Rovio Entertainment Ltd. released Angry Birds Star Wars II today for iOS, Android, and Windows Phone 8 devices worldwide, with the biggest lineup ever of new characters in an Angry Birds game.
Angry Birds Star Wars II is the sequel to the #1 hit blockbuster game with new characters, new levels, new powers, and new ways to play. For the first time ever, players can Join the Pork Side and play as both the birds and the pigs. In addition, Hasbro has introduced TELEPODS which combines physical and digital gameplay by allowing players to teleport physical Angry Birds Star Wars toy characters into the mobile and tablet versions of the game.
“Angry Birds Star Wars II combines the rich worlds of both Angry Birds and Star Wars™ in a unique way featuring fan favorite characters from both the dark and light side of the Force,” said Jami Laes, EVP Games, Rovio Entertainment. “We have taken the gameplay to a whole new level, giving our fans the option to play as both the birds and the pigs. We are also excited to introduce the amazing new TELEPODS from Hasbro. For the first time ever our new characters will not only appear in future game updates, but also on store shelves. We’ve heavily invested in the longevity of the franchise and have great updates already lined up for the coming months.”
Angry Birds Star Wars II follows the story of Star Wars Episodes I-III and introduces Angry Birds versions of iconic characters such as young Anakin, Jango Fett and Darth Maul. In addition to the vast amount of content readily available in the game, new characters and powers can be unlocked by placing one of the collectible TELEPODS physical figures onto the phone or tablet camera and scanning it into the game. Over thirty figures are available at launch on September 19th.
Warner Brothers has spent 16 months with over 1000 people to convert this ever popular classic The Wizard of Oz back to big screen, but this time the IMAX screen and in crystal clear 3D. The Wizard of Oz is celebrating its 75th Anniversary and will be beginning a one week engagement at IMAX theaters beginning Friday September 20th.
Fortunately, I was able to attend a screening at the newly remodeled Chinese Theatre in Hollywood. The historic Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, later named Mann’s Chinese Theatre, opened in 1927 and hosted the world premiere of The Wizard of Oz back in 1939. Nearly 75 years later after the films debut, the theater has undergone a giant transformation into LA’s only IMAX theater now known as TCL Chinese Theater.
Many were worried about this transformation, but TCL has done a fabulous job not altering any of the decorative elements from floor to ceiling movie goers have cherished forever. Instead you will find many improvements with new stadium-style seating allowing for the largest IMAX auditorium in capacity with 932 seats. A new 94 feet wide, 46 feet tall screen has been installed meaning parts of the theater had to be excavated to fit such a large screen also allowing for the stadium seating.
The Wizard of Oz in IMAX 3D will mark the debut of the remodeled theater and will also be shown in over 300 IMAX theaters across the nation. However, it couldn’t be more fitting to seeing such a beloved movie in such a historic theater where it all began.
The Wizard of Oz: IMAX Behind the Frame
As the curtains slowly open revealing the floor to ceiling screen, the sides are masked allowing for the original aspect ratio of 1.37:1 filling the screen. IMAX screens are known to be a tad squarer than traditional theaters, but The Wizard of Oz was created before Cinemascope or wide screen was commonly used. The film is actually a little less wide than IMAX.
You’ll find as soon as the film begins you instantly enter a certain time and place. I felt taken back hearing the first few chords of the overture and seeing the classic sepia toned clouds and titles float across the screen. I knew immediately that I was about to see something special; something I thought I would never get to see. Chills ran down my arms and then I was quickly mesmerized by the clarity of the 3D. Soon the words of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” are sung causing me to sink into my chair to soak in the moment. This is a moment that audiences felt nearly 75 years ago, in that same theater no less.
I’m sure we all know the story and probably each scene, but seeing The Wizard of Oz with such precision, so large, with amazing sound along with the incredible 3D conversion creates an all knew experience. Quickly I spotted details I had never noticed before and was in awe of the little things. The close-ups, although can be awkward at moments, allowed for the audience to really get to know the actors like never before. When the film transitions to TECHNICOLOR you’ll start to see blemishes and freckles you probably didn’t see previously. What’s truly fantastic about seeing these silly details is you get a chance to live vicariously through the production as if you are there on set at MGM Studios.
Something to remember though is that The Wizard of Oz is a film from the 30’s. Films production values were much different then and now you will really notice these things that were not as noticeable before. Remember going in that the whole movie is basically shot on a soundstage with juvenile backdrops, some cheap materials and not the greatest special effects. However, my buddy and I still cannot figure out how they created the tornado in the distance. Nonetheless, seeing this re-mastered beautiful conversion of the film we all (most) love with lasting memories, it’s good to be forewarned that it’s like watching a stage production. The painted backdrops are clearer than ever causing me to have more moments wanting to yell at the actors not to run into the wall.
Even some of the close-ups of say the Lion can reveal some of the inconsistent make-up and simplicity in some costumes and sets. I even caught a glimpse of the Wicked Witch’s’ trap door opening and a part rising to allow for either the smoke or flames. Comical, yes; charming, absolutely!
This will be a wonderful way to reintroduce yourself to the magic or for families to possibly introduce their children to this must-see film for the first time. I will say that I wouldn’t recommend seeing The Wizard of Oz unless you consider yourself a decent fan of the film. Many will fall in love with the movie all over again, but I can see many finding parts odd or perhaps even childish. Seeing so much detail may have not been originally attended when they first shot the film, but it’s great to get even more out of this film. There are definitely moments that I felt I entered Oz and got that feeling, I’m not in LA anymore.
On October 1, Warner Bros. Home Entertainment will debut a limited and numbered The Wizard of Oz 75th Anniversary Collector’s Edition, a five-disc set including Blu-ray™, Blu-ray 3D™, DVD and UltraViolet™ versions of the film, plus myriad bonus features, new documentaries and collectible items.
Extra Fun Facts:[unordered_list style=”bullet”]
Warner Bros. estimates that some $25 million will have been spent on a massive marketing, advertising and promotion campaign – a cross divisional effort involving Home Entertainment, Consumer Products and Theatrical.
The film was directed by Victor Fleming (who that same year directed Gone With the Wind, which won the Oscar® for Best picture).
There are two surviving Munchkins: Jerry Maren, 93, the middle Lollipop Guild kid who gives DOROTHY™ a lollipop, and Munchkin town lady Ruth Duccini, 95. Margaret Pellegrini, one of the sleepyheads in the nest, recently passed away on August 7 of this year at the age of 89. Originally, there were 124 actors who played the Munchkins.
To make it look as if the WICKED WITCH™’s head is shrinking as she melts, her hat size was increased.
A double was used for Judy Garland in three scenes. Her name is Bobbie Koshay. In the first, at the opening of the movie, Bobbie balances on a fence and then falls into the pig pen. In the second, Bobbie is seen from the back, opening the door to Munchkin Land before DOROTHY™ emerges in Technicolor. And it’s Bobbie again, from the back, when the WINGED MONKEY™’s pick her up from the haunted forest.
All three stand-ins for the TIN MAN™, SCARECROW™, and COWARDLY LION™ are briefly visible in a couple of shots that show the trio climbing the mountain to get to the Witch’s Castle to rescue DOROTHY™. The costumes for the stand-ins (especially that of the COWARDLY LION™) are the giveaway.
In the interest of enhancing Jack Haley’s appearance as “all-tin, all-the-time,” the make-up specialists affixed an extra rivet to his face, just between his eyes – which is much more visible in the enhanced film print.
Disney Interactive announced the next exciting adventure with Swampy and the gang in the Where’s My Water? 2. In this free-to-play sequel to the massively popular physics-based puzzler, players will explore challenging new levels across three brand new locations including the Sewer, the Soap Factory, and the Beach.
Featuring over 100 levels and challenges to solve, players will experience the same cut and swipe mechanics pioneered in Where’s My Water? while being able to use power-ups such as Vacuum, Dropper and Absorber to “tri-duck” faster. In Where’s My Water? 2 players are also introduced to “challenge modes” for explosive level replays and quick-timed “Duck Rush” levels.
Key Features:
· Over 100+ levels and challenges with a brand new look in the Gator universe featuring Swampy, Allie, Cranky, and Mystery Duck.
· Introducing ‘Challenge Modes’ to replay the levels in explosive new ways
· Players need to dig as fast as they can to get as many duckies as possible in ‘Duck Rush’ levels
· Players can now earn and purchase hints to solve puzzles and power-ups to help earn ducks
· Complete achievements and earn special themed duckies such as gladiator-duckie, astronaut-duckie, hula-duckie, and many more
· Connect through Facebook to beat friends high scores and gift special items
Since launching in September 2011, Where’s My Water? has been #1 in more than 100 countries, spawned two #1 spinoffs, Where’s My Perry? and Where’s My Mickey?, and has been downloaded more than 250 million times. The game received multiple Game of the Year awards, inspired a successful line of retail merchandise, as well as an animated web series.
The Walt Disney Studios invites animation fans to experience a classic film like never before with a new interactive theatrical event for the whole family: “Second Screen Live: The Little Mermaid.”
Beginning September 20, this beloved musical adventure returns to select theaters for a special limited engagement, only this time viewers are encouraged to become a part of the story. This unique engagement marks the debut of Disney Second Screen Live, a new second-screen technology that allows audiences to engage with the film, each other and their fellow audience members.
By simply downloading the free “Second Screen Live: The Little Mermaid App” to an Apple iPad or iPad mini and bringing their Mermaid-loaded devices to participating theaters, fans and families can interact with the film, play games, find hidden treasure, sing along, and compete with the audience for the chance to win great prizes!
This brand new, magical theatrical experience starts on September 20 at the following theaters:
· City Center 15: Cinema de Lux; White Plains, NY
· Farmingdale Multiplex Cinemas; Farmingdale, NY
· Arclight Beach Cities; El Segundo, CA
· Arclight Sherman Oaks; Sherman Oaks, CA
· Muvico Thousand Oaks 14; Thousand Oaks, CA
· AMC Empire 25; New York, NY
· AMC Garden State 16; Paramus, NJ
· AMC Burbank 16; Burbank, CA
· AMC Downtown Disney 12; Anaheim, CA
· AMC Bay Street 16; Emeryville, CA
· AMC Town Center 20; Leawood, KS
· Century Huntington Beach and XD; Huntington Beach, CA
· Cinemark West Plano and XD; West Plano, TX
· Carmike Wynnsong 16; Knoxville, TN
· Carmike 15; Columbus, GA
And a special run is taking place at the El Capitan theater in Los Angeles, CA on Sundays & Thursdays from September 15th through October 13th.
For more information about The Little Mermaid: Second Screen Live! theater screenings, locations and ticket purchases, visit http://movies.disney.com/the-little-mermaid/second-screen-live . Tickets are now available for purchase online or at the box office of participating theaters.
To download the FREE “Second Screen Live: The Little Mermaid App,” visit the iTunes Store. (iPad or iPad mini with iOS 5.0 or higher is required.)
Monsters and robots go head to head when the action-packed spectacle “Pacific Rim” from Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures arrives onto Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack, Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD and Digital HD on October 15 from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment. Directed by Oscar® nominee (Best Writing, Original Screenplay, “Pan’s Labyrinth,” 2006) Guillermo del Toro, “Pacific Rim” follows a team of unlikely fighters who unite for a final attempt to save humanity from terrifying monsters that emerged from the sea.
From Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures, “Pacific Rim” is directed by Guillermo del Toro (“Pan’s Labyrinth”) from a screenplay by Travis Beacham and del Toro. The film stars Charlie Hunnam (TV’s “Sons of Anarchy), Idris Elba (“Thor”), Rinko Kikuchi (“Babel”) and Charlie Day (“Horrible Bosses”), along with Rob Kazinsky, Max Martini, Clifton Collins Jr., Burn Gorman and Rob Perlman.
“Pacific Rim” will be available on Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack for $44.95, on Blu-ray Combo Pack for $35.99 and on 2-disc DVD Special Edition for $28.98. The Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack features the theatrical version of the film in 3D hi-definition, hi-definition and standard definition; the Blu-ray Combo Pack features the theatrical version of the film in hi-definition on Blu-ray; and the DVD features the theatrical version in standard definition. The Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack, Blu-ray Combo Pack and the 2-disc DVD Special Edition include UltraViolet* which allows consumers to download and instantly stream the theatrical version of the film to a wide range of devices including computers and compatible tablets, smartphones, game consoles, Internet-connected TVs and Blu-ray players.
“Pacific Rim” Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack and Blu-ray Combo Pack contain the following special features:
· Audio Commentary by Guillermo del Toro
· The Directors Notebook
· Drift Space
· The Digital Artistry of Pacific Rim
· The Shatterdome
· Focus Points
· Deleted Scenes
· Blooper Reel
“Pacific Rim” 2-Disc Standard Definition DVD Special Edition contains the following special features”
· Audio Commentary by Guillermo del Toro
· Drift Space
· The Digital Artistry of Pacific Rim
· The Shatterdome
· Focus Points
· Deleted Scenes
· Blooper Reel
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment cooks up a full batch on Nov. 26 when BREAKING BAD: THE COMPLETE SERIES comes to Blu-ray™ in its entirety. One of the most explosive series ever to air on television, the 16-disc set is this year’s must-have gift for the holiday season, complete with all 62 episodes and more than 55 hours of special features. Starring three-time Emmy® winner Bryan Cranston (Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series) alongside two-time Emmy® winner Aaron Paul (Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series), the critically acclaimed drama from Sony Pictures Television boasts one of television’s most radical storylines, giving viewers a glimpse into the life of how far a man might go in order to take care of the ones he loves. “Bryan Cranston is still turning in a transformative, unimpeachable performance as Walt, who remains one of the greatest dramatic creations ever to grace our TV screens,” hails USA Today’s Robert Bianco.
Fans who are addicted to the series and itching for another hit can now indulge in more than two-hours of never-before-seen footage in a ground-breaking series documentary exclusively in the box set, which comes packaged in a collectible replica barrel representing part of Walter White’s dark legacy. The all-new documentary chronicles the making of the final season, from filming the first table read to the very last day on set and everything in between, including Bryan Cranston inviting the camera in to his Albuquerque living room for the first reading of the final script with Aaron Paul. The box set also contains all bonus features from previously released seasons (including retail exclusives formerly only available in select stores), a Los Pollos Hermanos apron and a collectible booklet with a letter from Gilligan, as well as a commemorative Breaking Bad challenge coin designed and created by Gilligan exclusively for this set as a token of appreciation to fans for making the Breaking Bad journey.
BREAKING BAD: THE COMPLETE SERIES Barrel Set Special Features Include:
• No Half Measures: Creating the Final Season of Breaking Bad – An all-new, exclusive two hour documentary that chronicles the filming of the final eight episodes.
Additional bonus features include all previously released featurettes and retail exclusives:
• Bad Memories – Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul talk about the show ending and some of their favorite moments.
• Bryan Cranston: Director – Go on set with Bryan Cranston as he directs the first episode of the season entitled “Blood Money.”
• Scene Envy – The Cast tell us which scene they wish they could have been in.
• Shocking Moments – The stars reveal the moments that shocked them most.
• From Walt to Heisenberg – From high school teacher to deadly meth dealer, watch as Walter White quickly transforms into Heisenberg.
• How Will It End? – At the beginning of the season, the cast was asked to give their thoughts on how they thought the show would end.
• Avenging Agent: Dean Norris as Hank Schrader — A look at the character Hank Schrader and the man who played him, Dean Norris.
• Scene Stealer: Betsy Brandt as Marie Schrader – A look at the character Marie Schrader and the woman who plays her, Betsy Brandt.
• A Criminal Attorney: Bob Odenkirk as Saul Goodman –A look at the character Saul Goodman and the man who played him, Bob Odenkirk.
• Jesse’s Journey: Aaron Paul as Jesse Pinkman – A look at the character Jesse Pinkman and the man who played him, Aaron Paul.
• Skyler Breaks Bad: Anna Gunn on Season Four – Actress Anna Gunn and series creator Vince Gilligan explore Skyler’s character evolution through the fourth season.
• Growing Up in the White House: RJ Mitte on Walter, Jr. – RJ Mitte, Anna Gunn, Bryan Cranston and series creator Vince Gilligan discuss the extraordinary dynamics of the White family, and Walter, Jr.’s unique role.
• The Ultimate Chess Match – Members of the cast and crew discuss Walter White and Gus Fring’s extraordinary and complicated battle of wits and their struggle for Jesse’s allegiance.
• Looking Back: A Season Four Retrospective – Season Four’s most surprising and memorable moments.
• Ted’s Wipeout – In Episode 411, “Crawl Space,” Ted Beneke suffers a head injury while trying to escape from Saul’s goons. In this featurette, Christopher Cousins (Ted) explains how this shocking stunt was accomplished.
• The Truck Attack Storyboard Comparison – A side-by-side comparison of the Los Pollos Hermanos truck attack and the brilliant shot-by-shot storyboards that were created for the episode “Bullet Points.”
• Walt and the Challenger Storyboard Comparison – A side-by-side comparison of the sequence where Walt indulges in some crazy stunt driving in Walt Jr.’s Dodge Challenger and the storyboards that were created.
In addition to releasing the complete set on Blu-ray, SPHE will release BREAKING BAD: THE FINAL SEASON on both Blu-ray and DVD with UltraViolet™ on Nov. 26. The final season includes the series’ final eight episodes and is loaded with special features, including all-new featurettes, cast and crew commentaries, deleted scenes and more. Episodes include: Blood Money, Buried, Confessions, Rabid Dog, To’hajiilee, Ozymandias, Granite State and Felina.
BREAKING BAD: THE FINAL SEASON Blu-ray Includes:
• “Blood Money” Table Read – A rare look at the only final season Breaking Bad table read.
The Hub Network, a destination for kids and their families, will host the first “Hub Network’s First Annual Halloween Bash,” to be broadcast on Saturday, October 26, 2013 on the cable channel.
The special will be hosted by Kenan Thompson (“Saturday Night Live”), along with Halloween expert Martha Stewart who will lead a panel of celebrity judges, and includes music performances and a nationwide costume competition where 50 semi-finalists from each state will head to Los Angeles to be a part of the two-hour star-studded event.
One lucky winner will win $25,000 and a walk-on role on the Hub Network’s Daytime Emmy® Award-winning series, “R.L. Stine’s The Haunting Hour: The Series.”
The “Hub Network’s First Annual Halloween Bash” costume competition is open to all ages, including individuals or a maximum of five people per group submission.
Participants are encouraged to create eye-popping, hair-raising and spooky costumes within one of the following six categories:[unordered_list style=”bullet”]
Howl-arious – Shows the lighter side of Halloween with a take on a fun, funny or otherwise hilarious costume.
Spook-tacular – Get ready to frighten America by showcasing the most spine-chilling costume for all the ghosts and ghouls out there.
Mad Genius – Unique, original, innovative and never seen before. A knight in armor fashioned from bottle caps, bat wings made from old umbrellas, or a cardboard-box jetpack, the possibilities are endless. Display a costume unlike any other — show your Mad Genius.
Blast from the Past – Take a stroll down memory lane with a timeless costume. Memories, nostalgia and yesteryear brought to life. Show your take on great figures from before the 20thcentury or a retro 50’s sock hop get up, 60’s flower child or other “period” inspired costumes.
Animal Kingdom – Transform into a living creature from the past or present. Be a roaring lion, a school of jellyfish, a firefly, or a Tyrannosaurus Rex.
Everyday Stuff – We’re looking for the coolest refrigerator/freezer, remote control, mailbox, block of Swiss cheese, telephone and more. Be creative and transform the ordinary into the extra-ordinary.
[/unordered_list]For more information on how to enter, as well as to check out the latest entries, please visit hubworld.com/halloween. The deadline to enter is Sunday, September 29, 2013.
Having previously teamed up to develop several successful games including The Amazing Spider-Man and Iron Man 3 – The Official Game, Gameloft, a leading global publisher of digital games, and Marvel are joining forces once again to bring the official game inspired from the highly anticipated new movie Thor: The Dark World to iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and Android.
In this free-to-play game, Thor must restore order to the Nine Worlds. Perform all of the God of Thunder’s iconic combat moves as you lead Asgardian forces, including the Warriors Three, in over 100 exciting and varied missions against Marauders and Dark Elves. Gameloft’s stunning HD game engine brings to life the beauty of the Thor universe and worlds like Jotunheim and Asgard. Thor: The Dark World will also include a compelling social multiplayer element where fans join forces to earn victory. An original story inspired by the film and cowritten by famed Marvel writer Christopher Yost provides a gripping narrative for the game.
“Thor: The Dark World – The Official Game will allow fans of the franchise to play as one of Marvel’s most iconic Super Heroes in a game of epic scope and beauty.” said Javon Frazier, VP Games Marketing at Marvel. “With this new game, we are further expanding the successful relationship between Marvel and Gameloft.”
Thor: The Dark World –The Official Game will be released in conjunction with the theatrical film from Marvel in November.
Disney’s dastardly villains are ready to unleash some Limited Time Magic at Disney Parks on September 13 — Friday the 13th..
Both Disneyland Park and Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort will stay open until the 13th Hour (1 a.m.). To celebrate the momentous evening, notorious Disney villains like Maleficent, Capt. Hook, Hades will host a wicked dance party, plus lots more spooky fun.
The hub of the villains’ festivities will be staged “dead” center of Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Hades’ Hangout – the hottest club north of the Underworld.
The “Lord of the dead,” Hades, will host spine-tingling fun while his henchmen, dancers, interactive DJ and hot house band keep the nighttime activities on fire. Hades’ 13 devilish Disney brutes will be waiting in Villain Encounters surrounding Hades’ Hangout for greetings and autographs with guests.
To celebrate the imminent arrival of the midnight witching hour “Villainy in the Sky” will set the sky ablaze with spectacular fireworks, and keep the party going until the 13th hour.
It’s all happening for a limited time only from 8 p.m. – 1 a.m. on Friday, September 13, 2013 as part of Limited Time Magic at Disney Parks. Limited Time Magic features 52 weeks of magical experiences — big and small — ranging from park-wide events to special culinary treats to special moments of surprise and delight.
On this spooktacular evening, villains will take over Disneyland as well. Town Square is transformed for the party where guests may see villains like Captain Hook, the Queen of Hearts, Judge Frollo and Lady Tremaine. Cobwebs and vines, Halloween-themed projections, lighting effects and an eerie fog set the tone for the evening. Witches and warlocks will get the dance party started, spinning a mix of upbeat Halloween tunes and Disney-friendly Top 40 hits.
Later in the evening, the twisted celebration spills over to New Orleans Square Train Station with lurking Disney villains ready for the Unleash the Villains Dance Party featuring a lit-up dance floor and raised platforms, spooky décor and lighting effects. A mischievous station master DJ conducts this party — announcing the arrival of a different ghoulish Disney villain at the 13th minute after every hour. Villains will be on the prowl after dusk for photo ops and character greetings, plus a few special surprises.
Party Like a Villain at the Disneyland Resort
Dive into the madness at Disneyland Park as you make way for Main Street, U.S.A. where you can dance the night away at “Party Like a Villain”—a seriously naughty celebration taking place in Town Square. While there, soak up a series of nefarious sights as a seething selection of the most infamous Disney Characters make a series of appearances.
In dire need of a villainous outfit of your own? Cover your skin in the official “Unleash the Villains” tee, available while supplies last at the New Orleans Cart in Disneyland Park, as well as Tower Hotel Gifts in Disney California Adventure Park. And for a tasty tribute to the ominous occasion, give into a tempting trove of treats—including Spooky Kooky Gingerbread Cookies, Pumpkin Beignets and Eerie Green Frozen Lemonade—available at multiple locations around New Orleans Square.*
As the eve takes over the sky, join the river of souls in attendance at the Unleash the Villains Dance Party near the New Orleans Square Railroad Station. Scare up an unforgettable time as a spooky Station Master unleashes the evil evening in tandem with a collection of detestable Disney baddies, including the Evil Queen, Captain Hook, Dr. Facilier, Judge Frollo, Lady Tremaine and the Queen of Hearts.
A Scary Good Time You Won’t Want to Miss
No matter where you celebrate, you’re sure to enjoy a supremely villainous event. Wallow in this bit of Limited Time Magic while you can, unleashed for one night only on September 13, 2013!
*Different varieties of “Unleash the Villains” snacks and treats can be found as a series of locations at New Orleans Square, including:[unordered_list style=”bullet”]
French Market – Fiery Meatloaf Sliders with Cajun House Chips and Grapes, Oreo Mousse Coffin Dessert and Haunted Mansion Holiday Souvenir Hot Mug
Café Orleans – Pumpkin Beignets Served with Vanilla Cream Anglaise
Royal Street Verandah – Pumpkin Fritters with Apple Cider Caramel Custard Dipping Sauce, Pumpkin Latte, Haunted Mansion Holiday Souvenir Hot Mug and Spooky Kooky Gingerbread Cookie
Mint Julep Bar – Pumpkin Latte, Pumpkin Beignets, Haunted Mansion Holiday Souvenir Hot Mug and Spooky Kooky Gingerbread Cookie
Jawbone®, a leader and innovator in smart audio devices and wearable technology, today announced MINI JAMBOXTM, a new addition to its best-selling JAMBOX® family of Bluetooth® speakers. MINI JAMBOX goes everywhere to add remarkable sound to every occasion. It lets you enjoy and share all of your content – movies, TV shows, games, music and calls – out loud from your phone or the cloud at any moment, completing all of your entertainment experiences with great wireless audio.
“At Jawbone, we believe in creating products that make daily experiences better – that’s why we created MINI JAMBOX,” said Travis Bogard, vice president of product management and strategy at Jawbone. “MINI JAMBOX goes with you literally everywhere and lets you take advantage of the spontaneous moments when you want to enjoy or share your entertainment, like streaming from Spotify on a road trip, showing friends a trending Vine clip at a party, or calling your family via Skype while honeymooning in Europe. Since you already watch and listen to most of your content on your phone or tablet, the best speaker is going to be the one that’s always with you. With MINI JAMBOX, you’ll have great-sounding audio wherever you are.”
Sophisticated Unibody Design
MINI JAMBOX is crafted from a single piece of extruded aluminum that makes up both the framework and the face of the speaker, simultaneously producing its audio and its iconic industrial design. Inside the aluminum encasement, a rigid, airtight enclosure creates a maximally efficient acoustic cavity for producing sound. Outside, the precisely sculpted aluminum exterior exudes an innovative blend of high tech and high design.
“Jawbone’s rich history of expertise in design, technology, hardware and software has allowed us to deliver a speaker that’s smaller, lighter and louder than ever before,” said Yves Behar, chief creative officer for Jawbone. “Its unibody aluminum chassis is a complete redesign of our iconic JAMBOX and our most avant-garde speaker design yet, allowing us to pack even more sound and technology into a significantly smaller and more portable package.”
Inside its compact nine-ounce package, an airtight enclosure features two neodymium drivers and a passive bass radiator to produce the highest-quality sound for its size. Using advanced digital signal processing technology, MINI JAMBOX is optimized to play all types of audio content and all genres of music with the fullest sound possible – movies, games, voice, and music from hip hop to classical. A built-in, rechargeable lithium-ion battery delivers up to 10 hours of continuous playback and 75 hours of standby time on a single charge.
Powered by Software
MINI JAMBOX comes with a free Jawbone application for iOS and Android that lets you customize MINI JAMBOX and curate the playlists you love right from your smartphone or mobile device (playlist services currently available on iOS only; coming soon to Android). Simply add your iTunes, Rdio, and Spotify music libraries to the Jawbone app to access all your favorite playlists in one place, and seamlessly switch back and forth between services with the swipe of a finger.
The new Jawbone app also lets you personalize the name of your MINI JAMBOX and quickly demo the 11 voices and 8 language options for the voice prompts on your speaker. Customize the Talk button on MINI JAMBOX via the Jawbone app to initiate a variety of different functions, like activating Siri or automatically dialing your favorite contact. Because MINI JAMBOX is equipped with a high-quality Type-1 compliant speakerphone, you can enjoy and share crystal-clear calls or video conferences out loud from any location.
MINI JAMBOX can also be updated with LiveAudioTM – Jawbone’s immersive, three-dimensional listening experience – directly from Jawbone.com. Turn it on to experience movies and games as if you’re right in the middle of the action. And, as other features and services are released for the updateable SmartSpeakerTM, MINI JAMBOX will become even better over time.
Pricing & Availability
MINI JAMBOX is priced at $179.99 and comes in nine eye-catching designs (Red Dot, Silver Dot, Graphite Facet, Blue Diamond, Aqua Scales, Purple Snowflake, Yellow Dot, Orange Dot, and Green Dot). It is available for pre-order beginning today at Jawbone.com and at major retailers nationwide and online later this month.
The Jawbone app (for iOS and Android) is available today as a free download from the App Store and on Google PlayTM. Streaming and playlist services, currently available on the Jawbone app for iOS, are compatible with all Jawbone speakers and third-party audio devices. Streaming and playlist services on the Jawbone app for Android will be available soon. Customization tools on the Jawbone app are exclusive to MINI JAMBOX.
Disney Interactive and Harmonix Music Systems invite players to experience the magic of “The Haven,” the newest realm to be revealed from the “Disney Fantasia: Music Evolved” video game. In “The Haven,” players will be able to explore a seemingly cold, isolated forest and interact with the mysterious, magical, and musical environment to make it come alive. The new realm will feature tracks from Kimbra, Fun. and Vivaldi, with each song featuring two unique remixes in addition to the original recording.
In “The Haven,” players will enter a dark forested world that they can explore with their motion controlled “Muse.” As they begin to interact with the environment around them, players will bring light to the world and discover fun musical interactions, transforming it in dramatic and exciting ways! From a mysterious cave to a singing yeti, players must fully explore and play the tracks featured in “The Haven” to unlock all of its secrets.
“Disney Fantasia: Music Evolved” will feature over 30 tracks from leading artists and classical composers. The tracks that will appear in “The Haven” include:[unordered_list style=”bullet”]
Antonio Vivaldi – “Four Seasons: Winter: 1st Movement”
Fun. – “Some Nights”
Kimbra – “Settle Down”
[/unordered_list]“Disney Fantasia: Music Evolved” is a breakthrough musical motion video game inspired by Disney’s classic animated film “Fantasia,” and will be available for Xbox One, the all-in-one games and entertainment system from Microsoft and Kinect for Xbox 360 in 2014. Featuring over 30 tracks – including contemporary hits, classic rock, classical music, and more – “Disney Fantasia: Music Evolved” transports players to a breathtaking world where music and magic combine to transform extraordinary interactive landscapes in entirely new and creative ways.
“Disney Fantasia: Music Evolved” will be available in 2014 and is currently not rated by the ESRB.
Getaway is wrecking in to theaters, but don’t write it off quite yet! While the trailer makes the film look like a jumble mess of your average forgettable summer action flick, director COURTNEY SOLOMON actually has created a pretty unique yet classic blood-pumping action thriller, yet this very thing may be its downfall. Does this mean you should race out to see this movie? Well, you be the judge.
Academy Award nominee ETHAN HAWKE (“Training Day”) aka washed up former star and musical sensation SELENA GOMEZ aka former teen Disney star breaking from the mold team together as basically the only two people in this film. Yes, JON VOIGHT (“National Treasure” films) is the protagonist in the film, but is really just the man on the other side of the phone calling all the shots. Really, it was an excellent voice acting job, and we do get to see his lips moving often, but don’t see this just for him.
In a series of what is believed to be unfortunate events, SELENA’S character who is known only as “the Kid” finds herself trapped in a Shelby GT500 Super Snake with former race car driver Brent Magna played by HAWKE. Due to a couple of unforeseen events that are quickly revealed, GOMEZ is found holding up HAWKE, but is forced into the car by the unseen voice coming from the stereo. The true adventure of this bizarre duo begins here.
The plot of Getaway is revealed within seriously only a couple of minutes of this non-stop action 85 minute flick. Brent Magna is found stealing this Shelby GT500 Super Snake thanks only to VOIGHT’S voice telling him he has to if he wants to see his wife again. In a series of back and forth clips of Brent’s wife being kidnapped and Brent stealing this car and speeding through the chaotic streets of Europe, it is quickly evident of the story we will be seeing.
This is a “chase” film with only one goal, receive the prize at the other end. GOMEZ and HAWKE are forced to work tirelessly together to complete the missions VOIGHT’S faceless character puts them through trusting Brent’s former racing skills will help him achieve what he wants and ultimately freeing Brent’s wife.
The trailer really explains all there is needed to know besides just maybe a couple of small twists. These are nothing that really make this plot any more special or creative. Getaway really seems to have been made for an excuse to have a film of nonstop car chasing, adrenaline pumping, mindless thrill-ride. Yup, they succeeded, but in doing so it may have cost them from what makes any film good.
The challenge of any action packed action blockbuster is giving the audience a reason to get emotionally invested and honestly care for the characters livelihood. Well, yes they are in a mission to get his beautiful wife back, however after countless car chasing scenes where the heroes just barely get away, unhurt, and the car hardly touched in this case, it becomes dull. A movie of all edge-of-your-seat action actually causes the audience to become desensitized to the drama on the screen.
After 45 minutes, there’s no longer any type of shake up from a status quo where everything is normal. In many films, books, and stories you have ups and downs and a momentum that leads to a climax. In films like Getaway, the climax starts from the inciting incident and continues till the end. While entertaining and suspenseful at moments, this type of storytelling leaves the viewer frankly just bored. The premise and all the bits of information were explained within minutes with only little keys given later to try to understand a motif.
I would have enjoyed seeing Brent and his wife in a loving scene before all this takes place to give me some type of connection to the two as well as perhaps some middle areas where we slow down to see some of Brent’s history that has lead up to this moment. Instead we get a short clip of him crashing his car in a professional race, which apparently is the reason that made him a nobody. After a quick explanation to GOMEZ we understand what happened, but then are quickly back in a chase. With a collective sigh, here we go again.
Luckily, GOMEZ and HAWKE isn’t as annoying as one may expect, except for the first few minutes of them together where GOMEZ is just a little know-it-all brat that won’t shut up. Her character however is somehow a brilliant hacker because simply explained… all teenage girls can hack into anything including the government because they have grown up with technology. You can end my suspension of disbelief there.
I was happy to see GOMEZ a little more natural though. It didn’t appear over the top that we may have come to expect from her. The two end up working well together. We even see some vulnerability from GOMEZ’S character, but it doesn’t last long.
There really isn’t much to discuss about the bulk of the movie except that the whole movie is taken place in a car. Not my choice of cars, but that’s another topic. The best part of this though is that almost nothing in the film was green screened or created with CGI. All the car chasing scenes are rather raw and believable, to a certain extent, creating a gritty more natural look to the film. There were definitely A LOT of use from GoPros. My favorite scene is a long shot that came out of nowhere of the view from the front bumper of his car as HAWKE is chasing an SUV through long stretches of European roads. It’s actually quite remarkable and very well organized. The logistics alone seem mind-numbing. This one moment I felt like I was a part of the action and was actually in this dangerous environment as if he crashed then I was doomed as well.
Getaway is a car version of Phone Booth with COLIN FARRELL except without as good of a rewarding end. In fact, if writers SEAN FINEGAN and GREGG MAXWELL PARKER went more this route by showing how HAWKE’s character has gone off the deep end and we actually saw a transformation, then maybe, just maybe, the film would have felt more rewarding and complete.
Instead Getaway remains a simple and raw action thriller without a lot of substance. It’s a fantastic film to see if you want just a ride and nothing else. There are a few great action sequences you may love if you don’t get too tired of them beforehand. Be aware of a lot of screeching and a plethora of metal against metal scraping. It will definitely keep your mind off the rest of the world for an hour and a half and it was refreshing to see all real action. Getaway will definitely get your adrenaline pumping, but for how long is the question.
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