Disneyland Resort Announces Event Dates and More for 2024

December 5, 2023

For the first time, Disneyland Resort is giving dates and offering details early for some fan-favorite limited-time and seasonal events throughout the year. Along with the dates, there is some exciting news too, like the return of the celebration of friendship and beyond, Pixar Fest, plus the arrival of Season of the Force in the spring! Get ready to mark your calendars and plan some trips to The Happiest Place on Earth in 2024!

You can book Disneyland Resort theme park reservations up to 180 days in advance with the expanded reservation calendar, and the slate of scheduled events can help plan visits earlier.

What’s Coming to Disneyland in 2024

Guests of all ages have so much to look forward to in 2024, no matter when you plan to visit. From the resort-wide Pixar Fest celebration to favorite festivals like the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival, the return of “Fantasmic!” and much more, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, Disney is investing in the development of even more guest experiences coming to Disneyland Resort, with Pixar Place Hotel opening Jan. 30; the upcoming attraction, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure; and the continued transformation of the Downtown Disney District.

For more information and to book a Disneyland Resort vacation package, fill out this FREE QUOTE FORM and a Travel agent will get in touch with you soon.

Pixar Fest Returns This Spring

Pixar Fest returns to the Disneyland Resort from April 26 through Aug. 4, 2024, bringing us together for a celebration of friendship and beyond. From colorful décor and themed menu items to commemorative merchandise, the Disneyland Resort theme parks, hotels, and Downtown Disney District will have a Pixar twist of friendly fun for a limited time.

Disneyland Resort

This festival of friendship is highlighted by heartwarming entertainment featuring Pixar stories. An all-new daytime parade, “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!”, will debut at Disney California Adventure Park, and at Disneyland Park, the emotional “Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular” returns with some all-new scenes. During the celebration, you may encounter new characters such as Ember and Wade from “Elemental,” Red Panda Mei from “Turning Red” and more. Additional entertainment and offerings will be announced at a later date.

Disney Festivals and Limited-Time Celebrations

Lunar New Year at Disney California Adventure Park (Jan. 23-Feb. 18): A tribute to Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean traditions, this multicultural celebration rings in the Year of the Dragon with Asian-inspired food and beverages, vibrant décor and Mushu leading the way in “Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession.”

Disneyland Resort

Celebrate Gospel at Disneyland Park (Feb. 17 and 24): Performing at the Fantasyland Theatre, the 2024 “Celebrate Gospel” concerts will be headlined by Marvin Sapp (Feb. 17) and Tasha Cobbs Leonard (Feb. 24). “Celebrate Gospel” is an annual tribute to Gospel music that brings together award-winning music artists and community choirs from across Southern California.

Anaheim Ducks Days at Disney California Adventure Park (Feb. 22-23): In celebration of the Anaheim Ducks Hockey Club’s 30th anniversary, Disneyland Resort and the Anaheim Ducks team up for a two-day event in Hollywood Land, including a celebratory cavalcade, fan zone with themed activities and photo opportunities, plus appearances by select current and legacy team players.

Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival (March 1-April 22): The gastronomic extravaganza serves up creative foods and beverages, cooking demonstrations and family- friendly entertainment inspired by the diverse cultures and cuisines of the Golden State. The popular attraction, Soarin’ Over California, also returns for a limited time during the festival.

Disneyland Resort

Season of the Force at Disneyland Park (April 5-June 2): Season of the Force arrives at Disneyland park with Hyperspace Mountain and specially themed food and beverage, merchandise and more for a limited time. Debuting during the celebration, you’ll be able to embark on new adventures aboard Star Tours – The Adventures Continue, and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will provide fresh perspective on the fireworks above Disneyland park, with galactic music sweeping through the spires.

Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort (Aug. 23-Oct. 31): Wicked fun for all ages, this spellbinding season transforms the resort with autumn décor, characters dressed in hauntingly haute Halloween outfits and uniquely themed attractions.

Disneyland Resort

Plaza de la Familia at Disney California Adventure Park (Aug. 23-Nov. 2): The everlasting bonds of family and Mexican traditions of Día de los Muertos are honored through a cultural experience featuring storytelling and music from Pixar’s “Coco.”

Holidays at the Disneyland Resort (Begins Nov. 15): Family and friends can celebrate the season with the lively Disney Festival of Holidays at Disney California Adventure, plus seasonal overlays on beloved attractions, cherished holiday spectaculars and dazzling wintry décor throughout the resort.

Disneyland Resort

Disney’s Separately Ticketed After-Hours Events

You may also choose to attend a fan-favorite after-hours event scheduled in 2024. These themed, separately ticketed events include pre-party park mix-in, shorter wait times for select attractions, unlimited select Disney PhotoPass digital photo downloads from the event, and more.

Disneyland After Dark (select nights from January through June): Disneyland park will host four themed soirées packed with unique entertainment, rare character encounters and distinctive menus of sweet treats and savory snacks. Specific details on this year’s Disneyland After Dark themes and events will be shared very soon – so be sure to check back to the Disney Parks Blog!

Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party* (Returning in 2024): Disney California Adventure park will throw family-friendly Halloween parties including immersive treat trails, rare character sightings and unique entertainment. For this spirited occasion, you are invited to dress up in your favorite Halloween costume.

More Disney Magic in the Making

The reimagined Pixar Place Hotel opens Jan. 30, 2024, marking the official transformation of Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel into the first fully Pixar-themed hotel in the United States. The 15- story hotel overlooking Disney California Adventure park will offer Pixar-themed guest rooms, new dining featuring Great Maple restaurant, a rooftop pool area, play court and more.

Beginning May 24, the nighttime spectacular “Fantasmic!” will once again illuminate the Rivers of America in Disneyland park, featuring new special effects, a thrilling new battle scene between Sorcerer Mickey and Maleficent, plus the return of the iconic “Peter Pan” scene. In this treasured show, fantastic events and images from Disney stories come to life through soaring music, dozens of live performers, character appearances and state-of-the-art projections.

Disneyland Resort

When the new attraction Tiana’s Bayou Adventure debuts at Disneyland park later in 2024, you’ll get to embark on a musical journey inspired by Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “The Princess and the Frog.”

Shops and restaurants in the area will also continue to offer new must-have merchandise and menu items to discover. Musical entertainment, activities and events make the newly opened Downtown Disney LIVE! stage and lawn on the district’s west end an ideal location for gathering and relaxation.

Disneyland Resort Special Ticket Offers

A variety of ticket options and special offers throughout the year make it possible for many to visit Disneyland Resort.

If you’re planning a trips for early in the new year, remember that families can get greater value with a special offer on Disneyland Resort theme park tickets for children ages 3-9. Valid for visits between Jan. 8 and March 10, 2024 (no blockout dates, subject to park reservation availability), child tickets can be purchased for as low as $50 per child, per day.

And for Southern California residents, there are even more ways to save in the first part of the year. The Southern California resident ticket offer is back, where eligible guests may experience the magic of Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure Park for as low as $75 per day for a limited time with the purchase of a three-day, one-park per day ticket, subject to park reservations. These tickets, which are a terrific value, go on sale tomorrow, Dec. 5, 2023, for visits on select days Jan. 2 through June 2, 2024.

For more information and to book a Disneyland Resort vacation package, fill out this FREE QUOTE FORM and a Travel agent will get in touch with you soon.

Disney and Pixar’s “Soul,” “Turning Red” and “Luca” Heading to Theaters

Robbie Bulus

December 5, 2023

Three feature films from Disney and Pixar will hit the big screen nationwide for the first time ever in 2024, including 2020’s “Soul,” 2021’s “Luca” and 2022’s “Turning Red.” Tickets go on sale Jan. 2, 2024, for the special engagement theatrical runs, which invite moviegoers to experience three Pixar films the way they were meant to be seen ahead of the studio’s June 2024 theatrical release of “Inside Out 2.”

Like Pixar theatrical experiences of the past, audiences will be treated to a Pixar animated short film ahead of each of the features. “Soul,” opening in theaters on Jan. 12, will be accompanied by the SparkShort “Burrow.” “Turning Red,” opening Feb. 9, will be preceded by the SparkShort “Kitbull.” “Luca,” which hits the big screen on March 22, includes the classic Pixar short “For the Birds.”

ABOUT “SOUL” (Jan. 12, 2024)
What is it that makes you…YOU? Pixar Animation Studios’ “Soul,” Oscar® winner for best-animated feature film, introduces Joe Gardner (voice of Jamie Foxx) – a middle-school band teacher who gets the chance of a lifetime to play at the best jazz club in town. But one small misstep takes him from the streets of New York City to The Great Before – a fantastical place where new souls get their personalities, quirks, and interests before they go to Earth.

Determined to return to his life, Joe teams up with a precocious soul, 22 (voice of Tina Fey), who has never understood the appeal of the human experience. As Joe desperately tries to show 22 what’s great about living, he may just discover the answers to some of life’s most important questions.

Directed by Academy Award® winner Pete Docter (“Inside Out,” “Up”), co-directed by Kemp Powers (“Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse,” “One Night in Miami”—Oscar® nominee for best adapted screenplay) and produced by Academy Award winner Dana Murray, p.g.a. (Pixar short “Lou”), Disney and Pixar’s “Soul” also won the Oscar for best achievement in music written for motion picture (original score by Trent Reznor, Atticus Ross, Jon Batiste), as well as Golden Globes® for best motion picture—animated and best original score—motion picture (Reznor, Ross, Batiste), and GRAMMY® for best score soundtrack for visual media (Reznor, Ross, Batiste). “Soul” will open in theaters on Jan. 12, 2024.

In “Burrow,” a young rabbit embarks on a journey to dig the burrow of her dreams, despite not having a clue what she’s doing. Rather than reveal to her neighbors her imperfections, she digs herself deeper and deeper into trouble. After hitting (bed)rock bottom, she learns there is no shame in asking for help. Directed by Madeline Sharafian and produced by Mike Capbarat, “Burrow” is part of Pixar Animation Studios’ SparkShorts program.

ABOUT “TURNING RED” (Feb. 9, 2024)
Disney and Pixar’s “Turning Red” introduces Mei Lee (voice of Rosalie Chiang), a confident, dorky 13-year-old torn between staying her mother’s dutiful daughter and the chaos of adolescence. Her protective, if not slightly overbearing mother, Ming (voice of Sandra Oh), is never far from her daughter—an unfortunate reality for the teenager. And as if changes to her interests, relationships and body weren’t enough, whenever she gets too excited (which is practically ALWAYS), she “poofs” into a giant red panda!

Directed by Academy Award® winner Domee Shi (Pixar short “Bao”) and produced by Lindsey Collins (“Finding Dory”), “Turning Red” was nominated for an Academy Award for best animated feature film, as well as a Golden Globe for best motion picture—animated. “Turning Red” opens in theaters Feb. 9, 2024.

Pixar Animation Studios’ SparkShort “Kitbull,” directed by Rosana Sullivan and produced by Kathryn Hendrickson, reveals an unlikely connection that sparks between two creatures: a fiercely independent stray kitten and a pit bull. Together, they experience friendship for the first time.

ABOUT “LUCA” (March 22, 2024)
Set in a beautiful seaside town on the Italian Riviera, Disney and Pixar’s original feature film “Luca” is a coming-of-age story about one young boy experiencing an unforgettable summer filled with gelato, pasta and endless scooter rides. Luca (voice of Jacob Tremblay) shares these adventures with his newfound best friend, Alberto (voice of Jack Dylan Grazer), but all the fun is threatened by a deeply-held secret: they are sea monsters from another world just below the water’s surface.

Directed by Academy Award® nominee Enrico Casarosa (“La Luna”) and produced by Andrea Warren (“Lava,” “Cars 3”), “Luca” was nominated for an Oscar for best animated feature film and a Golden Globe for best motion picture—animated. “Luca” releases in theaters on March 22, 2024.

In Pixar Animation Studios’ Academy Award®-winning short film “For the Birds,” small birds mock a big bird who tries to join them on a telephone wire. Written and directed by Ralph Eggleston and produced by Karen Dufilho-Rosen, “For the Birds” initially opened in front of Disney and Pixar’s “Monsters, Inc.” in 2001.

A Sweet Return for the Disney Candy Canes

Maverick Bohn

December 5, 2023

Kicking off at Candy Palace in Disneyland earlier this week, the ever popular and world famous Disneyland candy canes have returned for a limited run. First enjoyed by park guests in 1968, the sweet treats have been a core staple of the holidays at the Disneyland Resort, each bringing a plethora of festive joy to all who receive them.

Once described as “infamous” by the Disney Parks Blog, these delectable goodies are made each morning in limited quantities and are a guaranteed sell out for each batch. Part of the reason for the craze is the process of crafting each candy cane.

Cast members preparing candy canes — You can take a look at the candy making process from the windows of both Candy Palace in Disneyland and Trolley Treats in Disney California Adventure

Every candy cane sold in Disneyland is hand-crafted during the holiday season from large batches made in house and then meticulously hand-pulled, rolled, and twisted into the classic candy cane shape.

Candy cane rolling — Each candy cane is rolled, cut, and shaped with magical care in house!

Each candy cane is 18 inches long and individually wrapped with a special holiday message from Mickey himself!

Candy Cane Mickey — Each candy cane is protected by a special bubble wrap, which includes a holiday greeting from the one and only, Mickey Mouse!

You can get a closer look at the process below in our video, which previews the entire process that goes into each candy cane, including the final presentation.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by SocalThrills (@socalthrills)

Guests can take their chance at getting one of these precious candy canes by using Disney’s mobile waitlist. Considering the very limited quantities, it’s recommended to arrive at the park just prior to park open, as this waitlist will close fast and not guarantee a candy cane even if one can be added to the waitlist.

In order to be added to the waitlist, guests can visit the designated location for that day, providing their name and phone number to the available Cast Member. Once on the waitlist, each guest will receive a text message to confirm enrollment on the list and if they’re lucky, receive a return text, which will provide a 30 minute window to return to purchase a candy cane.

The full schedule can be found below for this year’s candy cane distribution! Park entry will be required for each guest, along with the applicable park reservation to purchase a candy cane.

Disneyland Park- Candy Palace: Dec 3rd, 5th, 10th, 12th, 17th, 19th, and 24th

Disney California Adventure Park: Dec 4th, 6th, 11th, 13th, 18th, 20th, and 25th

Candy Canes are priced at $21.99 each (plus tax) and are not eligible for discount or mobile order offerings. For those interested in other holiday treats, such as the holiday classic, Mickey Gingerbread cookie, make sure to check out our full foodie guide as we enter the heart of the holidays here at the Disneyland Resort!

Disneyland Celebrates Candlelight 2023

Maverick Bohn

December 4, 2023

One of Disneyland’s oldest and grandest traditions has once again graced the steps of Main Street USA with the return of the Candlelight Procession. The yearly holiday ceremony took place this past weekend, featuring four performances over two nights; each bringing tears of joy to the thousands of guests who had the opportunity to participate across the Disneyland Resort.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by SocalThrills (@socalthrills)

The procession’s origins date back to the earliest days of Disneyland, first taking place in 1958 as a way for Walt Disney to give back to the Orange County community and provide thanks for all those who helped create a home for his original magic kingdom.

Candlelight has since grown into one of Disney Parks most elaborate spectacles, showcasing a multitude of talent and preparation that has become world renowned. The ceremony also takes place at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida.

The Candlelight Procession features an ensemble of hundreds of choir members, each representing various community choirs and organizations, including Disneyland Resort Cast Members. The choir is also accompanied by a live orchestra, solo performers, as well as a celebrity guest narrator who leads the ceremony each year.

Candlelight’s honorary narrator for this year was The Marvels’ star, Brie Larson, who is part of a long long of dignified guests that include Disney Legend, Dick Van Dyke, Actress Viola Davis, as well as fellow Marvel Studios star Chris Hemsworth.

Larson, who is no stranger to the Disneyland Resort, took to the Candlelight podium with style and grace, giving a warm and heartfelt performance. At one point during the end of the evening, Larson held back tears, moved herself by the ceremony and the rest of her fellow performers, giving all of us something to cherish for holidays to come!

“It’s just been an absolute honor”, Larson exclaimed. “You make me cry every time, so thank you for that!” Make sure not to miss your chance to experience Candlelight for yourself when it returns to the Disneyland Resort for the 2024 Holiday season!

New Disney+ Subscriber Perks Launching This Holiday Season

Robbie Bulus

November 30, 2023

To bring extra joy this holiday season, Disney+ is launching a new suite of perks for its subscribers. From November 30, 2023, to January 31, 2024, an active Disney+ subscription in the US will unlock various special discounts and offers across Disney and other partners, taking audiences from their homes to theaters to Walt Disney World and more!

The Disney+ Perks include:

An exclusive sweepstakes opportunity for current subscribers
20% discount on Ubisoft’s Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora™ PC game
$5 Fandango Promo Code to use toward a movie ticket to see Disney Animation’s newest musical fantasy, Wish
Walmart+ Membership (Offer coming soon)
Special Offer for Walt Disney World Resort (Launching January 3)
Bundle of over 30 free Marvel Digital Comics
50% off a D23 Gold Membership and access to other special offers
Early access to special Frozen and Star Wars collectibles at shopDisney
Free gift from Disney Emoji Blitz
15% off of Disney-inspired products at Funko
15% off of Disney-inspired merchandise at Loungefly
20% off of Disney Dreamlight Valley: Cozy Edition at Best Buy
Free, exclusive digital rewards on Disney Movie Insiders
15% off of vinyl and collectibles from Disney Music Emporium

For more information and to unlock these perks, please visit http://www.disneyplus.com/perks.

Disney | Kith collaboration for Mickey & Friends 2023

Robbie Bulus

November 23, 2023

Kith reprised its collaboration with Disney to create an extensive collection of elevated apparel, accessories, and lifestyle goods that celebrate Disney’s 100 years of stories, magic, and memories.

Archival artwork of beloved characters and moments between Disney Mickey Mouse and his friends—Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Pluto, Donald Duck, and Daisy Duck—was reimagined through the Kith lens to create a range of designs with premium execution. Each piece is uplifted by signature hues from Kith’s and Disney’s palette. The apparel includes jackets, hoodies, crewnecks, shirts, vintage tees, and more.

Standouts include the Varsity Jacket, Tapestry Coaches Jacket, Sherpa Hoodie, and Crewneck Sweater. The Wool Varsity Jacket is crafted of premium wool blended fabric, with Nappa leather sleeves & a diamond-quilted satin lining—and features all-over custom leather applique Mickey Mouse artwork at the front and back. The Tapestry Coaches Jacket showcases an all-over woven Mickey Mouse & Kith action graphic throughout the composition and is crafted from woven tapestry fabrication. The Sherpa Hoodie, crafted of premium heavyweight Sherpa fabric with a mesh-lined body, highlights exclusive satin-stitch “Just Us” embroidery, alongside jacquard Mickey Mouse & Minnie Mouse artwork on the front and back. The Crewneck Sweater features an array of beloved Disney characters with a chain-stitch execution on our signature chunky cotton knit.

The collection is complete with a variety of accessories and lifestyle goods. Accessories include signature and collaborative headwear, scarves, and tote bags. Our signature cotton chunky yarn beanies return alongside collaborative 59FIFTY and 9FORTY caps created in partnership with New Era. Each piece of headwear highlights an iconic Disney character and embroidery co-branding throughout. The accessory assortment is rounded with jacquard scarves and tote bags offered in Kith Foundational colors like Sandrift and Nocturnal. Complementing the accessories is an array of lifestyle goods—from the celebratory Just Us Puzzle and Canadian maple skate decks to the Disney100 Tapestry Blanket and Disney Mickey & Friends Plush Set.

This year’s collection continues with a Kith Kids offering, which takes inspiration from adult styles and includes collaborative jackets, hoodies, crewnecks, button-downs, vintage tees, and headwear.

Alongside the collection, Kith and Disney created an array of fleecewear for Kith’s upcoming Monday Program™. Each 400GSM cotton fleece crewneck and hoodie features a co-branded Kith Classic logo that stars iconic Mickey & Friends characters.

The Disney | Kith for Mickey & Friends Collection for adult and kids collections will be released globally on Friday, November 24th, at 11 AM EST/CET in Kith shops, and on Kith.com, CA.Kith.com, EU.Kith.com & the Kith App.

The Disney | Kith for Mickey & Friends Monday Program releases Monday, November 27th at 11 AM EST/CET in Kith shops, and on Kith.com, CA.Kith.com, EU.Kith.com & the Kith App.

Knott’s Merry Farm is back with Snoopy, Snow and Fun!

Socalthrills Staff

November 21, 2023

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at Knott’s Merry Farm. During the holiday season, the park transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland featuring a landscape of thousands of twinkling lights and miles of beautiful garland. New for guests this year, Knott’s melodrama company presents a reimagined Charles Dickens classic, A Calico Christmas Carol. The Bird Cage Theatre will also present the heartwarming Knott’s version of O. Henry’s classic tale of love and sacrifice, The Gift of the Magi, 1885.

Christmas in Calico continues as the Snow and Glow experience fills the buildings and paths with thousands of lights dancing to the beat of Christmas music while “snow” gently falls throughout Ghost Town. The Wilderness Dance Hall transforms into Santa’s Christmas Cabin, where the entire family can create fond memories by taking photos with Santa Claus and his friends.

Knott’s vocal quartet, the Calico Carolers, transports guests back in time to a Victorian Christmas as they perform the season’s songs throughout the streets of Ghost Town. In Calico Park, guests are serenaded by the cappella group, The Sleigh Bells, with a soulful version of Christmas classics. A down-home dose of Christmas cheer is in store for those who join Krazy Kirk and the Hillbillies for a foot-stompin’ show with energetic music and comedy for the whole family. Yuletide cheer is in store with Home for the Holidays, where joyous merriment takes over the Calico Mine Stage with dancing and fun set to popular holiday tunes.

1 of 14

Over at the Walter Knott Theater, Snoopy and the Peanuts gang take to the ice in Snoopy’s Night Before Christmas. This guest favorite returns with the Knott’s Ice-Skating Ensemble and Snoopy retelling the classic poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas” re-imagined Peanuts style.

It’s not a holiday celebration without festive food. Throughout the park, guests can indulge in traditional holiday classics with a twist, including a Merry Farm favorite, the crispy breaded “Turkey Ball” filled with perfectly seasoned stuffing and sweet cranberry sauce, or the Red Velvet Churro stuffed with peppermint bark cream cheese.

1 of 39

Knott’s Christmas Crafts Village is back with dozens of local artisans selling their unique gifts, including chainsaw wood carvings and elegant glass blowing. Or make it a Berry Merry Christmas by shopping the Knott’s Berry Farm online Gift Guide for Marketplace favorites, collectibles, plush, apparel and more – perfect gifts for every Knott’s fan on your list.

Give the gift that keeps on giving all year with a 2024 Season Pass. A 2024 Season Pass includes unlimited visits through 2023 plus all of 2024, discounts on select food and merchandise, and access to exciting year-round seasonal events. A Regular Season Pass includes admission to Knott’s Berry Farm and a Gold Season Pass includes admission to both Knott’s Berry Farm and Knott’s Soak City Waterpark. Regular Season passes are as low as 10 payments of $7 after initial payment plus applicable fees and Gold Season Passes are as low as $9.50 after initial payment plus applicable fees. These offers end on January 7, 2024. Pricing and more information are available at knotts.com.

Turn your Merry Farm experience into a holly jolly hotel getaway with an overnight stay at The Knott’s Hotel. The Knott’s Merry Farm Hotel Getaway Package includes hotel accommodations, Knott’s Merry Farm admission for one day for each registered guest, and hotel parking. Upgrade to the Hotel Getaway Package + Breakfast for an unforgettable holiday celebration. For hotel reservations, please visit knotts.com.

Movie Review: Disney’s Wish

Maverick Bohn

November 17, 2023

The wishing star has been a part of the Disney mythos since its earliest days, looking back to 1940 when we first heard our conscience, Jiminy Cricket, sing out of his heart of hearts the ballad, “When You Wish Upon a Star!”. The song would go on to be an immortal part of the Disney legacy, building upon what came before and creating the bridge to what would become over 100 years’ worth of fantastical animated stories that have touched all our lives both young and old. Now we get a chance to look back at where the magic all begins in Disney’s latest animated feature, Wish.

Will the film live up to the legendary tales that have come before, and does it stand a chance to be enshrined along with the rest of these classic stories? For all those curious, Wish is a dream come true, bringing a century’s worth of magic full circle with a beautiful story, a stunning hybrid animation style, and catchy songs that will warm your heart all season long.

First announced at the 2022 D23 Expo, Wish was promised to be an origin story of sorts, a spark that would help connect all the different animated features in a fun and exciting way. The North Star, Second Star to the Right, you name it. The power of a wishing star is pivotal in the world of these iconic stories.

In what has become a very Disney-esque trope, what if “x” object had an origin/feelings/backstory, Wish begs the question, what really happens when we look up at the shimmering stars above, and what makes up the very wishes we hold in our hearts? Wish proves there is a story to unlock, and it does so with such whimsy, wit, and grace.

It all starts in the mystical land of Rosas, where the very wishes within the hearts of the people are given in order to provide peace and prosperity to the kingdom, with each wish being under the careful protection of its charming and self-made king, Magnifico, played by Princess Diaries 2 and Into the Woods alum, Chris Pine. Yet, not all is what it seems, and we get a chance to learn the sinister truth behind the magic that holds the kingdom together through the eyes of our latest Disney heroine, Asha.

Voiced by Hamilton and West Side Story starlet, Ariana DeBose, Asha is a starry-eyed optimist (pun intended), hoping to take up the role of King Magnifico’s apprentice. Little does she know what that dream will cost, and what powers it will unleash when she questions him about the purpose of the kingdom’s wishes and which ones he chooses to grant.

Asha is joined by her furry goat companion, Valentino, voiced by the legendary Alan Tudyk, who once again finds all the right notes with nonstop laughs. They team up with the powerhouse ensemble cast that features Angelique Cabral (Amaya), Victor Garber (Sabino), Della Saba (Bazeema), Jennifer Kumiya (Dahlia), Harvey Guillén (Gabo), Evan Peters (Simon), Natasha Rockwell (Sakina), and Jon Rudnitsky (Dario).

Yet, the breakout star of the film is quite literally the actual star of the picture, named adequately, Star. This mega-cute, fun-filled fireball has the biggest personality of them all, bringing the adorable factor to a breaking point without speaking a single word of dialogue. Star will touch your very soul and warm your heart, which will make it that much easier to want to purchase every single Star-themed item you can get your hands on. We see what you did there Disney!

In all seriousness, Star adds such a fun element to the concept of Wish and one that really lifts the film to new heights, along with its other use of imaginative world-building.

It all comes together through the use of clever references and nods to Disney classics that we all know and love, including the likes of Snow White, Peter Pan, Bambi, and Cinderella. Viewers will find a treasure trove of Easter Eggs throughout every element of the film from costume and character designs to dialogue, and other visual props from various tales throughout the last hundred years of storytelling.

Though these references aren’t just sprinkled in to celebrate the studio’s hundredth anniversary, they also act as real-world elements of Rosas that help develop the very lore in which many of the stories we know and love originate. It also creates a new layer for our favorite Disney films, prompting us to go back and view them with a different lens. The end result is a bold choice that really stands out as an absolute winner.

The legacy of Disney shines through and through, all the while pushing the boundaries and moving forward with how the story is told, which is very aligned with Walt Disney’s desire to constantly push the envelope of storytelling, finding new ways to instill the same core lessons and fables. As he so famously put it, “We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things because we’re curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.”

From start to finish, Wish delivers a visual treat, paying homage to the classic hand-drawn techniques of the studios’ origins, along with a hybrid of modern-era animation that comes off the screen like a watercolor matte painting. It’s stunning and though may take some getting used to, really creates a fun medium to explore that doesn’t take either animation style for granted. Though, as always, we would love to see more hand-drawn elements, as this is a style that should not be lost and will always hold a special place for animation fans the world over.

Wish is a great balance and one that goes well beyond its visuals into every piece of the feature. This includes a plethora of new songs, with some definite standouts that are sure to get stuck in your head, such as the title song, “This Wish”, as well as the inspiring ballad, “I’m a Star”.

The heart of Wish really comes from this song, which sets the tone with a very simple concept. The magic we long for, the shining stars we see above us, are made of the same essence and power that makes us who we are. We are all capable of making our dreams come true, and that in true Disney fashion, anything is possible.

Wish casts its spell in theaters on November 22nd. You can learn more about the film, as well as hear from the cast and crew by checking out our full exclusive coverage.

Remember, you are a star and part of the magic!

Support CHOC on a Special Holiday Spin

Robbie Bulus

November 17, 2023

On Sunday, December 3, you can help CHOC (Children’s Hospital of Orange County) by riding on the beautiful holiday-themed South Coast Plaza Carousel to raise money for the Thompson Autism and Neurodevelopment Center. This event is open to everyone who signs up.

The goal is to raise $20,000 and we need your help. In the weeks leading up to the carousel adventure pledges will be collected online and if you want to participate in becoming a rider or donate click here for more info.

As a Rider, you will:

Create a personal fundraising page
Invite friends, family, and others to support you by donating online
Hop on the South Coast Plaza carousel December 3 at 8 am and go around 50 times
Have a chance to win prizes for being a top fundraiser
Download the CHOC Toolkit here

Presented by the Festival of Children Foundation and the CHOC Glass Slipper Guild, get ready to hop aboard a reindeer or sleigh. More info on the South Coast Plaza Carousel can be found here.

About CHOC:

Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC), a pediatric healthcare system based in Orange County, California, is committed to being a leading destination for children’s health by providing exceptional and innovative care. CHOC’s growing community includes two state-of-the-art hospitals in Orange and Mission Viejo and a regional network of primary and specialty care clinics serving children and families in four counties.

About Thompson Autism and Neurodevelopment Center at CHOC

A multidisciplinary clinic dedicated to offering diagnostic evaluations, behavioral consultations, therapy, and medical management for children and families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Your philanthropic contributions to the Thompson Autism and Neurodevelopment Center are crucial in offering essential, non-reimbursable services to children and their families, ultimately enhancing health outcomes and quality of life.

Theatre Review: ‘Dracula’ Draws Fresh Blood in Westminster

Russell Tom

November 16, 2023

Westminster Community Playhouse swoops in and takes a bite into the timeless classic vampire lore in “Dracula”. Directed by Brandon Ferruccio. Adapted into a stage play by Niel Labute with a twisted modern flare. Projecting feminism outlooks, particularly around the characters of Mina Murray and Dr. Van Helsing. Opening new grounds for character development as Jonathan Harker pushes back to hold on to old conservative ways.

With the various scene changes in the alternate past times of Romania and England, the stage is mostly painted a dark black around a coffin-shaped doorway. Minimal decoration of a mirror frame, writing table, window curtain, and cell bars add enough touch to the imagination to set the scenes. Steampunk aesthetics and goth-style costume designs set up a familiar yet new fantastical territory for the audience to embrace. The familiar original novel by Bram Stoker and its black and white film versions gets a new live stage adaptation that challenges the audience and unveils “Dracula” in new darkness.

A vocally menacing and devilishly handsome Dracula (Steven Vogel) calls upon realtor turned slave Renfield (Jose Orozco) to his castle in Transylvania to arrange purchasing property in England. Dracula makes clear to the sensual Vixen (Ashley Stewart, also playing the Maid) that he has plans for Renfield as his unwilling servant. Before descending into a mindless downward spiral, Renfield corresponds by letters to friends back home in England.

Strong-willed and minded Mina Murray (Caitlin Zinn) foresees a different living for women. Mina is in relations with the dashing Johnathan Harker (Dylan Ginez) whose conservative head remains dismissive of fantastical ways. Mina falls further into a sickly state and dark desires for Count Dracula reminiscent of her departed friend, Lucy. Dreamy Lucy Westerna (Gabriel Myers Prunty) is an innocent free spirit whose life is cut short and doomed to ravage the living. Lucy is in relation with the well-educated gentleman Dr. Arthur Seward (Bryan Edelmann).

Dr. Seward runs an asylum at his lofty estate. The group gets a fortunate visit from the highly-regarded Dr. Van Helsing (Candy Beck). Johnathan Harker makes clear that his conception of Dr. Van Helsing as a woman is to be perceived as an unfathomable outline. The good doctor performs deeds as a truly brave and bold vigilante should. Going so far as to barely resist the mind control of Dracula whose supernatural abilities overpower mortal victims.

Ervin Bolisay plays the Attendant and Captain, respectfully. If the prospect of paying respects to the vampire lore wasn’t enough to sink your teeth into, the conclusion of the play will not be what you would expect. Another twist to the ending will have the audience contemplate what could be next afterward.

Westminster Community Playhouse continues to lay new ground for a versatile platform to showcase enduring sophisticated talent from clever casting, memorable performers, and strong direction. “Dracula” takes another stab at Westminster Community Playhouse on November 17 at 8 pm, 18 at 8 pm, and 19 at 2 pm, 2023 before laying to final rest after the weekend’s performance. To purchase tickets, view upcoming season, or find out about auditions, visit their website at www.wcpstage.com.

1...404142...389 Page 41 of 389

-Advertisement-

Socalthrills.com

Disneyland Resort Announces Event Dates and More for 2024

What’s Coming to Disneyland in 2024

Pixar Fest Returns This Spring

Disney Festivals and Limited-Time Celebrations

Disney’s Separately Ticketed After-Hours Events

More Disney Magic in the Making

Disneyland Resort Special Ticket Offers

Disney and Pixar’s “Soul,” “Turning Red” and “Luca” Heading to Theaters

A Sweet Return for the Disney Candy Canes

Disneyland Celebrates Candlelight 2023

The Westin Anaheim Resort Unveils Enchanted Christmas Guest Experiences

New Disney+ Subscriber Perks Launching This Holiday Season

Disney | Kith collaboration for Mickey & Friends 2023

Knott’s Merry Farm is back with Snoopy, Snow and Fun!

Amtrak Pacific Surfliner Announces Holiday Travel Schedules

November Travel Updates

December Travel Updates

Movie Review: Disney’s Wish

Support CHOC on a Special Holiday Spin

Theatre Review: ‘Dracula’ Draws Fresh Blood in Westminster

Latest Posts

Review: Stereophonic at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre

Theatre Review: Scrooge at Chance Theater

Theatre Review: “A Christmas Carol” at A Noise Within

Theatre Review: Suffs – The Musical

Disney Launches First Trailer for Live-Action “Moana”

Theatre Review: Shucked A New Musical Comedy