Disney Debuts Super Bowl LVII Commercial Celebrating 100 Years

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February 12, 2023

The Walt Disney Company marks its 100th anniversary on Oct. 16, 2023, and throughout the year, will celebrate the fans and storytellers who have sparked the joy and magic that is Disney over the last 100 years. Disney honors those fans and creators with a special commercial debuting during Super Bowl LVII that spotlights 100 years of unrivaled storytelling and innovation.

“As we commemorate our historic 100th anniversary, it is remarkable to look back at Walt Disney’s legacy and his passionate pursuit of excellence that continue to propel the Company forward today. We are incredibly grateful to the generations of people all over the world for being such a special part of our history and for inviting our stories and characters into their lives over the past century,” said Robert A. Iger, Chief Executive Officer, The Walt Disney Company. “Disney100 represents a celebration of all of our fans and families, and our storytellers and creative visionaries whose talents and imaginations have created the magical moments that make Disney such an enduring part of the global culture.”

“Disney100 Special Look” features scenes from iconic Disney films, series, stage productions, theme parks, and fans, as well as a collection of inspiring words from Walt Disney, calling on the shared memories and nostalgia that have given Disney a special place in the hearts of audiences across the globe.

The debut of “Disney100 Special Look” during the big game is an exciting milestone for Disney – with a year full of opportunities for fans and families of all ages to relive their most beloved Disney memories and to delight in new, heartwarming stories and experiences. On Friday, Feb. 17, the newest Marvel Studios film, Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania, will debut in theaters.

Then, on Feb. 18, Disney100: The Exhibition will have its world premiere at The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, inviting guests into a 15,000-square-foot, ten-gallery exhibit that will bring Disney stories to life through innovative and immersive technology. The Walt Disney Archives is opening its vault of treasures, showcasing more than 250 of its “Crown Jewels” – rarely seen original artwork and artifacts, costumes and props, theme park attraction vehicles, and more. The exhibition will also make stops across the United States and throughout Europe.

Global audiences can enjoy an amazing slate of theatrical releases from our renowned studios, including Disney, Pixar, Marvel Studios, Lucasfilm, and more, coming through the rest of the year. From The Little Mermaid and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 in May, to Elemental, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, The Marvels, and The Haunted Mansion this summer, both long-beloved characters and new stories will come to life on the big screen. Then, on November 22, 2023, Walt Disney Animation Studios will debut Wish, an original animated musical film only in theaters.

Already, Disney Parks have begun delighting guests with special Disney100 celebrations. On Jan. 27, Disneyland Resort introduced the new Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway attraction, two new nighttime spectaculars: “World of Color – One” at Disney California Adventure and “Wondrous Journeys” at Disneyland park, and all-new, limited-time Disney100-themed entertainment, food and beverage, and merchandise offerings. Disney Parks across the world will also feature surprises throughout the year to celebrate this momentous milestone.

Disney will also celebrate its biggest fans with exclusive events, sneak previews, and, in September, a Disney100-themed Destination D23 just for members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club.

Disney is excited to celebrate its 100th anniversary with its fans, creators, and employees throughout the year. To learn more, visit Disney100.com and share your favorite Disney memories on social media with #Disney100.

Mickey’s Toontown to Reopen at Disneyland Park on March 19, 2023

By

Robbie Bulus

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February 10, 2023

UPDATE: Due to heavy winter storms that impacted Mickey’s Toontown construction, Disneyland is adjusting the reopening date to March 19.

When Disney first announced Mickey’s Toontown would undergo an ambitious reimagining, and reopen with some all-new experiences for families and young children to have more opportunities to play together inside Disneyland Park. At D23 Expo in September 2022, they shared a bit more about the interactive play areas and how they are stepping into a new era of inclusive experiences in this land for families of all ages.

We are all excited to see just how Mickey’s Toontown will become a vibrant symphony of sights, sounds and sensations very soon.

The reimagined Mickey’s Toontown will provide open, grassy play spaces for everyone to unwind, starting with CenTOONial Park, the first space guests will see when they enter the land. CenTOONial Park will be anchored by two new interactive play experiences; a beautiful fountain featuring water tables designed for play that invite guests to have a sensory experience, plus a nearby dreaming tree with sculpted tree roots providing an opportunity for children to crawl and explore.

Mickey’s Toontown is also home to the new attraction, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway! Inside the El CapiTOON Theater, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway will put you in the wacky and unpredictable cartoon world of Mickey and Minnie, where Guests will board a train with Goofy as the engineer. One magical moment after the next leads you to a zany, out-of-control adventure filled with surprising twists and turns that the entire family will enjoy!

Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway is now open, during the Disney 100 Years of Wonder Celebration at Disneyland Resort!

Over in Goofy’s neck of the woods, Guests will find Goofy’s How-To-Play Yard, as shown in this new aerial rendering of the area.

Dedicated to all things play, Goofy’s How-To-Play Yard incorporates a whimsical sound garden where kids will discover new ways to make wacky noises, as well as enjoy an all-new, elevated clubhouse.

When Guests step inside Goofy’s House, they’ll find a fun, interactive candy-making contraption that only Goofy could imagine! The confectionary contraption begins high outside of Goofy’s home, as drips of honey fall from a beehive onto a chute that slides the colorful drops around and down into the home. From there, junior candymakers will help Goofy make the candy, and the silly sounds of household appliances will combine to make a truly Goofy symphony.

Donald’s Boat will be perched in the duck pond of the Goof homestead. Imagine larger-than-life spinning water lilies, balance beams and rocking toys at Donald’s Duck Pond that will help little ones get the wiggles out. Kids will definitely love making a splash in this space! Guests can also look into the boat through the portholes to witness bubbles of fun inside the flooded vessel and interact with some familiar ducklings including Huey, Dewey, Louie and Webby.

For those wanting to get a little ‘nutty,’ Guests can head over to Chip ‘n’ Dale’s GADGETcoaster, where Mickey’s Toontown’s favorite tinkerer, Gadget Hackwrench, has created a one-of-a-kind, fun-sized coaster for the town’s tiniest citizens.

And at Mickey’s House and Minnie’s House, Guests will once again be able to step right into their homes and enjoy a self-guided tour as they discover special surprises in every room. They may even be able to visit with Mickey and Minnie while they’re there, should they be home!

Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin will also return, where Guests can board Lenny the Cab and spin through the streets and alleys of Toontown as they follow the adventures of Roger Rabbit.

And when Guests feel a snack attack coming on, they’ll be able to turn to two new places to appease their appetites in the land: Café Daisy, where acclaimed culinary expert, Daisy Duck, serves up diner classics at her sidewalk table eatery; and the Toontown Farmers Market at Good Boy! Grocers, a friendly roadside stand, offering grab and go drinks and treats.

Both a Theme Park reservation and valid admission for the same Park on the same day are required for Park entry. Park reservations are limited, subject to availability and not guaranteed. Visit https://disneytraveltradeinfo.com/dlr for important information to know before visiting the Disneyland Resort.

FAST X Trailer Available Now

By

Robbie Bulus

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February 10, 2023

Fast X, the tenth film in the Fast & Furious Saga, launches the final chapters of one of cinema’s most storied and popular global franchises, now in its third decade and still going strong with the same core cast and characters as when it began.

Over many missions and against impossible odds, Dom Toretto (Vin Diesel) and his family have outsmarted, out-nerved and out driven every foe in their path. Now, they confront the most lethal opponent they’ve ever faced: A terrifying threat emerging from the shadows of the past who’s fueled by blood revenge, and who is determined to shatter this family and destroy everything—and everyone—that Dom loves, forever.

In 2011’s Fast Five, Dom and his crew took out nefarious Brazilian drug kingpin Hernan Reyes and decapitated his empire on a bridge in Rio De Janeiro. What they didn’t know was that Reyes’ son, Dante (Aquaman’s Jason Momoa), witnessed it all and has spent the last 12 years masterminding a plan to make Dom pay the ultimate price.

Dante’s plot will scatter Dom’s family from Los Angeles to the catacombs of Rome, from Brazil to London and from Portugal to Antarctica. New allies will be forged and old enemies will resurface. But everything changes when Dom discovers that his own 8-year-old son (Leo Abelo Perry, Black-ish) is the ultimate target of Dante’s vengeance.

Directed by Louis Leterrier (Clash of the Titans, The Incredible Hulk), Fast X stars returning cast members Michelle Rodriguez, Tyrese Gibson, Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, Nathalie Emmanuel, Jordana Brewster, Sung Kang, Jason Statham, John Cena and Scott Eastwood, with Oscar® winner Helen Mirren and Oscar® winner Charlize Theron.

The film also features an extraordinary new cast including Oscar® winner Brie Larson as Tess, a rogue representative from the Agency; Alan Richtson (Reacher) as Aimes, the new head of the Agency who doesn’t hold the same fondness for Dom’s crew as his predecessor, Mr. Nobody; Daniela Melchior (The Suicide Squad) as a Brazilian street racer with a powerful tie to Dom’s past; and legendary Oscar® winner Rita Moreno as Dom and Mia’s Abuelita Toretto.

Fast X is produced by Neal H. Moritz, Vin Diesel, Justin Lin, Jeff Kirschenbaum and Samantha Vincent. The executive producers are Joseph M. Caracciolo, Jr., David Cain, Chris Morgan, Amanda Lewis and Mark Bomback. www.thefastsaga.com

“Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” Premieres on Disney+ and Disney Jr May 4

By

Socalthrills Staff

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February 9, 2023

Disney+, Disney Junior, and Lucasfilm announced that “Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” will premiere on Disney+ and Disney Junior on May 4, 2023. Set during The High Republic era, the animated series follows Jedi younglings as they study the ways of the Force, explore the galaxy, help citizens and creatures in need, and learn valuable skills needed to become Jedi along the way.

Disney+ and Lucasfilm also released two stills from the series, which include Master Yoda, Jedi younglings Kai, Lys, and Nubs, and their friends Nash and RJ-83 on planet Tenoo. The second image shows Lys, Kai, and Nubs during a training sequence.

Produced by Lucasfilm for Disney+ and Disney Junior, “Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” is executive produced by Lucasfilm’s James Waugh, Jacqui Lopez, and Josh Rimes. Michael Olson (“Puppy Dog Pals”) is showrunner and executive producer; Elliot M. Bour (“Elena of Avalor”) is supervising director and co-producer; Jeannine Hodson (“Puppy Dog Pals”) is producer; and Lamont Magee (“Black Lightning”) is consulting producer.

“‘Star Wars’ transcends generations; fans of all ages deeply connect with its imaginative worlds, mythic stories, and unique characters,” says James Waugh, “Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” executive producer and Senior Vice President Franchise Content & Strategy at Lucasfilm. “When developing ‘Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures,’ the first ‘Star Wars’ series created for preschoolers, the creative team never stopped thinking about how this show may be a ‘youngling’s’ first step into a larger world and their first time experiencing the limitless potential of the ‘Star Wars’ galaxy.

The show’s characters, tone, and the life lessons woven throughout each episode were written just for them, and our talented team was committed to honoring the cinematic legacy while staying true to the expectations of parents for the youngest of audiences.”

Alyssa Sapire, Senior Vice President, Development, Series, Strategy, Disney Junior: “Our collaboration with Lucasfilm on this series is an amazing opportunity to introduce this universally cherished franchise to a younger generation. As an early entry point into ‘Star Wars,’ we have created a series with exciting new and familiar characters and storylines that highlight the values of compassion, teamwork, and friendship, which are important elements for all of our Disney Junior programming.”

“Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” stars Jamaal Avery, Jr. as Kai Brightstar, Juliet Donenfeld as Lys Solay, Dee Bradley Baker as Nubs, Emma Berman as Nash Durango, Jonathan Lipow as RJ-83, and Piotr Michael as Master Yoda.

“Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” will debut on Disney+ and Disney Junior on May 4, 2023.

Super Nintendo World Adds Dining and Shopping Experiences

By

Robbie Bulus

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February 9, 2023

When SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ opens at Universal Studios Hollywood on Friday, February 17, 2023, the innovative, immersive and highly-themed land will invite guests to enjoy a taste of the many exciting elements it has to offer, including Toadstool Cafe™ and 1-UP Factory™ retail store.

With a giant red-capped mushroom exterior and a lavish interior adorned with an array of larger-than-life mushroom décor and iconic green pipes, Toadstool Cafe is the land’s signature restaurant helmed by Chef Toad himself. This all-original restaurant will feature a carefully curated and eclectic menu perfected and prepared fresh daily by Chef Toad.

The full course menu begins with Starters and Salads and includes such delicacies as:

Toadstool Cheesy Garlic Knots

Super Mushroom Soup
Tomato Soup in Super Mushroom Bowl

Piranha Plant Caprese

Yoshi’s Favorite Fruit & Veggie Salad
Super Star Chicken Salad

For the Main Course, mouth-watering entrees include:

Mario Burger (Bacon, Mushroom & Cheese)

Luigi Burger (Pesto Grilled Chicken)
Fire Flower Spaghetti & Meatballs
Chef Toad Short Rib Special

For kids, ages 9 and under, a special Kids Meal menu includes:

Mario Mini Burger Adventure Set
Power-Up Spaghetti Marinara

Of course, no meal is complete without delectable desserts and Toadstool Cafe has several sweet tooth options from which to choose:

? Block Tiramisu

Mt. Beanpole Cake
Princess Peach Cupcake

Beverages include the Super Star Lemon Squash signature drink, in addition to juice, hot tea, fountain soda, premium bottled water, milk and freshly brewed coffee. Collectible drink sippers are also available for purchase.

The 1-UP Factory retail store offers an array of themed apparel, souvenirs and collectible merchandise created exclusively for the exciting launch of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD. These coveted limited-edition pieces were designed using specialty Grand Opening artwork and will only be available for purchase while quantities last.

Additional merchandise includes an extensive selection of themed attire, headwear and candy along with a selection of iconic character plush and toys, including Mario, Luigi, Yoshi, Princess Peach and Bowser.

The SUPER NINTENDO WORLD Power-Up Band™ is available for purchase in six recognizable character designs, including Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Yoshi, Toad and Princess Daisy. Choosing a particular character defines the Team guests will be a part of during their experience. These wearable wristbands sync with the free official Universal Studios Hollywood downloadable app and function as a complement to the land’s many interactive elements.

With the use of a Power-Up Band, guests can elevate the overall experience by competing against other teams to achieve the highest score throughout the day by collecting the most digital coins. To see who’s in the lead, guests can check their personal and team scores by linking the Power-Up Band to the app or by referring to the Checkpoint Screens located within the land.

The February 17 grand opening of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD marks its official arrival to the United States. The all-new land debuts as a visual spectacle of vibrant colors and architectural ingenuity located within a newly expanded area of Universal Studios Hollywood.

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD will feature the groundbreaking “Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge” ride, as well as many thrilling and interactive activities designed to engage the family within the captivating Mushroom Kingdom. Along with themed dining at Toadstool Cafe™ and shopping at the 1-UP Factory™ retail store, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD will be an inspiring addition to the world-famous Universal Studios Hollywood theme park.

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is conceived in partnership with Nintendo® and the visionaries at Universal Creative to deliver exhilarating entertainment with innovative technological achievements inspired by characters and video games that have appealed to Nintendo fans for generations.

For more information, guests can visit www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com

Garden Grove Strawberry Festival “Celebrating Kindness”

By

Socalthrills Staff

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February 8, 2023

The Garden Grove Strawberry Festival is proud to announce that it will be returning to the city once again, Memorial Day weekend, May 26th-May 29th, 2023. This annual event, which has been a favorite of residents and visitors for over 60 years, celebrates the city’s rich agricultural history and heritage, and it is dedicated to the strawberry.

The festival, which is organized by the Garden Grove Strawberry Festival Association, will feature a wide variety of activities, including a VIP pancake breakfast, live music, contests, vendors, a festive parade, and a Cake Cutting Ceremony. Visitors will also be able to enjoy carnival rides and attractions for all ages and much more.

This year, the festivals theme will be centered around kindness. The Strawberry Festival Association wanted to focus on the kindness people show one another. The festivals goal this year is to show that by embracing kindness, connection and togetherness can be fostered in order to build up our local communities.

An annual highlight of the festival, the Strawberry Festival Parade, will take place on Saturday, May 27th, and will feature Celebrities, Elected Officials, GGUSD and visiting bands, equestrian units and much more.

The Strawberry Festival Board is made up of a multitude of volunteers who are dedicated to providing the City of Garden Grove the best Festival yet.

2023 GGSFA Elected Officers include:
– Andrea Perez, Festival Association President with Taylor Perez as Associate
– Mark Mahoney, President Elect, Games/Permits/Carnival/Food/Nominations Chair; with Miles Mahoney as Associate;
– George Skelton, Treasurer, Donations Committee with Suki Carter serving as Associate
– Heidi Levesque, Secretary, Contests with Nicole Sate as Associate.

2023 GGSFA Directors and Associates include:
– Pat Catlin, Immediate Past President, Tents and Electrical, with Billy Catlin as Associate
– Dr. Dawn Miller, Special Childrens Day, with Denise Webster as Associate
– Laura Neuschafer, Opening Ceremony/Cake Cutting with Malu Mendoza as Associate
– Fred Ramirez, Office with Frederico Ramirez as Associate
– Debbie Mahoney, Scholarships, Associate TBD
– Sherri Larson, VIP Breakfast, Associate, TBD
– Sue Catlin, VIP Lunch with Joyce Claussen as Associate
– Ben Santos, Environmental (Grounds/Sanitation), with Tony Lopez as Associate
– Jeff Sanders, Parade Coordinator, with Kim Sanders as Associate
– Bill Gutaskus, Rentals/Carts/ATMs with Sue Gutaskus as Associate
– Patti Catlin, Commercial Vendor Booths, with Susanne Rangel as Associate
– Josh Lindsay, Staged Events, Associate, TBD
– Steve Sanders, Rides and Grounds with Ryan Sanders as Associate
– Scott Weimer, Parking/Fencing with Marilyn Tortolano as Associate
– Christine Ball, Insurance, with Robin Suarez serving as Associate
– Randy Arbgast, Civic Food Booths/Permits, with Donald Schlensker as Associate

“We are excited to host the Garden Grove Strawberry Festival again this May, over Memorial Day Weekend,” said Perez, “Our festival is a great opportunity for residents and visitors to come together to celebrate this long standing family tradition as well as the city’s rich agricultural heritage, which is such an important part of our history and community.”

Admission to the festival is FREE and open to the public. The festival will take place Memorial Day weekend, May 26th-29th, 2023 at the Village Green Park, located at the Village Green Park, at the corner of Euclid and Main Street, Garden Grove, 92840.

For more information on the Garden Grove Strawberry Festival, please visit the official website at www.strawberryfestival.org.

Disney Illusion Island Arrives July 28 on Nintendo Switch

By

Robbie Bulus

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February 8, 2023

Embark on a brand-new adventure with Disney Mickey Mouse’s triumphant return to video games – and this time he’s bringing a few friends! Today, Disney, in collaboration with developer Dlala Studios, revealed that Disney Illusion Island, an upcoming local cooperative 2D platform adventure video game for up to four players, will debut exclusively for Nintendo Switch on July 28, 2023. Additionally, pre-orders for Disney Illusion Island are available for $39.99 in Nintendo eShop and at retail, beginning today.

Fans are in for a treat with the upcoming launch of the whimsical cartoon-like experience offered by Disney Illusion Island,” said Luigi Priore, VP, Disney, Pixar and 20th Century Games. “We’re thrilled to work with developer Dlala Studios as they expand upon the Mickey & Friends world with a new and original storyline, engaging gameplay and delightful hand-drawn art style.

Join Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck and Goofy and set off on a perilous quest to explore the colorfully hand-crafted and yet mysterious island of Monoth in an escapade to recover three magical Tomes – powerful books used to protect the island.

Featuring the voice actors of Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Goofy and an original orchestral score, players can immerse themselves in a solo adventure or team up with up to three friends in local co-op to use special team skills such as Rope Drop, Leap Frog, and a heart gifting Hug to save the island. Discover rich biomes and never-before-seen environments, meet strange yet intriguing characters, and uncover hidden secrets galore!

But the journey will not be easy, and with intrigue afoot, not everything is what it seems on “Illusion Island”.

“Words cannot express how excited we are for players to embrace the Dlala-spin on this brand-new experience for Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck and Goofy,” said AJ Grand-Scrutton, Lead Developer, Dlala Studios. “It has been an incredible honor working on this title and we hope that Nintendo Switch players and Disney fans worldwide love playing it as much as we’ve loved creating it.”

Disney Illusion Island will be available for $39.99 and will debut worldwide exclusively for Nintendo Switch on July 28, 2023.

Celebrate Charlie Brown Day on February 12

By

Robbie Bulus

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February 8, 2023

On Sunday, February 12^th, Knott’s is celebrating Good Ol’ Charlie Brown by hosting a Charlie Brown Day during their PEANUTS Celebration. The park invites guests during this special time of year to join in on all the excitement as the PEANUTS gang takes over.

To show everyone’s favorite underdog just how special he is, attendees will be encouraged to pay homage to Charlie Brown by sporting his signature bright yellow zig-zag striped tee, black shorts, and red baseball cap outfit.

At 12:30pm on the Calico Mine Stage, the PEANUTS characters will perform the musical game show It’s Your Life, Charlie Brown, with the loveable title character getting the surprise of his life. After the show, all guests dressed as Charlie Brown will be invited to gather around the stage for a photo opportunity posing alongside the boy of the hour.

All guests in attendance will also receive a button commemorating Charlie Brown Day, while supplies last. Knott’s PEANUTS Celebration takes place daily January 28 through February 26.

Here are all the details:

Sunday, February 12^th, with a special photo opportunity occurring after the 12:30pm Calico Mine Stage show.

Knott’s Berry Farm – 8039 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA 90620

Titanic 25th anniversary coming to theaters in 3D 4K HDR

By

Socalthrills Staff

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February 8, 2023

In celebration of its 25th anniversary, a remastered version of James Cameron’s multi-Academy Award-winning “Titanic” will be re-released to theaters in 3D 4K HDR and high-frame rate. With a cast headed by Oscar winners Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet, the film is an epic, action-packed romance set against the ill-fated maiden voyage of the “unsinkable” Titanic, at the time, the largest moving object ever built.

FILM OPENS IN THEATERS FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10

“Titanic” won a record 11 Academy Awards® including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Cinematography, Best Film Editing, Best Art Direction-Set Direction, Best Costume Design, Best Original Dramatic Score, Best Original Song, Best Sound, Best Sound Effects Editing and Best Visual Effects. Upon its initial release in 1997, the film became the #1 all-time global box office champ and is currently the third highest grossing film worldwide.

Watch the new Featurette:

Paramount Pictures and 20th Century Studios present A Lightstorm Entertainment Production, “Titanic,” starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Kate Winslet, Billy Zane, Kathy Bates, Frances Fisher, Bernard Hill, Jonathan Hyde, Danny Nucci, Gloria Stuart, David Warner, Victor Garber and Bill Paxton. Written and Directed by James Cameron, the film was Produced by Cameron and Jon Landau, with Rae Sanchini serving as Executive Producer.

DCA Food and Wine Festival 2023 Highlights & Info

By

Socalthrills Staff

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February 7, 2023

Whether you’re a seasoned home gourmet or simply eager to glean pro tips and tricks, the Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival serves up heaping helpings of culinary fun for all. Here’s a look at highlights for this year’s festivities:

Festival Experiences

Festival Marketplaces – Outdoor kiosks offer an assortment of mouthwatering bites, wine, beer and specialty beverages. See the list of booths here.
Culinary Demonstrations – Local, visiting and Disney chefs prepare a few of their favorite recipes on stage––available Friday through Sunday!
Cocktails @ Sonoma Terrace hosted by CORKCICLE® – Enjoy an expanded menu of craft brews, signature cocktails, savory snacks and more.
Family Programming – Throughout the duration of the festival, find something fun for everyone in the family including special activity zones and demonstrations.
Live Music – Groove to toe-tappin’ musical performances presenting the perfect side dish to complement the bon viveur vibe.
Soarin’ Over California – See the state’s natural and manmade wonders as this California classic returns for a limited time!

Bookable Experiences

Carthay Circle Winemaker Receptions – Enjoy hand-selected California wines, masterfully paired with an array of small plates.
- GoGi Wines (with Kurt Russell)
  Friday, March 10, 2023
  6:30 PM
  $150 per person—plus tax and gratuitiesMcBride Sisters Wine Co. (with Nicole Rabago & Amy Butler)
  Friday, March 31, 2023
  6:30 PM
  $150 per person—plus tax and gratuitiesFess Parker Winery
  Friday, April 14, 2023
  6:30 PM
  $150 per person—plus tax and gratuities
Wine, Beer and Mixology Education & Tasting Seminars – Discover something special when sommeliers, brew masters and mixologists divulge their industry expertise during these fascinating 45-minute sessions. See the full list and dates here.
Hotels Education and Tasting Seminars, Winemaker Reception & Mixology Class Experiences – Enjoy special tasting seminars, a Winemaker Reception and Trader Sam’s Tiki Mixology Class.
- Trader Sam’s Tiki Mixology Seminar
  Learn to make the HippopotoMai-Tai, one of the legendary libations served at Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar. Then, sample sweet-and-spicy snacks around the outdoor fireplace. Be sure to take home a tiki mug as a souvenir of your adventure!Disneyland Hotel
  Monday, March 6 & Monday, April 10
  $159 per person—plus tax and gratuitiesDisney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa Food and Wine Experience
  Meet the chefs, sommeliers and art historians from Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa as you sip wines paired with specially crafted plates at the venerable Hearthstone Lounge— featuring selections and experts from Laurent-Perrier, Stag’s Leap Winery, Miner Family Wines, Darioush, Clos Du Val, Heitz Cellars and ZD Wines.Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
  Friday, April 21
  $225 per person—plus tax and gratuities

Festival Shopping

Festival Merchandise – Select shops and kiosks feature apparel, gifts, souvenirs, signed art and Festival Gift Cards.

The foodie fun doesn’t end when you leave Disney California Adventure Park! Enjoy special crafts, artist signings and more at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort and the Downtown Disney District.

More info coming soon!

‘Star Wars: The Mandalorian’ To Make Broadcast Television Debut

By

Robbie Bulus

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February 7, 2023

In celebration of Disney+ and Lucasfilm’s highly anticipated return to Mandalore, The Walt Disney Company will offer viewers the opportunity to experience the episode that started it all, when the series premiere of “Star Wars: The Mandalorian” makes its broadcast debut simultaneously across ABC, Freeform and FX. The three networks will air “Chapter 1: The Mandalorian” on Feb. 24 (8:00-9:00 p.m. EST/PST).

“Chapter 1: The Mandalorian”

In the lawless aftermath of the collapse of the Galactic Empire, an armored bounty hunter known only as the Mandalorian takes on a well-paying yet cryptic assignment.

Where to watch:

ABC/FREEFORM/FX

Friday, Feb. 24, 8:00-9:00 p.m. EST/PST

Disney+

Available to stream now. Season three is available to stream beginning Wednesday, March 1.

About “Star Wars: The Mandalorian”

After the stories of Jango and Boba Fett, another warrior emerges in the Star Wars universe. “The Mandalorian” is set after the fall of the Empire and before the emergence of the First Order. We follow the travails of a lone gunfighter in the outer reaches of the galaxy, far from the authority of the New Republic.

About “Star Wars: The Mandalorian” Season Three

The journeys of the Mandalorian through the Star Wars galaxy continue. Once a lone bounty hunter, Din Djarin has reunited with Grogu. Meanwhile, the New Republic struggles to lead the galaxy away from its dark history. The Mandalorian will cross paths with old allies and make new enemies as he and Grogu continue their journey together.

The series stars Pedro Pascal, Katee Sackhoff, Carl Weathers, Amy Sedaris, Emily Swallow and Giancarlo Esposito.

The directors of the eight-episode season three include Rick Famuyiwa, Rachel Morrison, Lee Isaac Chung, Carl Weathers, Peter Ramsey and Bryce Dallas Howard.

Jon Favreau is the showrunner/head writer and serves as an executive producer along with Dave Filoni, Rick Famuyiwa, Kathleen Kennedy and Colin Wilson. Karen Gilchrist and Carrie Beck are co-executive producers.

Review: The Lion King Returns to Pantages Theatre

By

Russell Tom

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February 6, 2023

The Lion King returning home to the Pantages Theater in Hollywood, CA feels like a welcoming with open arms and grateful tears as the pinnacle Disney theatrical production celebrates 25 years since its initial debut. While the company is internal turmoil, the show is a glimmering example of it’s heyday as a flagship entertainment giant.

A testament of longevity to it’s relevant story and masterful creativity as a cleanse from the company’s recent modernization to revitalize animated triumphs into live-action rehashing of proven successes. Much of the original animated version is preserved musically and visually in this fan-favorite retelling of the Shakespearean Hamlet about a prince growing into adult and finding redemption before becoming king.

Encased in a time capsule storytelling as depicted live on stage with live performers in vibrant costumes and intricate body movement. Refreshing lack of modern effects like digital projections that would have otherwise taken away from the show’s originality in design and execution.

Witnessing art coming to life in uninterrupted segments of transition in time and space. Interpreted with puppetry from shadows to small scale model figures lending itself the vast depiction of wide open landscapes. Shadow puppets now seen as a precursor to digital projections; simple, elegant, and profound.

But most importantly, story-driven. These moments may feel slow to an audience that are entertained by modern flashy and loud distractions of short attention spans. All the more appreciated with the costume headpieces of the main characters on display in the lobby. Seeing the performers manipulate their animal counterparts still leaves wonder behind in the show’s aftermath.

Crown jewels in songwriting hold very strong in numbers made exclusive to the show. “Endless Night” sees a son lost in time and turmoil over a childhood trauma that changes the trajectory of his life. “They Live in You” and its subsequent reprise “He Lives in You” sees our main character, Simba, coming to terms in a tear-jerking moment as a ghostly encounter bonding with his father spiritually speaking words of encouragement from beyond the grave.

These two highlights truly play into heart of the story. Meanwhile the power of “Circle of Life” with its grand opening number making its way through the audience seating and majesty of “One by One” with it’s celebration of life and heritage bring out the soul of the story and characters.

The Lion King is most certainly a multigenerational experience. Children will enjoy the carefree attitude of the African savannah, danger of the Elephant Graveyard, and stumble into the antics of friends like Timon, the meerkat, and Pumbaa, the wild boar. Adults, especially those who have grown up with the show, will find the second act more relevant and closer to home than ever before.

The humor relies more on the context of the world the show sets itself in rather than over-reliance on pop culture references which can become quickly stale until something new comes around drawing massive social media attention.

New and old audience members will want to flock, stampede, and share the moment in this main stable of Broadway before the shifting winds gracefully sends away this grand spectacle back into the wind. The Lion King at the Pantages Theatre is now playing on select dates and times until March 26, 2023.

Socalthrills.com

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