Enter The World of Harry Potter!

October 6, 2009

Universal Orlando Resort, together with Warner Bros. Consumer Products, today revealed first-ever details about the incredible scope of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Universal also announced that the highly anticipated land will open in spring 2010.

Inspired by J.K. Rowling’s compelling stories and characters – and faithful to the visual landscapes of the films – The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal’s Islands of Adventure will provide visitors with a one-of-a-kind experience complete with multiple attractions, shops and a signature eating establishment. This completely immersive environment will transcend generations and bring the wonder and magic of the amazingly detailed Harry Potter books and films to life.

The expectations of Harry Potter fans are high and Universal Orlando Resort is collaborating closely with J.K. Rowling, Warner Bros. Consumer Products and the Warner Bros. Harry Potter brand team to ensure that The Wizarding World of Harry Potter will be an experience of a lifetime. The Harry Potter films’ production designer, Stuart Craig and art director, Alan Gilmore, in cooperation with a corps of artisans from Universal Creative are working daily to construct the most authentic Harry Potter experience possible. Guests will be able to sip Butterbeer in Three Broomsticks, buy Extendable Ears at Zonko’s and experience a state-of-the-art attraction that brings the stories of Harry Potter to life in a way never before imagined.

(Harry Potter Stars talk about The Wizarding World of Harry Potter)

“All of the action and adventures of Harry Potter’s world will come to life here at Universal Orlando Resort,” said Tom Williams, chairman and CEO, Universal Parks and Resorts. “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter will be unlike any other experience on earth and we can’t wait to see the looks on our guests’ faces as they enter this rich environment.”

“Harry Potter continues to spark the imaginations of fans of all ages and we really have seen the anticipation continue to build for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter,” added Brad Globe, President, Warner Bros. Consumer Products. “We are excited to share with fans a first glimpse into the truly enchanted world we are bringing to life with all of our partners at Universal Orlando Resort.”

CLICK HERE FOR AN EXCLUSIVE IMAGE GALLERY!

From the front archway of Hogsmeade to the immensity of Hogwarts castle, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter will feature the locations listed below:

• At the entrance of Hogsmeade, billowing steam and an iconic whistle signal the arrival of the Hogwarts Express into Hogsmeade station
• Across the way is Zonko’s, a joke shop with a collection of tricks and jokes, including Extendable Ears, Boxing Telescopes and Sneakoscopes
• Honeydukes is next door and full of treats like Chocolate Frogs and Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans
• The Three Broomsticks and adjacent Hog’s Head pub will feature traditional British fare and drinks including Butterbeer and pumpkin juice
• Across from the Three Broomsticks is The Owlery, where owls roost and await their next delivery
• The Owl Post sends letters with a certified Hogsmeade postmark and sells official stamps from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
• Ollivanders wand shop is an incredible interactive experience where the wand chooses the wizard
• Completing Hogsmeade is Dervish and Banges, the magical instruments and equipment shop featuring Quidditch equipment, Triwizard apparel, Spectrespecs and Remembralls
• The first attraction, Dragon Challenge, features a twin high-speed roller coaster with many iconic elements from the Triwizard Tournament
• Next is Flight of the Hippogriff, a family coaster simulating a Hippogriff training flight over the grounds of Hogwarts castle
• Located in Hogwarts castle, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey is a thrilling new state-of-the-art attraction that uses entirely new technology to bring the magic, characters and stories of Harry Potter to life in ways never before experiencedo Before exiting back into Hogsmeade, Filch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods is full of Ministry of Magic and magical creatures merchandise, Omnioculars, and even remote control Golden Snitches

(Fly Through The Wizarding World of Harry Potter)

“This Universal Creative and Warner Bros. team shares an incredible passion and commitment to making this destination an exceptionally immersive environment that will touch the lives of our guests,” said Mark Woodbury, President, Universal Creative.

“The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is yet another way that fans will be able to experience and enjoy Harry Potter for many years to come,” said Diane Nelson, President of DC Entertainment, who is also responsible for overseeing the Harry Potter brand team worldwide. “The power of this brand speaks for itself, as the enthusiasm of our dedicated fans around the world continues to grow even stronger as we move into the future.”

The Disney Gallery Reopens in a New Location

SoCalThrills Staff

October 3, 2009

The first art exhibit, “Enchanting the Classics,” will focus on how the artists of Walt Disney Imagineering have kept beloved Disneyland attractions, such as Jungle Cruise, Submarine Voyage and Pirates of the Caribbean, fresh and exciting over the years with enhancements and surprises.

NEW GALLERY LOCATION: The relocated Disney Gallery is now in the former Bank of Main Street. The design maintains elements of the bank – select pieces will be displayed inside the vault – while building on the charming turn-of-the-century atmosphere of Main Street, U.S.A. Kim Irvine, director of Concept & Show Design for Walt Disney Imagineering, Anaheim, notes that the gallery now features an elegant Victorian interior with chandeliers, fancy moldings and hand-woven carpets.

THREE ROOMS: In addition to the bank vault with its special highlighted artwork, The Disney Gallery on Main Street, U.S.A. will feature three large display rooms.

· One room will feature historic Walt Disney Imagineering conceptual art created during the development and enhancement of attractions.

· One room will showcase Disney-inspired art by current and former Disney artists and Imagineers.

· One room will feature prints (including on-the-spot Print on Demand), sculpture, books and other items for sale to guests and collectors.

“It’s great to be able to exhibit the work of our Imagineers and new artists,” Irvine said. “Many of them are still working in traditional media – water color, oils, sculpture – and I think it’s wonderful to showcase all of their talents.”

‘ENCHANTING THE CLASSICS’: The inaugural show in The Disney Gallery will focus on the enhancements that keep classic Disneyland attractions fresh and surprising. Irvine explains: “When we temporarily close one of our popular attractions for refurbishment, our guests expect that there will be some ‘new magic’ added. In the past five years, Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion, Jungle Cruise, the Enchanted Tiki Room and “it’s a small world” have all undergone planned enhancements, which our guests have really enjoyed.”

UPCOMING EVENTS IN THE DISNEY GALLERY: Two special events for guests and collectors are planned for The Disney Gallery in October. Both are free with park admission.

· Disney artists and Imagineers whose commissioned work appears in “Enchanting the Classics” will appear in a Disney Gallery signing event on Saturday, Oct. 10.

· An event showcasing art that celebrates Haunted Mansion Holiday and “Tim Burton’s Nightmare Before Christmas” will take place in The Disney Gallery on Saturday, Oct. 17.

‘ART HISTORY’ OF THE DISNEY GALLERY:

· The Disney Gallery originally opened on July 11, 1987, in the rooms above the entrance to Pirates of the Caribbean.

· The rooms were originally designed as a private apartment for Walt Disney, who passed away before the work was completed.

· The first show in The Disney Gallery in 1987 was “The Art of Disneyland.” It featured many one-of-a-kind pieces created in planning Disneyland attractions. Highlights included Herb Ryman’s iconic paintings (created before construction began) of the proposed Sleeping Beauty Castle and a bird’s-eye view of the lands of Disneyland, along with Mary Blair’s concept art for “it’s a small world,” Sam McKim’s ghostly Haunted Mansion exterior and Eyvind Earle’s elegant paintings of scenes for the Sleeping Beauty Castle walkthrough.

· In the ensuing years, exhibits in The Disney Gallery included concept art for proposed attractions that were never built (“The Disneyland That Never Was”); art, props and costumes from the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction and films; and an offbeat display of illustrations originally created for Little Golden Book versions of classic Disney tales.

· The Disney Gallery in New Orleans Square closed on Aug. 7, 2007, to make way for the Disneyland Dream Suite, a realization of Walt Disney’s original concept of a private apartment in New Orleans Square.

· On Main Street, U.S.A. The Disney Gallery will have a new neighbor: President Lincoln. When the refreshed “Disneyland Story featuring Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln” opens in December, guests will be able to enter The Disney Gallery from the lobby of the Main Street Opera House, and vice versa.

Movie Review: "Zombieland"

Joel Covey

October 1, 2009

Screenwriters and executive producers Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick have created one wildly funny gore filled ‘zombiefied’ comedy horror! Zombieland seemed to have so much potential with a great cast and awesome action, but I was afraid that the huge hype for this film would quickly crash a few minutes into the movie. I am happy to state that Zombieland does live up to the hype and then some. Dare I say that the movie should survive ‘Criticland’?

Directed by first time director Ruben Fleischer, Zombieland is not just a farce zombie movie, but a movie with true comedy and young romance with a touch of heart. In order to achieve this, the filmmakers had to keep the world realistic while being able to strike classic zombie horror film moments without the audience double thinking the possibility of it all. The zombie’s are outlandish and gross, but at all times it feels as they could really exist. These aren’t your undead overly powerful zombies with super-human powers. Instead, these flesh eating characters derive from a viral epidemic that causes humans to just want to eat other humans. Ok ok, they don’t feel much pain, but for the most part they are very believable real-life zombies.

Columbus, JESSE EISENBERG (Advetureland), is our narrator for the film and lead character. He is a young survivor of this post apocalyptic Earth now called ‘Zombieland’. He is out to stay alive and he has his own list of rules in order to do so. These rules are quite funny and the filmmakers do a fantastic job bringing them up throughout the movie as a small running joke. They even bring up the rules in text form in several scenes making them appear apart of the scenery. This is difficult to describe, but was a rather well done gimmick. After learning of his rules, ie. “Always check the backseat”, and a few gruesome zombie kills to bring the tone of the film, Columbus comes face-to-face with another human in which he decides to hitchhike with toward home. Tallahassee would be his name, WOODY HARRELSON, and is quite the opposite from our scared little wussy of a main character, Columbus.

Tallahassee is the fearless zombie-killing loving badass whose only weakness is to find Twinkies. In fact, that seems to be his sole purpose left on Earth. Columbus joins him on his journey as he is determined to get back to his hometown of none other than Columbus to see if his family is still alive. Along the way, and an attempt to find Twinkies, the duo comes across two very independent young girls with plans of their own. What the four must decide is whether joining forces to survive these man eating creatures is worth a chance of losing each other.

Zombieland is a place where it’s not smart to become close to one another as it may come time to kill the other if they become bit. The characters don’t think it’s worth getting caught up with one another and would rather survive on their own. However, Columbus quickly becomes smitten over the cute EMMA STONE known as Wichita. She will do whatever it takes for her and her sister Little Rock, ABIGAIL BRESLIN (Little Miss Sunshine), to survive even if that may mean ditching the rest of the party.

Everyone is on search for their own happiness, but of course is challenged by many obstacles on their journey. There are plenty of zombie kills and chases to be had on their road trip along with insane circumstances that one may find in Harold & Kumar go to White Castle or Superbad on their way to a party. Sure it’s incredibly silly. It’s justified though by the tone of the film. Every ridiculous antic seems to fit within the world they live. It is the situations and how they handle them that makes this such and funny film.

Harrelson’s character is interested in killing zombie’s every way possible and finds much joy in it. This adds to hilarity while including “zombie kill of the week” and other great one-liners completing a very colorful character. Harrelson’s and Eisenberg’s characters go deep, but unfortunately I feel we did not get to know enough of the other two. The audience is meant to care a great deal towards these two girls in the latter part of the film except I never became attached. Then again, the movie is more about the two guys and their transformation, (not into zombies), rather than the girls.

There is the romance story of course. Obviously this involves Columbus and Wichita, which is the love story between two that weren’t meant to be but work because of circumstance. Everything seemingly worked too well with each other and I’m still trying to figure out why it did. All I know is that I was continuously laughing aloud and still ended up jumping back in my seat several times.

I don’t want to go here, but Zombieland does have the same humor and tone as Shaun of the Dead except with more gruesome kills and better action. The effects were even quite good and convincing… for the most part at least.

The cast was a great choice too with completely different types of characters coming together against their difference. However, you better like every character because you are stuck with them, and only them, for the whole film. There is one amazing cameo as well that I will not lead to anything else other than saying it’s the funniest part of the film.

The gore is in the style of Quentin Tarantino and hides nothing. The kills are absolutely gross and yet comical; at least to the decensortized audience of today. The story is simple, but remains satisfying in the end. Zombieland is short and to the point, and yet I never felt jipped. This isn’t a film about the origins of the zombies or the solution to the infestation but rather the idea of gaining friendships over aloneness.

There really isn’t much else I can say other then Zombieland is downright fun and entertaining. It’s violent and gory with a little sense of horror while remaining absolutely hysterical without alienating the audience from a quality movie.

Movie Review: "The Invention of Lying"

SoCalThrills Staff

October 1, 2009

There are so many wonderful things about this film. It is a laugh out loud comedy with sharp witty humor that at times takes you to the edge. The film is written and directed by the brilliant Ricky Gervais (the original creator of The Office) and co-written by Matthew Robinson.

The movie is about a screenwriting yuppie named Mark (Ricky Gervais) who lives in a world where nobody has ever lied. Everyone in this world is pretty blunt and at times cruel because they have to tell the truth. In this alternate reality, the characters don’t know what truth means because truth and lies don’t exist. Mark meets a young beautiful woman named Anna (Jennifer Garner) during a blind date that is hilariously outlandish. The date falls apart because Anna believes nothing will happen between them because of his fat snub nose and his awful genetic compatibility. Marks luck worsens when he is fired from his job because of his awful scripts about boring 1300s era. His financial problems become capricious. So, Mark embarks on a new way to change his ominous life around. He invents lying. He uses lying as a tool to gain success in fortune, career, and love.

The characters and the world are very well developed. The film will keep you laughing and entertained. The beauty of every character that is incredibly interesting is their naïve perspective on life with lies. The film does a wonderful job on creating a detailed world around accurate honesty.

The theme of the film mostly focuses on religion. The interesting thing about the film is that morals do not exist and it teaches us that lying can be a good thing to a certain extent. It can also hurt us to a certain extent. You can also say the same about truth. So, without religion, we would not have morals or guidelines of what truth means. These are what the characters in the film experienced. The interesting thing about the film is that the characters never used the word truth. So, is the film expressing that religion is not truthful? That religion is just a lie? Well, you’ll have to see the film to decide for yourself. Either way, you will have a good laugh and that’s the truth!

Blu-Ray Review: Yellowstone: Battle for Life

Shaun Beckerman

September 29, 2009

Over the years, I have seen some truly amazing nature documentaries showcasing the beauty of this world. There are filmmakers out there who are showing us what lies in the deepest depths of the ocean, and the creatures found in the most remote, uninhabitable jungles. They make us witness to those places we could otherwise never go. And yet Yellowstone: Battle for Life is able to take its place among the best of these documentaries by showing us the wonders of Yellowstone, a national park completely accessible to everyone.

In March of 2009, the BBC released this three episode series which shows us in extraordinarily vivid detail the cycle of seasons that takes place in Yellowstone. The first episode is Winter, followed by Summer, and then Autumn. By the end of this last episode, everything comes full circle as winter approaches yet again, turning the clock back and “covering up all traces of the human world.” All three episodes are beautifully shot and a testament to what Blu-Ray is really capable of. Every image pops with detail and transports the viewer into this magnificent world.

Yellowstone is essentially a giant bowl, covering over 2 million acres, and home to more than 2/3 of the world’s geysers. Fully exploring the natural phenomenon that is this “volcanic wonderland” while also exploring the vast array of wildlife within would seem a daunting task. I’ll admit, I wasn’t too excited as I put the disc in for the first time, but I found myself completely wrapped up in the sheer amount of material the filmmakers were able to capture.

As the seasons progress, we follow several different groups of wildlife in their efforts to survive. The episode detailing the winter focuses primarily on the wolves, while the segment on the summer really captures what it is to be a bear in this environment. The final chapter focuses on Yellowstone itself, and the natural wonders found within.

All three episodes are narrated by Peter Firth, a well-known British actor. He does a fantastic job of presenting the material in a way that doesn’t overwhelm but gives a level of importance to what we are seeing. Accompanying his fantastic narration is an equally impressive score from British composer Edmund Butt. His sweeping orchestrations enhance every moment onscreen.

My one complaint with this release is with the extras. There are only three segments, and none of them give any insight into the technical wizardry that helped the filmmakers capture these images. Instead, two of the segments focus on individuals and the third focuses on a group. The first feature is a look at a man named Jeff Henry (aka The Snowman). As his nickname implies, he is obsessed with the winter, and he helped them get some of the amazing footage for that episode. I can appreciate that they want to show us the people who assisted them, but there is nothing informative or interesting in this segment. The second feature shows us the “Geyser Gazers,” a large group of people who spend their lives trying to find the patterns in geyser eruptions. Finally, the last segment focuses on Mike Kasic (aka The Fishman). He is the sound recordist for this documentary, but the entire feature is about his obsession with swimming in the rivers of Yellowstone. These all seem like wasted opportunities, taking space that could have been utilized with insights into the production process.

Getting the amazing footage they were able to capture can’t be easy. Obviously, a lot of work went into putting this together, and I would have loved to see some of that side of the shoot. But despite the lack of decent extras, this is a great series and absolutely worth owning. I never realized how extraordinary Yellowstone really is, and I’m sure that I will be revisiting this series many more times to come.

Give a Day of Volunteer Service, Get a Day of Disney Theme Park Fun

SoCalThrills Staff

September 29, 2009

Disney Parks today announced a new program that celebrates the spirit of volunteer service with a simple proposition: “Give a Day, Get a Disney Day.”

Disney hopes to inspire families to volunteer in their communities during 2010 through this first-of-its-kind program. One million people who perform volunteer service for a participating organization will receive a free one-day admission ticket to a Walt Disney World Resort or Disneyland Resort theme park.

While the “Give a Day, Get a Disney Day” program kicks off Jan. 1, right now guests can learn more about the program and how to get their free one-day admission to a Walt Disney World or Disneyland theme park by visiting www.DisneyParks.com (for the United States and Puerto Rico) or www.DisneyParks.ca (for Canada).

In the past year, guests have been celebrating all sorts of special moments in their lives at Disney parks – from birthdays and anniversaries to reunions and graduations – as part of the “What Will You Celebrate?” campaign.

“In 2010, we want to recognize and add one more reason for celebration: the contributions people make to their communities every day,” said Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “We want to inspire 1 million volunteers – people who will invest time and energy to make their own communities and neighborhoods a better place.”

To enable people to sign up for an eligible volunteer project, Disney is working with HandsOn Network, the nation’s largest volunteer network. Part of Points of Light Institute, HandsOn Network has 250 on-the-ground volunteer action centers across the country and connects volunteers to more than 70,000 nonprofit agencies that need their help.

“Wherever we live, our communities need our hands-on help to thrive,” said Michelle Nunn, CEO of Points of Light Institute. “We are thrilled at this unprecedented effort by Disney Parks to help mobilize 1 million volunteers into action. ‘Give a Day, Get a Disney Day’ has the potential to reach so many families and instill the volunteer spirit in a new generation.”

Bob Iger, president and CEO of The Walt Disney Company, said, “‘Give a Day, Get a Disney Day’ fits perfectly with our long history of supporting and participating in volunteer efforts. It’s a great way to honor guests who are making a positive contribution to their communities.”

Starting Jan. 1, 2010, guests can go to www.DisneyParks.com for the United States and Puerto Rico or www.DisneyParks.ca for Canada to search for volunteer opportunities available in those areas through HandsOn Network and sign up for a day of volunteer service. Many of the opportunities will be for projects that entire families can participate in together.

To raise awareness for grass-roots community volunteerism and the “Give a Day, Get a Disney Day” program, Disney VoluntEARS joined local volunteers in cities across the United States and Canada today. Work projects involving 1,000 volunteers were coordinated by HandsOn Network in Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles and Miami, and across Canada – in Toronto, Montreal, Halifax and Vancouver.

Joining the Sept. 29 effort were scores of volunteers from Southwest Airlines, which will also provide transportation for a 20-city tour that will take the Disney Parks volunteer message to major cities across the United States this fall and winter.

“Southwest Airlines strives to make a positive difference in the communities we serve, from protecting the environment to supporting a local cause,” said Linda Rutherford, vice president of Communications and Strategic Outreach, Southwest Airlines. “Southwest employees give back both locally and nationally through volunteerism, with individual and personal efforts, serving together as teams or through companywide efforts. The opportunity with Disney unites two companies that are devoted to the spirit of volunteerism.”

Give a Day, Get a Disney Day details:

Must pre-register and sign up for eligible volunteer opportunity at disneyparks.com. Ticket quantities for this program are limited. Must be at least age 6 to participate. Other terms and conditions apply. For details, see disneyparks.com in the United States and Puerto Rico. In Canada, see disneyparks.ca.

Mickey, Pooh, and Christmas Too!

SoCalThrills Staff

September 29, 2009

Celebrate the holidays with Mickey’s Christmas Carol, a beloved classic short film that is now part of the Disney Animation Collection! Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck and many more of your favorite characters join the cast in this delightfully charming adaptation of a classic holiday tale. Ebeneezer Scrooge (Scrooge McDuck) is far too greedy to understand that Christmas is the time for kindness and generosity. So, with the guidance of some wise ghosts (with Goofy and Jiminy Cricket), and the examples set by his clerk Bob Cratchit (Mickey Mouse) and nephew Fred (Donald Duck), Scrooge learns how to embrace the true spirit of the season. Each volume in the Disney Animation Collection series is packed with classic Disney short films that will bring laughter and merriment into your family’s home.

This is, and always will be, a classic to be viewed by generations to come. It is also a must see for any animation enthusiast.

To celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the cherished Disney holiday classic, Winnie the Pooh: Seasons of Giving, Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment presents a special edition available on DVD, September 29, 2009. The full-length adventure stars Pooh and other beloved characters as they celebrate friendship, family and the true meaning of the holidays.

Set in the Hundred Acre Woods, Winnie the Pooh: Seasons of Giving 10th Anniversary Edition follows Pooh, Piglet, Tigger and Rabbit on a brave quest to find a favorite season they have seemed to miss – winter. Accompany them on a wild search for the perfect ingredients to creative a festive Thanksgiving feast and share in the warm glow of a Christmas that brings a surprise from a very special friend.

Winnie the Pooh: Seasons of Giving 10th Anniversary Edition includes two new-to-DVD (U.S only) Pooh episodes (“The New Adventures of Winnie the Pooh: The Magic Earmuffs,” “The New Adventures of Winnie the Pooh: The Wishing Bear”) plus five heartfelt songs and a collectible Christmas stocking.

The different types of animation present here lead to stories of the winter and winter festivities and they do seem like the perfect fodder for the Hundred Acre Wood characters to use as learning experiences. This may make for an amusing and enjoyable holiday stocking stuffer.

Wizard of Oz 70th Anniversary Ultimate Collector’s Edition

SoCalThrills Staff

September 27, 2009

It is difficult to imagine a motion picture more magical and more wonderful than Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer’s wonderful The Wizard of Oz. Over the last seven decades, the film has indelibly woven itself into America’s cultural consciousness: Is there anyone who doesn’t immediately think of the film upon hearing the words, “Dorothy,” “Toto,” “Emerald City,” “Ruby Slippers” and “Yellow Brick Road” — or the lines to the song “Over the Rainbow?”

Now, the colorful characters and unforgettable songs of Oz come alive as never before when Warner Home Video brings this cinematic treasure into the digital age with the September 29 Blu-ray release of The Wizard of Oz 70th Anniversary Ultimate Collector’s Edition. The commemorative edition contains nearly 4 hours of all-new and never-before-available bonus features and is housed in numbered collectible packaging, and will be available for a limited time only.

In order to bring all the visual splendor of The Wizard of Oz to the Hi-Def world of Blu-ray Disc, the film has been entirely remastered, with each of the original Technicolor camera negatives scanned using 8K resolution. From this scan, a final ‘capture’ master was created in 4K, yielding twice the resolution seen in the master utilized for the film’s previous DVD release.

(Clip from the DVD – Munchkinland)

Working in ‘full film Resolution’, extreme care was taken to ensure that all of the image fidelity contained in the original negatives was properly captured for this new presentation. The sounds of Oz will come alive on Blu-ray disc utilizing the full audio spectrum capabilities available through Dolby TrueHD audio. The net result is one of unprecedented quality that is sure to make The Wizard of Oz 70th Anniversary Edition a benchmark in the history of the Blu-ray format.

The Wizard of Oz: 70th Anniversary Ultimate Collector’s Edition Blu-ray set benefits incrementally from a new transfer and substantially from presentation in 1080p high definition with lossless audio. The supplements include everything that was released on the jam-packed 2005 3-disc special edition DVD with the addition of non-trivial relevant materials including “The Patchwork Girl of Oz”, a silent Oz feature from 1915 until recently thought to be a lost film, and “The Dreamer of Oz”, a feature length 1990 telefilm biopic of L. Frank Baum never before released on home video. Physical extras are all new and even better than the prior DVD box set. Fans of Oz will certainly get value for their money.

The following components are ALL-NEW and exclusive to this release:

The Dreamer of Oz – which makes its long-awaited home video debut. Also remastered for the occasion, this full-length motion picture was an NBC-TV special event in 1990 and thrilled critics and audiences as it told the back story of author L. Frank Baum, “the Royal Historian of Oz.” John Ritter shines in the title role — the man who defied all odds to create the famous characters and stories. Annette O’Toole beautifully co-stars as his supportive wife, with Rue McClanahan as his challenging witch of a mother-in-law.

Victor Fleming, Master Craftsman — a new feature-length documentary produced specifically for this release about the Hollywood director who, in the same year, miraculously brought both Oz and Gone With the Wind to the screen.

Hollywood Celebrates It’s Biggest Little Stars— a new featurette that stars seven of the original “Munchkins of Oz” and tells the saga of the long journey, culminating in them receiving their own 2007 Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

The Magic Cloak of Oz — the first release of the complete 1914 silent film, including lost footage never before included in a home video presentation of this feature (produced by Baum himself).

The Patchwork Girl of Oz — another 1914 Baum-produced, feature-length silent film, new to Warner Home Video.

The Wizard of Oz Sing-Along Track — here making its home entertainment debut.

Reproductions of Archival Material — Extraordinary renderings of the original 1939 Oz campaign, exploitation, and press books. These materials constitute a Hollywood “holy grail” for Oz, Garland, and motion picture fans alike and, for decades, have been among the most sought-after and impossible-to-find collectibles.

Behind The Curtain — a 52-page miniature coffee-table book, assembled by pre-eminent Oz historian John Fricke. Encompassing much previously unpublished material, the deluxe volume includes behind-the-scenes Oz photographs, studio memos, and script pages for abandoned scenes and musical numbers.

Exclusive Wizard of Oz Watch — A collectible and numbered 70th Anniversary watch, incorporating art from the film and enhanced with genuine crystals. Available nowhere else, this beautiful timepiece was created specially for this DVD edition.

And for the Blu-Ray Ultimate Collector’s Edition, the original extended version of “If I Only Had a Brain” performed by Ray Bolger has been remastered in hi-definition especially for this release.

Ultimate Force of Four Blu-ray Box Set!

Shaun Beckerman

September 25, 2009

Prepare for the ultimate in hard-hitting action and excitement as four Kung-Fu classics high-kick their way onto Blu-ray High Definition as part of the The Ultimate Force of Four Box Set, arriving in stores September 15, 2009, from Miramax Home Entertainment. This must own box set includes stunning new Blu-ray transfers of the martial arts masterpieces Hero, Iron Monkey, The Legend of Drunken Master and Zatoichi. Experience each film’s dazzling fight sequences and death-defying stunts with truly immersive high definition picture and sound that’ll put you smack in the middle of the action. Each Kung-Fu classic also steps up on Blu-ray with slick fighting moves, including revealing bonus features that will take fans behind its production.

New to Blu-Ray comes The Ultimate Force of Four, a box set containing four films that should be familiar to any fan of the kung-fu genre. Included are Hero, The Legend of Drunken Master, Iron Monkey, and The Blind Swordsman: Zatoichi. All very different films, but all are classics in their own right.

If you are considering picking up this set, odds are that you are already familiar with all of these films. Starring legends of the genre such as Jackie Chan, Jet Li, etc. these films are a great showcase for the amazing martial arts and stunt work for which they are known.

Unfortunately, the Blu-Rays don’t have all that much to recommend beyond the films themselves. This is a pretty bare-bones set, and if you are looking for deep insight or behind-the-scenes information, you’re not going to get it. They all contain some brief interviews, a couple of quick behind-the-scenes features, and that’s about it. The picture is good, but nothing noteworthy. They don’t look all that different from their DVD releases, and there’s really nothing new on display.

Basically, you already know whether or not you want this set. You’re either a fan of the genre or not, and while it’s kind of neat to have all of these films in one place, there’s no real bonus to purchasing them in this box set.

Individual Blu-ray editions of these films will also be sold separately. The individual Blu-ray Edition of Hero includes a bonus Digital Copy (Please note: the Box Set version of Hero does not include a Digital Copy). Hero will also be available on a Special Edition DVD. Individual Blu-ray editions of Iron Monkey, The Legend of Drunken Master and Zatoichi will also be available. To experience Kung-Fu like never seen before with picture perfect quality and sound, buy one or buy them all this fall!

Disney's Culinary Academy!

SoCalThrills Staff

September 25, 2009

Participants even receive 30 hours of accredited class time that can be used to pursue a career in the culinary arts. On the fourth day of class, six teams have to beat the clock to create a three-course meal from scratch.

Movie Review: "A Serious Man"

SoCalThrills Staff

September 23, 2009

A Serious Man is the story of an ordinary man’s search for clarity in a universe where Jefferson Airplane is on the radion and F-Troop is on TV. It is 1967, and Larry Gopnik (Michael Stuhlbarg), a physics professor at a quiet Midwestern university, has just been informed by his wife Judith (Sari Lennick) that she is leaving him. She has fallen in love with one of his more pompous acquaintances, Sy Ableman (Fred Melamed), who seems to her a more substantial person than the feckless Larry. Larry’s unemployable brother Arthur (Richard Kind) is sleeping on the couch, his son Danny (Aaron Wolff) is a discipline problem and a shirker at Hebrew school, and his daughter Sarah (Jessica McManus) is filching money from his wallet in order to save up for a nose job.

While his wife and Sy Ableman blithely make new domestic arrangements, and his brother becomes more and more of a burden, an anonymous hostile letter-writer is trying to sabotage Larry’s chances for tenure at the university. Also, a graduate student seems to be trying to bribe him for a passing grade while at the same time threatening to sue him for defamation. Plus, the beautiful woman next door torments him by sunbathing nude. Struggling for equilibrium, Larry decides to seek answers from three local rabbi, none of which are able to give him any advice he believes to be of value. And things only get worse, because they certainly aren’t getting any better.

This movie on one level is an exploration of what it was like to grow up Jewish in the midwest in the late sixties, of what it’s like to grow up Jewish at all trying to find meaning in a world while following a god who has failed millions.

A Serious Man is a brilliant dark comedy which will have you laughing out loud, a skilled character study filled with great acting, of a family in crisis, the moral decisions they face, and the funny consequences that result. The ending will have you talking about the movie after leaving the theater, in a confused daze. But that’s to be expected of a Coen Brothers film.

Richard Kind states, “A Serious Man is, I believe, how Joel and Ethan Coen view the world and ‘the human condition.’ It’s also a good yard about one very sad SOB.“

Expansion of Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa Unveiled

SoCalThrills Staff

September 23, 2009

Disneyland Resort today unveiled a stunning new addition to its Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, including 203 new guest rooms and 50 two-bedroom equivalent Disney Vacation Club villas, the first Disney Vacation Club property on the West Coast. Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa immerses Guests in the magic of the Disneyland Resort by capturing the spirit of early California through design and architecture. Many of the new vacation villas offer Guests spectacular views into Disney’s California Adventure Park.

“This expansion reinforces Disney’s long-term commitment to investing in Anaheim’s Resort District,” said Ed Grier, president of Disneyland Resort. “Since opening in 2001, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa continues to impress our Guests with its timeless sophistication and exquisite service. The new villas and hotel rooms will give more Guests the opportunity to enjoy the immersive vacation experience Disney is known for.”

The 2.5-acre addition to Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, which increases accommodations by more than 30 percent, is part of ongoing Resort expansion work. Currently underway is a multiyear expansion of Disney’s California Adventure Park, which will add new attractions, entertainment experiences and an entirely new 12-acre Cars Land. In addition, the Resort’s historic Disneyland Hotel also began a major three-year renovation last month.

“We are so fortunate to have a wonderful partner in the Disneyland Resort,” said Anaheim Mayor Curt Pringle. “Disney’s continued investment in Anaheim benefits the entire Resort District as well as the surrounding community. This grand addition to the city’s only four-diamond hotel will encourage even more visitors to come to Anaheim and experience a vacation in our great City.”

The Villas at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa mark the 10th property for Disney Vacation Club, Disney’s innovative vacation-ownership program. As with all Disney Vacation Club properties, Guests are able to experience the comforts of home, such as a fully equipped kitchen, living area, dining area, washer and dryer, whirlpool tub and other amenities, depending on the size of the accommodations. Guests can choose from four different room categories including a studio (sleeps 4), one-bedroom villa (sleeps up to 5), two-bedroom villa (sleeps up to 9) and the three-bedroom, two-story Grand Villa (sleeps up to 12).

“It is exciting to witness the incredible growth of Disney Vacation Club, because not only are we creating new accommodations here in Anaheim, we are creating new experiences,” said Disney Vacation Club President Jim Lewis. “Now Disney Vacation Club is part of the place where it all started, a place known worldwide as the Happiest Place on Earth.”

Other new amenities at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa include the Mariposa swimming pool, the Grizzly Game Arcade, a Guest laundry facility, two gas barbeque grills, the Paradise View Terrace on the 6th floor, overlooking the Paradise Pier area of Disney’s California Adventure Park, underground valet parking spaces, and an expanded Pinocchio’s Workshop – a licensed child activity center. The hotel now boasts 948 guest rooms, which includes 44 guest suites, as well as 50 Disney Vacation Club two-bedroom equivalent vacation villas.

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
The only AAA Four-Diamond hotel in North Orange County, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is an architectural and artistic celebration of California’s renowned Arts & Crafts style of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

One of three hotels at the Disneyland Resort, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is home to the nationally renowned and award-winning Napa Rose restaurant, where Wine Country cuisine tempts taste buds and expert sommeliers help Guests make selections from one of the world’s finest collections of California wines. The nearby Storytellers Cafe lets kids and adults alike enjoy a dining experience that only Disney can do, complete with an array of popular Disney characters. These dining experiences, coupled with a luxury spa, onsite shopping and other amenities, helped the hotel earn the No. 3 spot on Travel & Leisure Family magazine’s list of the top family-friendly resort destinations.

Disney Vacation Club
Disney Vacation Club is a vacation-ownership program that helps families enjoy flexibility and savings on vacations for decades to come. By purchasing a real estate interest in a Disney Vacation Club resort, families enjoy memorable vacations at Disney destinations worldwide as well as more than 500 other popular Member Getaways vacation locations around the globe.

Disney Vacation Club, currently celebrating its milestone 18th anniversary, has grown to serve more than 420,000 individual members from approximately 100 countries and all 50 states. The expansion project marks the latest growth for Disney Vacation Club, which recently opened Kidani Village, part of the popular Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge at the Walt Disney World Resort. Plus, plans are underway to open Disney’s family-friendly mixed-use resort in Hawaii, which is scheduled to include 350 traditional hotel rooms and 481 Disney Vacation Club villas built on 21 acres of oceanfront property on the island of O‘ahu. For more information please visit www.disneyvacationclub.com.

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