Disney and PerBlue Announce Disney Heroes: Battle Mode, an All-New Mobile Role-Playing Game (RPG)

By

-

April 2, 2018

Disney and PerBlue announced Disney Heroes: Battle Mode, a new, action-packed mobile role-playing game (RPG) that features Disney and Pixar heroes battling together in the same universe in all new ways. Players will experience fun, unexpected 5v5 match-ups with fan-favorite characters from The Incredibles, Wreck-It Ralph, Pirates of the Caribbean and much more. Pre-registration begins today on Google Play™, and the game will be available on the App Store® and on Google Play later this year.

[videopress DfPnwg9g]

“Disney Heroes: Battle Mode brings together Disney and Pixar characters in an all-new, original universe,” said Lisa Anderson, vice president, Games, Disney. “PerBlue has done a great job of bringing our characters to life in authentically Disney ways, and players will be surprised and delighted as they mix and match hero team-ups.”

Key Features Include:

• Deep Bench of Characters: Collect and transform 30+ Disney and Pixar heroes into battle-ready big shots, including The Incredibles, Frozone, Wreck-It Ralph, Vanellope von Schweetz, Judy Hopps, Nick Wilde and more.

• Missions and Friend Campaigns: Team up unlikely Disney and Pixar characters to battle together in the same universe to earn exclusive bonuses.

• A New Digital World: Lead characters through a corrupted digital world that they’re charged with saving from an evil virus.

• Epic Abilities and Gear: Activate skills, equip gear, and level up characters to take on bigger and badder enemies.

“We’re excited to be working with some of the most recognizable characters and brands in the world and to bring them together in the new universe we’ve created,” said Justin Beck, CEO, PerBlue. “Disney and Pixar have been great collaborators that have shared our vision for creating a fun, multiplayer experience that can be enjoyed by all gamers.”

Disney Heroes: Battle Mode marks the first game developed between Disney and PerBlue since the deal was announced earlier this year.

Pre-registration for Disney Heroes: Battle Mode begins today on Google Play. Pre-registered players will receive a free hero of their choice at game launch. Heroes to choose from include Mr. Incredible, Fix-It Felix, Jr., Nick Wilde, Jessie and Sulley with Boo.

For more information and to keep up with the latest updates, please visit http://www.disneyheroesgame.com/.

App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

Google Play and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google LLC.

Hot Topic Gears Up For Ready Player One

By

Maverick Bohn

-

March 30, 2018

As Ready Player One jumps into theaters this weekend, you will have an opportunity to bring part of The Oasis home with exclusive merchandise from Hot Topic. From Funko to fragrances, there’s something for everyone, including retro throwbacks to some of the iconic films and childhood favorites referenced in Spielberg’s latest blockbuster.

Part of the Ready Player One Funko line. 9 figures make up the set including Parzival, Art3mis, and Aech.

Part of the Funko Pop series, Hot Topic has also released a special transparent exclusive figure of Parzival. Paired with Art3mis, he’s a great addition to the Funko line. If you feel a little more devious, Sorrento is also available to bring out your villainous side.

Make up kits and bath bombs are also available celebrating the film's release. — Make up kits and bath bombs are also available celebrating the film’s release.

As always, this merchandise is on a limited run and will not be available forever. Show your pride, throw on your t-shirt, grab your hat, and join the game! Check out the entire collection, including special online only merchandise.

Hot Topic also sponsors the “Ready Player One Challenge” which can be experienced until April 1st in Hollywood. You can read more about the experience by checking out our exclusive feature below! If you’re lucky, you might get a chance to jump back in time in the legendary Back to the Future DeLorean.

http://socalsite.socalthrills.com/check-out-the-final-of-hollywoods-ready-player-one-challenge/

Ready Player One is now playing in theaters!

Check Out the Final of Hollywood’s Ready Player One Challenge

By

Russell Tom

-

March 28, 2018

If you happen to be walking on the corner of Hollywood and Vine, don’t miss your chance to experience the “Ready Player One Challenge”. Going into its final weekend, it’s a fun filled adventure that celebrates the release of the film in an immersive team experience that puts you right into the hunt for the ultimate prize.

Think of it as a cross between a walk-thru maze, an easter egg hunt, and an escape game. Each player is given a wristband to track their progress through the challenge. A digital scoreboard tracks your ranking as you exit. Groups are joined together in reserved time slots and are given an explanation of the challenge. Just like the movie, there are three keys in the maze that must be found in order to “win” the egg. Just like in the movie.

Photo ops are available as you continue in what appears to be a set straight from the film. This is your chance to take your pictures in front of a vehicle and high-rise structures set to the theme of Ready Player One. It is most impressive and detailed.

From there, you are then escorted in the back of a van and lead past clues and set pieces stored inside it. All around are citizens engaged with their Virtual Reality (VR) sets, experiencing the world of The Oasis. The setting appears to be a home that our main character would live in.

Make a quick turn and you are now being thrust into The Oasis itself… which leads to a dance party with Batman, Superman, Harley Quinn, and a giant Care Bear. It has the vibe of a Comic-Con after party! You are then set free to explore all the vivid details to find your keys (Crystal, Copper, and Jade) that will grant you access to the egg. One set piece include a living room with plenty of 1980s movie and video game references. Even the movie posters are parodies with the Ready Player One movie characters in them. Other set pieces include a Rubik’s Cube room and infinity mirror room.

If you can master the challenge and find all three keys, a door slides open to reveal the egg accompanied by props on display that were used in the movie. The exit contains a gift shop provided by Hot Topic. You can even purchase your very own set of key replicas!

Just when you think it’s over, a hidden gem appears, with no signs or hints to lead you to it. The time machine from Back to the Future is waiting, and is the ultimate prize. You can actually take a picture with the DeLorean. As you leave, a free poster is given to celebrate your victory. Overall, it was a pretty worthy experience.

The challenge is open now until April 1st, from 11am-11pm. Admission is free. Learn more about the limited time event at http://www.readyplayeronechallenge.com/

Ready Player One releases on May 29th.

Check Out the Final of Hollywood's Ready Player One Challenge

AMC Theatres Coming to Anaheim Gardenwalk in 2019!

By

Maverick Bohn

-

March 28, 2018

AMC Theatres is moving into the Anaheim Gardenwalk next year, relocating from its current location in the Downtown Disney District. The news was announced in preparation to construction for Disneyland’s latest hotel project that will close most of the area the current theater is part of. Other closures will include The ESPN Zone, Rain Forest Cafe, and Earl of Sandwich.

AMC will renovate 22,358 square feet on the upper level of the Garden Walk, next to House of Blues, ushering in new life to the local hot spot.

“We are extremely pleased to announce the new AMC Theatres planned for Anaheim GardenWalk,” says Jonathan Mayblum, Co-Founder and Principal of Arcturus, a real estate asset management company responsible for the operation of Anaheim GardenWalk. “Anaheim GardenWalk has become one of the premier ‘eatertainment’ destinations in Orange County, and with the wide array of dining and entertainment options the center offers – including the coming AMC Theatres – there’s something of interest for people in every age range and walk of life.”

Though an official opening date has not yet been announced, AMC will be in Anaheim to stay. It will join the likes of Bubba Gump, The Cheesecake Factory, and Bowlmor Anaheim. You can take a look at all the current offerings at the Gardenwalk by visiting their official site below!

https://anaheimgardenwalk.com/

Beachfront Luxury at Inn at the Pier in Pismo Beach

By

Greg Aragon, Writer Greg's Getaway

-

March 28, 2018

Pismo Beach is one of my favorite Central California locations. Set on the ocean, with perfect weather, miles of sandy beaches, an historic pier, unique shops and dining, nearby wineries and tons of classic vibe, the city has everything I look for in a weekend getaway.

So when I heard about an exciting, new, boutique hotel that recently came to town, I knew I had to investigate. Called Inn at the Pier, the property is aptly named. It is located directly in front of the 94 year-old Pismo Pier, mere steps from the beach.

My getaway to the Inn at the Pier began when a friend and I checked into an incredible suite, overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Pismo pier. Covering more than 800 luxurious square-feet, the room was highlighted by mesmerizing ocean and pier views from two separate balconies: one off the living room and one off of the separate bedroom.

The views from rooms at Inn at the Pier are memorable

Other suite amenities included a spacious living area with an L-shaped couch; 55-inch LCD TV; office work desk with chair and high-speed Wi-Fi; and a kitchen with sink, refrigerator, microwave, espresso machine and dining bar with chairs. There was also a huge bathroom with double vanities, walk-in shower and separate toilet area; not to mention the two aforementioned balconies overlooking the gorgeous Pismo coastline.

After unpacking, we walked about 100 yards from the hotel to the sand, where we laid out a blanket and relaxed, watching surfers ride waves and seagulls perch on the historic pier. Currently undergoing a nearly $9-million renovation, the pier was originally constructed in 1924. Since then it has suffered damage during several storms and a partial collapse in 1983.

The pier is currently getting a structural upgrade, with a new electrical system, water lines, lighting, benches, tables, public art and other public amenities. When complete in fall of 2019, the Pismo Pier will have the look and feel of “Classic California” with a traditional wooden decking and outdoor recreational space.

The Rooftop Bar offers incredible views and delicious cuisine (photo by Greg Aragon)

After lounging on the beach and shopping in downtown, we headed back to the Inn at the Pier for dinner at The Rooftop Bar, the hotel’s signature restaurant / lookout spot. To get here we walked down the hallway from our 3^rd floor suite, past the fitness room to the roof deck. Featuring a small pool, Jacuzzi, deck chairs, couches, fire pits and a bar / dining area, The Rooftop offers memorable coastal views and seasonally-inspired small plates, signature cocktails and local craft brews.

Our dinner at Rooftop began with an heirloom beet salad with watercress, grapefruit, pistachio, goat cheese, radishes and lemon-sage vinaigrette. We then had a bowl of tasty Pismo Beach clam chowder, with local clams, smoked bacon, potatoes and croutons. For the main course I devoured king salmon with carrot, radish, fennel heirloom potatoes, and lemon fennel cream. My friend experienced Wagyu flat iron steak with kalbi marinade, ginger-soba noodle cake, charred broccolini and kimchi, miso butter. While dining we watched the sun fall into the ocean behind San Luis Obispo.

Pismo Preserve is a natural wonderland meandering above the sea (photo by Greg Aragon)

The next morning I worked out at the hotel’s modern fitness room, then had breakfast at Blonde, the hotel’s contemporary restaurant, located next to the lobby. From here, I drove a mile to Pismo Preserve (https://lcslo.org/) where I toured the 900-acre natural wonderland, overlooking the ocean.

Offering diverse docent-led recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, the preserve boasts more than 10 miles of rugged and beautiful trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. The trails traverse serene oak woodlands and coastal ridgelines with stunning panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean stretching from the Irish Hills to Point Sal.

Back at the hotel, we made dinner in our suite and dined on our private balcony watching the sunset over Pismo Pier.

The Inn at the Pier is located at 601 Cypress Street, Pismo Beach, CA 93449. For more information on staying at the hotel, call 805-295-5565 or visit: www.theinnatthepier.com. For more information on visiting Pismo Beach, go to: www.classiccalifornia.com/

Star Wars The Last Jedi: Blu-Ray Review

By

Maverick Bohn

-

March 28, 2018

“This is not going to go the way you think!”

Star Wars The Last Jedi has finally arrived on Blu-Ray/DVD in a set that includes stunning extras, exclusive behind the scenes footage, and more in depth insight at the risks in bringing the latest Star Wars installment to the big screen. For the sake of review, SocalThrills cracked open the Target Exclusive Edition that also includes a 40 page booklet highlighting characters, scenes, and making of the film along with a beautiful presentation which can be seen below.

As expected, this set packs a punch, providing over 14 deleted scenes, candid moments with the cast and crew, and a deep dive into director Rian Johnson’s process. The most notable aspect of the set comes from the first featurette, The Director and the Jedi. As we all know, The Last Jedi had a mixed reception with the fan base and took the franchise in an unexpected direction. Even Luke Skywalker himself, Mark Hamill, was vocal about his reservations with his character. Yet, the set is one of the first times fans have had a chance to hear in to some of Rian Johnson’s own doubts and anxieties with the film process. Being a Star Wars film, a big level of responsibility is given. Especially as an outsider to the world of big franchises, Johnson was in a whole new universe of film making.

© 2017 Lucasfilm Ltd. All Rights Reserved.

The feature shows that not all of his ideas worked, and rather than focus on the possibility of failure, Johnson strapped in and pushed himself to write and create the best possible film he could. The weak areas were scrapped, and the entire production came out even better for it. This is a wonderful way to show the immense weight any film maker has at taking on the Star Wars brand. There are huge expectations, and especially given the split reaction to Johnson’s vision with The Last Jedi, this feature helps level the playing field. It provides an intimate insight that needs to be shared, and shows how important Star Wars is to Johnson.

As the set list continues, there’s plenty of behind the scenes footage to keep you occupied. Andy Serkis’ motion capture performance is shown, highlighting the genuine skill and acting chops the veteran has. We also get a look at some of the amazing set pieces that took months to build that include the Canto Bight and Acht-To scenery. Though both planets do feature live locations, intricate set reproductions were made that seamlessly mesh with the real spaces.

Yet, the real power of the films come from the talent on screen, and the set does not hesitate to remind you of all the work each member of the crew put in to making the film a reality. Daisy Ridley and Adam Driver filmed each scene together during their Force bond moments to create a sense of real connection. Rather than speak to an empty room, Ridley could be found on the opposite side of the camera during Driver’s scenes. Both perspectives were shot, giving more depth to each interaction.

Some time is spent on Carrie Fisher and while somber, is a nice tribute to the late actress. Being her last film, Fisher stated during the featured content that this may be her best work. Though there is not a separate feature focused specifically on Fisher, Johnson takes the time to honor her and we have a last chance to say goodbye.

The Target edition also comes with an exclusive featurette, “Meet the Porgs”, which brings the creature shop to the spotlight. Over 15 Porgs were created that included traditional puppets, animatronics, and background pieces. Every feather was hand sewn, showing the level of dedication the shop had in bringing the new creature to life in a big way. Though, the feature comes on a separate DVD disc and it does not appear any other content is on it.

For those who download the digital copy of the film through the service, Movies Anywhere, a special score only version of the film will be available in the features section. It allows the viewer to watch The Last Jedi as a silent film, only accompanied with John Williams’ score. Johnson teased the version via Twitter, and it is a fantastic bonus to keep an ear open for.

Here’s a review at the full breakdown of features:

The Director and the Jedi – Go deep behind the scenes with writer-director Rian Johnson on an intimate and personal journey through the production of the movie—and experience what it’s like to helm a global franchise and cultural phenomenon.
Balance of the Force – Explore the mythology of the Force and why Rian Johnson chose to interpret its role in such a unique way.
Scene Breakdowns
- Lighting the Spark: Creating the Space Battle – Get a close-up look at the epic space battle, from the sounds that help propel the action, through the practical and visual effects, to the characters who bring it all to life.
- Snoke and Mirrors – Motion capture and Star Wars collide as the filmmakers take us through the detailed process of creating the movie’s malevolent master villain.
- Showdown on Crait – Break down everything that went into creating the stunning world seen in the movie’s final confrontation, including the interplay between real-word locations and visual effects, reimagining the walkers, designing the crystal foxes, and much more.
Andy Serkis Live! (One Night Only) – Writer-director Rian Johnson presents two exclusive sequences from the movie featuring Andy Serkis’ riveting, raw on-set performance before his digital makeover into Snoke.
Deleted Scenes – With an introduction and optional commentary by writer-director Rian Johnson.
Audio Commentary – View the movie with in-depth feature audio commentary by writer-director Rian Johnson.
Target Exclusive Feature: “Meet the Porgs” Take a behind the scenes look at Star Wars’ newest creature and the practical magic made to bring the Porgs to life.
Movies Anywhere Exclusive: Score Only Version of the Film. A special edit of The Last Jedi that will allow fans to experience the film with no dialogue set to the epic score by John Williams.

You can purchase your copy of The Last Jedi at any major online or local retailer. You can take look at the full list of exclusive packaging and options by visiting Star Wars’ featured link below.

http://www.starwars.com/the-last-jedi/?gclid=CPCpyM_TjtoCFccYfgodO54ERQ&gclsrc=ds

READY PLAYER ONE Movie Review

By

Maverick Bohn

-

March 27, 2018

“First to the egg!”

Steven Spielberg’s latest film, Ready Player One, is a legendary tribute to both nostalgia and escapism that’s bound to be an instant cult classic. Based off the 2011 novel by Ernest Cline, the story takes us to the not so distant future of 2045. A time where society has given up on improving the grim fate of the real world and instead escapes into a virtual universe with infinite possibilities: The Oasis. Created by James Halliday, every person’s desires can be fulfilled by jumping through the virtual gates into a world their own. Whether that is to be the leader on the battlefield, the builder of worlds in Minecraft, or someone aimlessly wandering the shores of paradise, The Oasis provides a tool that connects the world in a way never thought possible.

Pop culture thrives through a plethora of references that include Batman, The Iron Giant, Gundam, and Back to the Future. Spielberg made sure every inch of screen time was chalked full of fandom and geeky personal connections. It’s an extremely entertaining love ballad to all things nerdy. Yet, Ready Player One isn’t just another cookie cutter movie out of the Hollywood pipeline. This film isn’t a Hunger Games, isn’t a super hero movie, or a cheesy reboot. The movie stands on its own and for any true nerd, this film is a gold mine that is one part blockbuster, one part cult art.

Similar to our modern day Internet, The Oasis is the essence of our own creativity and is limitless. That power takes center stage right from the beginning, as Halliday reveals a grand quest at the time of his passing. Leaving an “Easter Egg” in The Oasis, everyone is given the task of finding three invisible keys that unlock the ultimate prize. Fortune and glory will find their way to whoever is first to the egg, giving the winner sole control over both Halliday’s wealth and the future of the entire Oasis. A scoreboard is created and the game begins.

This challenge however, finds itself to be an impossible task, and after 5 years, the world begins to forget the hunt and focus on their own fantasies within The Oasis. The scoreboard remains blank, and many believe Halliday’s challenge will remain unanswered. As the world spins, only two factions remain in the hunt for Halliday’s grand egg. The first are a ragtag population of gamers named Gunters. They pride themselves in their quest for the ultimate glory and see Halliday’s egg as a challenge that cannot be ignored. The other player in this quest is a sinister organization, Innovative Online Industries (IOI). Building itself up from exploiting people’s addictions to The Oasis, the company has devoted all its resources into taking control of the virtual world. Little do they know one Gunter, Parzival (Wade Watts), will stumble into a hidden clue that may very well be the catalyst to an epic struggle that will put the entire Oasis in the fray.

What makes this film work is the understanding of how pop culture shapes our lives. Each generation can relate to their childhoods and memories through the power of what media they grew up with. Think about your favorite childhood TV show or what was at the top of the pop charts when you were in middle school. What toys did you play with and what characters did you grow up idolizing? Every element, whether real or fictional, has a solid impact on how we relate with the world around us. It’s a personal gateway to understanding what ingredients make up the individual.

Ready Player One takes full advantage of that through every single reference, but doesn’t throw it at you like a bloated paid advertisement. Instead, each easter egg is tailored to have both a universal feel and a customized experience all at the same time. A personal favorite was the Jack Slater Marquee seen during the epic race sequence. Last Action Hero, as terribly cheesy as 90s action films come, was a childhood staple of mine and being able to see tribute paid to it was a fantastic surprise. It lasted a total of two seconds, but brought this film right into the childhood feels. That’s an experience that cannot be beat.

Another amazing sequence provides a direct reference to the Stanley Kubrick classic, The Shining. Each piece and element of the eerie Overlook Hotel was reconstructed for this film and it looks flawless. The viewer, along with Parzival and his team, are taken right into the 1980s horror film and provided some unique twists and turns to wrap it all together. The sequence serves a greater purpose than fan service. You’ll have to take a look at the film yourself to see how the demented Steven King tale relates to it all. It’s a scene that will not disappoint, even for those who aren’t fans of the horror genre.

With so many subtle nods and tributes throughout, that there’s bound to be at least one for every viewer regardless of age, tastes, or background. After the film ends, you’ll want to jump right back into it all to catch all the references you may have missed. The best part is, it will reconnect you with a lot of your all time favorite movies. You’ll not only want to watch this film again, but pop open your movie collection, hit rewind, and grab the popcorn. Prepare to dust off some of the old reliable VHS and DVD sets you have on your shelves. Their time has come.

The nostalgia compliments the story, blended perfectly so it doesn’t over power the central plot. It’s a fun, quick paced, and thrilling ride from start to finish, filling in all the classic tropes for a science fiction adventure. There’s suspense, there’s action, along with high stakes and the stereotypical catchphrase or two. Yet there are also more cogs moving, allowing character building through diversity and unity. Teamwork is a powerful tool, and one showcased prominently. So many stories highlight how one person can shape the fate of an entire universe. This film takes it a step further, showing us that we don’t need to go it alone. No fate but what we make. Everyone plays a part and the pushes towards the same goal.

There’s so much to relate to in this movie, and this film is a reminder of how special each of our fandoms are to us. With so many big franchises releasing sequels this year, it’s great to have a standalone movie that is in tune with the geeky film enthusiast. Spielberg has created something magical that delivers in a big way.

Ready Player One releases on March 29th. You can learn more about the movie and find upcoming showtimes by visiting http://readyplayeronemovie.com/

Medieval Times’ New Dinner Show Dazzles and Amazes

By

Maverick Bohn

-

March 27, 2018

Long live the queen!

Medieval Times has a new ruler, and she is taking the reigns in a big way to usher in a one of a kind experience fit for a new generation of royalty. The popular dinner show, set in the time of knights, chivalry, and glorious battle, has long been a staple and fan favorite. Founded in 1977, Medieval Times has entertained over 65 million guests across multiple continents and has featured intense battles, amazing stunts, and one of a kind performances that have kept people coming back for more for over three decades.

Going into a new era, the story of the show surrounds the former princess, now crowned queen. Taking the kingdom over from her now passed father, she must uphold the honor and legacy of her kingdom while keeping her provinces and knights in line. Coming together in a ceremony of pageantry and battle, each knight tests his might to have the honor of being the queen’s protector and leading the kingdom’s army.

The show creates unique challenges and an opportunity for women to take center stage in a genre that is traditionally male dominant. Jon Speirer, Medieval Times Senior VP stated, “We are now showing a woman fully in charge, a woman whose authority is sometimes challenged, but she quickly rises to the occasion as a strong leader, squelching opposition.”

Set in Spain, a country famously known for powerful queens and female leadership, the story creates modern progression while still holding onto the historical accuracy and traditional storytelling needed to make the show a success.

It has been a painstaking process for the company to bring this new chapter to life, creating over 700 new costumes for the various castles around the world. Every horse, creature, and knight was adorned with new garb. Along with those costumes, 200 suits of armor, shields, and helmets were fabricated and made by hand for the new show. Preparing for the new stunts and performances, each team member went through three months of training and rehearsals.

While the troupe trained, a new score was composed by Doctor Daniel May. With previous work including “Everest” as well as partnerships with Sting and The Moody Blues, May completed the show’s musical accompaniment with the help of lyricist Solomia Gorokhivska and the National Symphony Orchestra of Ukrraine. To go with the music, the effects department programmed over 300 new music cues, 500 lighting cues, and installed an impressive 256 color light system.

Every element of this new show was crafted from the ground up, giving a fresh perspective that is sure to impress. Take a look at some of the images of the new show below. There’s plenty of excitement packed into each show. Whether it is your first visit or your 100th trip to the castle, there’s definitely something new for everyone. Come take a look for yourself!

Medieval Times' New Dinner Show Dazzles and Amazes

To learn more about the new show, ticket prices, and special offers, please visit http://www.medievaltimes.com/

D23 Expo 2019 Returns to Anaheim Where Disney’s Wonderful Worlds Come Together

By

Socalthrills Staff

-

March 26, 2018

All the magic and excitement of the past, present, and future of Disney entertainment will come together once again when D23: The Official Disney Fan Club presents D23 Expo 2019 at the Anaheim Convention Center the weekend of August 23–25. Each of Disney’s magical worlds—including Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars—will unite under one roof to celebrate what’s new and what’s on the horizon from Disney theme parks, television, music, products, and films.

Highlights planned for D23 Expo include more than 50 shows, presentations, and panels, including the Disney Legends Ceremony, which honors the talented men and women who have made significant contributions to the Disney legacy; an all-new exhibit curated by the Walt Disney Archives; a daily parade down the middle of the show floor; D23 Expo’s costume contest, Mousequerade, showcasing the most creative designs by fans; and the D23 Expo Design Challenge. (Details on the Design Challenge and Mousequerade will be forthcoming.)

D23 Expo 2019 will feature a massive show floor full of immersive experiences and special opportunities to see what’s next for Disney around the world—and guests may run into their favorite Disney stars, characters, Imagineers, animators, and filmmakers. Guests can enjoy numerous shopping opportunities with D23 Expo-exclusive collectibles and more at an assortment of Disney and partner merchants, including the D23 Expo Emporium, where Disney fans can buy, sell, and trade Disney collectibles, memorabilia, merchandise, and more. All of the popular presentation venues will return, including Hall D23, the Expo Arena, Stage 28, and Center Stage.

D23’s sixth Expo follows the success of D23 Expo 2017, which drew tens of thousands of Disney fans for three star-studded days and nights. Guests were treated to appearances by such celebrities as Oprah Winfrey, Reese Witherspoon, Whoopi Goldberg, Jordan Fisher, Robert Downey Jr., Mark Hamill, Kristen Bell, Chris Hemsworth, Mandy Moore, and the stars of Disney’s Descendants. Guests had the chance to take a jump into a life-sized DuckTales money bin; were the first to see a full-scale model of Galaxy’s Edge, the Star Wars-themed land coming to Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts; and were able to enjoy a full-length concert from Disney Legend Alan Menken. They also enjoyed a look back at Disney’s rich history through extraordinary panels, presentations, and exhibits and discovered the newest entertainment, technology, and products coming from Disney.

Tickets for D23 Expo 2019 will go on sale at D23expo.com beginning August 23, 2018. Special pricing on both one- and three-day tickets to the event—including an Early Bird Discount—will be exclusively available to D23 Gold Members. Additional special benefits will also be available to D23 Gold and Charter Members at the 2019 Expo. D23 Gold Members will also have an opportunity to purchase the Sorcerer Package, which provides a host of special benefits and amenities. Ticket prices will be announced later this summer.

The Book of Mormon returns to Segerstrom Center for the Arts

By

Cori Graham

-

March 25, 2018

The Book of Mormon is an absolute triumph. Brought to us by South Park creators Matt Stone and Trey Parker, and Robert Lopez of Avenue Q, Frozen, and Coco fame; this show is amazingly risqué yet heartwarming.

We follow the journey of Elder Price as he goes on his mission which he worked toward for 19 years. As you may guess, it doesn’t quite pan out the way he was hoping. Lampooning and sampling many of Broadway’s biggest hits along the way, you will gain a very different understanding of the Mormon religion than you may have had before. Elder Price has ideas of where he hopes to go on his mission, but when he is partnered up with Elder Cunningham–the least successful Elder in their training center–and sent to Uganda, life will never be the same! Are the villagers in Uganda ready to embrace the Heavenly Father? Will Elder Price and Elder Cunningham survive while an armed General lurks in the shadows? Will you be able to stop laughing long enough to take a sip of your intermission drink? Guess you’ll want to find out.

The Book of Mormon returns to Segerstrom Center for the Arts — The Book of Mormon Washington, D.C. November 17, 2017 Photo Credit: Julieta Cervantes

Directed by Casey Nicholas and Trey Parker himself, the show was perfectly timed in blocking and line delivery to keep you laughing. Jesus sounds like he just walked directly out of South Park and onto the stage. If you are a fan of South Park, nothing in this show should alarm you very much. Kevin Clay is a strong Elder Price, his vocals were sharp and youthful with just the right amount of irony. Conner Peirson is the stand out as Elder Cunningham, between his high-pitched dialogue, endearing vocal intonation, and portrayal of adolescent discomfort, Peirson builds an annoying yet sweet Elder Cunningham that you begin rooting for very early on. Kayla Pecchioni delivers a very innocent and heartwarming portrayal of Nabulungi, with warm vocals that exude wide-eyed optimism. The show utilizes a pretty small cast with some actors playing multiple roles throughout the show; however this is expertly done and does not distract at all from the story. The ensemble vocals are great, seamlessly moving from a Mormon Tabernacle Choir-esque sound to the vocals of African traditional music.

The stage itself is quite a wonder. There are minimal set changes throughout the show, but the use of a few small props and lighting can change the exact scene from a Mormon Training Center to an Airport, or from Africa to Hell. Read everything you can, even the signs are pretty comical. It provides for some great things to see if this is your 2nd time seeing the show and you know where the story is going. I had a few laughs related directly to prop and costume usage having nothing to do with dialogue at all, which was fun. The music is a huge part of the show, with sound effects being utilized several times, you will quickly forget that there are only 6 people in the orchestra, and the conductor is also playing the keyboard!

Overall, if you haven’t seen The Book Of Mormon, you have to. It’s one of those shows that will transcend its initial popularity and join the ranks of long-running hits like Cats and RENT. If you have young kids, are easily offended, or extremely religious, this show may be a tough one for you to sit through, as there is a lot of profanity and explicit content. Consider the show rated ‘R’. For anyone who enjoys South Park, or enjoyed Avenue Q, this show is a MUST and you will want to see it again and again.

THE BOOK OF MORMON runs until April 1, 2018 in Segerstrom Hall. Get your tickets now at SCFTA.org or call the box office at (714) 556-2787.

The Great LEGO Race Virtual Reality Kids Coaster Now Open At Legoland Florida

By

Lake Sprenkle

-

March 25, 2018

Brick fans, start your engines! The newest attraction at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort combines roller coaster thrills with virtual reality (VR) technology to put guests in the center of an action-packed road rally where the laws of physics and aerodynamics only loosely apply.

[videopress fa9He0fT]

Now open at the multi-day vacation destination, The Great LEGO® Race invites guests into a virtual world where they’re the star of a rollicking race against several LEGO minifigure competitors – all while taking an exciting roller coaster ride.
Guests experience the point of view of a LEGO race car driver with action taking place in every direction — up, down, forward, backward and all points in between — in a dazzling environment where everything is made of LEGO bricks.

The wild and wacky race pits guests against a LEGO pirate, wizard, surfer, trendsetter and pharaoh driving brick-built vehicles like a rocket-powered windsurfing rig, a stylish scooter fueled by espresso and an ornately canopied bed (called a “litter”) carried by mummy servants.

The adventure begins as guests step through the ride’s bold new entry portal, which features giant versions of several minifigure racers and their custom LEGO vehicles. The nearby queue is filled with colorful graphics representing each of the five racing teams, with themed elements to entertain waiting riders and video screens demonstrating the virtual reality experience.

Once guests are dispatched aboard the ride vehicles, sophisticated technology syncs the virtual visuals with the roller coaster’s twists, turns, drops and climbs, creating an all-new experience filled with action, surprises and humor — an experience only LEGOLAND could create. Check out a video of the VR experience below! If you look hard enough, you may even see some familiar figures cheering you on throughout the ride.

[videopress FoMKgOJE]

We had the opportunity to check out his new experience, and let us say that we were blown away by it. This ride is awesome for children and adults alike. There was a lot of thought put into the design of the virtual race and the way it lines up with the drops, curves, and speed of the coaster is spectacular. Of course, we couldn’t ride an attraction built for kids without having our local Lego enthusiast, seven-year-old Keegan, try the ride and tell us what he thinks. After riding the ride Keegan exclaimed, “That was awesome,” bearing a huge smile on his face. Of course, he then insisting on riding the ride multiple times again.

If you are headed to Legoland Florida soon, make sure to check out this awesome new ride!

A Sweet Guide to Knott’s Berry Farm’s 2018 Boysenberry Festival

By

Maverick Bohn

-

March 23, 2018

Spring is off to a sweet start with Knott’s Berry Farm’s Annual Boysenberry Festival, filled with sweet confections, unique twists, and old fan favorites. Take a look at our delectable guide below to see the best of what Knott’s has to offer for this year’s celebration!

Food Offerings

Though it may be tempting to hitch a ride on “Ghost Rider” and “Supreme Scream”, this festival is all about the food. With a large assortment of boysenberry offerings, there’s plenty to taste, savor, and enjoy. For this year’s festival, a special tasting card will be available for purchase, giving you the ability to mix and match some of the newest offerings for only $30.

Care for some elote? Better get in line before it gets too long!

The tasting card includes the following options:

Slow Cooked Boysenberry Short Rib – Located at Spur’s Chophouse
Boysenberry Pierogies – Located at Spur’s Chophouse
Boysenberry Chicken Wings – Located Outside Spur’s Chophouse
Boysenberry Coconut Macroon – Located at the Ghost Town Bakery
Boysenberry Elote – Located at the Gold Trails Hotel
Boysenberry Hummus and Grilled Pita Bread – Located North of Sutter’s Grill
Boysenberry Cheese Quesadilla – Located Outside of Ghost Town Candy
Boysenberry Sausage on a Bun. – Located Outside of the Wilderness Dance Hall

These boysenberry sausages are hard to resist!

Items can also be purchased a la carte. With over 75 different foods to chose from, there is bound to be something for everyone in the family to try. This includes fan favorites such as the Boysenberry Pizza and Churro Factory’s Boysenberry Filled Churro. A full list of food offerings and returning fare can be found through Knott’s official link: Click Here for Full List

There will also be plenty of wine and brews to taste and savor over at The Wine and Craft Tasting Garden.

This list is a great resource, since there may be some seasonal offerings that are not advertised, such as the Boysenberry Cornbread found at Boardwalk BBQ. Other amazing options include the Boysenberry Pie Milkshake at the Ghost Town Grill, which is a unique pie infused blend including graham cracker crust, whipped cream, and an explosion of berry filling mixed with vanilla ice cream.

This milkshake is a perfect way to get a sweet and relaxing break from the hustle and bustle of the festival.

Boysenberry Boba, which we had featured in our recent sneak peak, is destined to be a crowd favorite and can be found at the Gourmet Coffee Hut and the Ghost Town Bakery. The boba will also have soy and almond options to help with any special dietary restrictions.

Entertainment

Snoopy and the gang have gone all of this year, with plenty of fun activities and entertainment to keep you dancing and singing the whole day through. Activities include pie making, dance parities, and Snoopy’s Boysenberry Jamboree. This energy filled extravaganza features your favorite Peanuts characters in an interactive revue celebrating spring and all things Charlie Brown.

The Easter Beagle is even making an appearance!

The Bird Cage Theater will be hosting classic melodramas, promised to have their own Boysenberry twists and turns. The show will feature interactive elements, comedy, and traditional dramatic flair. Originally opening in 1954, The Bird Cage has been home to a long standing history of melodramas, short plays, and one of a kind theater. In tribute to that history, this melodrama series is not to be missed.

Meanwhile, the kids can also find Snoopy and Friends over in Camp Snoopy for a special springtime camp out. Singing and dancing will commence while the youngest of Peanuts fans will get a chance to be a part of the show. It’s a cute and short way to get the whole family involved in the fun.

Merchandise

Whether you’re “just here for the food” or to pick up a limited time bottle of Boysenberry Cream Soda, there’s a lot out there to bring home with you to celebrate the berry festivities for weeks to come. There will be special boysenberry honey, fun knitted fashion, chocolate, and even some spicy sriracha boysenberry bacon jerky. This last one is a fiery and delicious snack that we highly recommend. You can find it directly across from the Ghost Town Grill and other various locations.

Take a closer look at some of this year’s merchandise offerings, which includes a comical and stylish Snoopy t-shirt.

The Boysenberry Festival will continue until April 8th. Don’t miss your chance to be part of one of the sweetest and most treasured food festivals in Southern California. Tickets and tasting cards are available at Knotts.Com or by visiting the park entrance.

Socalthrills.com

Disney and PerBlue Announce Disney Heroes: Battle Mode, an All-New Mobile Role-Playing Game (RPG)

Hot Topic Gears Up For Ready Player One

Check Out the Final of Hollywood’s Ready Player One Challenge

AMC Theatres Coming to Anaheim Gardenwalk in 2019!

Beachfront Luxury at Inn at the Pier in Pismo Beach

Star Wars The Last Jedi: Blu-Ray Review

READY PLAYER ONE Movie Review

Medieval Times’ New Dinner Show Dazzles and Amazes

D23 Expo 2019 Returns to Anaheim Where Disney’s Wonderful Worlds Come Together

The Book of Mormon returns to Segerstrom Center for the Arts

The Great LEGO Race Virtual Reality Kids Coaster Now Open At Legoland Florida

A Sweet Guide to Knott’s Berry Farm’s 2018 Boysenberry Festival

Latest Posts

Review “Legally Blonde: The Musical”

The Simpsons “Yellow Planet” Now on Disney+

Universal Studios Hollywood Hosts Virtual Studio Tour Auditions

Disney Unveils First Trailer for Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires

Spring Fun at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino

Knott’s Soak City Opens on May 17th