. The show features Po and his memorable companions from the hit franchise, Kung Fu Panda as they attempt to deliver the elusive Liquid of Limitless Power to the Emperor’s Palace. All the while, they will be met with dangerous foes and obstacles, bringing in state of the art effects and projection that will transport guests directly into the spirit realm.

SoCalThrills had a chance to view the new venue and experience the show first hand. You can see in the video above a quick overview of the new venue, which was completely remodeled and constructed for the show. In tribute to the iconic films in the Dreamworks Canon, the entire area is a wonderful mix of classic Art Deco and the modern age of animation. With input from Dreamworks directly, it has all come together beautifully.

The preshow area stages the show, giving you a glimpse into the story and also bringing back many of Dreamworks’ classic characters from films such as Shrek, Madagascar, and Trolls. You will also get a chance to review props, awards, and maquettes used by animators at the studio during production. Make sure to keep a close eye, as there is a lot to take in with a short period of time. Once the doors open, it is also recommended to go towards the very back of the theatre. The show is a fully immersive experience, so this will give you the absolute best angle possible to soak in all the show has to offer. It’s an absolutely breathtaking show, bringing the magic of Dreamworks alive in a way that has never been seen before.

Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest can be found in the heart of Universal’s upper lot and will be available for both standby and Universal Express passes. Universal is also offering new experiences at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which can be seen by clicking here. To learn about all of Universal’s summer offerings, special events, and new attractions, make sure to visit Universal Studios’ official site.


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