Prepare for More Mel Brooks: Pullman and Moranis Confirmed for Spaceballs 2
Bill Pullman and Rick Moranis are officially reprising their iconic roles as Lone Starr and Dark Helmet, respectively, in the upcoming Spaceballs movie from Amazon MGM Studios. According to Deadline, Keke Palmer (One of Them Days) is also joining the cast.
Amazon has not yet commented on the new Spaceballs film, and details about Keke Palmer’s role and the sequel’s plot are being kept under wraps. Lewis Pullman, Bill Pullman’s son and a rising star from Thunderbolts, has also joined the cast in an undisclosed role, a detail first reported by The Hollywood Reporter.
The return of Rick Moranis is especially notable, given his decades-long absence from the screen. As announced this morning, original director and star Mel Brooks will also be back, reprising his role as Yogurt. The film, slated for a 2027 theatrical release, has been humorously described by early, unscripted reports as “A Non-Prequel Non-Reboot Sequel Part Two but with Reboot Elements Franchise Expansion Film.”
Josh Greenbaum (Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar) is set to direct the Spaceballs sequel, working from a script by Benji Samit, Dan Hernandez, and Josh Gad—a collaboration first announced last June. Gad is also expected to star and will produce alongside Imagine Entertainment’s Brian Grazer and Jeb Brody, as well as Mel Brooks and Greenbaum. Kevin Salter, Adam Merims, Samit, and Hernandez will serve as executive producers.
The original Spaceballs, released by MGM in 1987, is a beloved parody of the sci-fi genre, drawing inspiration from Star Wars and other classics like 2001: A Space Odyssey. The story follows the nefarious Dark Helmet (Moranis) and President Skroob (Brooks) as they try to steal the atmosphere of the peaceful planet Druidia. Their plans are, of course, foiled by the heroic Lone Starr (Pullman), his loyal sidekick Barf (John Candy), and the spirited Druish princess Vespa (Daphne Zuniga). The cast also featured Joan Rivers and Dick Van Patten. While the film grossed just over $38.1 million worldwide, it has since achieved cult classic status and remains a favorite among fans.
Bill Pullman, recognized for his roles in classics like Independence Day and David Lynch’s Lost Highway, has recently starred in series such as The Sinner and films including The High Note and Dark Waters. Looking ahead, he’s set to appear in the Duffer Brothers’ Netflix series The Boroughs and A24’s Famous, opposite Zac Efron, among other projects.
An icon of the ’80s and ’90s, Rick Moranis achieved fame with roles in Ghostbusters, Little Shop of Horrors, and the Honey, I Shrunk the Kids franchise, following his earlier work writing and starring in the acclaimed Canadian sketch series SCTV. Moranis largely stepped away from acting in the late ’90s to focus on raising his children after the passing of his wife, costume designer Ann Belsky. His most recent appearance was alongside Ryan Reynolds in a 2020 ad for Mint Mobile.
Your Personal Healthcare Companion, Now in Baymax Loungefly Mini Backpack Form!
You know that warm, fuzzy feeling you get when Baymax says, “On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate your pain?” Well, now you can carry that feeling with you everywhere you go! Say hello to the Baymax Loungefly Mini Backpack, your new personal healthcare companion in stylish, mini form.
You can snag this adorable and practical Baymax Loungefly Mini Backpack for just $99. It’s available online at the Disney Store and, if you’re lucky enough to be there, at Epcot.
This isn’t just any backpack; it’s a hug in accessory form, inspired by everyone’s favorite inflatable robot from Disney’s Big Hero 6. Loungefly has truly outdone themselves with this one. Made from simulated leather, it boasts a cool allover waffle pattern and intricate embroidered details that perfectly capture Baymax’s endearing, watchful gaze. It’s like he’s always keeping an eye on you, making sure you’re feeling a solid “10” at all times!
Ready to upgrade your everyday carry? Whether you’re navigating the bustling streets of San Fransokyo (we wish!), exploring the magic of the Disney Parks, or just heading out for a casual day, this mini backpack is the perfect sidekick for all your essentials. Plus, let’s be real, it’s an instant conversation starter. Imagine the compliments! Don’t miss out on bringing a little bit of Baymax’s comforting presence into your life!
The Happiest Merch on Earth! Disneyland 70th Anniversary Collection Has Arrived!
Get ready to dive into the happiest merch reveal on Earth! Disneyland is turning the big 7-0, and trust me, your shopping lists are about to get a whole lot longer. We’re talking about a lineup of must-have goodies that celebrate seven decades of magic, and it’s all launching in style.
First things first, the Disneyland 70th Anniversary Celebration Collection has officially made its way to DisneyStore.com! So, whether you’re planning a trip to the Happiest Place on Earth or just want to celebrate from your couch, you can now snag some super vibrant and colorful items. We’re talking adorable Mickey and Minnie Mouse plushies, a super cute Loungefly ear headband and matching mini backpack, and even a light-up musical snowglobe featuring Mickey and his pals. Oh, and for the ultimate fan, you can even get the R2-DL70 Interactive Remote Control Droid shipped right to your door!
This is just the beginning, folks, so mark your calendars because the Castle Collection is dropping on DisneyStore.com on June 16th!
Let’s break down these amazing collections a bit more, because there’s so much to get excited about. The Celebration Collection is all about that classic Disney Parks vibe, but with a fun, fresh twist. Think bright colors, new character art, and designs inspired by iconic Disneyland attractions. There’s something for everyone, kids, adults, and us “kidults” who never truly grew up! You’ll be “painting the night” in this collection, with everything from cool apparel to awesome accessories. And get this: they’re launching all-new bubble wands with interchangeable character hats! Each one has a different light and sound effect, making them full of personality, just like Mickey and his friends.
Plus, get ready for some fan-favorite collaborations with Loungefly and Dooney & Bourke. Personally, I’m eyeing those new Dooney & Bourke bag designs, I might just need both of them!
Next up is the Castle Collection, and as the name suggests, it’s fit for royalty. Inspired by the stunning Sleeping Beauty Castle, this collection is packed with beautiful, pixie-dust-filled apparel and accessories. You’ll even find some gorgeous Disneyland Resort 70th Anniversary jewelry by Rebecca Hook. Talk about feeling like Disney royalty!
For all you vintage Disney lovers and Mickey Mouse enthusiasts, the Vault Collection is calling your name! This one is a total throwback, celebrating the early days of Disneyland Park with some seriously nostalgic merchandise. It’s going to be released in chapters, so you’ll have new goodies to look forward to throughout the anniversary celebration.
The first chapter, the Replica Chapter, is all about retro-inspired apparel and accessories. And the second, the Mickey Mouse & Maps Chapter, is dedicated to the wonder and fun of those classic Disneyland park maps. How cool is that?
And finally, to round out this grand reveal, we have the Disneyland Resort 70th Anniversary Walt Disney Nostalgia Collection. This collection is a beautiful tribute to the man who started it all, Walt Disney himself. You’ll find items featuring some of Walt’s most famous Disneyland quotes, all while celebrating the rich heritage of the Resort. Some of the collectibles in this collection are even designed to look like things you might have found on Walt’s very own desk! How’s that for a piece of Disney history?
So, there you have it, folks! The Disneyland 70th Anniversary merch is officially here, and it’s everything we could have hoped for and more. Get those wallets ready, because these must-haves are going to go fast! Happy shopping, and here’s to 70 years of magic!
A Spooktacular Guide to Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort 2025
Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort is a cherished seasonal event that transforms both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure into a vibrant autumn wonderland, complete with spooky charm and festive fun. From August 22 through October 31, 2025, guests can immerse themselves in themed decorations, special entertainment, and unique food and merchandise. Let’s take a look at the highlights coming to the resort!
Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and their friends will dress to impress this Halloween in bright new looks featuring swirling colors of purple, green and orange — a twist on their 70th Celebration outfits! Make sure to wave “hello” and snap a photo.
At Disneyland, the beloved Haunted Mansion Holiday attraction overlay invites you into a world where Halloween’s spooky charm collides with Christmas’s magical glow. It’s a must-see for fans of “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” who want to reunite with Santa Jack, Sally and Zero inside the eerie estate.
Catch “Halloween Screams,” the nighttime spectacular filled with haunting projections and special effects showing creatures of the night and Disney Villains like Hades and Ursula. Are they truly evil — or just misunderstood? On select nights, your experience may be accompanied by fireworks over the skies of Disneyland.
Disney’s Happiest Haunts Guided Tour unearths chilling stories and thrilling experiences in a two-hour walking tour across Disneyland park. The tour includes Lightning Lane access to a select attraction and reserved viewing for “Halloween Screams.”
Radiator Springs will take on its wheelie boo-tiful transformation — Radiator Screams — featuring Halloween overlays like Luigi’s Honkin’ Haul-O-Ween and Mater’s Graveyard JamBOOree. Lightning McQueen and his friends will take part in the fun in their creative car-stumes
Available in the evenings at Avengers Campus, don’t forget to check out Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark. Groot has been left behind in the Collector’s Fortress, which is overrun with monsters. In a thrilling chase, you and your friends must team up with Rocket to distract the beasts and escape the chaos with Groot before they catch you!
Something’s brewing in the Disney Theater for kids and the kids at heart… it’s Mickey Mouse and his pals dressing up to celebrate Halloween in “Mickey’s Trick and Treat”! This interactive show will temporarily replace “Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!” during the fall season, ringing in the spirit of spooky without any real scares. You’ll even get to take home a special treat.
No better season to try something wildly delicious, like the returning Oogie Boogie lemonade and new jalapeño-cream cheese bread. Keep your eyes peeled for new limited-time snacks and returning fan-favorite flavors across the resort.
Get into the Halloween spirit with the Mickey Mouse Family Halloween Collection, perfect for adding an autumnal touch to your visit! Even more collections will be revealed at a later date.
These seasonal items can be found at select locations throughout the resort, including World of Disney in the Downtown Disney District, Elias & Co. at Disney California Adventure park, and Emporium on Main Street, U.S.A., in Disneyland.
Everyone’s a winner in Pluto’s Pumpkin Pursuit! Available from Aug. 29 through Oct. 31, you can purchase an activity map to aid your search for Disney-themed pumpkins hidden in Disneyland park, Disney California Adventure park or Downtown Disney District. Look for them, complete the map and exchange it for a wicked prize.
Discover what décor could be lurking around the corner at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort. Characters will be in their autumn attire, and you can meet them at Goofy’s Kitchen Celebrates Halloween and at Mickey’s Autumn Adventures at Storytellers Cafe.
Overnight guests at the three hotels can enjoy special perks, such as treat trails on select afternoons and the option to purchase a Halloween-themed in-room celebration, which includes festively themed amenities and decorations. Check Disneyland.com/offers to see a list of available discounts to save on a stay.
For the first time, Broken Spell Lounge at the Disneyland Hotel will feature a cocktail menu themed to Disney Villains!
You’ll discover a skeleTON of seasonal delights at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa! Watch pumpkin carvers turn gourds into a masterpiece, feast your eyes on a confectionery display in the lobby and treat yourself to Halloween-inspired treatments at Tenaya Stone Spa.
Watching Pixar Animation Studios’ “Coco” always reminds us to treasure the everlasting bonds of familia. If you also love the warm feelings of tradition and remembrance, you won’t want to miss the return of Plaza de la Familia at Disney California Adventure park, Aug. 22 through Nov. 2, 2025.
This heartfelt celebration at Paradise Gardens Park, inspired by the spirit of Día de los Muertos, will once again feature live entertainment from the “Storytellers of Plaza de la Familia Celebrate the Musical World of Coco!,” delicious Mexican cuisine, artful crafts and a special photo opportunity with a hand-animated dimensional figure of Miguel. You may also continue a tradition of visiting the Mexican Árbol de la Vida (Tree of Life) and adding a note of remembrance to the memory wall.
Releasing in early September, the new Disney Pixar Coco Collection will introduce new apparel, accessories, headwear and more inspired by the film.
Oogie Boogie Bash 2025 Tickets and Details
We are so excited to have the separately ticketed Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party back at Disney California Adventure park on select nights from Aug. 17 through Oct. 31!
During this family-friendly, after-hours event, you can creep through Villains Grove at Redwood Creek Challenge Trail, satisfy your sweet tooth and encounter characters at immersive Treat Trails and enjoy the “Frightfully Fun Parade.” You can also make your parade viewing extra sweet by booking spots for the Oogie Boogie Bash Dessert Party.
Admission to the after-hours event also includes entry to Disney California Adventure park three hours before the party begins and unlimited Disney PhotoPass digital photo downloads from the party.
Mark your calendars! Tickets for Oogie Boogie Bash go on sale to the general public on June 26, 2025, no earlier than 9 a.m. PT. Pre-sale tickets will be available for Magic Key holders no earlier than 9 a.m. PT on Disneyland.com beginning on the below dates:
Inspire Magic Key holders (limited amount of tickets for pre-sale): June 24, 2025
All Magic Key holders (limited amount of tickets for pre-sale): June 25, 2025
If you’re waiting in the online queue to purchase tickets, you can be notified via email when it’s your time to enter the ticket store. Once in the queue, choose the “notify me” option and enter your email address.
Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration Entertainment Continues
The fusion of fall favorites and the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration is truly a sight to behold.
Not only will you get to experience all of these awesome autumn festivities, but you still get to enjoy 70th Celebration entertainment. Anniversary offerings that will continue throughout the Halloween season include the dazzling “Paint the Night” parade, the nighttime spectacular “World of Color Happiness!,” “Tapestry of Happiness” projections and thematic nods on Toy Story Midway Mania!
Areas and attractions around the resort will retain special touches, including decorative accents and the colorful castle photo opportunity in the esplanade. Interactive MagicBand+ locations and the Key to Disneyland lock stations will remain available.
Are you excited for Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort?
Pride Balloons Photo Op Returns to Hollywood Studios, Celebrating Inclusivity
Hollywood Studios is once again embracing Pride Month with the return of a beloved and vibrant photo opportunity, signaling Disney’s continued commitment to welcoming guests from all walks of life. A cute photo-op wall featuring an array of Mickey balloons adorned with various LGBTQ+ flag patterns has been installed just to the left of the former Muppets Courtyard, near Star Tours.
This flat placard, strategically placed on one of the park’s backstage access gates, offers a joyful and colorful backdrop for guests celebrating Pride. The Mickey balloons proudly display the patterns of several different LGBTQ+ flags, including the bisexual flag, the trans flag, the lesbian flag, the asexual flag, genderqueer flag, non-binary flag, and more, creating an inclusive and celebratory atmosphere.
In a year where many companies have opted out of Pride Month celebrations, Disney’s decision to bring back and highlight such an accessible and visible display is a welcome sight for many. It reinforces the message that Disney continues to be a place where diversity is celebrated and all guests feel welcome.
The Disney’s Hollywood Studios installation joins the return of EPCOT’s stunning Pride Month Spaceship Earth mural, further solidifying Disney World’s widespread acknowledgment of Pride Month.
Photo Credit- Mary MPhoto Credit-Mary MPhoto Credit-Mary M
Photo Credit-Mary MPhoto Credit-Mary M
Beyond the photo opportunities, Disney is also offering an incredible range of rainbow-inspired merchandise with their Pride Month Collection. This collection, featuring clothing, accessories, collectibles, and houseware, provides the perfect way for guests to commemorate a magical and inclusive visit to Walt Disney World.
The return of the Pride Balloons Photo Op at Hollywood Studios is more than just a pretty backdrop; it’s a visible affirmation of Disney’s dedication to creating a welcoming environment for everyone, celebrating love, diversity, and acceptance throughout the resort.
Passholder Nights Return to Universal Orlando for 2025 🌙🎢
Calling all fellow UOAPs! Universal Orlando is bringing back one of its most beloved Annual Passholder perks—Passholder Nights—and this year’s celebration promises to be better than ever. Officially announced through Universal’s Annual Passholder social media channels, the exclusive after-hours event will once again be part of Passholder Appreciation Days, running August 15 through September 30, 2025.
If you’re new to the UOAP game, Passholder Nights are free, reservation-only events that offer Annual Passholders exclusive access to Universal Studios Florida or Islands of Adventure after the parks close to regular guests. Reservations are required, so passholders will want to be ready to snag one once they go live on June 26th.
Passholder nights are pure after-dark magic in the parks, with perks including:
Select attractions open with minimal wait times
Exclusive entertainment and character meet-and-greets
Specialty food and drink, like the famous Pizza Fries at Louie’s Italian Restaurant
A free commemorative UOAP magnet (while supplies last)
A Quick Look Back
Passholder Nights made their grand return in 2023, and Universal quickly learned just how much fans missed the experience. That year included a standby line option—which unfortunately led to overcrowding and long waits.
So in 2024, Universal upped the ante with two separate event nights—but removed the standby option entirely, making reservations the only way in. That crowd control move made a big difference in keeping things fun, manageable, and, well… magical.
Expect a similar format in 2025. No standby lines, no chaos—just exclusive after-hours fun for the fans who know the parks best.
Passholder Nights are just one piece of Passholder Appreciation Days, a six-week stretch of exclusive perks running from August 15 to September 30. While full details for 2025’s lineup haven’t been released yet, previous years have included exclusive merch, special menu items, food & beverage discounts, and surprise character sightings.
So while you wait for reservation day, make sure your pass is linked, your email preferences are up to date, and your Universal app is ready to go. You won’t want to miss your chance to claim a spot for one of the best nights of the year.
All Aboard the Disney Adventure! Meet Captain Mickey and Captain Minnie as Disney Cruise Line’s Boldest Ship Prepares to Set Sail 🚢✨
Say ahoy to a brand-new chapter in Disney Cruise Line magic! We’ve got our first official look at the stern characters of the upcoming Disney Adventure, and who better to represent this groundbreaking new ship than two fan-favorite captains: Captain Mickey Mouse and Captain Minnie Mouse! The dynamic duo will be seen proudly perched on the stern, appearing to paint the ship’s gleaming gold logo while seated atop a decorative anchor—standing over 13 feet tall and brimming with nautical charm.
Setting sail from Singapore starting December 15, 2025, the Disney Adventure marks a major milestone as Disney’s first Global-class cruise ship and the eighth in the fleet. At a whopping 208,000 gross tons, this floating wonderland will deliver the most immersive, character-packed cruise experience Disney has ever created—serving up magic on a mega scale.
Seven Themed Areas = Unlimited Wonder
Disney Adventure is a floating fantasyland of seven uniquely themed zones, where stories from Disney, Pixar, and Marvel unfold around every corner:
Imagination Garden: The heart of the ship, with a Cinderella Castle backdrop, high-energy stage shows, and eateries inspired by Moana and The Jungle Book
Disney Discovery Reef: An underwater paradise where Finding Nemo, Luca, and The Little Mermaid meet upscale dining and bioluminescent nighttime magic
Toy Story Place: Water slides, splash zones, and soft-serve ice cream (hello, Wheezy’s Freezies!) for the whole family
Marvel Landing: Three brand-new Marvel-themed attractions, including the first roller coaster ever on a Disney ship, the Ironcycle Test Run!
Wayfinder Bay: A tranquil Moana-inspired pool deck with tiered seating, live shows, and tropical vibes
San Fransokyo Street: A mashup of Big Hero 6 and gamer culture, complete with arcades, Baymax meet-and-greets, and tween/teen hangouts
Town Square: A regal retreat filled with Disney Princess magic, Broadway-style shows, boutique experiences, and adult-only lounges like Spellbound
Not only will the Disney Adventure be a visual stunner, it’s also Disney Cruise Line’s most high-tech ship yet. Expect features like AI-enhanced service, facial and voice recognition for seamless guest experiences, and robot-assisted hospitality throughout the voyage. It’s also Disney’s first methanol-powered ship, leading the charge in sustainable cruising innovation.
With 2,111 passenger cabins ready to host up to 6,000 guests, and a crew of 2,200, this massive marvel is a game-changer for Disney at sea—and with Singapore as its homeport, it’s opening up a whole new region of storytelling magic.
So grab your captain’s hat and prepare to set sail—because the Disney Adventure is about to redefine what it means to cruise with character!
Donald Duck & the Junior Woodchucks Blaze a Trail at Disneyland Paris: New Cabins Debut at Disney Davy Crockett Ranch! 🦆🌲
Get ready to go quackers over the newest additions to Disney Davy Crockett Ranch at Disneyland Paris! Starting September 1, 2025, a brand-new kind of cabin is arriving in the woods—and it’s bursting with charm, character, and just a sprinkle of Junior Woodchuck magic.
These New Standard Cabins and New Standard Cabins – Near Facilities offer a fresh, fully themed experience inspired by Donald, Daisy, and their Junior Woodchuck crew. Each rustic-yet-modern cabin includes two bedrooms (a double in one, and two singles plus a trundle in the other), a cozy single sofa bed in the living area, a full kitchenette, and your own private deck complete with barbecue. There’s even digital key access, making your stay smooth and secure with just a tap on your phone!
What makes these cabins extra special? It’s all in the details:
Delightful Disney touches with cabin wall art and lighting featuring Donald Duck, Huey, Dewey, and Louie in full scouting spirit
A kid-friendly layout that brings the animated wilderness to life, including mural art perfect for bedtime daydreams
Stylish wood-panel interiors paired with updated appliances, comfy furnishings, and playful forest-themed décor
Located just 15 minutes by car from the Disney Parks, Davy Crockett Ranch is the ultimate nature retreat for families looking to unwind after a day of Disney thrills. And with dog-friendly cabins available, your four-legged pals can join the adventure too!
Blue Springs Pool: a heated indoor pool with waterfalls and whirlpools
Mini-golf, arcade games, tennis, and playgrounds
Grab-and-go breakfasts for early risers
Crockett’s Tavern buffet and Crockett’s Saloon bar for hearty eats and rustic vibes
The Alamo Trading Post for groceries and Disney souvenirs
So whether you’re toasting marshmallows or curling up after a splash at the pool, these new cabins offer the perfect blend of wilderness charm and Disney whimsy.
Bookings are open now—so don’t miss your chance to bunk with the Junior Woodchucks on your next Disneyland Paris escape!
Step Into Monstropolis: Monsters Inc. Land Concept Art Arrives at Hollywood Studios
New construction walls have recently appeared around the Muppet Courtyard area of Disney’s Hollywood Studios. But these aren’t just any walls; they’re serving as a canvas for the exciting future of the park! Guests can now get a sneak peek at updated concept art for the highly anticipated Monsters, Inc.-themed land that’s coming to this section of the park.
The updated concept art reveals a more streamlined entrance to the land; the intricate overhead detailing on the iron gates has been removed. Additionally, the theater that once housed Muppet*Vision has been renamed from “The Monstro” to “The Glob”, as indicated by the vertical sign above the marquee.
The new concept art also indicates a change in the fate of the Miss Piggy fountain; it will now be updated rather than replaced entirely, which contrasts with the original artwork’s depiction of a Mike Wazowski fountain. (Hopefully, Miss Piggy and other beloved character elements will find a new home on this revamped fountain!) Additionally, several billboards on the left side of the concept art have been removed, including the one that previously referenced Magic Kingdom’s Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor on a rooftop.
The concept art reveals that the buildings throughout Monstropolis will feature a more vibrant color palette. Notably, Harryhausen’s restaurant, complete with its iconic eyeball sculpture seen in the Monsters, Inc. film, is now visible. It appears to be taking over the current location of Mama Melrose’s, strongly suggesting it will be a new table service restaurant within the land.
The updated plans for the Monsters, Inc. door coaster reveal a notable change to its factory building. It’s now positioned farther back than initially proposed, creating a more expansive courtyard area. This new space will feature prop cars and a covered playground, adding to the immersive environment of the land.
Are you looking forward to the new Monsters Inc. land coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios?
Disney’s Stitch Brings Magic to Central Florida Teachers
Walt Disney World celebrated the end of the school year by bringing some extra special magic to Florida teachers and schools! This included a surprise visit from Stitch, complimentary park tickets for their entire families, and a new $500,000 donation dedicated to funding local education programs.
Stitch recently embarked on a surprise tour across Central Florida, bringing some end-of-year magic to well-deserving teachers. He popped in on educators at Hamilton Elementary, Deerwood Elementary, College Park Middle, Tavares Middle, and North Lakeland Elementary as they were tidying up their classrooms for the summer break. Beyond his playful mischief, Stitch also brought a fantastic gift: free Walt Disney World park tickets for the teachers at each of these schools.
“This means the world,” said Adam Cody, a Deerwood Elementary School teacher. “It’s amazing to get the recognition from our district and Disney. There really are no words to describe how special it makes us feel.”
But the generosity didn’t stop there. Walt Disney World announced a significant $500,000 donation aimed at bolstering local education programs. This substantial contribution will benefit The Foundation for Orange County Public Schools, The School District of Osceola County, Lake County Schools Foundation, Polk County Schools Foundation, and Seminole County Schools Foundation. Additionally, four organizations dedicated to youth development will receive support: Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando Philharmonic, ELEVATE Orlando, and A Gift for Teaching. And as an extra special treat, Disney Imagination Campus extended an exclusive invitation to teachers and administrators from each school district for a unique day of Disney fun, offering them the chance to draw inspiration from EPCOT’s living laboratory to enrich their classrooms.
“We’re thrilled that Disney is making such a considerable donation to our education foundation,” said Fred Heid, Superintendent of Polk County Public Schools. “It’s exciting for me as the superintendent to be able to afford new opportunities for our students.”
Peter Sohn of ‘Elemental’ Set to Direct ‘Incredibles 3’ for Pixar
In a significant directorial shift, Peter Sohn, known for his work on Pixar’s “Elemental” and “The Good Dinosaur,” is officially set to direct “Incredibles 3.” This marks a new chapter for the beloved superhero family franchise, with Sohn taking the reins from Brad Bird, who masterfully wrote and directed the first two critically acclaimed films.
The announcement of “Incredibles 3” was made at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event last year, where it was confirmed that Bird was actively involved in developing the story. While he won’t be directing, Bird will still play a crucial role, penning the screenplay and producing the film alongside Dana Murray.
Bird’s decision to step back from directing “Incredibles 3” stems from his commitment to “Ray Gunn,” a passion project he conceptualized in the ’90s. “Ray Gunn” is currently in pre-production with Skydance Animation, under the leadership of former Pixar chief John Lasseter.
Peter Sohn’s involvement in the “Incredibles” universe is deeply rooted. He has worked on all of Bird’s animated films, including both “Incredibles” installments and the classic “The Iron Giant” (1999), with the exception of this year’s “Ray Gunn.” This long-standing collaboration and shared creative vision made Sohn a natural choice for the esteemed position.
Indeed, Bird himself, along with Pixar’s Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter, personally selected Sohn to direct the new “Incredibles” flick. Bird has been a mentor to Sohn, whose directorial debut was Pixar’s “The Good Dinosaur” (2015). He returned to the directing chair for “Elemental” (2023), a deeply personal story inspired by his childhood, which garnered an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Feature.
Sohn’s journey with Pixar began as a production artist and story artist on “Finding Nemo” (2003), and he has since become an integral part of the studio’s senior creative team. Beyond his directing prowess, Sohn has also lent his distinctive voice to various memorable characters, including Emile in “Ratatouille,” Squishy in “Monsters University,” and Sox in “Lightyear.”
“The Incredibles” first graced the big screen in 2004, followed by its highly anticipated sequel, “Incredibles 2,” in 2018. The original film was a commercial and critical success, winning Best Animated Feature and Best Sound Editing at the Academy Awards, as well as the Annie Award for Best Animated Feature. It also made history as the first entirely animated film to win the Hugo Award for Best Dramatic Presentation, grossing an impressive $632 million worldwide. “Incredibles 2” surpassed its predecessor’s success, grossing a monumental $1.243 billion and, at the time, becoming the fastest animated film to reach the $1 billion mark and Pixar’s highest-grossing film.
While the directorial helm has passed to Peter Sohn, Disney and Pixar have yet to announce any “Incredibles 3” plot details, leaving fans eagerly anticipating what new adventures await the super-powered Parr family.
Disney World & Disneyland Apps Unveil New Dining Reservation Updates
Big news for Disney Parks foodies! Starting today and rolling out over the next few days, both the Disneyland and Walt Disney World websites and mobile apps are getting exciting new tools and features. These updates are designed to make planning your meals and finding those coveted dining reservations for your Disney vacation much easier.
Dining availability calendar: Guests can now easily see an overview of which dates a specific dining location has dining reservations available. Dates with available reservations are indicated with a green dot on the calendar.
Search across multiple dates at ALL dining locations: Our expanded search by date range allows you to view availability for ALL dining locations across multiple dates (up to 10 days), rather than only one location across a date range.
Time range slider: Now there’s a new slider feature that lets you filter dining reservations down to a specific hour so you can see what’s available exactly when you want to eat .
New filters and labels: For guests looking for something specific, our search function will have new features that let you filter by location, meal type(breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner), and for our Walt Disney World guests, by Disney dining plans. It’s also easier to see which dining reservations offer Disney character dining experiences.
What do you think of the updates coming to dining reservations at the Disney parks? Will they be helpful to you when planning your vacation?
