Legoland CA Kicks off 2023 with Ninjago Weekends

By

-

January 7, 2023

It’s time to start your Spinjitzu training, master the power of the elements and practice your ninja moves! LEGO^® NINJAGO^® Weekends at LEGOLAND^®California Resort officially kick-off January 21 – February 20, in celebration of the opening of the Park’s new LEGO^® NINJAGO^® Training Camp. LEGO^® NINJAGO Weekends allow guests to fully immerse themselves into the NINJAGO universe and enjoy fun-filled activities, shows and entertainment.

LEGO NINJAGO Training Camp offers guests the ultimate ninja training test. The Park’s newest addition features interactive play areas filled with slides, obstacles and even Master Wu’s sailing ship, giving guests of all ages the chance to test their balance, agility and strength. The new play area is not only ADA compliant but ADA inclusive and offers guests wheelchair access to elevated platforms, plus sound and interactive elements to support sensory play at appropriate heights.

This exclusive event on weekends invites guests to explore LEGO^® NINJAGO^® World, the Imagination Zone, and the lawn in Miniland U.S.A featuring entertainment, attractions and excitement, including:

Shows

School of Spinjitzu: Are you ready to kick, chop, spin, and balance like a ninja? Bring your best moves to this active training-style show where you become a “ninja”
Ceremony of the Elements: Join Master Wu and your favorite NINJAGO ninjas to test your skills and celebrate in the final NINJAGO show of the day
Taiko Drummers: Enjoy the live upbeat sounds from the Taiko Drummers group!

Activities

Tranquility Kid’s Yoga: Relax, stretch, and channel your inner zen with Kid’s Yoga at the Elemental Stage
Meet and greet LEGO NINJAGO characters: Come meet your favorite NINJAGO LEGO characters including Kai, Jay, Nya and the newest Resort LEGO character, Master Wu
Golden Ninja Scavenger Hunt: The NINJAGO ninja’s golden weapons have gone missing from their dojo! Help find each golden weapon scattered across NINJAGO World and Imagination Zone and take a photo of each. Receive a NINJAGO reward when completed!
Serpentine Build: Honor the Venomari Tribe and unite with fellow serpentine members by participating in a LEGO snake build!

LEGO NINJAGO Weekends is included in the price of admission along with everything that LEGOLAND^® has to offer. Guests can purchase tickets and reserve their spot through LEGOLAND California’s reservation system for their desired park visit. After a day of fun, have a ninja sleepover at one of the NINJAGO themed hotel rooms at the onsite LEGOLAND Hotel, located right next to the park entrance. For more Resort information, operating schedule and to make reservations, visit: www.legoland.com/california.

Amazon and Disney team up to launch Hey Disney!

By

Socalthrills Staff

-

January 7, 2023

You’ll soon be able to experience the magic of Disney in a new way—both at home and in select Disney Resort hotel rooms. The Hey Disney! experience launches later this year, but Amazon offered the public the first sneak peek during a live demonstration at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas.

Info on This Page:

Hey Disney! is a first-of-its-kind voice assistant that will give customers access to a wide range of Disney magic through Echo devices at home and as a complimentary service at select Disney Resorts hotels. Disney built the experience using the Alexa Custom Assistant, a voice AI foundation upon which the company could easily create its own custom voice assistant that coexists with Alexa. This new voice assistant, termed the “Disney Magical Companion,” is the voice of Hey Disney!

The service will be available for purchase in the U.S. in the coming months. Customers who have purchased and enabled it can say, “Hey Disney!”—a new wake word Amazon created—to enjoy experiences featuring more than 20 Disney, Pixar, and Star Wars characters. Customers can interact with these fan-favorites—like Mickey Mouse, Dory from Finding Nemo, and Olaf from Frozen—to hear an array of jokes, play trivia, listen to soundscapes, and more.

How does Hey Disney! work?

Customers will access the service through Echo smart speakers at home and Disney Resort hotel rooms. Guests staying in select Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort hotels will be able to ask questions about park hours, request fresh towels, and access other helpful features.

Hey Disney! will also feature support for Disney’s MagicBand+, the smart and interactive wearable device that visitors use at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort to interact with shows, enter the park, redeem Lightning Lane access, and more. For example, when you answer trivia questions, MagicBand+ transforms into a game show-style buzzer and reacts with lights and vibrations. It will even light up and buzz when your alarm or timer goes off.

An entirely new experience for Disney fans

“As a first-of-its-kind voice assistant, Hey Disney! continues Disney’s long tradition of using technology to provide the coolest, most convenient experiences to make your visit better,” said Dan Soto, Disney’s vice president of technology and digital. “We’re always looking for new ways to open the door to even more stories, making them richer, more immersive, and forever memorable to guests and fans, whether they are at home or visiting Disney Parks. We can’t wait for fans and families to discover all the surprising and delightful interactions we’ve built into this experience.”

If you ask Hey Disney! for the weather, Olaf from Frozen might tell you it’s cold out. Or if you’re in the mood to cook a nice meal, you can ask Hey Disney! to play the soundscape from Ratatouille.

Dana Alia, a senior manager on the Alexa team, said Disney wanted to delight fans in a new way. “Disney was really focused on making something that brings you into their resort experience in a way that hadn’t been done before,” she said.

The goal to create a new, unique experience also came with challenges. “In a lot of collaborations, there’s a template. You’ve done something similar before,” said Erin Egan, who leads the collaboration for Amazon. “In this case, we were both starting from blank. This added complexity but meant we had the freedom to define it.”

An innovation in storytelling

Aaron Rubenson, a vice president of Alexa, said customer education was another important challenge. “One of the fun areas for innovation was imagining how we were going to teach people about the feature,” he said.

His team helped Disney build an introduction that guides fans and helps them get started. The team added various hints for users as they interact with Hey Disney!, like prompts to hear jokes or play trivia. The hints help to make sure customers at home and in the resort get the most out of the experience.

“Disney is the master storyteller, and its stories are so powerful for so many people,” Rubenson said. “Now people can keep talking to a character and continue with the storyline when they go back to their room at the end of the day—or when they go home when the vacation is over. It’s gratifying to imagine that we’re a part of literally bringing that magic home.”

Disney began installing Echo family devices with Hey Disney! in limited hotel rooms at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. Hey Disney! will also be available for customers to purchase soon in the U.S. in the Alexa Skills Store or included with an Amazon Kids+ subscription in the coming months.

New Funko Disney100 Collection Coming soon

By

Robbie Bulus

-

January 6, 2023

Bring a piece of Disney home with the Walt Disney Company’s 100th anniversary collection from Funko. Check out some of the new collection below and pre-order at Amazon and other retailers.

POP Moments: Lion King- Hakuna Matata $29.96

Let your worries melt away with Pop! Simba, Pop! Pumba, and Pop! Timon. Celebrate Disney’s 100th Anniversary by completing your The Lion King collection with this exclusive Pop! Hakuna Matata Moment, featuring your favorite carefree characters as they stroll across a tree trunk bridge. Vinyl figure is approximately 6.4-inches tall. Find more Funko products at Walmart.

POP Disney: D100- Mickey(split color) $14.90

It sure is swell to join Pop! Mickey Mouse in a celebration. This exclusive Pop! Mickey Mouse is beside himself with joy to celebrate the Walt Disney Company’s 100th anniversary. One half of this special-edition Pop! Mickey Mouse is in black and white, while the other half is in full color. Expand your Disney Classics collection with all of Mickey Mouse’s friends. Vinyl figure is approximately 3.79-inches tall. Find more Funko products at Hot Topic

POP Disney: D100- Goofy(Vintage)

Gawrsh! Exclusive Pop! Goofy wants to join you for some celebratory fun. He’s looking quite dapper in his original iteration, in black and white. He’s also ready to celebrate the Walt Disney Company’s 100th anniversary. Expand your Disney Classics collection with all of Goofy’s friends. Vinyl figure is approximately 4.89-inches tall.

POP Icons: D100- Walt w/drawing $11.99

Bring a piece of Disney home with the man, the mouse, and the moment that started it all. Welcome Walt Disney himself into your home with Pop! Walt with Drawing. This charming greyscale Pop! captures the wonder of imagination with a sketch of Steamboat Willie held in Pop! Walt’s hands. Vinyl figure is approximately 4-inches tall. Get it here.

POP Disney: D100- Oswald w/CH

Hop on over and meet the first character created by Walt Disney, Pop! Oswald! Celebrate Disney’s 100th Anniversary by welcoming Pop! Oswald the Lucky Rabbit into your home! Reunite this rabbit with the rest of his friends in your Disney Classics collection. There’s a 1 in 6 chance you may find the chase of Pop! Oswald with top hat and cane. Vinyl figures are approximately 3.25 and 4-inches tall. Chase variants are shipped at random. Receiving a chase with purchase is not guaranteed.

POP Art Cover: D100- Oswald $19.99

Hop on over and meet the first character created by Walt Disney, Pop! Oswald! Celebrate Disney’s 100th Anniversary by welcoming Pop! Oswald the Lucky Rabbit into your home with this Pop! Art Cover featuring the black, white, and blue cartoon art for Walt Disney’s Oswald the Lucky Rabbit in Rival Romeos! Reunite this rabbit with the rest of his friends in your Disney Classics collection. Vinyl figure is approximately 4.15-inches tall. Approximate dimensions of protective case: 8.15” W x 7.75 ”H x 3.25” D. Get it here.

Vinyl SODA: Disney- Oswald w/CH

Hop on over and meet the first character created by Walt Disney, Oswald! Reunite this rabbit with the rest of his friends in your Disney Classics collection. Only 15,000 of this collectible were made! There’s a 1 in 6 chance you may find the chase of black and white Oswald. Vinyl figures are approximately 3.9-inches tall. Chase variants are shipped at random. Receiving a chase with purchase is not guaranteed.

Theatre Review: Mean Girls

By

Cori Graham

-

January 6, 2023

This show is SO FETCH! If you want to sit with Regina George, it’s important to remember that you can only wear a ponytail once a week, you can only wear track pants on Fridays, and most notably, on Wednesdays, we wear pink. Now that you have been reminded of the rules, get dressed and come to the Hollywood Pantages to see Mean Girls.

Fans of the 2004 film Mean Girls will get to see their favorite characters and hear their favorite one-liners. The show opens with a break in the 4th wall from Janice Sarkisian and Damian Hubbard letting you know that you are about to be told a cautionary tale: The tale of Cady Heron, a girl who was raised by Biologists in Kenya and brought to complete her last two years of High School in Illinois. Cady’s goal for moving to Illinois is to be “socialized” and make friends that aren’t animals, but she quickly learns that the savannah has a lot more in common with an American high school than she expected.

Janice and Damian quickly adopt Cady to be friends with them and try to help her find which group she will ultimately fit in best. However, an age-old feud between Janice and North Shore High School queen bee Regina George inspires Janice to get Cady to spy on Regina and her group of “Plastics” by pretending to befriend them. Cady joins the plastics with little incident and finds herself sitting with Regina George, Gretchen Wieners, and Karen Smith at lunch.

Cady starts falling for Aaron Samuels, a boy in her Calculus class who is Regina’s ex-boyfriend. Soon, Cady is deep in a long con and starts to be unable to separate the spy-work from reality as she slowly begins to replace Regina George in the plastics at the expense of her other relationships. Cady quickly learns a critical lesson in being authentic and how far you can go by just being nice.

This musical was just delightful. The story framed in the relationships discussed in Rosalind Wiseman’s book, “Queen Bees & Wannabes” written for film and stage by Tina Fey of SNL fame, translates well into a stage musical. The songs are imaginative and funny; “Meet the Plastics” is a hilarious introduction to Regina, Gretchen, and Karen. The song “Stupid With Love” which had an African vibe to the music, harkening back to Cady’s feeling of home. “What’s Wrong with Me?” is a great recurring theme that, despite the sad song title, gathers laughs each time.

There are clearly a few stand out performers on this tour. Lindsay Heather Pearce (Janis Sarkisian), whose vocal chops are matched with perfectly delivered lines and comedic timing, has you laughing almost every time she comes on stage. Pearce’s onstage dynamic with Eric Huffman (Damian Hubbard) has amazing chemistry. They are both perfect for these roles and the audience definitely agreed, with roaring applause after their scenes, for their curtain call, and especially after Janice’s song “I’d Rather Be Me”. Eric Huffman’s tap number in “Stop” was an absolute delight.

English Bernhardt (Cady Heron) is an amazing vocalist, I found myself wondering if we would see her as Elphaba in Wicked in the future…but that’s not why we are here. Her performance as Cady Heron was wonderful not only in her vocals, but in her ability to quickly build a critical relationship with the audience where we felt for her despite some of the not-so-nice things she found herself doing.

Morgan Ashley Bryant was HILARIOUS as Karen, the least intelligent of the Plastics—her performance in “Sexy” was just full of silly lines, great gags, and phenomenal vocals. She ensured that Karen is (somehow) a feminist icon. Adante Carter was a very endearing Aaron Samuels, playing the part of Cady’s love interest in a way that pulled the audience into their tumultuous relationship.

The set design was interesting, with a set that is about 75% digital, they were able to create multiple scenes with the backdrop barely moving except to bring out a practical set piece. This approach initially felt like it could look amateur, like a high school play (which it technically is a play about high school, so it works), but you start to forget about the digital screen backdrop quickly as it seamlessly creates dynamic scenes for the characters to move in and out.

Conductor Chris Kong is visible below the stage, which was a nice change as it feels more shows are leaning toward an onstage orchestra. He did a great job maintaining the comedic timing and pacing of the show.

Overall, if you have ever been high school age, or are approaching those years yourself, this is a great cautionary tale to see for yourself. The stage format gave Tina Fey the ability to add a little more heart and message to the show. It was heartwarming, funny, and fun…an absolute must-see.

Mean Girls is now playing at Hollywood Pantages until January 29. Get your tickets here or by calling the box office for more info. Location: 6233 Hollywood Blvd. (½ block East of Hollywood & Vine) Phone: (323) 468-1770.

Mean Girls the Musical will also play at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Orange County from March 7 – 19, 2023. Tickets on sale at scfta.org.

‘World of Color – ONE’ Details at DCA Debuting Jan. 27

By

Socalthrills Staff

-

January 5, 2023

As part of the Disney100 celebration at the Disneyland Resort, the new nighttime spectacular “World of Color – ONE” will debut at Disney California Adventure park on Jan. 27! With an inspiring message that illustrates the storytelling legacy Walt Disney began a century ago, this remarkable production by Disney Live Entertainment is just one of many new experiences and special offerings coming to the resort in honor of The Walt Disney Company’s 100^th anniversary in 2023 – including the debut of another all-new nighttime spectacular, “Wondrous Journeys” at Disneyland park.

Here is more about the powerful story in “World of Color – ONE” and share how guests can experience the show when it debuts. First, here’s a sneak peek!

“World of Color – ONE” celebrates how a single action, like a drop of water, creates a ripple that can grow into a wave of change. Guests will discover how it only takes one action to make an impact on the people in our lives and the world around us, just as one man – Walt Disney – started the wave that has continued to grow and inspire people around the globe for 100 years.

World of Color

The spectacular features songs and stories of some of the most courageous, loving and inspiring characters who dared to be wavemakers and change the world. In fact, this is the first Disneyland Resort nighttime spectacular to feature characters, music and moments from Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar Animation Studios, the Avengers, and Star Wars in the same production. Moments from favorite films such as “The Lion King,” “Moana,” “Coco,” “Mulan,” “Soul,” and others emerge on an immense water screen that can span up to 380 feet across.

World of Color

This spectrum of stories is set to a beautiful musical score comprised of 18 different compositions, including a new, original song “Start a Wave,” which was written by GRAMMY nominated artist Cody Fry and features lead vocals performed by singer-songwriter and actress Loren Allred.

World of Color

In addition to being a driving metaphor in the story of “World of Color – ONE,” water plays a starring role in transforming Paradise Bay during the show. Each musical moment is brought to life by mist screens and 1,200 dancing fountains, combined with brilliant lighting, projection, laser, fog and flame effects. And guests can even wear their MagicBand+ to experience another dimension of storytelling to “World of Color – ONE”! Their band will enhance the effects with synchronized dancing lights and vibrations.

World of Color

This immersive journey builds to an emotional and uplifting finale that highlights how, when we come together and combine our efforts, many drops can become an ocean. Guests will walk away feeling inspired to start a ripple of their own and be the one to make a wave for the future.

When “World of Color – ONE” debuts, guests will be able to access viewing areas for the show through a virtual queue system available only via the Disneyland app.* Distribution for the complimentary virtual queue will begin at noon, daily (subject to availability), and is available for guests who have entered Disney California Adventure park for the day or have entered Disneyland park with a Park Hopper ticket.**

On nights when there are multiple showtimes, distribution for additional showtimes will begin immediately after distribution for the first showtime has ended. If guests have obtained a virtual queue selection, they will enter their designated viewing area for their designated show time via one of the two marked entrance points (Blue or Yellow) approximately 30-45 minutes before the show begins. How-to details on the virtual queue system are available at Disneyland.com.

If the virtual queue reaches capacity, check in with a cast member at the Paradise Bay viewing area shortly before “World of Color – ONE” begins for walk-up viewing options. Joining the virtual queue is not required, but it is highly recommended as walk-up viewing options for each performance are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Magical Walt Disney World Special Offers for 2023!

By

Robbie Bulus

-

January 5, 2023

This Spring and Summer, you can stay in the magic with special offers at Walt Disney World Resort.

Stay in the magic with this special offer—and make sweet summer memories to savor!*

You can get up to a $750* (or more see details below) Disney Dining Promo Card when you purchase a non-discounted 5-night, 4-day vacation package that includes a room at a select Disney Deluxe Resort or Disney Deluxe Villa Resort and theme park ticket(s).

This offer is valid for arrivals most nights July 1 to July 10, 2023 and August 1 to September 14, 2023. A lower-value Disney Dining Promo Card may also be available when you purchase this package during other select summer arrival dates. Visit the Offers Page for the full offer details.

Stay in the magic with this special offer—and spring into fun or make sweet summer memories at Walt Disney World Resort.

You can save on rooms at select Disney Resort hotels:

Save up to 25% on stays most nights April 10 through July 10, 2023
Save up to 20% on stays most nights March 1 through March 31, 2023

There’s magic all around at the Walt Disney World Resort. And you can enjoy even more enchantment with special benefits for Guests of Disney Resort hotels—including early entry to the theme parks 30 minutes before regular park opening to experience select attractions (with valid park admission and a theme park reservation).

This offer is valid for select Disney Resort hotels. Visit the Offers Page for the full offer details.

Ready to book? Click here for a FREE QUOTE!

*The number of packages available for this offer is limited. Everyone in the same room must be on the same package. Advance reservations are required. Minimum 4 day theme park ticket required. Minimum 4-night length of stay required.

Tickets are valid beginning on date of check-in and must be used within a limited number of days, depending on length of ticket. Visit disneydestinationstickets.com/usage for details. $750 Disney Dining Promo Card for stays at select Disney Deluxe and Deluxe Villa Resorts.

The value of the Disney Dining Promo Card is determined by Disney Resort hotel and length of stay. One Disney Dining Promo Card per room—valid for packages that include up to $1,000 on a Disney Dining Promo Card. If a package includes more than $1,000 on a Disney Dining Promo Card, the value will be distributed across more than one Disney Dining Promo Card.

Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion. Offer excludes the following room types: campsites, 3-bedroom villas, and Cabins at Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. Gratuities are not included. To visit the theme parks, theme park reservations AND the tickets included in this package are required for the same park on the same date for each person in your party ages 3 and up. Theme park reservations are limited and subject to availability. View the theme park reservation availability calendar.

National Geographic Expeditions Announces 2024 Trips

By

Robbie Bulus

-

January 4, 2023

National Geographic Expeditions announces its full lineup of Signature Land trips, River Cruises and Private Expeditions with unforgettable experiences for travelers around the world in 2024.

Travelers will have their pick of experiences, from a safari in Tanzania to an immersion in the timeless culture of Japan. Sail the Rhine on a world-class ship, exploring half-timbered villages and rolling wine country on a summertime sail through four countries. Or, get a close-up look at conservation in Costa Rica, meeting scientists at three research stations while exploring the cloud forest, wetlands, volcanoes, and coastal mangroves.

Bookings for 2024 Signature Land trips, River Cruises and Private Expedition itineraries open to the public on Jan. 12. Bookings open early for the following travelers:

Jan. 6 – Lifelong Explorers
Jan. 10 – Past National Geographic Expeditions Guests
Jan. 11 – Disney Vacation Club Members, Golden Oak Residents and Club 33 members
Jan. 12 – Bookings open for general public

Travelers interested in booking a vacation in 2024 with National Geographic Expeditions can also save with an early booking offer! Book before April 7, 2023 and save $400 per person on all available North America Signature Land departures and $500 per person on all available International Signature Land departures for travel between Jan. 2024 and June 2024. Travelers can also save $750 per person on all available 2024 River Cruise departures, excluding the Jordan Extension and Petra Extension itineraries.

If you are interested in traveling with National Geographic Expeditions, including those who are eligible for early booking, contact us by clicking here.

The Los Angeles Zoo Celebrates Lunar New Year

By

Socalthrills Staff

-

January 4, 2023

The Los Angeles Zoo celebrates Lunar New Year at L.A. Zoo Lights from Jan. 6 through Jan. 22, 2023, with colorful, family-friendly festivities marking the Year of the Rabbit on the lunar calendar. Lunar New Year is observed by numerous cultures, including Chinese, Vietnamese, and Korean, and is celebrated widely in Los Angeles’ diverse communities. Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night, Jan. 6-22, the Zoo presents a full lineup of activities included with L.A. Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow.

Celebrate the year of the rabbit with a glow-in-the-dark dragon dance parade, lion dance show, kung fu showcase and acrobatics, fan dancers, calligraphy, a Wall of Well Wishes, food trucks, and more. L.A. Zoo Lights is a wildlife-centric LED lights display showcases over 30 of the Zoo’s most beloved animals including giraffes, elephants, orangutans, lemurs, koalas, and condors, along with other charismatic inhabitants. The 60- to 90-minute stroll through L.A. Zoo Lights takes guests through desert, garden, and jungle landscapes filled with larger-than-life glowing sculptures, magical lights, and immersive exhibits in a dazzling display of light and color.

There are several animated and interactive displays and photo opportunities for guests to enjoy. Tickets to L.A. Zoo Lights start at $32 for children (2-12) and $39 for adults (13+). All ages welcome. Please visit https://www.lazoo.org/lunar to learn more about the celebration, including a full schedule of events.

On Thursday, Jan. 12, the L.A. Zoo will host a Lunar New Year themed happy hour from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Guests can enjoy tasty nibbles like Vegetable Lo Mein, Pork Dumplings, Spring Rolls, Soy Braised Chicken., Lucky Mandarin Orange Crunch Salad, and traditional Lunar New Year almond cookies. This evening will include a photo booth and very special giant river otter talk and feeding exclusively for happy hour guests. Tickets are on sale now through January 11, for $100 and include express entry into L.A. Zoo Lights. Must be 21+.

To learn more and to purchase tickets, please visit www.lazoo.org/zoolights.

IMAX Enhanced to Expand Offerings on Disney+

By

Robbie Bulus

-

January 4, 2023

Disney Streaming, IMAX Corporation, and DTS, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Xperi Inc., has announced that Disney+ subscribers using select devices will have a new way to experience select films from the Marvel Cinematic Universe and more with an expansion of IMAX Enhanced technology on Disney+ coming in 2023.

In addition to IMAX’s exclusive expanded aspect ratio, which launched on Disney+ in November 2021, IMAX signature sound by DTS will enable an elevated end-to-end experience specially calibrated to provide fans at home with IMAX-quality picture and sound. Select best-in-class device manufacturers will support IMAX signature sound by DTS at launch, including IMAX Enhanced certified TVs from manufacturers like Sony and Hisense. Additionally, owners of certified AV receivers from manufacturers like Denon, Marantz, and JBL will also be able to enjoy the experience at launch. IMAX’s expanded aspect ratio, which delivers 1:90:1 and offers up to 26% more picture for select sequences, is currently available for supported titles across all Disney+ supported devices at no additional cost or equipment.

“We’re excited to roll out the next evolution of IMAX Enhanced technology on Disney+ in the coming year,” said Jerrell Jimerson, Executive Vice President of Product, Disney Streaming. “This unique collaboration extends our long-standing relationship between Disney and IMAX and we look forward to delivering this new immersive audio experience alongside premium playback quality for current and future titles to our audiences around the world.”

“We’re thrilled to bring audiences an even greater cinematic experience in the home and beyond as we roll out the next phase of IMAX Enhanced on Disney+,” said Vikram Arumilli, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Streaming and Consumer Technology, IMAX Corporation.” We can’t wait for fans to experience more of our cutting-edge, unparalleled sight and sound advancements across the entire IMAX Enhanced collection on Disney+, with more titles soon to come.”

“Fan response to the launch of IMAX Enhanced titles on Disney+ has been overwhelmingly positive, giving viewers what they have been asking for – stunning images at home as intended by the incredible teams behind some of the world’s most popular films,” said Bill Neighbors, Chief Content Officer at Xperi. “Now, fans will be able to get the full experience of IMAX Enhanced with the addition of IMAX Enhanced signature sound by DTS, exclusively for those titles.”

IMAX is the world’s most immersive canvas for filmmakers to bring their visions to audiences around the globe. With IMAX’s exclusive expanded aspect ratio, filmmakers can create a more immersive experience in theaters and now in the home, allowing audiences to see more of the action. Marvel fans have long called for more of the IMAX experience at home, and now with certain IMAX Enhanced features on Disney+, subscribers get what they have been waiting for – additional image at home as intended by the incredible teams behind some of the world’s most popular films.

With IMAX Enhanced, IMAX and technology partner DTS enable content that can be experienced in-home and beyond with the highest fidelity, ensuring that filmmakers’ creative intent is fully optimized for an IMAX-quality presentation. Disney+ is the first major streaming service to elevate the at-home viewing experience with IMAX Enhanced, giving its subscribers new ways to re-experience the Marvel Cinematic Universe and beyond.

This announcement is the latest evolution in the storied relationship between IMAX and Marvel Studios, with audiences first entering the Marvel Cinematic Universe in IMAX in 2010. Since then, the Marvel Cinematic Universe has become the highest grossing franchise in IMAX history. Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame were the first films shot entirely with IMAX digital cameras, and all titles available in IMAX Enhanced on Disney+ feature select sequences in IMAX’s expanded aspect ratio.

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever on Disney+ Feb 1

By

Robbie Bulus

-

January 4, 2023

Disney+ rang in the New Year with fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, announcing the Feb. 1 streaming debut of Marvel Studios’ “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.”

“Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” will join 16 other Marvel Cinematic Universe movies now streaming in IMAX Enhanced on Disney+, which gives subscribers more picture with an expanded aspect ratio for an immersive viewing experience at home (content availability varies by region). More information about IMAX Enhanced on Disney+ is available here.

In anticipation of the film’s upcoming streaming debut, Proximity Media, in collaboration with Marvel Studios and Marvel Entertainment, released “Wakanda Forever: The Official Black Panther Podcast.” Audiences are invited to listen and learn about the exciting and emotional journey to make the film over the course of six episodes. The first episode is out now on the “Wakanda Forever: The Official Black Panther Podcast” feed, available on all major podcast platforms and at ProximityMedia.com. Five additional episodes will be available weekly beginning Jan. 18. You can preview the rest of the season with a brand-new trailer: https://megaphone.link/ESP3174748639.

In Marvel Studios’ “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” Queen Ramonda (Angela Bassett), Shuri (Letitia Wright), M’Baku (Winston Duke), Okoye (Danai Gurira) and the Dora Milaje (including Florence Kasumba) fight to protect their nation from intervening world powers in the wake of King T’Challa’s death. As the Wakandans strive to embrace their next chapter, the heroes must band together with the help of War Dog Nakia (Lupita Nyong’o) and Everett Ross (Martin Freeman) and forge a new path for the kingdom of Wakanda.

Introducing Tenoch Huerta Mejía as Namor, ruler of a hidden undersea nation, the film also stars Dominique Thorne, Michaela Coel, Mabel Cadena and Alex Livinalli. “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” directed by Ryan Coogler and produced by Kevin Feige and Nate Moore, is now playing in theaters.

Winchester Mystery House Announces popular Flashlight Tours

By

Robbie Bulus

-

January 3, 2023

Winchester Mystery House has announced the return of their popular Flashlight Tours. Launching on Friday the 13th (January 13, 2023)—one of the most popular “holidays” at Winchester Mystery House—the self-guided tours give guests the opportunity to roam through the halls of the purportedly haunted Victorian mansion while hearing tales of its former and (possibly current!) inhabitants.

Guests will guide themselves through the mansion that is famous for its dizzying floor plan and lack of formal blueprints. Tour Hosts will be stationed throughout the house to ensure guests don’t get lost.

To commemorate the kick-off of the Flashlight Tours, Winchester Mystery House will hold a bell ringing on Friday, January 13, 2023 where daytime tour guests will hear the iconic bell ring 13 times at the 13th hour (1 pm PST). Flashlight Tours will be offered every Friday after sunset beginning on January 13 and continuing through February 24, 2023. Tickets are available now at winchestermysteryhouse.com.

Sarah Winchester’s affinity with the number 13 is hard to dismiss. Many windows of the home have 13 panes and there are 13 bathrooms, with 13 windows in the 13th Bathroom. There are also 13 wall panels in the room before to the 13th Bathroom, and 13 steps leading to that bathroom. The Carriage Entrance Hall floor is divided into 13 cement sections.

The number 13 occurs often on the grounds as well; for example, there are 13 cupolas in the greenhouse and 13 fan palms lining the front driveway. Among the other 13s: There are 13 rails by the floor-level skylight in the South Conservatory, 13 steps on many of the stairways, 13 squares on each side of the Otis electric elevator, 13 glass cupolas on the Greenhouse, 13 holes in the sink drain covers, 13 ceiling panels in some of the rooms, and 13 gas jets on the Ballroom chandelier (Sarah had the 13th one added). It’s also interesting to note that Sarah’s will has 13 parts and she signed it 13 times.

Celebrate Lunar New Year 2023 with new shopDisney Merch

By

Robbie Bulus

-

January 1, 2023

May health, luck and prosperity be yours! Disney California Adventure park will usher in the Lunar New Year with a joyous tribute to Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese cultures with a multicultural celebration filled with auspicious wishes for the new year. In 2023, we will be celebrating the Year of the Rabbit. The Chinese zodiac calendar plays a significant role in shaping the traditions, holidays and foods enjoyed in Asian communities all over the globe.

Info on This Page:

In Chinese culture, the rabbit has the unique characteristic of waiting for an opportune moment and then leaping into action. More than any other zodiac animal, the rabbit symbolizes luck. We will also be recognizing the Vietnamese zodiac calendar during the Lunar New Year celebration, which marks 2023 as the Year of the Cat.

shopDisney has released some new merchandise to celebrate the year of the Rabbit with festive clothing, accessories and more. Check out some of the selection below, more new items will be coming soon!

Oswald the Lucky Rabbit ”American Classic” Signed Giclée on Wood by Trevor Carlton – Limited Edition $500.00

Walt Disney’s original animated cartoon star, Oswald the Lucky Rabbit, is celebrated in this giclée on wood by Trevor Carlton. ”American Classic” is a limited edition of just 95 and is individually signed by the artist. Limited Edition of 95 and Individually hand-numbered. Includes a Certificate of Authenticity. Get one here.

Judy Hopps Plush – Zootopia – Small 11” $22.99

Fans of Zootopia‘s most enthusiastic police officer will find this Judy Hopps plush very arresting. Featured proudly wearing her uniform, she’ll insist she gets plenty of hugs. It’s the law! Get one now here.

Oswald the Lucky Rabbit Disney nuiMOs Plush $19.99

Before Mickey Mouse there was Oswald the Lucky Rabbit. Walt’s original cartoon character is set to become a fashion model as this Disney nuiMOs plush. Originating in Japan, nuiMOs are a cute and cuddly collection of your favorite Disney companions that can be dressed up in a wide range of chic, colorful and fun outfits to suit your unique personality and taste. Get yours here.

Mickey Mouse Lunar New Year 2023 Plush – 15” $29.99

Mickey is primed to join the party in a golden detailed costume celebrating Lunar New Year 2023, the Year of the Rabbit. Print fabric and furry trims dress him up for the auspicious occasion. Get it here Now!

Minnie Mouse Lunar New Year 2023 Plush – 15” $29.99

Minnie is primed to join the party in a golden detailed dress celebrating Lunar New Year 2023, the Year of the Rabbit. Print fabric and furry trims fix her up for the auspicious occasion. Get this cute plush here.

Year of the Rabbit Lunar New Year Tea Mug $19.99

Thumper and Aurora’s rabbits make a cup of your favorite brew even more inviting with this Year of the Rabbit Lunar New Year tea mug. Featuring rich and festive artwork in red, gold and black, this mug has sculpted features including a coin on the handle. From the very first sip, you’ll be drinking to a year filled with joy and prosperity for yourself and everyone you cherish. Get one here.

Thumper Pullover Sweatshirt for Girls – Bambi – Year of the Rabbit Lunar New Year 2023 $39.99

This bodacious bunny Thumper celebrates the Lunar New Year 2023 on this long sleeve pullover sweatshirt with golden accents and front seam, all in tribute to the Year of the Rabbit. Get one here.

White Rabbit T-Shirt for Kids – Year of the Rabbit Lunar New Year 2023 $24.99

Don’t be late for an important Lunar New Year date! Hop into 2023 alongside Wonderland’s White Rabbit in this high style tee just made for celebrating. Buy one here.

Year of the Rabbit Lunar New Year 2023 Loungefly Mini Backpack $88.00

Bounce into the Year of the Rabbit with Judy Hopps, the White Rabbit, and this celebratory Loungefly Mini Backpack for Lunar New Year 2023. Fashionable square design, golden trims and a unique ”envelope” style front pocket will bring you look good luck throughout the year! Buy yours here.

Year of the Rabbit Lunar New Year 2023 Loungefly Cardholder $55.00

Hop into the Year of the Rabbit with this celebratory Loungefly cardholder for Lunar New Year 2023. Fashionable design, golden trims and a unique ”envelope” style fold-over case will bring you good luck throughout the year! Get it here now.

Judy Hopps Year of the Rabbit Lunar New Year 2023 Sweatshirt for Women – Zootopia $59.99

Celebrate the Lunar New Year with this Judy Hopps ”Year of the Rabbit” sweatshirt. The adorable star of Disney’s Zootopia is dressed for the celebration on this pretty pullover that features lightly puffed screened art highlighted with red and gold. It’s the cutest, comfiest way to welcome all the peace and joy the new year brings. Buy one here.

Judy Hopps Mug with Lid – Zootopia $24.99

Hop to it each morning with a sip of stimulation from this Judy Hopps hot beverage mug direct from Zootopia. Inspired by one of the favorite foods of the first rabbit officer of the Zootopia Police Department, the carrot design of this ceramic cup is topped with a leafy lid. Buy the mug here.

Thumper Long Sleeve T-Shirt for Women – Year of the Rabbit Lunar New Year 2023 $44.99

This bodacious bunny Thumper celebrates the Lunar New Year 2023 on this long sleeve jersey knit tee. In a tribute to the Year of the Rabbit, Bambi’s friend is featured on the front of this top that has golden accents and scoop neckline! Buy one here.