Public invited to share holiday cheer at free event on Dec. 16 supporting Toys for Tots, featuring historic steam locomotive, rail car display, and visit from Santa Claus
The public is invited to celebrate the spirit of the season and help those in need at the Holiday TrainFest and Toy Drive at Los Angeles Union Station on December 16, 2017.
The free, family-friendly event will take place from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Track 14 at Los Angeles Union Station, located at 800 N. Alameda St. in Los Angeles. Event highlights include holiday refreshments, a visit from Santa Claus, vintage rail cars, and an 874,346-pound steam locomotive decked out for the holidays. Staff will be on hand to collect donations of new, unwrapped toys in support of Toys for Tots and socks to assist the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority. Last year’s inaugural Holiday TrainFest drew families and train enthusiasts from across Southern California and more than 1,200 toys were collected during the four-hour event. This year’s event will continue to provide opportunities to brighten spirits and support those in need during the holidays.
Attendees will be able to:
• See the historic Santa Fe 3751 steam locomotive up close
• Tour vintage rail cars from the 1940s and 1950s decorated for the holidays
• Explore Amtrak® and Metrolink train cars
• Enjoy holiday refreshments, including hot cocoa and cookies, and holiday music
• Meet local police and firefighters and see a vintage 1930s-era fire engine, and
• Visit with Santa Claus
The Holiday TrainFest and Toy Drive is presented by the Los Angeles – San Diego – San Luis Obispo (LOSSAN) Rail Corridor Agency and Amtrak® Pacific Surfliner® in partnership with Metrolink, the San Bernardino Railroad Historical Society, L.A. Rail, the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Morlin Asset Management and Toys for Tots. The U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program collects new, unwrapped toys to distribute as holiday gifts to less fortunate children in the community.
Participants can travel to the event by train from points throughout southern California, including Orange County, Ventura County, San Bernardino and the Antelope Valley using Amtrak Pacific Surfliner or Metrolink service. Visit PacificSurfliner.com or MetrolinkTrains.com for additional information, including schedules and fares.
For more information about the Holiday TrainFest and Toy Drive at Los Angeles Union Station, visit PacificSurfliner.com/TrainFest.
Every time that Guillermo del Toro releases a film, it feels like an event. del Toro always takes the audience on a unique journey that gives us his perspective on the world around him in only the way that he could, and The Shape of Water is no different. Much like Pan’s Labyrinth before it, The Shape of Water is a beautiful dark fairy tale that whisks the viewer into a period setting, where they’re introduced to incredible creatures, fascinating characters, and a story that reflects as much on our modern world as it does our past. In fact, the way that del Toro has put this film together, there’s almost a timeless quality to it that is hypnotizing and familiar, while also feeling like a completely separate world. It’s a fine balancing act, but it should come as no surprise that del Toro handles it brilliantly, crafting a film that may be his magnum opus.
Set in the perfect period of life that is 1962, a mute woman named Elisa (Sally Hawkins) goes about her business day in and day out at a government facility in Baltimore. But one day, her repetitive life is shaken when the lab brings in a mysterious creature (Doug Jones) from South America. Against orders from Strickland (Michael Shannon), the shady government agent who brought the creature in, Elisa begins to bond with the creature, and soon realizes that she’s the only who can save him from what’s to come. Against all odds, Elisa devises a plan to save the creature, and in the process, possibly save herself from her humdrum life as she knows it.
The most fascinating thing that del Toro does with The Shape of Water, as mentioned above, is the timeless feel of the story. In so many ways, the perfect Americana feel of 1962, and the murkiness underneath is as relevant to how we see that time now, to what we’re currently living in. Baltimore features the perfect suburbs, the happy families, and a perfect tranquil life, but it’s also just as easily shaken by dark secrets, racism, and homophobia, while also looking over their shoulders at the Red Menace known as Russia. It’s easy to paint something like this in broad strokes, but del Toro doesn’t, and he truly delves into the psyche of the people in this world he’s created, and how these things are affecting each person.
It helps that the film is stacked with a phenomenal cast, with many giving what are easily their best performances to date. Sally Hawkins in particular shines like never before as Elisa, and the amount of emotion she’s able to convey with no words is simply incredible. She fully grabs the audience, making you feel everything she does, and it’s a one of a kind performance that you can’t help but fall in love with. With no words, Elisa has quickly become one of the most interesting and beautiful characters of the year, and maybe of del Toro’s entire filmography, and that’s all down to Hawkins’ stellar performance. Much the same can be said about Doug Jones who cannot go overlooked as the Creature. Jones is del Toro’s muse, playing creatures of all kinds for the director, and here he brings to life what may be his best performance. His relationship with Hawkins is truly riveting, and the fact that the two can convey so much affection for each other with no dialogue is just incredible. Jones is a unique talent, and much like Hawkins, it’s absolutely fascinating how much he can do with just a look and the way he moves, not a single line of dialogue needed.
But every film hero is only as good as their villain, who here is played by a rather unhinged, yet oddly charming Michael Shannon. The slightly deranged Strickland is perfectly in the wheelhouse that Shannon has created for himself, and del Toro gives him incredible dialogue to really bring out what is a truly great performance. You truly believe that this man, who sees himself as a tool of God, will do anything in his power to get what he wants, and it doesn’t matter what he has to take out in the process. But as far as those big three go, there are some fantastic supporting performances as well from Richard Jenkins, Octavia Spencer, and Michael Stuhlberg – – the latter of which has had an incredible year for himself between Fargo season three, this, and the Oscar hopeful Call Me By Your Name – – that really fill out the film. Each character is uniquely situated to play a part in the darkness underneath the film, and you can’t help but love each one of the characters. It’s always been a del Toro magic trick to make characters, either supporting or lead, who are not only interesting, but layered as well, and The Shape of Water continues that trend beautifully.
Of course, one thing that the audience has come to expect from any del Toro film is something that’s not only layered, but it has to be visually arresting as well. The Shape of Water is no exception, and del Toro borrows from some of his favorite monster films and creature features, creating a uniquely interesting feel to this world. While it may not feel as fantastical as Pan’s Labyrinth or Hellboy, it doesn’t need to. The world still feels unique to itself, and while at times it feels familiar, the moments that it becomes more striking and beautiful, the more it stands out in a big way. Grounding the film the way they did actually helps a lot, because it really does make the most beautiful moments pop off the screen when they happen, but one scene in particular of the creature standing in the middle of a movie theater really stands out among the rest because it’s a uniquely defining character moment. It’s done in such a beautiful way, and del Toro captures it perfectly in only the way he can.
It’s just great that del Toro uses this film, which in a lot of ways feels like his homage to The Creature from the Black Lagoon, as a sort of mouthpiece for what’s wrong with the world right now. The blatant hate or disregard for those that are different, whether they’re a different nationality, skin color, sexual orientation, or just plain different like Elisa, and how that will truly be our downfall. The Creature knowns no better about this world, and he sees Elisa as beautiful, not because of how she looks, but because of who she is. del Toro uses his platform to preach the simplest, but most effective of rules of life: treat others with respect. It’s quite simple, and yet human nature has continually pit us against each other for years, which really adds to the timelessness of the film, while also being a bit of a dour warning. The world isn’t perfect, and it doesn’t need to be, but we need to better than what we do to each other, and del Toro shows this in a way that doesn’t feel like it’s beating you over the head, but in a way that says wake up, we can’t do this to each other anymore. This film also really pushes the beauty of love, and the lengths it will push those who find it. But more than that, it also shows that love is blind, and it’s more important who you are than what you look like.
The Shape of Water is a truly beautiful film that is beautiful, heartbreaking, and wonderful all at once. A true dark fairy tale from the master Guillermo del Toro is not only one the year’s most unique offerings, but it’s one of the year’s best as well. Stacked with a fantastic cast, with Sally Hawkins and Doug Jones really standing out ahead of the pack, this is easily one of the most relatable and beautiful films of del Toro’s filmography to this point. In many ways, this may be he his best film, but even if you don’t find it that, you’re sure to find that this is easily a film you can fall in love with. This is a film that must be seen, and must be heard, because del Toro has truly poured his heart and soul into it.
With Super Mario™ Cereal, Nintendo and Kellogg’s® have teamed up to take fans on a breakfast odyssey that will continue long after the cereal box is empty. In addition to collectible Super Mario Odyssey™box art, each Super Mario Cereal box functions as an amiibo™ accessory, making breakfast a more playful experience.
“This powered-up partnership with Kellogg’s is another exciting way for us to expand the Nintendo brand in unique and creative ways,” said Tom Prata, Nintendo of America’s Senior Vice President of Strategic Initiatives. “We are always looking for new opportunities to bring smiles to people of all ages, and this is a fun way to kick off the day.”
The limited-edition cereal box will begin hitting store shelves across the U.S. as early as Dec. 11. Those playing the Super Mario Odyssey gamecan tap the cereal box on the Nintendo Switch™ system, like you would an amiibo, to receive gold coins or a heart in the game. Even the cereal itself has a Super Mario twist, with colorful power-up marshmallows and a blast of mixed berry flavor in every box.
“We are thrilled to pack so much fun into one box of cereal,” said Brad Schwan, Senior Director of Morning Foods Marketing. “The package adds value and excitement for fans, with marshmallow shapes in the cereal inspired by Super Mario power-ups to tie the theme together.”
Remember that Nintendo Switch features parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access. For more information about other features, visit http://www.nintendo.com/switch/.
The world-famous Queen Mary invites guests to embark on an international holiday expedition this winter with the unveiling of the all-new CHILL, open December 13, 2017 through January 7, 2018. Featuring the first-ever Ice Adventure Park in the U.S., the newly-inspired CHILL offers a rush of icy family fun with nightly entertainment throughout the park including international cultural celebrations, live music, Rockettes-style dance performances, fireworks, light shows, DJs, dancing, tasty food, a nightly Christmas Tree lighting ceremony and much more.
Experience the 38,000-square foot ice park honoring international holiday celebrations with one-of-a-kind entertainment and traditions of Germany, Switzerland, China, Russia, Holland, and the North Pole. Embark in traditional Chinese entertainment in CHILL’s version of the Forbidden City with nightly performances by Shaolin Monks and experience first-hand the beautiful rhythmic movements of the traditional Lion Dance. CHILL’s Kung Fu Forest will offer fireworks every Sunday night. Glide through the finish line of Shanghai Speedway nightly ($5 add on) on CHILL’s big wheel ice bikes. Saunter down Lantern Lane into the Lucky Bamboo and meet CHILL’s Panda Character for warm bear-hugs and unique selfie opportunities.
Take in the traditions of Germany with a stroll through CHILL’s Munich Market and raise a stein to the nightly live tunes from the authentic Alpine Band. Meet the ethereal Christkindle, the German gift bringer and bearer of lights, and shop traditional holiday trinkets and souvenirs at the nightly festive market. Cozy up in Switzerland’s Alpine Square by roasting marshmallows and building gooey s’mores at the toasty fire pit. Dine in the Alpine Lodge, open nightly, serving traditional Swiss bites overlooking the Matterhorn Mountain tubing slide and meet the gift bearer of the Alps, Sinterklaas, for photos and celebrations of the Twelfth Night.
Show off your best grooves as the DJ spins today’s top hits at the Russian Disco in CHILL’s Blizzard Boulevard. Experience the magic of the Northern Lights Show offered nightly at the Aurora Borealis Light show and meet the gift bringers of Russia, Father Frost and The Princess. Holland’s Windmill Way will offer nightly performances on the Illumination stage with hourly performances by Rockettes-style dancers and a nightly tree lighting ceremony. Meet the magical Father Time, Holland’s gift bearer who will share interesting facts on stargazing and how the Dutch discovered the telescope. Skate over to America’s North Polefor a visit and photo with Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus. Visit the Candy Bar to grab sweet treats for the little ones, and liquid candy sips for the adults.
The all-new CHILL also offers an opportunity to experience international fare. Tempt your taste buds with beverages and bites from around the globe including Germany’s Twisted Pretzel and Tasting Tavern and the Brat Haus. Pay tribute to Swiss delicacies with a visit to the Zurich Deli, the Fondue Pot, and the Alpine Lodge’s restaurant: Chateau Bar. Sip on traditional teas in China’s Zen Teahouse and the Hot Pot. Then warm up in the Russian Pierogi Paradise or the Stroganoff and Stew Pot. Curb your sweet tooth with gourmet donuts, make-your-own Gingerbread house or visit the Fire Pit to make holiday s‘mores.
CHILL pricing starts at $29.00 for adults (ages 9+) and $19.00 for kids. VIP Ultimate Expedition tickets are also available starting at $79.00 for adults (ages 9+) and $69.00 for kids. CHILL will run Dec. 13, 2017 – Jan. 7, 2018, excluding Dec. 31, 2017. For more information, including an entertainment schedule, hours of operation and to purchase tickets online, visit http://queenmary.com/chill/
Ever since reading John Steinbeck’s classic 1945 novel “Cannery Row,” I’ve dreamed of Monterey, California. The book’s imagery of old wooden piers, fish packing plants and colorful characters have lingered in my head for years. Add to this a yearning to also experience the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium and it’s easy to see why I was so excited to recently visit the town.
My Northern California getaway began on the way home from a stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea. While taking Highway 1 back, a friend and I decided to pull off in Monterey for some spontaneous fun. Exiting the freeway, we followed signs to Cannery Row, where we parked beneath an old building called “Aeneas Sardine Packing Company Cannery.” This was one of the last fish canneries built on Cannery Row, before the sardine industry collapsed in the mid-1940s.
Cannery Row is filled with great shopping, history and ocean veiws
We were now on the historic stretch of land from the book. As we walked down the street, which is now named Cannery Row, we past a few other old and colorful cannery buildings, such as the Monterey Canning Co and the Cannery Row Company, which have been turned into gift shops, coffee shops, clothe stores, restaurants and hotels, with nautical themes and references to the novel. We then grabbed an ice cream cone at a place called Dippin Dots and I read some local history.
The area began getting busy in the 1850s when Chinese fishing families crossed the Pacific in junks, settled at Point Ohlones (“China Point”) and helped establish Monterey’s fishing industry. After the Southern Pacific Rail Road arrived in the 1880s, the harbor began to grow and in the early 1900s the Monterey canning industry began, with the building of various canneries.
When World War I hit, the demand for fish products grew and additional canneries were erected and new fishing boats arrived. Then the Great Depression came and the industry was rocked, but managed to survive thanks to the usefulness of sardines as food and fertilizer.
The Cannery Row Monument is a tribute to the famous novel and people of the fishing industry
It was in this tumultuous period that Steinbeck drew inspiration for his masterpiece Cannery Row, which followed the exploits of down and out characters against a backdrop of brothels, flophouses, a Chinese grocery store and the laboratory of a marine biologist named Doc.
While touring town, we came to Steinbeck Plaza and found The Cannery Row Monument, which pays tribute to nine important characters that played pivotal roles in Cannery Row’s history, including John Steinbeck, marine biologist Ed “Doc” Ricketts and some of the Chinese fishermen who helped start the industry. The monument is located on a wooden pier, with incredible views of Monterey Bay.
Tiny shacks once used by local canning workers are preserved on Cannery Row
Across the street from the monument we bought a Monterey t-shirt at Mackerel Jack’s Trading Co. and then discovered some of the actual tiny, bungalow houses used by the early cannery workers. The simple, one-room shacks are well-preserved with original furniture and plaques on the outside to tell the stories of the Filipino, Japanese and Spanish workers who occupied them.
The pier on Cannery Row offers great food and views
At the end of the very busy and touristy Cannery Row street is the Monterey Bay Aquarium, where we spent a couple of hours visiting with sea otters, sharks, seahorses, tuna, penguins and thousands of other marine animals. In addition to changing special exhibitions, the facility’s acclaimed permanent exhibits include a towering three-story kelp forest; touch pools and other hands-on exhibits; the award-winning Splash Zone family galleries; and the million-gallon Open Sea exhibit.
As the aquarium’s largest exhibit, the Open Sea is highlighted by a 90-ft window which offers a front row seat to huge tuna and sharks, glittering schools of sardines, and slow-moving sea turtles. Nearby, colorful puffins await their next meal, and brilliant jellies pulse through the water.
The Monterey Aquarium showcases ocean life in incredible exhibits
The Kelp Forest is another must-see. This 28-ft-high exhibit is one of the tallest Aquarium exhibits in the world and offers unique views of sardines, leopard sharks, wolf-eels and a host of other fishes as they weave through swaying fronds of kelp.
For more information on visiting Monterey and Cannery Row, visit: www.seemonterey.com or www.canneryrow.com. For more information on the aquarium, go to: www.montereybayaquarium.org
Now that Oogie Boogie and the spooky haunts have officially vacated Disneyland, Santa Claus and Mickey have decked the halls and castle with their seasonal best. Christmas has arrived and will be with us until January here at the Disneyland Resort.
The Christmas Fantasy Parade has returned along with many seasonal favorites that span both parks that take over the majority of the park in holiday splendor. Though not much has changed from year’s past, you may find a few hidden gems and surprises sprinkled in with the familiar.
Toys for all the children!
One of my personal favorites is the addition of holiday themed movie posters in Cars Land. Similar to the Halloween overlay, we get a punny look at Disney classics that really steal the show. Luigi and Mater also have their share of holiday magic with Christmas overlays of both attractions.
These posters are fantastic!
Back in Disneyland, you can still visit Haunted Mansion Holiday and now can trek down to Disneyana to get a replica of this year’s iconic gingerbread house. Though it isn’t rose gold, it’s bound to catch a few eyes for those hardcore Disney collectors.
You can also find some nice “Nightmare” themed ornaments for sale.
Speaking of collections, Disneyland has finally brought back some more vintage Mickey designs for their Christmas accessories and merchandise. The past few years have been heavily dominant to a more Victorian sense of style and I am so glad to see some more classic Disney touches to the stockings, tree skirts, and items you can bring home for your own holiday designs.
Moving past the glitz and glamour of the storefront windows, another important thing to remember during the season is food. In Disney California Adventure, The Festival of Holidays has come back with a tour of various food and drink to enjoy. For $45, Annual Passholders also get to grab a “Sip and Savor Pass” that gives them 8 food/drink vouchers that can be used for any of the booths at the festival (excludes alcohol).
I was able to try the Baked Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, Braised Lamp Cheeks, and Holiday Mickey and Minnie Cookies. There are plenty of foods I want to go back and try, creating a great incentive to visit the parks more than just once.
Candy, Chocolate, and Coco!
During Halloween time, I made a habit of trying something new each weekend. From the bison burger to the hot mac and cheese cone, I had no complaints. Trader Sam’s is definite on the holiday list, along with a yule log, and potentially any other chocolate or peppermint offering they can throw at me. Christmas is the perfect excuse to drink and be merry!
This past weekend was my first trip back and I still love every moment of it. This time of year, though very crowded, is comforting and special. I can’t wait to venture back in and see what else I can discover.
It makes me also think about how things will be with years to come. Change is just around the corner, and though Christmas time is a reliable constant at Disney Parks, there are new additions that are bound to take center stage. Viva Navidad over in Paradise Pier is a great example of that. Though still a new concept, it’s a beautiful display of cultural immersion and spectacle that has become an annual tradition. It’s something I have really learned to appreciate.
Disney California Adventure is a great platform for new ideas and I would love to see more diverse options in the next few years. The Festival of Holiday’s inclusion of various music and performance art from around the world is a testament to that. It’s a positive message that really deserves to be noted.
Meanwhile, Disneyland has let go of some of it’s newer additions by axing Jingle Cruise this year. Though the initial year’s launch didn’t float everyone’s boat, the second year really turned some heads.
I’m really sad to see all those holiday puns go down the drain, but maybe there will be some new risks and chances for future holiday fun. As long as we don’t see Disney acknowledge the Star Wars Holiday Special (which doesn’t exist in my universe) when Galaxy’s Edge debuts, I am perfectly ready to see what’s coming next.
Disney Pixar’s newest animated film, Coco, is filled with Latin culture and traditions. The press conference began with a surprise folkloric dance with mariachi.
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Across the cast, everyone was humbled by the opportunity to share the Latin tradition of Dia de Los Muertos with the world. We had the opportunity to meet with the cast, producers, and directors to hear how Coco came to fruition.
The panel began with the host directing the questions and then opened the floor for those invited to the event to ask questions. The host began by asking how the cast felt about the premier of the film, premiered at El Capitan Theater. The cast felt like they were on Cloud Nine from the modern cultural masterpiece.
So how did Coco come to fruition? Lee Unkrich and Adrian Molina discus this topic:
LEE UNKRICH: So Darla, and Adrian, and I all worked on Toy Story III together. And when we finished that film, I started to think about what was next, and I had a few different ideas that I was kicking around. And one of them was the idea of telling a story set against Dia de Mortos. I had always been interested in the tradition, and I spent some time doing some research, and really trying to understand more than I already knew. And the more that I dug in, the more that I learned about how central family is to this celebration, and that Dia de Mortos is, you know, is all about this obligation that we all have to remember our loved ones, and to pass their stories along. And I just really started to see the potential to tell a unique story, to tell a story that could only be told in animation, that could be visually dazzling, but also had the potential to have a real emotional core to it. And that was really kind of the beginning of this journey. And we immediately headed down to Mexico and started – went on the first of what proved to be many lengthy research trips, to spend time learning about the traditions, learning about the culture, and spending a lot of time with many beautiful families down in Mexico.
HOST: Interesting. Adrian, for you, having a Mexican background, how does it feel to be writing and co-directing this film?
ADRIAN MOLINA: It has been a pleasure. It has been, you know, the highlight of my career up to this point. I started on the film about a year and a half to two years into the production. I had finished the storyboarding on Monsters University, and it just one of those ideas that ticked off so many things, or checked off the boxes of so many things that I’ve always wanted to see in a film – that it deals so strongly with this idea of family, Miguel and his musical passion, and especially the expression of these Mexican traditions. You know, it’s one of those things that I felt like I had a lot of experience to bring to it, and also just the – the way we work at Pixar, it’s such a collaborative effort, and to be able to work with all of these actors, all of these musicians, and to really bring to life this culture on screen was something that I was thrilled by.
We got to hear from the voice of Miguel, Anthony Gonzalez, about his experience with his first movie.
ANTHONY GONZALEZ: Oh, well, I just really loved the making of it. I loved being with Lee, Darla and Adrian in the booth, and other people. And there was just so much fun, because it was very easy for me because I had the guidance of them three, and it was just – it was like a breeze for me, and it was just so much fun doing the voice of Miguel.
Anthony Gonzalez is a talented and ambitious 13 year old. This is one of the reasons why he landed the role. Lee explains his experience with Anthony Gonzalez auditioning for the role of Miguel.
LEE UNKRICH: At his very first audition, you know, we had him read a bunch of scenes, script pages. And then when we were all done, he took out a CD, and he said, “I brought a song I want to sing to you.” And at that point, we didn’t even know if Miguel was going to be singing in the movie, so that wasn’t part of the audition. And unfortunately, we didn’t have a CD player that day, where we were. So Anthony, true to his great spirit just said, “Oh, well, whatever – I’ll just sing it a cappella.” And he launched into this beautiful, like, 10 minute long, sweet rendition of this song, sung just to the few of us. And you know, we were already wowed by his audition, and then that just really sealed the deal.
Coco showcases a lot of Latin culture, specifically Mexican culture, throughout the entire film. So how did the rest of the cast feel about the opportunity to share their culture? We got to hear from Gael Barcia Bernal, voice of Hector, and Edward James Olmos, voice of Chicharron.
GAEL BARCIA BERNAL: Oh, wow, it – I mean, it is such a privilege to be here, I mean, to be now, right now, talking to you, to be talking about the movie, to know the result of it, because it is – it is always an act of faith in a way, no? I mean, and then
you get invited to – when I got the invitation to meet with Lee, with Adrian, and with Darla and talk about the movie, I remember how already I was so convinced about it, you know, before going into the meeting with them. And after the meeting, I was just amazed by the amount of research; also the incorporation – the – kind of like the holistic kind of approach that they were trying to do to the Day of the Dead celebration, that they were also putting forth a very personal point of view, as well – which ultimately, personal point of views are what make a movie good, you know – is what makes a movie good. And I was willing to jump into that, into that trip, you know, and to interpret that point of view. And now the results – I’m just – you know, I’m – it has transcended all my expectations. And this is what happens when the film becomes good, as well, but there’s nothing you can expect that will match a result when a film is good. It’s just – it overcomes it, you know, it’s impressive. So I mean, I’m really happy for, and proud, and lucky to be part of this, with all this great team, with all this collaborative effort, me being a little part of it, being able to put forth, as well, into the world, a very, you know, story, a little fable about a mythology, and a tradition that I hold very dearly, like the other mortals, and that – very proud, as well, that Mexico can give this to the world, you know, and everyone in the world can adopt this tradition, this reflection on death – you know, which is a very, very important thing to do, I think, in life.
EDWARD JAMES OLMOS: when they asked me to play the role, I was privileged. I mean, this became a real honor, because it – that character is what the story is. I mean, every single person in the room that’s seen that movie understands very well that what it means is if you don’t remember your loved ones, they’re gone. If you don’t tell the stories of that loved one, they cease to exist. And it was that simple. And so when I ended up – they asked me to do it, I said, “Of course. It’d be my honor.”… And as it went along, and I – then my part came in, and I said, “Oh, my God,” I emotionally – I felt emotional for this guy. And Chicharron became, within a matter of a minute and a half to two minutes, became someone that I could identify with, you know – a relative, a friend, a person, that – and is said, “Wow.” … It’s gonna take that long for it to resonate throughout the planet, and really take hold of what art does to people in their subconscious mind, and what it does to – I mean, people who have never – are gonna see this movie, are gonna come out really moved, especially if you haven’t thought about your parents, or you haven’t thought about your loved ones, and you haven’t really gotten into your own family, and you haven’t – you’ve been too busy living your life, that you haven’t gone back to even say thank you.
Coco is a very touching movie that will make you feel the love for your family and friends. The cast talks about how they felt about the movie. Alanna Ubach, voice of Mama Imelda, shares her experience about sharing the film with her family.
ALANNA UBACH: Waterworks. I was sitting in between my husband, and my mother. And I told my mother that I had a surprise for her, because she used to sing [PH] Laorona to me when I was a little girl, in order to make me go to sleep. Laorona will put you to sleep if you don’t go to sleep. No – that’s another story. But I was – I kept telling her, “I have this surprise for you.” And she said, “Oh, I can’t wait. I love surprises.” And so the lights dim, and she’s watching it, and she sees Coco, the [PH] Awella for the first time, and she says, “Aye, [PH] yo [PH] Solana.” You’re Coco. I’m like, “No, no, no, Mom. Just keep watching.” She said, “Okay.” I watched her cry, like three times, and then Miguel is finally introduced. “Ay – Alanna, you’re Miguel? You’re the voice of Miguel.” I’m like, “No, Mom, keep watching. Keep watching.” And finally Laorona came on, and it was just waterworks.
The press had the opportunity to ask the cast some questions. Since Coco was an evolving story that was in production for about 6 years we were curious to know how Miguel’s role as a musician developed.
PRESS: Can you talk a little bit about, you know, when you went in to record your music part, you know, how did you feel, and were you thinking about some of your own family members when you sang your songs?
LEE UNKRICH: Well, to just quickly answer the first part of it – from the very beginning, this was an evolving story. We went down a lot of different paths. I think we always knew that Miguel was going to be a musician that he’d be playing the guitar, but we didn’t know that he was going to be singing, necessarily. So at the time that we auditioned Anthony, you know, we weren’t sure of that. But once we knew he could sing we tried to take full advantage of his talents.
ANTHONY GONZALEZ: Okay. Well, when I knew that I was going to sing that day in the booth, I would get so excited, because you know, I love to sing, and especially these wonderful songs that Adrian Molina, Germaine Franco, and other people made – they’re just, they’re just incredible messages. They send incredible messages, and they’re just incredible lyrics that – I love to sing, like Pragardocon, I just love the rhythm, and the melody, and the lyrics, like, “Remember me” – it’s very sentimental. And for me, my grandfather passed away when I was six years old, and he was very special to me because he would always support me in my music career. And so yeah, every time I would come to sing like, songs, it would remind me of him, and it would make me feel like he was there, and he was present with me.
The film is out on November 22, 2017. A perfect time during the Thanksgiving holiday for families to experience this heart-warming film. Coco is filled with surprises that have an emotional core around family values while being a visually appealing film.
It’s long past due for Disney, Pixar and other film production companies to tap into cultural myths beyond those common in Eurocentric storytelling. Moana built upon it beautifully. Now Mexican culture gets a healthy dose of its own with Coco.
Young Mexican Miguel wants to pursue the life of a musician, isolating himself often to practice his guitar stringing. When Miguel’s family consistently negates his desire to chase his dreams, an act of selfishness sends him through to the Land of the Dead. A journey that redefines what Miguel chases in life, the young boy must reconnect with his deceased family members all the while trying to prove he can play music.
A few problems persist with the opening of the film’s narrative. Young Miguel wants to play music but his family, and specifically his abuelita (grandmother) want him to have no part of that. The sordid past isn’t fully fleshed out until later, a fine storytelling device, but the decision to make the family so adamantly against the idea of music itself is a little too hollow. The opening 15-20 minutes of storytelling – a boy chasing his “destiny” – left me concerned it may have been misguided, only using the holiday as “exotic” set dressing to accompany the film. The journey Miguel takes to play music also beckons a cognitive dissonance in how the story materializes. There is no immediate correlation to Miguel’s desire to play music and familial struggle. But something happens to Coco when Miguel winds up in the Land of the Dead. A bridge of flowers, blacklight creature designs, sugar skulls galore and a genuine appreciation for a life long after death. I won’t divulge how Coco does it, and the opening does still stumble in its execution, but the melding of song, history and family perfectly encapsulates the very idea of Dia de los Muertos.
As a Mexican writer, it warms my heart to see our celebrations and traditions brought to life with such astounding visual panache. Dia de los Muertos is about celebrating life after death for those we’ve lost, while also remembering their lives on this plane of existence. Often in media, my country is portrayed with only dirt roads and pavement. There are never attempts to truly capture the beauty enriching the culture or its people. Life is vibrant, colorful and bombastic and rarely more so than on the celebration of Dia de los Muertos. As as are the supporting characters, all of whom feel fleshed out in their own way with purpose or at the very least a fascinating visual design.
The incorporation of music is ultimately vital to the story and its representations. A score by Michael Giacchino accentuates necessary components but original songs by Germaine Franco and Adrian Molina drive a purposeful beauty to the world. This is a story of Mexican culture by focusing on our most marketable holiday. If a corporate decision like this had to be made, it’s at least filled with wonder and treated with respect. It’s the least they could do. Them going the extra mile just gives it that extra push.
Also appreciated is the consistent Spanglish delivered from the characters. There are no subtitles for anybody not understanding the shifting tongues of people talking in the film. It merely is a fabric of the universe, as it is our own. It relegates an authenticity to my people who often do not get a time to shine in the spotlight. An entirely Mexican cast do wondrous voice work here, never delegating us to stereotypes or cardboard cutouts.
There is a sense of history in the world and its characters. Miguel’s journey isn’t strictly about disregarding family to pursue his dream (lest he suffer the wrath of the chancla). The journey in Coco is, at its core, coming to terms with the foundations of family, history and one’s place within it. You can’t build a future without learning of and from the past. The present brings all threads together as they forge onward to a unified future.
There are minor instances in regards to the plot driven aspects of images and photos though those seem like narrative restructuring than anything entirely world breaking. Nonetheless, this movie will be on constant plays throughout Mexican households and it warrants every single viewing. If anything, Coco plays in a visual sandbox where character, theme and emotion triumph over nitpicking any plot logic. Emotion, history and death don’t make much sense anyways. It’s exactly how it should be.
Lets get this straight out the gate: Justice League is a messy little film at times. However, just because it’s a mess doesn’t mean that it’s not an incredibly fun film that’s easy to fall in love with. There’s a certain charm to seeing Batman, Wonder Woman, The Flash, Aquaman, and Cyborg finally sharing the screen together, in a film that clearly loves these characters and the different parts of the DC Universe that they inhabit. It’s just too bad that the studio mandated a run time that cuts into the story and leaves the film’s story and villain paper-thin. What could be a truly great film is regulated to being more of a fun Saturday matinee film, but honestly, maybe that’s exactly what this needed to be.
After the death of Superman in Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice, Justice League finds Batman leading a lone crusade to stop the future from becoming the nightmare he envisioned of a post apocalyptic world. With the guilt of Superman’s death weighing on him, Bruce realizes he can’t stop the incoming threat alone, so he must turn to the few super powered heroes he has been able to locate for help. Every minute counts as the villainous Steppenwolf draws closer to retrieving the Three Mother boxes on Earth that will let him reshape the world to his hellscape. Together Batman, Wonder Woman, The Flash, Aquaman, and Cyborg must band together in the name of Superman to save the world and stop Steppenwolf once and for all.
The plot really is as thin as they come, but honestly, that’s ok. Because what Justice League lacks in plot it makes up for in its characters and their interactions. Zack Snyder and Warner Bros. have assembled an excellent cast to bring these iconic DC characters to life. Fans who were eager to see more of Batman and Wonder Woman are going to be pleased that Ben Affleck and Gal Gadot truly shine throughout the film. They’re the rock solid bedrock the film is built on, and both really truly bring their A game to these characters once more. But more importantly, it’s Ezra Miller, Jason Mamoa, and Ray Fisher who truly get a chance to shine as the newcomers Flash, Aquaman, and Cyborg. Miller in particular steals just about every scene he’s in as Barry Allen, which was a very pleasant surprise as that was going to be the hardest part to sell with the TV series version to compete with. This version of Barry is a bit more of a fast talking, socially awkward take on the character who is not only incredibly smart, but incredibly funny as well. Ezra Miller was born to be The Flash, and if we walk away from Justice League learning anything, it’s that this Flash clearly deserves his own film.
But this film truly works because of the team ensemble, as the core players are all clearly loving to not only be together, but being a part of this universe. This movie hinged on whether you could buy the cast together, and if they gelled as a unit, and if the characters could even blend together. Shared universes are already a tricky balancing act, but thankfully Justice League doesn’t feel forced together, and more like a natural conclusion to the story started in Batman v. Superman. The narrative makes sense, and the cast truly sells a world that’s lost and hopeless without Superman. Each character has their own personal demons behind them that help push for a greater good in the world, and that alone makes them standing together in the shadow of Superman both a truly beautiful and heroic thing.
Though Justice League is a ton of fun, and the cast is great, it would be a lie to ignore the film’s glaring issues, or which it does have. The forced run time of under two hours is a huge issue for the film’s narrative and pace, as the film really never gets a chance to breathe in a way that would be hugely beneficial. All the characters are so excellent together that you want to spend more time with the, and the issue is, there’s no downtime for them to really get to interact where they can just get to know each other. Likewise, the shorter run time also makes Steppenwolf come off as a third-rate mustache twirling villain with no real rhyme or reason for what he’s doing. It’s clear that his plot line especially was truncated down by the studio’s mandated run time, which is incredibly frustrating. You don’t need to make him overly complex, but at least give him something to do than yell, “Mother box!” over and over again. While on Steppenwolf, it should also be noted that he’s one of the weakest CGI characters to be in a film in recent memory. Something about the character’s rendering feels off, so he feels overly fake the entire time, which makes for a rather jarring experience.
Still, getting past the problems, Justice League is a really fun time at the theater. The cast is great, and with Snyder’s visual flair and the dialogue of Joss Whedon, the movie truly feels like a special collaboration of sorts. While it doesn’t always fully come together, it works more often than it doesn’t, and to see the team interacting for the first time in live action truly is a geek dream. The good really outweighs the bad, and it’s safe to say that those who have had possibly had a problem with the DC Universe films up to this point may walk away pleasantly surprised by this film. Between Justice League and Wonder Woman, it’s clear that the DC films are headed in a much more optimistic and fun direction, and it’s a great look for the series. Keep an open mind, and give Justice League a shot, you just might be glad you did.
Tervis, the innovative drinkware company long loved for its fresh and expressive designs, continues to revolutionize the industry with its latest, tech-enabled product that redefines the everyday drinking experience. Through the use of a free augmented reality (AR) app, a computer-generated image is superimposed onto your cup, creating a technologically-enhanced —and incredibly fun— new view of everyone’s favorite American-made tumbler.
[videopress YVsPwIPu]
Now available, the first design, featuring a gingerbread man wreaking havoc on gingerbread houses, is perfect for the holiday season. Simply download the free Tervis AR app and sit back and watch this cute little gingerbread man giggle, eat cookies, and have his belly expand as he prances his way around the cup.
“Tervis was the inventor of insulted drinkware back in 1946,” says Tervis President Rogan Donelly. “We continue to be the leader by introducing new technology and ideas to make our drinkware experience enjoyable and personable for our fans.”
Like all Tervis drinkware, this product keeps your hot drinks hot, cold drinks cold, unbreakable, and dishwasher safe. It comes with the Tervis Lifetime Guarantee and made in America.
Powered by Vuforia, this first Tervis AR offering is a limited edition Gingerbread design that retails for $19.99. It’s available now on tervis.com and Tervis company stores.
Ahead of its U.S. debut on Nov. 22, Pixar’s Coco is already breaking records in its first international market, Mexico, where today it will become the #1 film of all time in local currency.
Through Nov. 14 (19 days of release), Coco has taken in 824M pesos and will today pass the 827M pesos earned by The Avengers during its entire run. The film debuted Oct. 27 and has held the #1 spot at the box office for its first three consecutive weeks. At current exchange rates, the Mexico gross translates to $43.1M in USD.
Coco opens day and date with the U.S. in its first additional international markets China (Nov. 23) and Russia (Nov. 24). The film is currently at a spectacular 96% Fresh on RottenTomatoes.
Hollywood’s legendary El Capitan Theatre presents a special engagement of Disney•Pixar’s COCO November 22 to December 10, shown in brilliant Dolby VisionTM Laser Projection & Dolby Atmos® Sound Technology. Tickets are now on sale at www.elcapitantickets.com, by calling 1-800-DISNEY6 and at The El Capitan Theatre box office.
“From the moment the El Capitan Theatre guests experience our all-new COCO inspired Curtain Show they will be swept away on a musical adventure,” said Ed Collins, General Manager of The El Capitan Theatre.
The Curtain Show, a fiesta of lights featuring music and imagery of Disney•Pixar’s COCO, will only be seen at The El Capitan Theatre. The presentation also includes the all-new featurette OLAF’S FROZEN ADVENTURE.
Collins continued, “After the featurette, Olaf himself will appear live on stage – also only at the El Capitan Theatre. And from November 21 to 26, see the Grammy Award Winning MARIACHI DIVAS as seen at Disneyland live on stage with BALLET FOLKLORICO LOS ANGELES as guests enter our theatre during the first week. There’s just no better place than The El Capitan Theatre to enjoy Disney•Pixar’s latest masterpiece.”
On Tuesday November 21, 2017 be amongst the first to experience the new film from Disney•Pixar as part of the COCO Special Opening Night at the El Capitan Theatre with raffle prizes & more surprises! Each ticket will include an exclusive poster, a reserved seat, popcorn in a souvenir tub, and 20 oz bottled beverage.
Daily showtimes are 10:00AM, 1:15PM, 4:30PM, 7:45PM, and 10:50PM* (*10:50PM Show Opening Weekend, Nov. 22 ‐ 26, plus Fridays & Saturdays following.) Showtimes and dates are subject to change. Special group rates for Disney•Pixar’s COCO of $12 for parties of 20 or more are available by calling 1-818-845-3110.
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MOVIE & MEAL with HARD ROCK CAFÉ – Park Once – Enjoy Twice. Book a Movie & Meal Package with the El Capitan Theatre and the Hard Rock Café! For one low price of $40.00 per person. Reservations are required in advance (24 hrs – business days). RESERVED SEAT ONLY – NO CONCESSIONS INCLUDED. Guests will be directed to go to HARD ROCK CAFÉ after their movie. Guests will select their entrée upon their arrival at the restaurant. Menu items cannot be substituted. Tax & Gratuity Included. Additional items, including alcohol, are not included and if ordered, will be paid for by the guest at the time of service.
The El Capitan Theatre will also host TINY TOT TUESDAYS during the first shows on November 28 and December 6; during these special screenings, parents and small children may enjoy the movie in a tot-friendly way—with lights dimmed rather than out and reduced sound levels.65[]’
Disney Legend, author and Cal State Fullerton alumna Martha Blanding will speak at a CSUF commencement ceremony for the College of Humanities and Social...
you get invited to – when I got the invitation to meet with Lee, with Adrian, and with Darla and talk about the movie, I remember how already I was so convinced about it, you know, before going into the meeting with them. And after the meeting, I was just amazed by the amount of research; also the incorporation – the – kind of like the holistic kind of approach that they were trying to do to the Day of the Dead celebration, that they were also putting forth a very personal point of view, as well – which ultimately, personal point of views are what make a movie good, you know – is what makes a movie good. And I was willing to jump into that, into that trip, you know, and to interpret that point of view. And now the results – I’m just – you know, I’m – it has transcended all my expectations. And this is what happens when the film becomes good, as well, but there’s nothing you can expect that will match a result when a film is good. It’s just – it overcomes it, you know, it’s impressive. So I mean, I’m really happy for, and proud, and lucky to be part of this, with all this great team, with all this collaborative effort, me being a little part of it, being able to put forth, as well, into the world, a very, you know, story, a little fable about a mythology, and a tradition that I hold very dearly, like the other mortals, and that – very proud, as well, that Mexico can give this to the world, you know, and everyone in the world can adopt this tradition, this reflection on death – you know, which is a very, very important thing to do, I think, in life.
