With a splash of fireworks, dazzling water-based special effects and a celebrity red carpet (actually a water-inspired blue carpet), the nighttime spectacular “World of Color” made its exciting world premiered Thursday June 10th before an audience filled with celebrities and VIPs at Paradise Bay in Disney California Adventure park.
This new dimension of Disney storytelling, brimming with water, color, music and animation, opens to guests at Disney California Adventure Friday, June 11.
Robert A. Iger, president and chief executive officer, The Walt Disney Company, joined Thomas O. Staggs, chairman of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts, and Mickey Mouse to welcome the special VIP premiere guests.
“‘World of Color’ is a testament to the creativity, passion, innovation and talent of people throughout our organization,” Iger said. “The combination of water, light, fire, and music makes ‘World of Color’ a truly magical event that showcases beloved Disney characters in an entirely new way.”
Added Staggs: “‘World of Color’ transforms the landscape of the Disneyland Resort and marks a major milestone in the expansion of Disney California Adventure. It’s a spectacular show that is distinctly Disney, and unlike any attraction we’ve created before. It will captivate our guests with an end-of-day experience that is exhilarating, emotional and highly memorable. We are excited to debut this great, new experience for our guests and extremely proud of the talented team that drove its creation.”
There has never been a show like “World of Color,” the mega-scale, after-dark celebration of Disney storytelling. “World of Color” brings animation to life with powerful fountains that become stars of the show as they create one of the world’s largest projected water screens. In just under 25 minutes, “World of Color” immerses audiences in technological wonder and the enchanting magic of beloved Disney and Disney•Pixar characters, combining nearly 1,200 versatile fountains, dazzling colors, Disney music and an all-new kaleidoscope of audio and visual effects, taking water-based entertainment to a new level of artistry.
The inspiration for the show came from Walt Disney himself and “World of Color” features characters and images that span the history of Disney and Disney•Pixar moviemaking.
“Our entire team – from every corner of the Walt Disney Company – is thrilled to finally share ‘World of Color’ with our guests,” said Steve Davison, show director and vice president, parades and spectaculars, for Walt Disney Imagineering. “It’s very exciting to take audiences on an emotional journey as they experience laughter, drama and beauty in this breathtaking extravaganza.”
Disney cast members and crews built nearly an acre of superstructure to support the complex production. Walt Disney Imagineering and Creative Entertainment installed the massive infrastructure and revolutionary technology that created the stage for “World of Color.” On this stage, the team directs a unique variety of water effects, larger-than-life projections, lasers, fog, flames, surround sound and stunning images.
Synopsis: Fans of ’90s sitcoms know those words mean Steve Urkel has come to call, bringing lots of geeky, goofy fun with him. A spinoff of Perfect Strangers, Family Matters began as the at-home adventures of elevator operator Harriette Winslow and her multigenerational family. But midway through the first season, Jaleel White made a one-shot appearance as neighborhood nerd Urkel. With oversized glasses, undersized body, screechy voice and indomitable self-confidence, Urkel proved irresistibly funny, turning White into an overnight sensation and a new star of the show. Join Urkel and the Winslows for the 22-episode debut season of the hit series that proclaims love matters, laughing matters, Family Matters!
Reginald VelJohnson once again returns as a cop but now in the form of Carl Winslow, patriarch of a family of three children (at least for this season—by season two, Jamiee Foxworth as daughter Judy has left and is never spoken of again) and a lovely wife, Harriette. Harriette’s sister, Rachel (Telma Hopkins) and her baby have come to live with Carl after the death of her husband and, well, wouldn’t you know it: Carl’s mom, Rosetta LeNoire, has also moved in just for more added comedic relief. Now, from the boxcover, the accompanying booklet, the inside cover and the pictures on the three discs, you would think that this show was actually called “The Jaleel White Show” but the actor is truly only in a handful of the 22 episodes as neighbor Steve Urkel. While he did become the star of the show for the many years that it ran, it seems a bit tacky to put him as the main focus so early in the DVD run.
From one episode to the next the typical problem arises and is solved by some display of familial love. Perhaps Laura is having a hard time getting a date to the dance or maybe Edward wants to quit basketball, no matter the case, someone in the family has an answer. Shows like Family Matters are the very shows that Family Guy parodies in its opening sequence, the simple 90s sitcoms that preach values over the cacophonous blaring of cop procedurals and violence on the evening news. The Winslows are nowhere near the wholesome goodness of the Cleavers, but they’re far more realistic in their take on what family life is really like. Sure, neither you nor I ever perfected a tart and attempted to make a few thousand of them in our kitchen over the weekend, but that’s not the point. The Winslows represent the updated image of what an ideal family would be if you take away the certainty of jobs that never leave and children who never grow up. Times change, people age, and families get stronger and weaker all at the same time. Family Matters understood that and made it its legacy from day one.
There are no special features in this DVD collection which is too bad as I would have loved to have seen an update on the cast and have had interviews with them. However, that is but a small complaint because I sat and watched all three discs over a period of two days and fell in love with the Winslow clan once more.
The show originally aired in 1989, as part of ABC-TV’s Friday night TGIF lineup. It ended in 1998 after the series moved to CBS-TV. The series ran for nine successful season and was nominated for an Emmy Award in 1996. It’s a fun show to watch! Check it out today!
“StarStruck” is geared toward the same audience that goes for “Hannah Montana,” “iCarly,” “Sonny with a Chance” and other sitcoms aimed at tweens and their younger siblings, so I didn’t expect there’d be much here besides formula pap. To an extent, that’s true. But the formula, surprisingly, is the adult romantic comedy.
Sara is obsessed with pop star Christopher Wilde (Sterling Knight, Sonny with a Chance) and hopes to track him down while in California, but Jessica could care less about the stuck-up star and would rather go sightseeing. When the sisters arrive in L.A. Sara takes Jessica on a hunt to find Christopher and a chance meeting with the star sets off a series of comic adventures that feature many of L.A.’s landmark locations. As the sisters sightsee and spend time together, Jessica gets to know the real Christopher and soon their friendship grows. Ultimately Christopher must decide what is more important — being himself or becoming a movie star. Disney Channel stars Brandon Mychal Smith (Sonny With a Chance) and Chelsea Staub (JONAS) also star as Christopher’s loyal best friend and fame- hungry girlfriend, respectively.
Knight plays the same kind of slightly conceited, spoiled rich kid he does on “Sonny with a Chance,” and here manages to make the transition to likable–not an easy feat when you have a face and a past screen history of being the smarmy guy. New to Disney is Campbell, who previously appeared in four episodes of “Prison Break.” She hits the antagonism and resentment button a little too hard and a little too often, but the overall effect is one that the target audience will buy. Parents who watch this with their kids will find it more enjoyable than they expected, and for that we probably have to thank writers Barbara Johns and Annie DeYoung (“Princess Protection Program”), who keep the over-the-top characters and scenes to a minimum. And veteran TV director Michael Grossman (“Dirty Sexy Money,” “Zoey 101,” “Grey’s Anatomy”) keeps things moving, honing in on the developing relationship and leaving everything else out.
Still, for a made-for-TV movie, “StarStruck” is more enjoyable than most, and the adult romantic comedy formula transposed onto a ‘tween template makes it more palatable for parents to watch with their children.
It has a similar charm to other previous Disney original films, fun in terms of storyline with the quirky situations (and of course, some situations are a bit farfetched) but I was entertained. Sterling Knight is definitely showing his versatility as an actor and also as a vocalist. I didn’t know he could sing but he did a solid job and definitely an up-and-coming Disney star who definitely has the potential to becoming a much bigger star.
If anything, the film is a fun teen and children’s film and parents looking for a safe, music-driven Disney film will definitely find “StarStruck – The Extended Edition” to be a solid release with the DVD movie and the music soundtrack included. Granted, for parents wanting to know if it’s “really safe”, well, you don’t want your daughters walking through Hollywood especially alone at an alley late at night (which is how the two main characters meet) but despite that one scene (well, there is one other scene in which the two drive a car into quicksand but I doubt any teenagers will have to worry about that), the film is quite safe and really, there is nothing to worry about in terms of content.
The ‘out of this world’ bonuses featured on the StarStruck: Extended Edition DVD include: • Extended version of the movie – only available on DVD • More Music with eight Rock-Along tracks to sing-along with! • Three Hot Music Videos
2043 is a long time away. Yet in this film it seems like it could be closer each time I watch. With the way our world is today, if we don’t think fast and live peacefully, the Hughes Brothers (From Hell, Dead Presidents), Albert and Allen may have shown us our future.
The Hughes Brothers have a way of telling a story that just when you think you know which way a story is going or how it will end they smack you across the face and smile. With the pen of new film writer Gary Whitta, “The Book of Eli” takes a look at what our actions today can do to affect the future. Along with the look of art director Christopher Burian-Mohr and production design of Gae Buckley using the mind’s eye to give us an apocalyptic look at the world, Don Burgess’ vision of cinematography and the haunting music of Atticus Ross, Leopold Ross and Claudia Sarne, you can put yourself in to the story.
It’s the future and a great war has devastated the world. Eli (Denzel Washington) is on a trek. To deliver a book to a sanctuary that some people feel is just a legend. Why deliver this book? It’s the only one left that has power to heal or control all. Along his way he meets the distraught and well to do low life’s that are trying to survive any way possible. Eli must choose his morals to finish his task of getting the book to its destination. Then he comes across Carnegie (Gary Oldman) who runs a little town where Eli has come. After an altercation Eli has overcome, Carnegie asks him to join him. Eli refuses and escapes knowing Carnegie is just out to rule and not help people. Carnegie sets his men out after Eli knowing now that he has the book that can control. Eli will stop at nothing to complete the one task on his mind and in his heart.
Denzel Washington (The Taking of Pelham 123, American Gangster) plays the proverbial Eli, on a journey of many morals. Denzel’s acting never ceases to astound me when he does such passionate acting. Gary Oldman (A Christmas Carol, The Dark Night) is Carnegie, the man with a plan if he could only find the one book. In his classic style of character portrayal, Gary shows how versatile he is. Mila Kunis (Extract, Max Payne) is Solara, the daughter of Carnegie’s partner, Claudia played by Jennifer Beals (Troubled Waters, The Grudge 2). The Two of them do a good job adding the feminine touch to a predominately male cast. Mila shows her physical talents as well as brings you into how a woman might be in this new environment. Jennifer delves deep to play the mother who has been blind from birth and finds strength to keep living in the world they do. Stepping up his game a bit is Ray Stevenson (Punisher: War Zone, Rome) as Carnegie’s right hand man, Redridge. Muscle is the least of what Ray needs to worry about. He uses his skills to emotionally show someone torn between his thoughts and those who are wielding the power.
“The Book of Eli” is a BluRay/DVD/Digital Copy set. Encased in the menu are some gems to the question, “what if?” First you can have the dialogue in English, French or Spanish, a great way to make this movie appeal to a wider array of open minded individuals. This also includes the usual subtitles in the same 3 languages and scene selection. The bonus features are filled with some wonderful insight into the making as well as the feeling the Hughes Brothers wanted to convey to the audience. The ‘Focus Points’ are the behind the scenes featurettes, everything from the ‘Look of Eli’ to ‘The Motorcycle Brigade’ to ‘Apocalyptic San Francisco’. Which, having lived in the city by the bay is kind of a trip and really eerie. A short film gives you a little back story as to who Carnegie is, called ‘A Lost Tale: Billy’. ‘Behind the Story’ is another take on filling in the what, when, where, why and how of the films story. What would Civilization do if this happened today? The cast and crew, along with experts from all different social, psychological and philosophical studies chime in on their thoughts of how life as we know it would cope as well as take a more in-depth look at the central character, Eli. The deleted scenes are decent but well within the usual reason for getting cut, not really needed. ‘The Book of Eli Soundtrack’ is brother Allen and Atticus Ross talking about the “construction and destruction” of the films aforementioned haunting musical sounds. And last but definitely not least is the ‘WB Maximum Movie Mode’. Here you can have a PiP view of the ‘Focus Points’ while still enjoying the movie. Of course if you have a Warner Bros. BD-Live account you can take the movie online and experience more inside info on the film.
This movie has become one of my all time favorites and here is why, it delves into what we all as individuals fight with on a daily basis, morals and faith. What is right to some may be evil to others and ones faith is like ones opinion, their own. Eli only has his faith to go on at times when he has nothing else. No food, no water, no shelter, just his one goal. Even with his faith in hand though, your morals can be tested. Do you get involved or do you keep on your path when confronted with a situation? Only you can make that choice and live with the result. If we could all do one thing life could be much better, respect. No one person will ever have all your morals, beliefs, faith, or thoughts that you do. Just respect that and live your life and all can be well. Don’t push them or try to change their mind or as has happened way too much in our history all hell breaks loose and death destruction follow. You don’t have to love each other, just respect difference of thought. Be safe and trust each other.
For four decades, The Walt Disney Archives has been home to the most treasured items from Disney’s fabled history, and on Friday, June 25, the Archives will mark its 40th anniversary with a special celebration at the Walt Disney Studios.
During the event, Disney President and CEO Bob Iger, noted film historian Leonard Maltin and other surprise guests will honor Dave Smith, the founder of The Walt Disney Archives and Disney’s chief archivist, for his achievements in preserving the Disney legacy.
The special celebration is open exclusively to members of D23, Disney’s official fan club, and tickets to the once-in-a-lifetime Walt Disney Archives 40th Anniversary Celebration go on sale at 10 a.m. Pacific time today exclusively at http://www.disney.com/D23.
“The Walt Disney Archives is an incredible collection, and that’s due to the dedication and passion Dave has brought to the development of the Archives since Roy O. Disney hired him 40 years ago,” said Steven Clark, head of D23, who also oversees The Walt Disney Archives. “We’re excited to honor Dave and the Archives, and to give our members a close-up look at some rarely seen ‘jewels in the crown’ of Disney history.”
As part of the Archives’ 40th Anniversary celebration, a number of new pieces from recent Disney projects will be officially added to the Archives’ collection; their identities will be revealed during the event.
The Walt Disney Archives 40th Anniversary Celebration will also feature a champagne-and-dessert reception on the Walt Disney Studios lot, and the premiere of Archiving the Archives: Forty Years of Preserving the Disney Magic, an all-new film created for this special anniversary, which will be screened in the Studio Theatre. Additionally, D23 Members who attend will receive a special gift created for the occasion.
Only a limited number of tickets, at $50 per person, will be available to this once-in-a-lifetime event, which pays tribute to the past, present and future of The Walt Disney Archives.
Every day of the year, D23 Membership brings exciting Disney discoveries, special savings, and a host of benefits. Gold-level D23 Memberships are $74.99 and include a one-year subscription to the exquisite Disney twenty-three magazine. Silver-level memberships, which offer all benefits except the magazine subcription, are just $34.99 a year. All discounts and special promotions are available to both Gold- and Silver-level D23 Members.
Disney fans can become members of D23: The Official Community for Disney Fans at www.disney.com/D23, select shops at the Disneyland® and Walt Disney World® Resorts, and at www.DisneyStore.com/D23.
“World of Color” is all about color, music, water, fun and the pleasures of Disney storytelling. To make the experience even more wonderful at Disney California Adventure park, it can be paired with delicious food and beverage selections. Before arriving at the park, guests also will be able to pre-purchase a meal that comes with reserved viewing for “World of Color.”
Guests may choose from several different meals-with-reserved-viewing programs. These provide a magical dining experience along with a choice vantage point from which to enjoy the new “World of Color” after-dark spectacular. Other fun treats include “World of Color” novelty drinks, snacks and accessories
Meal-with-viewing options are limited in availability, at these locations:
“World of Color” Picnic Meals at Golden Vine Winery*
Beginning June 11, guests can go online and order a special boxed picnic meal that includes “World of Color” Reserved Viewing. Picnic meals may be ordered online – www.disneyland.com – or by walk-up purchase, subject to availability, at the Sonoma Terrace, Golden Vine Winery. They are not available for order via the 714/781-DINE line.
Online orders may be placed up to 60 days in advance. Meals may be picked up at Sonoma Terrace from 2 p.m. to up to one hour prior to “World of Color” show time.
Picnic meal options include four selections for adults: The All American (cold honey-stung fried chicken), The Taste of Asia (chilled miso-glazed salmon), The European Antipasto (cured meats, regional cheeses, artichoke heart, sun-dried tomato) and The Mediterranean Vegetarian (marinated grilled vegetables in a whole wheat wrap with roasted garlic hummus). Kids’ options include The Junior All American (chicken), The Lunchbox Classic (peanut butter and jelly) and The Little Squirt’s Box (apple wedges, string cheese).
Beer and wine for adults are available at an additional cost.
As a special bonus for pre-purchasing a meal, the entire party’s online order will be packaged in a souvenir “World of Color” reusable tote.
Guests who opt for a walk-up purchase at the park will be able to buy individual picnic meals that also include admission to the “World of Color” Reserved Viewing area if space is available.
All picnic meals with “World of Color” Reserved Viewing are priced at $14.99 and must be redeemed for the designated reserved show date and time. No refunds, exchanges or other discounts.
The following dining options must be reserved by calling 714/781-DINE. Seatings are at specified times and space is limited.
Wine Country Trattoria Prix Fixe “World of Color” Meals*
Guests can enjoy a three-course, prix fixe dinner in the newly expanded and remodeled Wine Country Trattoria ($39.99 for adults; $18.99 for children ages 3-9). Following dinner, the guests will be admitted to the Preferred Reserved Viewing area for the show. The Italian meal includes choice of starter, entrée and dessert plus a special wine pairing.
Ariel’s Grotto Prix Fixe “World of Color” Meals*
A prix fixe meal with reserved viewing will be available in the elegant surroundings of Ariel’s Grotto (starting at $29.99 for adults; $15.99 for children ages 3-9), on the edge of Paradise Bay. After dinner, guests will be offered admission to the “World of Color” Preferred Reserved Viewing area.
Guests who prefer a treat or snack, perhaps with a souvenir “World of Color” takeaway, may choose from a number of bright and colorful options available at food locations inside Disney California Adventure:
“Spectrum Splash”: Beverages in light-up souvenir glasses with a colorful choice of flavors – strawberry red, blueberry blue, or sour Granny Smith apple green.
“Light-Up Cotton Candy”: White cotton candy with a colorful swirl, on an illuminated wand that lights the cotton candy from inside.
Multi-Colored & Flavored Popcorn: A delicious treat that comes in three flavors – red cherry, blueberry and purple grape – and mixed in with regular kettle corn, all served in a Disney California Adventure see-through “World of Color” souvenir popcorn bucket.
Tropical Mist Cocktail (for adults): It’s a passion fruit and mango liqueur with coconut rum – and a light-up swizzle stick. Available at the Cove Bar and Ariel’s Grotto restaurant.
Even More Fun: Light-Up Balloons – transparent balloons with light-up “World of Color” art inside; Light-Up Bangle Bracelets; and souvenir “World of Color” travel mugs and sipper cups.
Times for the prix fixe dinners and dessert party are subject to change and cancellation without notice. For information on “World of Color,” other Disneyland Resort attractions, or to plan a celebration or vacation at Disneyland Resort, visit www.disneyland.com, call 866/60-DISNEY or contact local travel agents. To explore the expansion plans for Disney California Adventure, visit www.DisneyCaliforniaAdventure.com.
* Reserved Viewing: Each guest entering the reserved viewing area must have reserved viewing area admission. Children (ages 3-9) must be accompanied by an adult. Guests may only enter the viewing area during designated times and no early or late admission will be allowed. Guests in large parties may not be guaranteed admission within the same reserved viewing area. Separate theme park admission is required.
With anticipation and excitement building for the June 11 premiere of the nighttime spectacular “World of Color” in Disney California Adventure park, several options are in place for guests who want to maximize their day of fun at the park and make plans to enjoy the show that night.
To see the show, guests will obtain a special FASTPASS for “World of Color” or they can select from several Dining and Picnic packages that include reserved viewing.
In addition, a new immersive “Summer Nightastic!” party, “Glow Fest,” will bring added evening excitement for Disney California Adventure guests of all ages. “Glow Fest” will be filled with dancing, music and fun, highlighted by special color, sound and light effects, starting in the Sun Plaza at 6 p.m. nightly and continuing in Hollywood Pictures Backlot until park closing.
“World of Color” will be presented twice nightly throughout the Disneyland Resort “Summer Nightastic!” season, June 11 through Aug. 29 (except June 16-17 when Disney California Adventure will be closed for Grad Nights). Guests will stand during the shows – at 9 and 10:15 p.m. – and they may bring strollers into the viewing area.
FASTPASS for “World of Color”
The FASTPASS for “World of Color” will be available each morning at the Grizzly River Run FASTPASS terminals. Guests can insert their park tickets into the terminal to obtain a FASTPASS ticket for the show, and they will be assigned a specific show time. As with other FASTPASS attractions, a limited number of passes are available for “World of Color.” When all of the day’s “World of Color” FASTPASS allotment has been distributed, Grizzly River Run terminals will convert back to distributing the Grizzly River Run FASTPASS tickets.
Guests arriving before park opening to line up for the “World of Color” FASTPASS may park in the Pumba parking lot on Disney Way and, beginning at 7 a.m., gather at the Main Entrance to Disney California Adventure. When Disney California Adventure opens to the public, guests lined up for FASTPASS will be walked into the park and over to the FASTPASS terminals.
In addition to the FASTPASS for “World of Color,” a selection of specially themed dining package options, which include reserved viewing, are available.
“World of Color” Picnic Meals – Available Online or by Walk-up Purchase*
Beginning June 11, opening day for the new show, guests can go online and order a special boxed picnic meal that includes “World of Color” Reserved Viewing. Picnic meals may be ordered online – www.disneyland.com – or by walk-up purchase, subject to availability, at the Sonoma Terrace, Golden Vine Winery. They are not available for order via the (714) 781-DINE line.
Online orders may be placed up to 60 days in advance. The meals may be picked up at the Sonoma Terrace from 2 p.m. to up to one hour prior to “World of Color” show time.
Subject to availability, guests who order Picnic meals online will be assigned to the evening’s first show, and guests who make a walk-up purchase will be assigned to that evening’s second show.
Picnic meal options include four selections for adults: The All American (cold honey-stung fried chicken), The Taste of Asia (chilled miso-glazed salmon), The European Antipasto (cured meats, regional cheeses, artichoke heart, sun-dried tomato) and The Mediterranean Vegetarian (marinated grilled vegetables in a whole wheat wrap with roasted garlic hummus). Kids’ options include The Junior All American (chicken), The Lunchbox Classic (peanut butter and jelly) and The Little Squirt’s Box (apple wedges, string cheese).
All picnic meals with “World of Color” Reserved Viewing are priced at $14.99 and must be redeemed for the designated reserved show date and time. No refunds, exchanges or other discounts.
Prix Fixe “World of Color” Dinner Packages*
Prix fixe meals are available at both Ariel’s Grotto and the newly redesigned Wine Country Trattoria restaurants, and they come with “World of Color” Preferred Reserved Viewing. Guests may order from a varied menu of seafood, meat and vegetarian options at Ariel’s Grotto (starting at $29.99 for adults; $15.99 for children) or a selection of Italian cuisine at Wine Country Trattoria ($39.99 for adults; $18.99 for children). Seatings are at specified times and space is limited. Prix fixe meals must be reserved, at 714/ 781-DINE.
Guests who do not obtain a FASTPASS or reserve dinner packages for “World of Color” may still watch the show from viewing locations on the boardwalk side of Paradise Bay.
“Glow Fest”
Music, dancing and “drumming down the sun” will launch “Glow Fest” every night through Aug. 29, beginning at 6 p.m.in the Sun Plaza in Disney California Adventure. After 8 p.m., this newest addition to the Disneyland Resort “Summer Nightastic!” entertainment lineup will move into Hollywood Pictures Backlot, providing the kind of immersive excitement for adults and children alike that can only be found in a Disney theme park.
* Reserved Viewing:
Each guest entering the reserved viewing area must have reserved viewing area admission. Children (ages 3-9) must be accompanied by an adult. Guests may only enter the viewing area during designated times and no early or late admission will be allowed. Guests in large parties may not be guaranteed admission within the same reserved viewing area. Separate theme park admission is required.
Surfers, tourists, and local Los Angelenos alike were stunned yesterday morning by a rather HUGE mystery: the discovery of 15 foot long footprints in the sand at Santa Monica Pier!
A local fisherman was perhaps the only person who caught a glimpse of the creature responsible. “Everything started shaking,” he said. “Then I saw this thing. Bigger than any whale…eyes dark and menacing, teeth as big as the poles under the pier here.” Police are cautioning people not to panic, and to be careful not to fall into the deep footprints on the beach. Residents and tourists are wondering what kind of monster could be responsible for footprints so massive.
Some people are suggesting that the footprints belong to none other than King Kong, who has been making his way through Los Angeles en route to his new home at Universal Studios Hollywood. Last week, Kong wreaked havoc at Dodgers Stadium by marking up the baseball field with his gigantic footprints, similar to the ones found at Santa Monica Pier. King Kong will be headlining King Kong 360 3-D, the brand new, revolutionarily interactive attraction designed by esteemed director Peter Jackson, and it’s possible that Santa Monica Pier was just his latest stop on his journey to Universal Studios Hollywood.
Do you think King Kong is accountable for this giant mystery at Santa Monica Pier? Take a look at the commotion from the scene here and decide for yourself!
“I think of 6 impossible things before breakfast.” We all think of impossible things throughout the day. Why I have already thought of four just writing the first line. It’s all part of our imagination. I can only imagine how many, may have thought this film to be impossible, even mad to make. This film has worded my thoughts the best way, “all the best people must be” mad. With that said, Tim Burton (Sweeny Todd, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory) and Walt Disney Pictures have taken what many of us have beloved with the creative “madness” of a stellar cast of characters and amazing artisans, created a world full of that impossible imagination and brought it to the screen in “Alice in Wonderland”.
Along the way we see the characters that make up this land of imagination. The ever expressive and crazy Mad Hatter played by Johnny Depp (Pirates of the Caribbean, Public Enemies).Playing Alice who is lost in her thoughts of what to do in each world, Mia Wasikowska (Amilia, Defiance). Red “Off with their head answer to everything” Queen is played by Helena Bonham Carter (Harry Potter series, Sweeny Todd). The elegant of elegance, yet at times unrefined, White Queen is Anne Hathaway (The Devil Wears Prada, The Princess Diaries). Crispin Glover (Charlie’s Angels, Willard) plays Stayne-Knave of Hearts, the companion and commander of the Red Queen’s card army. “Rounding” out the humanly played cast is Matt Lucas (Shaun of the Dead) as the ever rhyming and nonsensical Tweedledee and Tweedledum. This is by no means the end of an eclectic and brilliant supporting cast of voices who bring the rest of Underland’s colorful characters to life. Stephen Fry (Bones, V for Vendetta) as the, always out for himself, Cheshire Cat, Michael Sheen(Frost/Nixon, New Moon) as the watch tapping White Rabbit, Alan Rickman (Harry Potter series, Love Actually) puffing his way through this life as the Blue Caterpillar, Timothy Spall (Harry Potter series, Enchanted) as Bayard the trusty bloodhound, Barbara Windsor (EastEnders UK) as the lovably heroic Dormouse, veteran UK actor Paul Whitehouse (Finding Neverland, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban) as the caffeine deprived or maybe over stimulated March hare, and Sir Christopher Lee (Lord of the Rings series, Star Wars I-III) is the ominous and forbidding Jabberwocky.
In the end, Alice In Wonderland is a lightweight confection that will not make you groan uncontrollably, but you might feel you’ve being scoffing someone else’s indulgence.
The movie played in 3D as well as traditional theaters, and there’s a sense of 3-dimensionality everywhere. Some of the sequences in the fantasy world are deliberately grainy, as when the Mad Hatter recollects how the White Queen was deposed, or when Burton decides to burnish a scene with a golden-brown or blue wash. But for the most part, the AVC/MPEG-4 (48kHz/24 bit) transfer to 50-gig disc appears to be a good one. Colors are bold and bright in some sequences, and Burton-dark in others, depending upon the mood. Black levels also vary according to the sequence. But the level of detail is generally strong, and you never for a minute think that the shifts are anything but deliberate. “Alice in Wonderland” is presented in 1.78:1 widescreen, “enhanced” for 16×9 televisions.
There are around an hour and 50 minutes of bonus features that are organized into two sections: Wonderland Characters and Making Wonderland. Character segments are Finding Alice, The Mad Hatter, The Futterwacken Dance, The Red Queen, Time-Lapse: Sculpting the Red Queen, and The White Queen. The common denominator here is enthusiasm. All of the actors are enthusiastic about the collaboration with Burton and the room that he gave them to interpret their characters. With Depp, for example, it was a historical take. It turns out that the phrase “mad as a hatter” came about because hat-makers or “hatters” were exposed to high levels of mercury in the materials that they used, and it really did turn them a bit mad. The features are all quite short (the longest is six minutes) but the actors are so engaging that they draw you in.
The Making Wonderland section features segments on Scoring Wonderland, Effecting Wonderland, Stunts of Wonderland, Making the Proper Size, Cakes of Wonderland, and Tea Party Props. The Cake Divas who were called upon to produce the pastries clearly were star-struck, and their segment is fun to watch because they’re outsiders working suddenly inside Hollywood. But it’s fascinating to see all the stilt work and wire work that went into this film, and how often Alice had to be seated higher or lower against a green screen than the others.
It begins with a solitary figure on the stage. Rafiki is opening the show with the signature cry from the Circle of Life. There’s a response from the audience. It’s a man costumed as an animal. This back and forth goes on for a moment, and all of a sudden the theatre is swarming with various depictions of wildlife up and down the aisles. Giraffes take the stage, elephants roam the floors, and the theater is transformed into a menagerie of wildlife unlike anything I’ve ever seen in live theater. This is the Lion King, and it’s spectacular.
When the Lion King was released as an animated feature back in 1994, I never dreamed that it would be possible to successfully translate the film to the stage. This was an epic Shakespearean tale (literally inspired by Hamlet) taking place in Africa featuring talking wildlife as its characters. How could this possibly be performed on stage as anything less than cheesy?
Director Julie Taymor came up with the brilliant idea of having the human element visible on stage. Using elaborate costuming and puppetry, the audience always sees the performer along with the character. This allows the actors to provide a genuine performance, and not simply hide behind a costume. Most of the lions are simply portrayed by masks sitting atop the actor’s heads that occasionally lower in front of their faces. Other characters such as Timon and Zazu are depicted through full-on puppetry, but with the performer front and center acting out the role in sync with the puppet.
This element of human and animal hybridization creates a unique experience in which the audience is simultaneously invested in the theatricality of the performances along with the technical artistry of the characters. The story is almost identical to that of the film, with a few added musical numbers, and some slight tweaks here and there. Everything you remember from the film is included to jaw-dropping effect. Even the wildebeest stampede is thrillingly depicted through a clever layering of the set, creating a depth of scene that makes the chase feel dangerously real.
It doesn’t matter how familiar you are with the original film. You will be drawn into this world and find yourself emotionally invested with these characters once again. There is a reason this story is so popular after 16 years. This is an epic battle between good and evil, with the treacherous Scar as one of the great villains of all time. Even having seen the film as much as I have, I still got chills as Scar declared “long live the king” to Mufasa before the pivotal moment of betrayal.
And even though I was familiar with all of these moments from the film, the play is not simple recreation. As mentioned above, there are new musical numbers and setpieces designed specifically for the stage. One of the best additions is Shadowland, a powerful new number performed by Nala as she ruminates on the disastrous state they find themselves after Scar has taken over as king. The song is taken from a musical cue in the original film, and elaborated into a beautiful number that perfectly depicts the emotion of the scene.
There is only one sequence in the entire production that I didn’t feel was necessary. The musical number Chow Down, performed by the hyenas in the elephant graveyard, felt a little bit silly and out of place. I loved the hyenas themselves, both in terms of performances and costuming, and I loved the set for the graveyard, with its geysers of smoke erupting all over the stage, but I could have done without the musical number. It’s not a bad song, but it’s not up to par with the other additions.
One element I wasn’t expecting was the use of dance through the story. There are many types of dance employed throughout the film, often beautiful, sometimes humorous, but always entertaining. During Timon’s rendition of Can You Feel the Love Tonight, there is even aerial dance. It’s a gorgeous sequence, with the performers gracefully manipulating themselves through the air, perfectly encapsulating the emotion of the scene.
Speaking of Timon, Tyler Murree does an amazing job in his depiction of the wisecracking character. He perfectly captures the essence of the character without ever descending into impersonation. Tony Freeman also accomplishes this feat in his depiction of Zazu. I was amazed at how quickly I forgot the animated versions of these characters and was able to completely accept these portrayals.
Currently, the Lion King is the eighth longest-running show on Broadway. It is currently in its 13th year, and has been performed for over 50 million people. Now is your chance to see this phenomenal production. The Lion King will be playing at the Orange County Performing Arts Center now through Sunday, June 13. I’d heard a lot of hype going in, and my expectations were astronomically high. Those expectations were met, and exceeded. And judging by the extreme reaction of the audience, I’d say everyone in the theater agreed with me. The Lion King is an exceptionally unique experience, and one that must be seen to be believed.
Tickets available online at OCPAC.org, or by phone at (714) 556-2787.
When we are born, there is no written rule or doctrine that says we cannot be more or less of who we are. Our destiny is not written in a book but created by the choices we make and the lessons of life that we choose as our morals. Walt Disney was even quoted as saying, “all our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.” And how true it is when Jerry Bruckheimer and Walt Disney Pictures bring together a dynamic group of artists to create a world that many like me, have only experienced through the series of video games, and have now been painted on the big screen in “Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time”.
Bruckheimer is known for bringing out the big guns or swords, when it comes to epic telling of tales. This keeps in line with his style of filmmaking, let alone his panache for choosing over the top stories. I think that is the key to his success. Using the right story, or in this case mythology of stories to create something that I believe will be another good franchise for him and the Walt Disney Company. As with the “Pirates of the Caribbean” trilogy, Bruckheimer pulls in some of the industry’s top talent to bring the creator of the “Prince of Persia” game series, Jordan Mechner’s, characters to life.
Mike Newell (Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Mona Lisa Smile) directs a group of young actors on the up and up as well as a couple extraordinary veteran actors on a grand journey of emotions and some silliness with a splash of present day concerns. Bringing this heroic story written by Mechner himself to the screen is Boaz Yakin (Death in Love, Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights), Doug Miro (The Uninvited, The Great Raid) and Carlo Bernard (The Uninvited, The Great Raid). These three have done a wonderful duty in keeping Mechner’s mythology in place and mixing some references of our current day that could ring true in the land of Persia. Bringing out the emotion of the film through a breathtaking orchestration is Harry Gregson-Williams (X-Men Origins: Wolverine, Déjà vu). His sweeping movements of wanting or passionate race of fervor drive the visuals and spoken word. The action on the screen, the acting brought forth and the pulsating music keep you engaged and wanting more. On to the story…
Venture back when kingdoms ruled the world. Dastan (Jake Gyllenhaal) is a prince of heart not by birth, until he is seen by the King defending a young boy whom he has no connection to. The King see’s this true honor of heart and brings him into his family since he has none, making him a Prince of Persia. Time passes, though raised by the King and his uncle Nizam (Sir Ben Kingsley) along with the Kings two sons Tus (Richard Coyle) and Garsive (Toby Kebbell), Dastan still has the rough edge of a soul. Dastan also reacts to his gut and heart when making a choice. When it is decided to attack a holy city he goes against the plan and makes his own path to the goal where during the ensuing attack stumbles upon a special dagger. Once the city has fallen is it discovered that there is someone who is the guardian of the dagger, Tamina (Gemma Arterton). She knows it’s secret, that whoever holds the dagger has the ability to turn back time or destroy the world. When the King comes to call the brothers together to find out why they took this holy city, treachery is cast on the King who is killed by a gift from Dastan. This pairs our two heroic opposites of Tamina and Dastan, in a race against that which they have the power to control but not plenty of, time, to uncover the mystery of the dagger and who is trying to control it.
This is a great start for what could be a long term partnership with Jake Gyllenhall (Brothers, Brokeback Mountain) and Bruckheimer. Put aside the whole issue of his ethnicity for one simple fact, Persia in the time frame we are playing, 6th century, was ahead of its time and ruled much of the known world. It had people of all color in its arms and made to be one of the people. It was just a fact of life back then. With that said, Jake does an exciting job of bringing one of my favorite gaming characters to life. Even though the game never gave a name to the character he plays the part of Dastan, as you would in the game, fun, fast, with all heart. It even took a call from Bruckheimer to tell him to calm down we have stunt people for that, to which Jake being the consummate performer, wanting to connect the audience with the character. You can’t always do that when you are using a double for those most intense scenes. Tamina played by Gemma Arterton (Quantum of Solace, Pirate Radio) has eyes that can melt anyone, man or woman. I don’t care who you are she just has a look of pure devotion when she catches you with her gaze. This helps to bring zeal to the character that allows her to speak when no words are needed, an emotional performance to be commended. Sir Ben Kingsley (Shutter Island, The Love Guru) brings his classic acting to the screen as the Nizam, the Kings brother who has helped raise Dastan, Tus, and Garsiv. The epitome of royalty, Sir Ben truly gets into his role, very stoic in his performance. The biggest surprise and scene stealer is Alfred Molina (The Da Vinvi Code, Spider-Man 2) as Sheik Amar. The antagonist, yet surprise good hearted, low life, self serving, opportunistic, “what’s in it for me”, Persian version of the ‘Tea Party’ character. He keeps the pace of the film rolling with his constant ragging of the Persians and how they tax people and that he is just trying to keep his ‘image’ intact. It is enchanting to watch him each time he appears on screen.
Bringing this to life with Bruckheimer and Newell: Cinematography of John Seale (Poseidon, Spanglish) using every visual that filming in Morocco had to offer. Bringing to life the far-reaching ambiance of the desert to the detailed sets imagined is production designer Wolf Kroeger (Eragon, Equilibrium). Penny Rose (Pirates of the Caribbean trilogy, King Arthur) pulls out of her carpet bag of tricks the feel and look of 6th century Persia with her amazing element of wardrobe. Setting up the true feel of the game on the screen is George Aguilar (The Departed, Gangs of New York) coordinate some of the intense stunts from the parkour to the swordfights, you sometimes feel your hands on the controller wanting to play the game again. In the interest of the keeping the sites of the game to screen is Tom Wood (Sunshine, Sylvia) and Trevor Wood (The Golden Compass, The Last Legion) handling the visual and special effects respectively. Their combined effort is so stunning, at times I found my eyes wide open and my mouth dropping at the site of the blur between fantasy and reality. My much loved visual being the passing of time and how it envelopes the holder of the dagger.
Are you still worried that the transition of video game to the screen is going to be a flop? Think again. Bruckheimer does not deal in such triviality. He again has brought together an amazing group of top notch creators and actors to drive home that one truly does make their own destiny. I have had the pleasure of living life just as that, making my own destiny. Have I thought of turning back the sands of time and changing what I have done? I would be lying if I said no. However if I did, I would not be the man I am today. Each family member, friend, or person I have met in my life has been part of my life story, part of my destiny. They are all important to me and my story and how I learn to live each next minute. We learn thru life much like Dastan learns that family, whether you are born into or become part of it, is
the strongest bond. Nothing can separate the true bond of a family and anyone who does try to force that bond apart will see the true nature of trust and love that a family has. Choose your own path. Make your own destiny. Follow your dreams. Don’t look back and wonder, ‘what if’, look forward and say I can. Live life to its fullest.
Universal Studios announces the opening of four acres of newly rebuilt New York Street backlot locations. A fixture in Hollywood for decades, New York Street (which consists of 13 city blocks of buildings) has been the setting of countless commercials, television shows and feature films such as The Sting, Blues Brothers, To Kill A Mockingbird, Back To The Future, Frost/Nixon and Bruce Almighty to name a few. The shooting location burned in an accidental fire on June 1, 2008 along with the King Kong theme park attraction and a video vault. The site offers a wealth of creative opportunities for film and television production and an exciting behind-the-scenes look at Hollywood moviemaking for Universal Studios Hollywood theme park guests.
“This is a proud day for Universal Studios. The opening of New York Street shows the company’s commitment to film and television production in Los Angeles and to supporting filmmakers worldwide,” said Ron Meyer, President & COO, Universal Studios.
To show the company’s on-going gratitude, Universal Studios is donating $100,000 over five years to local firefighting departments to buy additional equipment to ensure firefighter safety.
Immediately following the fire, Jim Watters, President & General Manager of NBC Universal Operations Group, and Dave Beanes, Senior Vice-President of NBC Universal Production Services, began assembling a world renowned creative team to design the new street.
Steven Spielberg, who has had a long relationship with Universal, offered his support and creative vision as he has done in the past. Spielberg contacted one of his long time production designers, Rick Carter, Academy Award winner for Avatar, to be a part of the design process. Having designed Back to the Future, Carter had a very personal connection and passion for rebuilding. Headed by art director Beala Neel, this team of award-winning production designers and graphic artists would eventually expand to a staff of twenty-five. Carter and Neel collaborated on the initial design concepts and scope of the rebuild. The construction project became known as The Phoenix Project.
Based on his production experience and comments over the years from filmmakers, Beanes guided the core design team. He decided to keep the original east-west main street and added new locations: a modern New York block with a glass and steel look, Paris Square, London Square and Central Park. The modern New York block will be fully completed on June 30th. The King Kong theme park attraction was moved to expand the location and provide additional production parking. The new King Kong 360-3D attraction created by Peter Jackson will open this summer and will be the world’s largest and most intense 3D experience.
“With the completion of New York Street, we have secured Universal Studios backlot as the premier shooting location in the world,” said Jim Watters.
New Features The overall design concept concentrated on detail work that would cater to modern filmmaking needs. The facade heights were increased 10 to 25 feet for an average total height of 40 to 50 ft. to give the big city downtown feel. The width of the main street was narrowed so the camera could capture both sides of the street in the same shot. The new facades have unobstructed interior shooting spaces that can be built out so productions can shoot interiors and exteriors without returning to a sound stage. Long vista shots through archways are now possible to give added depth to scenes.
For chase sequences, cameras can be positioned on the reinforced facade roofs or mounted on a crane to follow the action. The fire escapes are practical for use with actors and stunt people. The new Courthouse Square has a fire station large enough to hold a full sized fire truck. Next door to the fire station is a modular gas station that can be dismantled and stored according to the needs of production. As an added touch of realism, the manhole covers can emit special effects steam. London Square has chimneys rigged for special effect smoke.
A New Era for The Studio Tour A signature attraction at Universal Studios Hollywood, The Studio Tour has taken over 135 million visitors behind the scenes of the movie and television industry since the first distinctive trams rolled along the Universal backlot in 1964. Recently upgraded with hi-definition TV monitors in each tram car, new video content and high-grade digital audio systems, The Studio Tour’s behind-the-scenes experience of a working studio environment has evolved as Hollywood’s longest-running hit production.
“This year marks the beginning of an exciting new era for our world-famous Studio Tour. With the arrival of the highly anticipated King Kong 360-3D, taking the 3D experience to a powerful new level, and the completion of the iconic New York Street locations, we’re offering a more compelling behind-the-scenes experience than at any time in our history,” said Larry Kurzweil, President & COO, Universal Studios Hollywood.
Safety Features Universal Studios partnered with the LA County Fire and Building & Safety departments to create new guidelines for fire safety in the innovative facades. They have fully automatic sprinkler systems, central fire alarm system, built-in fire separation areas and a separate water supply infrastructure for the hydrants and the sprinkler systems.
Video Vault Universal Studios is two years into a three year plan to recreate the majority of film and video elements lost in the video vault. The elements stored in this vault were used to service NBC Universal’s domestic and international distribution businesses. Due the company’s long standing policy of geographically separating duplicate sets of masters in vault facilities on the West Coast and East Coast, many elements are being systematically replaced
