Walt Disney Animation Studios Unleashes "Big Hero 6" Lineup

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July 15, 2014

Walt Disney Animation Studios officially announced the voice cast behind the new action-packed comedy-adventure “Big Hero 6,” including Maya Rudolph, James Cromwell, Damon Wayans Jr., T.J. Miller, Alan Tudyk, Jamie Chung, Genesis Rodriguez and Daniel Henney, with Ryan Potter as Hiro Hamada and Scott Adsit as Baymax. Directed by Don Hall (“Winnie the Pooh”) and Chris Williams (“Bolt”), and produced by Roy Conli (“Tangled”), “Big Hero 6” hits theaters in 3D on November 7, 2014.

“We’re so impressed with what these performers have been able to bring to their characters,” said Hall. “The story really calls for each performer to give a wide range of emotions—from light-hearted to some seriously heavy moments—and this cast has been incredible.”

· Voiced by RYAN POTTER (“Supah Ninjas,” “Senior Project”), robotics prodigy HIRO HAMADA has the mind of a genius—and the heart of a 14-year-old: his state-of-the-art battle-bots dominate the underground bot fights held in the dark corners of San Fransokyo. Fortunately, big brother Tadashi redirects Hiro’s brilliance, inspiring him to put his brain to the test in a quest to gain admission to the San Fransokyo Institute of Technology. When a tragic event changes everything, Hiro turns to a robot named Baymax, and they form an unbreakable bond—and two-sixths of a band of high-tech heroes on a very important mission.

· SCOTT ADSIT (“30 Rock,” “St. Vincent”) provides the voice of the world’s most compassionate robot. BAYMAX cares. That’s what he was designed to do. The plus-sized inflatable robot’s job title is technically Healthcare Companion: With a simple scan, Baymax can detect vital stats, and given a patient’s level of pain, can treat nearly any ailment. Conceived and built by Tadashi Hamada, Baymax just might revolutionize the healthcare industry. But to the inventor’s kid brother Hiro, the nurturing, guileless bot turns out to be more than what he was built for—he’s a hero, and quite possibly Hiro’s closest friend. And after some deft reprogramming that includes a rocket fist, super strength and rocket thrusters that allow him to fly, Baymax becomes one of the “Big Hero 6.”

· Voiced by T.J. MILLER (HBO’s “Silicon Valley,” “Transformers: Age of Extinction,” “How to Train Your Dragon 2”), fanboy FRED comes off like a laid-back dude with no direction. But this sign-twirling, monster-loving, comic-book aficionado is sure to go places—when he’s good and ready. For example, Fred doesn’t hesitate to join “Big Hero 6,” and he has a lot of ideas for his super-hero skillset, too. His ferocious, fire-breathing alter ego comes complete with claws, integrated communications and a super bounce. But his sign-spinning may still come in handy.

· JAMIE CHUNG (“Sin City: A Dame to Kill For,” “Once Upon A Time,” “The Hangover Part II & Part III”) steps up as the voice of the aptly named GO GO TOMAGO, who knows what it takes to be fast. She’s tough, athletic and loyal to the bone, but not much of a conversationalist. Popping bubble gum and delivering well-placed sarcasm are totally her speed. The daredevil adrenaline junkie is at her best on wheels, and when Go Go joins forces with “Big Hero 6,” she rolls like never before, using maglev discs as wheels, shields and throwing weapons.

· DAMON WAYANS JR. (“Let’s Be Cops,” “Happy Endings”) provides the voice of WASABI, who’s committed to precision. He’s super smart and just a touch neurotic, but the big and burly neatnik can’t help but join the cause when Hiro needs him most. As part of “Big Hero 6,” Wasabi amplifies his martial arts skills with jaw-dropping plasma blade weaponry. Sharp doesn’t even begin to describe this guy.

· GENESIS RODRIGUEZ (“Tusk” and “Run All Night”) was called on to help bring Honey Lemon to life. It’s elemental when it comes to chemistry whiz HONEY LEMON. Don’t let her glasses and funky fashion fool you: Honey may be as sweet as her namesake, but she has a fire in her belly and a can-do attitude that make her pretty much unstoppable. Her knowledge of alchemy proves powerful, too, when the effusive brainiac becomes part of the “Big Hero 6” and creates clever concoctions that when thrown, can get her team out of nearly any jam.

· DANIEL HENNEY (“X-Men Origins: Wolverine”) was called on to give voice to TADASHI HAMADA. Tadashi is a good guy. He just is. He actually developed, built and programmed a state-of-the-art nursebot—a Healthcare Companion named Baymax that will likely help millions worldwide. But it’s his role as big brother that makes Tadashi truly special. Every kid needs a guy like Tadashi looking out for him, and Hiro knows just how lucky he is to have him in his life.

· MAYA RUDOLPH (TV’s “Saturday Night Live,” “Maya Rudolph Variety Show,” Bridesmaids”) provides the voice of AUNT CASS, who’s the overworked but always-supportive guardian of brothers Hiro and Tadashi. The owner of a popular San Fransokyo bakery and coffee shop, Aunt Cass is proud, ebullient and thinks the world of her two genius nephews. She’s always good for a laugh and ready with a hug, tirelessly there for support and a great home-cooked meal.

· Voiced by JAMES CROMWELL (“Murder in the First,” “L.A. Confidential”), PROFESSOR ROBERT CALLAGHAN heads up the robotics program at the prestigious San Fransokyo Institute of Technology and is Tadashi’s professor and mentor. When Hiro visits the university for the first time, he is star-struck by the world-renowned roboticist—while Callaghan immediately sees the potential in the 14-year-old prodigy, encouraging him to put his brain to better use.

· Pioneer entrepreneur and tech guru ALISTAIR KREI is voiced by ALAN TUDYK (“Tell,” “Welcome to Me,” “42”). San Fransokyo Institute of Technology’s most illustrious alum and owner of the biggest technology company in the world, Krei Tech, is always on the hunt for the next big thing. Krei attends the showcase at San Fransokyo Tech and is overwhelmingly impressed by Hiro’s ingenuity.

· YOKAI is the silent masked man behind the terrible tragedy that strikes San Fransokyo, turning Hiro’s world upside down. As a result, Hiro transforms a group of nerds into a team of high-tech crime fighters—“Big Hero 6”—with one mission: Track down Yokai and bring him to justice.

ABOUT THE MOVIE
With all the heart and humor audiences expect from Walt Disney Animation Studios, “Big Hero 6” is an action-packed comedy-adventure about robotics prodigy Hiro Hamada, who learns to harness his genius—thanks to his brilliant brother Tadashi and their like-minded friends: adrenaline junkie Go Go Tomago, neatnik Wasabi, chemistry whiz Honey Lemon and fanboy Fred. When a devastating turn of events catapults them into the midst of a dangerous plot unfolding in the streets of San Fransokyo, Hiro turns to his closest companion—a robot named Baymax—and transforms the group into a band of high-tech heroes determined to solve the mystery.

Inspired by the Marvel comics of the same name, and featuring comic-book style action, “Big Hero 6” is directed by Don Hall (“Winnie the Pooh”) and Chris Williams (“Bolt”), and produced by Roy Conli (“Tangled”). The film hits theaters in 3D on November 7, 2014.

Planes: Fire & Rescue "Do Your Research"

By

Robbie Bulus

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July 14, 2014

“Planes: Fire & Rescue” is a new adventure-comedy about a dynamic crew of elite firefighting aircraft devoted to protecting historic Piston Peak National Park from raging wildfire.

When world-famous air racer Dusty Crophopper learns that his engine is damaged and he may never race again, he must shift gears and is launched into the world of aerial firefighting. “It’s a movie about second chances,” says director Bobs Gannaway (“Secret of the Wings”). “Each character was something else before finding their current roles, and Dusty is a crop duster-turned-racer who can’t race any more. When we learned that historically, the very first air attack teams were crop dusters, it was clear that the plane was telling us where the story was going.”

We had the opportunity to meet with Paul Gerard, Director of Creative Development and Jeff Howard, Co-Writer at a recent press event to discuss the type of research they did to bring this movie to the big screen. One of the biggest aid and resource they started with was with CALFIRE (California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection). The filmmakers got the opportunity to meet with the firefighters to get an idea the types of planes that they use to fight fire. That’s when the concept of “second chances” came into play and became the main theme of the movie.

The team spent time on location at Hemet-Ryan one of main base for CALFIRE. In the state of California there is approximately over 5600 fires a year, some of which that are never heard of. We tend to only hear of the big fires. CalFire battalion chief Travis Alexander not only welcomed the team—allowing them to sketch, take pictures and video, and soak up the atmosphere—he ultimately served as inspiration for one of the main characters. When Dusty arrives to Piston Peak, a fire alarm goes off immediately indicating that fires happen 3-4 times a day. This realism was incorporated into the movie.

The Team also visited national parks such as Yosemite, Yellowstone and Angeles National Forest. Filmmakers knew that the backdrop for “Planes: Fire & Rescue” would have to be vast—the main characters can cover a lot of miles in a single scene—and they wanted it to be lush and scenic. The team ensured that just the right trees were incorporated, including lodgepole pine, ponderosa pine, incense cedar, red woods and giant sequoia. Also included are buckthorn and huckleberry oak.

In additon, the team worked with L.A. County and L.A. City Fire Department, and even the Walt Disney Studios Fire Department. Art director Toby Wilson even tapped the firefighters in his neighborhood—Redondo Beach—for insight. Wilson paid homage to his backyard crew by adding their number E-64 to structural fire engine Pulaski in the film.

'Dawn of the Planet of the Apes' Movie Review

By

Patrick Campbell

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July 11, 2014

“Apes do not want war!”

It’s amazing how much the Planet of the Apes series has changed, and the ups and downs it has gone through. But after Rupert Wyatt’s reboot, Rise of the Planet of the Apes, the series seemed to finally be back on track to return to its glory days. But no one could be prepared for what was to come, as Wyatt stepped out and Matt Reeves stepped in to the directors chair. Reeves, a self proclaimed fan of the series, has dared to take the series in a new direction we haven’t quite seen yet, with his new installment, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes. Partnered with Andy Serkis as the film’s hero, Caesar, this may not only be one of the best films of the year, but the best Planet of the Apes film in the entire franchise.

One of the strongest aspects of Rise of the Planet of the Apes was the time spent with Caesar and the apes, and the way they communicated with each other. Reeves has taken that to the next level here, with really turning the focus of the film onto Caesar and the world of the apes, and the first twenty minutes especially is riveting. Reeves really delves into the life of the apes, and their new world, and the film’s opening twenty minutes really plays like an amazing silent film. Letting Andy Serkis, Toby Kebbell, and Nick Thurston really show off their acting skills as Caesar, Koba, and Blue Eyes makes you feel very attached to the characters, and you start to really care for them.

You can really feel Reeves’ love for the original films behind the scenes here, and he so badly wants to make a movie that goes to the level of the original, but one that really lets you in on the world the apes now inhabit, and he’s completely successful at that here. The way we watch as this world falls to the Simian Flu in the film’s opening prologue, and the way it completely desolated San Francisco, and the world, is really gripping, and you can start to see signs of the way the world was in the original film. The film has a really great script that lets the dynamics of the characters, and the tension between the two factions of apes and humans, really feel bold and new. It’s so interesting that, really, there’s no initial villain. The apes don’t want war with the humans, and the humans don’t want war with the apes, as long as they can find a way to get electricity to the city again. It’s that sort of dynamic, of no one is really the villain in this, and the leaders on both sides really just wanting what’s best for their people, that makes the movie special. It really dares to make you choose a side, when neither side is right or wrong.

Even with Reeves’ love for the series being apparent, this is really a film that’s owned by the actors, and really, this movie is completely owned by Andy Serkis. He was amazing in Rise, but he’s at a whole new level here. Serkis’ performance is absolutely breathtaking, and he has created one of the most lovable and sympathetic characters to ever grace the screen, and the fact he does it so well just with his facial expressions and movements makes it that much more impressive. His stunted speech, as he continues to evolve really grabs you as well, and the way Serkis articulates the words is just really beautiful, and you can tell he’s really taking the time to make sure Caesar, as he evolves, grows into naturally. His progression from the first film to the second just feels seamless and natural, and it’ll be a crime if Serkis isn’t nominated for Best Actor this year at the Academy Awards.

But, surprisingly, Toby Kebbell, who plays Caesar’s right hand, Koba, is almost on Serkis’ level. Koba, the scarred ape from the first film, really doesn’t like the humans, and he believes he’s on a crusade of righteousness, even if Caesar won’t believe him. One of the film’s most pivotal scenes, and quite frankly emotional, comes from Kebbell as he finds himself at odds with Caesar, when he lets the humans stay in the ape camp. Koba doesn’t trust them, and tries to plea with Caesar angrily, not to let them stay, and begins showing his scars in an attempt to show the evil of men. Kebbell just owns the scene, and the role in general, and it’s great to see another actor who really gets how motion capture works, and really takes it to the next level.

The film really does belong to Serkis and Kobbell, but there are human characters as well, but honestly, they aren’t given much to do. The film’s biggest flaw is the humans feel underdeveloped, but honestly, that may be the point. This is the film about the apes, and their world, and the humans just happen stumble back into it. Jason Clarke’s Malcom is an honorable man, much like Franco’s character Will from the first one, and he’s the one who Caesar really connects with. He’s good, but again, he isn’t given too much to work with. The same could be said about Keri Russell and Gary Oldman. Each character has a purpose, but really, they don’t get too much to do. But each one of them is great in their small, but pivotal scenes.

One of the best things about the film though is the escalation in the second and third acts, as Caesar and Koba begin to clash, and the eventual confrontation it brings. Reeves shoots action very well, with no shaky cam to be seen. There’s beautiful tracking shots, and just amazing scenes as the apes begin to revolt and take over San Francisco, and it’s just eerie and beautiful. One thing that really works is during Caesar and Koba’s fight is a callback from the last film, that plays a big part here, and the way it plays out is mesmerizing, and you feel like you’re waiting on baited breath to see what will happen. This is all attributed to Reeves, who really invests us into this world, and these characters, and really makes you feel for them. What does help though is Michael Giacchino’s score, which is very atmospheric and haunting, and really helps push the tension as the film begins to escalate. The man has a way with music that really embodies the feel of the film, pushing it to new heights, and this may be his finest film score to date.

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes is so beyond your typical summer blockbuster. This a film full of emotion, depth, and a truly unique feel. We don’t get many sci-fi films like this anymore. Andy Serkis and Toby Kebbell really push motion capture to new heights as Caesar and Koba, really stealing the film. These are award worthy performances, so hopefully the Academy pays attention to them this time around. Matt Reeves has created a sci-fi tale so grand, so beautiful, and so encapsulating, that it makes you wish we’d see more films like this. His love for the series oozes off the screen, and he has managed to not only make what could be the best Planet of the Apes film to date, but one of the best films of the year, period.

[review]

Disney’s Planes: Fire & Rescue New Product Line

By

Robbie Bulus

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July 10, 2014

Disney Consumer Products (DCP) debuted a dynamic line of products to celebrate the premiere of the high flying comedy-adventure Disney’s Planes: Fire & Rescue, in theaters July 18. The action-packed sequel to Disney’s Planes has inspired a robust lineup of diecast, remote control and interactive toys, apparel, accessories, books and more from Disney Store and best-in-class licensees including Mattel, Thinkway, and more. From infrared controls that bring rescue vehicles to life with sound effects and signature phrases to motion-activated RC toys, the collection allows heroes-in-training to immerse themselves in the action while recreating iconic moments in the film.

“Disney Consumer Products’ Planes: Fire & Rescue product line offers endless opportunities for vehicle play and introduces a new rescue play pattern that celebrates the teamwork and heroism in the film,” said Josh Silverman, executive vice president of global licensing, Disney Consumer Products. “With interactive toys that help knock down fire targets and play sets where Dusty can ‘put out fires,’ Planes fans of all ages can be the heroes in their own stories.”

Disney’s Planes: Fire & Rescue products are available now at retailers nationwide, Disney Store and DisneyStore.com.

Highlights from the product line include:

Interactive Play & Diecast

Planes: Fire & Rescue Fire Blastin’ Dusty by Mattel (MSRP: $49.99): Kids can help world famous air racer Dusty Crophopper save the day and put out the blaze by scooping up “water” balls and launching them at “fire” targets to take them out. “Smart Sounds” technology recognizes Dusty’s left and right position and when he’s shooting the water balls, and he emits action sounds and phrases from the movie to enhance the excitement.

U-Command Fire & Rescue Blade Ranger by Thinkway (MSRP: $59.99): The infrared deluxe RC helicopter features Blade Ranger’s voice and phrases from the film with movable eyes, mouth and propeller that creates engine sounds and flight effects! Control Blade Ranger’s movements with the joysticks on the wireless remote or use the control buttons to maneuver forward, reverse, left or right.

Fire Rescue Attack Launcher by Disney Store ($19.95): Playtime will take flight with the Fire Rescue Attack Launcher! Place the plane in the runway groove and pull back the spring-loader to activate lights and sounds. Squeeze the trigger and launch Dusty, Lil’ Dipper or Cabbie up to 15 feet in the air.

Planes: Fire & Rescue Deluxe Die Cast by Disney Store ($19.95): Blade Ranger, Windlifter and Muir will heat up the action as fans recreate their favorite scenes from Disney’s latest aeronautical adventure, Planes: Fire & Rescue, with these detailed deluxe diecast vehicles.

Mobile Rescue Gear & Apparel

Disney’s Planes: Fire & Rescue Dusty-Mobo Tot by Mobo Cruiser (MSRP: $149.99): This Dusty version of the Mobo Tot is an elite ergonomically-designed cruiser for children ages 2-5 that stimulates imagination and promotes outdoor fun.

Planes: Fire & Rescue Scooter by Huffy (MSRP $19.99): Race to your next adventure in this Planes: Fire & Rescue folding scooter! The orange aluminum scooter deck is fully wrapped with a grip tape and printed with a scene from the new comedy-adventure film!

Planes: Fire & Rescue Bomber Jacket & Aviator Hat by Disney Store ($49.95, $14.95): The soft faux shearling lining of the Planes: Fire & Rescue bomber jacket and aviator hat will keep your little flier snug and stylish whether soaring off to school, piloting to a play date or practicing Dusty’s heroic maneuvers.

Planes: Fire & Rescue Backpack and Lunch Tote by Disney Store ($22.95-14.95): Dusty leads the way as he appears to fly right out of this Planes: Fire & Rescue backpack and lunch tote that has storage space for all your pilot’s cargo. Lenticular artwork features Pontoon Dusty, followed by Blade Ranger, Windlifter, and Cabbie.

Stories for Little Aviators

Planes: Fire & Rescue Read-Along Storybook & CD by Disney Press (MSRP: $6.99): Follow the thrilling adventures of Dusty Crophopper and all his pals in this exciting read-along. Complete with music, sound effects, and character voices, kids will love this new high-flying story.

Planes: Fire & Rescue App by Disney Publishing Worldwide (Free with in-app purchase): Join the adventure in this interactive retelling of the all-new feature film! Fans can read-along with this interactive story, filled with tappables and fun-filled games. Whether readers are fighting fires with Mayday, training with Dusty, or smoke jumping with the team, they will learn what it takes to become a real hero.

'Fast & Furious 7' Finishes Shooting, Read a Letter to the Fans

By

Patrick Campbell

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July 10, 2014

Over the last six years, the Fast & Furious franchise has grown to become one of the biggest, most fun, and most surprising movie series to be on the big screen. Director Justin Lin really reinvigorated over the last four films, changing the formula, and really delving into the family that the series has built on screen, as well as off. But the series was dealt a huge blow last November when actor Paul Walker, who had been with the Fast & Furious since the beginning, was tragically killed in a car accident, leaving the seventh film in the series in a tough, and unprecedented spot. Would the film be finished, or would they cancel it outright?

But Vin Diesel, director James Wan, writer Chris Morgan, and the rest of the Fast & Furious family, with the help of Paul’s brothers Cody and Caleb, took the time to regroup, rescript, and decided to push forward and finish the film. The film, which was originally supposed to be out this month, has now finished production, and the official Fast and the Furious Facebook page posted a new photo from the film, announcing the film’s completion, as well as a very heartfelt letter to the fans which you can read below.

We made it.

Today we completed the last shot in the production of FAST & FURIOUS 7.

We wanted to take this moment to express how thankful we are for your support. We felt the love and strength from our fans throughout this journey, and it’s because of you that we got here.

There was a time when we didn’t know how we could go on, or even if we should. But we listened to you, and you inspired us not only to keep going but to try and make the best FAST & FURIOUS movie yet.

Our FAST family has been together for almost fifteen years now and has grown a lot in that time. From the start, Vin has been our leader who feels what’s right for FAST in his gut and in his heart. When we had to stop production last year, Vin gathered us back together and moved us forward when we needed it most. He led us to this day.

Some of us have been here from the very beginning. Vin, Michelle, Jordana and our producer Neal all go back to that first little movie we shot on the streets of LA. We came back to LA in FAST 7, and it was an especially emotional homecoming for those who’ve grown up with each other since that first shoot.

There are those we count as brothers who we gathered along the way and are with us again: Dwayne, Tyrese, Luda, Lucas and our writer, Chris. We’ve got some new additions this time in Jason, Kurt, Djimon, Nathalie and our director, James. Caleb and Cody joined us to honor their brother and help complete his work.

Our family is big and strong but it won’t ever quite be whole again without Paul.

All of us — those who’ve been here from the start and those whose first FAST film is 7 — wanted to create a special film for him and for you. We believe we have.

Thank you for being there for us. You are the biggest part of our family, and we couldn’t have gotten here without you.

The countdown to April 3 begins.

With love,

Your FAST & FURIOUS Family

Well, that definitely left me with a lot of feelings, and I’m really happy to see they’ve managed to finish the film. I look forward to seeing what they were able to do, and what they’ve done to honor Paul Walker.

Fast & Furious 7, which stars Vin Diesel, Dwayne Johnson, Michelle Rodriguez, Jordana Brewster, Tyrese Gibson, Jason Statham, Kurt Russell, Djimon Hounsou, and Lucas Black, and is directed by James Wan, is set for release April 3, 2015.

Marvel's “Guardians of the Galaxy” Special Extended Look

By

Robbie Bulus

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July 9, 2014

Marvel’s “Guardians of the Galaxy” finds space adventurer Peter Quill the object of a bounty hunt after stealing an orb coveted by a treacherous villain, but when Quill discovers the power it holds, he must find a way to rally the quartet of ragtag rivals hot on his trail to save the universe.

Marvel’s “Guardians of the Galaxy,” which first appeared in comic books in Marvel Super-Heroes, Issue #18 (Jan. 1969), stars Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, featuring Vin Diesel as Groot, Bradley Cooper as Rocket, Lee Pace, Michael Rooker, Karen Gillan, Djimon Hounsou, with John C. Reilly, Glenn Close as Nova Prime and Benicio Del Toro as The Collector.

James Gunn is the director of the film with Kevin Feige, p.g.a., producing. Louis D’Esposito, Alan Fine, Victoria Alonso, Jeremy Latcham, Nik Korda and Stan Lee serve as executive producers. Marvel’s “Guardians of the Galaxy” is written by James Gunn and Nicole Perlman and releases in U.S. theaters on August 1, 2014.

Check out this special extended look:

Are you excited to watch this movie? Let us know in the comments below.

Learn How to Draw Dusty & Dipper from "Planes: Fire & Rescue"

By

Robbie Bulus

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July 9, 2014

“Planes: Fire & Rescue” is a new adventure-comedy about second chances, featuring a dynamic crew of elite firefighting aircraft devoted to protecting historic Piston Peak National Park from raging wildfire. When world famous air racer Dusty (voice of Dane Cook) learns that his engine is damaged and he may never race again, he must shift gears and is launched into the world of aerial firefighting. Dusty joins forces with veteran fire-and-rescue helicopter Blade Ranger (voice of Ed Harris) and his courageous team, including spirited air tanker Dipper (voice of Julie Bowen), heavy-lift helicopter Windlifter (voice of Wes Studi), ex-military transport Cabbie (voice of Captain Dale Dye) and a lively bunch of brave all-terrain vehicles known as The Smokejumpers. Together, the fearless team battles a massive wildfire and Dusty learns what it takes to become a true hero. Directed by Bobs Gannaway (“Secret of the Wings”) and produced by Ferrell Barron (“The Fox and the Hound 2”), “Planes: Fire & Rescue” hits theaters in 3D on July 18, 2014.

“Planes: Fire & Rescue” head of story Art Hernandez demonstrates how to draw two of the main characters from the film, Dusty & Dipper, in two fun easy to follow videos.

How to Draw Dusty:

How to Draw Dipper:

StarWars.com Relaunches with a new Redesigned site

By

Robbie Bulus

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July 9, 2014

Lucasfilm and Disney Interactive launched the all-new StarWars.com experience, the digital destination and first source for all Star Wars film, TV, and video game news. The new site features:

Long-form articles and videos that go behind the scenes of past, current and upcoming projects

Exclusive online videos, including a behind the scenes video of the making of Chopper from the upcoming series Star Wars: Rebels, and more to come in the following weeks

The immersive Databank, an encyclopedia of hundreds of pieces of Star Wars knowledge about characters, creatures, locations, droids and devices.

Details about upcoming fan events

Users can log in with their Disney ID to access upcoming special features and digital experiences

New, simple navigation and design

Rich, consistent experience across all platforms and devices using the same technology that powers the entire Disney Interactive Media portfolio

Designed for the next generation of Star Wars fans, the new site is built using responsive design technology offering a rich and consistent experience across all platforms including desktop, mobile, and tablet devices and transforms the way Guests discover Star Wars online.

Here is an example video from the new site. (click on the StarWars logo to play the video)

Droid Design: Chopper from Star Wars Rebels Comes to Life on Star Wars Video

Since StarWars.com is part of the Disney network, users can log in with their Disney ID to access upcoming special features and digital experiences. In the coming weeks, fans will see more exclusive videos, in-depth coverage, interactive elements, and community functionality to connect and share with Star Wars fans around the world.

Check out the new StarWars.com experience.

This was first posted on the Disney Interactive blog.

Celebrate Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort Sept. 12-Oct. 31

By

Robbie Bulus

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July 5, 2014

Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort transforms Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Parks into cheerfully spooky, family-friendly Halloween environments beginning Friday, Sept. 12. Highlights include the seasonal re-theming of Haunted Mansion Holiday and Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy, Mickey Mouse and his friends in Halloween costumes, and a special focus on Disney Villains.

‘Mickey’s Halloween Party’ Pre-Sale Begins July 16; General Public Ticket Sales Begin July 30

The after-hours, separate-ticket* Mickey’s Halloween Party, a popular Halloween Time highlight for many Disneyland Park guests, will expand to 14 special nights this year. Mickey’s Halloween Party invites adults and children to dress up in costume and trick-or-treat at Disneyland Park, enjoying candy and healthy treats. Party guests get the extra benefit of being able to arrive early and play in Disneyland for three hours prior to the start of Mickey’s private bash.

The 2014 dates for Mickey’s Halloween Party are: 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.

Highlights of Mickey’s Halloween Party include:

The “Halloween Screams” fireworks spectacular, hosted by “Master of Scare-omonies” Jack Skellington (presented exclusively for guests of Mickey’s Halloween Party)

“Monsters U Dance Party” at Tomorrowland Terrace, where guests can join Mike & Sulley and their fellow students of Monsters University in a fun and family-friendly frat party.

“Mickey’s Costume Party” cavalcade featuring some favorite characters, performed twice nightly

Disney villains arriving amid thunder and lightning to transform Town Square into Villains Square, on Main Street, U.S.A.

The Cadaver Dans ghoul quartet, performing Halloween-themed tunes aboard a drifting graveyard-themed raft on the Rivers of America

An opportunity for everyone in the family to attend the park in costume.

Photo locations with popular Disney and Pixar Pals, and Disney Villains

Nearly all the Disneyland rides and attractions, plus Haunted Mansion Holiday and Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy

Parking for one standard-size vehicle is included with the purchase of Mickey’s Halloween Party tickets.

Tickets to Mickey’s Halloween Party go on sale for Annual Passholders, Disney Vacation Club members and Disney Visa Card members on Wednesday, July 16, and for the general public on Wednesday, July 30. They 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. Online purchase is not available on 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.

Along with the special Mickey’s Halloween Party, the daily Halloween Time celebration at Disneyland Resort, Sept. 12 through Oct. 31, offers frightful fun for guests of all ages. Guests will enjoy Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy, which launches guests into a haunted section of the universe where ghosts appear out of the starry darkness and the exhilarating drops are punctuated by piercing screams and haunting music.

Jack Skellington returns to take over the Haunted Mansion and bring Haunted Mansion Holiday back to New Orleans Square in Disneyland. Transformed with a mix of Halloween spookiness and Christmas tradition, Haunted Mansion Holiday is inspired by the classic animated film “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.” Each year brings a new design and new surprises to the traditional Halloween/Christmas gingerbread house in the Mansion Ballroom.

In addition to the seasonal Haunted Mansion Holiday and Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy:

For spine-tingling fun, drop in at The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror™* at Disney California Adventure. This popular year-round attraction begins with the story of a “supernatural” event that happened on Halloween night, 1939, forever haunting the building.

Main Street, U.S.A., in Disneyland is transformed for the Pumpkin Festival, with hundreds of pumpkins on display, no two of them the same.

Disney villains will be conjured up in a sideshow tent at the Halloween Carnival at Big Thunder Ranch in Frontierland. The Halloween Carnival also features pumpkin carvers, Halloween activities for youngsters and favorite Disney characters in Halloween costumes.

Frontierland pays tribute to Dia de los Muertos, an Hispanic observance, with a traditional skeleton display.

For more details about Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort, see Disneyland.com/Halloween. This site will be updated with frightfully fun details.

'Sherlock' Returning with Four New Episodes Starting in 2015

By

Patrick Campbell

-

July 2, 2014

Fans of Sherlock, rejoice! The BBC has confirmed that the hit series, which stars Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman as the super sleuthing duo of Sherlock Holmes and Watson, will return next year with a special, and then a three episode Season 4 in 2016. The wait between each season of Sherlock seems to get longer, as Cumberbatch and Freeman continue to become bigger stars with high profile projects, but it’s good to see that there’s hope to try and make the fans happy by doing a special between season 3 and 4. It’s not a lot, but it’s enough to get me excited for what’s to come.

Season 3 of Sherlock certainly ended with quite a bang, and I’m very excited to see where the show is going to go from here. It really does get hard waiting between each season, but I’m really glad to see that Cumberbatch and Freeman are getting the recognition for their acting they deserve, and they’re able to pull so many great projects between each season. Steven Moffat, the show runner and co-creator of the series, has his hands full as well, as he’s also currently running the incredibly popular series Doctor Who, which is seeing the start of its Eighth Season this summer, and he’s already begun work on next year’s Ninth Season, which will see Peter Capaldi taking over as the Doctor, picking up the mantle for Matt Smith. It’s good to see that Moffat, Cumberbatch, and Freeman haven’t turned their back on the show, even with all the things they’re doing right now, and I can’t wait to see them come back together for Season 4.

Check out the full press release below:

Sherlock, the hit BBC One drama produced by Hartswood Films, will return to screens for a Special, followed by a series of three new episodes. The last series saw Sherlock’s life change a lot – he returned from the dead, his best friend John Watson married Mary Morstan and he met his match in Charles Augustus Magnussen. After the briefest of exiles, Sherlock came back only to face one of his biggest mysteries yet. Why is Moriarty’s face being broadcast on every television in the land?

Speaking about the return of the series, co-creator, writer and executive producer Steven Moffat says: “A special, plus a new series of three episodes – it’s a record-breaking run! Of course, it’s far too early to say what’s coming, but we’re reasonably confident that the very next thing to happen to Sherlock and John, is the very last thing you’d expect…”

Co-creator, writer and executive producer Mark Gatiss, adds: “Series Four! At last ! It’s always special to return to Sherlock but this time it’s even more special as we’re doing… a Special! Not only THAT, we’ll then be shooting three more episodes which will take Sherlock and John Watson into deeper and darker water than ever before. The whole Sherlock team are terrifically excited to return for four new adventures. The Game is on – again!”

Sue Vertue, Executive Producer, Hartswood Films says: “It’s taken a little while to get the dates sorted as none of the boys are exactly sitting back twiddling their thumbs but there was unanimous goodwill to make this work, so we’re thrilled that 221b is going to be inhabited again.”

Charlotte Moore, Controller of BBC One, says: “It’s a very good day in the life of a BBC One Controller when you can announce Sherlock will return for a special plus a new three-part series. Massive thanks to Sue Vertue and Hartswood Films for pulling this off, it’s no mean feat pinning down some of this country’s most brilliant and in-demand actors and writers.”

Ben Stephenson, Controller, BBC Drama, says: “Steven and Mark are ready to unleash the most shocking and surprising series of Sherlock yet. The only thing to expect is the unexpected…”

Sherlock is written and created by Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss, and inspired by the works of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Sherlock is produced by Sue Vertue and the executive producers are Beryl Vertue, Mark Gatiss and Steven Moffat for Hartswood Films, Bethan Jones for BBC Cymru Wales and Rebecca Eaton for Masterpiece.

Shooting on the special will begin in January 2015, with the series shooting later next year.

Are you excited to return to 221b Baker Street for another season of Sherlock? Leave your thoughts in the usual place!

'Horrible Bosses 2' Teaser: From Killing to Kidnapping

By

Patrick Campbell

-

July 2, 2014

The first teaser trailer for Horrible Bosses 2 has arrived, and it looks exactly like you’d expect from the follow up to the surprise 2011 comedy. The film sees the core three of Jason Bateman, Charlie Day, and Jason Sudeikis returning, as well as Kevin Spacey, Jennifer Anniston, and Jamie Foxx, with the two new bosses being played by Chris Pine and Christoph Waltz. The trailer doesn’t give too much away, but it certainly shows that the dark comedy and fun of the first film is still clearly intact here.

The trailer does look like a lot of fun, and teases a pretty fun and exciting sequel to the original. It’s good to see so many of the supporting from the first film back for Horrible Bosses 2, because if anything, it was their characters that made the first film so fun and ridiculous. Spacey, Anniston, and Colin Farrell were all absolutely delightful, stealing all the scenes they had, so I hope that continues here, and I really can’t wait to see what Chris Pine and Christoph Waltz bring to the film. I’m really hoping that Waltz goes full blown crazy, because he’s a fantastic actor, and he always plays a great villain.

Horrible Bosses 2, written by John Morris and John Francis Daley & Jonathan Goldstein, and directed by Sean Anders, will be released on November 26, 2014.

Fed up with answering to higher-ups, Nick, Dale and Kurt decide to become their own bosses by launching their own business in “Horrible Bosses 2.” But a slick investor soon pulls the rug out from under them. Outplayed and desperate, and with no legal recourse, the three would-be entrepreneurs hatch a misguided plan to kidnap the investor’s adult son and ransom him to regain control of their company.

'Turbo Fast' Has Five New Episodes on Netflix!

By

Patrick Campbell

-

June 30, 2014

Dreamworks Animation Television has just added five brand new episodes of their show, Turbo Fast, based on the last year’s film Turbo, to Netflix. The show continues the adventures of Turbo, a racing snail, and his full crew of pit snails, including Whiplash, Smooth Move, Skidmark, and Burn, following the events of the film.

The show has a certain vibrant and stylized look that really pops off the screen, and it’s sure to entrance the kids as they watch. Each episode is split into two, eleven minute stories, that follow the crew on a new adventure as we continue to expand on their world. The episodes see Turbo and his gang as they go on a cruise, try to race on the freeway, adopt en endangered frog, go see a psychic moth who tells them Whiplash will be eaten, and accidentally waking an swarm of 1990’s cicadas from a cryogenic sleep.

Each episode packs quite a few laughs for kids, as well as parents, but it’s really the episode Curse of the Cicadas that will leave parents giggling the most. The film is a full on 1990’s retro episode, featuring a cheesy laugh track, call backs to characters like Steve Urkel from Family Matters, a cameo from two Bill and Ted look alikes (my personal favorite call back), and a rather riveting Spanish song that flashes you back to The Macarena, to great effect. It’s a lot of fun trying to catch all the little references they throw out, and it’s one of the more clever episodes of the new batch.

Kids will definitely enjoy spending more time with Turbo and his friends, and it’s easy to see why Dreamworks decided to move forward with a show based around them. There world is fun, and kind of crazy, and it really gives them a lot of room to play and have fun. The show is so vibrant and fun, kids won’t be able to look away, and the racing scenes in particular look very cool. Flash animation has certainly come a long way from what it used to look like, and Dreamworks Animation Television is certainly using it to great effect. It’s definitely a show the kids will enjoy, and parents will be able to digest it easily with them.

The new episodes of Turbo Fast are available right now for streaming on Netflix, and you can check out two new clips below, both coming from the episode, Curse of the Cicadas:

Socalthrills.com

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