Twilight Zone™ Tower of Terror Begins its Final Check-out Celebration

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August 30, 2016

Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort offers two new reasons for guests to visit this year––a special celebration at The Twilight Zone™ Tower of Terror with a chance to “drop in” like never before, and the debut of the “Frightfully Fun Parade” at Mickey’s Halloween Party, a separate-ticket event. The parade features some popular Disney villains and a procession of grim, grinning ghosts, while The Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow appears for the first time at Mickey’s Halloween Party.

Those treats add to the family-friendly thrills, popular seasonal attractions and spooky decor that make Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort so magical. The season runs from Friday, Sept. 9, through Monday, Oct. 31, offering the popular Haunted Mansion Holiday and Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy attractions, themed foods and merchandise, plus spirited decor that features a giant Mickey Mouse jack-‘o-lantern on Main Street, U.S.A.

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror Final Check-out Celebration at Disney California Adventure Park

The invitation to check into the Hollywood Tower Hotel is even more urgent now as The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror approaches its final check-out date, Jan. 2, 2017. A special tribute begins Sept. 9 to salute the haunted hotel’s eerie story and exciting adventure at Disney California Adventure Park. During the celebration, guests who arrive after twilight will enjoy “Late Check-Out”–-a chance to venture beyond the fifth dimension into complete darkness. It’s something guests have never experienced before: free-falling in the attraction’s haunted elevator shaft with all the lights out.

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror celebration also includes special musical performances, commemorative merchandise and specialty food and beverage items. Performing at the Hollywood Tower Hotel are the Silver Lake Sisters, characters from the story of this famous hotel who once performed at its rooftop lounge. The sisters make their return to the Hollywood Hotel during Halloween season.

Spooky Halloween Traditions at Disneyland Park

Throughout the Halloween season, guests will find special treats and thrilling traditions. Haunted Mansion Holiday returns to celebrate the collision between Halloween and Christmas, and a familiar guest moves into the Mansion: Jack Skellington from the Walt Disney Pictures classic “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.”

Jack Skellington brings a unique spark to the season and, for the first time, his friend Sally joins him in the Mansion graveyard.
The annualHaunted Mansion Holiday gingerbread house is back with a new theme. This year’s version appears to have been stitched together from pieces of other gingerbread houses and treats. In fact, the ghoulish architect has stitched himself inside the house, and one green arm still may be spotted, sewing the walls together around him.
Another Halloween favorite isSpace Mountain Ghost Galaxy, a Halloween-themed reimagining of the popular thrill ride in Tomorrowland, at Disneyland. Guests on board the speeding Space Mountain vehicles are thrust into a ghostly galaxy where they are bombarded with eerie screams, sound effects and music. Spine-chilling spirits pop out of the darkness, appearing to reach out to menace the space travelers.
The traditional Mexican celebration,“Dia de los Muertos,” is observed with a skeleton display in Frontierland, near Rancho del Zocalo restaurant.
As a special, after-dark treat during the Halloween season, guests visiting Disneyland on select nights will enjoy the“Fantasy in the Sky” fireworks spectacular.
During the day, the dynamic“Mickey’s Soundsational Parade” marches down Main Street, U.S.A., throughout Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort.

Mickey’s Halloween Party

New this year at Mickey’s Halloween Party is the premiere of the “Frightfully Fun Parade,” seen exclusively on the 17 nights of this separately ticketed event at Disneyland.

The Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow (from the Disney animated classic “The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad”) brings a warning to guests, riding through the park on his ghostly black steed with a flickering jack-‘o-lantern.
Shortly afterward, the parade begins with greetings from Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King from Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas.”
Grim, grinning (and hitchhiking) ghosts follow along in the procession, joined by other spirits from the iconic Haunted Mansion attraction.
Inspired by Disney’s “The Princess and the Frog,” the creepy Dr. Facilier calls on mystical powers, summoning his Shadow Men from the bayou to loom large over his strange and twisted Voodoo parlor.
Mischievous Disney villains appear out of the darkness, ready to stir up some trouble, and their wicked gathering includes the Evil Queen, Jafar and Cruella.

Mickey’s Halloween Party guests are invited to visit in costume and trick-or-treat throughout Disneyland for candy and healthy snacks. An extra special treat is the “Halloween Screams” fireworks spectacular, presented exclusively for guests of Mickey’s Halloween Party and hosted by “Master of Scare-omonies” Jack Skellington.

Tickets for Mickey’s Halloween Party* may be purchased online and on mobile devices at Disneyland.com/party, as well as at the Disneyland Resort main gate and by phone at 714-781-4400. Guests may check for availability for the 17 nights: Friday, Sept. 23; Monday, Sept. 26, Wednesday, Sept. 28; Friday, Sept. 30; Monday, Oct. 3; Wednesday, Oct. 5; Friday, Oct. 7; Monday, Oct. 10;Wednesday, Oct. 12; Friday, Oct. 14; Monday, Oct. 17; Wednesday, Oct. 19; Friday, Oct. 21; Monday, Oct. 24; Wednesday, Oct. 26; Saturday, Oct. 29; and Monday, Oct. 31, Halloween night. Online and mobile purchases are not available the day of the event. Parking is not included in the ticket price, and parking fees will apply.

Tickets purchased in advance are available at a discount for select nights. Tickets purchased on the day of the event are $89 each. All tickets to Mickey’s Halloween Party on Saturday, Oct. 29, and Monday, Oct. 31, are $99 each. Mickey’s Halloween Party is a non-smoking event. Smoking is permitted only in the Esplanade outside the Disneyland main entrance.

Wizarding World of Harry Potter Brings More Magic to Universal Studios

By

Greg Aragon, Writer Greg's Getaway

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August 29, 2016

Every magical kingdom needs a good castle, and with the addition of “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” attraction, Universal Studios Hollywood now has one of the best I’ve seen this side of Transylvania or even Hogwarts.

Opened in April of this year, the attraction is inspired by J.K. Rowling’s world-famous stories and characters that were brought to life in eight Warner Bros. films. “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” has been masterfully recreated with impeccable detail as a real-world interpretation at Universal Studios Hollywood. The land, which took five years to create, is faithful to the visual landscape found in the movies and books, including Hogwarts castle which serves as the main focal point.

The highlight of the scary fairytale land is the ride “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.” A pioneering achievement in theme park ride technology, the virtual reality coaster is designed in hyper-realistic 3D-HD to fully immerse guests inside the young, bespectacled wizard’s world. The multidimensional thrill ride features groundbreaking robotics, fused with elaborate filmed action sequences and immersive visceral effects.

In this updated adaptation of the ride, guests sport Quidditch-inspired 3D goggles as they venture through journeys experienced by Harry and his friends, spiraling and pivoting 360-degrees along an elevated ride track. To get to the ride itself, guests wait in a line that meanders through Hogwarts Castle. While waiting their turn, visitors can admire talking portraits and newspapers, medieval architecture and all things Harry Potter.

“I am delighted to see ‘The Wizarding World of Harry Potter’ brought to life in a way that is so close to what I imagined when writing the books,” says J.K. Rowling. “I’m thrilled that Harry Potter fans can now experience the wonderful immersive experience created at Universal Studios Hollywood.”

I experienced the new attraction this week and was blown away by the special effects of the “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” and by the stunning design of the entire enchanting village. From snow-capped roofs and cobblestone streets to an historic British feel, the land is charming, whimsical and is right out of the movies.

To get to “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” I just looked for the giant castle peaks rising above the park and followed them to a large archway, where two gargoyle statures of hogs with wings are standing guard. Upon entering the land of Hogsmeade, I found everything one would expect in a quaint little village. There was merchants hard at work, a train conductor welcoming new arrivals and lots of authentic food and beverages to sample at multiple locations.

Tasty highlights of “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” the eateries Three Broomsticks, Hog’s Head pub, and Butterbeer carts, all of which are serving up delicious and fun fare. Prepared by Universal Studios Hollywood’s executive chef and culinary team, the eclectic British menu includes Bangers & Mash; Shepherd’s Pie; Beef Sunday Roast (prime rib of beef with Yorkshire pudding and gravy), Beef, Lamb & Guinness Stew; and Fish & Chips. Rounding the menu are decadent treats such as Butterbeer potted cream and sticky toffee pudding.

Also within “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter,” is the fun, family coaster, “Flight of the Hippogriff.”

Other rides and attractions at Universal Studios include renowned, behind-the-scenes Studio Tour featuring the intense “King Kong 360 3-D” attraction and the “Fast & Furious—Supercharged” thrill ride; the 3D-HD adventure “Transformers: The Ride-3D,” “Revenge of the Mummy—The Ride,” “Jurassic Park —The Ride,” and “The Simpsons Ride.”

Universal Studios is located at 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608. The Studio Tour is included with all theme park admission. For more information on current pricing, specials and hours, visit: www.universalstudioshollywood.com

All-New ‘Frightfully Fun Parade’ to Debut During Mickey’s Halloween Party at Disneyland Park

By

Robbie Bulus

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August 29, 2016

Beginning this year, you’re are invited to gather for chills and thrills when the all-new “Frightfully Fun Parade” takes to the streets at Disneyland® Park, featuring a spectacle of spooky spirits from the deepest bayous of New Orleans to Halloweentown and beyond.

The Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow sets the mood as he arrives on his ghostly black steed just ahead of the parade itself, carrying a flickering jack-o-lantern as a warning to everyone along the parade route.

From “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas,” Jack Skellington the Pumpkin King brings greetings from Halloweentown, as residents arrive to celebrate their favorite time of year. Grim, grinning ghosts come out to socialize when Disney’s iconic Haunted Mansion attraction comes to “afterlife,” with swirling ballroom dancers, ominous gravediggers and a trio of hitchhiking ghosts. Inspired by Disney’s “The Princess and the Frog,” Dr. Facilier calls on mystical powers, summoning his Shadow Men from the bayou to loom large over his strange and twisted Voodoo parlor, and the mischievous Disney Villains appear out of the darkness, ready to stir up some trouble. A dark and dungeon-like lair takes over the parade route, bringing with it a wicked gathering of villainy from Hades and the Evil Queen to Jafar, Cruella and more!

The “Frightfully Fun Parade” will be presented exclusively during Mickey’s Halloween Party, a separately ticketed event at Disneyland Park hosted over 17 nights from Sept. 23-Oct. 31, 2016.

Parking is not included in the ticket price and parking fees will apply. Mickey’s Halloween Party is a nonsmoking event. Smoking will be permitted in designated areas outside Disneyland park in the Main Entrance Plaza.

Mickey’s Halloween Party tickets are subject to availability and are valid only for specific event dates and hours. Space is limited and event dates may sell out. Limit eight (8) tickets per person, per event date. Tickets are nonrefundable and may not be resold. Tickets are not required for Guests ages 2 and under. Costumes subject to Disney guidelines and should not be obstructive or offensive. Parking is not included. Subject to restrictions and change without notice. Entertainment may be cancelled due to inclement weather or otherwise.

To learn more about Mickey’s Halloween Party or to get your tickets now, email me at [email protected] for a FREE Quote. Hurry, tickets will sell out fast!

Video Game Review: THE KING OF FIGHTERS XIV

By

Nico Schmelter

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August 23, 2016

So when I was asked to do this review, I had very little idea on what to expect. I, for one, have never heard of King of Fighters. I went into it obviously thinking it was Street Fighter or Mortal Kombat-esque fighting. But to me, it was just another button masher and pray to the high heavens that I get some cool moves in there! I’m not someone who often plays fighting games. I love First Person Shooters, Sports and RPG’s, but will get Street Fighter or Mortal Kombat since that is what I have grown up with.

King of Fighters XIV is the first time I have ever heard of this game. Where have I been to miss the last 13?! It doesn’t matter! This game is loads of fun if you have friends to play with in their 3 vs. 3 fighting style. What bothered me the most about this game is that you have to fight in 3 matches (Max 5) just to move on in the story or in general. I thought it would be usually 2 matches and you switch throughout the match with the characters you want to fight with. That wasn’t the case and the game just seemed to drag a little bit too much.

Once downloading the game onto my PS4 I had to wait for another installation for the Story, Online, Versus and Mission. That was tedious and boring, but once I got through it I was quite excited to play! It took awhile also, about two hours, maybe my wifi was being funky, but just pop up some Netflix and wait it out.

The graphics are absolutely beautiful and the maps were a lot of fun! I was more staring in the back to see what was going on then to my actual performance. Dream World and their King of Fighters Parade as well as Guanajuato Dynamite Ring were my top two favorites to fight in and look at. But when it comes down to the story mode, there seemed to be just random maps every time you moved forward.

Speaking of the story, it felt really messy and didn’t make sense in my opinion. Big Boss man is the King of the Fighters, you fight your way (through random maps) to get to him. You fight him and then the “unexpected” happens. I won’t go into detail to save the story for those who decide to purchase this game, but that was about the small taste I got and I wasn’t impressed. Some of the fighters you fight against are extremely annoying and it felt like I was fighting a child that just choose the same move over and over and over again.

There’s a huge, diverse cast that you can choose from. Some looked really cool like Maxima and Love Hear , some were funny like Cholbounge and Meitenkun and then you obviously have your Main Stream Hero in Kyo Kusanagi. Each character will have bickering commentary that goes along with fighting certain characters, but I honestly don’t know who will talk to who. Besides that, the characters are really unrelatable and I can’t build any relationship with any of them which in unfortunate.

Long story short. I would only be purchasing this game to play with friends at home. The story is there, but I wouldn’t go out of my way to play and I wouldn’t be rushing home from errands or work to play it when I have other games that I am more invested in. The graphics are amazing and i loved how detailed it is and I applaud SNK. It is a fun game! I enjoyed my time with it. Would I drop $60 dollars for it? Probably not. I would most likely wait for it to go down to the $20 dollar mark or lower.

A Frightfully Good Time Awaits Disney Cruise Line Guests this Halloween

By

Robbie Bulus

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August 21, 2016

Disney Cruise Line will treat guests sailing this fall to a wickedly good time as the ships transform into a ghoulish wonderland filled with frightfully fun events and activities, special decorations, unique menu items in the restaurants and themed parties.

In 2016, Halloween on the High Seas takes place on most voyages aboard the Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy and Disney Magic from September through October. This extra-spooky celebration features Halloween-themed parties, lively entertainment and elaborate décor, including The Pumpkin Tree, which magically transforms throughout the cruise. Other special experiences include:

Mickey’s Mouse-querade Party, a celebration with games, dancing and lots of candy! Beloved Disney characters, wearing special Halloween costumes just for the occasion, will join guests for this fun-filled costume party.
A Nightmare Before Christmas—Sing and Scream, an interactive movie experience where guests are part of the action, followed by a meet-and-greet with Jack Skellington and Sally.
Haunted Stories of the Sea, where the bravest cruisers gather under the stars to hear some true—or not so true—tales of the sea told by a mysterious sea captain storyteller.
Creepy Cabaret, Halloween-themed music performed live in the atrium by a band of ghostly musicians.
Halloween Isn’t Just For Kids: For adults, the nighttime entertainment district becomes the ghoulish setting for a costume contest and a Villainous Takeover on the dance floor.
Spooky Movies: To get guests into the spirit of the season, Halloween-themed movies will be shown on Funnel Vision by the family pool and in staterooms.
Ghoulish Delights: Disney Cruise Line chefs have conjured some very special treats for Halloween, including chocolate cake with pumpkin filling, spider cakes and “Spooky Juice.”
More spooky fun includes mask-making and a ghostly takeover of ship announcements!

To celebrate Halloween, the Disney Dream sails three- and four-night Bahamian cruises departing Sept. 2 to Oct. 31; the Disney Fantasy sails seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises departing Sept. 3 to Oct. 29; and the Disney Magic sails five-night Canadian Coast cruises, and seven- and eight-night Bahamian cruises departing Oct. 2 to Oct. 29.

To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, email me at [email protected] for a FREE Quote.

Tickets are Now on Sale to “Halloween Horror Nights,” Southern California’s Most Extreme Halloween Event

By

Robbie Bulus

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August 19, 2016

Universal Studios Hollywood announced that tickets are now on sale for “Halloween Horror Nights” at Universal Studios HollywoodSM, including a newly introduced After 2 p.m. Day/Night Combo ticket inviting guests to experience the theme park’s most exciting attractions by day and remain for the terror that awaits at “Halloween Horror Nights,” which kicks off Friday, September 16, 2016.

Tickets to this year’s event are available for purchase at www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com/Hollywood, including the Frequent Fear Pass which allows guests to visit multiple times throughout the event. Guests purchasing the all-new After 2 p.m. Day/Night Combo ticket can enjoy the park’s popular daytime attractions such as “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™,” “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and “Fast and Furious—Supercharged” on the world-famous Studio Tour by day, then step into the mazes and attractions located throughout the park to experience the terror of “Halloween Horror Nights” for one admission price.

Watch a Sneak Peek into the Terror that Awaits:

“Halloween Horror Nights” guests can also purchase the popular Front of Line ticket, enabling them to enjoy one-time priority access to all the mazes, attractions, all-new Terror Tram, and the special hip hop dance performances by the returning Jabbawockeez.

Advance purchase for all tickets is recommended as event nights will sell out.

“Halloween Horror Nights” dates are:
September 16, 17, 23, 24, 29, 30, October 1, 2, 6, 7, 8, 9, 13, 14, 15, 16, 20, 21, 22, 23, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 and November 4 and 5, 2016.

For exciting updates and exclusive “Halloween Horror Nights” content, visit www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com/Hollywood, like Halloween Horror Nights – Hollywood on Facebook; follow @HorrorNights #UniversalHHN on Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat and Periscope; and watch the terror come to life on Halloween Horror Nights YouTube.

“Halloween Horror Nights” brings together the sickest minds in horror to immerse guests in a living, breathing, three-dimensional world of terror inspired by TV and film’s most compelling horror properties. This year’s all-new terrifying line-up includes:

All-New Mazes:

· For the first time ever, supernatural thriller, The Exorcist, will take possession of “Halloween Horror Nights” in an all-new horrifying maze. In “The Exorcist,” guests will see, hear, feel – and even smell – every iconic levitating, head-spinning, vomit-wrenching, skin-crawling moment from the film. The maze will recreate some of the film’s most haunting scenes, ushering guests into its unparalleled terror as if their very souls were possessed by the devil. They will be paralyzed with fear as they witness the power of the supernatural, scream uncontrollably as they become part of Regan MacNeil’s possession and run in terror as they try to escape the horrific battle between innocence and evil.

· “American Horror Story” has terrorized television viewers for five suspenseful installments, and for the first time ever, three chapters will come to life in a new frightening maze. Guests will venture through Ryan Murphy’s groundbreaking horror anthology, encountering a plethora of iconic scenes and memorable characters designed to jolt them to their very core. Twisted Murder House scenes from Installment 1 will unleash the evil spirits that possess the Harmon estate, spiraling guests through decades of the tortured dead who previously resided there. From Installment 4’s Freak Show, guests will join a troupe of biological misfits in a sinister sideshow where they will be stalked by the murderous and deformed Twisty the Clown. Finally, guests will succumb to the warped desires of The Countess after checking in to the haunted Hotel Cortez, conceived from the beginning as a torture chamber for its customers, from Installment 5.

· Escaped mental patient Michael Myers makes a homecoming return in “Halloween: Hell Comes to Haddonfield,” an all-new maze inspired by the second film in the classic “Halloween” horror franchise. Echoing the infamous words uttered by the film’s Dr. Sam Loomis, “You can’t kill the Boogeyman,” the twisted maze will shed new light on the terrifying lunacy of Michael Myers as he scours the streets of Haddonfield and stalks the halls of Haddonfield Memorial Hospital in ruthless pursuit of victims.

· In “Freddy vs. Jason,” demented killer Freddy Krueger (A Nightmare on Elm Street) returns to the scene of the crime, this time accompanied by notorious hockey mask killer Jason Voorhees (Friday the 13th) to inflict twice as much terror. Inspired by the 2003 film that brought together two of the biggest icons in horror history, this new experiential maze will thrust guests into an epic battle between Freddy and Jason and a showdown in which the fate of only one mass killer will survive.

· The unspeakable terror embroiled within “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre: Blood Brothers” maze will pit guests against the unsavory wrath of demented killer Leatherface and his mentally unhinged brother ChopTop as they unite in misery to expand the family’s cannibalistic enterprise and slaughter a new generation of innocent victims. With the perverse duo at the helm of a grotesque BBQ restaurant staged inside a dilapidated roadside gas station, unwitting guests will soon come to realize the new terror that awaits as the blood brothers continue their hedonistic prey on human flesh.

· Tis the season for “Krampus” as the terrifying dark Christmas legend is manifested into a maze based on the Christmas-themed horror film. The dead of winter sets the stage for the terror that’s about to unfold one cold, dank and dreary Christmas Eve as the fabled anthropomorphic “half-goat, half-demon” horned creature emerges to terrorize those devoid of holiday spirit. Guests will navigate the dysfunctional Engel family home to encounter the evil ancient spirit of Krampus – the dark shadow of Saint Nicholas – and his band of Dark Elves and sinister Gingerbread Men, who cause the family to fight to see the light of day.

· “The Walking Dead” new permanent attraction at Universal Studios Hollywood will have a starring role at “Halloween Horror Nights.” By elevating the scares with more walkers and effects for the nighttime event, “The Walking Dead” creates a no-holds-barred experience that significantly intensifies any other iteration previously developed within the theme park. Coupled with authentic walker make-up effects, sophisticated animatronic walkers, substantially more detailed set design and costuming, and highly recognizable props replicated from the series, the attraction delivers an uncompromised realistic environment that brings guests even further into the most watched show in cable television history.

Scare Zone:

· A terrifying twist on this year’s scare zone, “Halloween Horror Nights” introduces a new themed experience, inspired by Universal Pictures’ disturbing blockbuster trilogy, “The Purge: Election Year,” that permeates all areas of the park. Iconic scenes from each of the frightening films will recreate the turmoil and pandemonium that exists when masked vigilantes hunt for victims during the government’s annually sanctioned killing spree. Like civilians in the movie fighting to survive, guests must rely on their cunning wit, luck and speed as they attempt to outsmart and outlive the anarchy brought about by those who believe in an “eye for an eye.” An original scare zone element will be “The Purge: Gauntlet of Fear” that delivers unbridled fear as guests are funneled through an area of the park to try and escape the horrors of the mass slaughter that awaits them.

Show:

· Back by popular demand, Jabbawockeez, the acclaimed, award-winning hip hop dance crew, returns to the stage within the Special Effects Show venue, donning their signature white masks as they perform a repertoire of innovative, synchronized choreography before an enthusiastic crowd. The all-new, high-energy Jabbawockeez show, created exclusively for “Halloween Horror Nights,” will once again underscore the dance crew’s unique brand of humor as they transport guests into a new realm of gravity-defying dance, elevated to new heights by special effects and pulse-pounding music.

Theme Park Attractions:

· “Jurassic Park—In the Dark,” “Revenge of The Mummy—The Ride,” “Transformers: The Ride—3D,” and “The Simpsons Ride” will be open during “Halloween Horror Nights.”

Behind-the-Scenes: ‘Kubo and The Two Strings’ in Dolby Cinema

By

Robbie Bulus

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August 19, 2016

Kubo and the Two Strings is an epic action-adventure set in a fantastical Japan from acclaimed animation studio LAIKA. Clever, kindhearted Kubo (voiced by Art Parkinson of “Game of Thrones”) ekes out a humble living, telling stories to the people of his seaside town including Hosato (George Takei), Hashi (Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa), and Kameyo (Academy Award nominee Brenda Vaccaro). But his relatively quiet existence is shattered when he accidentally summons a spirit from his past which storms down from the heavens to enforce an age-old vendetta.

Dolby Cinema combines Dolby Vision imaging and Dolby Atmos immersive audio to create a completely captivating cinematic experience. Kubo and the Two Strings is now open in Dolby Cinema at some AMC locations.

Now on the run, Kubo joins forces with Monkey (Academy Award winner Charlize Theron) and Beetle (Academy Award winner Matthew McConaughey), and sets out on a thrilling quest to save his family and solve the mystery of his fallen father, the greatest samurai warrior the world has ever known. With the help of his shamisen – a magical musical instrument – Kubo must battle gods and monsters, including the vengeful Moon King (Academy Award nominee Ralph Fiennes) and the evil twin Sisters (Academy Award nominee Rooney Mara), to unlock the secret of his legacy, reunite his family, and fulfill his heroic destiny.

Director: Travis Knight
Writers: Marc Haimes, Chris Butler (“ParaNorman”); Story by Shannon Tindle, Marc Haimes
Voice Cast: Charlize Theron, Art Parkinson, Ralph Fiennes, George Takei, Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, Brenda Vaccaro, Rooney Mara, and Matthew McConaughey

To find showtimes, upcoming Dolby Cinema at AMC locations and to purchase tickets,
visit at www.amctheatres.com/dolby.

Dolby Launches the Next-Generation Cinema Experience at AMC Theatres

By

Robbie Bulus

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August 19, 2016

In response to impressive guest reaction and the overwhelming success of Dolby Cinema at AMC in its first full year, Dolby Laboratories, Inc. and AMC Theatres announced plans to accelerate Dolby Cinema at AMC installations to 100 operational sites by the end of 2017, seven years ahead of the originally announced schedule. The original agreement, reached in 2015, was for 100 auditoriums over a 10-year deployment.

In addition, AMC and Dolby are collaborating on expansion plans to increase the amount of Dolby Cinema at AMC locations beyond the initial 100.

To date, 22 Dolby Cinema at AMC locations are open around the country, earning rave reviews from guests. Eight more locations are currently under construction and approximately 50 are expected to be open by the end of this year.

“The popularity and success of Dolby Cinema at AMC led to its expansion at an accelerated rate, with 22 locations already open and a few dozen more planned for 2016,” said John McDonald, Executive Vice President, U.S. Operations, AMC. “It’s clear that our guests enjoy the premium audio, vibrant contrast and color, and the incredible comfort of the plush, power recliners at Dolby Cinema at AMC, and with this announcement, we’re thrilled that more guests than ever will have access to this incredible experience.”

“Dolby Cinema has clearly become a preferred cinema experience of consumers, and we look forward to offering the best films to more AMC guests with the most spectacular image, immersive sound technologies and inspired design at Dolby Cinema at AMC,” said Doug Darrow, Senior Vice President, Cinema Business Group, Dolby Laboratories. “Today’s announcement of the expedited expansion of Dolby Cinema at AMC theatres is a direct result of the incredibly enthusiastic responses we have received from consumers nationwide.”

Since its launch in spring of 2015, more than one million Dolby Cinema at AMC moviegoers have experienced Hollywood movies from a variety of genres, including action, drama, science-fiction and fantasy. With support from all major Hollywood studios, 50 Dolby Cinema titles have been released or announced. Recent and upcoming titles this year include Warner Bros. Pictures’ Suicide Squad, Disney’s Pete’s Dragon, LAIKA and Focus Features’ Kubo and the Two Strings, Paramount Pictures’ Jack Reacher: Never Go Back, Marvel’s Doctor Strange, Sony Pictures’ Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk, Warner Bros. Pictures’ Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, Disney’s Moana, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales, Warner Bros. Pictures’ Wonder Woman and Disney•Pixar’s Cars 3.

Dolby Cinema at AMC includes award-winning technologies Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos®. The Dolby Vision laser projection system delivers high dynamic range with enhanced color technology that produces incredible blacks and a contrast ratio that far exceeds any other image technology on the market today. The result is a richer, more detailed viewing experience that delivers strikingly vivid and realistic images that make audiences feel like they are in the movie’s world. Dolby Atmos moves audio around the theatre, even overhead, with amazing richness and depth. The lifelike sounds of music, people and things flow all around the theatre in sync with the action to create a more immersive and moving experience.

The inspiration for design elements came out of the desire to achieve technically superior sight and sound capabilities for all Dolby Cinema at AMC locations. The design of the cinema itself has been created to set a mood and draw audiences deeper into the story. Through the Dolby technology, combined with the ultimate comfort and experience of the AMC power, reserved recliners with seat transducers, guests will feel closer than ever to the action on screen.

Current Dolby Cinema at AMC Locations:

Arizona
AMC Desert Ridge 18 (Phoenix)
AMC Mesa Grand 24 (Mesa)

California
AMC Burbank 16 (Burbank)
AMC Century City 15 (Los Angeles)
AMC Del Amo 18 (Torrance)
AMC NewPark 12 (Newark)
AMC Norwalk 20 (Norwalk)

Colorado
AMC Flatiron Crossing 14 (Broomfield)

Georgia
AMC North Point Mall 12 (Alpharetta)

Illinois
AMC Hawthorn 12 (Vernon Hills)

Kansas
AMC Town Center 20 (Leawood)

Missouri
AMC BarryWoods 24 (Kansas City)

Nevada
AMC Town Square 18 (Las Vegas)

New Jersey
AMC Garden State 16 (Paramus)

New York
AMC Empire 25 ( New York)

Texas
AMC Deerbrook 24 (Humble)
AMC NorthPark 15 (Dallas)
AMC Village on the Parkway 9 (Addison)
AMC Willowbrook 24 (Houston)

Virginia
AMC Hampton Towne Centre 24 (Hampton)
AMC Tysons Corner 16 (McLean)

Washington
AMC River Park Square 20 (Spokane)

To find showtimes, upcoming Dolby Cinema at AMC locations and to purchase tickets,
visit at www.amctheatres.com/dolby.

Meet the Cast & Filmmakers of "Ben-Hur" Press Junket

By

Loretta Garcia - Contributing Writer

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August 18, 2016

We recently had the opportunity to sit down with the Cast & filmmakers at a Press Junket for Ben-Hur which was held at Four Seasons Los Angeles. Producers Mark Burnett and Roma Downey started the roundtable interviews.

Mark and Roma talked about the film’s Director, Timur Beckmamnetov. Mark Burnett said that Timur not only brought a grittiness to the film but a sensibility to bring a timeless classic to a new young audience. Roma Downey added how Timur studied Formula 1 and Nascar racing to bring different shooting angles to create the experience of not just sitting in the theatres but of being a part of the chariot race.
Roma and Mark shared the hopes that this film will bring to light the emphasis of forgiveness versus the vengeance that is needed during today’s upheaval that surrounds our country.

Jack Huston provided great insight on the challenges of playing the part of Judah Ben-Hur. The training for and filming of not only the chariot race but also Judah’s time on the slave ship required a lot of discipline. Losing 30 lbs. for the slave ship scenes was physically demanding but also emotional during his transformation of a sweet somewhat naïve prince into a hardened slave driven by hate Four hours of make-up and the physical side of filming the scenes was amazing yet taxing. Asked about his thoughts on portraying Ben-Hur, Huston shared that the film was one he loved and he respected Charlton Hesston’s performance but realized that the script paid homage to the original, but also allowed for the retelling in a modern, more relatable manner.

Ending the interview with a discussion of the chariot scene, Huston gave us a small look at the unbelievable experience of being a part of the scenes. Training nonstop, Huston and his co-stars were able to do all the scenes themselves. Morgan Freeman was very down to earth and talked about the stronger character he portrayed in this version. His relationship with Ben-Hur and the leadership he provides brings an added dimension to the characters. Mr. Freeman also brought up the fact that this film brings to light, especially in the today’s society, the meaning of love, hate, revenge and forgiveness.

Jack Huston plays Judah Ben-Hur in Ben-Hur from Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures and Paramount Pictures.

Rodrigo Santoro & Nazanin Boniadi talked about their characters and the difference in how much stronger and more visible they are in this new version. Santoro’s demeanor and personality encompassed a calm and spirituality during the interview. Boniadi expressed the closeness she and Santoro developed during filming which helped bring to the screen the commitment and dedication to Jesus, as her character grows. Santoro’s comments about the crucifixion scene were that it was an iconic moment. Challenging to recreate and shoot carried a huge responsibility.

Toby Kebbell and Pilou Asbaek closed the roundtable with their thoughts about playing Messala and Pontius Pilate. Pilou comments about researching other military figures to help him portray his character. Sharing a story about a YouTube clip the director showed Asbaek about a unit in Afghanistan, Pilou realized the speech was from the film Gladiator and realized how film imitated life imitating film.

Toby talked about how interesting it was to be unlikeable and have to make such hard decisions. Toby wanted to make a point about his character in that it’s not about being a bad person but about the effects that a terrible decision causes. It was important for Toby (Messala) not to be the villain. The common theme between the cast was that their hope for the film is that viewers realize and learn the meaning of forgiveness.

Movie Review "Ben-Hur"

By

Loretta Garcia - Contributing Writer

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August 18, 2016

Originally released in 1959, Paramount Studios and Metro-Goldwyn-Meyer (MGM) Pictures presented the new version in 3D. The new film is directed by Timur Beckmamnetov and produced by Sean Daniel, Joni Levin and Duncan Henderson. Along with Executive Producers Mark Burnett, Roma Downey, Keith Clarke, John Ridley and Jason F. Brown, the film brings a new look and feel to the original that will keep movie viewers of all ages on the edge of their seats.

Like the original, this version based on the screenplay by Keith Clarke and John Ridley brings us the story of Judah Ben-Hur and his path of revenge.

The film starts out with the first few minutes of the famous chariot race, but flashes back to Judah Ben-Hur (Jack Huston) and his adopted brother Messala (Toby Kebbell). Best friends and “brothers” since childhood, a freak accident during a competitive race cause hard feelings between Messala and his adopted mother. The events lead to Messala’s departure to find himself. While Ben-Hur a Jewish Prince remains in Jerusalem with his mother, Noemi (Avelet Zurer) and sister Tirzah (Sofia Black D’Elia).

Messala’s return as an officer of the Roman army brings changes to not only the city but to Judah and his family which now includes Esther (Nazanin Boniadi) previously a Jewish slave and now the wife of Judah. After a happy reunion, a series of unfortunate events, lead to Ben-Hur being falsely accused and punished for treason against the Roman empire. Messala is forced to sentence Ben-Hur to a life of slavery. After spending 5 years in the galley of a Roman slave ship, Ben-Hur escapes when the ship is lost in a battle. Judah is rescued by the wealthy Sheik llderim (Morgan Freeman) who plays a prominent figure in the training of Ben-Hur as a charioteer and helps plot revenge against Messala.

Unlike the 1959 award winning film which starred Charlton Heston, the new version brings several characters forward in bigger roles and allows the film to take a modern approach to the timeless classic. Morgan Freeman along with Nazanin Boniadi’s characters come across stronger and provide much better depth, influencing key scenes to allow the viewer to see Ben-Hur in a modern light while keeping the emotional themes of the original 1880 novel written by Lew Wallace. Rodrigo Santoro portrays Jesus perfectly bringing a calm and peaceful strength to each scene. His strong presence throughout the film enhances the storyline to an almost spiritual degree. And his miracles may well renew faith and hope in the hearts and souls of many film viewers.

While the famous chariot race near the end will have your heart racing faster than the horses at each turn of the track, the pivotal scene of Jesus’ crucifixion and Ben-Hur’s reaction will cause your heart and breath to pause.
An emotional uplifting film that reminds viewers of how far love, hate, revenge and forgiveness can take us.

Ben-Hur is now playing in theaters. Ben-Hur is the movie of the year!

"American Horror Story" Comes to Life at Universal Studios' Halloween Horror Nights

By

Robbie Bulus

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August 16, 2016

One of the most horrifying and wickedly gruesome shows in television history is bleeding off the screen and into your nightmares.

“American Horror Story,” FX’s critically-acclaimed, Emmy and Golden Globe Award-winning television series that has terrorized viewers for five suspenseful installments, will come to life at “Halloween Horror Nights” at Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort, beginning Friday, September 16.

Three chapters of “American Horror Story” will haunt the nation’s best, most intense Halloween event in all-new frightening mazes. Guests will embark on a terrifying journey to become the next doomed residents of Murder House from Installment 1, tortured performers in the disturbing and twisted Freak Show from Installment 4, and victims of the otherworldly, death-dealing Hotel from Installment 5.

For the first time ever, guests will venture through Ryan Murphy’s groundbreaking horror anthology, encountering a plethora of iconic scenes and memorable characters designed to jolt them to their very core. Twisted scenes from Murder House will unleash the evil spirits that possess the Harmon estate, spiraling guests through decades of the tortured dead who previously resided there. In Freak Show, guests will join a troupe of biological misfits in a sinister sideshow where they’ll be stalked by the murderous and deformed Twisty the Clown. Finally, guests will succumb to the warped desires of The Countess after checking in to the haunted Hotel Cortez, conceived from the beginning as a torture chamber for its customers.

“‘American Horror Story’ is one of the most disturbing television shows ever produced, and with such perverse storylines unfolding with each installment, ‘Halloween Horror Nights’ is undoubtedly the only place that could create a living version of the nightmares that Ryan Murphy dreams up,” said John Murdy, Creative Director at Universal Studios Hollywood and Executive Producer of “Halloween Horror Nights.” “Plus, as a fan favorite, ‘American Horror Story’ has been the number one requested maze from our guests and we’re excited to let them know that we listened to them and are bringing ‘American Horror Story’ to life.”

“‘American Horror Story’ is engaging for so many reasons, one of them being the fantastic way each installment of the series reveals completely new characters and stories for its viewers,” said Michael Aiello, Director of Entertainment Creative Development for Universal Orlando Resort. “It’s that constant evolution that makes this popular series a perfect fit for Halloween Horror Nights – and we can’t wait for our guests to experience some of the horror they’ve seen on the show.”

“20th Century Fox Consumer Products is thrilled to team once again with Universal Studios to premiere visionary Ryan Murphy’s groundbreaking series, ‘American Horror Story’ through an all-new Halloween Horror Night maze,” said Greg Lombardo, SVP of Global Live and Location Based Entertainment, 20th Century Fox Consumer Products. “The attraction – which showcases multiple chapters from the acclaimed FX anthology – offers a chilling live-action thrill and simultaneously complements the series highly anticipated premiere on September 14th.”

Captivating – and shocking – viewers since its debut in 2011, “American Horror Story” has won 13 Emmys, two Golden Globes, four Critics’ Choice Awards and one People’s Choice Award. “American Horror Story” 6 begins September 14 on FX.

Universal Studios’ “Halloween Horror Nights” is the ultimate Halloween event. For more than 25 years, guests from around the world have visited “Halloween Horror Nights” in Orlando and Hollywood to become victims inside their own horror film. The streets of each coast’s event are transformed into highly-themed scare zones where menacing “scare-actors” lunge from every darkened corner. Multiple movie-quality haunted houses are erected throughout the event, based on anything from iconic slasher films to hit horror television series to haunting original stories.

Additional details about Universal Studios’ “Halloween Horror Nights” will be revealed soon. For more information about Halloween Horror Nights at either Universal Studios Hollywood or Universal Orlando Resort, visit www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com.

New Trailer ROGUE ONE: A STAR WARS STORY

By

Robbie Bulus

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August 11, 2016

Lucasfilm’s Rogue One, which takes place before the events of Star Wars: A New Hope, tells the story of unlikely heroes who have united to steal plans to the dreaded Death Star.

The cast includes Felicity Jones, Diego Luna, Ben Mendelsohn, Donnie Yen, Jiang Wen, Mads Mikkelsen, Alan Tudyk, Riz Ahmed, and Forest Whitaker. “Rogue One” is directed by Gareth Edwards, produced by Kathleen Kennedy, Allison Shearmur, and Simon Emanuel, executive produced by John Knoll and Jason McGatlin, and co-produced by John Swartz and Kiri Hart.

“Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” opens in theaters December 16, 2016!

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