Orlando, Flórida

As part of the Oscar Academy Awards, Disney/Pixar’s “Toy Story 3” has been nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay. Here are the movies in the nominationee list:

- “127 Hours” Screenplay by Danny Boyle & Simon Beaufoy

- “The Social Network” Screenplay by Aaron Sorkin

- “Toy Story 3″ Screenplay by Michael Arndt. Story by John Lasseter, Andrew Stanton and Lee Unkrich

- “True Grit” Written for the screen by Joel Coen and Ethan Coen

- “Winter’s Bone” Adapted for the screen by Debra Granik and Anne Rosellini

“Toy Story 3″ director Lee Unrkrich took to Twitter to explain why the movie was nominated in this category, Tweeting:

To answer those who’ve asked: Toy Story 3′s screenplay was nominated as Adapted because it’s a sequel with existing characters.

Which movie do you think should win in this category?

Andrew Garfield Talks About Being Spider-Man

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 02:42:00 +0000

Andrew Garfield Talks About Being Spider-Man: "

Actor Andrew Garfield spoke in an interview with London’s Captial FM radio station about being cast as the new Spider-Man character in Marvel’s “Spider-Man 4″ movie. The movie also stars actress Emma Stone and is set to release to theaters in the US on July 3, 2012.

Here’s what Andrew had to say:

I have to kind of not look at my face because it doesn’t make sense to me. I have to imagine that it’s a much better actor’s face in that suit. I won’t lie. I shed a tear when I first wore the spandex. I didn’t think that the spandex would make me so emotional, but it did.

Are you looking forward to the new Spider-Man movie?

The Disney Wonder Arrives in Los Angeles

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 23 Jan 2011 03:34:00 +0000

The Disney Wonder Arrives in Los Angeles: "

UPDATE – New video added below of the Disney Wonder as it sailed into the Port of Los Angeles.

What an exciting day! The Disney Wonder arrived at the Port of Los Angeles early this morning and the ship is here to stay! This is BIG news for West Coast Disney fans. The ship will sail seven-night Mexican Riviera cruises from the Port of Los Angeles to Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta from now through April 17. It will then reposition to Vancouver and sail to Alaska from May 3-September 6 cruising to Tracy Arm, Skagway and Juneau, and Ketchikan. I’ve been fortunate enough to have cruised on Disney Cruise Line and all I can say is: YOU’VE GOT TO GO! It’s a Disney vacation experience at its best.

Check back this afternoon to take a look at video of the Disney Wonder as it sails into the Port of Los Angeles.

The Disney Wonder Arrives in Los Angeles by Valarie Sukovaty: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog

Exclusive First Look Behind the Scenes of The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 21 Jan 2011 02:54:00 +0000

Exclusive First Look Behind the Scenes of The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure: "

As the exciting expansion of Disney California Adventure park moves forward, the Disney Parks Blog continues to give you a front row seat and backstage pass to all of the excitement. Since the expansion was announced, we have opened Toy Story Mania!, Games of the Boardwalk, Mickey’s Fun Wheel, Silly Symphony Swings and of course, the nighttime spectacular, “World of Color.” Now, Walt Disney Imagineering has turned its sights to the next highly-anticipated opening: The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure, coming soon in 2011. In this video, Imagineer Lisa Girolami takes you behind the curtain (or under the waves) to give you a first look at Ariel’s world. From the drawing board to the incredible scenery, this is an attraction sure to make a splash with guests.

Exclusive First Look Behind the Scenes of The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure by Valarie Sukovaty: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog

Disney Store debuts new Marquee in New York City’s Times Square

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 13:45:00 +0000

Disney Store debuts new Marquee in New York City’s Times Square: "

A new Disney Store is coming to New York City’s Times Square with a grand opening on November 9th. However, last night they debuted the bright new video marquee for the store. It fits right in with all the other video heavy displays in Times Square. Having a large Video Screen is actually a requirement to have a store in Times Square and I’d say that Disney is doing it right.

The new store will feature all the great new interactive features, a two story princess castle, and more. Want to see the new store yourself? Head to Family.com for a chance to win a trip to the grand opening.

Discuss this post, and anything else related to Disney, at the TownSquare Forums.

Disney Store debuts new Marquee in New York City’s Times Square

The Disney Blog - Disney News and Information -- by fans, for fans

Disney Dream floats out of Meyer Werft dock

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 13:21:00 +0000

Disney Dream floats out of Meyer Werft dock: "

Early this morning near Papenburg, Germany, the third ship in the Disney Cruise Line stable, The Disney Dream, floated out of the dry dock of Meyer Werft in a special ceremony. I’ll miss my weekly peek at construction via the web cam, but look forward to seeing it in person when it reaches its home at Port Canaveral, FL.

USA Today’s Cruise Log was there and has the dramatic photos and here’s a video from the other side of the fireworks:

The full press release is below the cut:

After 20 months of construction, the Disney Dream cruise ship floated out of the enclosed building dock at the Meyer Werft shipyard today, completing a major construction milestone. The ship was greeted by thousands of visitors lining the shore to see the newest Disney Cruise Line ship, which features the first water coaster at sea and other cruise industry firsts designed to build upon Disney’s commitment to delivering unparalleled family cruises.

The “Float Out” is a special maritime event that celebrates the ship’s final stages of construction, where exteriors become complete and final touches are assigned to interiors. In true Disney-style, the celebration was punctuated with a fireworks display and the appearance of Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck. The Disney Dream is scheduled to sail its maiden voyage on January 26, 2011, from Port Canaveral, Fla.

“Today marks a monumental milestone and begins the first of the finishing touches for the Disney Dream as we prepare to welcome guests aboard our newest ship,” said Karl Holz, president of Disney Cruise Line. “Our guests are counting down to the maiden voyage, and in just 88 days, they will get to experience all that the Disney Dream has to offer.”

The Disney Dream is the first of two new ships being built by the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany. The Disney Fantasy is also currently in production and is scheduled to set sail on its maiden voyage on April 7, 2012.

“Today is a day of great pride for all of us at the Meyer Werft shipyard,” said Bernard Meyer, managing partner of Meyer Werft. “To finally see the largest ship this yard has ever built floated out and nearly complete is an inspiration within itself, and that coupled with the pixie dust Disney is known for, made this a truly magical moment for all involved.”

The Disney Dream will remain alongside Meyer Werft’s outfitting pier in the shipyard harbor for about two weeks, while testing is completed on the ship’s stabilizers, rudders and other functional features, and work on the ship’s interior areas continues. The ship is scheduled to leave the Meyer Werft shipyard and be conveyed down the River Ems, the second weekend in November, where its destination is the North Sea at the port of Eemshaven, The Netherlands.

Disney Dream Innovations

Known for establishing the family cruise market when the Disney Magic debuted in 1998, Disney Cruise Line continues to build upon this success with a focus on the legacy and heritage of The Walt Disney Company’s most known assets – master storytelling, world-class entertainment and legendary guest service. In addition to all of the features Disney Cruise Line is known for, the Disney Dream will have several new notable innovations for guests to enjoy.

* AquaDuck, a first-of-its-kind water coaster, is an exhilarating, high-speed thrill ride that combines all the ups and downs of a roller coaster with all the twists and turns of a water slide.

* Magical Portholes offer a “virtual window” to the world for inside staterooms, with a real-time view outside the ship where high-definition cameras feed live video to each stateroom.

* Enchanted Art immerses guests in Disney storytelling and looks like other hanging art pieces around the ship, but is actually a framed LCD screen with technology that recognizes a guest is present.

* Remy, an exquisite top-deck restaurant, only for adults, with incredible ocean views and French-inspired, gourmet cuisine by two award-winning chefs.

New Itineraries

With the addition of two new ships, Disney Cruise Line is able to more formally expand its itineraries to new destinations, including Alaska, while continuing to offer cruises to some of the line’s most popular itineraries.

The Disney Dream will sail three-, four- and five-night cruises to the Bahamas from Port Canaveral, Fla., while sister ship Disney Fantasy, is set to sail seven-night alternating eastern and western Caribbean itineraries, also from Port Canaveral, beginning in 2012. The Disney Magic will continue sailing seven-night eastern and western Caribbean cruises, before returning to the Mediterranean for another summer of cruising in this region in 2011. The Disney Wonder will begin 2011 by repositioning to the West Coast of the U.S., sailing seven-night Mexican Riviera cruises from the Port of Los Angeles, while spending the summer sailing first-ever Alaskan itineraries from Vancouver.

Based in Celebration, Fla., the Disney Cruise Line experience is focused on providing a setting where families can reconnect, adults can recharge and kids can immerse themselves in worlds of fantasy only Disney can create. Most recently, the company was recognized as the top cruise experience by the readers of Conde Nast Traveler magazine. Disney Cruise Line was voted the No. 1 cruise experience in the magazine’s 2010 Readers’ Choice Awards in the mega-ship category.

Discuss this post, and anything else related to Disney, at the TownSquare Forums.

Disney Dream floats out of Meyer Werft dock

The Disney Blog - Disney News and Information -- by fans, for fans

First look at Disney's new Cars-themed adventure park ride

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 24 Oct 2010 22:51:00 +0000

First look at Disney's new <i>Cars</i>-themed adventure park ride: "

Filed under: Toys/Games

Disney Cars ride - Click above for image gallery

When we were but knee-high auto obssessives, our two favorite rides at Disney World were Space Mountain and Indy Speedway. One gave us a genuine feeling of speed while the other let us pretend for a few fleeting moments that our driver's license wasn't quite so far away. Now it looks like youngin's out there will have a new car-themed attraction to check out in the Magic Kingdom, or more specifically, Disney's California Adventure Park. Motor World Hype has managed to get their hands on a few quick shots of the amusement park's new Cars-themed ride.

Called Radiator Springs Racers, the attraction is set to open sometime in 2012. In addition to the marginally-creepy looking cars in this particular ride, Disney is planning a whole section of the park dedicated to the Pixar film. The opening should coincide nicely with the Summer 2011 release of Cars 2... and it may just give us still-car-obsessed adults a good reason to revisit our youth.

Gallery: Disney Cars Ride

[Source: Motor World Hype]

First look at Disney's new Cars-themed adventure park ride originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Oct 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Meet Mickey Mouse’s Older Brother Oswald The Lucky Rabbit In “Epic Mickey”

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 23 Oct 2010 20:07:00 +0000

Meet Mickey Mouse’s Older Brother Oswald The Lucky Rabbit In “Epic Mickey”: "

Walt Disney’s first popular character Oswald the Lucky Rabbit is coming back in the new video game from Disney Interactive Studios: “Epic Mickey.” Oswald will star alongside Walt’s most famous creation, Mickey Mouse, in the game. The two brothers must work together to help all of the forgotten characters who are trapped in an unpleasant world.

The video game is releasing exclusively to the Wii console on November 30th and there is also a special edition of the game releasing as well, which comes with a special controller designed to match the theme of the game.

“Epic Mickey” was imagined by Warren Spector, the creative director at the company Junction Point. Take a listen to what Warren and a number of other people who worked on the game have to say about the characters Oswald and Mickey Mouse.

Discover More: Epic Mickey | Disney Interactive Studios | Disney Characters | Disney News

This Day in History: Walt Disney World Resort Officially Opens – 1971

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 02 Oct 2010 02:02:00 +0000

This Day in History: Walt Disney World Resort Officially Opens – 1971: "

It’s rare that we post a “This Day in History” on the blog but this is something we thought you’d enjoy. On October 1, 1971, the Walt Disney World Resort officially opened, including Magic Kingdom Park, Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Resort and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. And on that day in 1971, William Windsor, Jr., was our record-breaking first guest.

Are you a Walt Disney World fan? If so, let us know what your “must-do” is when visiting.

Also on this day in history:

Epcot officially opened – 1982

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort officially opened – 1988

Disney’s BoardWalk officially opened – 1996

Euro Disneyland Paris became Disneyland Paris – 1994

Everything You always Wanted to Know about Walt Disney world!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 27 Sep 2010 01:21:00 +0000

Everything You always Wanted to Know about Walt Disney world!: "UPDATE! New titles added.

A frequent request we receive at 2719 Hyperion/Imaginerding is for books about the history of Walt Disney World. While there isn't one book that covers it completely, there are several titles you can digest that will give you a very good picture. There are a lot of titles available and they come from different sources; check out the ones that look most interesting.

The definition of a bibliography is:

a complete or selective list of works compiled upon some common principle, as authorship, subject, place of publication, or printer.

--http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/bibliography

This bibliography is by no means a complete list of books available on Walt Disney World; I have only added books that I own. Feel free to leave a comment if I have missed something good!

You can always keep up with the Walt Disney World-related titles we have reviewed by clicking here.

General Interest

The books included in this set focus on more than just Walt Disney World. I consider each title an essential part of any Disney enthusiast's library.

The Imagineers. Walt Disney Imagineering: A Behind-the-Dreams Look at Making the Magic Real. 1998. A spectacular title that looks at how the Imagineers create the theme parks. Concept art, anecdotes and pictures fill the volume. Has information on the development of attractions, lands and resorts. A must have!

The Imagineers. Walt Disney Imagineering: A Behind the Dreams Look at Making More Magic Real. 2010. A completely re-vamped update to the 1998 classic. Shares concept art, photos and paintings from Disney Parks around the world. The focus is mainly on developments of the past 15 years.You can read my review here.

Kurtti, Jeff. Walt Disney's Imagineering Legends and the Genesis of the Disney Theme Park. 2008. Kurtti looks at Imagineering's (WED) heavy hitters and discusses their contribution to the modern theme park. Rare concept artwork and loads of biographical anecdotes present a look at early Imagineering. You can read my review here.

Ridgway, Charles. Spinning Disney's World: Memories of a Magic Kingdom Press Agent. 2007. Mr. Ridgway recounts his years with the Walt Disney Company and what it was like to work at Disneyland and Walt Disney World. It reads like a love letter to the theme parks.

Smith, Dave. Disney: The First 100 Years. 1999. An essential part of every collection, Disney Archives Head Smith has put together a chronological look at the Disney Company.

History

The following titles are specific to Walt Disney World and cover more than just an attraction. The Kurtti, Koenig and Beard titles are a must!

Beard, Richard F. Walt Disney's Epcot Center: Creating the New World of Tomorrow. 1982. This is the book that every fan of Epcot should own. An amazing amount of conceptual artwork and photos of the park during its first few months. In-depth information on the pavilions and anecdotes from the Imagineers. There are three editions: a pre-opening, post-opening and a short version. The difference in the post- and pre- is whether some of the pictures are in-park photos or close-ups of models.

Emerson, Chad. Project Future: The Inside Story Behind the Creation of Disney World. 2009. Emerson takes an in-depth and straightforward look at the creation of Walt Disney World. It covers the purchase of the land and the political machinations tat took place. It includes a great timeline and listing of key players. You can read my review here.

Gordon, Bruce; Kurtti, Jeff. Walt Disney World Then, Now, and Forever. 2008. Theme Park Exclusive. Gordon and Kurtti have written a history/souvenir guide for Walt Disney World. It does act more like a family scrapbook than a history book, until you delve into its pages. You can read my review here.

Koenig, David. Realityland: True-Life Adventures at Walt Disney World. 2007. Koenig looks at the creation, construction and development of Walt Disney World. There is not another title that talks to as many former employees to reveal anecdotes and what happened politically. You can read my review here.

Kurtti, Jeff. Since The World Began: Walt Disney World, The First 25 Years. 1996. The seminal title in any theme park enthusiast's library. Kurtti explores the first 25 years of Walt Disney World with photographs and rich historical detail. You can read my review here.

Malmberg, Melody. The Making Of Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park. 1998. This book goes into an incredible amount of detail on the initial ideas, design and implementation of Disney's Animal Kingdom. You can read my review here.

Mannheim, Steven.Walt Disney and the Quest for Community. 2003. This book could almost be considered a biography of the Epcot that could have been. Mannheim writes a very through-provoking and enjoyable work on Walt Disney's plans for EPCOT Center and how they germinated and became reality (or didn't, in some cases). You can read my review here.

The Story of Walt Disney World, Commemorative Edition. Various Years (1971, 1973, 1976). An official publication that looks at the first few years of Walt Disney World. It focuses on the building of the Magic Kingdom, the resorts and the rest of the vacation kingdom. It has a great stylized map and lots of pictures.

Walt Disney World, The First Decade.1982. An official publication that looks at the development of the Magic Kingdom, hotels and the Village Marketplace. The book is like a time capsule with lots of great photos. You can read my review here.

Walt Disney World, 20 Magical Years. 1991. An official publication that is part history and part souvenir guide. Great for pictures and as a time capsule. Updates Walt Disney World, The First Decade. You can read my review here.

Attraction Specific

Broggie, Michael. Walt Disney's Railroad Story: The Small-Scale Fascination That Led to a Full-Scale Kingdom. 1998. Broggie presents a fascinating look at Walt's Railroad--part biography and part theme park history. The majority of the book focuses on the Carolwood-Pacific, but Broggie does discuss the Magic Kingdom and Ft. Wilderness Railroads. You can read my review here.

Leaphart, David. Walt Disney World Railroads Part 1: Fort Wilderness Railroad. 2010. David has compiled an monumental and magnificent look at the Fort Wilderness Railroad. A must for any fan of Fort Wilderness, trains or early Walt Disney World anecdotes. Visit the author's website for more information.

Leaphart, David. Walt Disney World Railroads Part 1: Fort Wilderness Railroad Gallery Companion. 2010. A companion guide to David's work on the Fort Wilderness Railroad. More pictures than you can shake a stick at!

Surrell, Jason. The Disney Mountains: Imagineering At Its Peak. 2007. Surrell takes an in-depth look at every Disney mountain, from Matterhon to Everest, with side trips to some un-built mountains.

Surrell, Jason. The Haunted Mansion: From the Magic Kingdom to the Movies. 2006. If you are a fan of the Haunted Mansion, you need to own this book. Surrell starts at the earliest concepts and takes us through to the final incarnations, step-by-step. The concept art is wonderful.

Surrell, Jason. Pirates of the Caribbean: From the Magic Kingdom to the Movies. 2006. An in-depth history of Pirates of the Caribbean, from concept stages to Disneyland Paris. We experience all versions of the attraction through the script, artwork and photographs.

Artwork

There would be no Walt Disney World without these artists.

Hench, John. Designing Disney. 2009. Hench shares his thoughts on helping to design every Disney theme park. The text is insightful and the artwork is astounding. There is also a 2003 edition.

Kurrti, Jeff; Gordon, Bruce. The Art of Walt Disney World. 2009. Theme Park Exclusive. Jeff and Bruce have collaborated again to create a sister volume to the wonderful Art of Disneyland. This large-scale book presents concept artwork from every phase of Walt Disney World's history. Many of the images are seen here for the first time. Every fan of Walt Disney World should own this title. You can read my full review here.

Mumford, Dave; Gordon, Bruce.A Brush with Disney : An Artist's Journey, Told through the words and works of Herbert Dickens Ryman. 2000. A look at Herb Ryman's art--not just work done for Disney, but over his entire career. You can read my full review here.

Miscellaneous

Detailed-inspired travel guides, academic treatises and amazing photographic titles. Usually more of a time-capsule than a history title.

Burns-Clair, Pam and Peri, Don. Walt Disney's First Lady of Imagineering Harriet Burns. 2010. Harriet's daughter Pam and Disney Historian Don Peri craft a fascinating and beautiful collection of anecdotes and tributes to Harriet Burns, as told by her family, friends and co-workers. You can read my review here.

Childs, Valerie. The Magic of Disneyland and Walt Disney World. 1979. I reviewed the book here. This work is mainly a pictorial essay about Disneyland and Walt Disney World. Geared mainly for park detectives and people who visited the parks in the 1970s. You can read my review here.

Hannaford, Dee. The Gardens of Walt Disney World Resort. 1988. One of the most beautiful coffee-table books ever produced about Walt Disney World. Amazing photographs of the gardens and natural areas help to create a snapshot of Walt Disney World Resort in 1988. Absolutely gorgeous and belongs in every collection.

Imagineering Field Guide Series: Epcot, Animal Kingdom, Magic Kingdomand Disney's Hollywood Studios. 2005-2009. Written by The Imagineers, this series of guidebooks discusses some of the details and histories of the parks. They are designed to be taken into the park with you; hence the artwork can be fairly small, but exciting.

Marling, Karal Ann. Designing Disney's Theme Parks: The Architecture of Reassurance. 1998. Marling presents a series of academic articles written by historians, critics and architects that look at the development of the Disney theme park. Wonderful photographs.

Don't forget to stop by our site and leave some Disney Geek love!

New expansion plans at Busch Gardens Williamsburg

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 11 Sep 2010 19:00:00 +0000

New expansion plans at Busch Gardens Williamsburg: "By Cameron Saunders: Busch Gardens Williamsburg and its water park, Water Country USA, are to announce an expansion and renovation plan later this month. The park's website claims they are 're-imagining the look and feel of some of the most recognizable areas of Busch Gardens and revitalizing both parks with new attractions for your enjoyment'. Details will be released on September 18.

Here is a teaser video. And I mean teaser... It tells nothing. But here you go:

Any ideas what they mean by re-imagining the look and feel of some of the most recognizable areas of Busch Gardens?

Muppets Kitchen with Cat Cora teased for The Disney Channel

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 11 Sep 2010 18:43:00 +0000

Muppets Kitchen with Cat Cora teased for The Disney Channel: "

Was just sent a teaser trailer for the new Muppets Kitchen with Cat Cora segment coming to The Disney Channel.

I’m intrigued. I’m hoping there’s some Swedish Chef action too. I’m thinking Iron Chef battle spoof.

Discuss this post, and anything else related to Disney, at the TownSquare Forums.

Muppets Kitchen with Cat Cora teased for The Disney Channel

The Disney Blog - Disney News and Information -- by fans, for fans

Harry Potter: Here’s to shorter lines after Labor Day at Universal’s Islands of Adventure

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 08 Sep 2010 01:58:00 +0000

Harry Potter: Here’s to shorter lines after Labor Day at Universal’s Islands of Adventure: "

For months, I’ve suggested to locals that if they wanted to avoid giant crowds at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, they should until after Labor Day. It’s true of all our theme parks, of course. School is back in session across most of the country and that generally means less congestion in the attractions.

I ran out to OIA this afternoon and proved myself right. Sorta. It’s certainly less crowded, but there are still a few lines to contend with. Upon entering the park, the board of wait times up front said it was 60 minutes for Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, 20 minutes for Flight of the Hippogriff, 10 minutes for Dragon Challenge. By the time I hoofed it back to WizWoHaPo, they had subtracted 10 minutes from both FJ and Hippogriff.

More surprising: at 1:30 p.m., there were nine people waiting in line at the butterbeer cart. It was still being served at Hog’s Head and the satellite outlet near Hogwarts.

There was a longer line outside Ollivanders wand shop but not nearly the summertime throng. If you’ve been there, you know the line snakes from outside the front door (beneath that sign), between buildings for a loop or two, then up the hill. The man in white shirt and jeans in this picture was the end of the line this afternoon. … I’d estimate it was a 30 minute wait. (Sidenote: Remember that fire hydrant in the construction phase of Wizarding World? It was in the temporary queue for the entrance of Dueling Dragons. Seems like ages ago.)

A quicker, though less magical, is the wand cart between Hogwarts and the Hippogriff coaster. At this point, there was no waiting. There also were wands available again at the Trading Company store at the front of the park.

Dervish & Banges had a small out-the-door line, and Filch’s was crowded even though the Forbidden Journey ride was on a hold. No line at Zonko’s. And the line did not go out the door for lunch today at Three Broomsticks, although when I stuck my head in, most tables were full. (Sidenote: The posted occupancy for Three Broomsticks was once a fanciful 123 — it’s now posted as 463. Makes sense.)

So, the lines are shorter, the weather will get more agreeable (C’mon, October!) … It could be time for the locals to descend.

Welcome to Disneyland, October 1972

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 23:47:00 +0000

Welcome to Disneyland, October 1972: "

Today we’ll take a visit to the early 1970’s, a place I rarely visit here on this blog. This is a small but fun batch of images from the polyester era; although in 1972, the full synthetic nature of this decade was still a few years away.

Nothing says “welcome” like this retro sign! I have also included a closeup view of the diverse signage from other restaurants and hotels along the way. The view today sure is different...and even more crowded than it was some 30 years ago. There have been some visual improvements along Harbor and Katella—thanks to the Gardenwalk project—but quite a few eyesores still remain. This became very apparent to me on one trip as I actually walked to Disneyland from the Anaheim train station. Not quite the happiest journey!

Over in Tomorrowland, the Disneyland Marching band is rousing the guests with a spirited tune. Just check out some of the outfits modeled by the guests on the right side of the photo. I can almost hear the pulsing of the Disco era getting ready to explode!

Here’s a closeup of the band; anyone know who the bandleader was at this time?

Over in New Orleans Square, the Pirates of the Caribbean exterior has yet to be excavated for the addition of the overpass.

You’ll note that The Haunted Mansion (although open for biz since 1969) has not made it to the signage of attractions listed for New Orleans Square...even though Bear Country has (which opened in 1972).

Last shot shows a few Tour Guides yucking it up in front of the Mile Long Bar in Bear Country. Just look at that one girl’s Disneyland Tour Guide “D” Pin sparkle!

This photo from 2008 shows a more current view of the same building as it now appears in the renamed Critter Country:

View more vintage and current Disneyland photos on my regular website.

A peek at Disney Pins, Vinylmation leading up to 40th anniversary of Disney World

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 03:46:00 +0000

A peek at Disney Pins, Vinylmation leading up to 40th anniversary of Disney World: "

I’ve had more than my usual allotment of Disney trading lately. Generally, I’m bewildered by all the options – but I also know if I were to start serious collection of pins and Vinylmation figures, it would hurt my bottom line.

Last week I attended the Disney Pins Celebration at Epcot with hundreds of other folks who don’t have that issue. The primary activity is trading, of course. I had not imagined that traders stood in lines to get up to bulletin boards and pick out two pins to swap for — with a one-minute time limit for browsing the board. Farther back in the showplace, folks spread out their vast collections. One woman told me she “only” had five books of “Nightmare Before Christmas” pins. Clearly, I don’t know Jack Skellington.

Most entertaining to me were previews of upcoming pins and vinyls, some devoted to the 40th anniversary of Walt Disney World in 2011.

Here’s a set with characters “creating” classic Magic Kingdom attractions.

More oldies in a postcard-inspired set (Notable: Flight to the Moon, nomenclature for Grand Prix Raceway.)

This fascinating set, when arranged just right, makes up Cinderella Castle. The artwork on the individual pins represents the posters seen underneath the train station/entrance to Magic Kingdom.

Vinylmation will be in on the 40th anniversary as well. (Sorry, shooting through glass casing is not my best event).

Also coming up: a Vinylmation series based on national flags. All 11 of the countries represented at Epcot’s World Showcase will have a figure, “plus Brazil, of course,” says Steven Miller, project manager, Disney Trading.

Earlier in the week, I visited D Street, a prime Vinylmation outlet at Downtown Disney. The store has settled in since the grand opening. It’s less crowded (some of the bulky artifacts from the late Adventurers Club have been removed), and it’s blending vinyls and other merchandise more.

I like the changing traffic signal outside.

Inside, I was drawn to the new “Toy Story” series. Note Buzz’s helmet, which is one of the first times that Vinymation has broken the Mickey mold. (See also Buttercup the unicorn’s horn from this series, plus a giraffe in the animal series and an angry emu in the Have a Laugh series.) Miller says they will reserve the right to accessorize “when it makes sense.”

Also graphically appealing is the Big Eyes series (this is Goofy, see?). Others represented in the collection, which was released this spring, include Buzz, Mickey, Minnie, Grumpy, Donald Duck, Marie, Mike Wazowski, Pluto, Stitch, Tinker Bell and “Pie-Eyed” Mickey.

Miley Cyrus Arrives At JFK Airport In New York

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 03:45:00 +0000

Miley Cyrus Arrives At JFK Airport In New York: "

Miley Cyrus was spotted at JFK Airport on August 30th where she showed off a big smile to the paparazzi while wearing her signature open-toed heels.

We love Miley’s style – including her outfit, her bag and of course her jewelry – what about you?

From the looks of it, Miley isn’t letting her recent breakup with boyfriend Liam Hemsworth get her down!

Simplify Disney Trip Planning With Online Resources

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 03:43:00 +0000

Simplify Disney Trip Planning With Online Resources: "

Planning a vacation to Disney World can be a daunting task. Even if your idea of fun is pouring hours of planning into your trip, it can still be overwhelming. Whether you’re a first time visitor or a seasoned veteran, I have some online resources that can simplify the planning process. We all know that showing up at Walt Disney World without a plan is a very, very bad idea.

One of my very favorite websites is Touringplans.com. Touringplans.com offers a number of services to simplify the planning process:

The Crowd Calendar: The chart offers an estimate of what the projected crowds will be. I, myself, love this chart. I like to be mentally prepared for a huge crowd before I arrive.

Touring Plans: These plans are even more important than the crowd calendar. If you follow one of our plans, we promise you will minimize your wait times.

The Blog: We have experts that post articles daily. A huge variety of topics are covered. These writers know and love Disney – even more importantly, they want to share it with you. (Pictured to the left are just a few of the Touringplans.com team: Katie, Kristen & Caroline)

Lines App: Lines is an application (“app”) that can be used with most smart phones. This fabulous app displays park hours; current and future wait times for every attraction in Walt Disney World, and much more.

Allears.net is the gold standard of Disney websites. Allears.net is an all encompassing Disney informational website. Allears.net covers everything: planning, accommodations, park, restaurant, & dining tips, Disney restaurant menus & reviews, resort details, news and much more. Allears.net is a must visit site when planning a trip. Allears.net will celebrate its 15^th Anniversary in January 2011.

Studioscentral.com is the be all and end all of everything Disney Hollywood Studios. This outstanding website answers all of your DHS questions in an effort to make your trip more fun. Studioscentral.com covers a huge variety of topics: dining, park hours, entertainment and a history of this park, just to name a few. This is a must visit website prior to any trip to Disney Hollywood Studios . I especially love the history section. I like to know how things came to be.

These are just a few of the resources I go to when planning a trip. I have them all saved as favorites on my computer. These are my go to websites. I always learn something new. I marvel at the time, quality and detail that go into all of these sites. Even when not planning a trip to Disney World, it’s fun to read about what’s going on at my favorite place.

You can follow me on Twitter @Caroline251

Simplify Disney Trip Planning With Online Resources is a post from the TouringPlans.com Blog. Signup for a premium subscription today! Or get news via Email, Twitter, & Facebook

ABC’s “Desperate Housewives” Season Seven Promo

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 02:05:00 +0000

ABC’s “Desperate Housewives” Season Seven Promo: "

Here is the new video to promote ABC’s hit show “Desperate Housewives” which is returning for a seventh season this September!

The show stars Teri Hatcher, Felicity Huffman, Marcia Cross, Eva Longoria Parker, and newcomer Vanessa Williams. Check out the promo below and let us know if you will be tuning in this season – PS Madison De La Garza is in the promo!

Magic Kingdom Club Membership Card - 1970

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 02:01:00 +0000

Magic Kingdom Club Membership Card - 1970: "Taking yet another look at the Magic Kingdom Club, this time we’ve got a membership card from 1970. This chapter was for the U.S. Naval Air Station at Los Alamitos, I like the Stars on each side.

From the last page of the Spring 1970 edition of Disney News, there’s the same membership card there on the left with all kinds of details on how the club functions. Someone from 1970 was not impressed with the discount, having written “It will take $23.50 just to go to (Disneyland)” Their math tells me the family had six people; Two adults, one junior and three children.

The cover photo to the Spring 1970 edition of Disney News was reused in a guide book for Spring 1972 which I have yet to post.

Disneyland’s new Ambassador looks like a young Barbara Walters (that would be back in 1886).

Feed the Guests 500,000 pounds of hamburger!!!! It’s always fun when they “add up the annual numbers” at Disneyland. Did they really used to have waitress service at the Tomorrowland Terrace? 100,000 gallons of ice cream, sounds like my annual intake.

From the “How the others see us department” here’s a great article that is a repost from Westways Magazine 1969 (Hey, I don’t have that one!). This article takes a look at how your perspective changes when you visit Disneyland all by yourself, something that I can completely relate to.

This is an excellent “Disneyland” focused issue of the Disney News; some issues get thin on the park, not this one. A fun look at the real Tom Sawyers Island and the simple fun it proved for millions of young boys and girls.

A post from a couple weeks ago (link) featured this orphaned Disneyland Calendar and advertisement on the back. Well, as it happens it’s the back page to this issue of the Disney News! They have been separated in my collection for years, now they are finally back together.

And 'just cause I like it' , the return address section from the mail-in subscription renewal form.

New TRON: Legacy Billboard

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 01:58:00 +0000

New TRON: Legacy Billboard: "

I’m loving this newly released billboard artwork for TRON: LEGACY featuring Quorra (Olivia Wilde). They actually have the full size version of this up at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Tron 2.0, Tr2n, Tron: Legacy, what ever you want to call it hits theaters December 17, 2010. Woo!

Below the jump I’ve placed a few other billboards from previous releases (click for larger size in most cases):

TRON: Legacy” is a 3D high-tech adventure set in a digital world that’s unlike anything ever captured on the big screen. Sam Flynn (Garrett Hedlund), a rebellious 27-year-old, is haunted by the mysterious disappearance of his father Kevin Flynn (Oscar®- and Golden Globe®-winner Jeff Bridges), a man once known as the world’s leading video-game developer. When Sam investigates a strange signal sent from the old Flynn’s Arcade—a signal that could only come from his father—he finds himself pulled into a digital world where Kevin has been trapped for 20 years. With the help of the fearless warrior Quorra (Olivia Wilde), father and son embark on a life-and-death journey across a visually-stunning cyber universe—a universe created by Kevin himself that has become far more advanced with never-before-imagined vehicles, weapons, landscapes and a ruthless villain who will stop at nothing to prevent their escape. Presented in Disney Digital 3D™ and scored by Grammy® Award-winning electronic music duo Daft Punk, “TRON: Legacy” hits U.S. theaters on Dec. 17, 2010, in Disney Digital 3D™ and IMAX® 3D.

Notes:

Producer Steven Lisberger co-wrote and directed the original “TRON” (1982).

Jeff Bridges, winner of both the Oscar® and Golden Globe® for his role in “Crazy Heart,” reprises the role of Kevin Flynn, which he originated in “TRON” (1982).

Bruce Boxleitner reprises the roles of Alan Bradley and Tron, which he originated in “TRON” (1982).

Grammy® Award-winning Daft Punk is composing the music for “TRON: Legacy.”

“TRON: Legacy” forges a new frontier in filmmaking with its avant-garde, cutting-edge technology—set to blow away today’s audiences. Among the film’s firsts: it is the first 3D movie to integrate a fully digital head and body based upon an existing actor, creating the younger version of Jeff Bridges’ character; it’s the first movie to make extensive use of self-illuminated costumes; it’s the first movie to create molded costumes using digital sculpture exclusively, creating molds directly from computer files using CNC (Computer Numerical Cutting) technology; it’s the first 3D movie shot with 35mm lenses and full-35mm chip cameras; and it’s the first movie to record uncompressed HD Video to Hard Drive.

The world of “TRON: Legacy” has an exciting, pulsing vibe that sets its lifestyle apart from any other on or off the planet. From electric light suits to state-of-the-art hair and makeup, elements of the trend-setting world of “TRON: Legacy” are showing up on fashion runways, and companies such as Hurley, adidas, Oakley and Burton are featuring “TRON”-inspired lines targeted for the young male consumer in collaboration with Disney Consumer Products.

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New TRON: Legacy Billboard

The Disney Blog - Disney News and Information -- by fans, for fans

New Magic Kingdom Webcam at Walt Disney World

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 01:04:00 +0000

New Magic Kingdom Webcam at Walt Disney World: "

For everyone who wants to know what the weather is like before they head out to Walt Disney World, WeatherBug has been running a web cam pointed at the Magic Kingdom from the top of the Contemporary hotel for at least the last month.

Check out the animation of shots through the month and day. It actually changes views a couple of times.

Other ‘Disney’ webcams include:

Meyer Werft Disney Dream construction cam

Howard Johnson Anaheim MatterCam

Swan and Dolphin Cam (which used to be pointed at EPCOT)

Are there any I’m missing?

Update: Panoramagique at Disneyland Paris.

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New Magic Kingdom Webcam at Walt Disney World

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Miss America 2011 Contestants Visit Mickey, Minnie and Pals

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 20:06:00 +0000

Miss America 2011 Contestants Visit Mickey, Minnie and Pals: "

The contestants for the 2011 Miss America pageant were in Orlando to observe the Miss Teen American competition, so what better to do than visit Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. While there, they ran into Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and a couple of Princesses – Belle and Cinderella. I think Mickey is enjoying the attention just a little too much. He’s a cheeky fella, don’t tell Minnie.

The Miss America Pageant is returning to ABC for its 90th anniversary. The competition will broadcast live from Las Vegas on Saturday, January 15 at 8 P.M. ET

More deets below the jump:

All 53 contestants for the title of Miss America 2011 visited Magic Kingdom Park at the Walt Disney World Resort on Friday, August 27, 2010. Representing fifty states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands, the ladies continued the Miss America tradition of walking together down Main Street USA toward Cinderella Castle. Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Cinderella and Belle met the 53 contestants for photos before the women broke up into smaller groups to see the rest of the park. Through the day, guests may have spotted contestants on Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Prince Charming Regal Carrousel, Mad Tea Party, Dumbo the Flying Elephant and other attractions. The 53 Miss American 2011 contestants also recorded interviews that are scheduled to appear in the 2011 Miss America Pageant broadcast. Returning to ABC for the 90th anniversary of the Miss America Pageant, the competition will broadcast live from Las Vegas on Saturday, January 15 at 8 P.M. ET. As the world’s largest provider of scholarship assistance for young women and one of the nation’s leading achievement programs, the Miss America Organization last year made available more than $45 million in cash and scholarship assistance. The 53 Miss America 2011 contestants are in the Orlando area to attend the annual Miss America Outstanding Teen Competition.

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Miss America 2011 Contestants Visit Mickey, Minnie and Pals

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Disney•Pixar's Toy Story 3 Will Cross $1 Billion Today

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 19:45:00 +0000

Disney•Pixar's Toy Story 3 Will Cross $1 Billion Today: "

DISNEY•PIXAR’S TOY STORY 3 WILL CROSS $1 BILLION TODAY; DISNEY TO BECOME FIRST STUDIO WITH TWO $1 BILLION FILMS IN ONE YEAR

BURBANK, Calif. – August 27, 2010 – Two weeks after becoming the highest-grossing animated film of all time, Disney•Pixar’s Toy Story 3 will cross the $1 billion mark at the global box office today, joining Alice in Wonderland as the second $1 billion film this year from The Walt Disney Studios – the first studio in history to accomplish this feat. Disney first crossed the $1 billion threshold with Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest in 2006. Toy Story 3becomes the only animated film to reach this milestone and the seventh title in industry history.

“It’s been an incredible year as we saw the Pixar team bring Buzz and Woody back to the big screen and watched Tim Burton’s vision for Alice in Wonderlandtake the world by storm,” said Rich Ross, Chairman, The Walt Disney Studios. “These box office triumphs prove that creative storytelling brought to life by imaginative, inspired and talented professionals is something audiences respond to the world over.”

As of Thursday (8/26/10), Toy Story 3 tallied more than $592.9 million internationally, Disney’s largest international animated release. Latin American audiences have contributed $138 million making Toy Story 3 the highest grossing Disney film ever released in the region. Toy Story 3 is the most successful UK release in Disney history and currently stands as the fourth biggest title in territory history with $102.4 million in box office receipts so far. In Japan, the film has taken in $111.2 million and spent five consecutive weeks as the #1 movie. Toy Story 3 currently ranks as the #7 film in global box office history and domestically ranks #9 with $404.6 million in receipts to date.

Alice in Wonderland began setting records during its opening weekend (March 5-7), becoming the biggest March opening in industry history, the highest 3D opening ever and The Walt Disney Studios’ biggest opening for a non-sequel film. Internationally, the film went on to tally more than $690 million, becoming Disney’s biggest overseas release of all time and the fourth biggest title ever released overseas. Worldwide, the film took in $1.0243 billion, ranking it as the #5 film in global box office history.

About The Walt Disney Studios
For more than 85 years, The Walt Disney Studios has been the foundation on which The Walt Disney Company (NYSE: DIS) was built. Today, the Studio brings quality movies, music and stage plays to consumers throughout the world. Feature films are released under four banners: Walt Disney Pictures, which includes Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios, Disneynature, Marvel, and Touchstone Pictures, which includes the distribution of live action films from DreamWorks Studios. Through the Home Entertainment and Television divisions, innovative distribution methods provide access to creative content across multiple platforms. Original music and motion picture soundtracks are produced under Walt Disney Records and Hollywood Records, while Disney Theatrical Group produces and licenses live events, including Broadway theatrical productions, Disney on Ice and Disney LIVE!. For more information, please visit www.disney.com.

--- DisneyDean (@DisneyDean on twitter)