Star Wars Episode IX Trailer and More

Today at the kickoff of the Star Wars Celebration weekend in Chicago, Director/Writer J.J. Abrams and Producer Kathleen Kennedy were joined by stars Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Kelly Marie Tran, Oscar Isaac, Billy Dee Williams, Naomi Ackie, Joonas Suotamo, and Anthony Daniels, and droids BB-8 and D-0, for a panel discussion on Star Wars Episode IX moderated by Stephen Colbert.

Star Wars Episode IX Poster

“This movie, it’s about this new generation, and what they’ve inherited, the light and the dark,” Abrams said, seeming to reference Rey (Daisy Ridley), Finn (John Boyega), Poe (Oscar Issac) and Kylo Ren (Adam Driver), CNET reported.

The film takes place well after the events of “The Last Jedi,” but Abrams said they were able to include Carrie Fisher’s Leia as part of the “Episode IX” story.

I am BEYOND excited that the title of the final installment of the Skywalker saga has been revealed, Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, and a brand-new teaser poster!

Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker opens on December 20th!

May the Force Be With You, and…LET THE COUNTDOWN BEGIN!!!

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New MagicBand Accessories

I am always on the look out for new MagicBand Accessories, and I was really excited to find a few that I had never seen before as I was walking around the Downtown Disney Marketplace.

I really love the new MagicSliders!

Who wouldn’t love to have an R2D2 MagicSlider???

MagicBand Accessories

The newer MagicSlider characters are really fun with a slight Japanese influence in their shape and design. Also, I appreciate that they have less parts that stick out far enough to get caught on sleeves. I think that Mike Wazowski is my favorite!!!

MagicBand Accessories

MagicBand Accessories

MagicBand Accessories

It’s also great to see the Princesses get some love, too! And the set of three would be great for siblings to split up.

MagicBand Accessories

Seeing Star Wars MagicBandits made my day! I like how their look and that they are here before Star Wars Weekends, because I can now match my bandits to my outfit. (I know…I am matchy-matchy!)

MagicBand Accessories

MagicBand Accessories

The jelly sparkle Mickey heads are also a welcome addition to the MagicBand accessory line, because these look like a vast improvement from the first set of MagicBandits that came out last year. The colors are more vibrant and the glitter seems to be a better quality.

MagicBand Accessories

Don’t forget to check out and subscribe to our YouTube Channel with great tips for utilizing FastPass+, accessorizing your MagicBands, and even how to make a box to keep your MagicBand Accessories organized!

httpv://youtu.be/koolv7fRW-g

What do you think? Will you be buying any MagicBand accessories for your upcoming trip to Walt Disney World?

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Disney Consumer Products At Disney’s D23 Expo 2013

Disney Consumer Products Takes Fans On Journey From Sketch to Shelf At Disney’s D23 Expo 2013

 D23 Expo

Disney’s Ultimate Fans to Enjoy Access to Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Content and Merchandise

Disney Consumer Products (DCP) will give Disney’s most loyal fans an up close look at an extensive collection of interactive experiences and merchandise that celebrate Disney, Marvel and Star Wars timeless characters during the bi-annual D23 Expo, the ultimate Disney fan event. Held at the Anaheim Convention Center from Aug. 9-11, 2013, Disney fans will have the chance to follow their favorite products from “sketch to shelf” and learn how Disney Consumer Products extends storytelling from character and content extension to product development through featured discussions, art and sculptures and final product displays.

While at the D23 Expo fans will also be able to immerse themselves in exhibits, hands-on demonstrations, special signing opportunities and exclusive product offerings at the Disney Consumer Products Pavilion.

Disney Consumer Products’ exciting lineup of events and attractions includes:

Celebrating Disney, Marvel and Star Wars

  • Disney Junior Fun Spot – Get a sneak peek of brand-new toys before they hit store shelves this fall and enjoy special giveaways while supplies last.
  • Disney Princess Ariel-Themed Sephora Pop-up Shop – Sephora Pro artists and manicurists will give attendees the royal treatment with products from the Disney Ariel Collection by Sephora. The collection will be available for purchase along with an exclusive-to-D23 Expo-only Swarovski crystal-encrusted Ariel compact mirror. Attendees will receive starfish hair clips with every complimentary beauty service each day, while supplies last.
  • The Mystical World of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Frozen – See feature animation art concepts, storyboards, unreleased film clips, and products from the mystical world of Frozen, the daring comedy-adventure from Walt Disney Animation Studios releasing in November 2013.
  • Steamboat Willie Redux – Celebrate the history and timelessness of the most cherished Disney character through this graphically re-interpreted mash-up of the pioneering 1928 cartoon short, Steamboat Willie.
  • Spider-Man’s Ultimate Innovation – Come check out products on the cutting edge of product innovation and design featuring one of the most popular Super Heroes in the world, Spider-Man, in Marvel’s first-ever appearance in the DCP showcase at the D23 Expo.
  • Star Wars at D23 Expo! – For the first time at the D23 Expo Star Wars fans can have access to experiences created for them by Lucasfilm and Disney. Darth Vader: The Evolution of a Villain, located in the DCP pavilion, showcases the development of the iconic villain from early concepts to striking realization. Crash Course in the Force: Star Wars Saga 101, presented by Lucasfilm’s resident authority Pablo Hidalgo at Stage 23, will give Star Wars newbies and experts alike a thorough grounding in all matters of the Force and the Star Wars legacy.

Fans will have the opportunity to participate in other immersive experiences, including: Find Your Voice with The Little Mermaid, a karaoke experience celebrating the music from the film; Journey through the Art of Tink, a gallery where Disney artists, designers, illustrators, and animators from around the world have re-imagined our magical, sassy and feisty fairy, Tinker Bell; What Makes a Puppet a Muppet?, which will help fans learn what it takes to create a Muppets “plush” and then create your own; Take a Ride with Disney•Pixar’s World of Cars and Disney’s Planes, which explains how the highly collectible diecast vehicles are made; Assembling The Avengers Franchise, an exclusive tour through the history of The Avengers and the chance to see the latest The Avengers products;  and I heart Mickey & Minnie, a rarely seen collection of beloved Mickey Mouse toys, apparel, and accessories from past decades, along with a showcase of Minnie Mouse-inspired fashions from around the globe.

Disney Store

D23 Members attending the Expo are invited to attend the Disney Store signature store opening ceremony to “Unlock Imagination”, each morning at 9 a.m. at the Convention Center, when the D23 Expo floor opens for members. The 1,800-square-foot Disney Store retail space will be packed with the latest D23 Expo merchandise created by Disney Store and will feature guest artist signings. In addition, guests will find an array of products not yet available to the public, including a Disney∙Pixar capsule collection, which will bring together multiple characters from Disney∙Pixar’s cherished portfolio of films for the first time ever.

Presentations from Disney Store on the Disney Consumer Products Workshop Stage include:

  • Disney Fairytale Designer Collection – Guest artist signing with Gerald Mendez and Jessica Fuchs (Friday, Aug. 9 – 10:15-11:15 a.m.)
  • The Art of Ariel – Special guest artist signing with Gerald Mendez, Enrique Pita, Quincy Sutton, and Steve Thompson (Saturday, Aug. 10 – 10:15 a.m.-12:00 p.m.)
  • Artist Series Two  – On Sunday, Disney Store will launch Artist Series Two, a collection of merchandise with artwork created by Disney Store artists and will host a guest artist signing on stage with Robert Farrell, John T. Quinn III, Jeff Shelly, and Becky Wong (Saturday, Aug. 10 – 2 p.m.-3 p.m.)

Disney Publishing
Disney Publishing will take fans into the world of books, apps and everything in between by showcasing how artists, storytelling and innovative content combined creates stories full of magic and adventure. Guests can participate in live readings with Fairy Godmother on Friday, watch artists behind popular Disney stories sketch live on Saturday and get their hair styled like a Disney Princess by Sephora on Sunday with the help of the Disney Princess Royal Salon app. New books and never-before-seen lithographs featuring Peter Pan, Mickey Mouse and Sleeping Beauty will be available for sale inside the booth.

Disney Publishing’s Stage 28 presentations and signings include:

  • Ridley Pearson and The Kingdom Keepers Insider App Quest – New York Times best-selling author Ridley Pearson embarks on a journey to write the seventh and final book in the Kingdom Keepers series—only this time, his readers are helping him write it! Join the author as he reveals how deception and betrayal rock the Kingdom Keepers’ world as the merciless group of Overtakers (Disney villains) stage an unexpected comeback (Presentation: Friday, Aug. 9 – 12 p.m.-1 p.m. Signing: 1:15 p.m. – 2:15 p.m., Talent Round Up).
  • Dave Bossert Remembers Roy E. Disney with special guest Roy P. Disney – Dave Bossert and Roy P. Disney will share stories, drawings and candid photos found in Bossert’s new book Remembering Roy E. Disney: Memories and Photos of a Storied Life (Presentation: Friday, Aug. 9 – 1:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m. Signing: 2:45 – 3:45, The Dream Store).
  • Disney Imagineering Legend Marty Sklar Presents…Dream It! Do It!: My Half-Century Creating Disney’s Magic Kingdoms – Disney Legend Marty Sklar will take guests through a presentation based on his new memoir—one that recounts his epic Disney adventure, including working as Walt’s literary right-hand man for the Disney Parks, writing a film expressing Walt’s philosophy for the Walt Disney World project and Epcot and opening nine of the 11 Disney parks around the world  (Presentation: Friday, Aug. 9 – 3 p.m.-4 p.m. Signing: 4:15 p.m. – 5:30 p.m., Talent Round Up).

Tickets and pricing information for D23 Expo 2013 are available at D23Expo.com Admission includes access to all experiences and entertainment at the D23 Expo and can be purchased for single days or for the full three days of festivities. Members of D23: The Official Community for Disney Fans will receive a discount on admission, as well as early entry to each day of the D23 Expo for themselves and their guests. More details about D23 Expo entertainment, events, and special guests will be announced in the coming weeks. Fans can keep up with all the news by visiting D23Expo.com or by following “DisneyD23” on Twitter and Facebook.

 D23 Expo

About D23 Expo 2013
The D23 Expo—The Ultimate Disney Fan Event—brings the entire world of Disney under one roof, providing attendees with unprecedented access to Disney films, television, and theme parks. For the latest D23 Expo 2013 news, visit www.D23Expo.com. To be part of the D23 Expo conversation, make sure to follow @DisneyD23 and tag your tweets with #D23Expo.

D23 disney twenty-three

About D23
The name “D23” pays homage to the exciting journey that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his fledgling studio in Hollywood. D23 is the first official club for fans in Disney’s nearly 90-year history. D23 gives its members a greater connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic through its quarterly publication Disney twenty-three; a rich website at D23.com; and member-exclusive discounts and special events for D23 Members throughout the year, highlighted by the D23 Expo in Anaheim, California, August 9–11, 2013.

Fans can join D23 at www.D23.com and at www.DisneyStore.com/D23. To keep up with all the latest D23 news and events, follow us @DisneyD23 on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest and YouTube.

 

About Disney Consumer Products
Disney Consumer Products (DCP) is the business segment of The Walt Disney Company (NYSE:DIS) that delivers innovative and engaging product experiences across thousands of categories from toys and apparel to books and fine art. As the world’s largest licensor, DCP inspires the imaginations of people around the world by bringing the magic of Disney into consumers’ homes with products they can enjoy year-round. DCP is comprised of three business units: Licensing, Publishing and Disney Store. The Licensing business is aligned around five strategic brand priorities: Disney Media, Classics & Entertainment, Disney & Pixar Animation Studios, Disney Princess & Disney Fairies, Lucasfilm and Marvel. Disney Publishing Worldwide (DPW) is the world’s largest publisher of children’s books, magazines, and digital products and also includes an English language learning business, consisting of more than 40 Disney English learning centers across China and a supplemental learning book program. DPW’s growing library of digital products includes best-selling eBook titles and original apps that leverage Disney content in innovative ways. The Disney Store retail chain operates across North America, Europe, and Japan with more than 350 stores worldwide and is known for providing consumers with high-quality, unique products. Disney’s official shopping portals online are www.DisneyStore.com and www.DisneyStore.co.uk. For more information, please visit Disney Consumer Products www.DisneyConsumerProducts.com or follow us at www.YouTube.com/DisneyLiving, www.Facebook.com/DisneyLiving, www.Twitter.com/DisneyLiving and http://www.Pinterest.com/DisneyLiving.Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

2013 Star Wars Weekends Overview

Star Wars Weekends

It’s that time of year again, where fans from all over the galaxy flock to Disney’s Hollywood Studios for a chance to celebrate the franchise that they love so much with fellow fans at Star Wars Weekends, held every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday May 17 – June 9, 2013.

During Star Wars Weekends, Hollywood Studios is full of really unique and special ways to meet some of the stars of the series, have your picture taken with some of your favorite characters, learn more behind-the-scenes details, and have a lot of fun.

Here are some things to keep in Mind if you are going to attend Star Wars Weekends!

Star Wars Weekends – Autographs

Every week you can bring in a memento or picture to be signed by an actual Star Wars!

For those wanting to get an autograph, a FASTPASS Ticket Required!

A FASTPASS ticket ensures your place in line at the celebrity autograph kiosk outside the Front Gate entrance. Grab a FASTPASS ticket before the park opens, as quantities are extremely limited and are issued on a first-come, first-served basis. Once FASTPASS tickets have been distributed, stand-by tickets may be issued, although stand-by tickets do not guarantee an autograph.

Please note that each Guest must be present to receive a FASTPASS ticket. Guests may not get a FASTPASS ticket for other members of their party, nor may Guests save a place in any FASTPASS line for other party members.

Here is a list of who will be appearing each weekend:

Weekend 1: May 17 to May 19, 2013

  • Ray Park (Darth Maul – Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace)
  • Jeremy Bulloch (Boba Fett – Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back, Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi)
  • Dee Bradley Baker (voice of Captain Rex – Star Wars: The Clone Wars)

Weekend 2: May 24 to May 26, 2013

  • Ray Park (Darth Maul – Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace)
  • Warwick Davis (Wicket the Ewok – Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi)
  • Jim Cummings (voice of Hondo Ohnaka – Star Wars: The Clone Wars)

Weekend 3: May 31 to June 2, 2013

  • Warwick Davis (Wicket the Ewok – Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi)
  • Tim Rose (Admiral Ackbar – Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi)
  • Sam Witwer (voice of Darth Maul – Star Wars: The Clone Wars)

Weekend 4: June 7 to June 9, 2013

  • Billy Dee Williams (Lando Calrissian – Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back, Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi)
  • Peter Mayhew (Chewbacca – Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith, Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope, Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back, Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi)
  • Tom Kane (voice of Yoda – Star Wars: The Clone Wars)

Star Wars Weekends – Meeting Characters

You care sure to find your favorite characters from the Star Wars films and Star Wars: The Clone Wars throughout Disney’s Hollywood Studios!

These character interactions are always tons of fun! But, the lines are often VERY long and specific characters aren’t always out and about.

Also, keep in mind that these character meet and greets can be canceled at any time…so happy character hunting!

Wordless Wednesday Star Wars Weekends
Wordless Wednesday takes to a Galaxy far, far away…or Disney’s Hollywood Studios for Star Wars Weekends which start this Friday!

Star Wars characters you may encounter include:

Mickey Avenue

  • Darth Vader
  • Darth Maul
  • Boba Fett
  • Jango Fett
  • Zam Wesell
  • Aurra Sing
  • Stormtroopers
  • Tusken Raiders
  • Gamorrean Guard

Streets of America

  • Anakin Skywalker
  • Commander Cody
  • Captain Rex
  • Ahsoka Tano
  • Asajj Ventress
  • Shaak Ti
  • Kit Fisto
  • Jawas
  • Clone Troopers

Star Tours Area

  • Queen Amidala
  • Chewbacca
  • Ewoks
  • Cantina Band

Rock ‘n’ Rollercoaster Area

  • Leia
  • Luke
  • C-3PO
  • R2-D2

Hollywood Boulevard

  • Jedi Mickey
  • Leia Minnie
  • Stormtrooper Donald
  • Vader Goofy

Star Wars Weekends – Shows You Won’t Want To Miss

There are SO many ways to catch your favorite characters and actors during Star Wars Weekends! Laugh along with humorous interviews, parades and motorcades, and immerse yourself in interactive experiences!

Star Wars Weekends
Zoe getting ready to watch Stars of the Saga last year

  • Stormtroopers at the Gate – Hollywood and Vine Intersection
  • Boba Fett Patrol
  • Stormtrooper Patrol
  • Legends of the Force: Star Wars Celebrity Motorcade

Marvel at a grand motorcade featuring a galaxy of your favorite Star Wars characters and 5 Star Wars Celebrities. The motorcade begins at the front of the park and travels to the Star Wars Weekends Event Stage, concluding with a grand celebrity welcome.

  • Star Wars Celebrity Welcome

Immediately following the Celebrity Motorcade, Star Wars Weekends host James Arnold Taylor, the voice of Obi-Wan Kenobi in Star Wars: The Clone Wars, along with 4 visiting celebrities highlight the day’s events and give you an exclusive Star Wars Weekends photo opportunity.

  • Padawan Mind Challenge

Join a pair of wacky intergalactic hosts, and a few other Star Wars surprises, as they provide 2 fun and interactive Star Wars trivia challenges, featuring younglings ages 4 to 11. Watch as they wield their mental force alongside a popular Star Wars character.

  • Behind the Force: Star Wars Voices

Listen closely as host Ashley Eckstein, the voice of Ahsoka Tano from Star Wars: The Clone Wars, along with 2 very special Clone Wars co-stars reveal the fascinating art of voice acting utilized throughout the Star Wars saga and beyond.

  • Stars of the Saga

Kick back with Star Wars Weekends host James Arnold Taylor as he puts on this entertaining and often surprising 30-minute, Star Wars-themed talk show. Experience the fascinating life and movie-making adventures of 2 Star Wars celebrities.

  • Stormtrooper Pre-Show

15 minutes prior to the Stars of the Saga Star Wars Celebrity Talk Show, a unique and immersive pre-show descends upon the Premiere Theater featuring 4 Imperial Stormtroopers on a special assignment. This interactive and always surprising presentation takes place in the audience and builds to an explosive conclusion.

  • Obi-Wan and Beyond starring James Arnold Taylor

Feel the force flowing as Star Wars Weekends host James Arnold Taylor takes his audience on a fun and fascinating journey into the world of voice acting. In this Star Wars Weekends exclusive, James performs over 200 popular and iconic characters.

  • Visit to the Maul starring Ray Park

Learn film and martial arts techniques from the actor who brought Darth Maul to life—the man, the Sith, the legend, Ray Park. In this unique presentation, the martial arts master performs impressive demonstrations as he reveals his journey to action-star fame. Show takes place during weekends 1 and 2 only.

  • An Ewok’s Tale – My Short Story starring Warwick Davis

Step into the fascinating world of entertainment giant, Warwick Davis. In this hilarious presentation, Warwick doesn’t just tell us about his time in the galaxy far, far away or his smorgasbord of roles leading up to the present—he reenacts his entire life! Show takes place during weekends 2 and 3 only.

  • Hyperspace Hoopla (My absolute favorite)

Star Wars Weekends shifts into hyperdrive hilarity as characters celebrate the day’s final entertainment: Snig & Oopla’s Hyperspace Hoopla! This over-the-top, end of the day celebration features the most beloved Star Wars characters performing in a number of fun and exciting musical numbers.

Star Wars Weekends
Don’t forget to wear for your favorite Star Wars shirt!!!

Remember that Disney’s Hollywood Studios admission is required for Star Wars Weekends. Availability is limited for some events, which may be cancelled at any time. Check the weekend event map for up-to-the-minute information about entertainment and appearances.

Over the duration of Star Wars Weekends, We’ll be posting about the Star Wars Weeekends merchandise, events, and more, so be sure to follow us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and Pinterest!Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

LEGOLAND Florida Miniland Yoda Model Build

LEGOLAND Florida Miniland Yoda Model Build

May the 4th Be with You! LEGO® Star Wars™

LEGOLAND Florida Miniland Yoda Model Build

Fans of the beloved Star Wars saga can celebrate their fan-created holiday, May the Fourth Be With You (#MayThe4thBeWithYou), at LEGOLAND® Florida with a LEGO® Star Wars Miniland Yoda Model Build event May 4-5, 2013. Guests will enjoy a special LEGO Yoda building event, a Yoda Scavenger Hunt in Miniland USA and more.

The LEGOLAND Florida Miniland Yoda Model Build will be Saturday, May 4th & 5th, and the activities will include:

•    LEGO Yoda Build in Fun Town outside of the Wells Fargo 4D Theater.
•    Yoda Scavenger Hunt in Miniland USA. Guests will complete their forms and enter the daily drawing for a chance to win a LEGOLAND Florida Prize Pack with admission tickets and a special LEGO Star Wars set.
•    LEGO Star Wars Video Showing in the Wells Fargo 4D Theater (3 show times per day).
•    Photo Opportunity in the LEGO Star Wars Miniland Model Display cluster.

The best way to experience LEGOLAND Florida and the Water Park is with a Florida Resident Annual Pass for just $99 plus tax. Pass members will receive unlimited admission for 12 months to LEGOLAND Florida and the LEGOLAND Water Park along with other Merlin U.S. attractions including LEGOLAND California Resort & Water Park, LEGOLAND Discovery Centers, Sea Life Centers and Madame Tussauds with no black-out dates. The LEGOLAND Florida Resident Annual Pass also includes admission into special events throughout the year including Red, Brick & Boom, Brick-or-Treat, Christmas Bricktacular and Kid’s New Year’s Eve.  Additionally, pass members will enjoy free parking and discounts on all food and merchandise throughout the year.

For the most current information on operating hours and special events throughout the year at LEGOLAND Florida, visit www.LEGOLAND.com.

LEGOLAND Florida Miniland Yoda Model Build

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Disney Film Project Podcast Review

Disney Film Project Podcast
Disney Film Project Podcast

Films, for those who aren’t aware, are some of my favorite things in the entire world. My affinity for almost all things Disney mostly stems from my love of Disney movies. From there it grew to parks, music, tv shows, and beyond, but for me, it all comes back to the big screen. Imagine my excitement when a little over two years ago I learned that friends of mine were putting together a podcast revolving around reviewing and critiquing Disney films! I have to admit that I was a tad jealous that I wasn’t involved in the podcast, but that soon dissipated.

The Disney Film Project, from whence the Podcast was born, started as the brainchild of owner and proprietor, Ryan Kilpatrick. He began the project with this as his goal: “This is my attempt to view all the Disney films, both shorts and features. Read along to see what I learn as I embark on this voyage, and see what I discover as we watch the true genius of Walt Disney.” Ryan would often conduct what he called tweetwatches in a FriendFeed chat room where he would live tweet a movie and a bunch of us would all press play and watch along at the same time. We would jump in to the chat with questions and comments in awe of Ryan’s often exhaustive research regarding the film we were watching.

Eventually, the project grew into what quickly became one of my favorite podcasts, the Disney Film Project Podcast. Ryan recruited a fantastic crew of film buffs to be his co-hosts in Briana Alessio, Todd Perlmutter and our very own Cheryl Perlmutter as the glue that holds them all together as the show producer. From the very first episode on Beauty and the Beast back in January of 2011 up to this weeks episode 117 featuring Mulan, it has been entertaining along the entire way.

Disney Film Project Podcast hosts
Disney Film Project Podcast hosts

The podcast typically focuses on one film per episode, whether live action, animated feature, direct to video sequel or even Disney Channel Original Movies. Occasionally there are episodes that cover a theme like Halloween specials or multiple films in one, but for the most part on average a good hour or so is devoted to a single film. Each week it is apparent the effort that goes in to this podcast from the hosts of the show and their amazing research skills (always try to find a Star Wars connection).

I am one of those crazy completionists, so I diligently watch each film a few days prior to listening to the upcoming episode so it is fresh in my mind. This has been an interesting task as some of the films have been downright awful (I’m talking to you Condorman, Inspector Gadget, Beverly Hills Chihuahua 1 & 2 (and I’m sure eventually 3) and Hunchback of Notre Dame II), but even in the movies that are laborious to watch, the podcast episodes still shine. Sometimes it is even more enjoyable to hear a film completely torn apart. Along with those notoriously not good films you of course encounter the gems of classics like Mary Poppins, Darby O’Gill and the Little People (with my personal favorite, Sean Connery!!!), Cinderella, and fan favorites like the Avengers.

One of my favorite things about the Disney Film Project Podcast is that I always learn something new, whether it is a film I’ve never seen before, or one like The Little Mermaid I’ve seen dozens of times. These four take their time and do their homework to bring something fresh and new to each episode they produce. I have been fortunate to be on two episodes of the podcast for Cinderella and Up. If you want to go back and start from the beginning, you can download the mp3s via iTunes. DFPP is also available for streaming via Stitcher radio on smartphones, through the podcast app subscription on ios devices, and also streaming directly from the Disney Film Project website.

If you are looking for a new podcast that will keep you well informed and entertained when it comes to the films of the Walt Disney Company, including subsidiaries like Pixar, Marvel and Touchstone, look no further than the Disney Film Project Podcast. Go listen to what the wonky sluices over there have cooking up on their blog with new movie reviews, for films new to Blu Ray, in theaters or on the Disney Channel. This is one podcast you should definitely give a chance if you are at all a fan of Disney films and desire to learn more or even just to see if you can guess what their ratings are and if they match yours. Head on over and check them out now!Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

Weekly Review September 17-21, 2012 – Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Week And More

Weekly Review September 17-21, 2012 – Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Week And More

Weekly Review time!!! This past week here at On the Go has been full of great stuff, and it has been a little different since we double posted with Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party information about week!!!

Also, we added a new contributor, Beth, to the site! Welcome Aboard!!!

Now it’s time to look back at all that happened September 17-21!!!

Let’s Go!

The Winter Park Sip and Stroll is coming up on September 27th, and it will celebrate the city’s 125th Anniversary of Incorporation!

Winter Park - Weekly Review
The Winter Park Sip and Stroll – September 27, 2012

We started our Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party coverage with Tip, Tricks, and Information. There is so much to do and see at Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party!!!

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Merchandise - Weekly Review
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Map – Weekly Review

Tuesday we looked at how LEGOLAND Florida is now partnering with the Dream Village to help make other’s dreams come true!

Legoland Florida and Dream Village Ground Breaking - Weekly Review
Legoland Florida and Dream Village Ground Breaking

Then we looked at the Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Merchandise with prices. These tend to go quickly, so if you are attending a Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party you will want to definitely go in search of these items early!

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party Merchandise - Framed Pin Set - $200.00 - - Weekly Review
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Merchandise – Framed Pin Set – $200.00

Wordless Wednesday took us to Disney’s Hollywood Studios for a Warning!

Wordless Wednesday - Weekly Review
Wordless Wednesday – Warning!

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Wordless Wednesday was of my new favorite MNSSHP sign!

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party - Weekly Review
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Ghost Relations

The P!nk Truth About Love Tour is coming to the Amway Center in February 2013! I am soooo excited!!!

P!nk The Truth About Love Tour - Weekly Review
P!nk The Truth About Love Tour 2013

Thursday we shared our Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Videos of Boo-To-You, Happy HalloWishes, and the Villains’ Dance Mix & Mingle .

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XPlW0LHKIs0

Friday, Cheryl shared her experience at the Star Wars Celebration VI Star Wars: The Clone Wars Panel.

Star Wars Celebration VI - weekly review
Star Wars: The Clone Wars

And our final Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party post for the week is our Roundtable where we discuss our favorite parts of Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party!

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party - Weekly Review
Pooh and Friends in their Halloween finest for Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party.

Thanks for joining us this week at On the Go, and we can’t wait to bring you even more posts next week!!!

And now for the shameless plugs…

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook!!!

If you love pinning as much as we do, please make sure that you also follow us on Pinterest!

Want to know when we upload new videos? Subscribe to our Page on YouTube.

And if you don’t already, follow us on Twitter!

 

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Star Wars Celebration VI – The Clone Wars Panel

 

Star Wars Celebration VI was full of great panels, and our first one of the convention was The Clone Wars Panel. The scheduled panelists were Supervising Director Dave Filoni and Visual Special Effects Supervisor Joel Aron. After Star Wars Weekends at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, I was very excited for this panel.  Arriving early we managed to find seats near the front of the hall. While waiting, Todd made friends with the hosts of a Star Wars Podcast.

Dave Filoni and Joel Aron

Onderon Fighters

Onderon Dragons

Dave and Joel dove right in showing us drawings of Onderon, a planet that is well known by fans of the Dark Empire Series of Star Wars books. They discussed tribal influences, and how with this season the Jedi will begin to shift their goals from saving the universe to teaching the universe to save itself. They then showed us a clip of a battle on Onderon.

Map of Anakin’s Room

Anakin’s Room

Discussion turned to the Jedi and their possessions. Reminding us that while most Jedi are trained from birth, Anakin had a life before the order, and as such his bedroom had more to offer than other rooms. Showing us some designs for a new set for his bedroom we learned some of what they planned would be in there. They finally showed us a clip of Anakin and Obi Wan talking in Anakin’s bedroom about his relationship with Padmé.  In the scene was a nod to the movies in the form of a pod-racing poster featuring Sebulba and Ben Quadinaros in his room.

Comet Storm

Republic Commando

The next part concentrated on droids, and Dave commented about how children could go interact with droids in the Expo Hall and how you should spend some time watching them do this if you had a chance.The next clip shown was of droids on a ship being led by R2-D2 on some sort of unknown mission, and we got to see them get caught in a field of comets. We then shifted to drawings of a Republic Hover Commando. We learned from Dave that he used one of the first painted hockey goalie masks as a reference for the Commando’s mask. They then showed a clip of the Republic Commando in action as he provided backup for the droids.

Bad Guys

Black Sun

Bo Katan

Next we got to see a series of scenes and images including Darth Maul and Savage Opress working with Pre Vizsla, Leader of the Death Watch.  Some images were presented of members of the Black Sun, a criminal syndicate from Star Wars novels.  The big crowd pleasing scene was when we got to see the Bo Katan lead a team to rescue Obi Wan. After she takes out his captors, Bo Katan does this hair flip at the end of the scene that was both intricate and made it seem like her fight was effortless. Dave brought up a convention guest who was dressed like Bo Katan to demonstrate how popular she had become and why we were getting to see more of her.

George Lucas

After a few more scenes, the lights came back on, and sitting on stage was George Lucas.  It was unexpected and unscheduled.  George discussed that he and the writers had to figure out how to bring Darth Maul back, and why he was in the Clone Wars television series among other things. Then they showed us the Clone Wars season 5 trailer.  Both of which you can see in the following video (The trailer is at 5:24 and runs until 8:50).

The Clone Wars Panel was definitely a highlight of our time at Star Wars Celebration VI!Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

Weekly Review – Our Week On The Go September 10-14

Weekly Review – Our Week On The Go September 10-14

Weekly Review time!!! This past week here at On the Go has been full of great stuff, and now it’s time to look back at all that happened September 10-14!!!

Let’s Go!

Monday started with a review of Walt Disney Pocahontas and Pocahontas II: Journey into a New World action-packed animated musical adventure Pocahontas and Pocahontas II: Journey into a New World debut for the first time ever in vivid High Definition on August 21, 2012.

walt disney pocahontas - Weekly Review
Walt Disney Pocahontas and Pocahontas II is available on Blu-Ray on August 21, 2012.

Aurora shares some of her highlights from Nights of Joy with Shalon at the Magic Kingdom. Included are links to our many performance videos on YouTube and Facebook Albums of pictures!

Night of Joy - Lecrae - - Weekly Review
Lecrae putting on an AMAZING Show in front of Cinderella’s Castle!

Wordless Wednesday took us to the roofs of Hogsmeade at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Wordless Wednesday - Weekly Review
Wordless Wednesday – The Roofs of Hogsmeade

It’s almost time for Oktoberfest in Celebration, and if you are in the area you will want to swing by because it is a lot of fun for the whole family!

Celebration Florida - Weekly Review
Celebration, FL

Mayor Buddy Dyer and Orlando City Soccer’s President are visiting other parks in the Kansas City area, including Livestrong Sporting Park, to explore stadium options for the Citrus Bowl.

Orlando City Soccer - Weekly Review
Orlando City Soccer

Betsy had the chance to attend a Lunch and Learn for Joe’s Crab Shack, and their new menu additions look delicious!!!

Joe's Crab Shack - Weekly Review
Joe’s Crab Shack entrance

The Orlando Solar Bears announced today that they have agreed to terms with defenseman Derick Martin.

Orlando Solar Bears - Weekly Review
Orlando Solar Bears

Star Wars Celebration VI was held at the Orange County Convention Center, and Cheryl shares some of her preparations and pictures!

Star Wars Celebration VI - Weekly Review
Star Wars Celebration VI Logo

The Orlando Solar Bears announced that single game tickets for the 2012-13 season will go on sale beginning Wednesday, September 19.

Orlando Solar Bears Opening Night Logo - Weekly Review
Orlando Solar Bears Opening Night Logo

Thanks for joining us this week at On the Go, and we can’t wait to bring you even more posts next week!!! We are going to be dedicating a lot of our posts to one of our favorite events at the Magic Kingdom…Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party!!!

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Star Wars Celebration VI – The Beginning

Star Wars Celebration VI – The Beginning

 

Star Wars CelebrationVI was coming to Orlando, and as soon as he heard my husband, Todd, and I planned to attend. The question that we first faced was when to attend?  Fortunately, we know a Jedi Master who had been to many Celebrations in the past. And after talking with him about what we could expect and things that we wouldn’t want to miss, we decided that Saturday would be the best day for us to attend Star Wars Celebration VI. We chose Saturday since it had two panels we definitely wanted to attend: “The Clone Wars”, and the “Super-Secret Star Wars Panel”.  And then we also discussed and listed a few other panels we might want to attend as well as some other things we wanted to see. Then, after letting Todd do the rest of the event planning for Celebration VI, I looked at the Orange County Convention Center parking map and found a garage nearby so we wouldn’t need to shuttle.

When Saturday finally arrived, we left the house early knowing that the panels we didn’t want to miss would be really crowded.  After following the highway signs directing which exit to take, we tried unsuccessfully to find the parking garage.  So we ended up parking at the Orange County Convention Center parking and shuttling over to the West Building.  I found it ironic that the shuttles were run by Empire, and it was cool that they were showing Star Wars movies.  Once we got to Star Wars Celebration VI there we saw plenty of Star Wars decorations and people dressed up as their favorite characters. We then went off to go get our passes, review our plan for the day, and walk by the Expo Hall to see if it was open. It wasn’t, but a line had formed of those waiting to get into the Hall. Instead of getting in line there, we took some pictures of some of our favorite costumes and decorations, and then decided to head to the other hall where we needed to get in line for our first panel.

In my next post about Star Wars Celebration VI, I will talk more about the panels and share some of the great details we got from attending them!

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Weekly Review – Our Week On The Go September 3-7

Weekly Review – Our Week On The Go September 3-7

Weekly Review time!!! This past week here at On the Go has been full of great stuff, and now it’s time to look back at all that happened September 3-7!!!

Let’s get this party started!!!

We started the week with a look at SeaWorld Orlando’s Animal Rescue Team’s efforts to save stranded pilot whales. SeaWorld Orlando Animal Rescue Team, along with several local agencies, responded on September 1, 2012, to 22 short-finned pilot whales that stranded at Florida’s Avalon State Park Beach in St. Lucie County.

SeaWorld Orlando Animal Rescue Team Weekly Review
SeaWorld Orlando’s Animal Rescue Team, along with several agencies, responded to 22 short-finned pilot whales that stranded at Florida’s Avalon State Park Beach in St. Lucie County.

Tuesday, Aurora looked back on our time with the Orlando City Soccer Club this season.

Orlando City Soccer Weekly Review
Orlando City Soccer shoots and SCORES during their last game of the 2011-2012 Season!

Wordless Wednesday took us to one of my favorite moments in Wishes!

Wordless Wednesday Weekly Review
Wordless Wednesday – Wishes!

Scared Shrekless Family Fun is coming to the Gaylord Palms Resort this Halloween offering guests the opportunity to scare up some fun with their favorite characters from Shrek, Madagascar, and Kung Fu Panda!

Scared Shrekless at Gaylord Palms Resort Weekly Review
Scared Shrekless at Gaylord Palms Resort – October 13th and 27th

Betsy took us along on the final leg of her Disneyland in this amazing Trip Report!

httpv://youtu.be/O11z4CWTpqc

We also took a look at the adorable The Tigger Movie that is out now on Blu-Ray.

The Tigger Movie Weekly Review
The Tigger Movie is available now on Blu Ray!

And we ended the week with a giveaway that would make any woman happy…A chance to win a pair of Custom Christian Louboutin shoes! In honor of Disney’s global release of the classic animated masterpiece “Cinderella”, which will be available in Blu-ray™ Diamond Edition on October 2, 2012, Walt Disney Studios, in collaboration with Christian Louboutin and Glam Media, today reveal details of their national quest to find a modern-day Cinderella. One lucky woman whose style and fashion sense best embodies the Cinderella fairytale will ultimately be awarded with a pair of original Cinderella slippers re-imagined by world-renowned shoe designer Christian Louboutin during a private event at Disneyland, CA taking place on September 27th.

Cinderella Christian Louboutin Giveaway
Enter the Cinderella Christian Louboutin Giveaway Today!

Thanks for joining us our Weekly Review at On the Go, and we can’t wait to bring you even more posts next week!!! We’ll be covering Nights of Joy at the Magic Kingdom, Disney on Ice: Rockin’ Ever After, LEGOLAND going to galaxies far away, and a ghostly Titanic Experience!

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The Force Is Strong In Orlando – Star Wars Celebration Returns

Star Wars Celebration VI is returning to Orlando!!!

The event will be August 23 – 26, 2012 at the Orange County Convention Center in the West Concourse located inside the West Building, Halls WA – WD1.  The West Building faces International Drive. The street address for the West Concourse is 9800 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819. map

The event will run from 10am – 7pm Thurs/Fri/Sat and 10am – 5pm on Sun.

All tickets are available for order online along with T-Shirts and Souvenir Programs.  Tickets ordered before July 21, 2012 will have their tickets mailed out to them by USPS. There is no cost for this mailing – the ticket you receive is all that’s required to get into Celebration.  No waiting in lines.  If you’d like a faster delivery you can pay $9.95 for UPS delivery.  For orders of 5 or more tickets, UPS shipping is automatically added to your order.  Any tickets ordered after July 20, 2012 will not be mailed.  Instead, bring your order confirmation to a registration desk.  International tickets will not be mailed.

For Adults, one day tickets are $55 for Thurs/Fri or $60 for Sat/Sun, and $135 for a 4-day pass.

For Children, one day tickets are $27 for Thurs/Fri/Sat/Sun, and $54 for a 4-day pass.

There are also 4-day and Weekend-only Family packages available with various Adult/Child combinations ranging from $211.85 to $388.80 – equaling a 5% to 10% discount over the above prices.

At this time all VIP Packages have sold out.

Tickets can be purchased at the door, but will be more expensive, so ordering online is definitely the way to go.

Not sure what Star Wars Celebration 6 is they have an Online FAQ, and there is also a YouTube Advertisement.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9qWrgqfUGI

At the final Star Wars Weekend 2012 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Star Wars: The Clone Wars Director Dave Filoni not only showed a clip of Embo, the bounty hunter he voices in the series, chasing Anakin and Ahsoka while snowboarding down a mountain using his hat (also a weapon and shield), but also told us that he’s planning to bring a preview episode from season 5 of The Clone Wars to Celebration.

Hosts for the event are:

James Arnold Taylor – Voice of Obi-Wan Kenobi in Star Wars: The Clone Wars

Pablo Hidalgo – Author & Lucasfilm Resident Star Wars Expert

David Collins – Voice Actor/Director, Musician & Designer

Chris Hardwick – Nerdist Founder

In addition, there are may other guests coming from cast, crew, and artists to pop culture personalities and celebrities. Many of whom will be available for autographs, while others will be giving talks and interviews.  The complete list and updates on who is coming can be found here.

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Her Universe Star Wars To Debut at Disney’s Star Wars Weekends and Online

It’s a good time to be a fangirl of the Star Wars saga as Her Universe, the female sci-fi genre line of fashionable apparel and accessories, revealed today it’s new Spring/Summer line to debut at Star Wars Weekends at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Orlando, Florida on May 18th (running each weekend till June 10th) and online at www.heruniverse.com on May 21st.

Created by actress Ashley Eckstein, the voice of Ahsoka Tano on Star Wars: The Clone Wars, the current seasonal offering from Her Universe Includes a racer back tank top and fashion tops featuring such beloved characters as Princess Leia, R2-D2 and Darth Vader as well as a unique Princess Leia zip-hoodie and a fun Ahsoka Tano youth tunic created to help young girls feel just like Anakin’s Padawan learner on The Clone Wars. To accentuate the new Star Wars apparel, Eckstein and Her Universe are offering two new charms – a Boba Fett design and a Japor Snippet replica, the good luck charm given as a gift to Padme from a young Anakin Skywalker. All of this Star Wars treasure can be carried in the new cotton canvas Star Wars tote bag featuring the Star Wars symbols. Several new apparel pieces are also being introduced for the younger “Jedi-in-training” including several Star Wars youth designs and, for the first time, a Jedi onesie for the tiniest followers of the Force featuring the adorable art of popular Star Wars illustrator Katie Cook.

“I was very excited when Ashley approached me to do kids’ designs for Her Universe,” said Cook. “She’s doing a wonderful thing for the female fan community already… and she’s doing those of us with little girls an even bigger favor by giving the littlest fangirls nerdy gear of their own!”

In addition to the new product line being available at Disney’s Star Wars Weekends, Eckstein will also, for the fourth year in a row, be co-hosting the Behind The Force live stage show and signing autographs each weekend of the event.

“Disney’s Star Wars Weekends is one of my favorite events of the year,” said Ashley Eckstein. “I truly enjoy meeting Star Wars fans of all ages and that’s why I am so excited to be offering merchandise for women, girls and now babies! As the voice of Ahsoka Tano, I cannot wait to see baby girls in an Ahsoka “Jedi in Training” onesie or little girls running around in Ahsoka’s new costume top!”

Her Universe was launched in 2009 by Eckstein, and her partner, The Araca Group, known as one of the most innovative theatrical production and merchandise companies in the world. Her Universe was created to directly address the expanding market of female fans by entering into its first agreement with Lucas Licensing to develop and produce a line of female-centered Star Wars apparel and accessories. The success of that line was followed up with a collection for the Syfy network including such shows as Battlestar Galactica. Visit www.heruniverse.com to purchase the new Star Wars collection or visit a Hot Topic store near you to find select Her Universe items. You can also learn more about Her Universe by following Eckstein on Twitter and visiting the Her Universe Facebook page.

Running every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from May 18th through June 10th, Disney’s Star Wars Weekends is an annual event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park celebrating the Star Wars Saga, as well the animated television series Star Wars: The Clone Wars. Each weekend offers fans a unique opportunity to join Jedi Masters, Sith Lords and Star Wars celebrities for special shows, presentations and memorabilia. For more information on Star Wars Weekends, visit: disneyworld.com/starwarsweekends or disneyparks.com/blog.

Photo credit: – Kelsey Edwards Photography

Her Universe has made a youth long sleeve costume tunic top, complete with thumbholes and a hood, to keep girls cozy while they pretend to be their favorite Jedi Padwan, Ahsoka Tano, from The Clone Wars

Anakin Skywalker gave this Japor Snippet symbol for good fortune to Padme Ami-dala. Now you can own this new Sterling Silver plated good luck charm and add it to your Star Wars by Her Universe charm bracelet.

R2-D2 is one of the most beloved heroes of the Star Wars saga and is always there to save the day. This new combed cotton jersey tee from Her Universe features everyone's favorite droid.

It's never too early to show them the ways of the Force! Featuring a new, original "Jedi in Training" design by renowned artist Katie Cook, this infant tee is perfect for any youngling.

Inspired by our fans, because Her Universe is a place where princesses save themselves, this new tee featuring original art from Katie Cook showcases Leia Organa, the self rescuing princess that started it all.

Cosplaying Leia has never been so comfortable in this new costume hoodie from Her Universe. By wearing this lightweight zip-hoodie you can be Princess Leia with the hoodie up or just geek chic with the hood down.

Inspired by Princess Leia herself, Carrie Fisher, who always liked the phrase "Looking For Love In Aldraan Places" and shared her thoughts with Her Universe founder Ashley Eckstein, this new 100% combed cotton jersey tee is perfect for any fan with a witty sense of humor.

Never underestimate the power of the Dark Side! Show the sexy side of the Sith with this Darth Maul inspired racer back tank top from Her Universe.

 

 

 

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