Based upon the acclaimed comic book and directed by Matthew Vaughn (Kick Ass, X-Men First Class), Kingsman: The Secret Service tells the story of a super-secret spy organization that recruits an unrefined but promising street kid into the agency’s ultra-competitive training program just as a global threat emerges from a twisted tech genius.
KINGSMAN: THE SECRET SERVICE
Release: February 13, 2015
Action-Thriller
Director: Matthew Vaughn
Screenplay: Jane Goldman & Matthew Vaughn, based upon the comic book by Mark Millar & Dave Gibbons
Producers: Matthew Vaughn, David Reid, Adam Bohling
Cast: Colin Firth, Michael Caine, Taron Egerton, and Samuel L. Jackson
Disneyland Resort Halloween Time 2014 marks the 14th time that Jack Skellington has visited the 999 Happy Haunts who dwell in the Haunted Mansion, transforming this attraction into Haunted Mansion Holiday. Each year, Jack dresses up as “Sandy Claws” as he and his ghost dog Zero bring ghoulish delights from Halloween Town to visit Disneyland Park.
One of Jack’s holiday traditions is leaving a special treat for the ghosts who dance around the Haunted Mansion’s Grand Hall. The annual centerpiece for this “waltz of the weird” is always a huge, creepy gingerbread creation. Jack delivers new and thrilling surprises every year.
Tradition Continues with 14th Creepy Creation: Gingerbread House Traps a Gingerbread Zombie
The Ghost Host of Haunted Mansion Holiday always says, “even a gingerbread house can be scary,” and this year’s design definitely lives up to the “scary” definition. Of course, the Haunted Mansion Holiday gingerbread house adds a little whimsy with a hapless gingerbread zombie trapped inside – and those frightening spikes are very sharp, red-and-white candy canes. The gingerbread house also will feature opening and closing doors and special lights.
A team of five pastry chefs created this year’s Gingerbread Mansion. Three of them have been part of the Haunted Mansion Gingerbread House team since the annual holiday transformation began 13 years ago.
Frightfully Fun Facts about Haunted Mansion Holiday
Supernatural Sweets – Every year, a new ghoulish concept for the Haunted Mansion Holiday gingerbread house is created for the celebration scene in the mansion’s Grand Hall. This strange and wonderful treat is almost always “supernatural.”
The Eerie Exterior – More than 400 flickering candles create a ghostly glow on the façade of the Haunted Mansion. Each night, more than 100 jack-o-lanterns shine their ghoulish light.
The Haunted Elevator – Jack Skellington and his ghost dog Zero appear in a fully animated sequence on the ceiling of the “stretching” room, which transports guests into the depths of the mansion.
The Portrait Gallery – Ghost dog Zero makes a surprise appearance among the spooky, transforming portraits in the gallery corridor.
The Graveyard – The graveyard inside Haunted Mansion Holiday is covered with nearly 7,500 square feet of snow. More than 20 gallons of UV (ultra-violet) paint is used to enhance the snow’s eerie glow. Nearly 1,000 tiny, orange lights decorate the trees.
Graveyard Ice Angels – The iconic Graveyard Ice Angels are designed with a jagged, ice-carved look. Their ethereal wings and snow-glow colors shine with a more ghoulish luster than ever this year.
Deck the Halls – Each season, thousands of feet of “Black Gnarly” garland is draped and hung inside and outside Haunted Mansion Holiday. Jack’s faithful dog Zero gathered more than 200 bones to use as décor, garland and presents.
“Come Out to Socialize” – More than two dozen additional animated figures “materialize” inside the mansion whenever Jack brings his Haunted Mansion Holiday around. From man-eating wreaths to vampire teddy bears, they wait all year to join in the holiday spirit.
Home Creepy Home – Creepy cobwebs are artistically kept (not swept!) year-round to make Jack Skellington and the 999 Happy Haunts feel right at home.
Seasonal Séance Room – Madame Leota’s “13 Days of Christmas” are featured in 13 spinning fortune cards that tell of the Christmas gifts which, as she proclaims, “My ghoul love gave to me…”
Kim Irvine, daughter of the original Madame Leota – For this seasonal attraction, Imagineer Kim Irvine gives a spirited performance as the Haunted Mansion’s favorite psychic, floating inside the Haunted Mansion’s Crystal Ball in the Séance Room. Her mother Leota Toombs, Disney Legend and long-time Imagineer, first gave life to the floating head.
Haunting Gingerbread Smells – The haunting scent of tasty gingerbread wafts throughout the Grand Hall, tempting Happy Haunts and guests alike.
‘Hurry Back!’ – New for 2014, a more “animated” Sally bids farewell to “Sandy Claws” Jack Skellington as he, and Haunted Mansion Holiday guests, depart from the Mansion.
Back in June, we reported on rumors from Latino Review that Universal was courting Matt Damon to return to his action roots, for another installment in the Bourne series. At the time, the rumors had Damon teaming up with Renner, coming off The Bourne Legacy. Well, now it’s offical, as Deadline reports the news, which Latino Review originally stated in June, that Matt Damon has reached a deal with Universal and is going to reprise his role as Jason Bourne once more. But now it appears that outside of Damon, Universal Pictures has managed to get series director Paul Greengrass, who directed the second and third films in the series, is set to helm the newest picture as well.
This is very exciting news for the fans, and it’ll be great to see these two team up for another film in the series. But now the real question becomes, what happens to Jeremy Renner and Justin Lin’s film, which had been in development before this? Deadline reports that the film, now looked at as a spin-off, is still in development, but with Lin taking over some directing duties on the next season of True Detective, and Renner possibly having a supporting role in Captain America 3, the prospects of their new film look a little bleaker. While The Bourne Legacy wasn’t nearly as good as the previous three outings, Renner was truly fantastic in the role of Aaron Cross, a product of the same program that created Bourne. His character was hunting for Bourne as the film ended, so I’m hoping that means we’ll see him potential return in this film.
It would be a shame to turn their back on what The Bourne Legacy set up, and I’d very much like to see Damon and Renner’s characters together on screen. Here’s hoping whoever is handling the script, and the idea that is bringing Greengrass and Damon back, includes Renner’s character, because he deserves as much. Still though, the fact that Damon and Greengrass are returning to the Bourne series is very, very exciting, and I can’t wait to see what they do. The film is set for release on July 15, 2016.
The worldwide phenomenon of The Hunger Games continues to set the world on fire with The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1, which finds Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) in District 13 after she literally shatters the games forever. Under the leadership of President Coin (Julianne Moore) and the advice of her trusted friends, Katniss spreads her wings as she fights to save Peeta (Josh Hutcherson) and a nation moved by her courage. The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 is directed by Francis Lawrence from a screenplay by Danny Strong and Peter Craig and produced by Nina Jacobson’s Color Force in tandem with producer Jon Kilik. The novel on which the film is based is the third in a trilogy written by Suzanne Collins that has over 65 million copies in print in the U.S. alone.
Lionsgate presents, a Color Force / Lionsgate production, a Francis Lawrence film.
Cast (Character): Jennifer Lawrence (Katniss Everdeen), Josh Hutcherson (Peeta Mellark), Liam Hemsworth (Gale Hawthorne), Woody Harrelson (Haymitch Abernathy), Elizabeth Banks (Effie Trinket), Julianne Moore (President Coin), Philip Seymour Hoffman (Plutarch Heavensbee), Jeffrey Wright (Beetee), Sam Claflin (Finnick Odair), Jena Malone (Johanna Mason), with Stanley Tucci (Caesar Flickerman), and Donald Sutherland (President Snow)
Directed by: Francis Lawrence Screenplay by: Danny Strong and Peter Craig Based upon the novel “Mockingjay” by: Suzanne Collins
Warner Bros. Pictures and Alcon Entertainment provided us the opportunity to preview their new movie, “Dolphin Tale 2” at the TLC Chinese Theatre in Hollywood. In Dolphin Tale, we met the famous dolphin – Winter, whose rescue and rehabilitation, with the help of a groundbreaking prosthetic tale made her famous and inspired the 2011 family hit movie “Dolphin Tale.”
The sequel, “Dolphin Tale 2” reunites the cast from the first movie including Harry Connick, Jr., Ashley Judd, Nathan Gamble, Kris Kristofferson, Cozi Zuehlsdorff, Austin Stowell, Austin Highsmith and Oscar winner Morgan Freeman and of course Winter the dolphin.
Dolphin Tale 2 starts out several years after the rescue of Winter. The team at Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA), continue working with animals and their mission to “rescue, rehabilitate and, when possible, release” injured animals back to their natural habitats.
Everything seems to be going fine at the CMA, until Winter’s surrogate mother, Panama dies, leaving Winter along and grieving. Nothing and no one seems to be able to help Winter. Adding to Winter’s problems is the fact that USDA regulations require these social creatures to be paired. If a female companion is not found quickly, CMA will lose Winter to another facility. With time running out for Winter, Hope in the form of a baby dolphin rescued by the CMA team might be the answer to keeping Winter at CMA. The struggles and hard work of the CMA team to get Winter and Hope to accept each other makes for some heart tugging scenes. While the adventures of Rufus the pelican and Mavis the sea turtle add some of the funniest scenes to the film. Rufus (like Frozen’s Olaf) will likely become a favorite with moviegoers young and old. Adding to the story line are several sub plots including the hint at a romance between the young stars, Sawyer (Nathan Gamble) and Hazel (Cozi Zuehlsdorff) and the hard decision Sawyer faces when an offer to spend a semester at sea includes leaving Winter behind.
A cameo by champion surfer, Bethany Hamilton, and the real-live footage at the end of the movie where Hope is rescued adds the perfect touch of real life drama to the movie.
Written and directed by Charles Martin Smith, who directed “Dolphin Tale,” and produced by Oscar nominees Andrew A. Kosove and Broderick Johnson and Richard Ingber, and Steven P. Wegner. David Yates and Robert Engelman as executive producers, “Dolphin Tale 2” is inspired by the true story of Hope’s rescue which occurred at the end of the first movie’s wrap party. Several members of the cast and filmmaking team were on hand to witness Hope’s arrival at CMA, and being hand carried to the pool—a scene closely re-created in the film.
Dolphin Tale 2 is now paying in theaters. Don’t miss this heartwarming, inspirational story.
My name is Loretta Garcia and I am the Entertainment Writer for Socalthrills. Follow our website for all your So. Cal news and updates.
From Walt Disney Animation Studios, the team behind “Frozen” and “Wreck-It Ralph,” comes “Big Hero 6,” an action-packed comedy-adventure about the special bond that develops between Baymax (voice of Scott Adsit), a plus-sized inflatable robot, and prodigy Hiro Hamada (voice of Ryan Potter). When a devastating event befalls the city of San Fransokyo and catapults Hiro into the midst of danger, he turns to Baymax and his close friends adrenaline junkie Go Go Tomago (voice of Jamie Chung), neatnik Wasabi (voice of Damon Wayans Jr.), chemistry whiz Honey Lemon (voice of Genesis Rodriguez) and fanboy Fred (voice of T.J. Miller). Determined to uncover the mystery, Hiro transforms his friends into a band of high-tech heroes called “Big Hero 6.” Inspired by the Marvel comics of the same name, and featuring breathtaking action with all the heart and humor audiences expect from Walt Disney Animation Studios, “Big Hero 6” is directed by Don Hall (“Winnie the Pooh”) and Chris Williams (“Bolt”), and produced by Roy Conli (“Tangled”).
We recently attended a Press event at the Walt Disney Animation Studios in Burbank and had the opportunity to meet with the filmmakers to to learn more about Disney’s 54th animated feature film, “Big Hero 6.”
We started off with a brief introduction by Director, Patrick Osborne and we were treated to his new Disney short “Feast”. Patrick Osborne shared how he started with the idea of telling a story about food and ran with it convincing Disney to produce this short. Part of the work on this animated short, included bringing in real puppies for the animators to use as models and to make the characters come to life. “Feast” will be released as a short along with “BIG HERO 6″ and is sure not be missed.
After we were done Watching “Feast” We watched some amazing footage from “BIG HERO 6″ which was introduced by Directors Don Hall, Chris Williams and Producer, Roy Conli. During the clips we were able to see some of the most important key parts of the story. It was amazing watching this “never before seen footage” which included rough animation and temporary special effects was very as it gave us a glimpse into the making of the film. Several key scenes including one where Baymax and Hiro meet for the first time and when they test fly Baymax’s super suit became our instant favorite parts of the film. This film is sure to please moviegoers of any age.
“Big Hero 6” filmmakers set out to create a movie that balances action, humor and emotion, but according to producer Roy Conli—it’s not necessarily an even split. “When all is said and done, heart and humor are so important to us—we want to make sure that the action always has meaning—an emotional context to live in. Emotion and humor tend to come along with the action in ‘Big Hero 6.’”
At its core, of course, is the budding bond between Hiro and Baymax. Says director Chris Williams, “The movie is really about the two of them coming together. We decided early on that the central relationship would be between Hiro and Baymax as Hiro struggled to deal with the loss of his brother. While we want the story to be really fun and funny, at the same time, there’s this emotional depth and resonance, that is pretty far beyond what people might expect.”
The genesis of “Big Hero 6” lies in the Marvel vaults, though filmmakers say the comic- book series was small and not widely known. “When I was a kid, I loved Marvel comics,” says Hall. “I was encouraged to explore the Marvel universe and one of the projects I found was called ‘Big Hero 6.’ I’d never heard of it, but I liked the title and its Japanese influences—it just sounded cool.”
According to Hall, he was encouraged to take the idea and run with it. “From the beginning we were told to make it our own,” he says.
During the day, we were taken to various departments inside the Disney Animation Studios for Q&A with the various Filmmakers. Head of Animation Zach Parrish (“Wreck-It Ralph”) and members of his team shared the long hours and hard work that goes into how the characters go from an idea on paper to actual talking, walking and coming alive on screen. A new software program created in house allowed for the Animators to be able to create, each wrinkle, facial movement and every aspect of how a character is created in new and amazing ways. They demonstrated the program and showed us how they take a scene and with clicks of a mouse button transform it into something magical. Just like with the ice castle in “Frozen”, they are able to take the characters and scenes to new heights in the world of Animation.
Next up was Michael Kaschalk (Head of Effects ) and Effects Production Supervisor Nathan Curtis talked about how “BIG HERO 6″ was one of the most challenging projects to date. Viewers usually think of visual effects as things like fire, rain, snow, water, etc. but in Disney films, visual effects include “magic” and to create Disney magic, the special effects teams needed to “capture the essence of the character”. Using a new program they developed called Hyperion, the team was able to create incredible special effects. Sharing information about the Microbots, which are a big signature effect in the movie, the team shared the extensive research in architecture and structural designing involved to make the Microbots come alive in a variety of forms. The visual effects in “BIG HERO 6″ from the Microbots to the fire-breathing suit worn by Fred and the 7 fight scenes, will once again place Disney is the top spot with visual effects.
Screenwriter Robert Baird and Head of Story Paul Briggs talked about how long it takes to put together a story. “Story teams are made up of directors, producers, and story people to build a story.” “BIG HERO 6″ “took 4 to 5 years to develop a good story”. Viewers don’t realize the number of sequences and in turn drawings that go into making a movie. Discovering how “BIG HERO 6″ had over 30 sequences, with one sequence having 1000 drawings gave me an idea of the enormous amount of hard work and time involved.
Production Designer Paul Felix and members of the visual development team shared artistic design choices and all the research that went into the creation of San Fransokyo and the unique character designs of “”BIG HERO 6″. The idea of combining San Francisco and Toyko was a perfect blend because of the differences in artistic designs in each. San Francisco has the old Victorian homes and Toyko has the modern architecture (any building over 30 years is considered old and demolished). “San Fransokyo was born and set in the near future which allowed for people to be people” and the combination of the two worlds gives it the perfect setting.
Part of the process involved researching the robotics world to find Baymax. Hall spent some time with researchers at Carnegie Mellon. “We had some really great conversations about robots in pop culture,” says Hall. “And I learned that they were actually researching soft robotics, including this vinyl arm that was inflatable and non- threatening. It could do simple things like brush somebody’s teeth, but the possibilities were endless.”
Not only did Hall like the idea of a soft non-threatening robot, he liked what it could become. “A big part of this movie is that Hiro turns this compassionate nurse robot into a meched-out warrior with some dangerous consequences at stake.”
Filmmakers decided to set their action-packed story in an all-new world that embraced the Japanese influences, but provided a fresh setting unlike anything audiences had ever seen. “I thought about San Francisco,” says Hall, “which is cool, but I thought ‘What if it was San Francisco mashed up with Tokyo.’ It felt more interesting as a setting—more playful and exotic. It was something we could create. And the visual possibilities of those two cities—which are pretty different aesthetically—mashed together felt like a really cool place to set the story.”
Conli says that the film’s setting wasn’t the filmmakers’ only twist on the Marvel series. “The original source material gave us six very interesting and brilliant kids that we could explore,” he says. “And because we decided to take it into a heightened world, we were able to reinvent the characters for today’s audiences.”
Inspired by the Marvel comics of the same name, and featuring breathtaking action with all the heart and humor audiences expect from Walt Disney Animation Studios, “Big Hero 6” hits theaters in 3D on Nov. 7, 2014.
We recently visited Medieval Times in Buena Park for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Castle and to talk with the cast & crew of the popular Dinner & Tournament show. Join Richard Lau, as we take a look at how the horses are trained as well as some of the special weapons the Knights use. Also take a look at the Castle itself and what it has to offer visitors.
Spend an evening as a noble guest at the castle as you watch an action-packed medieval tournament and enjoy the sensational four-course royal feast.
Six bold knights compete in a tournament of jousting, sword fighting, and hand-to-hand combat, using all of their skill and strength to win the title of tournament champion and gain the favor of beautiful Princess. Guests are seated in color-coded sections corresponding with one of the brave knights, so you can contribute to the action by cheering your favorite warrior to victory. The clashing swords and shattering shields of the tournament aren’t all the show has to offer – there is also an inspiring romance and a healthy dose of castle intrigue as the king seeks to maintain his kingdom’s peace, making for a truly inspiring story. Read our Full Review Here!
If you are you ready to step back in time, then you are ready to visit Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament in Buena Park, CA. located at 7662 Beach Blvd. Buena Park, CA 90620. To make a reservation please call 1 (888) 935-6878 or visit www.medievaltimes.com.
Video filmed and Edited by Chris Mansker at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament in Buena Park before the Castle opened to the public.
My lords and ladies I had the privilege to visit Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament in Buena Park, CA. Upon stepping onto the castle grounds and retrieving your tickets you are whisked away to the Hall of Arms where you will be given your table assignments and being crowned depending on your colored knight for the evening tournament and festivities. You are then greeted by a wench or squire seeing if you had purchased a package upgrade for more photo opportunities, if you did you are sent to a different room where you can dress as royalty, knight, maiden or any honored subject of the kingdom and you can choose from a multitude of backgrounds. If you did not purchase an upgrade you still get a photo opportunity with King Don Carlos or Princess Catalina. After tour photo opportunities you may visit the Royal Dungeon where they have about 30 reproductions of torture devices that were used in the Middle Ages for a small fee.
Whether you choose to visit the Royal Dungeon or not you are then free to roam the castle grounds prior to dinner. As you wander the castle you may stop and quench your thirst with a tasty libation at either of the two bars. Have no fear my lords and ladies the mystical beverage slush that you see in the marvelous machines are prince and princess friendly with no alcohol. You may however prove your age and make any beverage slush into a noble alcoholic one indeed. Also you may visit some of the merchants selling trinkets to commemorate your visit to the kingdom. A unique experience is to purchase a scroll that will be announced during the tournament by the Princess or Lord Chancellor. You may also visit the stables prior to the show and you can see many of the horses getting groomed and prepared for the pageantry and tournament. When it is time to enter the arena the trumpets will herald your attention and your colored seating sections will be called, also any good gentles that need assistance will be ushered into the arena about 10 to 15 minutes prior to the general searing.
Upon taking your seats you will be greeted by your hard working Wench or Squire for the evening. They will be slinging the food and beverages throughout the evening, they will instruct you how to place your mug in different positions to show then what beverage choice you have made. Printed on your fine linen for the evening is your Bill of Fare, your four course meal, they do also offer a vegetarian option as well. Your first course is Dragon Soup with garlic rock (tomato bisque soup and garlic bread), Baby Dragon that taste like (chicken), Dragon Rib (spare rib) and half a herb-roasted potato and finally Pastry of the Castle (warm apple turnover), fresh fruit can be substituted upon request.
We were fortunate enough to sit in the front row of our colored section (we got Green). During the pageantry one of the horses riding at full gallop, kicked a clump of the sand that flew over the railing and onto my lap and exploded. I am okay, I am just thankful it was not horse droppings. I quite enjoyed watching Redha, head horse trainer for the king and the knights helped the horses demonstrate some fantastic skill skills like waling on its hind legs, trotting backwards in a straight line, and even doing a midair jump kick. They seem to be having a lot of fun on the field and I think the horses are very spoiled. Caitlin the royal falcon trainer showed us some skills with her falcon flying all around the arena and over our heads before being rewarded with a tasty treat.
For the tournament we were cheering for the Green knight, he is the champion from Leone this evening, I was very excited since my favorite color is green. Some of the games of skill at the tournament were a baton race on horseback, spear onto a target while riding horseback, large ring which is when two knights compete on horseback while holding a lance and charging thru the field and trying to catch a ring on two separate logs suspended over the arena. If they are successful upon catching the ring a ribbon is also released that is attached to the ring, that’s my favorite game of the tournament besides the famous joust and hand to hand combat. After each game of skill the knight or knights who were victorious were awarded carnations by the princess and then the knights may choose to reward any faire maiden in his realm. Those carnations can fly pretty high going to the back of the area table at times for some lucky maiden. Next to us was a family from Australia, the little princess was raising her hand and jumping up and down each time our green knight road by throwing carnations, she was a bit bummed because each time our knight would pass her up. It was okay because after winning the joust tournament the winning knights were awarded a colored ribbon representing their win and our brave knight awarded her with that special honor, she was so very happy and then a noble squire came down and asked to take her picture, she has a huge smile on her face the rest of the evening.
It was nerve racking at times during the tournament; since during the fight our knight was loosing steam but then our section cheered him onto being victorious in the kingdom and he was awarded by being able to honor one lucky maiden or princess to be the Queen of Love and Beauty. This time the Princess Catalina also came down and presented the little princess with a crown as well and a lovely photo was taken to commemorate this auspicious day. After the tournament you may wander some of the shops to purchase your souvenirs, and or also pick up and purchase your photo(s) from earlier in the evening. The highlight then is you may meet and great the knights at the Knight night club bar. This is where the royal knights retire after an evening of pageantry. You can strike a knightly pose with them or ask them any questions. I suggest doing this and it will help you kill time and not have the headache of possible gridlock with the other gentles trying to leave the castle as soon as the tournament is over.
I highly recommend Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament to anyone local and also anyone visiting from out of town, seats are $59.95 per person they also offer two upgrade options, the Kings Royal package is a $20.00 upgrade and you are guaranteed front row seating in your respective colored section, commemorative program, framed group photo, a behind the scenes DVD (1 per group), and knights cheering banner so you may use it to cheer on your brave knight. The Royalty package, it’s only a $10.00 upgrade and it guarantees your seats closer to the arena like row two or three, commemorative program, and knights cheering banner. The Royalty package is what I recommend to any gentles who are visiting the castle for the first time.
My lords and ladies, are you ready to step forth and step back in time, then you are ready to visit Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament in Buena Park, CA. 7662 Beach Blvd. Buena Park, CA 90620. To make a reservation please call 1 (888) 935-6878 or visit www.medievaltimes.com.
Halloween is just around the spooky corner. To get your little ones ready – Factory Kids and Hasbro Studios is releasing My Little Pony – Friendship is Magic Spooktacular Pony Tales on DVD.
The DVD includes episodes with all the Little Pony favorites from Ponyville – Rarity, AppleJack, Pinkie Pie, Spike, Fluttershy, Princess Luna and my two favorites Twilight Sparkle and Rainbow Dash.
The 6 Episodes included in the DVD are titled – Boast Busters, Stare Masters, Luna Eclipsed, Sleepless in Ponyville, Castle Mane-ia, Bats! Boast Busters starts the DVD with a battle between the Ponyville favorites and a newcomer Trixie, who is likes to go around showing off her magical powers. Luna Eclipsed has Princess Luna visiting Ponyville during the Halloween festival and wanting to just fit in instead of having everyone running away and scared of her. Sleepless in Ponyville about a camping trip and spooky stories was very cute, but might give the little ones nightmares. Castle Mane-ia has Rainbow Dash and Apple Jack competing for the title of most daring pony by spending the night at a haunted castle. The last episode – Bats! has Apple Jack fighting a swarm of bats who have destroyed the apple orchard. What happens to Fluttershy in the Bats! episode is something My Little Pony fans will not want to miss.
All the episodes were cute and as always teach kids a lesson in teamwork and friendship. The Halloween theme featured in each might be a bit scary for the younger viewers, but older kids will enjoy the stories. The Bats! sing along at the end of the DVD will have the kids singing “Stop the bats, Stop the bats, make them go and not come back” over and over again.
My Little Pony- Friendship is Magic Spooktacular Pony Tales is a perfect addition to your collection. Get your copy soon and enjoy the DVD, poster and pumpkin carving stencils with your little witches and goblins.
My name is Loretta Garcia and I am an independent travel agent ready to book your next Amazing Magical Adventures. Follow me on my Facebook page for travel news and updates.
Knott’s Berry Farm Season Passes – one of the best entertainment values in all of Southern California – are now on sale for 2015 at the best price of the season. This year, Passholders can add the new All Season Dining Plan to their Pass and enjoy endless dining options all season long.
The All Season Dining Plan allows Season Passholders the opportunity to enjoy an entree and a side twice daily, every four hours, at one of Knott’s Berry Farm’s participating restaurants for as little as $99.00, or with nine Easy Pay payments of just $11.00, when purchased in the same transaction as your 2015 Season Pass; that’s over 700 meals per year for one unbeatable price! The convenient All Season Dining Plan can be purchased by simply adding it to a new or renewed Season Pass while shopping online or by purchasing it separately at the theme park. Passholders can begin satisfying their hunger for savings when Season Pass Dining debuts on January 1, 2015.
Knott’s 2015 Season Passes offer unlimited visits in 2015 with no blackout dates, allowing guests to enjoy everything from the completely refurbished Calico Mine Ride and Timber Mountain Log Ride to the fresh Camp Snoopy with three new rides. Season Passes are now on sale at the best price of the season for just nine easy payments of $8.50, or for nine easy payments of $19.50 when the All Season Dining Plan is added (prices valid for a limited time; plus applicable taxes and fees).
Knott’s 2015 Season Passes offer incredible discounts, perks and special events, including:
• Convenient easy pay program (for a limited time)
• One FREE visit during the 2014 season
• Additional visits for just $9.99 each through December 31, 2014*
• Unlimited visits in 2015 with no blackout dates
• Access to Knott’s great seasonal offerings, including Knott’s Merry Farm and Camp Spooky
• Discounts on select food and merchandise
• Discounts on Knott’s Scary Farm tickets
• Early Ride Time on select rides during the summer
• Other great Season Pass perks and surprises throughout the year!
* Per Pass Holder /per day/ non-transferrable.
For information about Knott’s Berry Farm, and a complete list of the All Season Dining Plan redemption locations, visit www.knotts.com. (Locations and entrees are subject to change.)
Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort is a one-of-a-kind celebration of chilling, family friendly fun. From Friday, Sept. 12, through Friday, Oct. 31, guests will explore their spooky Disney Side with special Halloween transformations of Haunted Mansion and Space Mountain; encounter Disney villains conjured by a magic cauldron; dance to the Mad T Party band and meet Mickey Mouse and his friends in Halloween costumes.
An additional Halloween Time highlight is the separate-ticket, after-hours Mickey’s Halloween Party, where adults and children show their Disney Side by dressing in costumes, trick-or-treating at Disneyland Park and enjoying an array of special entertainment, including the exclusive “Halloween Screams” fireworks spectacular.
New to Halloween Time at Disneyland this year are the latest twists at Haunted Mansion Holiday and additional entertainment experiences at the Halloween Carnival at Big Thunder Ranch, with more mysterious fun joining the Astounding Cauldron of Magic.
Spooky Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy in Tomorrowland is one of the guest favorites during Halloween Time. The unique Halloween-themed experience begins as a typical Space Mountain adventure, but suddenly launches voyagers into a haunted section of the universe. Ghosts appear out of the starry darkness and swirling galaxies of Space Mountain, reaching out as if to grab guests as they speed through space. The exhilarating drops and curves are punctuated by piercing screams, creepy sound effects and haunting music.
Jack Skellington returns to Disneyland to take over the Haunted Mansion and brings Haunted Mansion Holiday back to New Orleans Square. Transformed with a mix of Halloween spookiness and Christmas cheer, Haunted Mansion Holiday is inspired by the classic animated film “Tim Burton’s Nightmare Before Christmas.”
Guests find new surprises within the Mansion every Halloween, including this year’s special gingerbread house, designed to resemble an “iron maiden” coffin with spikes (candy canes) and a hapless gingerbread zombie trapped inside. This is the 14th original gingerbread design since Haunted Mansion Holiday debuted in 2001. This one features opening and closing doors, lights and a very unhappy zombie struggling for his un-life.
In addition to Haunted Mansion Holiday and Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy:
In Frontierland, guests discover an exciting, new magic show presented on the Halloween Carnival stage at Big Thunder Ranch. Nearby they also may conjure up a Disney Villain at the “Astounding Cauldron of Magic” sideshow tent at the Halloween Carnival.
Also at the Halloween Carnival in Big Thunder Ranch, guests encounter favorite Disney characters in Halloween costumes, pumpkin carvers showing their Disney Side with elaborate creations, Halloween décor and activities for youngsters.
Main Street, U.S.A. in Disneyland transforms to become the Pumpkin Festival, with hundreds of pumpkins on display, no two of them the same.
Guests age three and up show their Disney Side and live their pirate dreams as they learn the ways of the seven seas at The Pirates League. A part of the Halloween Carnival, The Pirates League offers a variety of pirate transformation options: Jake and the Never Land Pirates, Captain Hook, Ghosted Pirate, Black Beard, Black Eyed Jack, and Empress, created especially for pirate princesses. For The Pirates League reservations call 714-781-STYLE / 714-781-7895.
Frontierland observes Dia de los Muertos with a traditional skeleton display that will remain through Sunday, Nov. 2.
In Disney California Adventure Park, Halloween Time offers frightful fun for guests of all ages, with favorite attractions such as The Twilight Zone™ Tower of Terror, where a “supernatural” event happened on Halloween evening 1939, 75 years ago, forever haunting the building with spine-tingling fun. Also at Disney California Adventure, the nighttime Mad T Party in Hollywood Land gets some new Halloween spice. Tweedledee and Tweedledum welcome guests as the Mad Hatter offers some devilishly delicious All Hallows Eve fun featuring new Halloween music and a chilling new look for Mad T Party band.
Mickey’s Halloween Party, a separate-ticket event* for trick-or-treating families, expands to 14 special, spooky nights in Disneyland. Highlights of Mickey’s Halloween Party include:
“Villains Square.” Throughout the evening, the Disney villains arrive in Disneyland Town Square as the “Bad Apple Party Crashers,” riding a black horse-drawn carriage accompanied by thunder, fog and special lighting effects. Villains such as Cruella De Vil, the Queen of Hearts, Judge Frollo from “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” and Lady Tremaine from “Cinderella” appear for photos and character greetings, and guests are invited to “Party Like a Villain.”
The opportunity to play in Disneyland for three hours before the party starts
Trick or Treating – candy and healthy treats - in the ultimate Disney neighborhood
The “Halloween Screams” fireworks spectacular, hosted by “Master of Scare-omonies” Jack Skellington (presented exclusively for guests of Mickey’s Halloween Party, weather permitting)
“Mickey’s Costume Party” cavalcade featuring some favorite characters, performed twice nightly and preceded by the new “Frozen” float with Elsa, Anna and Olaf from the blockbuster animated film
“Monsters U Dance Party” at Tomorrowland Terrace: Class time is over and the students of Monsters University join Halloween Time guests in a family-friendly frat party with the most popular students from Monsters U, Mike & Sulley.
The Cadaver Dans, a ghoulish quartet performing Halloween-themed tunes aboard a drifting graveyard-themed raft on the Rivers of America in New Orleans Square and Frontierland
Photo locations with popular Disney and Pixar Pals, plus Disney Villains
Nearly all the favorite Disneyland rides and attractions, plus Haunted Mansion Holiday and Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy
Complimentary parking for one standard-size vehicle
Tickets for Mickey’s Halloween Party may be purchased online and, for the first time, 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 14 nights: Friday, Sept. 26; Tuesday, Sept. 30; Friday, Oct. 3; Monday, Oct. 6; Wednesday, Oct. 8; Friday, Oct. 10; Tuesday, Oct. 14; Friday, Oct. 17; Monday, Oct. 20; Wednesday, Oct. 22; Friday, Oct. 24; Monday, Oct. 27; Wednesday, Oct. 29; and Friday, Oct. 31. Online purchase is not available the day of the event.
Tickets purchased in advance are available at a discount on select nights. Tickets purchased on the day of the event are $70 each. All tickets to Mickey’s Halloween Party on Halloween Night, Friday, Oct. 31, are $77 each. Mickey’s Halloween Party is a non-smoking event. Smoking will be permitted only in the Esplanade outside the Disneyland Main Entrance.
For more information about Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort, see www.Disneyland.com/Halloween. This site will be updated with frightfully fun details.
Here are this week’s Disney and Orlando deals from our friends over at Destinations in Florida Travel
Stay at Disney’s Contemporary Resort and Walk to Magic Kingdom Park
Disney Discounts
Walt Disney World Resort
Save up to 30% off Disney Resort Hotels: Planning a visit during the late Fall to Orlando? You still have time to save up to 30% off Disney Resort Hotels through November 25, 2014.
Active/Retired Military Rates: For US active and retired military, save money on tickets and resort accommodations through October 2015.
Florida Resident & Annual Passholder Rates: Florida Residents and Annual Passholders can take advantage of great rates on rooms at select Disney Resort Hotels up to 35% off.
RunDisney Group Rates: Are you a runner? Do you want to run a race with Mickey Mouse? Join our VIP runners at Destinations in Florida for some of the favorite races including Tower of Terror 10 Miler, Walt Disney World Marathon, and Princess Half Weekend. These exclusive rates are only with our agency.
Disneyland Resort
Save up to 20% off Disneyland Resorts: For a limited time, you can save up to 20% off your hotel accommodations through September 27, 2014.
Retired Military Rates: For US active and retired military, save money on tickets and resort accommodations through October 2015.
Book a Package for as Little as $89 Per Person/Per Day: Stay right down the road from the Disney Magic at a Good Neighbor Hotel from now through November 21 for as little as $89 per person/per day.
3rd, 4th or 5th Night Free at Disneyland Good Neighbor Hotels: Visit Anaheim during select nights through December 2014. Stay at select Disney Good Neighbor Hotels and enjoy a 3rd night, 4th night or 5th night free.
RunDisney and D23 Expo Group Rates: Are you a runner? Do you want to run a race with Mickey Mouse? Join our VIP runners at Destinations in Florida for some of the favorite races including Stars Wars Half Weekend, Tinkerbell Half Weekend and D23 Expo. These exclusive rates are only with our agency.
Disney Cruise Line
Canadian Residents Save up to 20% Off: From November 2014-January 2015, Canadian Residents can save up to 20% off Disney Cruise prices on select cruises.
Special Rates for Florida Residents and US Military: Take advantage of special deals for Florida Residents and active/retired United States Military.
Universal Orlando Resort Discounts
Universal Hotel Discounts: Save up to 30% at Universal Orlando Onsite Resorts this holiday season through December 2014.
A Celebration of Harry Potter: The 2nd Annual Event hosted by Warner Brothers and Universal Orlando takes place January 30-February 1, 2015. Exclusive Onsite Packages start at $219/person and include 3-Night Accommodations, 3-Day Park-to-Park tickets, Access to an exclusive evening event at Wizarding World of Harry Potter-Hogsmeade, Special Guest access to Harry Potter Expo, Reserved seating/viewing for select Celebration events, Breakfast at Three Broomsticks and more!
Florida Resident Halloween Horror Nights Package: Are you ready to scream? You can now book a HHN Package at special savings, just for Florida Residents.
Halloween Horror Nights Packages: For non-Florida Residents, you can still save money with a special HHN Package from $459 per adult at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort most Sun-Thurs September 19-November 1, 2014.
Halloween Horror Nights Tickets: Pre-order your HHN tickets to save money and lock in your favorite date. These are now available as stand alone tickets or they can be added to any Universal Orlando package.
Cabana Bay Beach Resort Florida Resident Deal: Florida Residents can experience this new hotel from just $79 per night plus tax.
Universal 1-Day or 2-Day Pass with Shuttle Transportation for 2014: Take a day away from the Disney World Parks to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter! Book a 1-Day or 2-Day Pass to Universal Studios with shuttle transportation included in the ticket.
“Take 2” Transfer: If you do not want to rent a car during your Orlando vacation, take advantage of the new “Take 2” Transfer ticket for only $39 per person. This transfer includes transportation from a Disney Resort hotel to Universal Orlando Resort for a Universal Studios vacation. After your Universal vacation, the transportation takes you back to the Orlando International Airport.
Sea World Discounts
Eat for Free During Your Vacation: Book your Sea World package at one of the partner hotels and get the All Day Dining Deal for FREE!
Kids Free at Sea World: Book your Sea World Package and kids play for free. You will receive one free child ticket (ages 3-9) for every paid adult.
Other Orlando Discounts
Richard Petty Driving Experience: Are you ready to get really scared? How about a Rookie Experience at the Richard Petty Driving Experience at Walt Disney World? Learn how to drive and then drive a real Nascar. If you book by September 30, you get a free ride-along (valued at $99).
When Heather isn’t busy sharing Planning tips about Walt Disney World, the Disneyland Resort, Universal Orlando, and more, you can find her planning Disney and Universal Orlando vacations. Contact her on Facebook at Heather Abbott-Agent with Destinations in Florida. For more info and to book your travel, use the Price Your Vacation Form in the Sidebar or click here. You can also call 877-918-8941 and ask for Heather to book. Make sure to mention that you were referred by Socalthrills.com! Safe travels everyone!
Disney+ is kicking off January 2026 with a powerhouse lineup that bridges iconic legacies and bold new entries into the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Headlining...
