The post “Clouds” coming to Disney+ appeared first on WDW Hints.
]]>I hate it.
It directly affected this blog over the past 2+ years (but we’re making a come back!) As Zach Sobiech said “You don’t have to find out you’re dying to start living.” Our loved ones have gone through surgery, chemo, continued treatments and are thankfully in remission! Zach’s story brings back that drive to fight, press on, not just conquer an illness, but live out your dreams, reach those goals, and most of all – put a smile on others faces.
Clouds was the song Zach Sobiech wrote and sang, along with his friend Sammy Brown, which became #1 on iTunes in 2013 – the same year Zach passed away.
Director Justin Baldoni met Zach while filming a documentary about Zach’s last days, and he knew he wanted to further Zach’s story even after he was gone. He promised Zach he would… and now we have Clouds – a Disney+ Original releasing on October 16, 2020.
Synopsis:
Inspired by an incredible true story, “Clouds” is a poignant and beautiful look at the heartbreaking duality of life and a testament to what can happen when you start to live as if each day might be your last. Zach Sobiech (Fin Argus) is a fun-loving high school student with raw musical talent living with osteosarcoma, a rare bone cancer. At the start of his senior year, he is ready to take on the world, however when he receives the news that the disease has spread, he and his best friend and songwriting partner, Sammy (Sabrina Carpenter), decide to spend Zach’s limited time following their dreams. With the help of Zach’s mentor and teacher, Mr. Weaver (Lil Rel Howery), Zach and Sammy are given the chance of a lifetime and are offered a record deal. Along with the support of the love of his life, Amy (Madison Iseman) and his parents, Rob and Laura (Tom Everett Scott and Neve Campbell); Zach embarks on an unforgettable journey about friendship, love and the power of music.
“Clouds” is directed by Justin Baldoni and produced by Andrew Lazar, Justin Baldoni and Casey La Scala. Kara Holden wrote the screenplay with a story by Casey La Scala & Patrick Kopka and Kara Holden. The movie is produced by Wayfarer Studios, Warner Bros. Pictures and Mad Chance / La Scala Films.
I had the privilege to tune into the Press Conference with the Director and Actors on October 7th. The key thing that ran true with everyone was that they hope this film honors Zach and allows his message to continue.
Clouds releases on Disney+ this Friday, October 16. Grab a tissue box – it’s gonna be a tear jerker! I’m glad more stories like Zach’s are being shared and celebrated. In a world of pain and sadness, you can still find joy and hope.
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]]>The post Movie Review: Frozen 2 appeared first on WDW Hints.
]]>Synopsis
Why was Elsa born with magical powers? The answer is calling her and threatening her kingdom. Together with Anna, Kristoff, Olaf and Sven, she’ll set out on a dangerous but remarkable journey. In “Frozen,” Elsa feared her powers were too much for the world. In “Frozen 2,” she must hope they are enough. From the Academy Award®-winning team—directors Jennifer Lee and Chris Buck, producer Peter Del Vecho and songwriters Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez—and featuring the voices of Idina Menzel, Kristen Bell, Jonathan Groff and Josh Gad, Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Frozen 2” opens in U.S. theaters on Nov. 22, 2019.
Review
The adventurous storyline is a bit on the predictable side; Anna & Elsa leave Arendelle when trouble arises, Elsa battles the elements that get in the way, the sisters save Arendelle and have a happy ending. What makes the film enjoyable is the humor, music, new characters and side stories.
Olaf is over-the-top hysterical with his hilarious lines – my daughter is already repeating several of them. Kristoff, in his awkwardness, makes several failed attempts to propose to Anna, yet each try leaves you laughing.
Olaf learns about adapting to change while you’re growing up and even sings a song, When I Am Older, while exploring the enchanted (and creepy) woods by himself.
Kristoff also gets his own song, Lost in the Woods, which had the entire audience laughing because of it’s 80s music video style – it literally sounds like a song Chicago would have performed – it was my favorite!
Elsa’s song, Into the Unknown, is enjoyable to listen to – I repeat, listen. I really hope little girls don’t try belting it out like they did when Let it Go was so popular. With all the trilling happening in Into the Unknown, most people will butcher the song.
Overall the film is very entertaining, the visual graphics are excellent, and the music is wonderful.
The Child Factor
Frozen 2 is a family-friendly film with very little disturbing factors. There are brief flashbacks to battle scenes – but nothing gory – I’d say scenes from Mulan are more “intimidating.” There are Stone Giants who are portrayed as aggressive, so very young children may find them a little scary. The film does not contain any bad language – although there are a few quick mentions of “potty humor” by Olaf. Finally, “Wind, Fire, Water & Earth” are mentioned as spirits – which are the elements Elsa must tame throughout her journey. This gives off slight ‘New Age’ connotations, but the majority of viewers already know Elsa has magical powers – these elements play into the theme of this fictional story.
Stay through the Credits? YES!
Without spoiling it… definitely sit through the credits for a final, hilarious scene brought to you by Olaf – and his surprise audience!
I was given early access to view Frozen 2 before its theatrical release, in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was received.
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]]>The post Carolwood Society’s Annual Meeting with Disney Legend Tony Baxter! appeared first on WDW Hints.
]]>You’re invited to the keynote address of the Carolwood Society’s annual UnMeeting with Disney Legend, Walt Disney Imagineering Ambassador, and inaugural “Heart and Heritage” honoree, Tony Baxter together with Society Founder, Michael Broggie the morning of Friday, September 27, 2019 at the Disney Springs AMC 24 theater at the Walt Disney World Resort!
Doors will open at 9:15 am and this address will begin promptly at 10:00 am.
When I first found out about this event, I skimmed over it, and assumed it would be held in California. Upon closer look – it’s happening right here in my backyard. I couldn’t be more excited. You read that right! You can catch this amazing panel in the Orlando area!! Event check in will be at the AMC Theater entrance near Splitsville (not the one near Planet Hollywood) and parking in the Orange garage is suggested.
Society member seating is SOLD OUT but general admission tickets are still available HERE. General admission tickets ($35) are available to all who are interested in attending and can be accessed from this page. And every attendee will be provided with popcorn and a beverage!
Even if you (not unlike myself) don’t think trains are “your thing”, this event promises to give us all a charming insight into what was such an important part of Walt’s life. I spoke to Jim VanOstenbridge – the event organizer. He explained to me in great detail that he hopes this meeting will be a stepping stone to more frequent Carolwood Society events. He’s inspired by monthly meetings that are happening at Walt’s Barn in California.
“Animators, Imagineers, historians, authors, Disney Legends, and fans come to Walt’s Barn to enjoy each other’s company, but really, it’s to spend time with Walt Disney. Diane Disney Miller, on the barn’s dedication in Griffith Park highlighted that “our heart and heritage are here in this place”. So, that’s what I’m hoping this group will evolve into. Not just a group that assembles with railroad interest, but one that celebrates the path that led to and through the barn and those who carry the torch to this day.”
Jim says he wants to do it in a way that helps bring people together in a real and genuine way. Who wouldn’t want to support that?? Let’s get in on the ground floor, together. All Aboard!!
More on Tony Baxter: This is a great opportunity to learn about the design and creation of the range of Big Thunder Mountains at Disney Parks around the world from Tony Baxter, the man who brought them to life!Throughout Tony’s 47 year career at Walt Disney Imagineering he made numerous contributions and offered guidance and leadership that is evident at Disney Parks the world over. Among his best known achievements is Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Join us to hear the story of how this attraction came to life and how the distinct characteristics of Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and Disneyland Paris helped to make each one of these attractions remarkable in it’s own right.
More on Michael Broggie: Micheal has been featured in our series DISNEYWAYS MAGICAL SPOTLIGHTS: DISNEY LUMINARIES You can read about him in great detail HERE!
The 2019 UnMeeting Keynote with Disney Legend Tony Baxter and Michael Broggie.
More on the Carolwood Society:
The Carolwood Society is a private worldwide membership organization dedicated to preserving the personal railroad legacy of Walt Disney.
“We accomplish through our members’ love of railroading which is shared with everyone; to teach our children to understand the role that railroads served in building this great nation, and to encourage the continual appreciation of railroading.”
Carolwood hosts several members-only social events each year which have resulted in the creation of lifelong friendships.
Did you know The Carolwood Society has a membership program? Check it out HERE and consider joining Club 173! Same dues since 1995!
Follow Carolwood Society on facebook HERE.
Check out the event page on facebook HERE.
The following video will take you on a tour of Walt Disney’s Backyard Train Railroad The Lilly Belle (aka The Carolwood Pacific) as Walt himself narrates and describes what it took to build this amazing miniature locomotive. Images are Courtesy of the Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco.
Special thanks to Krista of DisneyWays for providing us with this content on Carolwood Society’s upcoming event! She’ll be attending the annual meeting… will you?
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]]>The post Movie Review: Toy Story 4 appeared first on WDW Hints.
]]>ABOUT “TOY STORY 4”
Woody (voice of Tom Hanks) has always been confident about his place in the world, and that his priority is taking care of his kid, whether that’s Andy or Bonnie. So, when Bonnie’s beloved new craft-project-turned-toy, Forky (voice of Tony Hale), declares himself as “trash” and not a toy, Woody with his long-lost friend Bo Peep (voice of Annie Potts), sets out to show Forky he’s not trash, he’s a toy! After years of being on her own, Bo’s adventurous spirit and life on the road belie her delicate porcelain exterior. As Woody and Bo realize they’re worlds apart when it comes to life as a toy, they soon come to find that’s the least of their worries. Directed by Josh Cooley (“Riley’s First Date?”), and produced by Mark Nielsen (associate producer “Inside Out”) and Jonas Rivera (“Inside Out,” “Up”), Disney and Pixar’s “Toy Story 4” ventures to U.S. theaters on June 21, 2019.
REVIEW
Toy Story 4 is quite hilarious! There are so many funny “lines” that you’ll be repeating, and so many laughable moments. The creators really went all out on the laughter-factor. The graphics are excellent, and the storyline is fun. If you’re like me, and freaked out by ventriloquist dolls, beware; there are four and their heads spin a full 360 degrees – freaky!
But every toy within this story has a struggle. And as the story unfolds, you see how each one overcomes their challenges and accepts their new role in life – especially Forky. It’s kind of funny… you’ll walk away from the movie with a heart-warming feeling for a spork with googly eyes!
I wasn’t thrilled with part of the ending, but it’s just another lesson in life. Without spoiling it – it made sense, but no body likes Goodbyes. It’s still a happy ending in it’s own way… and laughter soon follows!
STAY AFTER THE CREDITS?
YES!! There are hilarious scenes intermixed during the first part of the credits. But stay until the bitter end… someone finally gets their high five! Worth it!
Disclaimer: We were offered complimentary tickets to screen Toy Story 4 in advance in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was received. Opinions expressed are of our own volition.
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]]>The post Movie Review: Aladdin appeared first on WDW Hints.
]]>Synopsis
A thrilling and vibrant live-action adaptation of Disney’s 1992 classic, “Aladdin” is the exciting tale of the charming street rat Aladdin, the courageous and self-determined Princess Jasmine and the Genie who may be the key to their future. Directed by Guy Ritchie, who brings his singular flair for fast-paced, gritty, visceral action to the fictitious port city of Agrabah, “Aladdin” is written by John August and Ritchie based on Disney’s “Aladdin.” The film stars Will Smith; Mena Massoud; Naomi Scott; Marwan Kenzari; Navid Negahban; Nasim Pedrad; Billy Magnussen; and Numan Acar. “Aladdin” is produced by Dan Lin, p.g.a., and Jonathan Eirich, p.g.a., with Marc Platt and Kevin De La Noy serving as executive producers. Alan Menken provides the score, which includes new recordings of the original songs written by Menken and lyricists Howard Ashman and Tim Rice and new music written by Menken and songwriters Benj Pasek and Justin Paul.
Review
VERY WELL DONE! As they say, nothing can beat the original, but this live-action version of Aladdin is likely just as good as the animated version! Vibrant colors, entertaining choreography, and toe-tapping music! The original songs are back – just re-recorded – and Jasmine sings a new song, which sends a good message to everyone to speak up when you realize something isn’t right. Will Smith does a phenomenal job as Genie. He’s incredibly hilarious, and makes the role his own, but does not take anything away from the late Robin Williams’ legacy – a job well done!
The Child Factor
This film is rated PG, and I’d say acceptable for ages 5 and up. Younger children may be scared by a few dark scenes, particularly Jafar, but those are quick to pass. No course language was used. Some of the costuming worn by females does show midriff and cleavage, but nothing excessive.
Easter Egg!
Here is one, fun spoiler I must tell you to look for… When Genie and Aladdin (along with Magic Carpet & Abu) have just escaped the Cave of Wonders, they are all in the desert discussing what Aladdin’s first wish will be. As the conversation takes place, Magic Carpet is busy building a sand castle in the background. Keep watching the progress of his sandcastle… and what it turns out to be! And watch for the sand toss that serves as pixie dust!
Aladdin hits theaters on May 24th – be sure to go see it!
Disclaimer: I was given a group of free tickets to prescreen Disney’s Aladdin, in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was received. All opinions expressed are of our own volition.
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]]>The post Movie Review: Ralph Breaks the Internet appeared first on WDW Hints.
]]>Synopsis
In Ralph Breaks the Internet, video-game bad guy Ralph (voice of John C. Reilly) and best friend Vanellope von Schweetz (voice of Sarah Silverman) leave the comforts of Litwak’s arcade in an attempt to save her game, Sugar Rush. Their quest takes them to the vast, uncharted world of the internet where they rely on the citizens of the internet—the Netizens—to help navigate their way. Lending a virtual hand are Yesss (voice of Taraji P. Henson), the head algorithm and the heart and soul of the trend-making site “BuzzzTube,” and Shank (voice of Gal Gadot), a tough-as-nails driver from a gritty online auto-racing game called Slaughter Race, a place Vanellope wholeheartedly embraces—so much so that Ralph worries he may lose the only friend he’s ever had.
Review
Ralph Breaks the Internet is a family-friendly, funny tale of Ralph and Vanellope’s adventures within the internet. Throughout the film, we learn that friendships are ever-changing but can continue despite different obstacles. New characters are introduced, but the former-loved ones are still there. A special cameo appearance by Stan Lee is also made, which is bittersweet to see. Lessons are taught within this movie, particularly about cyber-bullying and not to believe everything you read on the internet. Visually, the movie is stunning.
The Child Factor
Totally family-friendly. Take your kids of any age! There isn’t any coarse language or visually-upsetting scenes. The movie is just about 2 hours long – so take that into consideration for your younger children. My 8-year old son did claim that he liked the first Wreck It Ralph better than this sequel, mainly due to the story line.
Credits
STAY THROUGH THEM! There is a hilarious scene mid-credits that includes a short about the noovie app game you may have been invited to play prior to the start of the movie. Regardless of whether you played it or not, you’ll understand it – and laugh. Stay until the very end of the credits as well, and see Ralph’s “preview” to Frozen 2!
Disclaimer: We were given complimentary tickets to view Ralph Breaks the Internet in advance, in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was received. All opinions expressed are our own.
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]]>The post Blu-Ray Review: Incredibles 2 appeared first on WDW Hints.
]]>We viewed the film back in June, so you can read our movie review here, but let’s take a look at the Bonus Material you’ll find on this Blu-Ray/DVD!
Bonus Features
Under the Bonus Features you’ll find short documentaries entitled Super Stuff, Paths to Pixar: Everyday Heroes, Superbaby, Ralph Eggleston: Production Designer, Making Boa and Info. These clips offer insider info on how the movie was made, Pixar employee spotlights, artist and graphic designer interviews, featured sketches and more!
Heroes & Villans
Here you can pick your character favorites and learn more about each one! Choose from Mr. Incredible, Elastigirl, The Parr Kids, Frozone, Edna Mode, Winston Deavor, Evelyn Deavor & the Wannabes and see who voiced each character and animated them.
Vintage Features
Check out Vintage Toy Commercials and Character Theme Songs for Mr. Incredible, Elastigirl & Frozone.
10 Deleted Scenes!
View the deleted scenes – these are always fun to watch and often provide a little more background to the full story!
Trailers & Promos
There are 3 trailers on this disc, including the trailer played in Japan! It comes with subtitles – so you can read what’s going on… or just brush up on your Japanese!
More Bonus Features
On the main Blu-Ray disc there’s even more bonus material! The extra material includes the Pixar Short entitled Bao, a the feature of Auntie Edna. Strong Coffee: A Lesson in Animation with Brad Bird shows how all the animators and Pixar employees worked together to create the Incredibles 2. Finally, you can turn the commentary on and view the full film with the directors comments included.
Paper Foldables!
Remember when you saw INCREDIBLES 2 & thought to yourself, “I wish I had my very own Jack-Jack and Racoon!”? Well, you’re in luck! Check out these amazing Paper Foldables. Print ’em out, cut ’em out, & fold ’em up… Instant Jack-Jack Attack! http://bit.ly/
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]]>The post Disney on Ice: Mickey’s Search Party appeared first on WDW Hints.
]]>I have been honored to review several Disney On Ice performances over the past few years, but Mickey’s Search Party was my favorite to date. On a quest to free Tinkerbell from her pirate captors, Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy use a pirate map to uncover clues. Along with each clue comes a dazzling performance from a beloved Disney movie.
Stunts, high flying acrobatics and a dazzling performance on ice keep the audience thrilled as they enjoy numbers from 6 different movies. Blow up costumes help bring the toys from Toy Story to life. Extreme skaters show off their skills as they harvest ice in Frozen. High flying ariel acrobats bring Beauty and the Beast to life. Neon lights, life sized skeleton puppets and a sway pole greet Miguel as he enters the spirit world in Coco. Moana and Maui journey together to save Tefiti with special effects and screen projections.
The audience was brought into the story as performers emerge from the stands and the crew chooses lucky audience members to take part in the show. Don’t miss Disney On Ice: Mickey’s Search Party when it comes to an arena near you!
Disclaimer: Crissy was given complimentary tickets to review the show! All opinions expressed are our own. No other compensation was received.
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]]>The post Interview with Disney Artist Rodelio Gonzalez appeared first on WDW Hints.
]]>WDW Hints: Please tell us a bit about yourself, your background as a painter and what it’s like creating for Disney Fine Arts.
Rodel Gonzalez: I came from a third generation family of artists back in the Philippines where I was born and raised. From my grandfather Felix to my dad Rick Gonzalez, many of my siblings, cousins took art as a profession. I started painting as early as 9 years old and was working at my dad’s studio/gallery from my teenage years until college. However, I pursued music during college and stop painting altogether until 2002 where I moved my family to Hawaii and went back to painting again after 18 years of hiatus. From one gallery on 2002, many galleries took noticed of my fine art and carried my works all the way to US mainland. 2008 was when I was offered to be part of the Disney Fine Art program as one of their artist. I’ve been with them ever since. Creating for Disney Fine Arts is such a blessing since I’m able to do my own take on all the existing Disney movies.
WDW Hints: What is your favorite piece that you have completed?
Rodel: Since I’ve lived in Hawaii, one of the favorite pieces I’ve done relates to the movie “Moana.” Needless to say, I love painting the oceans which is very close to my heart. I do love the classics too!
WDW Hints: Where do you get your inspiration for your artwork?
Rodel: My inspiration always comes from above! I know that God is the true artist and as artists here on earth, we’re a poor representation of what He created. Think about it, everyday you wake up in the morning and see the sunrise or later see the sunset, God has never repeated a sunrise nor a sunset. It’s always new. It’s when I’m off the easel that I copy and see my surroundings and get my inspiration. Another inspiration is my dad. After he passed away 2003, every time I approach the easel, I know that he’s watching me from above.
WDW Hints: Who is your favorite character to paint?
Rodel: I don’t have any particular character that I love to paint because everyone has it’s own challenges and distinct character. I’m drawn to the classics though like Mickey and Minnie and the fave five!
WDW Hints: What is your favorite Disney park to visit and why?
Rodel: I love Epcot because it represents the whole world and showcases different countries, culture, food etc.
WDW Hints: Can you share your latest project with us?
Rodel: Right now, I’m doing a big piece from “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs”. The canvas size is 3’ X 4’ which is very rare for me to do.
Editor’s Note: Once again, a big thank you to our writer, Crissy, for completing another fantastic interview! And a special thanks to Rodel for taking the time to be interviewed! Be sure to check out Rodel’s Facebook page at The Art of Rodel Gonzalez!
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]]>The post Interview with Artist John Rowe appeared first on WDW Hints.
]]>WDW Hints: Please tell us a bit about yourself, your background as an artist and what it’s like creating art for Disney.
John Rowe: Thanks for thinking of me.
If you don’t mind I will tell you two stories about my artwork. The first will be about Disney art which you asked for and the second about my personal fine art and that is said very well in an article that I will share a link with you.
WDW Hints: What is it like creating art for Disney?
John Rowe: GREAT! Because I know that my art will find an audience, Disney does a wonderful job of promoting itself and my art is swept along in that wave. What that affords me is a chance to say how I feel about the Disney stories, especially the classic ones. I’m only mildly interested in the characters Disney has used to tell stories with but I am extremely interested in the stories themselves and what they mean, or can mean, for us today in our own lives.
WDW Hints: What is your favorite Disney painting that you have completed?
John Rowe: It could be this one.
Or it could be this one:
Both of these paintings capture the emotional essence of Mulan and Little Mermaid and both show very strong and powerful women. One fighting to protect her father and one reaching the man she loves. Although both women are strong I tried my best to make both tender and beautiful. I feel both these paintings describe how we feel about these strong beautiful women if not how they were drawn in the movie. As a painter I only have one still image to connive the whole story and feel most of the time that a figure that looks human does that best.
WDW Hints: What Disney character do you relate to and why?
John Rowe: I relate to Mickey. Because in his arrogance and folly. He thought himself capable of controlling everything and was so mistaken. Like all of us from time to time.
WDW Hints: Where do you draw inspiration for your work?
John Rowe: I don’t really know where I get inspiration from. I love to draw and paint. I have ten ideas for every one painting I make. It is difficult to narrow it down to one at a time.
WDW Hints: What is your favorite ride in the parks?
John Rowe: I like the jungle cruse at the original Disneyland because the vegetation is real and even with the old school props there is the true swell and feel of water and jungle not just the “look” of it like an indoor ride. Plus the boat captains can change the script around and interact personally with the folks on board.
Here are a couple of pics of me working:
Last but not least an article about me: https://fineartconnoisseur.com/2016/01/artistic-odyssey/
Editor’s Note: Special thanks to Crissy for interviewing John Rowe! Another spectacular Disney Artist Interview!
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