Ride for Dime Dimebash, a benefit honoring “Dimebag” Darrell Abbott, rocked the Lucky Strike Live in Hollywood on Friday Jan 22. The sold-out event sponsored by Monster Energy featured exclusive collaborative performances by hard rock and metal legends, including members of Pantera, Slayer, Alice in Chains, Black Label Society, Hatebreed, Type O Negative, Danzig, Machine Head, Stone Sour, King’s X, Devil Driver, Prong, Kyng, and Armored Saint.
Openers Mothership from Dallas, Texas took the stage followed by Revolution Mother of Long Beach. Both bands got the crowd energized for an epic night of head banging. The intimate crowd started a mosh pit while musicians rolled out song after song. Surprise guest, Foo Fighter David Grohl filled in for Jerry Cantrell who had an emergency. He joined members of Pantera and Slayer as well as Metallica for an insane version of “Ace of Spades”. Dimebag’s longtime partner Rita Haney and James Dio’s wife Wendy Dio were also in attendance.
Proceeds from the event benefited the Ronnie James Dio Stand Up and Shout Cancer Fund. The Fund is dedicated to support research and education that furthers early detection, prevention and treatment of prostate, colon and stomach cancers. The Fund’s philosophy stems from the notion that “Knowledge Equals Power.” Early detection allows people to effectively plan strategies to deal with the disease early on and affords a better chance to overcome the cancer.
This amazing night of music and performances to fund a cause seeking to end a cancer that affects too many!
Even though the event is over, you can still donate to the Ronnie James Dio Stand up and Shout Cancer Fund by going to www.ronniejamesdio.com.
Known for its Chef-created sandwiches, Sessions West Coast Deli will introduce a new breakfast menu with expanded offerings, including breakfast burritos and gourmet toasts. The expanded breakfast menu, which launches on Sunday, January 24th, will serve to offer the communities it serves a greater selection of culinary-focused early-morning options, in a relaxed, beach-inspired environment.
Playing off of its already celebrated menu, the breakfast menu offers a Morning Zephyr, which adds farm-fresh eggs and bacon to the marinated vine-ripened tomato, wild baby arugula, fresh mozzarella, basil aioli, pickled red onion, and balsamic reduction found on the restaurant’s award-winning Summer Zephyr sandwich. Taking a step back from its between-the-bread counterparts, new breakfast burrito offerings feature 13” flour tortillas packed with fillings such as scrambled eggs, jalapeno jack cheese, carnitas style pork, potato mash, pickled onion, habanero puree, guacamole, and lime crema. Another noteworthy new addition to the menu includes a selection of three gourmet toasts, including Sessions’ riff on the popular Avocado Toast with avocado, marinated cherry tomatoes, goat cheese crumbles, arugula and balsamic reduction on toasted ciabatta.
As with menu items at Sessions, all of the new breakfast offerings will include ingredients from the West Coast Deli’s scratch kitchen, where housemade sauces, sides, salads, and soups are prepared in-house daily. All sandwiches and toasts are made to order with fresh, locally grown produce, humanely and naturally raised meats, and locally baked breads delivered daily from local artisan, OC Baking Company. In addition, the restaurant proudly serves a selection of locally roasted coffee beverages from Kean Coffee.
Following is an overview of Sessions’ new breakfast menu to be offered daily at both locations:
BREAKFAST SANDWICHES
THE AL CAPP – A nod to our neighbor Al Cappuccino in Newport – an everything bagel topped with cream cheese, freshly sliced cucumber and tomato and topped with lemon pepper.
RISE & GRIND (BREAKFAST BLT) – Toasted brioche topped with scrambled eggs, 2 slices of bacon, 2 slice of white cheddar then covered with house-marinated tomato, lettuce and basil aioli.
BEC – Simple breakfast sandwich on toasted brioche with scrambled eggs and 2 slices of white cheddar.
WAKE & BAKE – Scrambled eggs, bacon or sausage, pepper jack, housemade guacamole and jalapenos topped with cream cheese on toasted brioche.
McSESSION – Smoked bacon and scrambled eggs topped with white cheddar and housemade sriracha syrup, served on toasted brioche. Pure awesomeness. Tip: Try it on French Toast!
GREEN EGGS AND HAM – Ham, swiss and scrambled eggs on toasted brioche and finished with fresh arugula that has been tossed with housemade fresh basil pesto
MORNING ZEPHYR – the breakfast counterpart to our award-winning Summer Zephyr! We use the same fresh mozzarella, marinated tomato, pickled red onion, arugula, balsamic reduction and fresh basil aioli, and add scrambled eggs and bacon, all on toasted brioche!
FULL MONTY – Ham, swiss and scrambled eggs are placed on french toast and finished with wild strawberry jam and sprinkled with powdered sugar.
THE TAYLOR – Farm-fresh scrambled egg, smoked provolone, breakfast sausage, marinated vine-ripened tomato, wild baby arugula, and housemade fresh basil pesto.
BREAKFAST TOASTS
AVOCADO TOAST – our take on this popular breakfast toast includes avocado, marinated cherry tomatoes, goat cheese crumbles, arugula and balsamic reduction on toasted ciabatta.
RICOTTA TOMATO TOAST – our own herbed ricotta with marinated tomatoes, housemade pesto and parmesan cheese on toasted ciabatta.
NUT AND HONEY – our own herbed ricotta, walnuts and rosemary sprigs, simply drizzled with honey, all on toasted ciabatta.
BREAKFAST BURRITOS
BREAKFAST SESSION – Farm-fresh scrambled eggs, jalapeno jack cheese, carnitas-style pork, roasted potatoes, pickled onion, habanero puree, guacamole, and lime crema on a flour tortilla.
CALZONA – Farm-fresh scrambled eggs, smoked provolone cheese, Italian salami, and roasted potatoes on a flour tortilla, served with housemade red pepper marinara.
GRINGO – Farm-fresh scrambled eggs, white cheddar, avocado and roasted potatoes on a flour tortilla, served with homemade tomato salsa and roasted tomatillo salsa.
SWEETS AND BREADS
BAGELS – Plain or everything varieties with an option to add: cream cheese, butter, and/or jelly.
CROISSANT – Plain croissant heated and served with choice of butter or jelly. Tip: add Nutella!
FRENCH TOAST BITES – French toast, tossed in cinnamon sugar and served with maple syrup
OATMEAL – Housemade oatmeal, served with Sessions’ Signature Crumble, a mixture of brown sugar, crushed walnuts and dried cranberries
“As the first ‘West Coast Deli’ in the country, we have the flexibility and freedom to enhance our menu based on our guests’ desires and needs – this gave way to the addition of breakfast burritos and gourmet toasts, both of which satisfy an important demographic we see early in the day,” commented Matt Meddock, Partner in Sessions West Coast Deli, who looked to Sessions’ Culinary Director Max Schlutz to create a menu that spoke to a variety of preferences seen locally. “We aim to support our local community with the products we serve, from our bread from artisan baker, OC Baking Company, to our coffee, which is roasted a few miles away at Kean Coffee.”
Sessions West Coast Deli is open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner at its two restaurants, located in Huntington Beach and Newport Beach. For hours of operation, full menu, and other information, please visit http://www.sessionssandwiches.com.
ABOUT SESSIONS WEST COAST DELI
In Spring 2014, when Sessions West Coast Deli opened its first location in Newport Beach, its owners had one mission: to serve the best sandwiches to ever hit the lip. As a neighborhood-casual concept designed to serve its immediate community, Sessions embraces the area’s surf culture as it presents a menu of gourmet, culinary-focused sandwiches in a relaxed environment. The term “West Coast Deli” perfectly describes the marriage of a high-quality deli menu with a chill vibe that appeals to area locals and tourists, alike.
In Summer 2015, Sessions opened its second Orange County location on the waterfront in Huntington Beach. The opening of this location reinforced Sessions’ dedication and commitment to its community by becoming a local hub for surfers, skaters and area beachgoers looking for great sandwiches.
Unlike most sandwich shops in the region, Sessions proudly boasts a scratch kitchen with housemade sauces, sides, salads, and soups prepared daily. All sandwiches are made to order with fresh, locally grown produce; humanely and naturally raised meats; and locally baked bread delivered daily from local artisan, OC Baking Company. In addition, the restaurant proudly serves a selection of locally roasted coffee beverages from Kean Coffee.
Sessions West Coast Deli – Newport Beach Peninsula
2823 Newport Boulevard
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Open Daily
7 a.m. – 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
7 a.m. – 9 p.m. Friday & Saturday – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Sessions West Coast Deli – Downtown Huntington Beach
414 Pacific Coast Highway
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
7 a.m. – 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
7 a.m. – 9 p.m. Friday & Saturday – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
From the innovative minds of Disney•Pixar comes a hilariously heartwarming adventure about the power of confronting and overcoming your fears and discovering who you are meant to be.
The Good Dinosaur asks the question: What if the asteroid that forever changed life on Earth missed the planet completely, and giant dinosaurs never became extinct? In this epic journey into the world of dinosaurs, an apatosaurus named Arlo makes an unlikely human friend. While traveling through a harsh and mysterious landscape, Arlo learns the power of confronting his fears and discovers what he is truly capable of.
Bonus Features: Digital HD*, Blu-ray Combo Pack & Disney Movies Anywhere (DMA)
THEATRICAL SHORT – Sanjay’s Super Team – Sanjay loves the world of cartoons and comics, while his father tries to draw him into his Hindu traditions. Reluctance quickly turns into awe-inspiring adventure as the boy embarks on an amazing journey, returning with a new perspective they can both embrace.
TRUE LIES ABOUT DINOSAURS – We know – it’s preposterous to think Apatosaurs spoke English. Learn more about what separates the fictional dinosaurs of “The Good Dinosaur“ from what scientists know about real dinosaurs.
RECYCLOSAURUS – Pixar takes creative competition seriously. Maybe a little too seriously. Watch as “The Good Dinosaur” crew competes to see which department can create the best dinosaur ever…using only discarded items from the studio’s “free table.”
THE FILMMAKERS’ JOURNEY – Finding your way from an idea to a film takes a lot of exploration. Director Peter Sohn and his fellow filmmakers talk about the challenging, inspiring, and unexpectedly emotional experience of making “The Good Dinosaur.”
EVERY PART OF THE DINOSAUR – The filmmakers talk about the special animation challenges of “The Good Dinosaur” – including figuring out how to animate a dinosaur who’s really a boy, and a boy who’s got the spirit of a dog.
FOLLOWING THE T-REX TRAIL – Follow the filmmakers as they travel to a working cattle ranch and meet the McKays, a close-knit family whose work ethic, generosity, and stories inspired the T-Rex ranchers of the film.
COMMENTARY – Commentary from director Peter Sohn, story supervisor Kelsey Mann, supervising animator Mike Venturini, director of photography/lighting Sharon Calahan, and supervising technical director Sanjay Bakshi.
DINO BITES – Montage of original animated pieces produced to promote “The Good Dinosaur.”
HIDE AND SEEK – A short animated clip produced to promote “The Good Dinosaur.”
DELETED SCENES –The Attack – An idyllic introduction to the family farm is cut short when a savage predator attacks the newborn Arlo. With an introduction by Director Peter Sohn.
–Building the Silo – An admiring Arlo is thrilled to follow along as his father builds a silo for the family farm. With an introduction by Director Peter Sohn.
-Waiting for Poppa – Arlo awaits the return of his beloved father on a stormy night, only to be greeted with tragic news. With an introduction by Director Peter Sohn.
Blu-ray 3D & DVD: THEATRICAL SHORT – Sanjay’s Super Team
Digital Exclusive:
JUST LISTEN – Trace the development of the unique soundscape of “The Good Dinosaur,” from the wilds of British Columbia as Sound Designer Craig Berkey collects sounds, to the recording studio where Jeff and Mychael Danna use instruments from around the world to create the music.
International superstar Shakira is lending her Grammy®-winning voice to Gazelle, the biggest pop star in Zootopia.
The all-new original song, “Try Everything,” was written by singer-songwriter Sia and songwriting duo Stargate.
The modern mammal metropolis of Zootopia is a city like no other. Comprised of habitat neighborhoods like ritzy Sahara Square and frigid Tundratown, it’s a melting pot where animals from every environment live together—a place where no matter what you are, from the biggest elephant to the smallest shrew, you can be anything. But when optimistic Officer Judy Hopps arrives, she discovers that being the first bunny on a police force of big, tough animals isn’t so easy. Determined to prove herself, she jumps at the opportunity to crack a case, even if it means partnering with a fast-talking, scam-artist fox, Nick Wilde, to solve the mystery.
Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Zootopia,” a comedy-adventure directed by Byron Howard (“Tangled,” “Bolt”) and Rich Moore (“Wreck-It Ralph,” “The Simpsons”) and co-directed by Jared Bush (“Penn Zero: Part-Time Hero”), opens in theaters on March 4, 2016.
The National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) honored Graham Nash with its “Music for Life” award for his 40-years of legendary musical contributions that continue to shape our culture. NAMM’s President and CEO Joe Lamond presented Nash with the “Music for Life” award during the NAMM Show’s opening Breakfast of Champions. Nash will headline the NAMM Nissan Grand Plaza Stage with a performance at the close of the NAMM Show’s opening day.
“The fact is that when music is a part of the school program students are less likely to join a gang, less likely to get into trouble, feel better about themselves and get better grades,” Nash said. “So let’s keep music in schools.”
The “Music for Life” award is NAMM’s highest honor recognizing individuals and organizations that demonstrate, support and exemplify NAMM’s vision that the joy of making music is a precious element of daily living for everyone. Previous recipients have included musicians Stevie Wonder, Yoko Ono, Henry and Felice Mancini, Smokey Robinson and others, as well as Members of Congress, governors and business leaders.
Legendary singer-songwriter Graham Nash is a two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee with Crosby, Stills, and Nash and with the Hollies and was inducted into the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame twice. Among his many accolades, he is also a GRAMMY AwardTM winner, New York Times bestselling author, internationally renowned photographer and visual artist, and was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) by Queen Elizabeth.
ANAHEIM, CA – JANUARY 21: Singer-songwriter Graham Nash perfroms on stage at the 2016 NAMM Show Opening Day at the Anaheim Convention Center on January 21, 2016 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for NAMM)
The creator of iconic songs including “Our House” and “Teach Your Children” is a powerful voice for peace and social and environmental justice regularly lending his voice to philanthropic endeavors. The No Nukes/Musicians United for Safe Energy (MUSE) concerts he organized in conjunction with fellow musicians Jackson Browne and Bonnie Raitt in 1979, remain seminal benefit events.
The Graham Nash: This Path Tonight Tour 2016 kicks off the week after his appearance at the NAMM Show. Nash’s upcoming studio album, This Path Tonight is set to release April 15, 2016.
The NAMM Show gathers more than 95,000 members of the music product industry from around the world to preview new music products from 5,000 brands across every category.
Direct from Broadway, Idina Menzel, Anthony Rapp, and more from the original Broadway cast are taking IF/THEN across the nation and are currently at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa for a “hurry before your too late” stint! My words will not accurately express the true power or talent that this show exemplifies. IF/THEN is able to capture the best in Menzel and deliver a breathtaking experience that can only be felt in person. Though, if you want to see this you only have until Sunday January 24th!
I was as giddy as girl in her twenties running into Justin Timberlake to see Idina Menzel perform live. Not so much that I gush over her, but because I understand the amazing talent she embodies and have loved much of her past work. Okay, full disclosure, I love RENT and have enjoyed WICKED, plus you can claim you hate “Let It Go” as much as you want… but admit the second time you heard it you wanted to belt it out just as loud as her. On top of that, Anthony Rapp (RENT, stage and film) plays opposite of her. So needless to say, I was a little hyped up and IF/THEN didn’t disappoint!
The entire show is incredibly engaging taking on two possible scenarios all based off one single event that takes place in a park. It’s not your average Broadway show and definitely tries to be a little different, just like other works from Director Michael Grief, who actually cast Menzel in her iconic role as Maureen in RENT. This however can create a convoluted, and sometimes challenging, story to follow. Fortunately Grief has been fortunate enough to have tremendous music and lyrics from Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey who have all worked previously together on NEXT TO NORMAL.
IF/THEN follows a newly divorced 38-year-old urban planner, Elizabeth (Idina Menzel), who has moved back to New York City for a fresh start. The inciting incident starts quickly as Elizabeth is with her friends Kate (LaChanze), A lesbian kindergarten teach, and Lucas (Anthony Rapp), a city activists and former lover who sometimes swings the other way, in Madison Square Park. Whilst hanging with her friends there are two alternate scenarios that play out for Elizabeth. Kate suggests that “Liz” stays to listen to the musician in the park and ends up bumping into Josh (James Snyder), a corky military stud recently returned from duty. From here “Liz’s” life follows a life with Josh while the other scenario has Lucas suggest that she go by “Beth” and encourages her to answer a life-changing career phone call missing Josh all together.
Clearly by the synopsis alone you can see that it can be a bit difficult to follow. While I did hear from others before the show that it was tough for them, I never really had any problems keeping up with it. Of course having the distinction between Beth and Liz will help you follow, but ultimately it was the music that helped me. Definitely a strong suit of IF/THEN would not only be the crescendo of melody throughout the musical but also the crystal clear lyricism and creative staging.
I highly recommend listening to some music prior to viewing if possible. I always find that helps if you aren’t too familiar with a show, but also gives a sense of what to expect. With any quick listen you will hear how straight forward much of the music is yet somehow inventively unique and fluid. Many of the songs flow so well I felt it seemed easier to stay in tune to every lyric, which is not typical for many of the musicals. In fact, I felt that while the music is beautiful, the vocals are truly the star. It helps that I could clearly understand every word with better than normal sounding acoustics and perfect audio. This wont be a reason to go see a show alone, but it sure was appreciated and worth a mention.
Every performance seemed to be on point with nothing negatively standing out. The whole ensemble, which I’ll get into later, was fully engaging. Everyones voice seemed perfect for these untrained ears. As for Idina, my God, she blew the roof off. I was patiently waiting for my “Defying Gravity” moment and as I awaited with many close calls, it came with full steam. The prized possession of this show being “Always Starting Over” does not let down. I have NEVER gasped so hard for air after a single song in my life. The note seemed noticeably longer than that of the recorded version.
While getting to that point there will be a plethora of impressive solos and duets creatively done portraying the two different stories within in one song. “I Hate You” expressed so much emotion and the infamous “What the Fuck?” was so much more than expected in person. Yes, that is the name of one of the songs so here is your warning; IF/THEN contains a TON of explicit language. Consider yourself warned.
Given the very nature of the previous song title, the show has some hilarious moments throughout, but may make some crowds squeamish. It’s nowhere near the content of The Book of Morman so you have nothing to fear there.
There is something to be said about every character delivering exceptional performances. It’s a rarity, but it’s the professionalism and utter talent of this cast that made it possible. I quickly noted to myself that Menzel gives a performance that has something lacking to many other onstage musicals, incredible acting. She had impeccable comedic timing and was entirely convincing every moment. There was no sense of overacting here. Anthony Rapp was himself, I mean, I love this guy, but his performance wont seem much different if your mostly familiar with him in RENT. You kind of know what to expect.
I’m searching for some real critique so this seems legit, but my biggest grief was just some slowness in the second Act and some mindless songs that I didn’t care for. I’ll leave that for you to decide. It’s on the longer side, though I never found myself losing interest.
Staging was more abstract but inventive and different. It never feels cheap or lazy, but rather lets the actors be the focal point. There are quite a few quick costume changes to help switch from scene to scene and from scenario to scenario in which I found very entertaining.
Something to consider before you get hesitant on a show you may not know much about, this show is essentially the same as the Broadway show that recently played from just 2014 to March 2015. The four main actors and some other supporting cast were all apart of the original cast therefore you get to essentially see a Broadway show in its true form on the West Coast. While this is a national tour, it stays true to the original Broadway production opposed to many other traveling companies. PLUS, Idina Menzel’s last show with this tour is Sunday!
In fact, director David Stone has said that IF/THEN wouldn’t be touring if Idina didn’t choose to launch the tour. It’s been said that IF/THEN is believed to be the first musical of the modern Broadway era to have a national tour with all of its major principal cast assembled. That note alone should be reason enough to make it out. However, there is something profound knowing that you are watching a musical that not TOO many people have had the chance to see yet.
Even at the very end, after some emotional thoroughfares, the spotlight faded just after Menzel delivers a very deeply satisfying grateful smile and humbled look up to the audience with an ever so subtle sense of accomplishment of her performance. I may have been looking too much into this one particular moment, but it fit the ending to this emotional second half so well. I felt that Menzel was just happy that she has brought this show to another audience, or… she was just happy that it was over for that performance. Who knows, but I’ll believe the former.
IF/THEN is a strong show with a consistent flow and unchallenged talent. If delivers a powerful message and an important reminder to not focus on the “what ifs” and “if only’s”. It’s not a straight forward takeaway, and for that I’m grateful. It will still have you thinking, but I cannot imagine you leaving without saying “Wow!” Without any exaggerating, I didn’t hear one negative reaction while we slowly walked out of the theater.
It’s going to be quite the weekend at The Center with several events and a top-notch off-Broadway show that I hope I’ll get to see again someday. Segerstrom Center for the Arts may be a good stop this weekend if you’re looking for a nice evening out.
IF/THEN is playing until Sunday 1/24. Tickets are starting at $29.
Research is the foundation for all of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ films—something executive producer John Lasseter believes is required to create a great story. So when the filmmakers behind “Zootopia” decided to create an all-animal world, they went into the wild—literally—when it came to research. “We did about 18 months of really solid research into animals,” says director Byron Howard. “We studied how they interact in the wild, how they socialize and how their individual communities are built in the natural world.
“We found that the majority of animals—90 percent—are prey,” continues Howard. “Only 10 percent are predators. So while we always assumed that predators ruled the animal world, they’re actually the minority. We talked to anthropologists and sociologists and took a look way back through human history—any time you have a majority and minority, social issues arise. We learned and observed that animals of all kinds tend to stay with animals that look like them; they find refuge and protection within their individual groups and tend to avoid animals that are different.”
So the research led the filmmakers to a story that deals with stereotypes and bias. “We set out to make a funny animal movie,” says Howard. “But the more digging we did, we saw an opportunity to talk about something important—while still having great fun with the world, the characters and the story.”
We had the opportunity to sit down with Character Design Supervisor Cory Loftis, Character Look Supervisor Michelle Robinson, Character CG Supervisor Dave Komorowski and Simulation Supervisor Claudia Chung Sanii as they showed us how Disney character design and appeal merged with revolutionary work in Look and Simulation. With over 1,000 unique animals the Disney Animation team ran into many challenges along the way by creating gnus to shrews, lemmings to leopards, rabbits to rhinos, Zootopia is home to animals of all shapes, sizes, stripes and spots.
The Animators blended human anatomy and animal anatomy which kept the teams super busy. Some of the animals don’t even wear pants due to their size and design. It’s also important for the audience to relate to the film. This was achieved by adding emotions to the animals, from moving fur to the eye brows to how clothes move and the way the animals walk and talk. Wind was also added to make us feel the emotions of these characters.
According to director Rich Moore, the key was in finding the right balance. “We worked very hard to find that sweet spot—telling a very rich story that’s entertaining, has heart and says something meaningful.”
“We talked to an incredible bias expert, Shatki Butler,” adds producer Clark Spencer, “who said that it is hard to be biased against someone once you get to know him. That fundamental idea folded beautifully into our story of a bunny and a fox, natural enemies, both assuming something about each other, but learning their assumptions are completely wrong once they are forced to team up.”
The modern mammal metropolis of Zootopia is a city like no other. Comprised of habitat neighborhoods like ritzy Sahara Square and frigid Tundratown, it’s a melting pot where animals from every environment live together—a place where no matter what you are, from the biggest elephant to the smallest shrew, you can be anything. But when rookie Officer Judy Hopps (voice of Ginnifer Goodwin) arrives, she discovers that being the first bunny on a police force of big, tough animals isn’t so easy. Determined to prove herself, she jumps at the opportunity to crack a case, even if it means partnering with a fast-talking, scam-artist fox, Nick Wilde (voice of Jason Bateman), to solve the mystery. Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Zootopia,” a comedy-adventure directed by Byron Howard (“Tangled,” “Bolt”) and Rich Moore (“Wreck-It Ralph,” “The Simpsons”) and co-directed by Jared Bush (“Penn Zero: Part-Time Hero”), opens in theaters on March 4, 2016.
Marvel Battlegrounds, which will hit stores on March 15th, is a four-player, arcade-style brawler that allows you to battle with up to three friends locally. You get to play in 12 levels across eight all-new arenas, including Knowhere and Wakanda. You’ll also be able to battle as any playable Disney Infinity (2.0 Edition): Marvel Super Heroes figure, making Marvel Battlegrounds the Play Set with the largest selection of playable characters.
The Marvel Battlegrounds Play Set Pack will come with the Play Set piece and one figure (Captain America – The First Avenger). Now it’s up to you to decide which other Marvel Super Heroes and Super Villains you want to fight with in Marvel Battlegrounds from a selection of 25 characters and with more to join the roster soon!
As well, if fans pre-order the Play Set, they will receive a free Disney Infinity (2.0 Edition): Marvel Super Heroes figure of your choice at participating retailers.
Drinking a Coca-Cola, any Coca-Cola, makes the moment special.
At an event in Paris, the Company’s Chief Marketing Officer, Marcos de Quinto, revealed a new ‘One Brand’ global marketing strategy that, for the first time ever, unites Coca-Cola, Coca-Cola Light/Diet Coca-Cola, Coca-Cola Zero, andCoca-Cola Life under the iconic Coca-Cola brand positioning in one global creative campaign, “Taste the Feeling.”
The ‘One Brand’ Strategy:
Extends the global equityand iconic appeal of original Coca-Colaacross the Trademark, uniting the Coca-Cola family under the world’s number one beverage brand.
Comes to life in a global campaign – “Taste the Feeling” – that uses universal storytelling and everyday moments to connect with consumers around the world.
Features the product at the heart of the creative, celebrating the experience and simple pleasure of drinking a Coca-Cola, any Coca-Cola.
Underscores the Company’s commitment to choice, allowing consumers to choose whichever Coca-Cola suits their taste, lifestyle, and diet.
“Every day, millions of people around the world reach for an ice cold Coca-Cola,” said Marcos de Quinto, Chief Marketing Officer, The Coca-Cola Company. “The new ‘One Brand’ approach will share the equity of Coca-Cola, across all Coca-ColaTrademark products, reinforcing our commitment to offer consumers choice with more clarity. This is a powerful investment behind all Coca-Cola products, showing how everyone can enjoy the specialness of an ice-cold Coca-Cola, with or without calories, with or without caffeine.”
Added de Quinto: “More than ever, we recognize people want their Coca-Cola in different ways, but whichever one they want, they want a Coca-Cola brand with great taste and uplifting refreshment. Through the ‘One Brand’ strategy we will move away from multiple brand campaigns, to one single iconic brand campaign that celebrates both the product and the brand.”
“Taste the Feeling,” will roll out at various times across all markets globally in 2016 and will come to life through a number of elements, including:
10 Television Commercials
100+ Campaign Images
New Visual Identity System
New Music Anthem and Audio Signature
Shareable and Customizable Interactive Digital Experience
The creative campaign is anchored in the fundamentals of the Coca-Cola brand – the Spencerian script, the red disc and the iconic glass bottle – but with a modern take, featuring authentic and real moments with the product at center stage.
Coca-Cola gathered global creative minds from 10 different agencies to begin the development process, and ultimately the 10 Television Commercials created for the campaign were produced by the following 4: Mercado-McCann, Sra. Rushmore, Santo, and Oglivy & Mather New York. The spots give the viewer momentary, but intimate glimpses into everyday stories, feelings and experiences that people share while enjoying an ice-cold Coca-Cola. At the close of each commercial, the family ofCoca-Cola trademark products unite as one under the famous red Coca-Cola disc.
“There is nothing quite like the taste of an ice-cold Coca-Cola,” said Rodolfo Echeverria, Vice President, Global Creative, Connections & Digital, The Coca-ColaCompany. “The campaign creative was designed to celebrate the notion that the simple pleasure of drinking an ice-cold Coca-Cola makes any moment more special. The universal moments and storytelling depicted in the campaign were created to resonate with our consumers globally. The same images and television creative in Japan will also be seen in Italy, in Mexico and around the world.”
At launch, 5 of the 10 spots will be released. The lead television spot,“Anthem” (Mercado-McCann), comes to life through a series of ordinary moments linked by a Coca-Cola, such as ice-skating with friends, a first date, a first kiss, and a first love. The spot will run in all markets in 2016.
The soundtrack to “Anthem” is an original songcreated for the campaign and titled “Taste the Feeling.” Coca-Cola worked with Music Dealers to write and produce the song. In select markets, the song features the voice of newcomer Conrad Sewell. Sewell, a London-born, Australia-raised singer was featured in the breakout single “Firestone,” which produced 300 million Spotify streams and 3 million-plus worldwide sales. The anthem includes a new audio signature, inspired by the sounds of the experience of enjoying a Coca-Cola – the pop of the cap, the fizz, and ultimately the sounds of enjoyment. The new audio signature will be used throughout the campaign.
“Break Up” (Santo) follows the journey of a young couple’s romance from the first date and early feelings of excitement and love to an explosive break-up and ultimate reconciliation over an ice-cold Coca-Cola. The spot features a new song titled “Made for You” by new artist Alexander Cardinale.
“Brotherly Love” (Santo) captures the universal story of love and conflict between family, highlighting the unique and challenging relationship experienced between two brothers. When the younger brother finds himself without his ice-coldCoca-Cola, his big brother comes to the rescue. The spot features a new version of the hit song “Hey Brother” by renowned songwriter and producer Avicii.
Following a partnership that started in 2014, Coca-Cola has also tapped Avicii to produce a remixed version of the “Taste the Feeling” campaign anthem featuring Conrad Sewell, and he will produce versions of the anthem for the UEFA EURO 2016TM and the Rio 2016 Olympic GamesTM campaigns.
The additional television commercials available for launch include:
“Under Pressure,” (Ogilvy & Mather) tells the story of every day “pressures” that we all face. The spot highlights the importance of taking time to pause, release tension, and enjoy the moment.
“Supermarket,” (Sra. Rushmore) tells the story of a young female cashier mesmerized by a handsome male consumer who pauses to enjoy an ice-coldCoca-Cola.
“What is a Coca-Cola For?” (Sra. Rushmore), “Professor” (Sra. Rushmore), “Arctic Summer” (The Cyranos-McCann), “Empty Bottle” (Mercado-McCann), and “Real Enjoyment” (Mercado-McCann) will be released later in 2016.
The new campaign features100+ Campaign Images shot by noted fashion photographers Guy Aroch and Nacho Ricci capturing people from around the world enjoying ice-cold Coca-Cola in a variety of everyday moments. The new campaign imagery will be used in print advertising, out of home billboards, in-store as well as digital media.
The shareable and customizable interactive digital experienceis made up of different GIF scenes that reflect feelings associated with drinking Coca-Cola set to the “Taste the Feeling” anthem. The experience allows users to pull a GIF scene directly from the microsite, personalize the scene with real-time feelings, and share it on social platforms with #TasteTheFeeling.
In celebration of the opening of “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™” at Universal Studios Hollywood on April 7, the global entertainment destination and TripAdvisor, the world’s largest online travel site, are launching the Ultimate Harry Potter Trip Around the World sweepstakes sending one winner and three guests on a once-in-a-lifetime magical journey to experience the wonders of Harry Potter experiences across the globe.
This exciting contest, which kicked off on January 14, will whisk the sweepstakes winner and three guests on a spellbinding voyage to visit “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” locations around the world beginning with the Grand Opening at Universal Studios Hollywood and including lands at Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Japan. The winners will also visit “The Making of Harry Potter” at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, where they can discover behind-the-scenes filmmaking secrets at the home of all eight Harry Potter blockbuster films. Fans can enter to win at www.tripadvisor.com/wizardingworldhollywood.
More than five years in the making, and inspired by J.K. Rowling’s compelling stories and characters that were brought to life in the Warner Bros. films, “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” is being masterfully recreated at Universal Studios Hollywood and will be faithful to the visual landscape of the fiction and films, including Hogwarts castle which will serve as its iconic focal point.
From its snow-capped roofs and cobblestone streets to the historic British sensibilities that characterize the whimsical look and feel of the land, “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” will transport guests of all ages to the very places they read about in the stories or watched on the silver screen.
Upon entering the land through the archway, Hogsmeade will bustle to life with the same vitality of a quaint local village: merchants hard at work, a train conductor welcoming new arrivals and a pub packed to the gills with hungry patrons, but with the added element of enthusiastic guests intent on experiencing them all, including the land’s signature ride, “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey,” and the family outdoor coaster, “Flight of the Hippogriff™.”
An achievement in pioneering theme park ride technology, “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” will make its U.S. debut at Universal Studios Hollywood in hyper-realistic 3D-HD designed to further immerse guests in an already engaging storyline. The multidimensional thrill ride features a groundbreaking robotics ride system, fused with elaborate filmed action sequences and immersive visceral effects. In this updated adaptation of the ride, guests will 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 on a whirlwind adventure of a lifetime.
Also within “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter,” the enchanting family coaster, “Flight of the Hippogriff™” will open as Universal Studios Hollywood’s first outdoor roller coaster.
“The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” will resonate with immense detail, inviting guests to revel in Harry Potter’s world with the opportunity to enjoy authentic food and beverage at multiple locations, including Three Broomsticks™, and Hog’s Head pub, as well as the Magic Neep and Butterbeer™ carts.
A foray through the shops will add to the authenticity of the land with eight retail venues and locations, including Honeydukes™, Ollivanders™, Owl Post™, Zonko’s™ Joke Shop, Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment, Dervish and Banges, Gladrags Wizardwear and Filch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods™.
The Ultimate Harry Potter Trip Around the World sweepstakes began on January 14. Fans have until February 24 to register and can enter to win at www.tripadvisor.com/wizardingworldhollywood. The winner will receive a trip for four people, including airfare, four night accommodations at each location, ground transportation, 2-day theme park tickets for each theme park and tickets for Warner Bros. Studio Tour London. U.S. citizens, 18 years of age and older are eligible to enter. Additional eligibility information is available at http://www.tripadvisor.com/wizardingworldhollywood. No purchase is necessary.
The Deadly Tower of Monsters is released for Playstation 4! In this action/adventure game, you play as Dick Starspeed, Scarlet Nova, or THE ROBOT in a legendary Sci-Fi B-Movie directed by Dan Smith. There are 2 modes to play in: Original, which is a Film Grain effect similar to a VHS, and Post-Processing Setting, which is DVD quality.
The Deadly Tower of Monsters is framed as a 1970s sci-fi film – directed by the fictional Dan Smith and starring Jonathan Digby, Stacy Sharp, and a no name actor – that features all the charm and cheesiness of your favorite B-movie. After crash-landing onto the hostile planet of Gravoria, fearless hero Dick Starspeed must deftly navigate the treacherous landscape in order to rendezvous with his trusty sidekick Robot. They eventually meet up with the fiery Scarlet Nova, and must ascend the eponymous Deadly Tower of Monsters in order to stop the cruel Emperor of Gravoria.
The game is a throwback to early video game graphics and design. It reminds me of an 8-bit video game console type game. The Deadly Tower of Monsters is narrated as if it is a Director’s Cut of a Sci-Fi B-Movie. While the commentary is witty, at times, it is often repetitive.
As you travel up the Deadly Tower of Monsters, various Hollywood adversaries are thrown your way. You must defeat them in order to be rejoined with your team. While the game may be a little old-school for some, there are plenty of monsters to beat up along the way.
The Deadly Tower of Monsters is available digitally on PlayStation Network and Steam in the Americas, Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Oceania. While the game is normally priced at $14.99, it is discounted for ~33% from today until Feb. 2. For more information about the game, please visit: http://www.deadlytowerofmonsters.com/
Dine Newport Beach and the Newport Beach Restaurant Association, has announced the 10th anniversary of Newport Beach Restaurant Week, taking place January 18-31, 2016. As the longest running restaurant week in Orange County, the annual event provides special prix-fixe menus for lunch and dinner at a wide variety of premier eateries such as The Ritz Prime Seafood, Sol Cocina, Slapfish, Muldoon’s Irish Pub, Provenance, Tackle Box, Fig & Olive, Sushi Roku and more.
“As the first restaurant week event in Orange County, Newport Beach Restaurant Week continues to successfully showcase the ten distinct dining neighborhoods of the city,” says Newport Beach Restaurant Association President Jim Walker, owner of The Bungalow Restaurant. “The inspiration behind the yearly event is to bring new guests to the area and support the economic growth of our community. 2015’s program generated the monumental amount of $4.6 million in consumer spending in our community of 85,000, and we look towards 2016 to make an even bigger impact.”
During the 14 days of Restaurant Week, prix-fixe lunch and dinner menus are available starting at the approachable rate of $10 for lunch and maxing out at $50 for dinner. With a plethora of options available, guests are able to feed their curiosity through the approachable price points and the variety of cuisines. Culinary roadmaps and guides can be found at www.dinenb.com.
Additionally, foodies can participate in a “Feed Your Curiosity” interactive quiz to determine their food personality. Whether they are looking to feed their inner “health nut,” “carnivore,” “sweet treat freak,” or “food critic,” they’ll be able to satisfy the appetites of their “inner circle” with the multitude of restaurants participating in restaurant week.
Newport Beach Restaurant Week menu pricing, per person, is as follows: • Lunch: $10/$15/$20/$25
• Dinner: $20/$30/$40/$50
No passes, tickets, or coupons are required for those looking to explore Newport Beach during the culinary festival. For a full list of participating restaurants and to make reservations go to www.dinenb.com.
Sample of 2016 Participating Restaurants:
• 21 Oceanfront Restaurant
• 3 Thirty 3 Waterfront
• Amelia’s Seafood & Italian Restaurant
• Andrea
• Avila’s El Ranchito – Corona del Mar
• Avila’s El Ranchito – Newport Beach
• Avo Bar + Restaurant
• Back Bay Bistro
• Back Bay Tavern
• Bayside Restaurant
• Billy’s at the Beach
• Bluefin
• Bluewater Grill
• Campus Jax
• Canaletto Ristorante Veneto
• Citrus
• Coliseum Pool & Grill
• Crow Burger Kitchen
• Cruisers Pizza Bar Grill
• Cucina Alessa
• CUCINA enoteca
• Dory Deli
• Fig & Olive
• Five Crowns Restaurant
• Fly ‘n’ Fish Oyster Bar & Grill
• Hopdoddy Burger Bar
• Lighthouse Cafe
• Malarky’s Irish Pub
• Mariposa Restaurant
• Modo Mio Rustic Italian Kitchen
• Muldoon’s Irish Pub
• Oak Grill
• Pelican Grill
• Pescadou Bistro
• PizzaBar
• Pizzeria Mozza
• Port Restaurant and Bar
• Provenance
• Red O Restaurant
• Rockin Baja Lobster Coastal Cantina
• Rothschild’s Restaurant
• Roy’s Restaurant
• Royal Thai Cuisine
• Rusty Pelican
• Sam & Harry’s Steakhouse
• Slapfish
• SOL Cocina
• Summer House
• Sushi Roku
• Tackle Box
• The Beachcomber at Crystal Cove
• The Bungalow Restaurant
• The Cannery Seafood of the Pacific
• The Crow Bar & Kitchen
• The Ritz Prime Seafood
• The Village Inn
• The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar
• Tommy Bahama Island Grille
• True Food Kitchen
• Waterline Newport Beach
• Woody’s Warf
