Thursday, October 24, 2013

Monste's University Deleted Scene: Rivalry


Disney has released a preview clip of a deleted scene from the Blu-ray release of Monsters University (releases on 10.29.13).


Rivalry - Monsters University BTS on Disney Video


What did you think about the Monsters, Inc prequel?


Wednesday, October 23, 2013

TREASURES OF THE WALT DISNEY ARCHIVES OPENS AT THE MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY, CHICAGO

D23 has just opened the Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives exhibit at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago. Let me know if you're going to be able to visit the exhibit. I'd love to hear all about your trip to the museum.




 
TREASURES OF THE WALT DISNEY ARCHIVES OPENS
AT THE MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY, CHICAGO
Explore 90 years of Disney imagination and innovation with iconic props, costumes, artwork and artifacts from The Walt Disney Archives

CHICAGO (October 16, 2013) – Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives, presented by D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, an exhibition which encompasses more than 300 artifacts from nine decades of Disney history, opens at the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago (MSI) on October 16, 2013 – the 90th anniversary of The Walt Disney Company.

The exhibit showcases the creative accomplishments and innovations of one of Chicago’s native sons, Walt Disney, and the ongoing legacy of the company that bears his name. From Mickey Mouse and Mary Poppins to Captain Jack Sparrow, the exhibition features many artifacts from Disney’s rich history that have not been widely seen by the public—including drawings; props; costumes; artwork from classic Disney animated films, theme park attractions, TV shows and live-action films; plus items from contemporary Disney milestones. This exhibit will run at MSI through May 4, 2014 and is presented by Walgreens.



Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives showcases the creativity and innovation that has defined Disney for 90 years,” said Robert A. Iger, chairman and CEO, The Walt Disney Company. “We’re proud of this heritage, and we are very pleased to share this rare glimpse into our rich history with Chicago’s world-renowned Museum of Science and Industry.”

In addition to myriad fascinating artifacts that are sure to stir childhood memories and be familiar icons to many, the exhibition will feature hands-on, interactive stations that will bring Disney technological breakthroughs in animation and motion pictures to life. Guests can explore the technology behind the 53 animated Disney feature films and even learn the steps to drawing some favorite Disney characters in the “Animation Academy.”


“Through this exhibit we’re pleased to showcase Walt Disney as both a master storyteller and innovator whose creative legacy continues to inspire people of all ages,” said David Mosena, president and CEO of the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago. “Guests will be immersed in Walt Disney’s ‘can do’ spirit, optimistic outlook and never-ending curiosity that propelled him through his impressive career. This spirit continues to be the creative inspiration behind many of the incredible experiences created by Disney today.”

Among the extraordinary items to be featured:
·         Clips from several of Walt Disney’s earliest animated works, before there was a Mickey Mouse. The original script, typed by Walt Disney, for the 1928 cartoon short Steamboat Willie, which introduced movie theater audiences to Mickey Mouse for the very first time. 
·         A partial recreation of Walt Disney’s formal office from the Walt Disney Studios in BurbankCalif., including original furnishings and many of his personal items.
·         Hand-drawn artwork, hand-sculpted models and props used in the production of some of Disney’s most iconic and renowned animated features, including Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,PinocchioFantasiaDumbo and Sleeping Beauty.
·         A recreation of a working animator’s office from the Disney Studios featuring authentic animator’s furniture, and models.
·         Animation models and artwork from contemporary Disney animation film hits, including The Little MermaidBeauty and the BeastThe Lion King and Aladdin.
·         Props from classic Disney live-action films, including Mary Poppins20,000 Leagues Under the SeaThe RocketeerThe Princess DiariesPirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl and Enchanted.
·         A special area of the exhibition that is dedicated to the 50th anniversary of the release of Mary Poppins, with film clips, interviews with the movie’s creators and rare behind-the- scenes photos.
·         A salute to Disneyland® Park in California and Magic Kingdom® Park in Florida, showcasing artwork, Audio-Animatronics® characters, and memorabilia from such popular attractions as it’s a small worldGreat Moments With Mr. LincolnThe Hall of Presidents, as well as early plans and correspondence for Walt Disney’s vision of EPCOT.
                


This exhibit is not included in Museum Entry and will require an additional timed-entry ticket, which is $9 for adults and seniors and $7 for children 3-11. Tickets are on sale at msichicago.org. MSI members can purchase exhibit tickets for $4.50 per guest. D23 Gold and Silver Members will receive a special discount on exhibit entry.

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 with members-only content at D23.com; 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 at Gold, Silver and Free Membership levels at 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 the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago (MSI)
The Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago (MSI), one of the largest science centers in the world, offers world-class and uniquely interactive science experiences that inspire inventive genius and foster curiosity. Through groundbreaking and award-winning exhibits that can’t be found anywhere else, to Live Science Experiences that make you the scientist—a visit to MSI is where fun and learning mix. Through its Center for the Advancement of Science Education (CASE), MSI offers a variety of student, teacher and family programs that make a difference in communities and contribute to the Museum’s larger vision: to inspire and motivate children to achieve their full potential in science, technology, medicine and engineering. Come visit and find your inspiration! MSI is open 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas day. Extended hours, until 5:30 p.m., are offered during peak periods. The Museum is supported in part through the generosity of the people of Chicago through the Chicago Park District. For more information, find MSI online at msichicago.org or call (773) 684-1414 or (800) GO-TO-MSI outside of the Chicago area.

Tuesday, October 22, 2013

WDW Books and Communicore Weekly


In addition to the bibliography of Walt Disney World books, I created a shorter list of what I consider the essential books about Walt Disney World that every fan and researcher should own.
Leave a comment over at Mice Chat and let me know if you have a favorite Walt Disney World book ans which one it is.

Communicore Weekly

The latest episode of Communicore Weekly (the Greatest Online Show™) is up! Jeff and I discuss the history of the Disney Inn, the new Tinkerbell book, Gravity Falls on DVD and the Five Legged Goat at the Confectionery.

Tuesday, October 8, 2013

Disney's Story App Update

This news release rolled across my virtual desk. I just downloaded the app and started to play with it.. Has anyone else used it?

My media contact also noted that the app is coming to Android very soon!

Make sure to check out the end of the article; Disney is giving away a few iTunes gift cards.


New Update Brings Premium Animated Disney Themes, Music and More to Disney’s Story App



Through an app update, Disney Interactive today introduced new premium animated Disney themes, music functionalities, an improved viewing experience and more robust sharing features  to Story, a free digital storytelling platform for iPhone and iPod touch that turns photography and video into compelling personal narratives.

Using intuitive technology to access the photo and video library on your device and automatically organizes them into rich digital experiences which can be personalized, saved and shared.  This empowers users to focus on the customization and personalization of their narratives rather than aggregation and organization of their content, which truly sets Story apart from other multi-media sharing apps. Disney has been telling stories for generations, and now Story can help you tell yours.



Story Feature Updates:
·         Premium Animated Disney Themes: Exclusive to the Story app, now you can customize your stories with collectable animated Disney Themes available for in-app purchase ($1.99). These new Disney Themes includeDisneyland Resort, “Cars,” “The Little Mermaid,” Mickey Paris (Free), and ESPN’s SportsCenter. The new Mickey Paris theme is complementary and can be downloaded for free.

·         Music: Add a soundtrack to your Story with pre-installed songs from our Story music library, including Disney music classics from “Toy Story, “Up, “Finding Nemo and more. 

·         More Immersive Viewing Experience: Our new video slideshow brings your storytelling to life with updated transitions dynamically tailored to your moments. And now, shared stories can be viewed directly in the Story app.

·         Enhanced Sharing: Share your storytelling with our simple in-app tools that support today’s popular social networks like Facebook, Pinterest and Twitter… as well as our streamlined e-mail service for sharing directly with friends and family.

·         Better Facebook Compatibility: Our new Facebook integration lets you to tag photos, allow comments (web view) and invite others to download Story to join in the fun.

To celebrate this magical update, Disney Interactive will be giving away iTunes gift cards on the Disney Interactive Twitter account (@DisneyInteract) so a few lucky winners can download all the new premium Disney themes! Visit the Disney Interactive blog (disneyinteractive.tumblr.com) for more info about how to enter.



Thursday, October 3, 2013

Disabled Assistance System DAC and the Guest Assistance Card GAC

Jeff and I offered a slightly different episode of Communicore Weekly for this week. Instead of the usual history and book review segments, we decided to look at the changes from the Guest Assistance Card (GAC) and the Disabled Assistance System.

We know it's a very touchy and emotional subject. Over the years, the GAC has been abused but it has also provided numerous families and individuals with the ability to enjoy the parks on their level. 

Check out the latest episode and let us know what your thoughts are.

iTunes:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/communicore-weekly/id496333443

Direct Download:
http://www.bamferproductions.com/communicore/0090-CommunicoreWeekly.mp3


Monday, September 30, 2013

Empress Lilly and Disney Mountains


Thanks to a secret source and the amazing Daveland, I've got some more shots of the Empress Lilly, including some great interior shots.



I reviewed the 2007 release by Jason Surrell called The Disney Mountains. It's a great look at all of the Disney coasters and other mountain-based attractions. Check it out!
Make sure to stop by Mice Chat and leave a comment! Let me know what you think about the Disney Mountains and the Empress Lilly.

Sunday, September 22, 2013

Chef Mickey: Treasures from the Vault by Pam Brandon


Published in 2010, this spiral-bound book offer a lot of recipes from Walt Disney World, Disneyland Resort and the Disney Cruise Line. What makes this book unique is the historical look at the food (and some great photos) and restaurants.

Add this one to your collection if you've got a hankerin' to try out some Disney recipes at home!

Sunday, September 15, 2013

All the Coins Thrown into Disney Fountains and Waterways

If you look online to see what happens to all of the coins that people throw into almost every body of water at Disney parks, you'll see a variety of answers; most of them revolve around donating the monies to charities.

Please don't throw coins in water areas with fish!

I work for library with a fountain and people do throw in lots of change. When the city workers clean out the fountain, they bring the scooped out change to us. Sadly, the coins start to oxidize almost immediately when they're removed from the water and the cost to clean the coins far outstrips the value.

On the pathway that leads from the Sir Mickey side of Cinderella Castle to the Merida meet and greet in the Fairytale Garden is a fountain. There is a small plaque near the base of the fountain that reads: Your wishes will help the Dreams of Children come true.

Your wishes will help the Dreams of Children come true.

The fountain is decorated with the birds and mice from Cinderella.

Back in the day...

It was slightly different story. According to the July 1, 1972 Eyes & Ears cast member publication, the money was used a little bit differently.
Milton Mills, a member of the Landscape Maintenance Department, has worked at Walt Disney World almost a year. Milton asked EYES & EARS about money thrown into Magic Kingdom waterways. 
A quick check indicates the waterways are cleaned once and sometimes twice a week. Three men do the work and the money is given to employees through the Recreation Club. 
Thorn Murphy, Rec Club director, told us that between $4,500 and $4,800 has gone into equipment purchases for employee athletic and recreational programs. Thorn said money not immediately used is put into the club's treasury and held for rainy days ..... The Editor
Do you usually make a wish and toss coins into the fountains and waterways of Disney parks?



Tuesday, September 3, 2013

Marty Sklar's New Book and Communicore Weekly with Golden Horsehoe and Muppets


Jeff and I review Marty Sklar's new book, Dream It! Do It!: My Half-Century Creating Disney’s Magic Kingdoms in my ImagiNERDing column over at Mice Chat. Check it out and leave a comment!

We've also released another episode of Communicore Weekly (the Greatest Online show™). This time we look at a new interactive game at the Golden Horseshoe Review at Disneyland, the Muppet Movie on Blu-ray and some penguin Five Legged Goats!




Sunday, August 25, 2013

Tomorrowland 1965 Style

Grabbed this image and description from a 1965 Vacationland publication.


Tomorrowland
Here the world of 1980 is brought to life today. The Disneyland-Alweg Monorail System cruises twenty feet above the ground while the Submarine Voyage explores Earth's last frontier: the ocean. Here one also can take a journey to the moon, hop aboard a flying saucer and ride a freeway of the future. 
An interesting prognostication about the future, eh?

Marty called—wants changes!

Thursday, July 18, 2013

Walt Disney World Information Guide

I posted an article at Mice Chat a few weeks ago about a 1984 Walt Disney Travel Company package that I ran across. I'm always interested in how Disney promoted themselves before Eisner and this package was a gem.
The cover of the vacation package folder was pretty interesting because it highlighted 14 different aspects of a Walt Disney World vacation.


Right off the bat, the font choice for the cover is a more futuristic and EPCOT Center related.


The first box has three quadrants, all related to the Magic Kingdom.
  • Jungle Cruise
  • Pirates of the Caribbean
  • Cinderella's Castle (and flowers)

The second set has three images.
  • it's a small world
  • Big Thunder mountain Railroad
  • Spaceship Earth

The third set has four images and does not have a park icon (of course, there were only two parks at the time).
  • Golfing at the Lake Buena Vista Gold Course (is that the LBV Clubhouse in the background?)
  • Camping at Fort Wilderness, which also includes eating and bike riding
  • River Country. Good ole' River Country...
  • The Contemporary Resort

The fourth image includes three photos.
  • Journey into Imagination (and the monorail) at EPCOT Center
  • The Canada Pavilion
  • Frolicking at a beach near the monorail. My guess is that this is near the Polynesian (probably near the Transportation and Ticket Center). Like most every photgraph of water of the beach in the 1970s and 1980s, you will see one of the pontoon sailboats or smaller sailboats.
  • Captain Jack's Oyster Bar at the Walt Disney World Village
So, what do you think about how Disney promoted the Vacation Kingdom of the World back in the 1970s and 1980s?

Monday, July 1, 2013

Win Stuff from Communicore Weekly!



There are still a few days left to buy our love and win fabulous prizes!

We're giving away a copy of My Neighbor Totoro, Howl's Moving Castle, Disney Parks and Disneynature Oceans on Blu-ray. That's one copy of each movie with four random winners.

There are two ways that you can enter the contest:

  1. Leave us a review of Communicore Weekly on iTunes and then email us to tell us that you left a review (we need your iTunes name and a copy of the review): https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/communicore-weekly/id496333443
  2. Send a friend to Like the Communicore Weekly Facebook page. Make sure they tell us that you sent them so both of you can be entered in the drawing.
The important detail is that the contest ENDS at midnight on Thursday, July 4, 2013.

Enter now and enter often!